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, and the mindset shift that helped him rebuild his life.

One of the most moving parts of this conversation is when Marcus opens his "Book of Life" — a notebook filled with journal entries he wrote while incarcerated. We read one of those raw and reflective passages on air.

This is more than a story of redemption — it’s a testament to resilience, growth, and the power of owning your narrative.

Don’t miss this unforgettable episode.
Real stories. Real lessons. Real Lansing.

Real stories. Real lessons. Real Lansing.

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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, how those moments shaped our perspectives, and how his unwavering commitment to change opened doors for both personal and professional development. This episode is a deep and honest conversation between two brothers who understand the cost of the past and the value of redemption.

Stay tuned—this is just part one. Brother David X will return soon for a deeper dive into his work, wisdom, and walk. Don’t miss it.

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 his sense of self during and after his time behind the wall. After serving 29 years as a juvenile lifer in Michigan, he walks us through the realities of reentry, radical faith, and resilient hope.

We dive deep into:

• The abolition of the carceral system
• The culture shift in prison over three decades
• The rise in gang population and what that shift meant on the inside
• The question: "Can you truly get better in prison?"
• And I ask the layered, sometimes polarizing question: "Can a woman raise a man?"

This is not just a conversation—it's a window into survival, belief, and the pursuit of purpose beyond the cage.

Tap in. Reflect. Share.

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