What does it mean to truly believe, I am enough? In Episode 28 of Fierce Conversations with Toby, we sit down with Tanaine Jenkins, whose incredible journey from incarceration to self-empowerment is a testament to the transformative power of second chances.
Tanaine’s story is one of resilience, self-discovery, and the courage to rewrite her narrative. It reminds us that while society often sees people through the lens of their past mistakes, our worth is not determined by where we’ve been but by where we choose to go.
Breaking Free from Shame
After giving 10 years of her life to the Florida Department of Corrections, Tanaine Jenkins has dedicated her voice to shining a light on the Second Sentence that Returning Citizens face once they are released from confinement.
Tanaine is the best-selling author of From Prison to President: 7 Ways to Succeed in Your Second Chance, the President of Everything I Am LLC, the CEO of The Loc’d Line, a member of the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition Policy Council, and a 2022 TEDx Jacksonville speaker.
She has also been featured in Forbes, on the CW Channel and PBS. Through her company, Everything I Am, Tanaine has helped hundreds of returning citizens and justice involved individuals find their ‘Why’ and learn the power of self-forgiveness.
Finding “Enough”
One of the most powerful moments in Tanaine’s story is her realization that she didn’t need to earn her worth. She was already enough. Society often tells us that second chances must be “deserved,” but Tanaine challenges this notion, showing us that everyone has inherent value, regardless of their past.
She describes the turning point when she stopped looking outward for validation and began building an unshakable foundation of self-love and self-respect. This shift empowered her to pursue new opportunities, mend relationships, and, most importantly, forgive herself.
A Second Chance at Life
Tanaine’s journey highlights the importance of second chances—not just in the eyes of others, but within ourselves. Whether it’s securing employment, reconnecting with loved ones, or simply waking up each day ready to try again, second chances are what keep us moving forward.
In the episode, Tanaine calls for a more compassionate approach to people reentering society after incarceration. “We’re all more than our worst moment,” she says. “But we need systems and communities that recognize that truth.”
Toby’s Reflection
Toby reflects on her own journey through incarceration and redemption, echoing Tanaine’s sentiments. “Second chances aren’t just about a new opportunity—they’re about believing in the possibility of transformation,” Toby shares.
Both Toby and Tanaine know that second chances are often hard-won. They require persistence, self-awareness, and a support system that sees the potential for change.
The Fierce Call to Action
Tanaine’s story challenges all of us to think about how we offer second chances—not just to others, but to ourselves.
- For Those Seeking Second Chances: Remember, you are enough. Your past does not define your future.
- For Those Who Can Give Second Chances: Whether as an employer, a mentor, or a friend, your belief in someone’s potential can be life-changing.
Join the Conversation
Tanaine Jenkins’s story is proof that second chances aren’t just possible—they’re essential. Tune in to Episode 28, I Am Enough, and discover how embracing second chances can change lives, one bold step at a time.
#SecondChances #IAmEnough #FierceConversations
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