Today, I was joined by Kevin Shird, Speaker, National Youth Advocate, and Author.   I asked him to recount his journey to redemption where his quest to escape the perils of poverty and his father's addiction led to drug dealing and violence on the mean streets of Baltimore.  There was no question he was unwilling to answer and he owned his mistakes as he offered sobering lessons for young boys today and the parents who are raising them.  Callers also chimed in with astute observations.

These parent tips came out of our discussion:

1. Be present.
2. Emphasize education.
3. Provide security and stability.
4. Encourage reading.

Here are five key lessons Mr. Shird wanted to leave with black teen boys:

1. Pursue, and excel in, education.
2. Create a vision for your life.
3. Believe in yourself.
4. Find your passion and develop the skills needed to pursue it.
5. Connect with good people.

We appreciate the contributions from listeners though we couldn't take call of the calls that came in.  If you have anything to add, please leave your comments. (Air Date:  November 30, 2018)

Guest:  Kevin Shird, Speaker, National Youth Advocate, and Author of Lessons of Redemption:  A Story of Drugs, Guns, Violence, and Prison and Colored Waiting Room:  Empowering the Original and the New Civil Rights Movements:  Conversations an MLK Jr. Confidant and a Modern-Day Activist