Episodes

  • Episode 5: Breaking Down Barriers: From Inglewood to Redemption: The Journey of Carlos Iraheta

    Episode 5: Breaking Down Barriers: From Inglewood to Redemption: The Journey of Carlos Iraheta
    Jun 7 2024
    Welcome to the Homeboy Podcast, hosted by Dr. Homeboy, Marco Antonio Romero. In this captivating episode, Dr. Homeboy delves into a profound conversation with Carlos Iraheta (a friend of his), a distinctive voice and former homeboy, who shares his extraordinary journey from the streets of Inglewood to incarceration and, ultimately, to redemption. With raw honesty, Carlos discusses his upbringing in a multicultural neighborhood, his early involvement with gangs, and the life-altering events that led to his imprisonment. He recounts his experiences in the prison system, the challenges he faced, and the pivotal moments that sparked his transformation. As Carlos contemplates his past and imparts wisdom to his younger self and today’s youth, listeners are enlightened with valuable insights into the harsh realities of gang life and the significance of education, critical thinking, and personal growth. This episode is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the impact of second chances. Please tune in to hear Carlos’s compelling story and learn how he navigates his reintegration into society while striving to influence his family and community positively. Annotated Outline Episode Introduction The episode begins with an engaging music interlude and sound effects that capture the listener’s attention and set the ambiance for the podcast.Greet and introduce the podcast’s title and host’s name.Talking Point 1 Call to action: Audience engagement.Provide disclosure.Talking Point 2 Introduce the title of the episode and what will be covered.Talking Point 3 Provide the guest’s story utilizing the “Use of Self.”Provide the author’s positionality.Talking Point 4 Provide the guest’s social location.Provide the guest’s story (life story).Talking Point 5 Provide the guest’s self-reflection.Provide the guest’s reintegration process progress.Talking Point 6 Have the guest provide the intended audience with advice.Thank the guest.Talking Point 7 Recap of the episode and key takeaways.Call to action.Talking Point 8 Final words.Exit the episode with an engaging music interlude and sound effects that capture the listener’s attention and exit the podcast, leaving them wanting to tune in next time.References Dishon, N., Oldmeadow, J. A., Critchley, C., & Kaufman, J. (2017). The effect of trait self-awareness, self-reflection, and perceptions of choice meaningfulness on indicators of social identity within a decision-making context. Frontiers in Psychology, 8, 2034. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2017.02034 Curran, M. and Randall, A. K. (2020). Positionality statements. Wiley Online Library. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/pb-assets/assets/14756811/Positionality-Statements-16213545 17813.pdf Fraser, S. (2021, May 3). Understanding your social location as a facilitator. Active Bystander Intervention Training and Facilitation Guide. https://opentextbc.ca/svmbystander/chapter/understanding-your-social-location-as-a-facilitator GCSW. Grand Challenges for Social Work. (2024, February 2). GCSW. https://grandchallengesforsocialwork.org/ Holmes, A. G. D. (2020). Researcher Positionality: A consideration of its influence and place in qualitative research: A new research guide. International Journal of Education, 8(4), p1-10. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1268044.pdf Kanu, H. (2022). Incarceration is money-maker backed by “entrenched” incentives. Reuters. https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/incarceration-is-money-maker-backed-by-entrenched-incentives-2022-07-15 Kaushik, A. (2017). Use of Self in Social Work: Rhetoric or Reality. International Journal of Social Work Values and Ethics, 14(1), 21–29. https://www.jswve.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/10-014-106-JSWVE-2017.pdf Lochner, L., & Moretti, E. (2004, March). The effect of education on crime: Evidence from prison inmates, arrests, and self-reports. The American Economic Review, 94(1), 155–189. Romero, M.A. (2024). Capstone Proposal [Unpublished manuscript]. Simmons University. Romero, M.A. (2024). Comprehensive Exam [Unpublished manuscript]. Simmons University.
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    1 hr and 47 mins
  • Episode 4: Breaking Down Barriers: Addressing Educational Disparities Among Mexican American Teens: Addressing Specificity

    Episode 4: Breaking Down Barriers: Addressing Educational Disparities Among Mexican American Teens: Addressing Specificity
    Jun 7 2024
    Welcome to the Homeboy Podcast! Join Dr. Homeboy, Marco Antonio Romero, as he delves into the critical issue of educational disparities among Mexican American teenagers and their correlation to gang involvement. In this episode, Dr. Homeboy provides a detailed analysis of how these disparities ignite a cycle of adverse outcomes, including substance abuse, violence, and incarceration. He emphasizes the importance of specificity in research to understand and address the unique challenges faced by this population. Dr. Homeboy shares his journey as a Mexican American who navigated these same challenges, offering hope and alternative paths for the youth. He also highlights the role of intersectionality and the need for targeted, culturally competent interventions and research. Take advantage of this insightful episode that aims to educate and inspire change. Remember to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated and contribute to the conversation. Annotated Outline Episode Introduction The episode begins with an engaging music interlude and sound effects that capture the listener’s attention and set the ambiance for the podcast.Greet and introduce the podcast's title and host's name.Talking Point 1 Call to action: Audience engagement.Provide disclosure.Talking Point 2 Introduce the title of the episode and what will be covered.Talking Point 3 Introduce and provide research articles to sustain the significance of specificity.Talking Point 4 Introduce and provide research articles to discuss current research trends addressing specificity.Talking Point 5 Introduce and provide the significant challenges found in the literature to address specificity.Talking Point 6 Introduce and provide an overview of the literature.Talking Point 7 Introduce and provide the research of seminal studies to address specificity.Talking Point 8 Introduce and provide research on similar works that address specificity.Talking Point 9 Introduce and provide research on the gaps (gap analysis) in the literature regarding addressing specificity.Talking Point 10 Recap of the episode and key takeaways.Call to action.Talking Point 11 Final words.Exit the episode with an engaging music interlude and sound effects that capture the listener’s attention and exit the podcast, leaving them wanting to tune in next time.References Allen, V. C., Jr, Lachance, C., Rios-Ellis, B., & Kaphingst, K. A. (2011). Issues in the assessment of "race" among Latinos: Implications for research and policy. Hispanic journal of behavioral sciences, 33(4), 411–424. https://doi.org/10.1177/0739986311422880 Brantingham, P. J., Tita, G. E., & Mohler, G. (2021). Gang-related crime in Los Angeles remained stable following COVID-19 social distancing orders. Criminology & public policy, 20(3), 423–436. https://doi.org/10.1111/1745-9133.12541 Cherpitel, C. J., Karriker-Jaffe, K. J., Li, L., & Zemore, S. E. (2020). Neighborhood context and drug use among Mexican Americans on and off the U.S.-Mexico Border. Journal of studies on alcohol and drugs, 81(6), 770–779. https://doi.org/10.15288/jsad.2020.81.770 Coaston, J. (2019). The intersectionality wars. Vox. Cruz, C. A. (2016). Letting go of clecha, while holding corazón; Developing a new approach to empowering youth in gangs the homeboy industries way (Order No. 28478184). Available from ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global. (2512268550). https://ezproxy.simmons.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/dissertations-theses/letting-go-clecha-while-holding-corazón/docview/2512268550/se-2 Cucinotta, D., & Vanelli, M. (2020). WHO declares COVID-19 a pandemic. Acta bio-medica: Atenei Parmensis, 91(1), 157–160. https://doi.org/10.23750/abm.v91i1.9397 Donato, K. M., & Lopez, N. (2024). Protective resources, legal status, and the integration of U.S. immigrants entering as unaccompanied children. American Behavioral Scientist. https://doi.org/10.1177/00027642241229959 Grigsby, T. J., Forster, M., Soto, D. W., Baezconde-Garbanati, L., & Unger, J. B. (2014). Problematic substance use among Hispanic adolescents and young adults: implications for prevention efforts. Substance use & misuse, 49(8), 1025–1038. https://doi.org/10.3109/10826084.2013.852585 Hayes, R. (2023, March 29). Number of homicides in L.A. falls, but remains higher than pre-pandemic, LAPD report shows. ABC7 Los Angeles. https://abc7.com/los-angeles-homicides-lapd-report-crime-statistics/13037242/ Joseph, J. J. (2023). Unpacking unexplored psychological factors in alcohol and substance use in gang members. Crime & Delinquency. https://doi.org/10.1177/00111287231207378 Kelly, C., Kasperavicius, D., Duncan, D. (2021). ‘Doing’ or ‘using’ intersectionality? Opportunities and challenges in incorporating intersectionality into knowledge translation theory and practice. Int J Equity Health 20, 187 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12939-021-01509-z Kim, A. H., & White, M. J. (2010). Panethnicity, ethnic diversity, and residential ...
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    47 mins
  • Episode 3: Breaking Down Barriers: The Use of Self: A Journey from the Barrio to Social Work

    Episode 3: Breaking Down Barriers: The Use of Self: A Journey from the Barrio to Social Work
    May 31 2024

    Welcome to the Dr. Homeboy podcast, hosted by Marco Antonio Romero. In this engaging episode, Dr. Homeboy delves into the concept of "The Use of Self" in social work. With a combination of academic insights and personal anecdotes, Marco provides an in-depth understanding of how self-awareness and personal history can be powerful tools in social work interventions.

    Marco shares his own compelling life story, from growing up in a gang-infested barrio to serving in the United States Army and finally to his journey into social work. His positionality statement offers a transparent look at the intersecting identities that shape his perspective and mission.

    This episode serves as an educational resource aimed at helping male Mexican American teenagers disengage from gang activity and reintegrate into society. It also offers valuable insights for educators, mental health professionals, and community stakeholders.

    Tune in to explore the profound impact of personal experience in social work and discover the resources available to support at-risk youth. Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more inspiring content!

    Annotated Outline

    Episode Introduction

    1. The episode begins with an engaging music interlude and sound effects that capture the listener’s attention and set the ambiance for the podcast.
    2. Greet and introduce the podcast's title and host's name.

    Talking Point 1

    1. Call to action: Audience engagement.
    2. Provide disclosure.

    Talking Point 2

    1. Introduce the title of the episode and what will be covered.
    2. Define the “Use of Self.”
    3. Provide the author’s positionality statement.
    4. Provide the author’s story (life story).

    Talking Point 3

    1. Introduce and provide an article on the use of self.

    Talking Point 4

    1. Provide the author’s positionality statement.

    Talking Point 5

    1. Provide the author’s story (life story).

    Talking Point 6

    1. Recap of the episode and key takeaways.
    2. Call to action.

    Talking Point 7

    1. Final words.
    2. Exit the episode with an engaging music interlude and sound effects that capture the listener’s attention and exit the podcast, leaving them wanting to tune back in next time.

    References

    Kaushik, A. (2017). Use of Self in Social Work: Rhetoric or Reality. International Journal of Social Work Values and Ethics, 14(1), 21–29. https://www.jswve.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/10-014-106-JSWVE-2017.pdf

    Romero, M.A. (2024). Capstone Proposal [Unpublished manuscript]. Simmons University.

    Romero, M.A. (2024). Comprehensive Exam [Unpublished manuscript]. Simmons University.
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    47 mins
  • Episode 2: Breaking Down Barriers: The History and Education of Gang Involvement and Educational Disparities

    Episode 2: Breaking Down Barriers: The History and Education of Gang Involvement and Educational Disparities
    May 31 2024
    Welcome to the Dr. Homeboy Podcast, hosted by Marco Antonio Romero, also known as Dr. Homeboy. In this episode, we delve into the history and education surrounding gang involvement, with a focus on low-income Mexican American communities. This episode, titled "History and Education" or "Clecha," provides educational and historical content to offer hope and alternative paths for the youth. Dr. Homeboy discusses the systemic educational disparities that contribute to gang involvement, tracing back to the inception of the United States. The episode covers the historical background of these disparities, the impact of gangs on communities, and the theories that inform Dr. Homeboy's work. These theories, including humanistic theory, critical race theory, and the cognitive theory of multimedia learning, have practical implications that can be applied to real-life situations. Listeners will gain insight into the complexities of educational inequalities, the formation and influence of gangs, and the importance of addressing these issues holistically. Tune in to learn more about the power of education, the systemic challenges marginalized communities face, and how we can work towards a brighter future. Remember to like, comment, and subscribe to the Dr. Homeboy Podcast for more educational content and to share your thoughts and stories. Your active participation is encouraged and valued. Join us for the next episode as Dr. Homeboy shares his personal journey and positionality statement. Annotated Outline Episode Introduction The episode begins with an engaging music interlude and sound effects that capture the listener’s attention and set the ambiance for the podcast.Greet and introduce the podcast's title and host's name.Provide disclosure.Talking Point 1 Introduce the title of the episode and what will be covered.Call to action: Audience engagement.The issue at hand is gang involvement, and we will explore it in more depth.The historical background of educational disparities.The History of gangs and their impact on our youth/youngsters and our communities.This is a detailed description of the theories previously described in episode one, which are Humanistic Theory, Critical Race Theory (CRT), and the cognitive theory of multimedia learning.Talking Point 2 Provide a history of educational disparities.Talking Point 3 History of gangs and their impact on this population, their community, our country, and the world.Talking Point 4 Define, describe, and cover the history of the theories that this podcast is grounded on.Humanistic theory.Critical race theory (CRT).The cognitive theory of multimedia learning.Talking Point 5 Recap of the episode and key takeaways.Call to action.Talking Point 6 Final words.Exit the episode with an engaging music interlude and sound effects that capture the listener’s attention and exit the podcast, leaving them wanting to tune back in next time.References Acevedo-Polakovich, I. D., Boress, K. S., Grzybowski, M. M., Richards, A. E., Bell, K. M., Crider, E. A., Beck, K. L., Ojeda, L., Bustos, T. E., Alfaro, M., Stout, S., Barnett, M. L., Kassab, V. A., & Suchita R. Saxena, S. R. (2018). Fatherhood among gang-involved U.S. Latino youth: Qualitative inquiry into key stakeholders’ perspectives. Journal of Latinx Psychology. 7(2), 137–153. https://doi.org/10.1037/lat0000111 Bhatti, S., & Merritt, K. L. (2022a). Classism. Boston University. https://www.bu.edu/antiracism-center/files/2022/06/Classism.pdf Blatchford, C. (2008). The black hand: The bloody rise and redemption of "Boxer" Enriquez, a Mexican mob killer. New York: Morrow. Brantingham, P. J., Tita, G. E., & Mohler, G. (2021). Gang-related crime in Los Angeles remained stable following COVID-19 social distancing orders. Criminology & public policy, 20(3), 423–436. https://doi.org/10.1111/1745-9133.12541 Bruno, R. A. (1992). Who built America? Transformations: The Journal of Inclusive Scholarship and Pedagogy, 3(1), 43–46. http://www.jstor.org/stable/43507026 CA. (n.d.). Fourteenth Amendment. Constitution Annotated. https://constitution.congress.gov/browse/amendment-14/ Casey, L. (2018, April 5). The gangs of L.A. Medium. https://medium.com/@laurencasey/the-gangs-of-l-a-d937bc26d1a1 Ceballo, R., Maurizi, L. K., Suarez, G. A., & Aretakis, M. T. (2014). Gift and sacrifice: Parental involvement in Latino adolescents’ education. Cultural Diversity and Ethnic Minority Psychology, 20(1), 116–127. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0033472 CDOE. (2022, June 9). Education budget. California Department of Education. https://www.cde.ca.gov/fg/fr/eb/cefedbudget.asp Cruz, C. A. (2016). Letting go of clecha, while holding corazón; Developing a new approach to empowering youth in gangs the homeboy industries way (Order No. 28478184). Available from ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global. (2512268550). https://ezproxy.simmons.edu/login?url=https://www.proquest.com/dissertations-theses/...
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    43 mins
  • Episode 1: Breaking Down Barriers: An Introduction to the Dr. Homeboy Podcast: The Why

    Episode 1: Breaking Down Barriers: An Introduction to the Dr. Homeboy Podcast: The Why
    May 31 2024
    Welcome to the inaugural episode of the Dr. Homeboy Podcast, hosted by Marco Antonio Romero, a doctoral candidate at Simmons University. This episode introduces the podcast and outlines its purpose and intended audience. Marco, affectionately known as Dr. Homeboy, addresses teenage male Mexican-Americans involved in gang activities. He explains the challenges they face, such as substance abuse, violence, and juvenile delinquency, and the difficulties in disengaging from such lifestyles. This podcast's mission is to provide valuable resources, personal stories, and educational content to help these young individuals reintegrate into society confidently and without retribution. Marco shares his journey and emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding in addressing these issues. Through this podcast, you will gain insights into the historical context of the impact of educational disparities and, most importantly, the power of community support systems. We believe in the strength of involvement and the importance of your role in our community unity. Join us to explore how the Dr. Homeboy Podcast is dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of young Mexican Americans. We offer not just hope but practical solutions for a brighter future, inspiring you to believe in a life beyond gang activities. Annotated Outline Episode Introduction The episode begins with an engaging music interlude and sound effects that capture the listener’s attention and set the ambiance for the podcast.Greet and introduce the podcast's title and host's name.Introduce the title of the episode and what will be covered.Talking Point 1 Introduce and discuss the target audience for this podcast.Define gang involvement.A brief explanation of why this population was chosen.Talking Point 2 Provide the author’s mission statement.Provide the author’s vision statement.Reason for the title of the podcast.History and definition of the origins of the term homeboy.Talking Point 3 A break to lighten up the podcast, state where the author grew up.Engage with the audience about where they are located and where they grew up.Talking Point 4 Introduce the issue that the podcast is addressing.Introduce the theories that the podcast is grounded on.Humanistic theory.Critical race theory (CRT).The cognitive theory of multimedia learning.How this podcast is novel and how it will be done.Introduce the “use of self.”Define harnessing technology to decrease gang involvement.Define prisoner reintegration.Talking Point 5 Recap of the episode and key takeaways.Call to action.Provide a disclosure.Talking Point 6 Final words.Exit the episode with an engaging music interlude and sound effects that capture the listener’s attention and exit the podcast, leaving them wanting to tune back in next time.References Delgado, R., & Stefancic, J. (2023). Critical race theory, fourth edition: An introduction. New York University Press. Garcia, M. (2022, June 8). Pachucos, Chicano homeboys, and gypsy caló: Transmission of a speech style. Explorations in Ethnic Studies. https://www.academia.edu/81035955/Pachucos_Chicano_Homeboys_and_Gypsy_Cal%C3%B3_Transmission_of_a_Speech_Style GCSW. Grand Challenges for Social Work. (2024, February 2). GCSW. https://grandchallengesforsocialwork.org/ Kaushik, A. (2017). Use of Self in Social Work: Rhetoric or Reality. International Journal of Social Work Values and Ethics, 14(1), 21–29. https://www.jswve.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/10-014-106-JSWVE-2017.pdf Lochner, L., & Moretti, E. (2004, March). The effect of education on crime: Evidence from prison inmates, arrests, and self-reports. The American Economic Review, 94(1), 155–189. McNamara, S. Drew, C. (2019) Concept analysis of the theories used to develop educational podcasts. Educational Media International, 56(4), 300-312. https://doi.org/10.1080/09523987.2019.1681107 Romero, M.A. (2024). Capstone Proposal [Unpublished manuscript]. Simmons University. Winston, C. N. (2016). An existential-humanistic-positive theory of human motivation. The Humanistic Psychologist, 44(2), 142–163. https://doi.org/10.1037/hum0000028
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    42 mins
  • Intro: Breaking Down Barriers: Uniting Individuals and Communities through History, Facts, Personal Stories, and Resources

    Intro: Breaking Down Barriers: Uniting Individuals and Communities through History, Facts, Personal Stories, and Resources
    May 15 2024

    Welcome everyone to the introduction episode of Dr. Homeboy Podcast. In this episode, the host and creator, Marco Antonio Romero, a doctoral candidate for the Doctor of Social Work at Simmons University, introduces himself to the audience. Marco shares his heart for thriving individuals and communities and reveals the mission behind this podcast.

    Through the Dr. Homeboy Podcast, Marco Antonio Romero intends to provide history, perspective, personal stories, and resources to those in need. By leveraging the podcast platform, he can deliver these resources in a confidential, accessible manner, ensuring that no one has to fear retribution and that everyone can use the resources when and as they need them.

    As we dive into this journey with Marco Antonio Romero, expect to gain insights, knowledge, and resources that will inspire and equip you to contribute to a thriving society. Thank you for tuning into the Dr. Homeboy Podcast.
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    1 min