In this episode, Steven opens up about his tumultuous past — growing up on welfare, surviving through drug dealing, and enduring the lasting effects of domestic violence. He reflects on how his life spiraled into addiction and the long, painful journey toward self-awareness and healing. Steven also shares a poignant memory of a chance encounter with Floyd, Michele’s husband, and the profound consequences that followed, culminating in Floyd’s tragic murder.
Nearly 19 years later, Steven participates in a Victim-Offender Dialogue with Michele. This powerful process allows him to share his side of the story and hear the grief and pain that Michele has carried for nearly two decades. Guided by a mentor, Steven embarks on a transformative journey of redemption, finding peace in this deeply healing experience. He reflects on how the dialogue helped lift the weight of his past, offering clarity and restoring his sense of humanity and hope.
This content may be sensitive or disturbing to some listeners.
Executive Producer: Diane Kahn
Producer: Elaine Ferguson
Producer: Emerson Swift
Producer: Laura Hardy
Editor: Josh Latham
Music: Jacob Bloomfield-Misarch
Artwork: Jorge Ramirez
A special thank you to the Ahimsa Collective and the Mend Collective. Ahimsa focuses on restorative justice, fostering healing and accountability through dialogue between victims and offenders, while Mend supports emotional and psychological healing through community-based initiatives. A heartfelt thanks as well to Martina Lutz Schneider and Miguel Quezada, whose dedication to restorative practices and conflict resolution has been vital in advancing these important efforts.
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