Today’s episode is genuinely special to me. You’ll hear from Derek, my college teacher, who played a monumental role in my journey toward redemption and transformation. When I first returned to education after serving time in prison, I was filled with self-doubt and uncertainty. Derek's unwavering belief in me and his unique approach to teaching psychology brought about a profound change in my life.

We'll dive into Derek’s background, his inspiring transition from a life in the Royal Air Force to becoming an empowering educator, and how he applied the study of psychology to everyday challenges. Through our conversation, you’ll see the power of supportive mentorship and clear expectations, making education more than just acquiring knowledge – it’s about reclaiming one's sense of purpose and potential.

Together, we reflect on the struggles and breakthroughs that come with re-entering society and the classroom after imprisonment. Derek and I also explore the parallels between our experiences in different institutional settings – Derek, as a former serviceman, and me as a former inmate – and how we used those experiences to build a meaningful connection.

What makes this episode incredibly moving is revisiting the critical life events that marked this journey, including the profound impact of my mother’s passing and how Derek supported me through that difficult time. It's a story of resilience, grace under pressure, and the pursuit of a second chance.

Join us as we unpack these personal stories, providing insights into restorative justice's enduring power and the redeeming potential education holds. This episode is a testament to the transformative impact that accountability, empathy, and a strong support system can have.

Tune in to feel inspired and to understand that our past does not define us – it's our choices and the people who believe in us that do.

00:03:13 Derek’s Role at the College. Derek explains his role as Head of Academy, where he supported students who had struggled in traditional school settings—something I could relate to.

00:04:34 An Unexpected Teaching Role. Derek shares how he unexpectedly became a psychology teacher after a surge in student interest, a decision that would end up shaping both of our journeys.

00:06:11 Why I Joined Derek’s Class. I talk about what drew me to psychology and why I felt I needed someone like Derek to hold me accountable and guide me as I tried to rebuild my life.

00:07:36 Building a Supportive Learning Environment. Derek describes how he created a structured yet encouraging space in the classroom, helping students—including me—develop teamwork and confidence.

00:10:18 Opening Up About My Past. I share the moment I decided to tell Derek about my time in prison—a decision that deepened our trust and changed the way I approached learning.

00:12:57 Leaving Institutions Behind. Derek and I reflect on the mental and emotional challenges of leaving structured environments—me from prison, and him from the armed forces—and how we both had to adapt.

00:14:52 How Psychology Changed My Perspective. Studying psychology wasn’t just about passing exams—it helped me understand my own behaviour, break free from old patterns, and see the world differently.

00:19:45 My Growth in the Classroom. Derek recalls how I went from sitting quietly in class to actively engaging and even helping others understand complex ideas—something I never imagined myself doing.

00:21:05 Coping with Personal Loss. I open up about one of the toughest moments of my life—losing my mum just before exams—and how Derek’s support helped me push through that grief and keep going.

00:24:27 The Moment It All Paid Off. I reflect on the day I

Welcome to another episode of Right From Wrong. I’m Jacob Dunne, and today, I’m sharing one of the most pivotal chapters of my journey—one that completely reshaped my understanding of accountability, forgiveness, and the power of restorative justice.

In this episode, I’m honoured to be joined by two incredible women who have profoundly impacted my life: Joan Schofield and Nicola. Joan is the mother of James Hodgkinson, the young man whose life was tragically cut short because of my actions in 2011. Her strength, courage, and willingness to engage in restorative justice changed both of our lives in ways I could never have imagined. Nicola, a restorative justice practitioner, was instrumental in guiding our conversations, helping us navigate the complex emotions and difficult questions that arose throughout this journey.

Together, we reflect on the long and often painful path from punishment to redemption. You’ll hear about the initial questions Joan had for me, the difficult but necessary conversations Nicola facilitated, and how those moments forced me to truly take responsibility and begin the process of healing. Joan’s story is a powerful testament to the impact of restorative justice—not just for those who commit crimes, but for the victims and their families seeking answers, closure, and a way forward.

We also discuss the bigger picture, exploring how restorative justice offers a path to healing and understanding that traditional punitive systems often overlook. Joan and Nicola share their insights into how this approach can break cycles of harm, foster reconciliation, and create meaningful change in communities.

This is a deeply personal and emotional dialogue, filled with moments of vulnerability, honesty, and hope. It’s a reminder that even in our darkest moments, the choices we make next can lead to profound change and healing.

Join me as we unpack these themes and share how, through open communication and mutual understanding, we all found a way to move forward. If you’re curious about the deep impact of restorative justice and the power of human connection, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

00:01:05 My Journey from Excuses to Accountability. I reflect on my struggles post-conviction and how making excuses held me back—until I realised the importance of taking responsibility and truly understanding the impact of my actions.

00:02:55 Meeting Joan and Nicola. I introduce Joan, the mother of the young man I killed, and Nicola, the facilitator who guided our restorative justice journey, and I share how much they have influenced my life.

00:04:32 The Role of Nicola in Restorative Justice. Nicola explains the process of restorative justice, including the careful steps taken to ensure both sides feel safe and supported before engaging in direct dialogue.

00:05:58 What Restorative Justice Really Means. Nicola defines restorative justice and explains how it provides an opportunity for victims and offenders to understand each other’s perspectives, leading to potential healing and accountability.

00:11:41 My First Meeting with Nicola. Nicola recalls our first conversation, where my remorse was clear, and how she conveyed my emotional state to Joan and David, deepening mutual understanding.

00:13:45 The First Questions Joan Had for Me. Joan had many difficult but important questions about that night—questions that pushed me to confront the reality of what I had done and be completely honest about my actions.

00:16:43 Joan’s Hopes for My Future. Joan shares why she wanted to see me change, how she wanted to...

In this episode of Right From Wrong, I'm taking you on an incredibly personal journey alongside someone who has been instrumental in my path to redemption: Wendy, my probation officer from all those years ago. When my life was at its lowest point, Wendy stepped in to help me navigate the complexities of probation, the court system, and, most importantly, myself.

We'll be diving deep into the transformative period when I first met Wendy—shy, confused, and absolutely terrified—right through to the moment I decided to take part in restorative justice. Wendy's unwavering support, insight, and persistence have been pivotal in my journey from punishment to accountability and ultimately, to redemption.

We'll explore how Wendy played a critical role not just in keeping tabs on me during probation but in pushing me toward opportunities that fostered my growth. From suffering the bewilderment of pre-sentencing to facing the raw emotions of communicating with my victim's parents, every step was crucial, and Wendy was there through it all.

This episode is particularly special because it showcases the power of compassionate guidance and the ripple effect it can have on someone's life, emphasizing the human side of the justice system. Wendy and I reflect on those dark, uncertain times and celebrate the milestones that have shaped my life today.

Tune in to hear Wendy's perspective on how restorative justice can change lives and the emotional conversations that underpin the essence of true accountability. Whether you're curious about restorative justice, interested in stories of redemption, or simply in need of a bit of hope, this episode has something to offer.

00:01:43 Meeting Wendy – A Lifeline in a Dark Time. I introduce Wendy, my probation officer, and share how I was first connected with her through a family friend who was concerned about my wellbeing.

00:02:52 Wendy’s First Impressions of Me. Wendy recalls meeting me for the first time—quiet, withdrawn, and completely overwhelmed. She tried to explain the court process to me while I struggled to take it all in.

00:04:18 Pre-Sentencing Recommendations. Wendy explains why she recommended a minimal custodial sentence to the judge, believing that my age and personal circumstances should be considered in my rehabilitation.

00:05:40 How Prison Changed Me. Wendy reflects on the transformation she saw in me six months into my sentence—how I hardened up to survive the environment and the impact that had on my mindset.

00:06:57 Being Released on New Year’s Eve. Wendy shares her concerns about my release date falling on New Year’s Eve—worrying that I might celebrate the wrong way and fall straight back into old habits.

00:07:41 Struggling to Find Stability After Prison. Wendy and I discuss the harsh reality of life after release—how difficult it was to find stable housing and how she stepped in to try and help me get back on my feet.

00:10:00 Respect in the Wrong Context. I talk about the so-called "respect" I received when I got out—how some people in my neighbourhood saw me as someone to be admired for going to prison, rather than seeing the harm I had caused.

00:11:00 Wendy’s Support and Concern for Me. Wendy explains how vulnerable people are when they come out of prison and why stability is so important. She also shares how she tried to guide me through this difficult transition.

00:12:02 My Introduction to Restorative Justice. Wendy remembers getting the initial call about restorative justice and admits she didn’t know much about it at the time—until my case made it clear how powerful it could be.

00:14:00 Hearing David and Joan’s Letter for the First Time. Wendy describes the...

On this first episode of Right From Wrong, we're delving deep into stories of transformation, brotherhood, and the harsh realities of growing up in challenging environments. I'm joined by my close friend, Akai Douglas, who was there the night my single punch tragically ended a life. Akai stands as a testament to resilience and change, having faced his own life-altering challenges.

Together, we reflect on our shared journey from the vibrant yet often dangerous nights out in Nottingham’s Meadows to grappling with the repercussions of a heartbreaking event that changed many lives forever. Akai recounts the moments leading up to my imprisonment, the police investigations that ensued, and the support systems—or lack thereof—that we encountered.

We also touch on Akai’s own extraordinary struggle following a violent attack he endured and his inspiring decision to channel that pain into becoming a campaigner for change and justice. From the visceral fear of those dark days to our ongoing quests for redemption, this conversation is packed with raw honesty and powerful insights.

Join us as we uncover the complexities of loyalty, the heavy toll of our past actions, and the hopeful paths we now tread in our efforts to make amends and build better futures. This episode is more than just a story—it's a call to understand, to empathise, and to drive meaningful change.

00:02:26 Akai’s Perspective on the Meadows. Akai shares his view on the Meadows, a place we both knew well—one that carried both beauty and danger. He reflects on its isolation and the tight-knit social fabric that shaped us.

00:03:29 Nights Out and Youthful Rivalries. Akai and I look back on our nights out as teenagers—moments filled with energy, excitement, and sometimes, conflict. We talk about the blend of camaraderie and rivalry that shaped our youth.

00:07:19 Challenges of Growing Up in a Tough Environment. We reflect on the pressures of growing up in a place where conflict was constant and proving yourself felt like a necessity.

00:11:33 The Life-Altering Punch. I revisit the night I threw a fatal punch—the moment that changed my life and so many others. Akai shares his memories of the immediate aftermath, the community’s reaction, and the overwhelming police presence that followed.

00:14:44 Facing the Consequences. Akai and I discuss the intense pressure that followed—from the police, from our community, and from within ourselves. The fear, the uncertainty, and the realisation that life as we knew it was about to change forever.

00:16:15 The Code of Silence and Snitching. We explore the unspoken rules of our environment—how the “no snitching” culture impacted everything, and the internal conflict I felt as people began coming forward with the truth.

00:17:06 Court and Prison Memories. Akai recalls supporting me through my court appearances and during my time in prison. We talk about the emotional and physical toll this took on both of us.

00:20:15 Support and Friendship. Akai was one of the people who stood by me when I got out of prison. We reflect on what that meant and how crucial support systems are when trying to rebuild your life.

00:23:32 Resilience and Accountability. I open up about the mental resilience I had to develop while in prison. Akai shares what it was like visiting me, and the tough realities we faced in those conversations.

00:27:51 Akai’s Turning Point. Akai opens up about his own experience surviving a violent attack—how it shaped him and pushed him to become a campaigner against violence instead of seeking revenge.

00:31:12 Breaking the Cycle. We discuss what it takes to break free from patterns of violence—whether that’s through...

I’m Jacob Dunne. In 2011, a single punch I threw in a moment of anger ended another man’s life. That moment set me on a path I could never have imagined—a journey through guilt, punishment, forgiveness, and, eventually, redemption.

After serving 14 months in prison for manslaughter, I was homeless, unemployed, and struggling to find a sense of purpose. But through restorative justice and the support of those who believed in my potential to change, I managed to turn my life around.

In Right From Wrong, I invite you to join me as I share my journey from that tragic night to the work I do now as an author, campaigner, and advocate for justice reform. In season one, you’ll hear from the people closest to me, including my family, mentors, and even the parents of my victim. Together, we’ll explore the ripple effects of that single action, diving into themes of guilt, forgiveness, and the incredible power of accountability and compassion.

This isn’t just my story—it’s a call for change. Right From Wrong is a movement, bringing these conversations into schools, prisons, and parliament, with the aim of inspiring a more just and empathetic world.

📲 Stay connected:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jacobfreeman/
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jacobfreeman
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jacobfreeman/
• Or visit my website: https://www.jacobdunne.co.uk

🎧 Follow and subscribe to the podcast on your podcast app of choice to join me on this journey of accountability, empathy, and transformation. Let’s explore how we can create a ripple effect for change—together.