ProBaytion in Alameda County

012: Love Over Everything: Feeding the Soul of Our Community with Division Director April Spikener

In this episode of Probaytion Podcast, host Fina Perez interviews April Spikener, Division Director for the Alameda County Probation Department. They delve into April's extensive experience in the probation system, discussing her journey from obtaining her Bachelor’s Degree from San Jose State University to her roles in various counties, including Santa Clara, San Mateo, and Alameda. April shares insights into her work at Juvenile Ranches and Juvenile Hall, and her responsibilities as a Deputy Probation Officer, Unit Supervisor, and Division Director. Their conversation also touches on the importance of serving the community while maintaining a sense of enjoyment and fulfillment in their roles.   April's contributions extend beyond her professional life. She is a certified Real Colors® Facilitator, a member of the Wall of Success Committee, and part of the Facilities Recruitment Team. Additionally, April is a poet, a three-time author, and the founder of the Love Over Everything Project™, which has provided meals and encouragement to over 500 unhoused individuals in Oakland. During the interview, April reflects on her experience being recognized as a person of consequence during Black History Month, highlighting the significance of her work and her commitment to making a positive impact in the community. If you are interested in learning more about April you can follow her @aprilthepoet on Instagram.

011: Transforming Lives: The Power of Thinking for Change, with Estial Lett and Joey Mason

In this episode of the Probaytion Podcast, host Fina Perez engages in a profound discussion with Estial Lett and Joey Mason about their experiences and perspectives within the probation system. Estial Lett, a Unit Supervisor with the Alameda County Probation Department, shares her insights on the innovative practices in community corrections and her dedication to professional development. Joey Mason recounts his incredible journey from serving a 20-year sentence to becoming a pivotal figure in the Alameda County Probation Department, emphasizing the power of rehabilitation and community support.   Estial Lett's impressive background in criminal justice and her current role in the Best Practices and Innovative Strategies (BPIS) Unit highlights her commitment to implementing evidence-based practices. With certifications in COMPAS, WRNA, and Thinking for a Change (T4C), she discusses the importance of continuous education and training in advancing community corrections. Estial also touches on her experience as a trainer for the National Institute of Corrections program Thinking for a Change, underscoring the significance of training programs like T4C in shaping effective probation practices.   Joey Mason's story is a testament to resilience and transformation. After spending two decades in prison under California's three strikes law, Joey's dedication to self-improvement and helping others led to his early release and subsequent employment with the Alameda County Probation Department. As the department's first Community Outreach Worker, Joey shares how he supports probation clients, aiming to reduce recidivism and foster positive change. His journey from incarceration to homeownership serves as an inspiring example of the impact of rehabilitative programs and community support in the criminal justice system.

010: Communications with Alicia Mitchell

In this episode we dive into a topic that's vital to our community: Communication in probation with Alicia Mitchell, who's stepping into the role of External Communications Director.  Together, we're going to have an open and honest dialogue about all aspects of probation in the Bay Area. During our conversation, Alicia sheds light on the formation of a new unit within our probation department and shares her insights into its significance. We'll explore her background, motivations, and aspirations, gaining valuable insights into the person behind this pivotal position. Tune in to discover: * The mission and vision behind the new unit within Alameda County's probation system * Alicia Mitchell's journey and experiences that led her to her current role * Her goals and aspirations for enhancing external communications within the probation sector * Candid discussions about the challenges and opportunities within the Bay Area's probation landscape This episode is not just about probation—it's about understanding the people who shape and influence our county. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that delves deep into the heart of Alameda County's probation system.

009: A DPO & Her Client: Talking Financial Literacy and Real Community Service

In this episode of Probaytion in Alameda County Show, Deputy Probation Officer Natalia Milner and her previous client, Dimitri Randolph share insights into the journey of adult supervision. Through their candid conversation, they explore the challenges and triumphs of navigating the probation system. Natalia and Demetri candidly discuss the significance of financial literacy,  fatherhood, and true street smarts. From empowering individuals to make informed financial decisions to emphasizing the importance of giving back to the communities we reside in, Milner and Randolph shed light on the transformative impact of holistic support in fostering successful reentry into society. Through their shared experiences, they underscore the pivotal role of self-empowerment, and community engagement in promoting long-term rehabilitation and contributing positively to society.

008: Excellence in Reentry: Interview with Pat Mims, Janene Grigsby & Corrine Lee

In this enlightening episode, we dive deep into the world of reentry within probation, featuring a team of dedicated professionals from Alameda County Probation and the Center of Reentry Excellence (CORE) program. Together, Corrine Lee, Janene Grigsby, and Pat Mims provide invaluable insights into the transformative services offered by CORE and its impact on our community. Introduction: ·         Fina Perez welcomes listeners to a candid exploration of the CORE program and the individuals behind its mission. ·         The episode aims to shed light on the vital work of probation, emphasizing safety and holistic support for individuals transitioning back into society. Biographies: Pat Mims: ·         Director of Reentry Services, Rubicon Programs. ·         Pat's journey from incarceration to community leadership exemplifies the transformative power of redemption and second chances. ·         He champions responsibility, healing, and vulnerability, leveraging his experiences to create opportunities for those impacted by the criminal justice system. ·         Recognized with prestigious awards for his advocacy and commitment to restorative justice, Pat is dedicated to empowering others and fostering family bonds. Janene Grigsby: ·         Reentry Services Coordinator, Reentry Unit. ·         Janene's multifaceted career spans law, non-profit leadership, and reentry services, driven by her unwavering principles of justice and integrity. ·         As an attorney and advocate, she champions the rights of marginalized communities, embodying the ethos that injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. ·         With a background in neurobiology and a passion for social change, Janene leads initiatives to transform systems and facilitate successful reintegration into communities. Corrine Lee: ·         Probation Re-Entry Services Coordinator – MH/SUD. ·         Corrine brings extensive experience in mental health and substance use services to her role, specializing in integrated wellness and family reunification. ·         Her dedication to supporting individuals in their journey toward rehabilitation is evident in her career trajectory, from school-based therapy to her current position within probation. ·         Corrine's commitment to holistic care underscores the importance of addressing physical, mental, and emotional well-being in the reentry process. Discussion Points: 1.       The guests share personal anecdotes and professional insights, providing insight about the CORE program and the realities of probation work. 2.       They reflect on the challenges and triumphs of their roles, highlighting the importance of compassion, empathy, and community support. 3.       The conversation delves into strategies for enhancing community safety, emphasizing the need for holistic approaches that address root causes of crime and support individuals' journey toward self-actualization. We thank Corrine, Janene, and Pat for their openness and dedication to making a difference in the lives of those impacted by the criminal justice system. We hope you, our listeners, find this conversation an engaging and meaningful dialogue, recognizing humanity and potential for growth in every individual.