17 Winters Podcast - podcast cover

17 Winters Podcast

Welcome to "17 Winters with Brother Mike X," a thought-provoking podcast where we dive deep into the realities of prison life and the journey of reintegration into society. Join me as I explore the challenges faced by individuals after serving time and the transformative changes that have allowed myself and my guests to become productive members of the communities we once impacted negatively. Through candid conversations and powerful stories, we aim to shed light on the complexities of redemption, resilience, and the human spirit. Tune in for an inspiring and eye-opening exploration of second chances and the path to a better life.

Download Metacast podcast app
Podcasts are better in Metacast mobile app
Don't just listen to podcasts. Learn from them with transcripts, summaries, and chapters for every episode. Skim, search, and bookmark insights. Learn more

Episodes

Episode #30: "From the Crack Era to Real Estate Success" featuring Marcus Miller

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of 17 Winters , I sit down with Marcus Miller — a Lansing native whose journey from the streets to success is nothing short of remarkable. Marcus shares his story of growing up in Lansing during the crack era , his early involvement in the drug trade, and the painful consequences that led to him serving 12 years in prison . Now a respected real estate agent at a prestigious firm , Marcus opens up about the lessons he learned , the hardships he endured...

Jul 01, 20251 hr 16 minEp. 24

Episode #29: “Committed to the Change” featuring Brother David X (Bates)

In Episode 29 of 17 Winters , Brother Mike X sits down with Brother David X (Bates), a formerly incarcerated man who returned home in 1999 and has since lived a life rooted in purpose, faith, and transformation. A dedicated member of the Nation of Islam, Brother David shares his powerful story of transitioning back into society, building a professional life grounded in discipline and service, and staying committed to his growth. We reflect on our early connection and interactions before prison, ...

Jun 18, 202556 minEp. 29

Episode #28: “Sentenced, Resentenced, Redeemed?” with Joei Jordan

In this raw and reflective episode, I reconnect with Joei Jordan , calling in from behind the walls, for a powerful follow-up to his first appearance on the podcast. The last time we spoke, Joei was serving life without parole (LWOP) —sentenced at just 20 years old . Today, his future looks dramatically different. On April 1, 2025 , the Michigan Supreme Court issued a groundbreaking decision in People v. Poole , extending resentencing protections retroactively to those like Joei. With additional...

Apr 22, 202541 min

Episode #27: "Faith, Freedom & Finding Manhood” with Brother Malachi Muhammad

In this powerful episode, I sit down with Brother Malachi Muhammad , a deeply rooted voice of transformation, truth, and liberation. We trace his incredible journey—from navigating the complex relationship between the Nation of Islam and the Melanics , to joining the Nation of Islam and our shared commitment to the fight for justice and freedom for Brother Dyson X . Brother Malaci opens up about the moment he discovered the identity of his father, the impact of that knowledge, and how it shaped ...

Apr 22, 20251 hr 40 min

Episode #25: Ethan Calloway’s Journey After 9 Years"

“Time is the most valuable asset in life…” In this episode, I sit down with Ethan Calloway , who served 9 years in MDOC . Ethan shares his firsthand experience with the challenges of prison programming , the gaps in rehabilitation, and how these issues impact reentry. But this conversation is also personal—Ethan had a front-row seat to my transformation while we were both inside. He shares his perspective on witnessing my change and how it shaped his own outlook on life after incarceration. Now ...

Apr 01, 20251 hr 16 min

Episode #24: Steven X (Jones), Entrepreneur

“Everything that happened had to happen that way to make me who I am…” In this episode of the 17 Winters podcast, we delve deep into the life of Steven X Jones, a man whose journey through the tumultuous landscape of crime and redemption offers profound insights into the human experience. Serving 12 years for armed robbery, Steven is not just a statistic; he is one of the most intelligent individuals I encountered during my time behind bars. Steven shares his story of growing up with a father fi...

Mar 24, 20251 hr 15 min

Episode #23: Hakim Nathaniel Crampton, Organizer/Author

"Breaking the cycle of incarceration.” In this eye-opening episode of the 17 Winters podcast, we meet Hakim Crampton, a resilient individual who spent 15 years in the Milwaukee prison system for a crime he did not commit. Now, nearly two decades after his release, Hakim shares his incredible journey of survival, struggle, and triumph, all while navigating the complexities of life on parole. Hakim’s story sheds light on the harsh realities of inter-generational incarceration, highlighting how sys...

Mar 20, 20251 hr 10 min

Episode #22: PTSD (pt. 1) with Sidney Black

In this thought-provoking episode, Sidney and I engage in a compelling discussion as we explore the complexities of the 13th Amendment of the US Constitution. This episode delves into the nuances of justice, freedom, and the implications of incarceration. One of the key questions we tackle is whether PTSD is considered real or respected if it is self-inflicted —specifically, when individuals commit crimes, place themselves in prison, and are ultimately responsible for navigating their own trauma...

Feb 28, 202535 min

Episode #21: Chamar Avery, Actor/Comedian (Exonoree)

In this powerful episode of The 17 Winters Podcast, I kick it with Chamar Avery, who shares his harrowing journey from being sentenced to 20-50 years for a murder he didn’t commit to his exoneration after serving 8 years behind bars. Chamar opens up about the struggles he faced during his time in prison and the fight for justice that ultimately led to his freedom. We delve into his remarkable transition from convicted murderer to completely exonerated individual, exploring the challenges of rein...

Feb 28, 20251 hr 26 min

Episode #20: LaVonte X, Legalize the Hustle

“Prison saved me from me…” In this episode of I sat down with entrepreneur and visionary, Vonte X, the founder and driving force behind Legalize the Hustle. Vonte opens up about his early struggles, including the challenges he faced when returning home and the business missteps that shaped his journey. Vonte shares his experiences running up credit and the crucial lessons he learned about leveraging funds wisely. He discusses the transformative power of belief, both in himself and from those aro...

Feb 28, 202550 min
For the best experience, listen in Metacast app for iOS or Android
Open in Metacast