Summary:

Once you enter the prison system, a stigma becomes a part of your life no matter where you go or what you try to do.

Why aren’t prison systems trying to change that?

In this episode, Brent Mekosh is joined by Lester Young, renowned author and Re-Entry Expert Coach. Lester shares his life in prison, the ways he has created opportunities for himself once released, and the mental and physical obstacles faced by those who have been incarcerated.

Lester discusses:

  • How one moment can change your entire life
  • How he reclaimed himself despite everyone else
  • The definition of being paid under the table
  • The stigma of incarceration
  • Why programs benefiting inmates aren’t encouraged within the prison system
  • The foundation of Path2Redemption
  • And more!

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 About Our Guest:

Lester Young Jr. is a native of Hilton Head Island, SC. At the age of 19, he was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole until 20 years had been served. Entering prison without the proper education was Lester’s biggest struggle. With the support of family and friends, he was able to obtain his G.E.D. and then later enroll in a Business Management Course (via mail) as a student of Ashworth College.

Lester began drawing attention from prison chaplains, correctional officers, as well as wardens for the interest he expressed in NOT only educating himself but encouraging others to educate themselves as well.

With permission for the warden, Lester began meeting with Chaplain Gerald Potoka to create templates, course outlines, programs, and classes to instruct and mentor those incarcerated along with him. This is where the idea of “Path2Redemption” was born.