Count Time Now!

Fred Ward

Fred Ward introduces 'Count Time Now,' a new podcast aimed at addressing the challenges faced by individuals with felony convictions. The podcast will focus on education and narrative to assist in societal reintegration, discussing topics like the impact of the 13th Amendment and the importance of collective power. It aims to destigmatize felony convictions and encourage civic engagement, highlighting the importance of voting and legislative change. The name 'Count Time' is significant, as it relates to the institutional practice of counting inmates, now it's time for us ALL to be counted.

  1. JAN 28

    Navigating Collateral Sanctions

    Join Fred Ward in this compelling episode of 'Count Time' as we step into 2026 with a powerful New Year's discussion. Fred hosts his esteemed colleague Tancred Jones, who brings a treasure trove of history and insight into the challenges faced by individuals with felony records. Tan shares his journey from the medical field to the restaurant industry, shedding light on the harsh realities of 'collateral sanctions' and their lasting impact on career opportunities. Dive into an authentic conversation about resilience, community support, and the fight for policy change. This isn't just another podcast—it's a movement to uplift and inspire. Don't miss Tan's advice on building successful businesses and the heartfelt mission to change perceptions and laws affecting directly impacted individuals. 00:00 Introduction and New Year's Greetings00:38 Introducing Tancred Jones02:00 The Purpose of Count Time Podcast04:06 Tan's Consulting Business05:48 Developing People, Not Managing Them08:39 Tan's Journey into the Medical Field11:59 Barriers and Collateral Sanctions17:31 Discussion on Criminal Justice and Recidivism21:00 Introduction of the New Interviewer21:02 From Treachery to Transformation21:34 Realizations and Reflections22:41 Survivor's Remorse and Redemption23:34 The Journey of Healing and Helping Others24:35 Philosophical Insights and Personal Growth27:52 Steps to Self-Improvement34:38 Challenges and Systemic Issues40:11 Conclusion and Call to Action

    42 min

  2. JAN 28

    New Year New Plans

    Fred Ward hosts another insightful episode of the Count Time Now podcast, reflecting on the impactful year of 2025. Fred highlights major milestones like the successful Count Time convening attended by over 500 people, legislation passed for women's hygiene products in prisons, and initiatives focused on reducing violence and improving housing in Ohio communities. He celebrates the stories of directly impacted individuals and advocates for continued collective action. The episode underscores the importance of voting, community building, and persistent efforts to combat systemic injustices. Join Fred as he discusses the journey ahead and calls for more people to get involved in 2026. 00:00 Introduction and Reflections on 202500:48 Count Time Convening and Community Building01:32 Expanding the Film Movement01:51 Redefining 'Directly Impacted'03:10 Legislative Successes and Advocacy04:32 Addressing Collateral Sanctions05:54 Community Engagement in Glenville07:48 Lead-Free Housing Initiatives09:04 Economic Investments and Local Heroes10:27 Welcoming Home Community Members13:06 Launching the Podcast: Count Time Now15:18 The Lynch Amongst Us: A Powerful Play18:57 Call to Action and Acknowledgements23:27 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    24 min

  3. 12/22/2025

    Gang Leader Turned Youth Leader

    In today’s episode of 'Count Time Now, host Fred Ward sits down with Dante Ferguson, also known as Iceberg Ferg, to discuss his remarkable transformation from a gang leader to a youth violence intervention advocate. They delve into their initial meeting, Dante's challenging past and gang affiliations, and the profound personal growth he has undergone over the years. Dante shares his harrowing experiences, the adverse childhood events that shaped his life, and his newfound mission to guide at-risk youth away from a path of violence. The conversation also introduces an innovative curriculum, ACE to ACEs, aimed at addressing adverse childhood experiences and reshaping young lives. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:44 First Meeting and Initial Impressions 01:47 Challenges in Violence Intervention Work 02:38 Gang Affiliation and Its Impact 04:12 Growth and Transformation 06:05 Adverse Childhood Experiences 07:42 The Making of Iceberg Ferg 12:04 Reformation and Realizations 15:32 Understanding the Impact of Trauma 16:48 A Life-Changing Experience 16:59 The Turning Point 17:45 A New Perspective on Life 18:46 Introducing the ACE to ACEs Curriculum 20:31 Personal Reflections on Adverse Childhood Experiences 22:27 The Reality of Trauma 24:50 The Path to Transformation 27:36 A Message of Hope and Dedication

    31 min

  4. 12/16/2025

    The American Dream, or Nightmare?

    In this compelling episode of 'Count Time,' join us as we dive deep with 2 Guests into powerful discussions on overcoming past mistakes, societal reintegration, and breaking free from the chains of adversity. From personal stories of hardship to dissecting the impact of socio-economic systems on crime and poverty, we uncover the complex layers of resilience and transformation. We also explore the profound effects of childhood experiences and the systemic obstacles faced by marginalized communities.  00:00 Introduction and Purpose of Count Time 01:23 Challenges of Staying Out of Trouble 01:46 The Impact of Choices and Society's Perception 06:17 The American Dream and Strain Theory 14:31 Systematic Oppression and Mass Incarceration 21:03 Generational Dysfunction and Survival 30:02 The Power of Personal Stories 31:09 Statistics and Realities of Youth 32:28 Overcoming Adversity and Leadership 33:25 The Dark Path and Redemption 36:55 Challenges of Parenting and Environment 43:57 The Need for Community and Support 53:25 Creating a Shared Language and Purpose

    57 min

  5. 12/09/2025

    From Crime to Community

    In this episode of Count Time Now, Fred Ward reconnects with his childhood friend, to navigate through their transformative journeys from their challenging beginnings in Cleveland's tough neighborhoods to their impactful roles today. They delve into their personal histories, discussing the struggles of growing up in difficult environments, their involvement in the streets, and the pivotal moments that inspired them to change their lives. The conversation also highlights the significant impact of the KMU Foundation and their collective efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic to support the community. Tune in for an honest and heartfelt discussion about resilience, redemption, and the power of community advocacy. 00:00 Welcome Back to Count Time 00:33 Interview with Childhood Friend Prophecy 00:51 Reflecting on the Past 01:24 Growing Up in the Struggle 01:49 Community and Activism 02:35 Early Hustles and Street Life 07:28 Historical Context and Family Legacy 13:37 Reconnecting After Prison 18:21 Navigating Business and Politics 21:53 The Power of Voting and Community Support 25:30 Embracing Change and Growth 25:46 Career Journey and Community Impact 26:16 Pandemic Response and Collaboration 31:14 Personal Transformations and Reflections 45:31 Challenges Facing Today's Youth 51:46 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

    53 min

  6. 12/01/2025

    From Trials To Triumph

    In this inspiring episode of Count Time Now, host Fred Ward sits down with two remarkable young men, Marquez and Brandon (aka 'Streets'), to discuss their transformative journeys. Fresh out of incarceration, both brothers share powerful stories of redemption, community leadership, and the importance of voting and civic engagement. They shed light on building new relationships with local leaders, planning community events, and their shared vision for 2026. Tune in for a raw, unfiltered conversation about overcoming adversity, embracing leadership, and making meaningful change in their neighborhoods. Don’t miss the powerful analogies, heartfelt moments, and future plans that will get you thinking about what’s truly possible when community members unite for positive change. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:59 Meeting Streets and His Story 07:52 Brandon's Journey and Reflections 12:44 Community Engagement and Voting 15:55 First Council Meeting Experience 21:33 Connecting with Councilwoman Gray 23:05 Big Griff and Community Outreach 23:17 Collaborations with Case Western Reserve 24:32 Rebuilding the Community 26:58 Public Safety vs. Public Health 30:39 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Juvenile Experiences 33:08 The Importance of Consistency and Community Programs 40:31 Imagining a Better Future 44:30 Concluding Thoughts and Call to Action

    46 min

  7. 11/25/2025

    The Roundtable Talk

    Join Fred Ward and a group of resilient brothers for a deep, raw, and unfiltered episode of Count Time Now. From encounters with systemic injustices to navigating life after wrongful convictions, these men lay it all out. They dive into the life-changing power of voting, the haunting effects of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), and the importance of credible messengers in communities. Experience their stories and learn how they channel past traumas into powerful transformations. This is more than just a podcast—it's a movement towards understanding and rebuilding lives. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introductions 02:19 Discussing Felony Convictions and Voting 06:10 The Importance of Voting and Community Involvement 08:37 Personal Stories and Reflections on Incarceration 11:23 Challenges Faced by Formerly Incarcerated Individuals 16:02 Youth and Early Experiences with Crime 22:51 Navigating the Justice System 25:19 The Impact of Childhood Trauma 25:51 Survival Mode and Its Consequences 30:31 Triggers and Coping Mechanisms 32:35 Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) 34:03 Reflecting on Past Trauma 39:47 The Importance of Safe Spaces for Healing 43:28 Empowerment and Building Power 45:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    47 min

  8. 11/19/2025

    27 Years Free

    In this riveting episode of Count Time, Fred Ward engages in a profound conversation with his longtime colleague Donovan. The discussion spans their shared experiences of incarceration, the transformative journey post-release, and the unique challenges faced by those with criminal records. They highlight the importance of voting, its strategic value for formerly incarcerated individuals, and debunk myths surrounding civic engagement. With personal anecdotes, including the harrowing tale of Fred's near-fatal accident shortly after his release, this episode emphasizes the essence of resilience and the power of collective action. Tune in for an insightful dialogue that urges reflection, understanding, and mobilization in the face of systemic barriers. 00:00 Introduction and Special Guest Announcement 00:44 Shared History and Reflections 02:15 Dedication and Audience Focus 03:35 Understanding 'Count Time' 07:00 Planning for Freedom 10:30 Challenges After Release 17:44 Discipline and Personal Growth 26:46 Collective Consciousness and Discipline 28:49 Guardian Angels and Support Systems 29:32 A Loyal Friend's Exhausting Night 30:26 A Near-Fatal Drive Home 32:04 Reflecting on Life's Close Calls 33:19 The Reality of Post-Prison Life 34:34 Sacrifices and Family 38:53 The Importance of Voting 41:57 Organizing for Change 46:17 The Power of Collective Action 50:21 Overcoming Misconceptions 01:04:59 The Struggle for Post-Prison Rights

    1h 9m
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About

Fred Ward introduces 'Count Time Now,' a new podcast aimed at addressing the challenges faced by individuals with felony convictions. The podcast will focus on education and narrative to assist in societal reintegration, discussing topics like the impact of the 13th Amendment and the importance of collective power. It aims to destigmatize felony convictions and encourage civic engagement, highlighting the importance of voting and legislative change. The name 'Count Time' is significant, as it relates to the institutional practice of counting inmates, now it's time for us ALL to be counted.

Information

  • Creator
    Fred Ward
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Fred Ward
  • Show Website
    Count Time Now!