Episode 2: Stacy McGinnis || What I Know Now - A Delta Project Podcast

In this riveting episode of "What I Know Now: A Delta Project Podcast," our hosts, Cole and Joel, sit down with the esteemed Stacy McGinnis, a retired superintendent of the juvenile Detention center in Grand Rapids with over 30 years of experience in the juvenile justice system. Strap in as Stacy takes us on an eye-opening journey, shedding light on her groundbreaking residential program, the Delta Project. As Stacy's observations of children being placed in distant facilities with little to no behavioral improvement troubled her, she became determined to chart a different path. Join us as we delve into the core concept behind the Delta program - impacting young people during their time in the facility and assisting in successfully reintegrating them into their communities. Prepare to have your perspective shifted as Stacy passionately reminds us that the young people in her facility are simply kids who made poor decisions. She paints a vivid picture of them engaging in typical kid activities, emphasizing the importance of empathy and meeting them where they are. But don't think Stacy shies away from the tough questions. She acknowledges the challenge of showing empathy while considering the victims involved, but emphatically stresses the need to look beyond the charges and focus on the genuine needs of these young individuals. As our conversation unfolds, we explore the intricacies of Stacy's journey, from her initial switch from business to criminal justice, to her various roles within the court system. We also touch on her unique parenting experiences and how they shaped her approach to working with young people. Highlighting the significance of investment in the youth, Stacy advocates for diverting funds towards prevention and initial involvement with the system. She shares heartwarming stories of impactful relationships and encourages listeners to plant seeds of hope in the lives of these young souls. Join us for an emotional rollercoaster as we hear the inspiring story of a young man who entered detention at a tender age, charged with a horrifying crime. Through empathy and understanding, his narrative unfolds, showcasing the power of relationships built within the system to save lives and foster transformation. We conclude this episode with a call to action for society at large. Stacy urges us to invest in after-school programs, expose kids to new experiences, and provide parenting components within treatment programs to drive lasting change. Don't miss this thought-provoking episode filled with powerful stories, insightful perspectives, and a passionate plea for a brighter future for our nation's youth. Tune in as Stacy McGinnis shares her invaluable wisdom on "What I Know Now: The Delta Project Podcast." Timestamp Overview 00:01:41 Stacey is an expert on juvenile justice. 00:04:12 Met university VP, shadowed judge, worked 30 years. 00:08:22 Kids moved far from parents, no change, waitlist. Residency program helps reintegrate community. 00:13:28 Did we make the right choices for this child? 00:16:32 Traumatized kids separated from parents, low education. 00:19:22 Media attention on young murderer leads to empathy. 00:24:16 Be proactive, invest in kids for positive change. 00:28:38 North Star: Becoming what I don't see. 00:31:54 Reframe kids at risk as potential leaders. 00:33:22 Invest in kids, address issues, be proactive. 00:38:56 Thanks, Stacey, for trusting my idea and allowing community involvement in the Delta Project, which elevates stories from behind bars and impacts our children. 00:39:49 Much appreciation for all of you.