In this compelling episode of 'Count Time,' join us as we dive deep with 2 Guests into powerful discussions on overcoming past mistakes, societal reintegration, and breaking free from the chains of adversity. From personal stories of hardship to dissecting the impact of socio-economic systems on crime and poverty, we uncover the complex layers of resilience and transformation. We also explore the profound effects of childhood experiences and the systemic obstacles faced by marginalized communities.

00:00 Introduction and Purpose of Count Time

01:23 Challenges of Staying Out of Trouble

01:46 The Impact of Choices and Society's Perception

06:17 The American Dream and Strain Theory

14:31 Systematic Oppression and Mass Incarceration

21:03 Generational Dysfunction and Survival

30:02 The Power of Personal Stories

31:09 Statistics and Realities of Youth

32:28 Overcoming Adversity and Leadership

33:25 The Dark Path and Redemption

36:55 Challenges of Parenting and Environment

43:57 The Need for Community and Support

53:25 Creating a Shared Language and Purpose

In this episode of Count Time Now, Fred Ward reconnects with his childhood friend, to navigate through their transformative journeys from their challenging beginnings in Cleveland's tough neighborhoods to their impactful roles today. They delve into their personal histories, discussing the struggles of growing up in difficult environments, their involvement in the streets, and the pivotal moments that inspired them to change their lives. The conversation also highlights the significant impact of the KMU Foundation and their collective efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic to support the community. Tune in for an honest and heartfelt discussion about resilience, redemption, and the power of community advocacy.

00:00 Welcome Back to Count Time

00:33 Interview with Childhood Friend Prophecy

00:51 Reflecting on the Past

01:24 Growing Up in the Struggle

01:49 Community and Activism

02:35 Early Hustles and Street Life

07:28 Historical Context and Family Legacy

13:37 Reconnecting After Prison

18:21 Navigating Business and Politics

21:53 The Power of Voting and Community Support

25:30 Embracing Change and Growth

25:46 Career Journey and Community Impact

26:16 Pandemic Response and Collaboration

31:14 Personal Transformations and Reflections

45:31 Challenges Facing Today's Youth

51:46 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

In this inspiring episode of Count Time Now, host Fred Ward sits down with two remarkable young men, Marquez and Brandon (aka 'Streets'), to discuss their transformative journeys. Fresh out of incarceration, both brothers share powerful stories of redemption, community leadership, and the importance of voting and civic engagement. They shed light on building new relationships with local leaders, planning community events, and their shared vision for 2026. Tune in for a raw, unfiltered conversation about overcoming adversity, embracing leadership, and making meaningful change in their neighborhoods. Don’t miss the powerful analogies, heartfelt moments, and future plans that will get you thinking about what’s truly possible when community members unite for positive change.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:59 Meeting Streets and His Story

07:52 Brandon's Journey and Reflections

12:44 Community Engagement and Voting

15:55 First Council Meeting Experience

21:33 Connecting with Councilwoman Gray

23:05 Big Griff and Community Outreach

23:17 Collaborations with Case Western Reserve

24:32 Rebuilding the Community

26:58 Public Safety vs. Public Health

30:39 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Juvenile Experiences

33:08 The Importance of Consistency and Community Programs

40:31 Imagining a Better Future

44:30 Concluding Thoughts and Call to Action

Join Fred Ward and a group of resilient brothers for a deep, raw, and unfiltered episode of Count Time Now. From encounters with systemic injustices to navigating life after wrongful convictions, these men lay it all out. They dive into the life-changing power of voting, the haunting effects of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and the importance of credible messengers in communities. Experience their stories and learn how they channel past traumas into powerful transformations. This is more than just a podcast—it's a movement towards understanding and rebuilding lives.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions

02:19 Discussing Felony Convictions and Voting

06:10 The Importance of Voting and Community Involvement

08:37 Personal Stories and Reflections on Incarceration

11:23 Challenges Faced by Formerly Incarcerated Individuals

16:02 Youth and Early Experiences with Crime

22:51 Navigating the Justice System

25:19 The Impact of Childhood Trauma

25:51 Survival Mode and Its Consequences

30:31 Triggers and Coping Mechanisms

32:35 Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)

34:03 Reflecting on Past Trauma

39:47 The Importance of Safe Spaces for Healing

43:28 Empowerment and Building Power

45:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this riveting episode of Count Time, Fred Ward engages in a profound conversation with his longtime colleague Donovan. The discussion spans their shared experiences of incarceration, the transformative journey post-release, and the unique challenges faced by those with criminal records. They highlight the importance of voting, its strategic value for formerly incarcerated individuals, and debunk myths surrounding civic engagement. With personal anecdotes, including the harrowing tale of Fred's near-fatal accident shortly after his release, this episode emphasizes the essence of resilience and the power of collective action. Tune in for an insightful dialogue that urges reflection, understanding, and mobilization in the face of systemic barriers.

00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement

00:44 Shared History and Reflections

02:15 Dedication and Audience Focus

03:35 Understanding 'Count Time'

07:00 Planning for Freedom

10:30 Challenges After Release

17:44 Discipline and Personal Growth

26:46 Collective Consciousness and Discipline

28:49 Guardian Angels and Support Systems

29:32 A Loyal Friend's Exhausting Night

30:26 A Near-Fatal Drive Home

32:04 Reflecting on Life's Close Calls

33:19 The Reality of Post-Prison Life

34:34 Sacrifices and Family

38:53 The Importance of Voting

41:57 Organizing for Change

46:17 The Power of Collective Action

50:21 Overcoming Misconceptions

01:04:59 The Struggle for Post-Prison Rights

In this episode of Count Time Now, host Fred Ward engages in a compelling discussion with Frank Jackson, the longest-serving mayor in Cleveland's history. The conversation delves into the '3% rule,' the impact of cynical voters, and how to transform skepticism into political action. They explore recent research involving Ohio's ex-felon voters and discuss strategies for creating political spaces that foster genuine learning and collective action. Alongside reflections on systemic challenges and the power of community, Jackson and Ward examine how to harness the disillusionment of cynical voters for lasting change.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:42 The 3% Rule and Voter Impact

01:14 Research on Cynical Voters

02:52 Challenges Faced by Ex-Felons

06:24 The Beast of the System

12:12 Creating a New Community

13:16 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Join Fred Ward in this engaging episode as he sits down with Frank Jackson, Cleveland's longest-standing mayor, to discuss power, politics, and community impact. Frank Jackson shares his journey from local advocacy to becoming a central figure in Cleveland's political scene. The conversation delves into the essence of political power, the structures of local government, and the indispensable role of community connections. They also explore the dynamics of systemic change and the importance of mobilizing at least 3% of the population to create significant societal shifts. Tune in to hear thought-provoking insights on how power can be leveraged for the greater good, and what it truly means to serve a community.

00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement

01:03 Discussing Power and Neighborhoods

01:29 Insights on Cynical Voters Research

01:54 Life After Retirement

03:09 Journey into Politics

03:51 Early Political Career and Advocacy

04:22 Running for Council and Initial Challenges

08:38 Council Dynamics and Leadership

12:45 The Power of Politics

13:18 Politics as a Vehicle for Change

14:02 The Importance of Trust and Loyalty

15:11 Educating on Reentry and Criminal Justice Reform

15:47 The Power of Nonviolent Movements

17:09 Impact of Felony Convictions

17:45 Strategies for Mobilizing Impacted Communities

19:39 Historical Context and the Underground Railroad

20:42 Understanding Power and Its Uses

24:16 Political Power and the Streets

28:22 The Nature of Power and Its Acquisition

In this episode of Count Time Now, Fred Ward is joined by Pete VanLeer from Policy Matters and his long-time friend Russell Williams, an outstanding chef and directly impacted individual who continues to face collateral consequences. The discussion dives deep into Russell's disturbing experience of being fired due to a decades-old conviction and highlights the broader systemic injustice faced by individuals with criminal records. Pete shares insights from recent surveys on employment barriers and discusses potential policy changes, while Russell shares his heartfelt story in hopes of driving awareness and change.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
02:19 Russell's Story: Employment Struggles
02:43 The Incident at Giant Eagle
05:23 Background Check Issues
07:41 Ethics Committee and Judicial Release
10:43 Policy Matters Survey
11:19 Struggles of Finding Stable Employment
12:03 Challenges Faced by the Formerly Incarcerated
12:55 Systemic Issues and Personal Stories
16:40 The Role of Surveys and Data
20:27 Call to Action and Final Thoughts