Second Chances, First Steps

As we close out Second Chance Month, The Latino Newsletter podcast presents a powerful collaboration with our friends at CALÓ News.

Guest hosts Brenda Verano and Michelle Zacarias sit down with newly sworn-in attorney Ester Mendez. a first-generation Oaxacan American who transformed a cycle of incarceration into a life of purpose. Ester opens up about navigating mental health challenges, criminal charges, and the long road to becoming a lawyer. Her story is one of accountability, community, and the real meaning of reentry.

This podcast episode is a special collaboration between The Latino Newsletter and the Latino Media Collaborative's flagship news initiative, CALÓ News.

Funding was provided by the Los Angeles County Justice, Care, and Opportunities Department (JCOD), established to reimagine and enhance support for justice-impacted individuals and their families across Los Angeles County. To get more information, call 833-LAC-JCOD.

Produced by Joaquin Cotler

Edited by Julio Ricardo Varela and Joaquin Cotler

Music by Cast of Characters.