In the series finale, we speak with Jeimy.  Jeimy's son was involved with YALD.  Jeimy talks about what the program has meant for her son and for her.  She talks about witnessing a young man grow in confidence and independence.  She also talks about a mother who had to learn to allow her son to grow in confidence and independence.   Her sons' personal growth though participation encapsulates YALD's essence and purpose. 

For more information, visit YALD.org

Other Podcasts by Aldo B. Martin
Finding James Baldwin: The Magpie Years
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YALD's founder, Carlos, rejoins us for this episode.  He tells us about some of the obstacles that YALD has faced in the recent past.  Carlos talks to us about aspirations to take YALD beyond the field, but then was met with roadblocks.  Regardless of the setbacks, he and the program continue for forge their way to create an impact.  It should be noted that Carlos became discouraged by the setbacks, but then was quickly reminded by those around him that the program is having an impact on his community, thus prompting him to get back on track and move forward.  Carlos talks to us about the neighborhood organizations that have supported YALD through out the years.  It's onward and upward for YALD. 

For more information, visit YALD.org

Other Podcasts by Aldo B. Martin
Finding James Baldwin: The Magpie Years
The Reclamation
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In this episode, we speak with Kelvin Valentin aka Chewy.  Chewy wears many hats with the program.  He is the head referee and so much more.  He sits down with us and offers his thoughts on the podcast and on the people that have spoken thus far.  He even turns the tables and asks the host a few questions. 

For more information, visit YALD.org

Other Podcasts by Aldo B. Martin
Finding James Baldwin: The Magpie Years
The Reclamation
The Fatherhood Project
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In this episode, we speak with Eduardo.  Eduardo is a former participant and joined the program when he was about 15 years old as a high school student.  He is currently a sophomore at Boston College.  Although he has aged out of the program, he still remembers the program with fondness.  He talks to us about the personal growth that he's experienced while being a member of the program.  He tells us about some of his favorite memories and what the program means to him.

For more information, visit YALD.org

Other Podcasts by Aldo B. Martin
Finding James Baldwin: The Magpie Years
The Reclamation
The Fatherhood Project
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In our third and final segment of our conversation with Fernando, he tells us what makes YALD such a unique program.   He talks to us about coaching one of the first females to participate in the program.   Coach Adalberto stopped by and gave us some of this thoughts and recollections.   He and Fernando discuss some of the moments of the 2019 championship game.   The nature of the conversation encapsulates the spirit of the program. 

For more information, visit YALD.org

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Finding James Baldwin: The Magpie Years
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In the second part of our conversation with Fernando, Carlos tells us the story of a time when he's had to make a tough decision regarding one of the program's participants.  As it turns out, the story is essential to understanding YALD's culture and expectations for its participants.  Fernando echoes the sentiment and describes the programs values in his own words.  

For more information, visit YALD.org

Other Podcasts by Aldo B. Martin
Finding James Baldwin: The Magpie Years
The Reclamation
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Today we speak with Fernando Portilla.  He also goes by the name Coach Fern.  He's been affiliated with YALD for the past several years.  He talks to us about how he joined the program and why.    Carlos tells us a  little bit about the process of selecting a new coach into the program, and how Fernando fit the mold.  Fernando tells us about his passion for coaching youth sports and how the environment that YALD had already established made it a very easy transition for him. 

For more information, visit YALD.org

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Finding James Baldwin: The Magpie Years
The Reclamation
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In our second and final installment with Coach Jay,  he tells us more about the relationship that he's developed with the kids in the program.  Carlos, who joined us for this conversation,  tells us about some breakthrough moments that he and Coach Jay had with one of the kids in particular.  Coach Jay and Carlos tell us how YALD isn't just about playing flag football, but it is an opportunity to serve. 

Some of the subject matter in this particular episode deals with suicidal ideation.  If you or anyone you know needs support in this area please contact The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or call 988

For more information, visit YALD.org

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Today we speak with Jason Cedeno, also known as Coach Jay.  He's been affiliated with YALD since the beginning.  He talks to us about his impression of the program when first joined.  According to Jason, he thought that the program was going to be "one and done."  However, up witnessing the dedication of those around him and experiencing an unexpected level of fun, Jason has been a staple with the program ever since.   

For more information, visit YALD.org

Other Podcasts by Aldo B. Martin
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The Reclamation
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Today we speak with Rafael and Joseph otherwise known as Ralph and Flash.  Both of these young men were  part of YALD when they were younger.   They speak to us about their experiences on the field and some of their favorite memories.  They explain the different lessons that they've learned over the years and how this has translated into their current lives.  They also talk to us about the "Turkey Bowl" and how that has an effect on the program today. 

For more information, visit YALD.org

Other Podcasts by Aldo B. Martin
Finding James Baldwin: The Magpie Years
The Reclamation
The Fatherhood Project
Jammin' on the One