After serving 21 years and 7 months in prison, Donte Hayes emerged with a mission—not just to rebuild his own life, but to guide others toward freedom and success. Now the Director of a Behavioral Health Company and Reentry Director at Dreambuilders Foundation, Donte is proof that transformation is possible when given the right opportunities and support.

In this episode of Conviction Fiction, Donte shares:
🔹 His journey from incarceration to leadership in reentry and behavioral health
🔹 The challenges of reentry and the role of mental health in rehabilitation
🔹 His work with Dreambuilders Foundation and its impact on formerly incarcerated individuals
🔹 How he’s using his own experience to help others navigate their second chance at life

Through his story, Donte sheds light on the realities of reintegration, the power of resilience, and the importance of mental health support in creating lasting change.

In this compelling episode ofConviction Fiction, host Antoine Rivers sits down with Eric McDaniel and special guest Robbie to explore the harsh realities of incarceration at a young age. Robbie shares his powerful story of being sent to prison at just 16 years old—facing a system built for punishment rather than rehabilitation. He opens up about the struggles of growing up behind bars, the impact on his mental health, and the obstacles he faced upon reentry into society.

Eric and Robbie also dive into the urgent need for prison reform, discussing the flaws in the justice system that continue to fail young offenders. They examine the importance of second chances, the role of mentorship, and what real rehabilitation should look like.

This is an episode you don’t want to miss—raw, insightful, and deeply personal, it sheds light on the broken system while offering hope for a better future. Tune in toConviction Fiction and join the conversation on breaking the cycle of incarceration.

In this powerful episode of Conviction Fiction, we dive into the transformative power of accountability. Taking ownership of past actions is not just about admitting mistakes—it's about using those lessons to build a better future. We explore what true accountability looks like, how it impacts personal growth, and why it’s essential for rebuilding trust after incarceration. Through real stories of resilience and redemption, we discuss the challenges of moving forward and the mindset shifts necessary for lasting change. Tune in as we break down the barriers of guilt, stigma, and self-doubt to embrace a future defined by responsibility and progress.

What happens when love, resilience, and purpose collide? In this powerful episode of Conviction Fiction, we sit down with Ebony Ross-Stover, the inspiring co-founder of Dreambuilders Foundation. Ebony’s journey is deeply personal—she recently married a man who is incarcerated and turned her experience into a mission-driven nonprofit that supports at-risk youth and individuals reentering society after incarceration.

Join us as Ebony shares her story of breaking barriers, navigating the challenges of love beyond prison walls, and creating real change through mentorship and advocacy. We’ll discuss the impact of incarceration on families, the importance of second chances, and how Dreambuilders Foundation is transforming lives.

🎧 Tune in for an eye-opening conversation filled with hope, empowerment, and the fight to break cycles of incarceration.

🔗 Connect with Dreambuilders Foundation:
🌐 Website: dbfdn.org
📲 Instagram: @dreambuildersfoundation
📘 Facebook: Dreambuilders Foundation

Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear this conversation! 🚀 #ConvictionFiction #DreambuildersFoundation #SecondChances #ReentrySupport #BreakingBarriers

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of Conviction Fiction, we dive into the resilience and determination it takes to build a foundation for success while navigating life behind bars. Special guest Jessica Jones, founder of the nonprofit Beyond the Chains, joins us to share her insights and stories of individuals who refused to let incarceration define their futures.

Together, we explore how love, perseverance, and a commitment to self-improvement can pave the way for transformation and achievement, even in the most challenging circumstances. Tune in for an empowering discussion on breaking barriers, fostering hope, and creating opportunities for a brighter tomorrow.

This is one episode you won't want to miss—because love and success can truly thrive, even when locked down.

In this thought-provoking episode of Conviction Fiction, we delve into the psychological phenomenon of cognitive dissonance—what it is, how it impacts decision-making, and why it’s particularly significant for individuals navigating life after incarceration.

Through candid discussions, we explore the inner conflicts that arise when values, beliefs, and behaviors clash, and how these struggles manifest in areas like reintegration, relationships, and self-identity. Join us as we unpack the tools and strategies that can help resolve these tensions, paving the way for personal growth and healing.

Whether you're directly impacted by incarceration or simply interested in the human experience, this episode offers insights into overcoming the mental roadblocks that hold us back. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that challenges stigma and promotes understanding.

Don’t miss it—stream now wherever you get your podcasts!

In this powerful episode, we turn the spotlight on women and incarceration, exploring their unique challenges and triumphs within the justice system. Our special guest, April Paulk of AP Rose Entertainment, shares her insights and experiences, shedding light on the resilience of women navigating life before, during, and after incarceration.

We also dive into the reality TV phenomenon @thequeenables, a show that’s redefining narratives around women in the system. From heartache to hope, this episode uncovers stories of strength and transformation, breaking down stereotypes and opening doors for change.

Join us for an inspiring conversation that uplifts the voices of women impacted by incarceration and celebrates their journey to empowerment.

📢 Don’t miss this episode of Conviction Fiction!

As the calendar turns to a new year, it's a natural moment for self-reflection and setting intentions. But what if thriving in the year ahead is less about resolutions and more about understanding your deeper needs?

In this episode of Conviction Fiction, we dive into the power of self-reflection and explore how Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs can serve as a guide to identify what fuels us on our journey to growth and fulfillment. From basic physiological necessities to the pursuit of self-actualization, we discuss how recognizing and prioritizing these needs can pave the way to a balanced, purpose-driven life.

Tune in for an engaging conversation that will inspire you to connect with what truly matters and set the foundation for a thriving 2024.

Key Takeaways:

Start your New Year with clarity and purpose—listen now!