“Let me work on being the best possible version of myself and let the chips fall where they fall. You can’t change things that are outside your control, but you can change yourself.”
-Dr. Yehudah Pryce

Dr. Yehudah Pryce is a licensed clinical social worker and advocate for criminal justice reform. Previously incarcerated for over 16 years, Dr. Pryce has transformed his life, earning his doctorate in social work from Simmons University after obtaining his master’s degree from the University of Southern California. He is now a pillar in his community, working to support formerly incarcerated individuals and promote systemic change in the criminal justice system.

Dr. Pryce shares his journey from gang affiliation to academic success and community leadership. He discusses the challenges he faced in prison, including his decision to convert to Orthodox Judaism and pursue education despite limited resources. Dr. Pryce emphasizes the importance of finding purpose and committing to personal growth, even in the most challenging circumstances. He highlights how his religious transformation and educational pursuits became powerful tools for rehabilitation and reentry success. The conversation also touches on the systemic issues within the criminal justice system, particularly the outsized power of district attorneys and the need for more meaningful work opportunities for incarcerated individuals.

Outline:
(00:00:00) Introduction of Dr. Yehudah Pryce
(00:01:38) Dr. Pryce’s background and path to incarceration
(00:04:01) Details of Dr. Pryce’s sentence and time served
(00:06:55) Religious transformation and gang disaffiliation in prison
(00:09:46) Educational journey in prison and after release
(00:14:16) Impact of Judaism on reentry success
(00:17:38) Advice for incarcerated individuals at a crossroads
(00:20:22) The power of commitment and leading by example
(00:23:59) Dr. Pryce’s perspective on social justice and activism
(00:26:18) Family’s reaction to Dr. Pryce’s transformation
(00:27:28) Experiences as a Black man practicing Orthodox Judaism
(00:29:31) The importance of living a meaningful life while incarcerated
(00:34:54) Changes in prison programs and opportunities
(00:36:42) Discussion on criminal justice reform
(00:39:20) Closing remarks and appreciation

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