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June 2, 2025 53 mins

What happens when a 16-year-old is sentenced to life in prison? What if that same person becomes a powerful voice for redemption, hope, and purpose?


In this episode, Steve sits down with Lewis Lee, a man whose life journey will challenge everything you think you know about justice, transformation, and the power of God’s love.


From the streets of West Philadelphia to a life sentence without parole, Lewis’ story is one of unimaginable pain, devastating choices, and a divine encounter that changed everything. After nearly 45 years behind bars, Lewis walks us through how prison not only saved his life but gave him a mission: to rescue others.


Now the founder of Men of Purpose International, Lewis is helping formerly incarcerated men and women find community, purpose, and lasting change through the power of Jesus Christ.


Whether you've been impacted by incarceration or simply want to witness what true restoration looks like—this is a story you need to hear.


Topics include:

* Growing up in Philly’s gang culture

* A life-altering crime at age 15

* The spiritual awakening that changed everything

* Navigating 45 years behind bars with faith and purpose

* Founding Men of Purpose International during the pandemic

* His powerful message to today's youth and returning citizens


🔗 Learn more at https://embracingbrokenness.org/

📘 Featured Book: Get Free and Stay Free by David Lewis

https://a.co/d/eYx5VWf

🌍 Connect with Men of Purpose International

https://menofpurposeintl.com/


Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Louis Lee's Journey

01:49 Early Life and Influences in Philadelphia

05:52 The Shift to a Life of Crime

08:45 First Encounters with the Law

15:10 The Robbery and Its Consequences

20:43 Finding Faith in Prison

23:30 A Renewed Commitment to Faith

27:05 Prison as a Catalyst for Change

30:14 Finding Peace in Uncertainty

33:39 The Impact of Supreme Court Rulings

36:11 Navigating Parole and Release

38:55 Adjusting to Life After Prison

41:02 Building Community Through Technology

43:38 Vision for Men of Purpose International

45:03 A Message to the Youth

48:56 The Importance of Decision Making

51:52 Returning to Serve and Inspire

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