SOLUTIONS FROM THE YARD
Candid discussions about life behind bars and its effect on society and the reentry journey back to community post-incarceration.
Candid discussions about life behind bars and its effect on society and the reentry journey back to community post-incarceration.
Episodes

May 2, 2025
Episode 47: Public Safety: Let’s Talk pt. 2
May 2, 2025
May 2, 2025
28 min
In this episode of "Solutions from the Yard," host Dietrich Trent and co-hosts Michael Dickerson-El and Charles Hopkins discuss public safety and recent legislation on neck restraints. They criticize changes that could allow police to use chokeholds more freely, despite previous bans. The conversation highlights concerns about police accountability and the potential harm to black and brown communities. They also discuss the issue of allowing police to review body camera footage before writing reports, which could undermine transparency and justice.
May 2, 2025
28 min

May 2, 2025
Episode 46: Public Safety: Let’s Talk pt. 1
May 2, 2025
May 2, 2025
25 min
In this episode of "Solutions from the Yard," host Dietrich Trent, along with co-hosts Michael Dickerson-El and Charles Hopkins, discuss the challenges of life in prison and reintegration into society. They highlight their efforts to help others reintegrate and mention a recent community impact award Michael received. The conversation critiques the focus on increasing penalties for crimes without addressing the underlying social issues that lead to youth hopelessness and questions the effectiveness of such punitive policies in improving public safety.
May 2, 2025
25 min

Nov 26, 2024
Episode 45: Reentry Success Pt. 2
Nov 26, 2024
Nov 26, 2024
28 min
In this episode of "Solutions from the Yard," Michael Dickerson-El hosts a discussion with JoeHouston, who shares his journey of reentry after five years in prison. Joe describes thechallenges he faced, including securing employment and eventually becoming a certifiedpersonal trainer. He emphasizes the importance of mentorship, particularly from a figure named Mousy, and the support of his team in building We Fit DC. Despite setbacks and burnout, Joe's persistence led to the successful establishment of We Fit DC, providing fitness and wellness opportunities in the community.
Nov 26, 2024
28 min

Nov 19, 2024
Episode 44: Reentry Success Pt. 1
Nov 19, 2024
Nov 19, 2024
28 min
On this episode of "Solutions from the Yard," the guys had an amazing conversation with Joe Houston Jr. on Solutions from the Yard today. Joe, the founder of We Fit DC, shared his journey from growing up in a challenging environment in DC to becoming a leader and mentor for at-risk youth. His story of resilience and transformation during his time in prison is truly inspiring. Joe’s work in the community, helping others navigate their way back into society, shows the incredible impact of positive mentorship and support.
Nov 19, 2024
28 min

Nov 12, 2024
Episode 43: The Truth About Sentencing Pt. 2
Nov 12, 2024
Nov 12, 2024
28 min
Today's episode of Solutions from the Yard was truly enlightening. Norman Ramel joined us todiscuss the Sentencing Commission and the crucial need for sentencing reforms. We delvedinto the impact of mandatory minimum sentences, the First Step Act amendments, and the importance of judicial discretion. Norman's insights remind us that our justice system must evolve to better serve humanity by recognizing the potential for redemption and change. This is a conversation that needs to continue as we strive for a fairer society.
Nov 12, 2024
28 min

Nov 5, 2024
Episode 42: The Truth About Sentencing Pt. 1
Nov 5, 2024
Nov 5, 2024
28 min
Today on Solutions from the Yard, we had an insightful discussion with Norman Ramel, adedicated advocate for criminal justice reform. Norman has spent his career defending thoseaccused at various judicial levels and pushing for much-needed changes in our justice system.His work with the Clemency Project 2014 helped secure commutations for nearly 900individuals. It was an honor to hear his perspective on the Sentencing Commission and the vitalreforms needed to create a fairer, more compassionate system.
Nov 5, 2024
28 min

Oct 29, 2024
Episode 41: Faith in Prison Pt. 2
Oct 29, 2024
Oct 29, 2024
28 min
The discussion continues with Dietrich Trent sharing his initial skepticism and negativeperception of religious individuals in prison, viewing them as arrogant. Over time, as hematured, he realized the importance of having a compass in life and the fragility of faith in theprison environment. He describes how some people misuse faith for personal gain, which canshake others' faith. Trent emphasizes the need to personalize one's faith and be cautious about whom to follow. Michael Dickerson-El reflects on how adopting faith helped him change his mindset and character, providing a foundation for his transformation and aiding in his successful reentry into society
Oct 29, 2024
28 min

Oct 22, 2024
Episode 40: Faith in Prison Pt. 1
Oct 22, 2024
Oct 22, 2024
28 min
In this episode of "Solutions from the Yard," Michael Dickerson-El, Charles Hopkins, andDietrich Trent discuss the role of faith in prison and its impact on reintegration into society. They emphasize how faith provides a foundation and solace for many incarcerated individuals,helping them cope with their circumstances and envision a better future. Each host sharespersonal experiences of how their faith journey began and evolved while in prison, highlightingthe transformative power of believing in something greater than oneself. The conversation alsotouches on the importance of changing one's self-perception and the challenges of maintaining faith in a difficult environment.
Oct 22, 2024
28 min

Oct 15, 2024
Episode 39: Crime Bill After Effects
Oct 15, 2024
Oct 15, 2024
28 min
The Solutions from the Yard podcast discusses the crucial role of SNAP benefits in aiding formerly incarcerated individuals to reintegrate into society. They highlight the financial challenges these individuals face, emphasizing that SNAP benefits can significantly ease their transition by alleviating the cost of food. The hosts argue that denying these benefits contributes to recidivism by forcing individuals into desperate situations. They advocate for the restoration of SNAP benefits for all, stressing that access to food is a fundamental human right and should not be used as a form of punishment.
Oct 15, 2024
28 min

Oct 8, 2024
Episode 38: Miseducation of Youth Part 2
Oct 8, 2024
Oct 8, 2024
25 min
Join us on "Solutions from the Yard" as we examine the systemic factors contributing to the miseducation and incarceration of our youth. Our hosts provide a thorough analysis of how historical injustices and current policies perpetuate these issues. We also discuss the importance of parental involvement and the need for community-based solutions to break these cycles. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone interested in social justice and community development.
Oct 8, 2024
25 min

SOLUTIONS FROM THE YARD
Solutions From The Yard is hosted by Dietrich, Michael, and Charles, three Voices for a Second Chance's Train Our Voices graduates and will cover the many facets involving the impact of mass incarceration and the complexities of reentry. Discussions will center around but not be limited to trauma, homelessness, employment, mental health, and family dynamics. Our podcast will educate the listener on how to navigate the complexities of reentry and connect on existing challenges within the criminal justice system. Here, we will share authentic experiences with listeners on the impact of incarceration and navigating life after release and beyond.







