The PlayFull Podcast with Kristine Michie: Bringing Fun to the Serious Work of Changing the World -

Mar 06 2024 35 mins

Today, you’ll meet Sam Lewis, CEO of the Anti-Recidivism Coalition, an amazing group that is transforming the prison system in California and nationwide through policy change, programs, and putting people first. Oh and did we mention, they are masters at the art of impactful play??!!

Listen in as Kristine and Sam discuss:

What play has to do with ending mass incarceration
How lived experience informs inspiring leadership
How to work and play can be adapted for diverse teams
Leading an organization where 80% of the staff is system-impacted
ARC’s role in shrinking the prison population and closing prisons

Key Takeaways:

ARC was founded on a spirit of fun, keeping that spirit takes daily commitment and is essential if you’re going to tackle difficult work day in and day out
Extending an invitation to play to your clients, funders, policymakers, staff … everyone, is the most powerful way to build partnerships
Finding humor, laughing at ourselves, is key to resilience
A leader with lived experience is uniquely positioned to make lasting change\
If we want kids to imagine a different, better future, we have to put that vision in front of them – they have to be able to see it, if they’re going to dream it

"There is nothing we can’t change if we put our minds to it and work together. Nothing in this world. And when I say us, I mean all of us." — Sam Lewis

About Sam Lewis: Sam Lewis is the Executive Director of the Anti Recidivism Coalition (ARC). Previously, Sam served as the Director of Inside Programs. A former life prisoner himself, Sam understands the various obstacles, challenges, and difficulties the prison and reentry populations face. In 2017, Sam created the Hope And Redemption Team (HART), a first-of-its kind initiative he built from scratch. The Hope & Redemption Team (HART) is a group of nine former California life prisoners who go back into California state prisons to provide hope, demonstrate that redemption is achievable, and to prepare participants for successful reentry into our communities. His work directing the Hope and Redemption Team exemplifies what’s best about ARC: our desire to reach and walk with those who have been most marginalized by society.

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