License to Operate

Nate Driggers's Journey: From Aspiring Athlete to Community Advocate

In this episode of LTO, Nate Driggers shares his extraordinary life journey from childhood hardship in Roseland to professional basketball, and ultimately to his impactful work in community violence intervention. Nathan shares raw insights into his early struggles, street life, and his inspiring efforts to give back to at-risk youth.

The Hidden Power of Community Roots in Shaping Education - Liz Dozier

On this episode of LTO, join us as Liz Dozier, founder and CEO of Chicago Beyond, shares her inspiring journey from Chicago's schools to leading with transformative philanthropy. Discover her insights on trauma, community resilience, and innovative approaches to social change.

From Wrongful Conviction to Community Leader - Amir Bowman's Journey

Amir Bowman’s journey from wrongful imprisonment to leading community change is nothing short of inspiring. After being exonerated, he dedicated himself to healing who he once was and helping others avoid the traps he fell into. His story reminds us: change is possible, and support can be the turning point.

Transforming Violence - "The Peace Doctor" Erica Ford

In this episode, Kanoya Ali and Peter Cunningham sit down with Erica Ford, widely known as the "Peace Doctor," to explore her groundbreaking work in community violence intervention (CVI) and the remarkable transformation of New York City from a high-violence environment into a safer, more hopeful community. They discuss her vital role in the Crisis Management System, the innovative Peace Bus initiative, and the critical need for sustained investment in community-based violence prevention efforts. Erica also shares powerful insights on the importance of self-care for those on the front lines of activism, while emphasizing our collective responsibility in building true public safety. The conversation also addresses the political challenges surrounding violence reduction and makes a compelling case for a healing-centered approach to strengthening communities.

Transforming Lives: The Journey of William Juju Brown

In this episode, William Juju Brown shares his journey from a troubled upbringing in Englewood, Chicago, to becoming a life coach with Chicago CRED. He discusses the challenges faced by participants in the community violence intervention program, the importance of cognitive behavioral interventions, and the need for mentorship and support systems. Juju emphasizes the significance of addressing the roots of violence and the role of youth in prevention efforts. He reflects on his personal growth and the impact of CBI on reducing community violence, while also highlighting the ongoing need for engagement and support in the community.