Credible Messengers: “Are you for real, for real?”
A Listening Guide to the Roadmap for Change Podcast, Episode 7
In the juvenile justice system, context is everything and authenticity is key.
Welcome to the Episode 7 Listening Guide!
In the juvenile justice system, context is everything and authenticity is key. In this episode of the Roadmap for Change podcast, examine the many ways to “show up” for youth in the juvenile justice system and how one "irrationally caring adult" can make all the difference for a youth’s future.
As you listen (Step 1), feel free to take notes, and then take some time with the reflection questions when you’re done (Step 2). This will help you process some of the more complex topics and find the ways that they intersect with your own life experiences, work, and circle of influence. Then, choose one of the possible action items (Step 3) that feels accessible and see if you can put it into practice.
Step 1: Listen to the Episode
Step 2: Consider These Reflection Questions
1
Think about a time when you shared your story with someone who had similar experiences as you. How did that conversation feel?
2
Who has been a “credible messenger” to you in your life? Who have you been a credible messenger for?
3
Have you seen normal adolescent behaviors be criminalized in your community? If so, how/in what ways?
Step 3: Take an Action Step
Talk with the peer mentors and credible messengers to the youth in your life. Ask what additional support they need in their work and consider ways you can be an ally in advocating for that support.
Write a letter or email to the “irrationally caring adult” who supported you in your adolescence.
Consider ways in which you could be an “irrationally caring adult” to youth in your life. This might be as formal as receiving training to be a peer recovery coach or as informal as making your carpool a safe space for youth to share their stories and emotions.
Watch and share the highlight clips from the episode below!