Today, we’re diving deep into a conversation that’s particularly close to my heart. I’m joined by the brilliant James Graham, an acclaimed playwright who has managed to turn my life story into a powerful stage play called Punch.

James takes us behind the scenes, sharing his emotional and creative journey of adapting my book into a theatrical masterpiece. Together, we explore the transformative power of storytelling and the profound impact it can have on individuals and communities. We also dig into the wider themes of restorative justice, forgiveness, and personal growth, which resonate so deeply not just with me but with everyone involved in this project.

This episode encapsulates so many of the emotions we've tackled this season: the struggles and the breakthroughs, the doubts and the hopes. And I can't wait for you to hear James discuss how this project has spurred his own growth and reflections on societal issues.

Our conversation is layered, rich with insights, and brings forward that unique blend of accountability and redemption that defines Right From Wrong. This episode promises to inspire and challenge you, offering a new perspective on the ripple effects of our actions and the transformative power of empathy.

00:01:09 Looking Back on Season 1. As I wrap up the first season of Right From Wrong, I reflect on the key themes, powerful conversations, and incredible guests who have shaped my journey from punishment to redemption.

00:02:39 Introducing James Graham. I sit down with playwright James Graham, the man who took my story and turned it into the stage play Punch. We talk about his background and what drew him to my journey.

00:03:24 Processing the Impact of the Play. James shares his thoughts on the reception of Punch—the overwhelming audience response, critical acclaim, and what it meant to see the play come to life.

00:04:22 Reaching Beyond the Theatre. We discuss how Punch has resonated beyond the stage, with people in the legal system—judges, politicians, and educators—engaging with its message on restorative justice.

00:07:29 Growing Up Working-Class with Big Dreams. James reflects on his childhood in a mining village and how his family’s support, despite financial struggles, allowed him to pursue his passion for the arts.

00:10:04 Challenging Cultural Expectations. We talk about how pursuing the arts isn’t always encouraged in working-class communities and how James’s school played a crucial role in making theatre feel accessible.

00:11:40 Hard Work and Family Sacrifices. Both James and I share stories about the work ethic instilled in us by our families, particularly the sacrifices our mums made to give us opportunities.

00:14:20 Immersing in Restorative Justice. James opens up about the deep research process he went through to ensure Punch authentically captured restorative justice and the emotional weight of my story.

00:17:11 Relating on a Personal Level. James shares how themes of vulnerability, relationships, and emotional expression in my journey resonated with his own struggles and experiences.

00:21:58 Why Punch Matters to So Many People. We explore how the themes in Punch—accountability, forgiveness, and second chances—have connected with audiences from all walks of life.

00:24:45 The Power of Forgiveness. We unpack how forgiveness is portrayed in the play and the impact it’s had on audiences, as well as on James and me personally.

00:24:55 Healing Through Theatre. I reflect on how theatre has helped me connect with people in ways I never expected and how the collaborative effort of the

Welcome back to another episode of Right From Wrong. Today, I'm incredibly excited to bring you a profound and heart-touching conversation with two truly inspiring guests, Julie Hesmondhalgh and Tony Hirst. Both actors have immersed themselves in the world of Punch, a play that is very close to my heart, portraying an immensely personal story of tragedy, accountability, and redemption.

In this episode, we explore the transformative power of storytelling and live theatre. Julie and Tony share their deep reflections on stepping into the roles of Joan and David, the parents of the man whose life was ended by my single, devastating punch. We delve into how embodying these characters has challenged and changed them, and how the story they help bring to life resonates on levels that are both deeply personal and universally human.

We also discuss the unique ways in which theatre can catalyse real-world change, reaching people not just intellectually but viscerally, as evidenced by the impact of our performances on audiences and even within the legal system. Moreover, we ponder the complexities and emotional landscapes of forgiveness, the immense courage it takes, and how restorative justice can transform lives—not just for those directly involved, but for communities as a whole.

Their insights underscore the remarkable journeys that people go through when faced with unimaginable pain and the paths they take toward healing and understanding. You’ll hear about moments of raw emotion, silent connections, and the ongoing dialogue that follows long after the curtains close.

This episode is a testament to the incredible power of empathy, and it will leave you reflecting on your own capacity for forgiveness and change. I hope it inspires you as much as it has inspired me. So, without further ado, let's dive into this conversation with Julie Hesmondhalgh and Tony Hirst. You won’t want to miss it.

00:03:23 Exploring the Impact of Punch. Julie and Tony share their reflections on being part of the play and how its impact has exceeded their expectations—not just personally, but socially as well.

00:04:45 The Power of True Stories. Tony talks about why real-life stories like mine resonate so deeply, challenging audiences and inspiring change because of their authenticity.

00:07:00 Theatre’s Real-Time Connection. Julie highlights the unique ability of live theatre to create an immediate, profound connection with the audience—something no other medium can replicate.

00:09:31 Preparing to Portray Real People. Julie and Tony explain how they approached their roles, focusing on empathy rather than imitation to ensure their performances truly honoured the people involved.

00:13:27 Carrying the Emotional Weight. Tony describes what it was like to perform highly sensitive scenes in front of the real people affected, and how it reinforced the responsibility of storytelling with integrity.

00:16:48 The Complexity of Forgiveness. Julie delves into how forgiveness is never simple or linear—it’s something people turn to out of necessity, survival, and a desire to heal.

00:18:06 What Forgiveness Means to Me. I share my personal experience with forgiveness—how my understanding of it has evolved, and why it’s often a bittersweet and deeply emotional journey.

00:19:58 Audience Reactions and Reflection. Tony describes the overwhelming responses from audiences—how each person engages with the play differently, but all come away emotionally and intellectually moved.

00:23:37 The Toughest Scenes for Me to Watch. I open up about the moments in the play that hit hardest—scenes that bring back painful memories but also show how far I’ve come in my journey.

00:27:08 Why Theatre Is So...

Welcome back to another heart-to-heart episode of Right From Wrong. In this episode, I sit down with Sandra Barefoot, a pivotal figure in my transformation journey, to dive deep into the profound power of storytelling and the life-changing impact of the Restore Prison Program.

Sandra isn't just a guest; she's been a guiding light, helping me and countless others navigate the turbulent waters of accountability and self-forgiveness. Together, we reflect on my early days outside prison, the guilt that weighed heavily on my shoulders, and how the act of sharing our stories has the potential to heal and transform.

We explore the cultural stigmas surrounding vulnerability, especially in hostile environments like prisons, and discuss how creating safe spaces can lead to remarkable personal growth. Sandra's compassionate approach and her extraordinary ability to hold space for others have not only impacted inmates but have deeply influenced my path as well.

You’ll hear about my experience re-entering prison, this time for the right reasons, and how I grappled with my past while striving to make amends. We touch on the complexities of forgiveness, the ripple effects of our actions, and the invaluable lessons learned from those we might least expect.

Trust me, this episode is packed with insights and emotional revelations that you won't want to miss. Join us in this intimate conversation as we uncover how owning our stories and embracing our vulnerabilities can pave the way for true redemption and societal change.

00:01:44 Meeting Sandra Barefoot. I look back on the first time I met Sandra at a restorative justice conference and how she became such an important part of my journey toward redemption.

00:04:12 The Early Days of Collaboration. Sandra remembers my first experiences observing the Restore Prison programme and the deep emotional connection we formed through our shared mission.

00:05:29 What is the Restore Programme? Sandra explains The Forgiveness Project and the Restore Prison programme, breaking down its purpose, its origins, and the impact it has had on those inside the prison system.

00:08:55 Breaking Down Barriers in Prison. We talk about the initial scepticism from inmates and the powerful impact of creating a space where they could open up emotionally, even in such a tough environment.

00:10:09 My Own Transformative Experience. I share the overwhelming guilt I felt every time I left the prison after a session, knowing I had the freedom to walk away while others remained inside.

00:11:19 The Power of Human Connection. I reflect on the moment I connected with a prison officer and realised how much we all share the same struggles, breaking down my own prejudices.

00:12:01 Facing Full Accountability. I explain how some inmates tried to excuse my actions, but I refused to accept that—I had to take full responsibility for what I had done.

00:13:54 Shifting Perspectives. Sandra recalls how powerful it was when inmates watched a film of me meeting my victim’s parents and how it changed their views on accountability and forgiveness.

00:16:02 The Journey of Self-Forgiveness. We discuss the complex challenge of self-forgiveness—why it’s difficult but necessary, and how embracing our whole story is key to healing and transformation.

00:18:21 Dreams and Lost Opportunities. We reflect on inmates reconnecting with the dreams they had as children and how those lost opportunities were shaped by their environment and society’s expectations.

00:21:25 Storytelling as a Path to Healing. Sandra shares why storytelling is such a powerful tool in helping people understand their lives, reclaim lost parts of themselves, and move...

Welcome back to another episode of Right From Wrong. I’m Jacob Dunne, your host, guiding you through the raw and transformative journey from punishment to redemption.

In today’s heartfelt episode, I sit down with my younger brother, Sam Dunne, to explore the deeply personal and tumultuous chapters of our lives. As we delve into the days following my release from prison, we recount the poignant memories of our last family holiday and the challenging realities that greeted us when I came home to face the consequences of my actions.

Sam candidly shares his experience of grappling with the chaos I left behind and the emotional toll of caring for our alcoholic mother. His decision to move in with me, despite uncertainty and trepidation, marked a significant turn in both our lives. Together, we navigated a fragile path of reconciliation, support, and growth.

This episode embodies the central themes of our podcast — accountability, the ripple effects of our choices, and the enduring quest for redemption. As Sam and I reflect on our journey, we also discuss the importance of communication, the healing power of nature, and the common interests that helped mend our fractured relationship.

Tune in to hear how we found a way to rebuild and reconnect, and stay with us as we commit to honouring our mother's memory in a long-overdue family holiday.

Join us for an episode that is not just about recounting the past but also about inspiring hope for a better, more compassionate future. Don't miss the raw, revealing, and ultimately uplifting conversation that offers a poignant reminder of the power of restorative justice and the importance of family bonds.

I’m deeply grateful for your continued support.

00:01:48 Facing a Fork in the Road. I reflect on the choices I had after getting out of prison—the pull of old habits versus the difficult but necessary path toward redemption.

00:02:47 Sam’s Perspective on My Release. My brother Sam shares how he felt when I came home from prison, balancing hope that I’d changed with the fear that I might not.

00:03:33 The Holiday Before Everything Changed. Sam remembers the last holiday we took together as a family before my arrest—a brief moment of normalcy before life took a drastic turn.

00:06:08 The Impact of My Absence. We talk about how my time in prison affected our family dynamic, particularly how it shaped Sam’s sense of responsibility and the way he saw the world.

00:10:33 A Period of Calm. Sam opens up about the relief he felt when I went to prison—an honest but difficult truth that highlighted the chaos I had brought into our home before my sentence.

00:15:00 Mum’s Struggles and Our Hope for Change. We recall our mum’s battle with alcoholism and the fleeting hope that my return from prison might inspire her to turn things around.

00:17:14 The Harsh Reality of Losing Mum. Sam and I relive the painful experience of watching our mum decline in hospital and how, after losing her, our lives were completely reshaped.

00:19:28 Choosing to Live Together. Sam talks about the decision to move in with me after Mum passed away—the emotional weight behind that choice and what it meant for both of us.

00:23:13 Adjusting to Life as Brothers Again. We reflect on those first months of living together—navigating grief, rebuilding trust, and figuring out how to be a family without our mum.

00:24:40 Coping with Identity and Masculinity. We explore the tension between the person I used to be—the one who lived by street codes—and the person I was trying to become.

00:27:26 The Role of External Support. Sam shares how organisations like The Laura Centre helped him process his grief, and we discuss how

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...