In today’s episode we round out our series with the Success Stories Program team, with a conversation with their Co-Executive Director, Mannie Thomas III. Mannie shares his personal story and how violence became his primary response to conflict and complex emotions. He describes his feelings in the face of a life sentence, and the ways in which this conflicted with his sense of self and role in his community.

He walks us through his educational journey, and dives deeper into the broader systems of justice — the difference between punitive, restorative, and transformative models and what really drives accountability, safety, and healing. We also talk more explicitly about toxic masculinity’s role in women’s issues and sexual assault — how men participate in and perpetuate rape culture, and what genuine allyship and empowerment look like.

Finally, we talk about the vision and future of Success Stories — early education for kids and parents, and what he’s most hopeful about when it comes to the work they are doing.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Success Stories Program

The Feminist On Cellblock Y

Thoughtful Human x Success Stories

Donate to Success Stories

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