It was a pleasure to speak with Jessica and listen as she shared all that she experienced as a high school drop out and single mother with a husband behind bars. This major turning point in her life, motivated her to complete her GED as well as complete college and law school, with honors, in order to help those similarly unfamiliar with the way the criminal justice system works. When you hear the compelling stories about both Jessica and her mother, you'll say, 'the fruit doesn't fall far from the tree.' Both women have been working tirelessly for decades in order to educate victims and their family members, as well as inform society to be more compassionate and aware and to update the parole and probation system. Resilience is one of the words that Jessica uses over and over again when describing her mother Maria who is originally from Stockholm, Sweden. Jessica also describes her mom as "a pioneer in her field." Very early on in the AIDS epidemic, Maria was involved with helping patients and their families maneuver the scary waters of a frightening disease. While in graduate school, Maria brought her days old daughter Jessica with her to class. Jessica went where ever her mother took her, to HIV/Aids conferences, seminars, etc. "She showed us" says Jessica, when referring to her mother, "by her actions, not her words, on how to live life." Jessica was adamant about how her mom had a "show them, don't tell them" philosophy about life. In other words, Maria was an example by her actions, not her words. Jessica reflects, "I never once saw my mom give up." Again, the parallels between mother and daughter are striking, Maria working with HIV/AIDS patients and Jessica with people in prison. Again, those whose lives were turned upside down, found a smart, caring and devoted women to make a difference in these unfortunate individuals lives. When Kim Kardashian West wanted tutoring in law once aware of wrongfully incarcerated first time offenders, she went to Jessica Jackson for help. On November 29, 2019, USA Today wrote "Kim Kardashian West came on board with the campaign after she heard about Alice Marie Johnson, a grandmother who had served 21 years of a life sentence for her first-ever drug conviction, and was moved to help. Kardashian West was instrumental in convincing Trump to grant Johnson clemency. " That's just one of thousands of cases that Jackson has had overturned and continues to fight in order to get families back together under one roof. Both of these women with all that they have accomplished and continue to accomplish is living proof that if you set your mind to something, anything and everything is possible. As Maria said to her daughter "you can do anything, you can achieve anything, if you work hard enough." REFORM Alliance Mission Statement: REFORM Alliance aims to transform probation and parole by changing laws, systems and culture to create real pathways to work and wellbeing. A justice system that holds people accountable and redirects back to work and wellbeing leads to stronger families and safer communities. Instead of keeping people trapped in a revolving door from probation/parole to prison — which costs taxpayers billions of dollars — we’re working to move people from the justice system into stability. History REFORM’s story starts with the unjust re-imprisonment of recording artist Meek Mill. The shocking two-to-four year sentence he received for popping a wheelie spurred the international #FreeMeek movement, which led to release on bail and eventually his freedom. Although Meek had the resources and public platform to fight his case, his case is only one of millions. The vast majority of people trapped in the system don’t get their stories told, or have the resources to fight back. On January 23, 2019, a world-class group of philanthropists and activists came together to launch the REFORM Alliance to change this REFORM Alliance 1675 Broadway, 21st Floor New York, NY 10019-5820 If you would like to learn more about how to support REFORM, please contact us at development@reformalliance.com. #cut50-Co founder along with Van JonesAn organization designed to cut prison populations, but also wipe out the stigmas associated with being incarcerated because of the current criminal justice system. The family member behind bars is not the only one negatively affected. COO/CAO Reform Alliance; Fmr. Mayor & Council Member City of Mill Valley; WEF Young Global Leader; Co-founder of #cut50; Human Rights Attorney "Should Have Listened To My Mother" is an ongoing conversation about mothers/female role models and the roles they play in our lives. Jackie's guests are open and honest and answer the question, are you who you are today because of, or in spite of, your mother and so much more. You'll be amazed at what the responses are. Gina Kunadian wrote this 5 Star review on Apple Podcast: SHLTMM TESTIMONIAL GINA KUNADIAN JUNE 18, 2024 “A Heartfelt and Insightful Exploration of Maternal Love” Jackie Tantillo’s “Should Have Listened To My Mother” Podcast is a treasure and it’s clear why it’s a 2023 People’s Choice Podcast Award Nominee. This show delves into the profound impact mother and maternal role models have on our lives through personal stories and reflections. Each episode offers a chance to learn how different individuals have been shaped by their mothers’ actions and words. Jackie skillfully guides these conversations, revealing why guests with similar backgrounds have forged different paths. This podcast is a collection of timeless stories that highlight the powerful role of maternal figures in our society. Whether your mother influenced you positively or you thrived despite challenges, this show resonates deeply. I highly recommend “Should Have Listened To My Mother” Podcast for its insightful, heartfelt and enriching content. Gina Kunadian "Should Have Listened To My Mother" would not be possible without the generosity, sincerity and insight from my guests. In 2018/2019, in getting ready to launch my podcast, so many were willing to give their time and share their personal stories of their relationship with their mother, for better or worse and what they learned from that maternal relationship. Some of my guests include Nationally and Internationally recognized authors, Journalists, Columbia University Professors, Health Practitioners, Scientists, Artists, Attorneys, Baritone Singer, Pulitzer Prize Winning Journalist, Activists, Freighter Sea Captain, Film Production Manager, Professor of Writing Montclair State University, Attorney and family advocate @CUNY Law; NYC First Responder/NYC Firefighter, Child and Adult Special Needs Activist, Property Manager, Chefs, Self Help Advocates, therapists and so many more talented and insightful women and men. Jackie has worked in the broadcasting industry for over four decades. She has interviewed many fascinating people including musicians, celebrities, authors, activists, entrepreneurs, politicians and more. A big thank you goes to Ricky Soto, NYC based Graphic Designer, who created the logo for "Should Have Listened To My Mother". MORE INFORMATION ABOUT SHLTMM PODCAST: Link to website and show notes: https://shltmm.simplecast.com/ and https://www.jackietantillo.com/ Or more demos of what's to come at https://soundcloud.com/jackie-tantillo Listen wherever you find podcasts: https://www.facebook.com/ShouldHaveListenedToMyMother https://www.facebook.com/jackietantillo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shouldhavelistenedtomymother/ https://www.instagram.com/jackietantillo7/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackie-tantillo/ YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@ShouldHaveListenedToMyMother
