Episodes

  • Passing SB-1391

    Passing SB-1391
    Nov 25 2024

    In this episode, our host Kalista Lin sits down with Michael Mendoza. At just 15 years old, Michael was sentenced to 15-to-life for his involvement in a gang-related murder.

    Since his parole in 2014, Michael has dedicated his life to transforming the justice system that once confined him. From advocating for SB 261 and AB 1308 to expanding Youth Offender Parole, to leading the charge for Yes on 17, restoring voting rights to over 50,000 Californians on parole, Michael’s impact is undeniable, helping pass SB 1391 and making California the first state to prohibit transferring 14- and 15-year-olds to adult court.

    Appointed by President Biden to the Coordinating Council on Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, Michael continues to champion second chances as a consultant on reentry and criminal justice reform. Join us as we explore his journey from incarceration to becoming one of the most influential voices in juvenile justice today.
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    27 mins
  • Graham v. Florida

    Graham v. Florida
    Oct 27 2024

    In this episode, Kalista and Sofia speak with Terrence Graham, the man behind the landmark Supreme Court ruling Graham v. Florida, which declared sentencing juveniles to life without parole for non-homicide crimes unconstitutional. At just 16 years old, Terrence was sentenced to life in prison for armed burglary and attempted robbery. After serving 20 years, he was finally released on February 14, 2024. Terrence shares his journey from being incarcerated as a teenager to adjusting to life as a free man. He opens up about the struggles of transitioning from childhood to adulthood behind bars, the harsh realities of house arrest and probation, and how he’s currently navigating post-incarceration society. Tune in to hear Terrence's story of resilience and redemption!
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    33 mins
  • Against All Odds

    Against All Odds
    Sep 21 2024

    We're back with another episode! In this interview, hosts Kalista Lin and Sofia Ng speaks with Jose Norrington, a native of Los Angeles who spent fifteen years in prison for convicted manslaughter and two attempted murders. Released in 2021, thanks to California's SB261, Jose shares his journey from gang life to his role as Development Coordinator at the Anti-Recidivism Coalition (ARC). Tune in to hear his inspiring story of redemption and a second chance!
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    31 mins
  • Moment of Realization

    Moment of Realization
    Jun 25 2024
    In this episode, featured guest speaker Danzell Nunsuch shares his incredible story of transformation. At 17, Danzell was sentenced to 16-to-life, but within the confines of prison, he was able to pursue a B.A. in Business Management joined Toastmasters International, and mentored fellow inmates. He is the co-founder of Be Slim Bariatrics, won the SBDC Inclusivity Project Pitch Deck Competition, and now supports incarcerated individuals through the Anti-Recidivism Coalition's Hope & Redemption Team. Tune in to hear about Danzell's journey of transformation, perseverance, and second chances.
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    28 mins
  • Spiritual Strength

    Spiritual Strength
    Jun 13 2024
    In this episode, we dive into the extraordinary life of Dominec Holmes. Raised in the turbulent streets of Southwest Detroit, Dominec's childhood was marked by tragedy, resilience, and a profound spiritual awakening. After the traumatic loss of his father and navigating a chaotic household, Dominec’s early life was a battle for survival, often facing the harsh realities of street life and systemic challenges. Despite his tumultuous upbringing, Dominec excelled academically, showcasing his intellectual prowess. However, his life took a dramatic turn when he was incarcerated for murder at just 16. His time in prison was not just about survival but also a period of intense spiritual growth. *WARNING: Mature Language*
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    34 mins
  • Resilience Reborn

    Resilience Reborn
    May 19 2024
    In this latest episode, join us as we dive into this interview of Tyson Nguyen, a Sacramento native whose life took an extraordinary turn after spending over a decade behind bars. From incarceration to inspiration, Tyson's work with the Anti-Recidivism Coalition and California Justice Leaders is of resilience, redemption and relentless pursuit of positive change. Hosted by Kalista Lin, this episode will explore Tyson's journey from confinement to empowerment, and reveal the profound impact he is making in his community and beyond.
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    36 mins
  • An Inspiration To Us All

    An Inspiration To Us All
    Apr 13 2024
    In this episode, we had the opportunity to speak with Colie Levar Long, whose life took a transformative turn during his over 26 years of incarceration. Long, now an author, speaker, and staunch advocate for criminal justice reform, shares his journey from the depths of the prison system. He has also become a Program Associate for Georgetown’s Prison and Justice Initiative, and is a part of many initiatives dedicated to restorative justice. Join us as we dive into Long's inspiring journey of redemption, resilience, and advocacy, as he continues to serve as a catalyst for positive change in both the system and society at large.
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    30 mins
  • A Second Chance x The Viking Voice

    A Second Chance x The Viking Voice
    Feb 9 2024
    In this special collaboration episode, A Second Chance Podcast is joined by The Viking Voice Student Podcast from North Shore High School. In this exclusive interview, the host of The Viking View Student Podcast team speaks with founder and co-host of our podcast Kalista Lin as listeners are treated to an exclusive behind-the-scenes peek to Kalista's personal narrative and the events that sparked the creation of this transformative platform. From her every day hobbies to the inception of our podcast, Kalista shares candid reflections, offering listeners a poignant reminds of the transformative potential inherent in every story. Join us as we explore the creative process and the passion driving A Second Chance: Stories of Young Offenders Podcast forward.
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    11 mins