Join Fred Ward in this compelling episode of 'Count Time' as we step into 2026 with a powerful New Year's discussion. Fred hosts his esteemed colleague Tancred Jones, who brings a treasure trove of history and insight into the challenges faced by individuals with felony records. Tan shares his journey from the medical field to the restaurant industry, shedding light on the harsh realities of 'collateral sanctions' and their lasting impact on career opportunities. Dive into an authentic conversation about resilience, community support, and the fight for policy change. This isn't just another podcast—it's a movement to uplift and inspire. Don't miss Tan's advice on building successful businesses and the heartfelt mission to change perceptions and laws affecting directly impacted individuals.

00:00 Introduction and New Year's Greetings
00:38 Introducing Tancred Jones
02:00 The Purpose of Count Time Podcast
04:06 Tan's Consulting Business
05:48 Developing People, Not Managing Them
08:39 Tan's Journey into the Medical Field
11:59 Barriers and Collateral Sanctions
17:31 Discussion on Criminal Justice and Recidivism
21:00 Introduction of the New Interviewer
21:02 From Treachery to Transformation
21:34 Realizations and Reflections
22:41 Survivor's Remorse and Redemption
23:34 The Journey of Healing and Helping Others
24:35 Philosophical Insights and Personal Growth
27:52 Steps to Self-Improvement
34:38 Challenges and Systemic Issues
40:11 Conclusion and Call to Action

Fred Ward hosts another insightful episode of the Count Time Now podcast, reflecting on the impactful year of 2025. Fred highlights major milestones like the successful Count Time convening attended by over 500 people, legislation passed for women's hygiene products in prisons, and initiatives focused on reducing violence and improving housing in Ohio communities. He celebrates the stories of directly impacted individuals and advocates for continued collective action. The episode underscores the importance of voting, community building, and persistent efforts to combat systemic injustices. Join Fred as he discusses the journey ahead and calls for more people to get involved in 2026.

00:00 Introduction and Reflections on 2025
00:48 Count Time Convening and Community Building
01:32 Expanding the Film Movement
01:51 Redefining 'Directly Impacted'
03:10 Legislative Successes and Advocacy
04:32 Addressing Collateral Sanctions
05:54 Community Engagement in Glenville
07:48 Lead-Free Housing Initiatives
09:04 Economic Investments and Local Heroes
10:27 Welcoming Home Community Members
13:06 Launching the Podcast: Count Time Now
15:18 The Lynch Amongst Us: A Powerful Play
18:57 Call to Action and Acknowledgements
23:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In today’s episode of 'Count Time Now, host Fred Ward sits down with Dante Ferguson, also known as Iceberg Ferg, to discuss his remarkable transformation from a gang leader to a youth violence intervention advocate. They delve into their initial meeting, Dante's challenging past and gang affiliations, and the profound personal growth he has undergone over the years. Dante shares his harrowing experiences, the adverse childhood events that shaped his life, and his newfound mission to guide at-risk youth away from a path of violence. The conversation also introduces an innovative curriculum, ACE to ACEs, aimed at addressing adverse childhood experiences and reshaping young lives.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:44 First Meeting and Initial Impressions

01:47 Challenges in Violence Intervention Work

02:38 Gang Affiliation and Its Impact

04:12 Growth and Transformation

06:05 Adverse Childhood Experiences

07:42 The Making of Iceberg Ferg

12:04 Reformation and Realizations

15:32 Understanding the Impact of Trauma

16:48 A Life-Changing Experience

16:59 The Turning Point

17:45 A New Perspective on Life

18:46 Introducing the ACE to ACEs Curriculum

20:31 Personal Reflections on Adverse Childhood Experiences

22:27 The Reality of Trauma

24:50 The Path to Transformation

27:36 A Message of Hope and Dedication