Donald McDonald

No Thanks But Yes

Donald McDonald

  • S2/E19: Jose Nicolas Flores – Freedom!

S2/E19: Jose Nicolas Flores – Freedom!

Monday 3rd July 2023

Hear Jose Nicolas Flores' journey from solitary confinement to advocacy in 'No Thanks But Yes'. A story of resilience and systemic change.
28 minutes
Inspiring
Empowering
Hopeful
Compassionate
Supportive

About this podcast

No Thanks But Yes
Author:
Donald McDonald
Overview:
Categories:
Recovery Reimagined
Creative Recovery Journeys
Empowering Recovery Journeys
Sexual Empowerment & Identity
Understanding Addiction & Recovery
Links:
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Episodes:
49 (View all)
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Jose Nicolas Flores: From Solitary to Solidarity

Episode Overview

  • Jose Nicolas Flores shares his journey of triumph over almost 13 years of incarceration, including eight years in solitary confinement
  • He discusses his role as a reentry peer specialist and addictions counselor in Texas, emphasizing the importance of supporting individuals transitioning back into the community
  • Jose manages state open response funding to address crises in Texas and provides substance use counselling, reflecting on the impact of his work
  • He highlights the significance of mental health support and the need for systemic change within the criminal justice system
  • Jose's experiences and insights shed light on the complexities of recovery, emphasizing the importance of advocating for marginalized populations
I hope that one day we'll be able to see that. We'll be able to see that. And if not, you know, that maybe people will still be carrying that on, you know, after us to try to establish that.
Imagine spending nearly 13 years behind bars, with eight of those years in solitary confinement. That’s the reality Jose Nicolas Flores faced, and in this gripping episode of 'No Thanks But Yes', he shares his extraordinary journey from incarceration to advocacy. Hosted by Donald McDonald, this conversation delves into Jose's transformation from a prison gang member to a reentry peer specialist and addictions counselor in Texas.
His story isn't just about survival; it's about thriving and making a difference for others in similar situations. Jose's passion for helping individuals reenter society is palpable. He works tirelessly as the recovery support services lead at Texas Target Open Response, managing state funding to address crises and providing substance use counseling. His advocacy extends to policy work, striving to improve the lives of incarcerated and returning citizens.
Throughout the episode, Jose reflects on his recovery journey, the challenges he faced, and his unwavering commitment to supporting others. His insights shed light on the complexities of recovery, the importance of mental health support, and the need for systemic change within the criminal justice system. Whether you're interested in personal stories of resilience or systemic advocacy, this episode offers a powerful blend of both.
Tune in to hear how Jose's experiences have shaped his mission to remove barriers to freedom and wellness for his fellows.