I’m Not Starting Over. I’m Starting.
Lawanda was incarcerated in Michigan for 34 years, beginning when she was just 17 years old. When talking about her release from prison, Lawanda states, “I’m not starting over. I’m starting.” Lawanda’s resolve, aspirational nature, and community orientation shine through as she details the struggles and triumphs that have come with starting her adult life after prison. In this episode, Lawanda and our hosts discuss re-entry topics including loneliness, adjusting to modern technology, and obtaining identification and resources. Lawanda details her long-held dream of operating a food truck serving prison commissary-inspired food and of hiring formerly incarcerated employees to her business.
