Jul 7, 2024
Bill Sherman hosts Cobe Williams, a pioneer in violence
prevention. Cobe shares his journey from personal redemption to
global impact. As Director of US Programs for Cure Violence
Global, he uses epidemic control methods to halt violence in
communities. His story is a powerful testament to transformation
and hope.
Cobe's defining moment came in court, in restraints, when he
embraced his son after a year and a half. This emotional reunion
catalyzed his resolve to change his life and be there for his
family. Today, Cobe leads violence prevention programs worldwide,
from Chicago to Africa, transforming communities and
inspiring change.
With almost two decades in the field, Cobe began as a "Violence
Interrupter," mediating conflicts in his neighborhood. His
approach is deeply relational, meeting people where they are, and
spreading the message that disagreements don't have to escalate to
violence. His work involves intense listening, strategic
mediation, and leveraging community relationships to prevent
retaliation and promote peace.
Cobe also discusses his upcoming book, "Interrupting Violence: One Man's
Journey to Heal the Streets and Redeem Himself," co-authored
with Josh Gryniewicz. The book aims to
inspire others by sharing Cobe's personal journey and the lessons
he's learned in violence prevention.
Cure Violence Global’s success attracts mayors, health
departments, and private funders seeking proven methods to reduce
violence. Cobe emphasizes the importance of community credibility
and relationship-building in their programs, ensuring local leaders
are respected and effective.
Through his story, Cobe hopes to show that it's never too late to
change, and redemption is possible for everyone. His work and
message aim to foster understanding, reduce judgment, and inspire
others to share their stories and seek help.
Three Key Takeaways:
• Transformative Power of Personal Redemption:
Cobe Williams' journey from a courtroom revelation to leading
global violence prevention efforts illustrates how personal
transformation can drive impactful change. His story emphasizes
that it's never too late to change and that redemption is possible
for everyone.
• Community-Centric Violence Prevention: Cure
Violence Global’s approach leverages deep community relationships
and epidemic control methods to interrupt and prevent violence. By
training and supporting local leaders who are respected and
credible within their communities, the program effectively reduces
shootings and killings.
• Inspiring Others Through Storytelling: Cobe's
upcoming book, "Interrupting Violence: One Man's Journey to Heal
the Streets and Redeem Himself," aims to motivate and inspire
others. By sharing his personal experiences and the challenges he
faced, he hopes to encourage people to understand the roots of
violence, reduce judgment, and inspire others to seek help and
share their stories.