Prosperity after Prison, the Next Chapter: Recent Episodes
Kyle Hannah
This podcast will feature a special interview with ex-offenders and parolees discussing the next chapter of their lives.
What may seem like your greatest pain today can turn into your greatest strength. All you have to do is to have faith, and shift your mindset and believe that it’s possible to become the best version of yourself. In this episode of the Prosperity after Prison Podcast, we speak with Gethin Jones, a formerly incarcerated individual who transformed his life by developing a high level of self-awareness and emotional intelligence. Gethin grew up in a dysfunctional family where he was emotionally and physically abused and was often moved in between foster care and living with his biological mother. He was taken away from his family at a young age, which led to a pattern of self-destruction and a 20-year relationship with the criminal justice system. It was in 2006, at the age of 34, that he decided to change, believe in himself, and completely transform both his personal and professional life. Listen in to learn how you can learn to stay in the moment and develop the best version of yourself after incarceration. You will also learn the importance of having a trustworthy support network that helps support and nurture you in your life after incarceration. In this episode you will hear: ● [1:22] Gethin shares his rough childhood story and how it contributed to leading a criminal life at a young age. ● [10:20] How he was inspired by prison officers to change his life and start sharing stories of the impact of prison officers on prisoners. ● [14:12] The information and advice he was offered to believe in a different and better life after prison. ● [16:49] How he built a life after prison by learning to live in the moment and being the best version of himself. ● [21:40] Gethin explains how he escaped the victim mentality and developed a powerful mindset. ● [25:05] The importance of having a supportive community to support and nurture you after incarceration. Notable Quotes: ● “Change is possible but no one is going to give it to you, you’re going to have to go out there and get it, and other people will support you in that journey.”- Gethin Jones [23:05] ● “The reason I went back to prison was because I never had a support network, I always believed that I could do this on my own and I didn’t need anyone else.”- Gethin Jones [25:09] ● “Our greatest pain can end up becoming our greatest strength.”- Gethin Jones [29:39] Resources Mentioned: ● Website: https://www.unlockingthepotential.co.uk/ ● LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gethin-jones-unlocking-potential-99a02510a/ ● Twitter: https://twitter.com/GethinUnlocks ● Books: Unconscious Incarceration How to F**k Up and still succeed Be inspired and be bold, this is the Prosperity after Prison podcast. UNDERGUARD TELESERVICES Website: https://my.captivate.fm/ugteleservices.com (ugteleservices.com) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ugteleservices/ (@ugteleservices) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/underguard-teleservices (Underguard Teleservices) CONNECT WITH KYLE: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylehannah (Kyle Hannah)
Do you believe that you can still bring value to yourself and others even after incarceration? It’s never too late to do good-- how you view yourself is very important in transforming your life for the better. In this episode of the Prosperity After Prison Podcast, we have Stanley Andrisse, an endocrinologist scientist and faculty at Howard University College of Medicine and Georgetown Medical Center. Stanley is the youngest of five and comes from a religious Haitian immigrant family. He shares his journey growing up and how he was profiled as a troublemaker throughout his childhood. At an early age Stanley was sentenced to 10 years in prison. He found a mentor while incarcerated, which inspired him to develop value for himself and work towards transforming his life for the better. Listen in to learn the importance of believing in your value even at your worst to rise beyond your circumstances. You will also learn why you should never give up or stop treating yourself and others with positive actions. In this episode you will learn: ● [1:21] Stanley shares his background story growing up as a Haitian immigrant, religious, and different from his peers. ● [4:42] Life in Haiti and how different it is for immigrants when they move to the US. ● [8:16] Being profiled and branded as a troublemaker and a criminal and how that impacted him. ● [14:35] How being incarcerated in his early 20s motivated him to transform his life. ● [17:52] Stanley’s incarceration experience, finding a mentor, and discovering an unexpected calling in life. ● [26:25] Why the justice system needs to understand that people can change for the better. ● [30:39] How he found success in his life after incarceration and started a nonprofit that helps other formerly incarcerated individuals. ● [35:32] How to connect with Stanley’s organization as a formerly incarcerated individual. ● [37:45] Learn that it’s never too late to do good and to bring value to yourself. Standout Quotes: ● “Once you believe in yourself, then the world becomes doable.”- [35:24] ● “It’s never too late to do good, you can still bring value to yourself and to others.”- Stanley [3818] Resources Mentioned: ● Website: https://www.fromprisoncellstophd.org/ Be inspired and be bold, this is the Prosperity after Prison podcast. UNDERGUARD TELESERVICES Website: https://my.captivate.fm/ugteleservices.com (ugteleservices.com) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ugteleservices/ (@ugteleservices) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/underguard-teleservices (Underguard Teleservices) CONNECT WITH KYLE: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylehannah (Kyle Hannah)
Progress, Purpose, & Prayer with Mel Burgess How can you avoid becoming a statistic after incarceration? How do you go about succeeding in life and business when you come out with nothing but the clothes on your back? Finding (or creating) your family and building a resilient character on the bedrock of health and wellness are among the must-dos you need in order to discover your purpose beyond those prison walls. In this episode of the Prosperity after Prison Podcast, we have Mel Burgess, a successful fitness entrepreneur who was incarcerated for 11 years at the age of 17 in the late 1990s. He is the CEO of Pangaea Wellness & Development, which offers a myriad of programs that promote holistic fitness. After being released from prison in 2008, Mel started New U Fitness before establishing Pangaea two years later. Today, alongside his general clientele, Mel has been putting much of his focus on corporate wellness and genetics programs. Listen in to learn how to develop the mindset of an over-comer and achieve true happiness through progress, purpose, and prayer. You will also learn the importance of shedding victim mentality and in its place develop a solution-oriented approach to life built on a foundation of physical and mental health. In this episode you will learn: [1:28] Mel shares the moment his life was forever changed at the age of 17. [2:44] Why Mel says, “I want to inspire, to show people that they can overcome hardship. [3:57] Mel’s state of mind when he was sentenced to 11 years in prison at 17. [5:40] Mel’s 3 Ps. [6:53] Faith as a foundation of growth. [9:02] Owning up to your mistakes. [12:14] How time in prison changed Mel as a man. [18:04] What Mel would tell his 17-year-old self today. [20:12] How to not become a “statistic” out of prison. [23:56] The importance of mental toughness. [26:57] What to do when you come out of prison with nothing but the clothes on your back. [29:32] Mel’s vision as a fitness business owner. [35:50] Promoting physical and mental health in prison. [38:25] Mel breaks down a couple of his most provocative sayings
Standout Quotes: “How you overcome hardships dictates character to me. No matter whether you go to Harvard or to prison, what you perceive and do after that is more important.”- Mel [2:45] “Prison’s like heat. It’s going to melt you, it’s going to burn you, or it’s going to make you like steel. The more heat that gets put on you is going to test where you’re at. It’s going to test your character; it’s going to test your manhood; it’s going to test your faith.”- Mel [17:37] “If you don’t have family, you’ve got to create your family.”- Mel [24:01] “If you overcome the things that are holding you back in prison, then you’re better prepared when you leave prison. If not, then you’re going to become a victim, and you’ll have a victim mentality. That’s the number one killer of any dream..”- Mel [37:43]
Resources Mentioned: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mel-burgess-438b25a7 Be inspired and be bold, this is the Prosperity after Prison podcast. UNDERGUARD TELESERVICES Website: https://my.captivate.fm/ugteleservices.com (ugteleservices.com) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ugteleservices/ (@ugteleservices) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/underguard-teleservices (Underguard Teleservices) CONNECT WITH KYLE: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylehannah (Kyle Hannah)
With special guest: Yusef Wiley How are you preparing for your life after incarceration? Are you bettering yourself with the education and discipline that you’ll need in the outside world? Transforming your life with tech education, having the right support, and developing good character are some of the ways you can prepare yourself for a successful life after incarceration. In this episode of the Prosperity after Prison Podcast, we have Yusef Andre Wiley from Los Angeles as he shares his life transformation after prison. Yusef is a founder& CEO at Timelist Group, keynote speaker, and transformational Speaker with a passion for sharing his experience and solutions for empowering formerly incarcerated persons. Yusef was born and raised in South Central Los Angeles to Christian parents and grew up in the church, but bad choices led him to join the gang community and be incarcerated as a very young man. After serving 22 years in prison, he came out as a transformed citizen ready to make an impact on formerly incarcerated communities. Listen in to learn the importance of having a mentor and a support group for support and guidance after getting out of prison. You will also learn the importance of tech education after incarceration to help you get by and how not to be intimidated with life after. In this episode you will learn: [1:11] Yusef shares his background story and how he got attracted to the gang lifestyle as a young man. [4:51] Getting incarcerated for 22 years and learning to take responsibility for his poor choices. [7:27] How prison life allowed him to reflect on his life and focus on bettering himself through education. [10:41] How his education became a blessing for himself and other prisoners. [13:18] The fear of technology he experienced right after getting out of prison and how he overcame it. [15:14] How his father inspired him to transform for the better and to work hard to get out of prison. [17:44] Living the double life of an open church choir member and a hidden gang member. [20:41] He explains how writing his plan for after prison enabled him to get the right support and start a nonprofit organization that’s now thriving. [23:24] Take your time to build up momentum and learn tech before going full throttle after incarceration. [25:27] The importance of mentorship and support networks for survival and thriving after incarceration. [28:28] How being disciplined and having good character can help you win opportunities even with your criminal history or background.
Standout Quotes: “You need time to build up that momentum to get reactivated right into the society.”- Yusef [23:42] “Support networks are key for survival and thriving after prison.”- Yusef [27:22] “The character, the discipline, and the personality can win you a lot despite your criminal history or background.”- Yusef [28:54]
Resources Mentioned: LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/yusefandrewiley/ ( https://www.linkedin.com/in/yusefandrewiley/)
Be inspired and be bold, this is the Prosperity after Prison podcast. UNDERGUARD TELESERVICES Website: https://my.captivate.fm/ugteleservices.com (ugteleservices.com) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ugteleservices/ (@ugteleservices) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/underguard-teleservices (Underguard Teleservices) CONNECT WITH KYLE: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylehannah (Kyle Hannah)
Are you ready to transform your life and be empowered after incarceration? Did you know you’re more likely to become successful in your life after prison if you hear other success stories and have a mentor? With the right support and mentorship, you can become the change you desire and who God called you to be. In this episode of the Prosperity after Prison Podcast, we have Reverend Jonathan Queen from Maryland as he shares his story of redemption and salvation. Jonathan came from a broken home, which forced him into the life of drug dealing at a very early age. After spending most of his younger years incarcerated, he joined the ADEP Program, which completely changed his mindset and led to an early release from prison. Jonathan explains his commitment to helping formerly incarcerated people in his community change their life and become dependable members of society. Together with his wife, they started the New Mindz Ministries, a non-profit organization that provides education, mentoring, life skills training, and resources for at-risk youth/adults and returning citizens. Listen in to learn the importance of being prepared and having a mentor to support you in becoming reflective of the person you’ve become after incarceration. In this episode you will learn: [2:02] Jonathan describes his childhood experiences from a broken home, becoming a drug dealer, and the beginning of his downfall. [4:44] How he became incarcerated for 10 years at only 23 and the anger he harbored blaming everyone else except himself. [9:27] How learning opportunities during his time at the federal prison transformed his life for the better. [13:16] He talks about his Christianity questioning phase and choosing Islam during one of his incarceration stages. [16:19] The ADEP Program – how it shifted his mindset and prepared him for a different future after prison. [21:15] The programs that Jonathan and his wife run to help reintegrate returning citizens into the community. [25:03] The First Baptist Church of Glenarden – where to find them plus how Jonathan discovered his gift of speaking. [28:15] Top tips on how to transform your life after prison and be committed to becoming the better version of yourself. [33:04] The work that needs to be done to improve the justice system in America and what we can do as a community. [40:01] Start by becoming the change you desire to be and who God says you are.
Standout Quotes: “Just because someone made poor choices that ended with them losing their freedom for a certain amount of time doesn’t mean that they lose value as a human being.”- Jonathan [11:42] “The best way for someone to come home and be successful is to hear someone who’s come home and become successful.”- Jonathan [24:32] “I chose to live in a way that was truly reflective of who I had become.”- Jonathan [30:48]
Resources Mentioned: Website:https://www.newmindz.org/ ( https://www.newmindz.org/) Books: Are You S.A.N.E. by Jonathan Queen & Don't Blame Me by Jonathan Queen
Be inspired and be bold, this is the Prosperity after Prison podcast. UNDERGUARD TELESERVICES Website: https://my.captivate.fm/ugteleservices.com (ugteleservices.com) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ugteleservices/ (@ugteleservices) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/underguard-teleservices (Underguard Teleservices) CONNECT WITH KYLE: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylehannah (Kyle Hannah)
In this episode of the Prosperity after Prison Podcast, we are joined by Daniel Manville. Daniel is a lawyer who has represented an undeniable range of cases, with a impactful mindset to improve conditions in the prison system through litigation against unfair treatment and unjust actions taking place in the prison system. Daniel shares his journey from the troubling past events that ultimately landed him in prison in the 1970s, to transforming into the passionate lawyer that he is today. While In prison, he earned two college degrees and buried himself in as many law books that he could get his hands on, leading him to be the first person to take a major test specifically for law school while still incarcerated. Daniel's path into the the criminal justice system has empowered him with a unique perspective on how he approaches cases, and the ability to notice many ways prison systems can improve conditions. Daniel and Kyle discuss the importance of programs like Undergaurd Teleservices offer, and the positive impact that is introduced to the life of someone currently incarcerated or recently released. During this episode, you will learn about: [00:33] How Daniel received his first cases as an attorney. [03:36] Daniel’s backstory and how he was incarcerated. [20:17] Medical care in the 70s and Daniel's experience. [26:09] A judge's remark and how it later changed Daniel's life. [29:27] Daniel’s experience during the first 30 days after being released from prison. [32:03] How Daniel overcame the prison mentality of not being good enough. [37:27] Prisoner's rights, prison litigation and what Daniel excels at in this space. [43:44] The importance of the rehabilitation programs of working with inmates. Notable Quotes • “Going to prison can change your life or waste your life.” • “Putting yourself out there and being honest with people will help you.” • “There will always be bad people out there but you have to keep moving.” Be inspired and be bold, this is the Prosperity after Prison podcast. UNDERGUARD TELESERVICES Website: https://my.captivate.fm/ugteleservices.com (ugteleservices.com) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ugteleservices/ (@ugteleservices) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/underguard-teleservices (Underguard Teleservices) CONNECT WITH KYLE: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylehannah (Kyle Hannah)
From Pain & Pills to Finding God's Purpose with Molly Beasley The United States has the highest incarceration rate in the world. The prison system is often a place of deep trauma, both for those who are incarcerated and their families. Prisoners are often released into a different world than the one they knew before. Many of them have lost their jobs, homes, and families. They may also have mental health problems or addiction, making it difficult to find work. The post-prison experience can be challenging for many former prisoners, so it’s important for them to be aware of the challenges they may face and how they can prosper. But what is prosperity after prison? How do you rebuild your life after being released from prison? What are some coping mechanisms for post-prison trauma? Molly Beasley will help us answer these questions and more in this episode. Tune in! During this episode, you will learn about; [01:00] What’s in for you in today’s episode [02:06] Molly’s childhood backstory and when things started going haywire [03:44] Losing a father and a grandmother was very traumatizing [07:08] What kept her from taking suicide [07:48] Her experiences in the sixty years sentence [09:11] How Molly would still access contrabands while still incarcerated [10:56] The common drugs she used and how she started on them [15:21] Molly’s message of hope and encouragement for drug and crime addicts [18:28] Molly’s resilience and commitment inspires you [19:39] Sober and a telecommunication student now [23:40] There are opportunities outside your comfort zone [27:17] Episode wrap up and calls to action Notable Quotes “Most drug dealers are incarcerated, and that makes it easy for one to access drugs while in prison.” “Drug addiction destroys everything on its path.” “If someone else is doing it, you can also do it.” “It is okay to admit your struggles.” “Opportunities knock on the doors of those who are already outside their comfort zones.”
Be inspired and be bold, this is the Prosperity after Prison podcast. UNDERGUARD TELESERVICES Website: https://my.captivate.fm/ugteleservices.com (ugteleservices.com) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ugteleservices/ (@ugteleservices) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/underguard-teleservices (Underguard Teleservices) CONNECT WITH KYLE: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylehannah (Kyle Hannah) Please subscribe to the podcast and drop us a five-star review. We appreciate you, and your support enables us to keep bringing you the goods on the show!
Greg Labeet joins us on Episode 13 to share his story and how he spent most of his younger years living in poverty, leading him to ultimately commit crimes just to make ends meet for himself and to help provide for five other siblings. In the initial stages of his incarceration, as a young teenager, he found himself overwhelmed with all the new experiences. Greg had to quickly adjust his mind-state from being out in the real world to now being tucked away from society. Greg found himself going to the library and absorbed everything from engineering magazines to self-help books. He made it his focus to continue learning and finding creative (legal) ways to make and save money while incarcerated. Leading up to his release, Greg filled out as many job applications as he could and eventually found himself not only landing different jobs, but had the opportunity to work additional overtime hours to continue building his savings. Eventually Greg was able to save enough money to purchase a house right on the lake, and is currently building a second home. He's started his own business, and already on his way to creating a second one. Greg also wrote and published a book titled, "End of Recidivism" which he's working hard to have distributed to prisons everywhere so that anyone incarcerated would have access. The book is written as if the words themselves are a mentor, inspiring readers to make the right decisions in life and create opportunities to build a better future. Greg is a walking testimony of not only overcoming his tough start in life, but also of creating opportunities for others to do the same. Be inspired and be bold, this is the Prosperity after Prison podcast. UNDERGUARD TELESERVICES Website: https://my.captivate.fm/ugteleservices.com (ugteleservices.com) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ugteleservices/ (@ugteleservices) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/underguard-teleservices (Underguard Teleservices) CONNECT WITH KYLE: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylehannah (Kyle Hannah)
In episode 12 of the Prosperity after Prison Podcast, we welcome our guest LaToya Shelton, an ex-offender and current employee at Underguard. Our host Kyle Hannah and LaToya dive into LaToya’s upbringing, her two convictions, and her journey from incarceration to now being on track to reaching her exciting goals. LaToya’s story inspires ex-offenders and the incarcerated population to be relentless in reaching for their own goals. She encourages everyone to define what they’re aiming for clearly and that you can be optimistic as there are opportunities for ex-offenders. She was determined to succeed after her second conviction, and now two months after her release, she is working two jobs and even going back to school. WHAT TO LISTEN FOR The Wrong Type of Ambition: LaToya became enticed with fast money and shiny objects, which ultimately led to a conviction at 22 years old. [03:10] From LaToya’s Arrest to Her Time in County Jail: LaToya remained in county jail for the duration of her first sentence, where she had no access to programs or outdoor recreation. [05:20] LaToya’s release five years later, at 27 years old, came with anxiety, uncertainty, and few prospects. [07:45] A Lesson from God? LaToya’s second criminal charge was at 33 years old after selling drugs for only a few days. [08:45] Two years later, she was ultimately sentenced to 20 years at 35% but only served three and a half years due to good behavior. [10:40] A Total Mindset Shift: This time LaToya was able to work in the call center. This allowed her to save money, call her family, buy new clothes, help her mom, and even go back to school. [12:20] LaToya’s Secret to Success: believing in herself, defining her goals, and changing her environment. [13:30] Reaching for the Stars: LaToya’s time at Underguard, working two jobs, and going back to school. [14:30] LaToya’s final takeaway: Whether you’re incarcerated or an ex-offender, reach for the stars because they will light up your world! [15:20]
Be inspired and be bold, this is the Prosperity after Prison podcast. UNDERGUARD TELESERVICES Website: https://my.captivate.fm/ugteleservices.com (ugteleservices.com) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ugteleservices/ (@ugteleservices) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/underguard-teleservices (Underguard Teleservices) CONNECT WITH KYLE: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylehannah (Kyle Hannah) QUOTES: “Don’t ever stop or give up on yourself because there’s a lot of help out here.” - LaToya Shelton [15:20] “Just reach for the stars because I promise you, it’ll light up your world.” - LaToya Shelton [15:35]
Episode 11 of the Prosperity after Prison Podcast features special guest Ed Davis, recorded in-person at his new barber shop, https://www.fadeduptown.com/ (Faded Barbershop Uptown). Ed shares his testimony of surviving a harsh and abusive childhood only to find himself serving time over an unexpected argument right into adulthood. He explains how he accepted god into his life, which ultimately lead him to discover his life's purpose, and a strong passion to become a barber. Kyle and Ed discuss the importance of staying positive and manifesting the life that you want, pushing beyond the statistics. Ed goes into detail on how sacrifice and extreme saving allowed him to start his own business, and why surrounding yourself with trustworthy, supportive people can contribute to your future. Be inspired and be bold, this is the Prosperity after Prison podcast. UNDERGUARD TELESERVICES Website: ugteleservices.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ugteleservices/ (@uteleservices) Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/underguard-teleservices (Underguard Teleservices) CONNECT WITH KYLE: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylehannah (Linkedin: Kyle Hannah)
Nicole Brown joins us on Episode 10 of the Prosperity After Prison Podcast and shares her testimony of overcoming what could have ultimately ended her life. From a tragic childhood, painful addiction, to even cancer while in Prison. The strength Nicole has is absolutely undeniably clear as her life took a complete 180. WHAT TO LISTEN FOR: Nicole shares a traumatic event leading her to leave high school in fear for her safety, and complete lack of accountability from the school. [00:01:51] Shocking actions from a doctor that Illegally prescribed medication in exchange for abusive, sexual acts “disguised” as a medical exam. [00:05:27] Kyle and Nicole discuss how the unexpected, and tragic death of her mother jettisoned her deeper into addiction. [00:07:03] Nicole goes in-depth to share the dangers of meth amphetamine and how it can completely change someone, mentally and physically. [00:10:02] Kyle and Nicole examine her initial prison sentence at 27 years old, and how she was seconds away from facing a life sentence. [00:11:52] Nicole tells her first hand experience in prison from the horrible in-take process and life altering events, to meeting inspirational mentors. Nicole explains her decision to become sober, and remain sober 20 years later. [00:17:04] Nicole and Kyle discuss the various jobs Nicole had in prison, the challenges to maintain even the bare minimum of financial stability. Nicole reveals how prisoners are being extorted, enabling the prison system to profit millions of dollars a year. [00:25:46] Kyle and Nicole talk about the amazing opportunity to work in the call center, and the loving, positive influence Kyle’s father deeply in-stilled in her life and others. [00:28:28] The amount of newly discovered confidence and professional skills that the call center environment inspired, and the change to regain financial stability.[00:33:14] Nicole shares the details on her overwhelming battle with cancer (twice!), and the challenges of medical care in the prison system. [00:36:47] The surreal experience of being released from Prison and immediately having to adjust in the middle of a Pandemic. [00:45:23] Current employment, building floors for massive sporting facilities, including the NCAA, Tokyo Olympics, March Madness, SEC. Nicole and Kyle discuss some of the challenges newly released prisoners face when facing judgmental employers. Nicole shares inspirational words to encourage listeners to maintain perseverance. [00:48:10]
Be inspired and be bold, this is the Prosperity after Prison podcast. UNDERGUARD TELESERVICES Website: ugteleservices.com Facebook: @https://www.facebook.com/ugteleservices/ (ugteleservices) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/underguard-teleservices (Underguard Teleservices) CONNECT WITH KYLE: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylehannah (Kyle Hannah) QUOTES: “I walked in prison and I said, okay. They can take my freedom. They can take my life basically for the next 20 years, but I will not allow them to take my heart. “ [00:18:26] - Nicole (Nicole quoting Kyle’s Father) “He said, you'll always be somebody to me. And he said, I don't want to hear that. Life's not fair cause fairs are where you go to ride rides.” [00:29:30] - Nicole “You are not a statistic. Nicole, you have achieved what not many post-incarceration do, which is one, find a job that supports yourself and your family. And two you love. And three you've done it fairly quickly. Statistics show Nicole that 75% of people that are released from prison to not obtain employment in their first 12 months.” [00:32:31] - Kyle My strategy for life in general is basically, first of all, with God, all things are possible. It doesn't matter. You can move a mountain, a mountain, an entire mountain, as long as you're on your knees. That is the greatest strength you can ever have. [00:51:29] - Nicole
On episode 9 of the Prosperity after Prison Podcast, Kari Williams joins us for a special edition episode focusing on discovering the “true you”, and not just what others around you may lead you to believe. Kari and Kyle discuss the importance of mental health awareness, and how toxic relationships can become a prison in their own way. Kari takes us through her learning curve of relationships, and overcoming codependency that has kept her isolated from her true potential. WHAT TO LISTEN FOR: Kari shares her life growing up and being adopted, expressing that she never felt like she was able to fit in, and now has a goal to find her tribe in life, and why having a positive “tribe” of people around you is important. [6:30] Kyle and Kari discuss different ways to meet positive people and the importance of reaching out for help. Kyle shares how getting connected in a Church community will allow you to meet great people who will not judge you and will accept you as you are. [6:52] We dive into how childhood trauma can play a major role on who you are, and how you respond to toxic events as you grow older. Kari shares a childhood experience of mistreatment from her teacher, and how she was led to believe situations like this were acceptable. [10:30] We touch on the importance of therapy and counseling. Kari mentions she wants to be an advocate for others to help overcome narcissist abuse, and how the judicial system is finally recognizing this as a major issue that affects a lot of people. [16:37] Kyle and Kari discuss how her life has changed since working with Under Guard. Learning that quality over quantity is always the way to go. Kari has regained her confidence and has been focusing on herself. Setting boundaries to take her live to the next level vs catering to potentially toxic motives from others. [22:23]
Be inspired and be bold, this is the Prosperity after Prison podcast. UNDERGUARD TELESERVICES Website: ugteleservices.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ugteleservices/ (@ugteleservices) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/underguard-teleservices (Underguard Teleservices) CONNECT WITH KYLE: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylehannah/ (Kyle Hannah) QUOTES: “If your tribe or your people try to confuse you, if you feel conflicted, if your morals feel conflicted, if your values feel conflicted, if your own concept of your own react reality becomes conflicted. They're not your people. Your people are your personal cheerleaders. They don't have to agree with everything that you do, and they don't have to save you from every pit that you fall in. But they most certainly are not the root of your chaos or the conflict on that you can get within yourself, because that is the worst conflict of them all. To have to you wonder your own reality because you've been told it was one way, and it most certainly was not right.” - Kari Williams [25:56] “Unhealthy relationship goes into every aspect of your life. It's not just a bad relationship, it messes so many different things up. I mean, Besides your self esteem, your self worth, your finances, your mental state, your emotional state, your housing, everything you've been through, all of that.”- Kyle Hannah [31:07] “The story we tell ourselves can be uplifting and encouraging and help move forward, or it can hinder us and keep us down.” - Kyle Hannah [31:55]
In episode 8 of the Prosperity after Prison Podcast, we welcome our guest Kelly Alvarado whose powerful story will teach us many valuable lessons about turning your life around as an ex-offender. Kelly tells us about her life, including her drug addiction, convictions, working at the call center, and her life today. During her time at prison, working in the kitchens and at Underguard significantly improved her self-respect and self-worth. However, only when given the opportunity to work at the call center was she able to significantly improve her prospects. Not only did the call center job help her develop shop skills and gain work experiences but it also gave her a significant income and safety net. As the call center job is such an invaluable opportunity in prison, the job holds them accountable and to a very high standard. Kyle and Kelly’s insights further emphasize that companies need to consider employing an incarcerated population. WHAT TO LISTEN FOR Kelly takes us on a journey through her tumultuous childhood, teenage years, and twenties up to the point of her conviction. [00:40] How Kelly’s conviction changed the way she viewed herself, improved her self-worth and helped take drugs out of her life. [05:18] Kelly explains the differences between working in the kitchen versus working at Underguard. With the latter, she was able to improve her well-being significantly and gain invaluable work experiences. [08:36] A life-changing opportunity: after transferring to a different prison, Kelly was given the opportunity to work at Underguard, in a real-life work environment. [11:18] Kelly and Kyle explain how a higher salary at the call center gives the incarcerated population a chance to support themselves during and after prison. [15:44] Kelly’s journey of sobriety: prison gave her the opportunity, but the call center gave her purpose. [22:06] Invaluable experiences, transferable skills, and references for your resume: not only can you support yourself, but your job prospects significantly improve. [23:15] How Kelly went from dealing drugs to working at a recovery center where she now shows women what it takes to turn your life around. [25:00] Safety and Privacy: Kelly explains that in addition to strict rules and the monitoring of calls, the incentive to work outweighs any reason for behavior infractions. [28:40]
Be inspired and be bold, this is the Prosperity after Prison podcast. UNDERGUARD TELESERVICES Website: ugteleservices.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ugteleservices/ (@ugteleservices) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/underguard-teleservices/ (Underguard Teleservices) QUOTES: “It planted that seed of confidence in me that has taken me so far in life.” - Kelly Alvarado [14:05] “Now your life purpose has become helping people that were once where you were at.” - Kyle Hannah [27:16] “I get to give back to the community that for so long, I just took so much from in all my addiction.” - Kelly Alvarado [27:55] “I get to show women be the living proof every day, that there is a better way.” - Kelly Alvarado [28:10] “It made me a better person just being held accountable for it.” - Kelly Alvarado [32:40]
Job seekers with a criminal record face a difficult time finding employment. What's the best way to break into the workforce? For many, it is partnering with and developing an incarcerated population. We'll talk about how this can help both employers and those who are looking for jobs in this Q&A episode! In episode 7 of the Prosperity after Prison Podcast, we welcome back our inspiring guest Belinda Potter. Our host Kyle Hannah and Belinda share insights about working with an ex-offender and incarcerated population, including details about the hiring process, the work environment, and how employing this population promotes prison reform. Belinda speaks about the rewarding aspects of her job, such as being able to help ex-felons struggling with issues such as depression and addiction. In addition, the supportive, compassionate, and gracious team culture not only sets a clear example for the employees but provides the perfect work environment for Belinda and her colleagues. These factors among many others make Belinda’s job feel like a mission rather than a job. WHAT TO LISTEN FOR Belinda describes the ex-offenders’ enthusiastic, hard-working, and dedicated work ethic. [05:00] The Rewarding Aspects of Belinda’s Job: one-on-one coaching and improving upon the ex-offenders and the incarcerated population’s prospects. [10:00] The Encouraging and Supportive Team Culture at Underguard: how Belinda and her colleagues support each other to overcome issues and hardships. [11:00] Belinda and Kyle share details about the hiring and interview process which is very similar to traditional hiring processes; anyone can apply with a few exceptions. [13:40] Kyle notes that the turnover and shrinkage rates are very low compared to traditional businesses as the ex-offenders and incarcerated population are motivated and dedicated to their jobs. [19:50] Underguard promotes Servant Leadership, a philosophy in which the goal of the leader is to serve; Belinda has embraced this philosophy fully. [27:26] Kyle explains why he was skeptical about employing offenders and ex-offenders at first but then realized how beneficial this business model could be for the business, clients, but especially for the inmates. [31:03] Kyle advocates for bigger companies to follow suit: it will help offenders and ex-offenders develop transferable skills, reduce crime rates and recidivism, among many other positive effects. [36:46]
Be inspired and be bold, this is the Prosperity after Prison podcast. UNDERGUARD TELESERVICES Website: ugteleservices.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ugteleservices (@ugteleservices) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/underguard-teleservices/ (Underguard Teleservices) CONNECT WITH KYLE: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylehannah/?trk=org-employees_profile-result-card_result-card_full-click (LinkedIn: Kyle Hannah) CONNECT WITH BELINDA: https://www.linkedin.com/in/belinda-potter-87278b1a7/ (LinkedIn: Belinda Potter) https://www.facebook.com/belinda.e.potter?hc_ref=ARR_OoUW2gm9W7D-fh_2nVsc8Vt3vmqxIOetVjpnyF-5U6oueFztqnwdlQ1JeNf_gt4&ref=nf_target (Facebook: Belinda Elrod Potter) QUOTES: “I tell people all the time that my job is more of a mission than a job.” - Belinda Potter [01:35] “It's just so encouraging to me every day, it makes it so rewarding to see those messages and how grateful they are for Underguard, giving them the chance.” - Belinda Potter [02:53] “There's just not enough employment opportunities for inmates right now that are meaningful and transferable to today's model.” - Kyle Hannah [41:25]
We welcome Cynthia Gilliam to Episode 6 of the Prosperity after Prison podcast, who shares her inspiring story and the life-changing decisions she made throughout her life to become the survivor and the incredible mother she is today. Growing up Cynthia went from taking care of herself at the age of 14, living in a small Tennessee town, to ultimate culture shock and sensory overload when she moved to California two years later. Cynthia shares the challenges she was faced with shortly after getting married at 18 years old and starting a family. Surrounded by her husband's verbal and mental abuse, Cynthia was unable to find a sense of safety and stability in her life, and resorted to drugs in attempt to numb the world around her. After a devastating event, Cynthia found herself potentially facing a 51 year sentence in Prison. Putting her faith and trust in God, she made the decision to come clean and relieve the tremendous weight she was carrying for years, ultimately leading to re-discovering herself, rebuilding a new foundation for her life. "I can either sit here and let my time do me, or I can do this time. So at that moment, I knew that I wasn't going to waste a day of my stay. I had to be there. So why not learn about myself, learn about why I was a drug addict. Learn about me. What color did I really like? What did I like to do? Get all the information, all the classes I could do to better myself, because I'm going home one day. I know I am going home. And that's what I told myself every single day, you're going home. It might not be today, but you're going home. And that's what got me through." - Cynthia Gilliam Cynthia shares her present day life, her testimony and how much she's accomplished. Providing encouragement to anyone going through similar obstacles, she touches on the importance of believing in yourself, and working hard to show the world you're not the the same person from your past. Kyle and Cynthia discuss the positive impact Kyle's father, Casey, Kyle, and his sister Kelly have embedded in the hearts of countless people in search of a way to better themselves and persevere just as Cynthia did, by presenting life changing opportunities. Kyle announces the upcoming launch of their nonprofit organization, "Prosperity after Prison programs." This nonprofit is designed to provide financial aid and resources to ex offenders upon release. Select individuals will receive assistance with re-establishment costs to be able to begin working and living immediately after release.
On Episode 5 of the Prosperity After Prison Podcast, we are joined by Tracy Whitt who describes the heartbreaking journey that she had to endure, ultimately losing the very things that made her feel whole. From an undeniable place of rock bottom and countless setbacks, to reaching a state of healing and enlightenment. Tracy shares her struggles of wanting to give up on life, and what ultimately inspired her to take charge stating "If God wasn't going to let me die, I had to learn how to live". Wanting to pass on the miracle that was given to her, Tracy shares that she survived the tragedies in her life because God wanted her to help others persevere. Tracy is on a mission to create her own rehabilitation center and ministry to help guide others facing challenges in their own lives. She is living testimony of what you can overcome, even if you're starting over with only $5, a backpack, and a dream to serve others.
On Episode 4 of the Prosperity after Prison Podcast, we welcome special guest Pam Smith. In this episode, Kyle and Pam discuss her first hand experience serving 28 years starting at the age of 19. Pam touches on how surreal it was discover how much the world around her changed in that amount of time, including day to day technology that we take for granted including touch-screen phones, or even the taste of McDonalds. Pam talks about how cautious she had to be as a teenager in Prison due to the majority of her peers being in their late 20s. She shares how she was able to falling into negativity by surrounding herself with Christians, and becoming involved with the Church. Kyle and Pam talk about how other-worldly it must have felt seeing how much technology and cars have changed. Pam shares how she went from using a rotary style phone to discovering the latest in touch-screen devices. The importance of saving and thinking of creative, healthy, and productive ways to make additional money while incarcerated. How drastic the cost of various services such as dental work can be, and how important it is to prepare for those "real-world" costs while you're incarcerated. Pam shares her love for animals, and now owns a goat, two little dogs, and a lot of Chickens. Kyle congratulates her on her upcoming Marriage. Finding a sense of family from Kyle's family and the UnderGuard team, and the importance that companies adopt the same principles the UnderGuard family spreads each day to make a positive impact in society.
Be inspired and be bold, this is the Prosperity after Prison podcast.
Episode 3 features special guest Danita Wilson, who shares her experience while serving 14 years of a 37 year prison sentence, and the dedication she made to ensure success in her life upon release. Danita and Kyle discuss the positive impact that companies like Under Guard continuously provide to people that are currently incarcerated or have been released. Danita explains how the employment opportunity with Under Guard provided her with fulfillment engaging with callers. She found happiness helping resolve issues for people, and receiving compliments pertaining to a product that Under Guard was supporting, gave Danita the chance to feel apart of a strong team, restoring confidence in herself. "In Prison you have to find the desire to want to change. A second-chance employer helped me establish that." Danita expresses the importance of making the best use of your time while incarcerated, and shares her outstanding accomplishments, including obtaining her GED, and saving $5,000 with the help of Under Guard. Danita discusses her experience meeting Kyle and his father, and the enormous positive impact Kyle's father Casey had on her life. Kyle and Danita both connect with their own inspiring stories, and ways other companies should follow Under Guard's mission to allow opportunities for ex-felons to be more accessible.
On Episode 2 of the Prosperity after Prison Podcast, we welcome special guest Joe Peterson. In this episode, Kyle chats with Joseph Peterson about his real life testimony of 17 years of incarceration, and the challenges of rising above the recidivism statistics. Joe shares stories of some of the inspiring people he's met along his journey, and discusses the many benefits of hiring ex-inmates, and why companies thinking outside the "check-box" on a job application is so important. Joe sheds light on how meeting an eclectic group, while in prison, influenced him to improve his outdated ways of thinking. The degree of culture shock of Joe’s late bloom to prison, and being released at 60yrs old. Dive deep into his once fixation with his love for power and money and the wake up call to have an honest relationship with God How vital it is to be in the prison ministry and to stay connected through either religious or self help programs to prepare for post release. How companies should put aside prior biases on hiring “Untapped Potential” Finding stability and employment with Under Guard Services and the challenges of rising above the recidivism statistics.
Be inspired and be bold, this is the Prosperity after Prison podcast.
In our very first episode on Prosperity after Prison we welcome a special guest - Belinda P. as she takes us through her journey from incarceration to redemption. Hear from Belinda about her experience of incarceration, to the people who impacted her life along the way, to starting the next chapter of her life. Belinda shares some of her most vulnerable experiences during her time of incarceration. You are sure to find an emotional moment or three throughout this episode. Be inspired from Belinda's story as she trusted in her Faith to give her the strength and will power to take life head on one day at a time as she stayed focused and committed. Be inspired and be bold, this is the Prosperity after Prison podcast.