Before There Are Crimes: Childhood Trauma And Juvenile Justice | With Wendy Smith

Most people think kids who commit violent crimes are just “bad seeds” – but the truth is far more complex and rooted in childhood trauma, foster care, and survival. In this in‑depth conversation, Michael Unbroken sits down with Wendy B. Smith, author of Before There Are Crimes, to explore what really leads young people into juvenile justice and adult prison. You’ll learn how traumatic childhoods, unsafe neighborhoods, hunger, and constant exposure to violence shape a child’s brain and decision‑making long before a crime is ever committed. Wendy shares research and real stories from former juvenile offenders so you can understand the hidden factors behind youth crime, recidivism, and why punishment without healing doesn’t work. If you work in mental health, foster care, juvenile justice – or you grew up in chaos yourself – this episode will challenge the myths about “criminal kids” and show why early support and trauma‑informed care matter. Timestamps: 00:00 Why we misunderstand people who commit crimes 02:00 Wendy B. Smith on Before There Are Crimes 05:00 What every juvenile offender had in common in childhood 10:00 Foster care, trauma, and the path to prison 20:00 How chronic stress rewires kids’ brains 30:00 Why many youth end up in adult prison anyway Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy