Frames of Truth Podcast

🎙️ Episode 3 Show Notes“I Am These Kids” (with Steve Coleman)In this episode of Frames of Truth, Bobby Rettew sits down with Steve Coleman, Director of College Outreach at Piedmont Technical College and founder of MODELS Academy, for a real and unfiltered conversation about access, opportunity, and what it takes to change the trajectory of a life.Steve shares the story behind MODELS Academy, a program built to invest in the academic and personal development of young Black men across the region. What started through a grant initiative has grown into something much deeper…a commitment to showing students what’s possible.At the center of this conversation is a powerful idea:exposure changes everything.Together, Bobby and Steve explore: Why MODELS Academy was created and the need it addresses The reality of educational and economic gaps facing Black men Steve’s personal journey from a 1.9 GPA to a life of impact The importance of accountability, mentorship, and high expectations Why college visits and campus exposure matter for students who have never seen it before What it means to prepare students for both their community and the broader world The evolving future of the program, including unexpected moments that are shaping what comes nextSteve also shares a defining perspective that shapes his work:“I am these kids.”The conversation moves from personal story to systemic challenge, and ultimately to possibility…what can happen when students are given the chance to see themselves in spaces they once thought were out of reach.There is a clear invitation throughout this episode:Not just to listen, but to invest.To show up.And to create opportunities where they don’t yet exist.Because sometimes, the first step toward changing a life…is simply showing someone what’s possible. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bobbyrettew.substack.com

In this episode of Frames of Truth, I go back about twenty years to a story that shaped the way I understand storytelling.At the time, I was a young photojournalist trying to find my footing in a Charlotte newsroom. Alongside Stuart Watson, I worked on a piece about Ronald Gattis—an opera singer attempting to rebuild his life after addiction.What I thought was just another assignment became something much more.This episode is a reflection on that story, the process behind it, and the people who shaped the way I see storytelling today—including a moment years later with Bob Dotson that reframed everything I thought I knew.This is not a conversation.It is a return.A return to an edit bay.A return to early mistakes and early instincts.A return to the moment where storytelling stopped being a job… and started becoming a craft. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bobbyrettew.substack.com

In this first episode of Frames of Truth, Bobby Rettew sits down with Ginny Fretwell, publisher of The Electric City News, for a real and unfiltered conversation about storytelling, community, and the role of local journalism.Ginny shares her unexpected journey from a 28-year career in education into launching a community newspaper alongside her sister. What started as a leap of faith turned into a 17-year commitment to telling positive, local stories that reflect the heart of Anderson, South Carolina.At the center of this conversation is a simple but powerful idea:story matters…especially the ones closest to home.Together, Bobby and Ginny explore:* Why local newspapers still matter in a digital-first world* The difference between consuming content online and experiencing a physical newspaper* The importance of telling “good news” and staying true to your mission* How storytelling builds connection, memory, and community* Why ordinary people and everyday stories are often the most meaningfulGinny also reflects on what makes a great story:“When people tell the truth…that’s a good story.”The conversation moves from the practical realities of running a small newspaper to the deeper purpose behind the work…capturing moments, preserving stories, and creating something people can hold onto.There’s also a strong invitation throughout the episode, especially for students and emerging storytellers:You don’t have to be perfect.You don’t have to be polished.You just have to tell the story.📍 About The Electric City News* Published every other Thursday* Distributed throughout Anderson, SC* Free community newspaper supported by local advertising* Focused on positive, local storytelling* Website —> https://www.theelectriccitynews.com🎧 Why This Episode MattersIn a time where national headlines dominate and digital content moves fast, this conversation is a reminder that local stories still shape how we see each other.They create connection.They preserve history.And sometimes, they end up on someone’s refrigerator…reminding them they’re not alone.🎙️ Closing ThoughtEvery community has stories worth telling.The question is…are we paying attention? This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit bobbyrettew.substack.com