Opening Doors
“Opening Doors” is a transformative podcast focused on healing from the traumas of incarceration and drug addiction, hosted by Rachel Dalinka. With over 25 years of experience in developing and delivering educational programs, and 8 years focused on programming for underserved communities, Rachel combines her expertise with her personal journey of growing up with an addicted and incarcerated father. Her mission is to break the stigmas and silence surrounding these issues, fostering open and healing conversations. Each episode features heartfelt storytelling and insightful interviews with formerly incarcerated individuals, people in recovery, experts in trauma and recovery, and family members. The podcast sheds light on the emotional, psychological, and social complexities of reintegration and overcoming addiction. Listeners gain strategies for overcoming shame, rediscovering purpose, and leveraging community resources and mental health support. “Opening Doors” is more than a podcast; it’s part of a movement towards empathy, understanding, and hope. It aims to create a community where stories of resilience, recovery, and redemption inspire listeners to embark on their own journeys of transformation. The show aims to break down barriers of stigma and advocate for a future where everyone has the support and understanding needed to move beyond their past. Join us in navigating these challenges and celebrating the victories of spirit and strength.
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Honoring a Son’s Legacy: The Story Behind The Jahmil Harris Foundation
10/01/2024
Honoring a Son’s Legacy: The Story Behind The Jahmil Harris Foundation
In this powerful episode of the Opening Doors Podcast, host Rachel Dalinka connects with Tammy Harris, founder of the Jahmil Harris Foundation. Tammy shares her deeply personal story of loss and the journey that led her to create the foundation in memory of her son, Jahmil. Through this organization, she provides support to communities affected by gun violence and helps young people with opportunities for education and employment. Tammy’s story is one of resilience, as she turns unimaginable grief into a mission to uplift others. Her work demonstrates the healing power of community and faith, and her message is an inspiring call to action for all of us to become part of the solution to the issues plaguing our communities. Episode Takeaways: The Jahmil Harris Foundation was founded after the tragic loss of Tammy’s son, Jahmil, to gun violence. The foundation supports communities affected by violence, providing resources like job opportunities and mental health support. The foundation organizes basketball clinics for young people to honor Jahmill's passion for the sport. Tammy’s journey showcases the importance of turning pain into purpose, with a strong emphasis on the role of faith and community in healing. The foundation's events, such as feeding the homeless and mental health support programs, have made a positive impact on many lives. Tammy’s story encourages others to find strength through grief and to support their communities in meaningful ways. Key Resources and Links Mentioned: Jahmil Harris Foundation Website: National mental health hotline: Dial 988 for crisis support. Books: What Happened To You: Conversations on Trauma, Resilience and Healing – Oprah and Dr. Bruce Perry The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind and Body in the Healing of Trauma – Dr. Bessel van der Kolk Support Groups-Resources: Grief Support Resources for Parents Who Have Lost Children to Gun Violence: The Compassionate Friends non-profit organization exists to provide friendship, understanding, and hope to those going through the natural grieving process: Adult Children of Alcoholics & Dysfunctional Families: Co-Dependents Anonymous (CODA): Children of Incarcerated Parents: CAP4Kids -Philadelphia: Rainbows for All Children: Support for Children dealing with Grief from many traumas, including incarcerated parents: We Got Us Now: National Resource Center on Children & Families of the Incarcerated – Rutgers Camden: Youth.Gov: Children of Incarcerated Parents: Sesame workshop: If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe to the Opening Doors Podcast and share it with others who might benefit from these stories. Please visit for resources and to subscribe to the newsletter. Remember, healing is a journey, and you don’t have to walk it alone. Let’s open those doors together! Opening Door Podcast Music by John Abella
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Faith, Redemption, and Reentry: A Conversation with Jonathan Lewis
09/17/2024
Faith, Redemption, and Reentry: A Conversation with Jonathan Lewis
In this compelling episode of the Opening Doors Podcast, host Rachel Dalinka sits down with Jonathan Lewis, the Executive Director of Life Abundant Prison Ministries, to explore his remarkable journey from incarceration to becoming a leader in prison ministry. Jonathan opens up about his early years, the challenges he faced while navigating the criminal justice system, and the profound transformation he experienced through spirituality and faith. He discusses how his renewed sense of purpose led him to dedicate his life to helping others on similar paths, particularly through his work with Life Abundant Prison Ministries. The episode also delves into the complexities of reentry for formerly incarcerated individuals, the importance of coordinated support systems, and the role family members can play in supporting their loved ones. Jonathan shares insightful perspectives on what can be done within the justice system to reduce mass incarceration and improve outcomes for those transitioning back into society. Episode Takeaways: Jonathan Lewis shares his personal story of transformation from a life of crime and incarceration to becoming a key figure in prison ministry. The critical role spirituality played in Jonathan’s journey and how it can provide a foundation for change for others in similar situations. Insights into the work of Life Abundant Prison Ministries in providing religious services, mentoring, and reentry programs for incarcerated individuals. The significance of a coordinated support system involving housing, employment, and rehabilitation to ensure successful reentry and reduce recidivism. Challenges families face when supporting incarcerated loved ones and practical advice on navigating the prison system. Discussion on reforming probation laws to avoid unnecessarily lengthy probation periods that contribute to high rates of re-incarceration. Key Resources and Links Mentioned: Life Abundant Prison Ministries - Information about their programs and services: Bucks County Reentry Coalition - Resources for families and formerly incarcerated individuals: Wheaton College - Where Jonathan pursued continuing education in religious studies: Programs in Bucks County aimed at reducing recidivism, like recovery courts and wellness courts Books: What Happened To You: Conversations on Trauma, Resilience and Healing – Oprah and Dr. Bruce Perry The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind and Body in the Healing of Trauma – Dr. Bessel van der Kolk Support Groups-Resources: Adult Children of Alcoholics & Dysfunctional Families: Co-Dependents Anonymous (CODA): Children of Incarcerated Parents: CAP4Kids -Philadelphia: Rainbows for All Children: Support for Children dealing with Grief from many traumas, including incarcerated parents: We Got Us Now: National Resource Center on Children & Families of the Incarcerated – Rutgers Camden: Youth.Gov: Children of Incarcerated Parents: Sesame workshop: If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe to the Opening Doors Podcast and share it with others who might benefit from these stories. Please visit for resources and to subscribe to the newsletter. Remember, healing is a journey, and you don’t have to walk it alone. Let’s open those doors together! Opening Door Podcast Music by John Abella
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From Incarceration to Inspiration: Wayne "Jamaal" Garrett's Journey
09/03/2024
From Incarceration to Inspiration: Wayne "Jamaal" Garrett's Journey
In this episode of the Opening Doors Podcast, host Rachel Dalinka sits down with Wayne "Jamaal" Garrett, a community engagement and reentry coordinator for Uplift Solutions and president of the Uplift Alumni Association. Wayne shares his compelling journey from incarceration to becoming a leader in workforce development for justice-impacted individuals. He discusses the systemic challenges faced by formerly incarcerated people, the transformative power of support systems, and the importance of empathy and understanding in reentry programs. Wayne’s story is a testament to resilience, growth, and the potential for positive change even in the most challenging circumstances. Episode Takeaways: Wayne Garrett’s Journey: From a troubled youth in Southwest Philadelphia to incarceration and finally finding purpose and leadership in community engagement. Challenges of Reentry: Insight into the difficulties faced by formerly incarcerated individuals, including finding employment and the social stigma that persists. Importance of Support Systems: How crucial family and community support are for successful reentry and preventing recidivism. Need for Systemic Change: Discussion on the flaws in the current justice and prison systems, including mandatory sentencing and lack of rehabilitative support. Personal Growth and Transformation: Wayne's personal growth through his experiences and his drive to help others avoid the pitfalls he encountered. Resources and Links Mentioned in This Episode: Uplift Solutions: An organization focused on workforce development and support for justice-impacted individuals. "Warrant for Blood" by J. Legacy Fambrough: A book written by Wayne detailing his life experiences. The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness by Michelle Alexander: A book mentioned in the discussion about systemic issues in the justice system. Books: What Happened To You: Conversations on Trauma, Resilience and Healing – Oprah and Dr. Bruce Perry The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind and Body in the Healing of Trauma – Dr. Bessel van der Kolk Support Groups-Resources: Adult Children of Alcoholics & Dysfunctional Families: Co-Dependents Anonymous (CODA) - Children of Incarcerated Parents: CAP4Kids -Philadelphia: Rainbows for All Children: Support for Children dealing with Grief from many traumas, including incarcerated parents We Got Us Now: National Resource Center on Children & Families of the Incarcerated – Rutgers Camden: Children of Incarcerated Parents: - Sesame workshop: If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe to the Opening Doors Podcast and share it with others who might benefit from these stories. Please visit for resources and to subscribe to the newsletter. Remember, healing is a journey, and you don’t have to walk it alone. Let’s open those doors together. Music by John Abella
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From Chaos to Clarity: My Story of Healing
08/20/2024
From Chaos to Clarity: My Story of Healing
In this powerful inaugural episode of the Opening Doors Podcast, host Rachel Dalinka opens up about her deeply personal journey through trauma, addiction, and healing. Rachel shares her story of growing up with a father who was a brilliant attorney but also struggled with cocaine addiction, leading to a tumultuous childhood marked by chaos, loss, and shame. Through candid reflections, Rachel discusses the impact of trauma on her life and how she has worked to overcome it. She introduces the “Four S’s”—Support, Self-care, Service, and Spirituality—as key components of her healing process. This episode sets the tone for the podcast, which aims to provide a platform for sharing stories of overcoming adversity, fostering understanding, and finding hope and resilience. Episode Takeaways: Trauma can significantly impact both childhood and adult life, but it is possible to heal and grow from it. The “Four S’s” (Support, Self-care, Service, and Spirituality) are vital tools for healing from trauma. Sharing personal stories and connecting with others can reduce the burden of shame and isolation. Healing is a continuous journey that involves addressing and working through past traumas. It’s important to find a higher power or source of strength, whatever that may be for each individual. Key Resources and Links Mentioned: Coda Third Step Prayer: EMDR Therapy: Books: What Happened To You: Conversations on Trauma, Resilience and Healing – Oprah and Dr. Bruce Perry The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind and Body in the Healing of Trauma – Dr. Bessel van der Kolk Support Groups-Resources: Adult Children of Alcoholics & Dysfunctional Families: Co-Dependents Anonymous (CODA) - Children of Incarcerated Parents: CAP4Kids -Philadelphia: Rainbows for All Children: Support for Children dealing with Grief from many traumas, including incarcerated parents We Got Us Now: National Resource Center on Children & Families of the Incarcerated – Rutgers Camden: Children of Incarcerated Parents: - Sesame workshop: If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe to the Opening Doors Podcast and share it with others who might benefit from these stories. Please visit for resources and to subscribe to the newsletter. Remember, healing is a journey, and you don’t have to walk it alone. Let’s open those doors together.
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Welcome to the Opening Doors Podcast!
08/13/2024
Welcome to the Opening Doors Podcast!
Welcome to the "Opening Doors" podcast, where healing and redemption take center stage. Hosted by Rachel Dalinka, this podcast draws from her personal experiences with her father's battle against addiction and incarceration, and her extensive 25-year career in education and facilitation. "Opening Doors" is a safe space for open dialogues on overcoming life's traumas, reframing experiences, and finding new purpose. Whether you’ve been affected by incarceration, addiction, or are simply a believer in second chances, this podcast offers empathy, understanding, and hope. Subscribe and join us biweekly as we celebrate the victories of spirit, advocate for recovery, and work toward a more compassionate society.
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