Forgiven AF

At 17 years old, Mike Osby was sentenced to 50 years in prison.In this episode, Mike breaks down the choices that put him behind bars, the transformation that happened while he was there, and what it took to rebuild his life after prison.Today, he’s a boxing coach and mentor, going back into the same streets that once consumed him to help other men find a way out.This is a story about consequences, redemption, and turning pain into purpose.🔥 If you believe people are more than their worst mistake, this episode is for you.🎧 Tap play. Hear Mike’s story. Share it with somebody who needs to know it’s never too late to change.Follow the Forgiven AF Podcast, leave us a review, and help us keep spreading stories of redemption, second chances, and real transformation.

Ladarius Bascom is back — and a lot has changed since the last time we sat down.Ladarius first joined me way back in the early seasons of the podcast. Since then, he’s taken his online training business around the world, spending time in Colombia and Thailand before recently making his way back to the United States.In this episode, we catch up on everything he’s experienced along the way — from the completely different lifestyle and culture in Thailand to building a business that gives him the freedom to work from anywhere.We also get into how Ladarius has turned social media into real income and opportunities. One of the biggest takeaways? Sometimes you just have to shoot your shot. He talks about reaching out to brands, companies, and platforms — sending message after message, knowing most might go unanswered, but understanding that the right “yes” can change everything.We talk online training, sponsorships, social media, traveling the world, taking chances, and creating opportunities instead of waiting for them.If you’ve ever wondered what could happen if you stopped overthinking and just started putting yourself out there, this one’s for you.

Success isn’t built by accident. It’s built by intention.In this episode of the Forgiven AF Podcast, I sat down with Preston Woody to discuss what separates men who drift through life from those who lead with purpose.As a former pastor and now a business coach, Preston shares lessons on optimizing every area of life—from business and leadership to faith, marriage, and personal growth.This conversation will challenge you to raise your standards and become the man God created you to be.Watch the full episode and share it with someone who’s committed to growth.

🎙️ New Forgiven AF Podcast EpisodeI sat down with Tyler Osborne, financial advisor to professional athletes, for a conversation that applies whether you’re building a business, rebuilding your life after prison, or simply trying to create a better future.We talk about mentorship, financial stewardship, wealth-building, and the mindset needed to break cycles and build a legacy. Success isn’t just about making money—it’s about making wise decisions, surrounding yourself with the right people, and staying committed to growth.If you’re an entrepreneur, an inmate preparing for release, or someone looking for practical wisdom on life and finances, this episode is for you.🎧 Tune in and let us know your biggest takeaway.#ForgivenAF #SecondChances #Entrepreneurship #FinancialFreedom #Mentorship #PrisonReform #Reentry #LegacyBuilding #FaithAndBusiness

In this episode of Forgiven AF, I sit down once again with my friend and mentor, Jay Dan Gumm, founder of Forgiven Felons, host of The Background Check podcast, and one of the most respected voices in the prison and reentry community.Years ago, Jay Dan gave me an opportunity to share my story on his podcast when I was just getting started. Being one of his early guests gave me the confidence to launch Forgiven AF, and I’m grateful for the impact he’s had on my journey.This episode is a simple but powerful check-in conversation. We talk about what’s been happening in our lives, ministries, businesses, and missions since we last connected. From helping men transition from prison through his halfway house and reentry programs to what’s next for Forgiven Felons, Jay Dan shares encouragement, wisdom, and insight from the front lines of second chances.Whether you’re currently incarcerated, recently released, supporting someone in reentry, or simply looking for inspiration, this conversation is a reminder that your past doesn’t have to determine your future.What’s new? What’s next? And what does it look like to keep moving forward with purpose? Tune in and find out.

In this powerful episode of Forgiven AF, Shawn sits down with Alex Loredo, a fellow roofing company owner, husband, father, and man who understands what it means to get a second chance. Alex shares his journey from spending seven years in prison—from age 18 to 25—to building a successful business, a strong marriage, and a life centered on faith and purpose.Together, Shawn and Alex have an honest conversation about fatherhood, marriage, self-forgiveness, and the lasting impact of the choices we make when we’re young. Alex opens up about finding God while sitting alone in solitary confinement, the lessons he learned behind bars, and how those experiences shaped the husband, father, and leader he is today.This episode is for anyone struggling to forgive themselves, rebuild after failure, or become the person God created them to be. It’s a conversation about redemption, responsibility, faith, and proving that your past doesn’t have to determine your future.Topics Covered:-Finding God in solitary confinement-Life after prison-Building a roofing business from the ground up-Marriage after hardship-Becoming the father your kids deserve-Self-forgiveness and healing from the past-How faith changes everythingA raw, honest, and inspiring conversation about second chances and the power of God’s grace.

How do you know if a decision is truly God’s will—or just something you want for yourself?In this powerful episode of Forgiven AF, Shawn sits down with Paul Facchina Jr., a board member for 2nd Chance Mentors, to discuss one of the hardest challenges people face in their faith journey: waiting on God.Together, they explore the tension between pursuing opportunities and trusting God’s timing, how to recognize the difference between God’s direction and personal desire, and what to do when you’re faced with major life decisions. Paul shares practical wisdom, biblical insight, and personal experiences that have helped him navigate uncertainty while remaining faithful to God’s plan.Whether you’re considering a new career, relationship, business venture, ministry opportunity, or simply seeking clarity for your next step, this conversation will encourage you to slow down, seek God first, and trust that His timing is always better than our own.Topics Covered:* Why waiting on God is so difficult* How to discern God’s voice from your own desires* Signs a decision may or may not be God’s will* Finding peace in uncertainty* Trusting God’s timing when answers seem delayed* Faith, patience, and obedience in everyday lifeIf you’ve ever asked, “God, is this really what You want for me?” this episode is for you.

In this episode of Forgiven AF, Warren McKamey Jr. shares his incredible journey from growing up in Waco, Texas with limited opportunities to becoming a self-made millionaire and successful entrepreneur.After joining the military, Warren learned the discipline, work ethic, and mindset that would completely change the direction of his life. Those lessons became the foundation for building multiple businesses and creating success far beyond what most people expected from his circumstances.This conversation is a powerful reminder that your past does not define your future. No matter where you come from, what obstacles you faced, or how you were raised — you have the ability to choose your path and create a different life.If you’ve ever felt stuck, overlooked, or counted out, this episode is for you.🎙️ Watch now and hear how discipline, faith, and perseverance can change everything.

I sat down with Geoff Barker, and this one’s real. He went from fame, money, and atheism to addiction, depression, and rock bottom—then had a life-changing encounter with Jesus.We talk about his seven-year search for truth, the 40-day fast, and how God turned everything around. Now he’s helping others find freedom through Hope Is Alive.If you feel stuck or empty, this one’s for you. God’s not done with you yet.Please look up "Hope Is Alive" at hopeisalive.net

Some people hear "15 felonies" and write a man off. John Reel heard it about himself and decided to prove everyone wrong — including the voice in his own head. This one hit different...John grew up in Texas, dealt with childhood trauma he buried for years, ran with the wrong crowd, joined a gang, went in and out of prison for about seven years, and got out in 2014 with nothing but a decision to change. Today he owns a seven-figure concrete construction company, is raising two boys, and is one of the most real conversations I've had on this show. What We Talked About: • The childhood trauma John Reel carried for years — and how prison is where he finally faced it • What it's like being a white dude in an all-black gang — inside and outside the walls • Getting baptized in a horse trough in prison and what that moment meant • Coming home and going right back — three DWIs, fighting parole, and finally surrendering everything to God in 2017 • Losing seven figures, hitting rock bottom again, and rebuilding from zero • Why your circle determines your ceiling — and how John Reel built his way into the right rooms • Reverse engineering your goals — starting with $500 a week and ending up with a company doing seven figures a year • What John Reel would tell his 16-year-old self Why This Matters: Your past is not your future. That's not just something we say on this show — John Reel is living proof. If you're locked up right now, just got out, or you feel like you've blown too many chances — this episode is for you. You can still build something real. All it takes is putting your back against the wall, locking in, and giving God everything — not just the parts that are easy. If you're watching this, you're loved and you're forgiven — and there ain't nothing you can do about it.

Me and Bryan are back and this one got real, fast.We catch you up on the Teen Summit, the D.C. mentoring conference, and the gym flood that's had me paying $10K a month on a space I can't use. I'm not pretending everything's good when it's not — that's not what this is.We also get into the lies we believed about ourselves, why your community determines everything, and what we'd tell anyone coming home: stop chasing the image, build the credit, stack the bread.Full transparency — I'm only a few weeks into complete sobriety. I’m done convincing myself a couple drinks was fine and I feel better than I have in a long time.This podcast exists for you!You're loved, You're forgiven and there's nothing you can do about it.New mailing address:8001 Valcasi Drive, Suite 131 — Arlington, TX 76001We read every letter.

He grew up broke in South Florida.Single mom. Cuban roots. Four jobs just to survive.No silver spoon. No shortcuts.Mike Wilson chose discipline over excuses.From the military…To wearing the badge as a police officer…To building a restaurant empire that now operates inside Texas Rangers Stadium.But this isn’t just a business story.It’s about resilience.It’s about service.It’s about taking every season of your life — even the hard ones — and using it to build something bigger.Today Mike is a public speaker, entrepreneur, and proof that your background doesn’t dictate your future.If you’ve ever felt behind…If you’ve ever felt broke…If you’ve ever felt like the odds were stacked against you…This episode is for you.

Richard Helen is one of those people where every time he opens his mouth, you want to grab a notepad and write everything down. We met through a men's group, and I've been trying to get him on the podcast ever since.Richard's story isn't what you'd expect. He grew up in a small town in Texas, joined the military at 19, and discovered leadership in a way that completely changed his life. But it wasn't just about leading others—it was about learning to lead himself first. Through counseling, reflection, and a lot of hard work, Richard discovered how the way he was raised shaped the way he showed up in relationships. And once he understood that, everything changed.This conversation is one of the most practical episodes we've ever done. If you've ever struggled in a relationship—whether it's with your spouse, your kids, or even yourself—this episode will give you real tools to work with.Richard breaks down what a healthy relationship actually looks like, how to communicate when emotions are running high, how to rebuild trust after you've broken it, and why so many of us keep attracting the same type of person over and over again.What We Talked About:• How the military taught Richard about leadership and serving something bigger than himself• The five agreements every healthy relationship needs (spiritual, emotional, financial, sexual, and parenting)• Why emotional intelligence is the foundation of every relationship• How to communicate during conflict without tearing each other down• The rules Richard and his wife created to fight fair in their marriage• How to apologize the right way (and why most apologies don't work)• Rebuilding trust after you've broken it—and why you can't rush the process• Why counseling isn't just for broken people—it's for anyone who wants to grow• How to heal from your past so you don't keep bringing it into new relationships• Why you can't expect someone else to validate what only God canRichard has been married three times, and he's the first to tell you that his past failures made him the man he is today. He doesn't regret any of it—because without those experiences, he wouldn't be able to help the people he's helping now.If you're locked up right now and thinking about the relationships you've damaged or the ones you want to build when you get out—this episode is for you. Start working on yourself now so you're ready when the time comes.Connect with Richard Helen: Website: RichardHelen.com Books available on Amazon (search Richard Helen)If this episode helped you, share it with someone who needs to hear it. And remember — you're loved, you're forgiven, and there's nothing you can do about it.

Justin Visitacion and I have been talking about this conversation for over a year. We actually recorded a two-hour episode a while back, but only one clip ever saw the light of day. So we sat down again—this time with clarity, intention, and no holding back.Justin’s story isn’t the typical redemption narrative you usually hear on this podcast. He’s never been incarcerated. But what he does bring is a powerful perspective on entrepreneurship, faith, and fatherhood—one that many men coming out of prison need to hear, especially when they’re trying to figure out what comes next.Justin went from being a college baseball player to becoming a father at just 19 years old. That moment changed everything. He was forced to grow up fast and make real decisions about the kind of man he wanted to be. With only one semester left, he walked away from nursing school to pursue roofing sales—a move that seemed reckless at the time, but ultimately reshaped his entire future.Today, he runs Ember Roofing, a roofing company built on integrity, experience, and treating people the right way. That decision didn’t just change his career—it gave him the freedom to provide for his family in ways he never thought possible.

We've been trying to get Sylvester Stemley on this podcast for three years. When he finally explained why he waited, it all clicked — he was watching to see if I was answering an agenda or answering an assignment.This conversation hits deep. Sylvester went from managing trainers and working with pro athletes to full-time youth ministry, realizing God had been preparing him all along. We talk about the Teen Summit, the challenge of reaching kids in a noisy world, and a powerful truth: don’t waste the wait. While you’re waiting, are you picking up the weight to grow stronger?If you feel stuck, overlooked, or are waiting on a breakthrough, this episode is for you. Sylvester unpacks Joseph’s time in prison and how purpose can still be lived out in the hardest seasons.We cover:• His transition from fitness to youth ministry• Why he waited three years to come on the podcast• Lessons from the Teen Summit• The real obstacle in youth ministry• Why discipleship starts at home• Agenda vs. assignment• Not wasting your season• Using influence the right waySylvester is humble, intentional, and serious about reaching the next generation. I’m fired up about what we’re building.If this episode spoke to you, share it. And if you’re in a season of waiting — don’t waste it. Pick up the weight.

In this episode, we sit down with Will Clewis, a man who went from believing he’d play pro football… to facing the heartbreak of going undrafted and spiraling into depression. But instead of letting that moment define him, Will rebuilt everything from the ground up.He became a teacher, poured into students, and eventually took a massive leap of faith by opening his own gym. That gym didn’t just survive—it blew up, becoming one of the most successful fitness spots in his city. After scaling it to the top, Will sold the business and stepped into his true calling: coaching entrepreneurs on how to build, scale, and sell companies the right way.This conversation is packed with real talk about identity, purpose, failure, entrepreneurship, and the mindset it takes to reinvent your life when the dream you were chasing falls apart.Whether you’re behind bars, building a business, or trying to find your next chapter, Will’s story will show you what’s possible when you refuse to stay down.#ForgivenAFPodcast#BiblicalManhood#HealingAndFaith

In this powerful episode, we sit down with a man who went to prison at a young age — but that wasn’t the end of his story. After getting out, he turned his life around, got his record erased, found faith, and became a Christian rapper using his story to inspire others. Now he’s working inside the juvenile justice system, helping young people avoid the same mistakes he once made.This is what redemption looks like. This is what 2nd chances are all about.🔥 Topics we cover:• How prison changed his mindset• The process of getting his record cleared• Finding purpose through faith and music• His mission in the juvenile justice department• Why second chances matterIf you’ve ever felt like your past defined you — this episode will change that.

This convo with Will Winfield—aka Will is Blessed—was one of the most powerful episodes we’ve done.We talked about everything from father wounds and forgiveness to calling, purpose, and what it really means to walk out your faith with boldness. Will’s journey proves that you don’t need a degree or platform to impact lives—you just need obedience.What We Talked About: • How he overcame rejection and identity struggles • What forgiveness did for his life and calling • Public speaking tips (especially if you’re scared to try) • Knowing when God is telling you to move • Checking your heart and staying humble as a leaderWhy It Matters:This episode is for anyone who’s been playing it safe. You’ve got a calling, and it’s time to shift gears and walk in it. As Will said, “If the enemy’s attacking you, it’s because you’re a threat.”Let’s go.

This episode hit different. I got to sit down with my friend Tuan Nguyen—someone who’s been through it and came out stronger. From multiple stints in prison to leading people as a certified John Maxwell speaker and coach, his story is raw, real, and full of redemption.What We Talked About• His journey from addiction and incarceration to faith and freedom• The trauma that shaped him—and how he’s healing through it• What prison taught him about leadership, communication, and identity• How he’s now empowering ex-offenders and entrepreneurs through coaching• Why personal development is spiritual developmentWhy It MattersTuan’s story proves that you can lose everything and still build a life that honors God. If you’re stuck in the streets or struggling to believe you’re more than your past, this episode is for you. There’s purpose in your pain—and freedom on the other side of surrender.

Today I sit down with my friend Robert Walsh—18 years with Arlington PD, former undercover/homicide sergeant, and founder of NEX Metropolitan. Robert was the first person to invite me to share my testimony with students after I came home, and it changed my life. This one is honest, nuanced, and full of hope and accountability.

In this episode I sit down with my guy Bryan Burns—board member, brother, and friend—for a raw Q&A pulled straight from your emails. We get into turning points, imposter syndrome, building “Fresh Out,” and the real heart behind Second Chance Mentors. No fluff—just hope, truth, and what God can do with a messy past.

This one’s special. I sat down with Zachariah Rippey—comedian, podcaster, speaker, and most of all, a man whose life radically shifted when he encountered Jesus in a real way. From chasing laughs to chasing purpose, this is a raw conversation about transformation, calling, and stepping out in faith.What We Talked About:• His journey from stand-up comedy to full-time ministry• How COVID shattered his career but sparked his faith• The origin and impact of the “I Like Birds” podcast• Grief, RV life, and discovering God’s plan• His mission in Uganda and launching a powerful new book• Humor, vulnerability, and truth as tools for evangelismWhy It Matters:Zach’s story is a reminder that God’s purpose is often found in the unexpected. When doors close, others open—and they often lead us exactly where we’re supposed to be. If you’ve ever felt like your identity was tied to a title or talent, this episode is a must-listen.If you’re feeling stuck or wondering what’s next, let this be your nudge: God can use everything for His glory.

This one is wild, y’all.I got to sit down with Robert Borelli, a former member of the Gambino crime family, and let me tell you—his story is straight out of a movie. But it’s real. From running the streets of Brooklyn, living the mafia life, to crack addiction and multiple stints in prison… all the way to a radical encounter with Jesus that changed everything.What We Talked About:•    Growing up in a mafia-run neighborhood •    His slow slide into organized crime•    The toll addiction took on his life and reputation•    Getting clean in Rikers and giving his life to Christ•    Starting over with a new identity—literally and spiritually •    How he now uses his story to lead others to JesusWhy It Matters:So many people think they’re too far gone. Robert is proof that no one is. No matter how dark your past, God can still give you a new name, a new heart, and a new mission.If you’re stuck in a cycle or feel like there’s no way out, this episode is for you. You’re never too far for a comeback—and God’s not done with you yet.

Check out this conversation with Shawn and Jeffery and see how Jeffery has overcome years of struggles and failures and turned it for good.  He now brings coaching and motivation to many others and has created what he considers the 5 keys to failure. Jeffrey believes all are called but few will answer. Listen in! 

In this episode, Shawn chats with Trevor Burger about his difficult journey to sobriety and the profound purpose he found along the way. Trevor shares how he now helps struggling addicts nationwide by guiding them toward recovery and a relationship with Jesus. Listen in as they discuss the transformative impact of the Hope Is Alive program, which provides men and women with new opportunities for a brighter future. 

Check out this episode where Shawn and Kendrick discuss what led to prison, the lifestyle and work done behind the walls and the incredible bounce back after getting released.  It’s never too late to start over and take advantage of a 2nd chance. 

Check out this episode where Shawn and Bryan discuss recent life updates and make a major announcement about the future of 2nd Chance Mentors. This announcement could change the lives of so many people, check it out! 

Join Shawn and Chase as they dive into the journey that led Chase into the world of fitness and ultimately to becoming a professional bodybuilder. Discover how his life took a dramatic turn due to a significant health scare and the miraculous recovery that followed.

Join Shawn and Ryian as they explore the critical role of a strong community and the significant impact a father figure has in the home. This engaging discussion is packed with valuable insights and unexpected gems that could transform your perspective. Tune in and discover ideas that might just change your life!

Check out this episode as Shawn and Allen Jones discuss his book "Just Clocked Out” on overcoming adversity and how to work towards the personal and financial freedom we want in our lives. Don’t miss this episode with tons of wisdom we could all use to advance our purpose.

Join Shawn and Micah as they discuss the “Brothers in Christ” youth ministry that Micah started to bring high school boys to Christ. Tune in as Micah shares his testimony and where his passion for youth ministry started.

Tune in with Shawn, Chris, and Connor as they explore God’s intention for us to share life with fellow believers and highlight the significance of a Christian community. Don't miss it!

Join Shawn and Ian aka Asap Preach as they discuss their similar backgrounds and their journey to faith. Ian had years of struggles before his life change and he now spreads the gospel all over the world through Christian rap. Check it out!

The world needs mentors to step up and guide young men to success. Check out this episode as Shawn and Paul discuss how important mentorship is and the multiple benefits that come from these relationships. It is time to get off the sideline and get into the game of giving back.

From a small town in Louisiana to the city lights of DFW, Anvalon Elliot made his own path to success without taking any handouts. Shawn and Anvalon discuss his journey to opening multiple successful businesses through trial and error and his keys to success that anyone could incorporate into their daily lives.

Join Shawn and Pastor Mac Shirley as they discuss how important it is to listen to Gods calling on your life, even if people around you don’t see it. See how God won’t give you a calling and not equipt you to follow it out. Listen in as they also discuss the highs and lows of ministry and how important it is to stay connected to the will of God.

Welcome Paul back on the show as he and Shawn discuss the importance of serving and giving back.  Both Shawn and Paul have seen the direct positive impact on their lives and lives of the people they serve.  Listen in as they hope to persuade some people to get off the sideline and get into the game of serving others. 

Join Shawn and Andre as they talk about youth empowerment and the importance of mentorship. Andre has a non profit called CACI designed to help young men and women to be prepared for all lifes challenges. Check out this episode to see how this program was started and find out the direction this amazing program will take in the future.

Unable to fit in at school and uncomfortable with his circumstances Cory turned to a life of drugs, especially when introduced to methamphetamine. Check out this episode and see how Cory overcame his addiction and created an amazing life for his family. His new book “Born Loser” is out now and definitely worth the read for anyone that struggles with addiction or knows someone struggling with addiction.

Join Shawn and Dax as they explore how Dax was able to overcome addiction and find his purpose in ministry. God has allowed Dax to use his past experiences to connect with the youth and we are super excited to share about his huge upcoming project in Bonham, TX.

After retiring from the military and playing professional basketball overseas, Charles Caldwell aka "Big C" saw death in his brother’s eyes a week before his brother was murdered. After losing his brother, he felt called to start a non profit called Adolescents to Adults and has helped thousands of young men grow into their potential through his mentorship program. Join Shawn and Big C as they discuss the importance of having father figures in the lives of these young men.

Having mentored young men in 2nd Chance over the last three years, Shawn has compiled five essential principles that can pave the way for success. Feel free to pass on these insights to anyone who could benefit from guidance on how to establish a successful and fulfilling life.

After forming a strong friendship and helping Shawn open his first gym, Chris made a a few small mistakes that sent him back to prison. Now that he is home again, Shawn and Chris have reconnected. This episode is a huge step in vulnerability and accountability into Chris’s life so he can step into his purpose.

Freddie “Flawless” Jenkins had to overcome a troubled past before connecting with God and guiding hundreds of individuals through fitness and nutrition transformations. Join Shawn and Freddie in their conversation about leaving behind a fast-paced lifestyle and sustaining a life dedicated to Jesus, despite its imperfections.

A tough upbringing had Dre taking from the streets and after encountering God and turning his life around he is now serving and giving back to the streets. Listen to Shawn and Dre as they discuss fathers, gang banging, prison, and how all these things shaped Dre into the God honoring man he is today. Don't miss this story of Gods redemption.

While Jais Munoz was fighting for his life, enduring 4 strokes and 9 brain surgeries, he explains how he experienced a glimpse of Heaven. Don’t miss this episode as Jais explains the extreme peace and beauty he experienced while the doctors considered him gone from this earth as he layed lifeless in the ICU. This experience has launched Jais into a mission to make sure people know what is to come and make sure they are on the right path to get there.

Join Shawn as he interviews Dr. Chris Harper about biblical manhood and challenges facing men in society today. Many men act like they have it all figured out and struggle in silence. This episode will give any man tips and advice on how to live this life according to Gods will and help them pursue purpose over pleasure.

Join Shawn as he interviews the creative genius behind his gym content creator and podcast editor Joe Cline. Joe Cline is the CEO of Social Vibes and this episode covers everything from marketing to marriage. Tune in to see what happens behind the scenes and gain some insight into the life of a marketing guru.

A must listen for anyone battling drug abuse and looking for purpose. Join Shawn as he interviews Bryan Burns, owner of Trinity West Roofing, about how years of prison and addiction took everything from him and how he has overcome that to start a successful roofing company. Bryan gives great advice on battling addiction and how his faith has been a major part of his recovery.

Join Shawn as he engages in a captivating conversation with Jesse Jackson, the visionary behind Inner Strength Fitness. Together, they discuss aging, fitness, and triumphing over a harmful religious upbringing, ultimately leading Jesse to discover his purpose and form an authentic connection with God.