Episode 18 - Aaron Pettes - Finding Faith in the Darkness

In this episode of the Peaceful Prisons podcast, host Baylen Parada and co-host Abbe Marten engage in a profound conversation with Aaron Pettes, Reentry Manager at RISE, who shares his journey from a troubled childhood marked by racial identity struggles to a life of crime and eventual redemption through spirituality. Aaron recounts his experiences growing up in a predominantly white neighborhood, the impact of losing friends to violence, and his time in prison, where he found faith and purpose. His story highlights the complexities of identity, the consequences of choices, and the transformative power of spirituality. In this conversation, Aaron Pettes shares his transformative journey from incarceration to becoming a reentry manager, emphasizing the importance of community support and transformative programs in reducing recidivism. He discusses the challenges faced during his time in prison, the hope he found through mentorship, and the impact of programs designed to help individuals reintegrate into society. Aaron highlights the significance of building a new identity and the power of community in fostering personal growth and change.