About this episode
Frederick Riley grew up in Saginaw, Michigan surrounded by eviction notices, food insecurity, and the constant feeling that something might go wrong at any moment. Yet his story is ultimately one of possibility. Along the way, a remarkable network of people — a determined mother, a pastor, a principal, teachers, mentors, and neighbors — helped shape the path that would eventually lead him to become Executive Director of Weave: The Social Fabric Project at the Aspen Institute.In this deeply personal conversation, Fred reflects on the moment he met his father for the first time at age eleven, the mentors who helped him see a bigger future, and the painful lessons that ultimately strengthened his commitment to community and service.Fred also shares how his work today focuses on identifying and supporting “weavers,” the everyday people quietly rebuilding trust and connection in communities across America.It is a powerful reminder that none of us gets where we are alone. Our lives are shaped by the people who see us, challenge us, and lift us up along the way.www.whogotmehere.comTime Stamps:00:00 – A Defining Moment: Feeling Seen for the First Time02:20 – Growing Up with Instability04:20 – How High Expectations Shape Young Minds07:00 – Finding Role Models When Few Exist09:00 – Identity, Confidence, and Being “The Collar Boys”12:00 – Teachers Who Change Trajectories15:30 – Purpose Through Service: Building Mentorship Programs18:00 – Investing in Youth: Why Developing the Next Generation Matters21:30 – Joining Weave and Building Community Trust23:30 – The “Weavers” of America25:00 – Volunteering vs. Weaving: Building Relationships27:00 – What Thriving Communities Look Like for Young Boys29:00 – Can Strong Communities Be Built at Scale?30:30 – How Relationships Are Built in Everyday Life32:00 – Learning to Be Honest and Kind to Yourself34:30 – The Power of One Person Reaching Out36:00 – Advice to His 12-Year-Old Self37:30 – The Mentors Who Still Shape Him Today38:30 – Networking as Humanity: Treating Everyone with Equal Dignity39:30 – Three Simple Actions to Rebuild Community Today This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit whogotmehere.substack.com
