What We Hear When We Truly Listen
What We Hear When We Truly Listen
By Jessica Coz
Dignity and potential belong to every person. That belief is at the heart of Awake’s mission. The Person Next to You is another way that Awake is shining light on stories often left in the shadows.
This podcast is fully produced by members of the Awake team, and it is deeply meaningful to all involved in the project. There is a strong desire to explore the realities behind one of the most overlooked social issues in the country: the challenges faced by the one in three Americans living with a criminal background as we seek employment, stability, and a path forward.
In the first few episodes of The Person Next to You, listeners are introduced to voices that are raw, honest, and unforgettable.
We’ve shared stories from Awake employees, people whose journeys intersect with second-chance opportunities. We’ve had conversations with two exceptional individuals currently incarcerated.
These are not abstract statistics; they are real stories of resilience and resolve. They remind us that behind every resume rejection, every closed door, and every policy debate are human lives seeking a second chance.
We approach each episode with empathy, curiosity, and respect. Our interviews are meant to more than just inform; they are meant to connect.
They invite you to listen, to reflect, and to recognize pieces of yourself in people that society often sidelines. The result is more than a podcast episode, it’s an invitation to rethink assumptions about talent, potential, and what true reintegration looks like.
If you’re looking for something that challenges your perspectives and deepens your understanding, this podcast is a place to start. Whether you’re new to the topic or have been engaged for years, each episode offers nuance, humanity, and insight.
If you haven’t yet tuned in, or if it’s been a while, here’s how to find The Person Next to You:
Listening is easy, and sharing is powerful. We encourage you to press play, send an episode to someone you know, and sit with the voices that are too often left unheard. In doing so, you help broaden the conversation about work, stigma, and what it really takes to rebuild a life.