Ep 8: Vanessa Rojas - Healing In Prison Through Therapy and Mentorship

Justice Then, Justice Now

Join us in this powerful episode as we sit down with Vanessa Rojas, Evelyn Bazon-Pappa, and Damaris Ramos Hernandez, to explore their extraordinary journeys from the depths of federal incarceration to becoming beacons of hope and mentors for others. Vanessa's heartbreaking story of childhood trauma, addiction, and the struggles of single motherhood, including caring for a special needs child, sets the stage for an emotional and inspiring conversation. At FCI Tallahassee, Evelyn's mentorship provided Vanessa with the strength and guidance needed to turn her life around and seek a brighter future.
We take a deep dive into the transformative power of therapeutic programs such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and the Residential Drug Abuse Program (RDAP). These therapies have been pivotal in helping Vanessa and others understand and manage their emotions, leading to meaningful personal growth and recovery. Vanessa's candid reflections on her past, from early gang involvement and drug trade to the soul-crushing moments of federal imprisonment, provide a raw and gripping narrative that highlights the complex interplay between addiction, crime, and redemption.
Our conversation also tackles the broader issues within the prison system, shedding light on the challenges of reintegration and the urgency for prison reform. Vanessa's advocacy work, driven by her own experiences and the promise she made to help others, shines a spotlight on the need for compassionate release and community support as essential components of successful reintegration. We conclude with heartfelt stories of resilience and the tireless efforts to support incarcerated women in Colombia, emphasizing the unyielding spirit of those fighting for change and a second chance at life. Don’t miss this episode filled with true stories of resilience, mentorship, and the relentless pursuit of redemption.
Produced by: Citrustream, LLC

Kapitel

1. Ep 8: Vanessa Rojas - Healing In Prison Through Therapy and Mentorship (00:00:00)

2. Overcoming Adversity and Finding Hope (00:00:01)

3. Rehabilitation Through Cognitive Therapy and Reflection (00:14:53)

4. Unveiling the Drug Trade Experience (00:22:34)

5. Inside the Prison System (00:28:36)

6. Navigating Compassionate Release and Halfway House (00:44:22)

7. Resilience and Redemption (00:54:48)

8. Discussing Prison Reform and Rehabilitation (01:10:33)

9. Supporting Incarcerated Women From Colombia (01:17:46)