https://simplecast.com College Unbound Podcast: WeCu Stories Unbound The College Unbound Podcast, dives deep into the transformative work of our community—transforming self, communities, justice, and education. We’re here to break down barriers and build up new possibilities. This is a platform for learning, a platform for healing, a platform for belonging and connection. 2025 en Thu, 26 Mar 2026 14:16:34 +0000 Thu, 26 Mar 2026 14:32:16 +0000 https://college-unbound-podcast-wecu-stories-unbound.simplecast.com College Unbound Podcast: WeCu Stories Unbound https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/fb56100a-04b5-4a45-bc1d-b1c02e24cddc/a5a595fa-4470-4c00-b820-ccc46baffe15/3000x3000/cu-20stacked-20words-20podcast-20logo.jpg?aid=rss_feed https://college-unbound-podcast-wecu-stories-unbound.simplecast.com episodic The College Unbound Podcast, dives deep into the transformative work of our community—transforming self, communities, justice, and education. We’re here to break down barriers and build up new possibilities. This is a platform for learning, a platform for healing, a platform for belonging and connection. College Unbound false https://feeds.simplecast.com/nnWJcpzJ college unbound, education, healing, higher ed, life long learning, transformation College Unbound amanda.esons@collegeunbound.edu f798998c-78a4-49fa-8452-3f03501d85f8 We CU Stories Unbound Episode 11: How We Find Light at The End of The Tunnel In this heartfelt exchange, CU students Rebecca Ipina and Lisandra Salas and VP of Community and belonging Jose Rodriguez, share their personal journeys through "heaviness," ranging from childhood trauma and custody battles to the loss of a child. They identify a shared struggle with opening up due to fears of judgment, isolation, or just not being understood. A central theme emerges among them around the power of purpose and community, particularly their supportive environment at CU, which serves as an anchor for their resilience. Ultimately, they show that even in difficult times, small moments of light and connection can help transform pain into strength and hope.

Resources

Specific situation:

Grief support groups (local hospitals, churches, or community centers)

Domestic violence help: National Domestic Violence Hotline – 1-800-799-7233

Youth support: Teen Line

Finding Light in Tough Times – Support Resources. If you’re struggling, you’re not alone. Help is available:


 

📞

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 (24/7 support)

💬

Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741

🤝

NAMI – Support groups & resources (nami.org)

🧠

Psychology Today – Find a therapist near you

💻

7 Cups – Free, anonymous support online


 

✨

Healing can start small—through talking, creating, praying, or reaching out. You don’t have to go through it alone.

]]> Thu, 26 Mar 2026 14:16:34 +0000 amanda.esons@collegeunbound.edu (Hosted by Rebecca Ipina, Guests Jose Rodriguez and Lisandra Salas, Intro By De'Vonte Parson, Music produced by David Dvalor Valerio, Production and editing Amanda Esons) https://college-unbound-podcast-wecu-stories-unbound.simplecast.com/episodes/we-cu-stories-unbound-episode-11-how-we-find-light-at-the-end-of-the-tunnel-Jn0D2_jV In this heartfelt exchange, CU students Rebecca Ipina and Lisandra Salas and VP of Community and belonging Jose Rodriguez, share their personal journeys through "heaviness," ranging from childhood trauma and custody battles to the loss of a child. They identify a shared struggle with opening up due to fears of judgment, isolation, or just not being understood. A central theme emerges among them around the power of purpose and community, particularly their supportive environment at CU, which serves as an anchor for their resilience. Ultimately, they show that even in difficult times, small moments of light and connection can help transform pain into strength and hope.

Resources

Specific situation:

Grief support groups (local hospitals, churches, or community centers)

Domestic violence help: National Domestic Violence Hotline – 1-800-799-7233

Youth support: Teen Line

Finding Light in Tough Times – Support Resources. If you’re struggling, you’re not alone. Help is available:


 

📞

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 (24/7 support)

💬

Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741

🤝

NAMI – Support groups & resources (nami.org)

🧠

Psychology Today – Find a therapist near you

💻

7 Cups – Free, anonymous support online


 

✨

Healing can start small—through talking, creating, praying, or reaching out. You don’t have to go through it alone.

]]> We CU Stories Unbound Episode 11: How We Find Light at The End of The Tunnel Hosted by Rebecca Ipina, Guests Jose Rodriguez and Lisandra Salas, Intro By De'Vonte Parson, Music produced by David Dvalor Valerio, Production and editing Amanda Esons 00:35:36 In this heartfelt exchange, CU students Rebecca Ipina and Lisandra Salas and VP of Community and belonging Jose Rodriguez, share their personal journeys through "heaviness," ranging from childhood trauma and custody battles to the loss of a child. They identify a shared struggle with opening up due to fears of judgment, isolation, or just not being understood. A central theme emerges among them around the power of purpose and community, particularly their supportive environment at CU, which serves as an anchor for their resilience. Ultimately, they show that even in difficult times, small moments of light and connection can help transform pain into strength and hope. In this heartfelt exchange, CU students Rebecca Ipina and Lisandra Salas and VP of Community and belonging Jose Rodriguez, share their personal journeys through "heaviness," ranging from childhood trauma and custody battles to the loss of a child. They identify a shared struggle with opening up due to fears of judgment, isolation, or just not being understood. A central theme emerges among them around the power of purpose and community, particularly their supportive environment at CU, which serves as an anchor for their resilience. Ultimately, they show that even in difficult times, small moments of light and connection can help transform pain into strength and hope. false full 11 d05c7796-e97e-4e8a-8a56-a85a8a6c6243 We CU Stories Unbound Episode 10: Peace in Each Breath: A CU Father and Daughter Community Project Video for Breath created by Safiro and Eliezer Velez.https://drive.google.com/file/d/1CH7JefTBh0iXbqtHe51_BWziHqqTdlRP/view?usp=sharing

Resources

Specific situation:

Grief support groups (local hospitals, churches, or community centers)

Domestic violence help: National Domestic Violence Hotline – 1-800-799-7233

Youth support: Teen Line

Finding Light in Tough Times – Support Resources. If you’re struggling, you’re not alone. Help is available:


 

📞

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 (24/7 support)

💬

Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741

🤝

NAMI – Support groups & resources (nami.org)

🧠

Psychology Today – Find a therapist near you

💻

7 Cups – Free, anonymous support online


 

✨

Healing can start small—through talking, creating, praying, or reaching out. You don’t have to go through it alone.

]]> Thu, 22 Jan 2026 13:59:55 +0000 amanda.esons@collegeunbound.edu (Guests Safiro Velez and Eliezer Velez, Hosted by Amanda Esons, Music produced by David Dvalor Valerio, Intro By De'Vonte Parson, Production and editing Amanda Esons) https://college-unbound-podcast-wecu-stories-unbound.simplecast.com/episodes/we-cu-stories-unbound-episode-10-peace-in-each-breath-a-cu-father-and-daughter-community-proect-X_I83cCp Video for Breath created by Safiro and Eliezer Velez.https://drive.google.com/file/d/1CH7JefTBh0iXbqtHe51_BWziHqqTdlRP/view?usp=sharing

Resources

Specific situation:

Grief support groups (local hospitals, churches, or community centers)

Domestic violence help: National Domestic Violence Hotline – 1-800-799-7233

Youth support: Teen Line

Finding Light in Tough Times – Support Resources. If you’re struggling, you’re not alone. Help is available:


 

📞

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 (24/7 support)

💬

Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741

🤝

NAMI – Support groups & resources (nami.org)

🧠

Psychology Today – Find a therapist near you

💻

7 Cups – Free, anonymous support online


 

✨

Healing can start small—through talking, creating, praying, or reaching out. You don’t have to go through it alone.

]]> We CU Stories Unbound Episode 10: Peace in Each Breath: A CU Father and Daughter Community Project Guests Safiro Velez and Eliezer Velez, Hosted by Amanda Esons, Music produced by David Dvalor Valerio, Intro By De'Vonte Parson, Production and editing Amanda Esons 01:12:23 In this episode of We CU Stories Unbound, CU Students Safiro and Eliezer Velez reflect on how an honest conversation between Daughter and Father, led to an unexpected collaboration—and a deeper understanding of stress, care, and connection. As they talk openly about hustle culture, burnout, and mental health, a simple but powerful realization emerges: slowing down can be life-changing. Their core project, Breathe, grew out of honest conversations, moments of pause, and a desire to create space for others to step out of constant urgency. This episode explores how choosing to breathe can restore balance, strengthen relationships, and ripple outward into families and communities. Ending with an invitation to join in on their weekly podcast Breathe. In this episode of We CU Stories Unbound, CU Students Safiro and Eliezer Velez reflect on how an honest conversation between Daughter and Father, led to an unexpected collaboration—and a deeper understanding of stress, care, and connection. As they talk openly about hustle culture, burnout, and mental health, a simple but powerful realization emerges: slowing down can be life-changing. Their core project, Breathe, grew out of honest conversations, moments of pause, and a desire to create space for others to step out of constant urgency. This episode explores how choosing to breathe can restore balance, strengthen relationships, and ripple outward into families and communities. Ending with an invitation to join in on their weekly podcast Breathe. false full 10 833d8058-f9f3-495b-8cd6-bdb8abd81412 We CU Stories Unbound Episode 9: Mother Son Learning Journey: Two Paths One Legacy Fri, 21 Nov 2025 19:54:26 +0000 amanda.esons@collegeunbound.edu (Justin Luna, Music produced by David Dvalor Valerio, Editing and production Amanda Esons, Intro DeVonte Parson, Deb Jonfelix) https://college-unbound-podcast-wecu-stories-unbound.simplecast.com/episodes/mother-son-learning-journey-two-paths-one-legacy-ygK9dH6n We CU Stories Unbound Episode 9: Mother Son Learning Journey: Two Paths One Legacy Justin Luna, Music produced by David Dvalor Valerio, Editing and production Amanda Esons, Intro DeVonte Parson, Deb Jonfelix 00:40:47 In this episode, College Unbound alum and core staff, Debra Jonfelix sits down with her oldest son, Justin Luna, now a CU student himself. What begins as a rare mother–son conversation grows into a powerful reflection on returning to college, navigating past setbacks, and finding the right educational fit as adults. Debra shares how completing her degree brought healing and new opportunities, while Justin describes connecting with CU unexpectedly through his children’s school and finally seeing a path to finish what he started. Together, they explore family legacy, motivation, and the impact of education across generations—highlighting how College Unbound meets learners where they are and helps them thrive. In this episode, College Unbound alum and core staff, Debra Jonfelix sits down with her oldest son, Justin Luna, now a CU student himself. What begins as a rare mother–son conversation grows into a powerful reflection on returning to college, navigating past setbacks, and finding the right educational fit as adults. Debra shares how completing her degree brought healing and new opportunities, while Justin describes connecting with CU unexpectedly through his children’s school and finally seeing a path to finish what he started. Together, they explore family legacy, motivation, and the impact of education across generations—highlighting how College Unbound meets learners where they are and helps them thrive. false full 9 91f39649-de3f-4c41-bc7b-b0cd12e4da79 We CU Stories Unbound Episode 8: Nourishing Community: Gumbo Fest 2025  

College unbound https://www.collegeunbound.edu/

The Spike Lee film Carol noted is called “When the Levees Broke”.

AKUA Productions NOLA www.akuaproductionsnola.com

Music By Carol Bebelle can be found spotify and wherever you listen to music. The featured song entitled Little pieces, is from her album Akua Medicine Bag.

Poem by Joy Harjo "Perhaps the World ends here"

 

 

 

Resources

Specific situation:

Grief support groups (local hospitals, churches, or community centers)

Domestic violence help: National Domestic Violence Hotline – 1-800-799-7233

Youth support: Teen Line

Finding Light in Tough Times – Support Resources. If you’re struggling, you’re not alone. Help is available:


 

📞

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 (24/7 support)

💬

Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741

🤝

NAMI – Support groups & resources (nami.org)

🧠

Psychology Today – Find a therapist near you

💻

7 Cups – Free, anonymous support online


 

✨

Healing can start small—through talking, creating, praying, or reaching out. You don’t have to go through it alone.

]]> Thu, 23 Oct 2025 15:57:27 +0000 amanda.esons@collegeunbound.edu (Carol Bebelle, Dr. Tia Smith, President Adam Bush, Jose Rodriguez, Jeremy Pontbriant, Wanda Brown, Chris Dickson, Amanda Esons, Finn the dog) https://college-unbound-podcast-wecu-stories-unbound.simplecast.com/episodes/nourishing-community-gumbo-fest-2025-mQ3ZTHZf  

College unbound https://www.collegeunbound.edu/

The Spike Lee film Carol noted is called “When the Levees Broke”.

AKUA Productions NOLA www.akuaproductionsnola.com

Music By Carol Bebelle can be found spotify and wherever you listen to music. The featured song entitled Little pieces, is from her album Akua Medicine Bag.

Poem by Joy Harjo "Perhaps the World ends here"

 

 

 

Resources

Specific situation:

Grief support groups (local hospitals, churches, or community centers)

Domestic violence help: National Domestic Violence Hotline – 1-800-799-7233

Youth support: Teen Line

Finding Light in Tough Times – Support Resources. If you’re struggling, you’re not alone. Help is available:


 

📞

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 (24/7 support)

💬

Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741

🤝

NAMI – Support groups & resources (nami.org)

🧠

Psychology Today – Find a therapist near you

💻

7 Cups – Free, anonymous support online


 

✨

Healing can start small—through talking, creating, praying, or reaching out. You don’t have to go through it alone.

]]> We CU Stories Unbound Episode 8: Nourishing Community: Gumbo Fest 2025 Carol Bebelle, Dr. Tia Smith, President Adam Bush, Jose Rodriguez, Jeremy Pontbriant, Wanda Brown, Chris Dickson, Amanda Esons, Finn the dog 00:58:08 In this special episode of The College Unbound Podcast, We bring the mics to President Adam Bush's kitchen. The table is full — gumbo simmering on the stove— as Carol Bebelle, co-founder of the Ashe Cultural Arts Center; Adam Bush, College Unbound’s president and co-founder; and Amanda Esons, Dr. Tia Smith; AVP Jose Rodriguez, Chris Dickson, ; Jeremy “Pontbriant; and Wanda Brown join in for a conversation about food, culture, and the roots of College Unbound. The group reflects on how the kitchen table has always been a place of nourishment — for body, mind, and spirit — and how those same values shaped College Unbound’s first New Orleans cohort in 2010. Carol shares stories of that founding moment, when artists and culture bearers came together through learning, collaboration, and care. From sharing meals to building movements, the conversation celebrates the everyday sacred — the power of coming together, listening deeply, and creating something larger than ourselves. As the group reads Joy Harjo’s “Perhaps the World Ends Here,” the message rings clear: education, like a shared meal, begins at the table — in community, in conversation, and in love. In this special episode of The College Unbound Podcast, We bring the mics to President Adam Bush's kitchen. The table is full — gumbo simmering on the stove— as Carol Bebelle, co-founder of the Ashe Cultural Arts Center; Adam Bush, College Unbound’s president and co-founder; and Amanda Esons, Dr. Tia Smith; AVP Jose Rodriguez, Chris Dickson, ; Jeremy “Pontbriant; and Wanda Brown join in for a conversation about food, culture, and the roots of College Unbound. The group reflects on how the kitchen table has always been a place of nourishment — for body, mind, and spirit — and how those same values shaped College Unbound’s first New Orleans cohort in 2010. Carol shares stories of that founding moment, when artists and culture bearers came together through learning, collaboration, and care. From sharing meals to building movements, the conversation celebrates the everyday sacred — the power of coming together, listening deeply, and creating something larger than ourselves. As the group reads Joy Harjo’s “Perhaps the World Ends Here,” the message rings clear: education, like a shared meal, begins at the table — in community, in conversation, and in love. nourishment, college unbound, community, breaking bread, gumbo fest 2025 false full 8 2ae14d01-9f30-4a4b-ba8f-718493aa5c62 We CU Stories Unbound Episode 7 Transformative Education: Conversations About Relationships, Hope, Joy, and Light Fri, 5 Sep 2025 19:52:16 +0000 amanda.esons@collegeunbound.edu (Intro By De'Vonte Parson, Guest Ayana Bass, Episode Host Aubrey Schabowsky, Music produced by David Dvalor Valerio, Production and editing Amanda Esons) https://college-unbound-podcast-wecu-stories-unbound.simplecast.com/episodes/transformative-education-conversations-about-relationship-hope-joy-and-light-CaEKfww0 We CU Stories Unbound Episode 7 Transformative Education: Conversations About Relationships, Hope, Joy, and Light Intro By De'Vonte Parson, Guest Ayana Bass, Episode Host Aubrey Schabowsky, Music produced by David Dvalor Valerio, Production and editing Amanda Esons 00:49:28 Episode 7: Transformative Education — Conversations about Relationship, Hope, Joy, and Light Episode Host and Director of CU's Transformative Education Pathway, Aubrey Schabowsky and guest and prior CU Lab Faculty Ayana Bass reflect on the origins of College Unbound’s teacher preparation work, from whiteboard sketches to the TA to BA program and today’s Transformative Education Pathway. They share stories of paraprofessionals and changemakers, the power of relationships and joy in overcoming barriers, and a vision of education that centers equity, hope, and community. 🌟 Episode 7: Transformative Education — Conversations about Relationship, Hope, Joy, and Light Episode Host and Director of CU's Transformative Education Pathway, Aubrey Schabowsky and guest and prior CU Lab Faculty Ayana Bass reflect on the origins of College Unbound’s teacher preparation work, from whiteboard sketches to the TA to BA program and today’s Transformative Education Pathway. They share stories of paraprofessionals and changemakers, the power of relationships and joy in overcoming barriers, and a vision of education that centers equity, hope, and community. 🌟 college unboud, equity institute, transformative education pathway false full 7 3e759aa6-6b41-48d6-9c9b-35bd3eacd4da We CU Stories Unbound: Episode 6 Honoring our Latina Community & Bringing Awareness to Health and Wellness In this episode of We CU Stories Unbound, host and current CU student Ruth Perez introduces her community-focused CU project: a podcast dedicated to raising awareness about health & Wellness in the Latina community and promoting sustainable, culturally aligned lifestyle changes. Inspired by her own shift to clean eating and lasting wellness, Ruth shares how guidance from her mentor, Dr. Francisco Gutierrez, helped her see the potential to help others facing similar struggles.

 

The conversation blends Ruth’s personal journey with expert insights from Dr. Gutierrez, a bilingual, board-certified internal medicine physician. Together, they discuss the cultural significance of food in Latino households, the barriers many Latina women face in achieving health goals, and the importance of bridging tradition with transformation. This episode lays the groundwork for a resource built on storytelling, practical tips, and scientific knowledge to empower women to reclaim their health while staying true to their roots.

 

Resources

Specific situation:

Grief support groups (local hospitals, churches, or community centers)

Domestic violence help: National Domestic Violence Hotline – 1-800-799-7233

Youth support: Teen Line

Finding Light in Tough Times – Support Resources. If you’re struggling, you’re not alone. Help is available:


 

📞

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 (24/7 support)

💬

Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741

🤝

NAMI – Support groups & resources (nami.org)

🧠

Psychology Today – Find a therapist near you

💻

7 Cups – Free, anonymous support online


 

✨

Healing can start small—through talking, creating, praying, or reaching out. You don’t have to go through it alone.

]]> Fri, 8 Aug 2025 16:42:12 +0000 amanda.esons@collegeunbound.edu (Hosted by Ruth Perez, Special Guest Dr. Francisco Gutierrez, Intro DeVonte Parson, Music produced by David Dvalor Valerio, Production and editing Amanda Esons) https://college-unbound-podcast-wecu-stories-unbound.simplecast.com/episodes/honoring-our-latina-community-bringing-awareness-to-health-and-wellness-Rso1dh5_ In this episode of We CU Stories Unbound, host and current CU student Ruth Perez introduces her community-focused CU project: a podcast dedicated to raising awareness about health & Wellness in the Latina community and promoting sustainable, culturally aligned lifestyle changes. Inspired by her own shift to clean eating and lasting wellness, Ruth shares how guidance from her mentor, Dr. Francisco Gutierrez, helped her see the potential to help others facing similar struggles.

 

The conversation blends Ruth’s personal journey with expert insights from Dr. Gutierrez, a bilingual, board-certified internal medicine physician. Together, they discuss the cultural significance of food in Latino households, the barriers many Latina women face in achieving health goals, and the importance of bridging tradition with transformation. This episode lays the groundwork for a resource built on storytelling, practical tips, and scientific knowledge to empower women to reclaim their health while staying true to their roots.

 

Resources

Specific situation:

Grief support groups (local hospitals, churches, or community centers)

Domestic violence help: National Domestic Violence Hotline – 1-800-799-7233

Youth support: Teen Line

Finding Light in Tough Times – Support Resources. If you’re struggling, you’re not alone. Help is available:


 

📞

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 (24/7 support)

💬

Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741

🤝

NAMI – Support groups & resources (nami.org)

🧠

Psychology Today – Find a therapist near you

💻

7 Cups – Free, anonymous support online


 

✨

Healing can start small—through talking, creating, praying, or reaching out. You don’t have to go through it alone.

]]> We CU Stories Unbound: Episode 6 Honoring our Latina Community & Bringing Awareness to Health and Wellness Hosted by Ruth Perez, Special Guest Dr. Francisco Gutierrez, Intro DeVonte Parson, Music produced by David Dvalor Valerio, Production and editing Amanda Esons 00:42:06 In this episode of We CU Stories Unbound, host and current CU student Ruth Perez introduces her community-focused CU project: a podcast dedicated to raising awareness about health & Wellness in the Latina community and promoting sustainable, culturally aligned lifestyle changes. Inspired by her own shift to clean eating and lasting wellness, Ruth shares how guidance from her mentor, Dr. Francisco Gutierrez, helped her see the potential to help others facing similar struggles. The conversation blends Ruth’s personal journey with expert insights from Dr. Gutierrez, a bilingual, board-certified internal medicine physician. Together, they discuss the cultural significance of food in Latino households, the barriers many Latina women face in achieving health goals, and the importance of bridging tradition with transformation. This episode lays the groundwork for a resource built on storytelling, practical tips, and scientific knowledge to empower women to reclaim their health while staying true to their roots. In this episode of We CU Stories Unbound, host and current CU student Ruth Perez introduces her community-focused CU project: a podcast dedicated to raising awareness about health & Wellness in the Latina community and promoting sustainable, culturally aligned lifestyle changes. Inspired by her own shift to clean eating and lasting wellness, Ruth shares how guidance from her mentor, Dr. Francisco Gutierrez, helped her see the potential to help others facing similar struggles. The conversation blends Ruth’s personal journey with expert insights from Dr. Gutierrez, a bilingual, board-certified internal medicine physician. Together, they discuss the cultural significance of food in Latino households, the barriers many Latina women face in achieving health goals, and the importance of bridging tradition with transformation. This episode lays the groundwork for a resource built on storytelling, practical tips, and scientific knowledge to empower women to reclaim their health while staying true to their roots. obesity, health & wellness, mitochondria, latina false full 6 f4494644-7a14-4956-ae4b-64ec68966db8 We CU Stories Unbound: Episode 5 Student Parent Voices; Advocacy, Challenges & Triumphs Fri, 13 Jun 2025 17:31:08 +0000 amanda.esons@collegeunbound.edu (Intro De'Vonte Parson, Episode Host Raheem Jackson, Editing and production Amanda Esons, Guests Suleima Lopes & Shanice Acevedo, Music produced by David Dvalor Valerio) https://college-unbound-podcast-wecu-stories-unbound.simplecast.com/episodes/cu-stories-unbound-episode-5-student-parent-voices-advocacy-challenges-triumphs-L4475Jdw We CU Stories Unbound: Episode 5 Student Parent Voices; Advocacy, Challenges & Triumphs Intro De'Vonte Parson, Episode Host Raheem Jackson, Editing and production Amanda Esons, Guests Suleima Lopes & Shanice Acevedo, Music produced by David Dvalor Valerio 00:53:36 In this heartfelt and empowering episode, we sit down with several inspiring student parents who candidly share their journeys of balancing education, caregiving, and personal challenges. Joining the table is: Raheem Jackson: episode host and recent Alumni, Advocate / Speaker / Fatherhood & Mens Wellness, Shanice Acevedo: Hudson County Community College, Speaker / Student Parent Advocate Suleima Lopes: College Unbound student, Workshop Host / Speaker / Advocate Through their stories, we uncover the depth and diversity of what it means to be a student parent—and why redefining that term and meeting student parents where they are is essential. In this heartfelt and empowering episode, we sit down with several inspiring student parents who candidly share their journeys of balancing education, caregiving, and personal challenges. Joining the table is: Raheem Jackson: episode host and recent Alumni, Advocate / Speaker / Fatherhood & Mens Wellness, Shanice Acevedo: Hudson County Community College, Speaker / Student Parent Advocate Suleima Lopes: College Unbound student, Workshop Host / Speaker / Advocate Through their stories, we uncover the depth and diversity of what it means to be a student parent—and why redefining that term and meeting student parents where they are is essential. false full 5 6701f4bc-ab2b-4944-94cd-68f2bbb688ed We CU Stories Unbound: Episode 4 Disability Justice and Representation Wed, 14 May 2025 18:41:15 +0000 amanda.esons@collegeunbound.edu (Hosted by Autumn Johnson, Guests Kristy Raymond Autumn Johnson and Jabraya Tanksley, Produced by Amanda Esons, De'Vonte parson, Music produced by David Dvalor Valerio) https://college-unbound-podcast-wecu-stories-unbound.simplecast.com/episodes/we-cu-unbound-stories-episode-4-disability-justice-and-representation-MniayM9A We CU Stories Unbound: Episode 4 Disability Justice and Representation Hosted by Autumn Johnson, Guests Kristy Raymond Autumn Johnson and Jabraya Tanksley, Produced by Amanda Esons, De'Vonte parson, Music produced by David Dvalor Valerio 00:47:25 In this episode CU student and Disability Justice advocate Autumn Johnson brings special guests Kristy Raymond Founder/Casting Strategist YouAreHumankind, Lizz Colon Director of Learning in Public/Instructional Faculty College Unbound, and Jabraya Tanksley CU Student, Disability Justice Advocate and Educator to the table for a discussion that explores the ripple effect of representation, disability justice, and how solidarity within and beyond the disability community is essential for true social change. If you’ve ever questioned the future of inclusive education, this episode will show you what’s possible when we stop asking “why” and start asking, “how can we help?” In this episode CU student and Disability Justice advocate Autumn Johnson brings special guests Kristy Raymond Founder/Casting Strategist YouAreHumankind, Lizz Colon Director of Learning in Public/Instructional Faculty College Unbound, and Jabraya Tanksley CU Student, Disability Justice Advocate and Educator to the table for a discussion that explores the ripple effect of representation, disability justice, and how solidarity within and beyond the disability community is essential for true social change. If you’ve ever questioned the future of inclusive education, this episode will show you what’s possible when we stop asking “why” and start asking, “how can we help?” false full 4 df992bcc-b7e4-4843-bdbd-ba8e8767bd3a We CU Stories Unbound: Episode 3 Proximity and Change Part 2 of Ten Years of Prison Education Program Who Pays? The True Cost of Incarceration on Families. A National Community Driven Report led by Ella Baker Center for Human Rights, Forward Together, and Research Action Design September 2015

Freedom Starts With Connection

By Mario Monteiro, Kyle Campbell, and Steven Parkhurst

Resources

Specific situation:

Grief support groups (local hospitals, churches, or community centers)

Domestic violence help: National Domestic Violence Hotline – 1-800-799-7233

Youth support: Teen Line

Finding Light in Tough Times – Support Resources. If you’re struggling, you’re not alone. Help is available:


 

📞

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 (24/7 support)

💬

Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741

🤝

NAMI – Support groups & resources (nami.org)

🧠

Psychology Today – Find a therapist near you

💻

7 Cups – Free, anonymous support online


 

✨

Healing can start small—through talking, creating, praying, or reaching out. You don’t have to go through it alone.

]]> Tue, 8 Apr 2025 15:00:58 +0000 amanda.esons@collegeunbound.edu (Guests Chris Dickson and Kyle Campbell, Intro De'Vonte Parson, Music Produced by David Dvalor Valerio, Production Amanda Esons) https://college-unbound-podcast-wecu-stories-unbound.simplecast.com/episodes/we-cu-unbound-stories-episode-3-proximity-and-change-part-2-of-ten-years-of-prison-education-program-QIZ5iT5Q Who Pays? The True Cost of Incarceration on Families. A National Community Driven Report led by Ella Baker Center for Human Rights, Forward Together, and Research Action Design September 2015

Freedom Starts With Connection

By Mario Monteiro, Kyle Campbell, and Steven Parkhurst

Resources

Specific situation:

Grief support groups (local hospitals, churches, or community centers)

Domestic violence help: National Domestic Violence Hotline – 1-800-799-7233

Youth support: Teen Line

Finding Light in Tough Times – Support Resources. If you’re struggling, you’re not alone. Help is available:


 

📞

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 (24/7 support)

💬

Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741

🤝

NAMI – Support groups & resources (nami.org)

🧠

Psychology Today – Find a therapist near you

💻

7 Cups – Free, anonymous support online


 

✨

Healing can start small—through talking, creating, praying, or reaching out. You don’t have to go through it alone.

]]> We CU Stories Unbound: Episode 3 Proximity and Change Part 2 of Ten Years of Prison Education Program Guests Chris Dickson and Kyle Campbell, Intro De'Vonte Parson, Music Produced by David Dvalor Valerio, Production Amanda Esons 00:50:04 In this episode, Assistant Dean of Student Success Chris Dickson and alum, writer, justice work advocate, co-founder RI Freedom Collective and graduate student of Masters in Urban Education, Kyle Campbell dive into their shared journey in education, reflecting on their first meeting in a classroom and the evolution of their views on learning. They explore the idea of disrupting traditional educational hierarchies—challenging the roles of professors, students, and learners—and what it truly means to learn together. The conversation also delves into trauma responses, particularly in the context of social media, and how these responses impact how individuals, especially young people, navigate difficult situations. Kyle highlights the significance of recognizing trauma responses—fight, flight, freeze, and the newly identified "fine" response—as a tool for better handling life's challenges. This episode offers insightful reflections on the intersection of education, personal growth, family, and community, and how these elements shape our life journeys. In this episode, Assistant Dean of Student Success Chris Dickson and alum, writer, justice work advocate, co-founder RI Freedom Collective and graduate student of Masters in Urban Education, Kyle Campbell dive into their shared journey in education, reflecting on their first meeting in a classroom and the evolution of their views on learning. They explore the idea of disrupting traditional educational hierarchies—challenging the roles of professors, students, and learners—and what it truly means to learn together. The conversation also delves into trauma responses, particularly in the context of social media, and how these responses impact how individuals, especially young people, navigate difficult situations. Kyle highlights the significance of recognizing trauma responses—fight, flight, freeze, and the newly identified "fine" response—as a tool for better handling life's challenges. This episode offers insightful reflections on the intersection of education, personal growth, family, and community, and how these elements shape our life journeys. false full 3 60113fdc-0e71-4c8c-bf92-708e1967a83e We CU Stories Unbound: Episode 2 Ten Years of the Prison Education Program at CU Book mentioned: What it takes to Heal:How Transforming ourselves can change the World by Prentice Hemphill

Resources

Specific situation:

Grief support groups (local hospitals, churches, or community centers)

Domestic violence help: National Domestic Violence Hotline – 1-800-799-7233

Youth support: Teen Line

Finding Light in Tough Times – Support Resources. If you’re struggling, you’re not alone. Help is available:


 

📞

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 (24/7 support)

💬

Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741

🤝

NAMI – Support groups & resources (nami.org)

🧠

Psychology Today – Find a therapist near you

💻

7 Cups – Free, anonymous support online


 

✨

Healing can start small—through talking, creating, praying, or reaching out. You don’t have to go through it alone.

]]> Wed, 5 Mar 2025 20:09:10 +0000 amanda.esons@collegeunbound.edu (Special guests Jose Rodriguez, Wanda Brown, Bonnie Clarke, Deb Jonfelix, Chris Dickson, Hosted by De'Vonte Parson, Amanda Esons editing and production, Music produced by David "Dvalor" Valerio) https://college-unbound-podcast-wecu-stories-unbound.simplecast.com/episodes/we-cu-unbound-stories-episode-2-10-years-of-the-prison-education-program-at-cu-aLBr44Tz Book mentioned: What it takes to Heal:How Transforming ourselves can change the World by Prentice Hemphill

Resources

Specific situation:

Grief support groups (local hospitals, churches, or community centers)

Domestic violence help: National Domestic Violence Hotline – 1-800-799-7233

Youth support: Teen Line

Finding Light in Tough Times – Support Resources. If you’re struggling, you’re not alone. Help is available:


 

📞

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text 988 (24/7 support)

💬

Crisis Text Line – Text HOME to 741741

🤝

NAMI – Support groups & resources (nami.org)

🧠

Psychology Today – Find a therapist near you

💻

7 Cups – Free, anonymous support online


 

✨

Healing can start small—through talking, creating, praying, or reaching out. You don’t have to go through it alone.

]]> We CU Stories Unbound: Episode 2 Ten Years of the Prison Education Program at CU Special guests Jose Rodriguez, Wanda Brown, Bonnie Clarke, Deb Jonfelix, Chris Dickson, Hosted by De'Vonte Parson, Amanda Esons editing and production, Music produced by David "Dvalor" Valerio 00:54:16 In this episode of We CU Unbound Stories host De’Vonte Parson is joined by CU’s Prison Education Program team AVP Jose Rodriguez, Bonnie Clarke, Wanda Brown, Chris Dickson and Deb Jonfelix to lift up the 10 year anniversary of this work and discuss what it means to be resilient. In this episode of We CU Unbound Stories host De’Vonte Parson is joined by CU’s Prison Education Program team AVP Jose Rodriguez, Bonnie Clarke, Wanda Brown, Chris Dickson and Deb Jonfelix to lift up the 10 year anniversary of this work and discuss what it means to be resilient. college unbound, resilience, prison education false full 2 c9f05ffc-7141-4a92-b25c-4f81efcfd57f We CU Stories Unbound: Episode 1 Finding Community Tue, 4 Feb 2025 18:30:17 +0000 amanda.esons@collegeunbound.edu (Hosted by De'Vonte Parson, Music produced by David "Dvalor" Valerio, Edited and produced by Amanda Esons, Production support and creative contributor Deb Jonfelix, Guest and creative contributor Aubrey Johnson, Guest Vera Epps, Guest Christopher Senice, Guest Jarvis Henderson, Lit Arts Recording Studio, Art Hanna Lichtenstein) https://college-unbound-podcast-wecu-stories-unbound.simplecast.com/episodes/we-cu-unbound-stories-episode-1-finding-community-MWIGA1oy We CU Stories Unbound: Episode 1 Finding Community Hosted by De'Vonte Parson, Music produced by David "Dvalor" Valerio, Edited and produced by Amanda Esons, Production support and creative contributor Deb Jonfelix, Guest and creative contributor Aubrey Johnson, Guest Vera Epps, Guest Christopher Senice, Guest Jarvis Henderson, Lit Arts Recording Studio, Art Hanna Lichtenstein 00:48:18 In this episode of WE CU Unbound Stories, host De'Vonte Parson sits down with CU students Vera Epps, Christopher Senice, Jarvis Henderson, Aubrey Johnson, and alum/community ambassador Deb Jonfelix for an insightful conversation about the power of community. They share personal stories about how community has shaped their lives and supported their educational journeys. From what a healthy community looks and feels like, to how they each actively contribute to building it, this episode is a deep dive into the importance of connection, support, and giving back. Tune in to hear how these College Unbound voices define community and show up to support positive change. In this episode of WE CU Unbound Stories, host De'Vonte Parson sits down with CU students Vera Epps, Christopher Senice, Jarvis Henderson, Aubrey Johnson, and alum/community ambassador Deb Jonfelix for an insightful conversation about the power of community. They share personal stories about how community has shaped their lives and supported their educational journeys. From what a healthy community looks and feels like, to how they each actively contribute to building it, this episode is a deep dive into the importance of connection, support, and giving back. Tune in to hear how these College Unbound voices define community and show up to support positive change. college unboud, life long learning, cu, belonging, community, higher education, justice false full 1