Episode 34: The Kid in the Courtroom - Why Youth Perspectives Matter in Justice Reform

<p>What if young people had a real voice in the justice system? In this moving episode of "What I Know Now," host Cole Williams sits down with <a href="https://thecaydenbrown.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Cayden Brown</a>, a 19-year-old advocate, <a href="https://www.browndailyherald.com/article/2026/03/eight-speakers-share-stories-of-passion-presence-at-student-led-tedxbrownu-conference" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">TEDx </a>speaker, and author who’s transforming juvenile justice across the nation and world. From serving as a teen court defense attorney at 17 to addressing the United Nations and writing a powerful children’s book, Cayden has devoted his life to reimagining how youth are treated in legal systems.</p><p>Discover the human impact of juvenile justice reform as Cayden shares his inspiring journey—from navigating the court system as a child to leading the <a href="https://trespassproject.com/" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">Trespass Project</a>, a nonprofit making legal information accessible to youth everywhere. Hear in-depth insights on restorative justice, the power of lived experience, and why it’s time for young people's voices to shape the policies and decisions that define their lives. There is also a surprise in this episode about Cayden's most recent project - you won't want to miss it. </p><p>Whether you’re a parent, advocate, educator, or simply passionate about creating a fairer world, this episode will challenge assumptions and spark critical conversations about youth empowerment, trauma, and how true change happens when we listen to those most affected. Don’t miss this heartfelt, eye-opening interview that will leave you rethinking what justice and voice really mean for the next generation.</p><p><strong>Keywords:</strong> juvenile justice, teen court, restorative justice, youth empowerment, legal reform, TED Talk, children’s rights, trauma, advocacy, lived experience, Michigan, The Delta Project, Trespass Project, young voices</p>