Julieta Martinelli

So, Maria, when I'm listening to this, you know, is it jealousy in your voice? Like what's happening with you right now?

So, Maria, when I'm listening to this, you know, is it jealousy in your voice? Like what's happening with you right now?

I guess I've always been curious if like, if you've ever had a reaction like this with any of your other friends or like what you think it is about Suave that, that like brings this out.

I guess I've always been curious if like, if you've ever had a reaction like this with any of your other friends or like what you think it is about Suave that, that like brings this out.

You know, I'm actually kind of glad you brought that up because your relationship has so many different dynamics. There's the business relationship with Suave and then there's the friendship.

You know, I'm actually kind of glad you brought that up because your relationship has so many different dynamics. There's the business relationship with Suave and then there's the friendship.

And when you're dealing with so many sort of like competing relationships, like if you got upset with a source for starting a show with somebody else and you're friends, so you have the comfort that you normally wouldn't have with a source, you might say things that you would not normally say.

And when you're dealing with so many sort of like competing relationships, like if you got upset with a source for starting a show with somebody else and you're friends, so you have the comfort that you normally wouldn't have with a source, you might say things that you would not normally say.

Maria tells the story that we've all basically memorized by now. How she and Suave met at Graterford Prison while he was incarcerated. How they kept in touch over the years. How things have changed from reporter and source to friendship.

Maria tells the story that we've all basically memorized by now. How she and Suave met at Graterford Prison while he was incarcerated. How they kept in touch over the years. How things have changed from reporter and source to friendship.

I do acknowledge what you're saying, but in this conversation we just heard, you don't tell Suave, like, I'm not happy that you're telling your story in another podcast. You say, I was your best friend, and now you have another best friend. You call him bro. Like, that doesn't seem how you would say it to a regular source.

I do acknowledge what you're saying, but in this conversation we just heard, you don't tell Suave, like, I'm not happy that you're telling your story in another podcast. You say, I was your best friend, and now you have another best friend. You call him bro. Like, that doesn't seem how you would say it to a regular source.

And over time, to be honest, it just feels like the relationship is not healthy anymore. And you guys have some very tough phone calls like this one.

And over time, to be honest, it just feels like the relationship is not healthy anymore. And you guys have some very tough phone calls like this one.

Yeah, I remember.

Yeah, I remember.

At some point amid all of these arguments, there's a trip to Philly. And I sit there and record you to try and hash out what's been going on.

At some point amid all of these arguments, there's a trip to Philly. And I sit there and record you to try and hash out what's been going on.

After years trying to decipher their relationship, pen pals, interviewer, interviewee, creative collaborators, Maria and Suave have been saying the F-word openly now. Friendship. Although, what does it actually mean? I recently asked both Suave and Maria to give me their own definitions of friendship.

After years trying to decipher their relationship, pen pals, interviewer, interviewee, creative collaborators, Maria and Suave have been saying the F-word openly now. Friendship. Although, what does it actually mean? I recently asked both Suave and Maria to give me their own definitions of friendship.

At this point, I notice that we're kind of losing Suave. He's sunk down in his chair. He's looking away from Maria. His body language is speaking very loud. I can see your face, so I'm gonna say something, okay? You know, I can see you shutting down in this conversation. And I'm wondering if it's things like that, that make you withdraw.

At this point, I notice that we're kind of losing Suave. He's sunk down in his chair. He's looking away from Maria. His body language is speaking very loud. I can see your face, so I'm gonna say something, okay? You know, I can see you shutting down in this conversation. And I'm wondering if it's things like that, that make you withdraw.

Because I can feel like the more that Maria is asking you why you're withdrawing, I can like physically see you pulling away from her on your chair and like not making eye contact and like, I'm wondering if that feels overbearing for you.

Because I can feel like the more that Maria is asking you why you're withdrawing, I can like physically see you pulling away from her on your chair and like not making eye contact and like, I'm wondering if that feels overbearing for you.

Like, I think Marias maybe shows love by wanting to be on top of you. Like, are you okay? Share your location. But I'm worried that for you, that's very like, I need separation.

Like, I think Marias maybe shows love by wanting to be on top of you. Like, are you okay? Share your location. But I'm worried that for you, that's very like, I need separation.

Do you think Maria can be too demanding of your friendship?

Do you think Maria can be too demanding of your friendship?

Listening back now, what do you hear happening in that conversation, Maria?

Listening back now, what do you hear happening in that conversation, Maria?

Remember back at the beginning when Suave and Maria were defining friendship?

Remember back at the beginning when Suave and Maria were defining friendship?

Suave said he didn't really know what friendship meant. But there was another F word he felt like he could wrap his head around.

Suave said he didn't really know what friendship meant. But there was another F word he felt like he could wrap his head around.

Whether it's friends, family, girlfriends, Suave tells me that he feels like he's finally making progress on letting people deeper into his life.

Whether it's friends, family, girlfriends, Suave tells me that he feels like he's finally making progress on letting people deeper into his life.

Would you say that you've lost the urge to run every time things get a little complicated?

Would you say that you've lost the urge to run every time things get a little complicated?

And maybe, just maybe, he's ready to take a big leap.

And maybe, just maybe, he's ready to take a big leap.

If Lucero proposed to you, how would you feel?

If Lucero proposed to you, how would you feel?

Lucero, compra una anillo, mujer.

Lucero, compra una anillo, mujer.

Sometimes change happens gradually, and sometimes it comes at you all at once. And you find yourself laughing in a tiny recording booth that used to give you panic attacks, asking your partner to propose with a ring pop, when just months prior, that thought made you want to run. That's the thing about love and change. No one is immune to it.

Sometimes change happens gradually, and sometimes it comes at you all at once. And you find yourself laughing in a tiny recording booth that used to give you panic attacks, asking your partner to propose with a ring pop, when just months prior, that thought made you want to run. That's the thing about love and change. No one is immune to it.

And this friendship in particular between Maria and Suave, it's had some highs, but also it's had some really rough spots.

And this friendship in particular between Maria and Suave, it's had some highs, but also it's had some really rough spots.

There's one kind of relationship we didn't talk about in this episode, though.

There's one kind of relationship we didn't talk about in this episode, though.

His relationship with his brother is still in prison. People he can't or won't leave behind. Guys like Frank.

His relationship with his brother is still in prison. People he can't or won't leave behind. Guys like Frank.

Suave changed his own fate, and now he's hoping to change it for the man who mentored and showed love to him behind bars.

Suave changed his own fate, and now he's hoping to change it for the man who mentored and showed love to him behind bars.

That's next time on Suave. Suave is a production of Futuro Studios. To binge every episode of Suave Season 2 right now, plus exclusive bonus episodes, subscribe to Futuro+. The senior producer, reporter, and host is me, Julieta Martinelli. Our associate producer is Liliana Ruiz. We're edited by Marlon Bishop. Our production managers are Jessica Ellis and Nancy Trujillo.

That's next time on Suave. Suave is a production of Futuro Studios. To binge every episode of Suave Season 2 right now, plus exclusive bonus episodes, subscribe to Futuro+. The senior producer, reporter, and host is me, Julieta Martinelli. Our associate producer is Liliana Ruiz. We're edited by Marlon Bishop. Our production managers are Jessica Ellis and Nancy Trujillo.

Our post-production producer is Dan Riveros. Scoring and sound design by Stephanie LeBow. Mixing by Stephanie LeBow, Julia Caruso, and JJ Caruven. Our fact checker is Amy Tardif. Production help from Joaquin Kotler, Juan Diego Ramirez, Nicole Rothwell, Joey Del Valle, Evelyn Fajardo-Alvarez, Glorimar Marquez, and Tasha Sandoval.

Our post-production producer is Dan Riveros. Scoring and sound design by Stephanie LeBow. Mixing by Stephanie LeBow, Julia Caruso, and JJ Caruven. Our fact checker is Amy Tardif. Production help from Joaquin Kotler, Juan Diego Ramirez, Nicole Rothwell, Joey Del Valle, Evelyn Fajardo-Alvarez, Glorimar Marquez, and Tasha Sandoval.

Our executive producers are Mariano Josa, Luis Suave Gonzalez, Marlon Bishop, and Maria Garcia. Futuro Media was founded by Maria Hinojosa.

Our executive producers are Mariano Josa, Luis Suave Gonzalez, Marlon Bishop, and Maria Garcia. Futuro Media was founded by Maria Hinojosa.

Special thanks to Maggie Freeling, Audrey Quinn, Antonia Serejido, Fernanda Echavarri, Neil Rossini, students at the I Am More program at the Community College of Philadelphia, the Abolitionist Law Center, Community Legal Services of Philadelphia, and the Campaign for the Fair Sentencing of Youth. Season 2 of Suave was made possible by the Mellon Foundation.

Special thanks to Maggie Freeling, Audrey Quinn, Antonia Serejido, Fernanda Echavarri, Neil Rossini, students at the I Am More program at the Community College of Philadelphia, the Abolitionist Law Center, Community Legal Services of Philadelphia, and the Campaign for the Fair Sentencing of Youth. Season 2 of Suave was made possible by the Mellon Foundation.

Mellon makes grants to support the visionaries and communities that unlock the power of the arts and humanities to help connect us all. More at Mellon.org. Season 2 of Suave was made possible in part by Public Welfare Foundation, catalyzing transformative approaches to justice that are community-led, restorative, and racially just.

Mellon makes grants to support the visionaries and communities that unlock the power of the arts and humanities to help connect us all. More at Mellon.org. Season 2 of Suave was made possible in part by Public Welfare Foundation, catalyzing transformative approaches to justice that are community-led, restorative, and racially just.

Hey, Suave listeners, it's Julieta here. Are you tired of waiting each week for new episodes to come out? Well, you can listen to the whole season of Suave right now, plus exclusive bonus episodes by joining Futuro Plus. And you'll be helping support the independent journalism that we do here at Futuro. Join now at futuromediagroup.org backslash join plus. What's up?

Hey, Suave listeners, it's Julieta here. Are you tired of waiting each week for new episodes to come out? Well, you can listen to the whole season of Suave right now, plus exclusive bonus episodes by joining Futuro Plus. And you'll be helping support the independent journalism that we do here at Futuro. Join now at futuromediagroup.org backslash join plus. What's up?

Friendship, or intimacy in general for that matter, has been one of the biggest challenges for Suave since getting out of prison. How to connect with someone, how to be vulnerable, how to be open. All of these things that he never really had to think about because in prison, it was so important to protect himself, to close himself off from other people.

Friendship, or intimacy in general for that matter, has been one of the biggest challenges for Suave since getting out of prison. How to connect with someone, how to be vulnerable, how to be open. All of these things that he never really had to think about because in prison, it was so important to protect himself, to close himself off from other people.

From Futuro Studios, this is Suave. I'm Julieta Martinelli. In 2017, David Luis Suave Gonzalez was released from prison after 31 years serving a life sentence without parole. He was one of thousands of juvenile lifers granted a second chance at life. This is a story about life after incarceration and the search for the true meaning of freedom. This is Season 2.

From Futuro Studios, this is Suave. I'm Julieta Martinelli. In 2017, David Luis Suave Gonzalez was released from prison after 31 years serving a life sentence without parole. He was one of thousands of juvenile lifers granted a second chance at life. This is a story about life after incarceration and the search for the true meaning of freedom. This is Season 2.

On this episode, love, relationships, and the fear of the unknown.

On this episode, love, relationships, and the fear of the unknown.

Now, seven years later, Suave isn't married, but he is in a relationship. After Maria's talk at the school in Philly, Suave invites us to his home.

Now, seven years later, Suave isn't married, but he is in a relationship. After Maria's talk at the school in Philly, Suave invites us to his home.

For some context, Suave has been pretty secretive about his dating life with us. But with this person, it seems that something has changed. So on this day, we take an Uber together to North Philly. And there, we meet his partner, Lucero. She's all smiles. Lucero is Puerto Rican.

For some context, Suave has been pretty secretive about his dating life with us. But with this person, it seems that something has changed. So on this day, we take an Uber together to North Philly. And there, we meet his partner, Lucero. She's all smiles. Lucero is Puerto Rican.

She's a mom of a teenager and a grown son who, in one of those weird twists of fate, turns out was actually a correctional officer at SCI Graterford while Suave was incarcerated.

She's a mom of a teenager and a grown son who, in one of those weird twists of fate, turns out was actually a correctional officer at SCI Graterford while Suave was incarcerated.

Out here, the standards for a good relationship were very different. And for Suave, they felt almost impossible to meet.

Out here, the standards for a good relationship were very different. And for Suave, they felt almost impossible to meet.

And Suave will be the first to admit he's attracted, and dare I even say, maybe even a little addicted to drama.

And Suave will be the first to admit he's attracted, and dare I even say, maybe even a little addicted to drama.

It's September 2022, and we're in Philadelphia for a day of activities that Suave has planned for Maria. And we're starting at a place that Suave knows really well, Community College of Philadelphia, where he's been working for more than a year. We make our way through long hallways filled with students into a large auditorium.

It's September 2022, and we're in Philadelphia for a day of activities that Suave has planned for Maria. And we're starting at a place that Suave knows really well, Community College of Philadelphia, where he's been working for more than a year. We make our way through long hallways filled with students into a large auditorium.

That thing that he mentioned about feeling that relationships can feel too intrusive, that doesn't just come up with his girlfriend, but also with Maria. And a great example of that was the whole hospital incident.

That thing that he mentioned about feeling that relationships can feel too intrusive, that doesn't just come up with his girlfriend, but also with Maria. And a great example of that was the whole hospital incident.

Suavez says he was just walking down the street when he became unbalanced, and he took a massive fall. He had blood in his brain, a dislocated jaw, and three fractured ribs.

Suavez says he was just walking down the street when he became unbalanced, and he took a massive fall. He had blood in his brain, a dislocated jaw, and three fractured ribs.

You start trying to call the hospital, talk to his doctors. But after trying to get more involved in his care, Suave actually tells me that he isn't really happy about it.

You start trying to call the hospital, talk to his doctors. But after trying to get more involved in his care, Suave actually tells me that he isn't really happy about it.

I know. But, you know, I think she just thinks that she's helping because she knows that you're there by yourself. And I think she's just worried. And it's not just Maria. It's also his girlfriend.

I know. But, you know, I think she just thinks that she's helping because she knows that you're there by yourself. And I think she's just worried. And it's not just Maria. It's also his girlfriend.

Yeah, I mean, overall, at this point, things were still pretty good between the two of you. But over time, listening to calls that you two would have, you could tell that there were things that were straining the relationship. Well, you know what?

Yeah, I mean, overall, at this point, things were still pretty good between the two of you. But over time, listening to calls that you two would have, you could tell that there were things that were straining the relationship. Well, you know what?

Suave gives Maria his arm. He walks her up the steps onto the stage.

Suave gives Maria his arm. He walks her up the steps onto the stage.

So you want to tell me all about it? On this day, Suave is excited because things with his new podcast, Death by Incarceration, are actually going really well.

So you want to tell me all about it? On this day, Suave is excited because things with his new podcast, Death by Incarceration, are actually going really well.

Since the Pulitzer, Suave has impressed a lot of folks in the media industry, including a man who recently became his new business partner and the co-host of his podcast. And that seems to be a touchy subject for Maria.

Since the Pulitzer, Suave has impressed a lot of folks in the media industry, including a man who recently became his new business partner and the co-host of his podcast. And that seems to be a touchy subject for Maria.

And there's something else, something big that Suave has been keeping quiet. As we're getting up to leave, Suave works up the courage to share it with Maria.

And there's something else, something big that Suave has been keeping quiet. As we're getting up to leave, Suave works up the courage to share it with Maria.

Suave is losing weight because he recently made a huge decision.

Suave is losing weight because he recently made a huge decision.

I just think Jesus was what we would now define as queer.

I just think Jesus was what we would now define as queer.

We've actually known for a while that Suave's sister, Josefina, has been in dialysis for years. But he says her kidneys are completely failing now. Just a few months ago, Suave told us that she was hospitalized again. At that time, he said it would be too difficult for him to be in good enough health to even want to find out if he could be a donor. But now...

We've actually known for a while that Suave's sister, Josefina, has been in dialysis for years. But he says her kidneys are completely failing now. Just a few months ago, Suave told us that she was hospitalized again. At that time, he said it would be too difficult for him to be in good enough health to even want to find out if he could be a donor. But now...

Suave tells us that he's on a strict health regimen. He's on a doctor-monitor diet and taking a bunch of vitamins. He's got more than 50 pounds to lose in just a few months. But he's been approved as a match.

Suave tells us that he's on a strict health regimen. He's on a doctor-monitor diet and taking a bunch of vitamins. He's got more than 50 pounds to lose in just a few months. But he's been approved as a match.

I was shocked when Suave told me, and frankly, not really thrilled about all of this. But the more that Suave and I talked about it, the more I understood that Suave is getting ready to make the ultimate sacrifice for love, for his sister, for family. But it's also because he really wants to do something like really good, you know, in a spiritual way.

I was shocked when Suave told me, and frankly, not really thrilled about all of this. But the more that Suave and I talked about it, the more I understood that Suave is getting ready to make the ultimate sacrifice for love, for his sister, for family. But it's also because he really wants to do something like really good, you know, in a spiritual way.

It's in the hood. It is like being on the most crowded beach that you can imagine with people wearing really tiny bathing suits and music going crazy from one little spot to the next little spot. But in other words, joy. It's like it's a beach in the Bronx.

It's in the hood. It is like being on the most crowded beach that you can imagine with people wearing really tiny bathing suits and music going crazy from one little spot to the next little spot. But in other words, joy. It's like it's a beach in the Bronx.

And it's also why he agreed to do this podcast in the first place and to open up his life for others, even if it's uncomfortable.

And it's also why he agreed to do this podcast in the first place and to open up his life for others, even if it's uncomfortable.

So, it's going down. I'm always honest with you, Suave. You should be losing that weight because of your love for yourself. Like, the weight that you want to lose shouldn't be because of your sister. It should be because you love yourself and you want to take care of yourself.

So, it's going down. I'm always honest with you, Suave. You should be losing that weight because of your love for yourself. Like, the weight that you want to lose shouldn't be because of your sister. It should be because you love yourself and you want to take care of yourself.

On the other hand, I think that after the experience in Puerto Rico and connecting back with your family that has always loved you, your family in Santurce never stopped loving you. And I would say that your sister, even though she didn't have the capacity to manifest her love for you, still loves you too.

On the other hand, I think that after the experience in Puerto Rico and connecting back with your family that has always loved you, your family in Santurce never stopped loving you. And I would say that your sister, even though she didn't have the capacity to manifest her love for you, still loves you too.

Suave admits that he felt some resentment when he was in prison at not having more contact. Then he got out and understood just how difficult life can be on the outside, too. Now he understands what she was going through differently.

Suave admits that he felt some resentment when he was in prison at not having more contact. Then he got out and understood just how difficult life can be on the outside, too. Now he understands what she was going through differently.

Shedding the anger that he once felt for his sister is only part of a bigger shift within Suave. It's almost like he's feeling more inspired to live.

Shedding the anger that he once felt for his sister is only part of a bigger shift within Suave. It's almost like he's feeling more inspired to live.

Over the course of this season, we've witnessed how the long shadow of prison continues to shape Suave's experiences on the outside. How the effects of decades of incarceration didn't just suddenly stop the day that he reenters society.

Over the course of this season, we've witnessed how the long shadow of prison continues to shape Suave's experiences on the outside. How the effects of decades of incarceration didn't just suddenly stop the day that he reenters society.

He had to learn to balance life under the strict confines of parole.

He had to learn to balance life under the strict confines of parole.

And how to form lasting relationships when love and commitment trigger his fear of being deprived of freedom and agency.

And how to form lasting relationships when love and commitment trigger his fear of being deprived of freedom and agency.

The push and pull of both guilt and desire to move on from his life behind bars, but also not wanting to leave his friends behind.

The push and pull of both guilt and desire to move on from his life behind bars, but also not wanting to leave his friends behind.

Orchard Beach is on the outer edge of the Bronx, and it was this place that was full of possibilities and excitement for Suave when he was a young boy.

Orchard Beach is on the outer edge of the Bronx, and it was this place that was full of possibilities and excitement for Suave when he was a young boy.

And then there was the anger and mental health crisis unleashed by the theft of his car.

And then there was the anger and mental health crisis unleashed by the theft of his car.

The incident was a reality check for Suave. You know, he thought he was rehabilitated. And then he starts spiraling and thinking about committing violence. And that's when he finally realizes, like, he needs help before what he'd worked so hard to build was destroyed.

The incident was a reality check for Suave. You know, he thought he was rehabilitated. And then he starts spiraling and thinking about committing violence. And that's when he finally realizes, like, he needs help before what he'd worked so hard to build was destroyed.

But he's had time to think about how he got there.

But he's had time to think about how he got there.

And finally, reuniting with his family and coping with the reality that he is not as close to his family as he'd like to be. That the decades he spent in prison stole connections he'll never be able to get back.

And finally, reuniting with his family and coping with the reality that he is not as close to his family as he'd like to be. That the decades he spent in prison stole connections he'll never be able to get back.

All of these challenges led us here today. In 2019, I vividly remember the day that I asked you, where do you see yourself in a year? And I asked you if there was anything else on your bucket list that was still there. So five years later, same question. Is there things that are pending on your bucket list right now?

All of these challenges led us here today. In 2019, I vividly remember the day that I asked you, where do you see yourself in a year? And I asked you if there was anything else on your bucket list that was still there. So five years later, same question. Is there things that are pending on your bucket list right now?

There's nothing you want right now?

There's nothing you want right now?

Long before Suave's incarceration, long before he was even called Suave, Davidcito, or Little David, would spend his weekends here with his mom, helping her sell homemade food so they could get by. It was one of his mom's many hustles. By 16 would be the last time that Suave set foot here.

Long before Suave's incarceration, long before he was even called Suave, Davidcito, or Little David, would spend his weekends here with his mom, helping her sell homemade food so they could get by. It was one of his mom's many hustles. By 16 would be the last time that Suave set foot here.

You see, Suave giving a kidney to his sister is different than Suave's other advocacy work. Yes, he still wants to change the law. He's still fighting for better rights inside the prison. He's still mentoring dozens of students in his reentry program. He's still advocating for Frank, hoping that the system will have compassion for him.

You see, Suave giving a kidney to his sister is different than Suave's other advocacy work. Yes, he still wants to change the law. He's still fighting for better rights inside the prison. He's still mentoring dozens of students in his reentry program. He's still advocating for Frank, hoping that the system will have compassion for him.

And yet, there's only so much that he can really do with these bigger systemic problems. But the kidney, that's in his hands. If he can change his eating habits, if he can take his vitamins, if he can do his daily walks, if he can lose weight, he can save someone's life.

And yet, there's only so much that he can really do with these bigger systemic problems. But the kidney, that's in his hands. If he can change his eating habits, if he can take his vitamins, if he can do his daily walks, if he can lose weight, he can save someone's life.

What happens if after you give her your kidney, your sister's like, cool, bro. Thank you. Talk to you in a year.

What happens if after you give her your kidney, your sister's like, cool, bro. Thank you. Talk to you in a year.

In the evening, after our day at the beach, we say goodbye outside of the Futuro office. Suave is taking the subway to Penn Station, where he will board a train home to Philly.

In the evening, after our day at the beach, we say goodbye outside of the Futuro office. Suave is taking the subway to Penn Station, where he will board a train home to Philly.

If Maria had something to say to Suave in that moment, she doesn't really get to. They barely make it to the platform when Suave's train headed to Penn Station shows up.

If Maria had something to say to Suave in that moment, she doesn't really get to. They barely make it to the platform when Suave's train headed to Penn Station shows up.

A few days later, Maria gets a call. How are you doing?

A few days later, Maria gets a call. How are you doing?

He'd moved to Philly, and shortly after, he would end up in prison with a life sentence, and another kid would be dead. For him, Orchard Beach became part of this childhood memory, a memory that he replayed over and over when he was in his prison cell.

He'd moved to Philly, and shortly after, he would end up in prison with a life sentence, and another kid would be dead. For him, Orchard Beach became part of this childhood memory, a memory that he replayed over and over when he was in his prison cell.

Suave tells Maria, on his way back to Philly, he had a small box cutter in his book bag, the kind that you would find at any office to open mail. He carries it in his book bag. It's been there forever. Suave says that as he's walking by, a metal detector goes off.

Suave tells Maria, on his way back to Philly, he had a small box cutter in his book bag, the kind that you would find at any office to open mail. He carries it in his book bag. It's been there forever. Suave says that as he's walking by, a metal detector goes off.

Oh, my God.

Oh, my God.

In the end, Suavez says his parole officer tells him to go home once they reach Philly, to be more careful, not to let it happen again. Next time, they're going to have to take him in. A reminder that his freedom is always conditional. Something that's been eating at Suavez since the beginning of the season.

In the end, Suavez says his parole officer tells him to go home once they reach Philly, to be more careful, not to let it happen again. Next time, they're going to have to take him in. A reminder that his freedom is always conditional. Something that's been eating at Suavez since the beginning of the season.

In episode one, Suave revealed that he wasn't happy, that he didn't feel free, despite no longer being in prison.

In episode one, Suave revealed that he wasn't happy, that he didn't feel free, despite no longer being in prison.

Now, after all he's been through since then, nearing his eighth anniversary of life beyond prison, I ask him how he feels about his freedom today. What have you learned about freedom?

Now, after all he's been through since then, nearing his eighth anniversary of life beyond prison, I ask him how he feels about his freedom today. What have you learned about freedom?

Sometimes freedom is as simple as going on a walk on the beach with your friends and seeing some deer. Having choices, even when it's complicated. So, happiness. Is it possible for Suave? Does he deserve to be happy and move on from the past when that past caused harm to someone else?

Sometimes freedom is as simple as going on a walk on the beach with your friends and seeing some deer. Having choices, even when it's complicated. So, happiness. Is it possible for Suave? Does he deserve to be happy and move on from the past when that past caused harm to someone else?

And what does it even mean to be free when you finally have what you always wanted and you don't feel the way that you thought you would? Those were the questions that we set out to answer this season. Those were the questions that haunted Suave. Maybe happiness is a tall order for any of us. In prison, Suave lived by a strict set of guidelines laid out by others.

And what does it even mean to be free when you finally have what you always wanted and you don't feel the way that you thought you would? Those were the questions that we set out to answer this season. Those were the questions that haunted Suave. Maybe happiness is a tall order for any of us. In prison, Suave lived by a strict set of guidelines laid out by others.

When he got out, he tried to do what he thought society expected of him to prove to the world that he was worthy of a second chance. I think that these days, Suave is beginning to set his own guidelines and defining for himself what his freedom means to him.

When he got out, he tried to do what he thought society expected of him to prove to the world that he was worthy of a second chance. I think that these days, Suave is beginning to set his own guidelines and defining for himself what his freedom means to him.

And in a way, some might say that Orchard Beach is where his journey home really began. And so it's here that we've come to reflect at the end of his journey on what freedom really means. And it's also here that Suave reveals to us a decision that's going to change his life, for him and for somebody else. From Futuro Studios, this is Suave. I'm Julieta Martinelli.

And in a way, some might say that Orchard Beach is where his journey home really began. And so it's here that we've come to reflect at the end of his journey on what freedom really means. And it's also here that Suave reveals to us a decision that's going to change his life, for him and for somebody else. From Futuro Studios, this is Suave. I'm Julieta Martinelli.

I think you do too. Suave is a production of Futuro Studios. To binge every episode of Suave Season 2 right now, plus exclusive bonus episodes, subscribe to Futuro+. The senior producer, reporter, and host is me, Julieta Martinelli. Our associate producer is Liliana Ruiz. We're edited by Marlon Bishop. Our production managers are Jessica Ellis and Nancy Trujillo.

I think you do too. Suave is a production of Futuro Studios. To binge every episode of Suave Season 2 right now, plus exclusive bonus episodes, subscribe to Futuro+. The senior producer, reporter, and host is me, Julieta Martinelli. Our associate producer is Liliana Ruiz. We're edited by Marlon Bishop. Our production managers are Jessica Ellis and Nancy Trujillo.

Our post-production producer is Dan Riveros. Scoring and sound design by Stephanie LeBow. Mixing by Stephanie LeBow, Julia Caruso, and JJ Caruven. Our fact checker is Amy Tardif. Production help from Joaquin Kotler, Juan Diego Ramirez, Nicole Rothwell, Joey Del Valle, Evelyn Fajardo-Alvarez, Glorimar Marquez, and Tasha Sandoval.

Our post-production producer is Dan Riveros. Scoring and sound design by Stephanie LeBow. Mixing by Stephanie LeBow, Julia Caruso, and JJ Caruven. Our fact checker is Amy Tardif. Production help from Joaquin Kotler, Juan Diego Ramirez, Nicole Rothwell, Joey Del Valle, Evelyn Fajardo-Alvarez, Glorimar Marquez, and Tasha Sandoval.

Our executive producers are Mariano Josa, Luis Suave Gonzalez, Marlon Bishop, and Maria Garcia. Futuro Media was founded by Mariano Rosa.

Our executive producers are Mariano Josa, Luis Suave Gonzalez, Marlon Bishop, and Maria Garcia. Futuro Media was founded by Mariano Rosa.

Special thanks to Maggie Freeling, Audrey Quinn, Antonia Serejido, Fernanda Echavarri, Neil Rossini, students at the I Am More program at the Community College of Philadelphia, the Abolitionist Law Center, Community Legal Services of Philadelphia, and the Campaign for the Fair Sentencing of Youth. Season 2 of Suave was made possible by the Mellon Foundation.

Special thanks to Maggie Freeling, Audrey Quinn, Antonia Serejido, Fernanda Echavarri, Neil Rossini, students at the I Am More program at the Community College of Philadelphia, the Abolitionist Law Center, Community Legal Services of Philadelphia, and the Campaign for the Fair Sentencing of Youth. Season 2 of Suave was made possible by the Mellon Foundation.

Mellon makes grants to support divisionaries and communities that unlock the power of the arts and humanities to help connect us all. More at Mellon.org. Season 2 of Suave was made possible in part by Public Welfare Foundation, catalyzing transformative approaches to justice that are community-led, restorative, and racially just.

Mellon makes grants to support divisionaries and communities that unlock the power of the arts and humanities to help connect us all. More at Mellon.org. Season 2 of Suave was made possible in part by Public Welfare Foundation, catalyzing transformative approaches to justice that are community-led, restorative, and racially just.

From PRX.

From PRX.

In 2017, David Luis Suave Gonzalez was released from prison after 31 years serving a life sentence without parole. He was one of thousands of juvenile lifers granted a second chance at life. This is a story about life after incarceration and the search for the true meaning of freedom. This is Season 2. On this episode, where we go from here.

In 2017, David Luis Suave Gonzalez was released from prison after 31 years serving a life sentence without parole. He was one of thousands of juvenile lifers granted a second chance at life. This is a story about life after incarceration and the search for the true meaning of freedom. This is Season 2. On this episode, where we go from here.

So the thing is about Orchard Beach is that, I mean, Orchard Beach in and of itself is kind of mythical for all Puerto Ricans in New York. It's like the Puerto Rican Riviera. But in terms of Suave, he brought it up a couple of times when he was in prison and he would talk about these memories of being there with his mom and the rest of his family, his cousin Tony.

So the thing is about Orchard Beach is that, I mean, Orchard Beach in and of itself is kind of mythical for all Puerto Ricans in New York. It's like the Puerto Rican Riviera. But in terms of Suave, he brought it up a couple of times when he was in prison and he would talk about these memories of being there with his mom and the rest of his family, his cousin Tony.

And, you know, it was like this was a special place for the whole family. And so I knew I wanted to bring Suave back to Orchard Beach, back to this kind of magical place that he had memories of when he was a little kid.

And, you know, it was like this was a special place for the whole family. And so I knew I wanted to bring Suave back to Orchard Beach, back to this kind of magical place that he had memories of when he was a little kid.

So it looks the same?

So it looks the same?

Now, Futuro is becoming a home for more voices than ever. Help grow this future by joining our new membership program. You'll get exclusive interviews, whole season binges, behind-the-scenes chisme, shape the future of storytelling. Join Futuro Plus now. Visit our website, futuromediagroup.org slash join plus. Y no te vayas. Look at this. Oh, my gosh.

Now, Futuro is becoming a home for more voices than ever. Help grow this future by joining our new membership program. You'll get exclusive interviews, whole season binges, behind-the-scenes chisme, shape the future of storytelling. Join Futuro Plus now. Visit our website, futuromediagroup.org slash join plus. Y no te vayas. Look at this. Oh, my gosh.

Suave points to an empty concrete path at the entrance to the beach. It's quiet here today. It's noon in the middle of a work week, and we basically have the place all to ourselves.

Suave points to an empty concrete path at the entrance to the beach. It's quiet here today. It's noon in the middle of a work week, and we basically have the place all to ourselves.

Except that usually the music, the salsa, would be popping. And it turns out that a lot of Suave's own childhood development, it happened here at this beach because this was where he would hang out with his mom on the weekends and help her sell food.

Except that usually the music, the salsa, would be popping. And it turns out that a lot of Suave's own childhood development, it happened here at this beach because this was where he would hang out with his mom on the weekends and help her sell food.

Suave tells us that he would go off and hustle other stalls' customers and bring them back to his mom. And it's also where he first learned to talk to girls, to take them on walks down to the beach. I mean, it was sweet.

Suave tells us that he would go off and hustle other stalls' customers and bring them back to his mom. And it's also where he first learned to talk to girls, to take them on walks down to the beach. I mean, it was sweet.

And as they got a little bit older, Suave and his cousin Tony, they started coming here to Orchard Beach on their own for another kind of work. Basically, they were tasked with bringing the ofrendas, the offerings, that were part of his mother's spiritual practice in Santeria.

And as they got a little bit older, Suave and his cousin Tony, they started coming here to Orchard Beach on their own for another kind of work. Basically, they were tasked with bringing the ofrendas, the offerings, that were part of his mother's spiritual practice in Santeria.

Then, after Suave went to prison, he says his cousin Tony would come with the offerings alone, and his family would pray for Suave's release. Suave never thought much about it.

Then, after Suave went to prison, he says his cousin Tony would come with the offerings alone, and his family would pray for Suave's release. Suave never thought much about it.

The photos of Suave would be bundled up with fruits, cigars, whatever his mom felt the Orishas would appreciate. She would pray over them, asking the deities in exchange not to forget her son in prison. Suavez says he always obliged. He smiled, he took the photos, he paid to have them printed so his mom could bring them back and do her offerings.

The photos of Suave would be bundled up with fruits, cigars, whatever his mom felt the Orishas would appreciate. She would pray over them, asking the deities in exchange not to forget her son in prison. Suavez says he always obliged. He smiled, he took the photos, he paid to have them printed so his mom could bring them back and do her offerings.

Not because he really believed that the offerings did anything, but because they seemed to give his mom something to believe in. Hope. Do you think that you were afraid to have hope? Because if you believed in it and then it didn't happen?

Not because he really believed that the offerings did anything, but because they seemed to give his mom something to believe in. Hope. Do you think that you were afraid to have hope? Because if you believed in it and then it didn't happen?

Right there. So Suave's pointing to a little indentation in another one of the little bays of Large Orchard Bay.

Right there. So Suave's pointing to a little indentation in another one of the little bays of Large Orchard Bay.

We should try and go over there. Yeah. Let's see if we can make our way across. It looks very swampy.

We should try and go over there. Yeah. Let's see if we can make our way across. It looks very swampy.

We walk through a wooded trail away from the beach.

We walk through a wooded trail away from the beach.

I mean, hearing Suave say that being out in the middle of the woods is like being in solitary confinement because of the silence. Wow. That blew my mind. Oh, look at a deer. So it just went by. You have deer in the Bronx? We just run into two deer. Walking near us.

I mean, hearing Suave say that being out in the middle of the woods is like being in solitary confinement because of the silence. Wow. That blew my mind. Oh, look at a deer. So it just went by. You have deer in the Bronx? We just run into two deer. Walking near us.

Season two of Suave was made possible by the Mellon Foundation. Mellon makes grants to support visionaries and communities that unlock the power of the arts and humanities to help connect us all. More at Mellon.org. When I founded Futuro, I imagined a home for journalism with radical transparency. I wanted a newsroom where I wasn't the only Latina behind the mic.

Season two of Suave was made possible by the Mellon Foundation. Mellon makes grants to support visionaries and communities that unlock the power of the arts and humanities to help connect us all. More at Mellon.org. When I founded Futuro, I imagined a home for journalism with radical transparency. I wanted a newsroom where I wasn't the only Latina behind the mic.

After spotting these beautiful deer running around in the Bronx, we continue walking through the woods towards the bay. We climb some rocks. It's really fun. It kind of feels like we're on an adventure.

After spotting these beautiful deer running around in the Bronx, we continue walking through the woods towards the bay. We climb some rocks. It's really fun. It kind of feels like we're on an adventure.

And when we reach the bay, I climb down the rocks. I take off my shoes and I step into the water.

And when we reach the bay, I climb down the rocks. I take off my shoes and I step into the water.

But now that we're here, Suave refuses to touch the water.

But now that we're here, Suave refuses to touch the water.

Maybe Suave fears making contact with that old version of himself. The Suave in the photos in that old brown prison uniform. The version of him that he spent so much time trying to heal and leave behind. These seven years that Suave's been at a prison have been a slow process of letting go of the person that he was.

Maybe Suave fears making contact with that old version of himself. The Suave in the photos in that old brown prison uniform. The version of him that he spent so much time trying to heal and leave behind. These seven years that Suave's been at a prison have been a slow process of letting go of the person that he was.

For Maria, it's also been a time of letting go in terms of her relationship with Suave and the person that he used to be.

For Maria, it's also been a time of letting go in terms of her relationship with Suave and the person that he used to be.

I told Suave, I was like, look, sweetie, I do see you as a full-fledged, established adult who has made it in the world outside of prison and is responsible for making his own decisions. And this is where I had to say, you have to let Suave live his life.

I told Suave, I was like, look, sweetie, I do see you as a full-fledged, established adult who has made it in the world outside of prison and is responsible for making his own decisions. And this is where I had to say, you have to let Suave live his life.

It seems like Maria is trying to say that when it comes to Suave, she just can't be in so deep anymore.

It seems like Maria is trying to say that when it comes to Suave, she just can't be in so deep anymore.

Whenever I think of this, I always hear the screaming.

Whenever I think of this, I always hear the screaming.

Maria hears talking about the incident in season one, when Suavez suddenly goes back to prison after being accused of domestic violence. When Maria heard the news, she just started screaming.

Maria hears talking about the incident in season one, when Suavez suddenly goes back to prison after being accused of domestic violence. When Maria heard the news, she just started screaming.

So we are now crossing over a bridge and there's water everywhere. And look.

So we are now crossing over a bridge and there's water everywhere. And look.

Suave's healing and his setbacks and her reaction to them, well, they've actually led to some real tension in her personal life.

Suave's healing and his setbacks and her reaction to them, well, they've actually led to some real tension in her personal life.

Germán saw me have another one of these profoundly emotional reactions to something that was happening with Suave.

Germán saw me have another one of these profoundly emotional reactions to something that was happening with Suave.

Germán is María's husband. He was there the day that she met Suave and has always supported her communication with him over the years. Until recently.

Germán is María's husband. He was there the day that she met Suave and has always supported her communication with him over the years. Until recently.

He was kind of like, this is not cool. Like Suave cannot be coming into our family together.

He was kind of like, this is not cool. Like Suave cannot be coming into our family together.

That's because for so long, Maria seems to have convinced herself that it was somehow her duty to be there for Suave when any issues came up, like parole or the car situation or when he got sick, even when Suave didn't ask her to. She will walk out of dinner with her family. She will step out to take a phone call during a celebration.

That's because for so long, Maria seems to have convinced herself that it was somehow her duty to be there for Suave when any issues came up, like parole or the car situation or when he got sick, even when Suave didn't ask her to. She will walk out of dinner with her family. She will step out to take a phone call during a celebration.

For the last seven years, we've been following Suavez's life on an almost near daily basis. From Graterford Prison to the streets of the Philadelphia Badlands and all the way to Puerto Rico, we've done and seen a lot of things together. But we haven't yet been to a place that's been in the background for a lot of Suavez's story. Orchard Beach.

For the last seven years, we've been following Suavez's life on an almost near daily basis. From Graterford Prison to the streets of the Philadelphia Badlands and all the way to Puerto Rico, we've done and seen a lot of things together. But we haven't yet been to a place that's been in the background for a lot of Suavez's story. Orchard Beach.

Maria says that she always felt that her family was used to it. You know, this is just part of her being a journalist and being really intense about her work. That is, until her son called her out on it recently.

Maria says that she always felt that her family was used to it. You know, this is just part of her being a journalist and being really intense about her work. That is, until her son called her out on it recently.

I remember when Raul said, oh yeah. Mom, there were times when you were talking to me. I was having a conversation with you about something important as an adolescent and Suave would call and you'd go take the call and you'd stop talking to your son. Oh, that cut deep. That definitely cut deep for me. Those are the kinds of things that you don't forget.

I remember when Raul said, oh yeah. Mom, there were times when you were talking to me. I was having a conversation with you about something important as an adolescent and Suave would call and you'd go take the call and you'd stop talking to your son. Oh, that cut deep. That definitely cut deep for me. Those are the kinds of things that you don't forget.

It's led her to reevaluate just how emotionally invested she's been in somebody else's life.

It's led her to reevaluate just how emotionally invested she's been in somebody else's life.

Like you're not walking out on his life, but you're, you cannot lose your life.

Like you're not walking out on his life, but you're, you cannot lose your life.

Maria has realized that she was so caught up in whatever was going on with Suave that she may have at times disengaged from the needs of her own family. She needs boundaries.

Maria has realized that she was so caught up in whatever was going on with Suave that she may have at times disengaged from the needs of her own family. She needs boundaries.

You cannot lose your family. That is the, I suppose that is the only boundary, right? That I can't lose my husband, my son or my daughter for Suave anymore. That's how deep it is. Like, that's how close it comes.

You cannot lose your family. That is the, I suppose that is the only boundary, right? That I can't lose my husband, my son or my daughter for Suave anymore. That's how deep it is. Like, that's how close it comes.

Boundaries are actually something that Suave himself had been trying to set with Maria. Finally, they were starting to hear each other. We talk about this a bit in Orchard Beach, huddling around an old picnic table under a shaded tree. I ask him where they are in their friendship right now. Where are you?

Boundaries are actually something that Suave himself had been trying to set with Maria. Finally, they were starting to hear each other. We talk about this a bit in Orchard Beach, huddling around an old picnic table under a shaded tree. I ask him where they are in their friendship right now. Where are you?

Both Suave and I are going to have to make the effort right, to be in it to see what happens next. That means I'm going to have to call and he's going to have to answer. That means he's going to have to call me and I have to answer.

Both Suave and I are going to have to make the effort right, to be in it to see what happens next. That means I'm going to have to call and he's going to have to answer. That means he's going to have to call me and I have to answer.

What happens with you guys once we turn this microphone off?

What happens with you guys once we turn this microphone off?

In January, I meet up with Suave in Atlanta, where I live. Suave's in town to speak at a criminal justice reform conference. Over the last five years that I've been producing Suave, I've gone to Philly a lot, but we've never really hung out in my turf. So we are in front of a Waffle House right in front of Centennial Olympic Park.

In January, I meet up with Suave in Atlanta, where I live. Suave's in town to speak at a criminal justice reform conference. Over the last five years that I've been producing Suave, I've gone to Philly a lot, but we've never really hung out in my turf. So we are in front of a Waffle House right in front of Centennial Olympic Park.

And while he's in town, we've been invited to an artist showcase at the infamous Stanconia Studios. Suave seems really excited.

And while he's in town, we've been invited to an artist showcase at the infamous Stanconia Studios. Suave seems really excited.

Stanconia is the most Atlanta of all Atlanta places. I mean, it's just this legendary studio where Outkast recorded a bunch of classics. Honestly, it's pretty iconic, Maria. Everyone from TLC to TI to Ludacris have recorded there.

Stanconia is the most Atlanta of all Atlanta places. I mean, it's just this legendary studio where Outkast recorded a bunch of classics. Honestly, it's pretty iconic, Maria. Everyone from TLC to TI to Ludacris have recorded there.

Yeah, he was, you know. And anyway, so we decide to meet there. And that night, as I'm getting ready to head out, Suave just suddenly stops responding to all my phone calls.

Yeah, he was, you know. And anyway, so we decide to meet there. And that night, as I'm getting ready to head out, Suave just suddenly stops responding to all my phone calls.

And it turns out, he did go. But he was out of there so fast, and he just didn't know how to explain it to me. So he just ignored my calls. So I ask him why. I mean, like, what's up? What happened? We had all these plans, and then he just left me hanging.

And it turns out, he did go. But he was out of there so fast, and he just didn't know how to explain it to me. So he just ignored my calls. So I ask him why. I mean, like, what's up? What happened? We had all these plans, and then he just left me hanging.

And the thing is, you know, a lot of people in Atlanta carry a gun. It's kind of become normal for me. You know, open carry is legal here in Georgia. So I had never really considered that Suave might find it risky or even, like, upsetting until this moment.

And the thing is, you know, a lot of people in Atlanta carry a gun. It's kind of become normal for me. You know, open carry is legal here in Georgia. So I had never really considered that Suave might find it risky or even, like, upsetting until this moment.

And of course, he has to think about his lifetime parole.

And of course, he has to think about his lifetime parole.

I mean, think about what he said about the guns. Before he went to prison, he used to be one of these guys, packing, talking bold, just fearless. You know how he is. But now he really can't be that way anymore. The risk is too big. So it's interesting and also even a little confusing. Suave has to live by all these rules, but he also pushes back on them regularly.

I mean, think about what he said about the guns. Before he went to prison, he used to be one of these guys, packing, talking bold, just fearless. You know how he is. But now he really can't be that way anymore. The risk is too big. So it's interesting and also even a little confusing. Suave has to live by all these rules, but he also pushes back on them regularly.

Suave, formerly one of the hardest guys on the block at Greaterford Prison, now a doting cat dad.

Suave, formerly one of the hardest guys on the block at Greaterford Prison, now a doting cat dad.

Later that day in Atlanta, Suave and I sit across from each other at the hotel lobby. He's wearing a cream hoodie with a pair of matching joggers, cream and mint green sneakers, and of course, a Yankees hat. And he tells me a story about a friend from inside who just got out of prison.

Later that day in Atlanta, Suave and I sit across from each other at the hotel lobby. He's wearing a cream hoodie with a pair of matching joggers, cream and mint green sneakers, and of course, a Yankees hat. And he tells me a story about a friend from inside who just got out of prison.

He was able to work out a release without lifetime parole.

He was able to work out a release without lifetime parole.

But then the conversation went into some pretty interesting territory.

But then the conversation went into some pretty interesting territory.

You said he came home, he's not on parole. That's dangerous. That really caught my ear.

You said he came home, he's not on parole. That's dangerous. That really caught my ear.

Oh, that's a loaded sentence. I want to talk a little more about that. Because we've been talking about, you know, how to get you off life in parole.

Oh, that's a loaded sentence. I want to talk a little more about that. Because we've been talking about, you know, how to get you off life in parole.

So what if you had to come home without parole? Are you saying that you wouldn't be in, that you would be in a worse position? I'm really curious about this.

So what if you had to come home without parole? Are you saying that you wouldn't be in, that you would be in a worse position? I'm really curious about this.

For so long, Suave has talked about parole as something getting in the way of his ability to succeed and feeling truly free. Another hurdle, another tie to the past.

For so long, Suave has talked about parole as something getting in the way of his ability to succeed and feeling truly free. Another hurdle, another tie to the past.

And you know, that's kind of a complicated concept for me to grasp in that moment. I have never heard you say this. This is really shocking for me.

And you know, that's kind of a complicated concept for me to grasp in that moment. I have never heard you say this. This is really shocking for me.

I have to ask you, is there a part of you that maybe fears getting off of lifetime parole? Let's be real.

I have to ask you, is there a part of you that maybe fears getting off of lifetime parole? Let's be real.

OK, so maybe fear is not the word, but is there a part of you that maybe feels like it's a little safer in this moment for now to stay on lifetime parole?

OK, so maybe fear is not the word, but is there a part of you that maybe feels like it's a little safer in this moment for now to stay on lifetime parole?

Suave found a way to free himself from his cage, only to find himself trapped in a completely new one. As long as he's on parole, he'll never be able to just do what he wants, take a spontaneous trip, drive without looking over his shoulder, even take a little weed gummy for sleep. But what does it mean for Suave that this new cage is also kind of a safety net?

Suave found a way to free himself from his cage, only to find himself trapped in a completely new one. As long as he's on parole, he'll never be able to just do what he wants, take a spontaneous trip, drive without looking over his shoulder, even take a little weed gummy for sleep. But what does it mean for Suave that this new cage is also kind of a safety net?

Is total freedom what he really desires after all? All those years in a jail cell, many of them in solitary confinement. I mean, it has to change you pretty profoundly. And one of the hardest things for Suavez since getting out is navigating relationships.

Is total freedom what he really desires after all? All those years in a jail cell, many of them in solitary confinement. I mean, it has to change you pretty profoundly. And one of the hardest things for Suavez since getting out is navigating relationships.

Suavez's studio apartment is pretty tiny. But after decades in a small cell, Suavez says it felt kind of palatial when he moved in.

Suavez's studio apartment is pretty tiny. But after decades in a small cell, Suavez says it felt kind of palatial when he moved in.

That's next time on Suave. Suave. Suave is a production of Futuro Studios. To binge every episode of Suave Season 2 right now, plus exclusive bonus episodes, subscribe to Futuro Plus. The senior producer, reporter, and host is me, Julieta Martinelli. Our associate producer is Liliana Ruiz. We're edited by Marlon Bishop. Our production managers are Jessica Ellis and Nancy Trujillo.

That's next time on Suave. Suave. Suave is a production of Futuro Studios. To binge every episode of Suave Season 2 right now, plus exclusive bonus episodes, subscribe to Futuro Plus. The senior producer, reporter, and host is me, Julieta Martinelli. Our associate producer is Liliana Ruiz. We're edited by Marlon Bishop. Our production managers are Jessica Ellis and Nancy Trujillo.

Our post-production producer is Dan Riveros. Scoring and sound design by Stephanie LeBow. Mixing by Stephanie LeBow, Julia Caruso, and JJ Caruven. Our fact checker is Amy Tardif. Production help from Joaquin Kotler, Juan Diego Ramirez, Nicole Rothwell, Joey Del Valle, Evelyn Fajardo-Alvarez, Glorimar Marquez, and Tasha Sandoval.

Our post-production producer is Dan Riveros. Scoring and sound design by Stephanie LeBow. Mixing by Stephanie LeBow, Julia Caruso, and JJ Caruven. Our fact checker is Amy Tardif. Production help from Joaquin Kotler, Juan Diego Ramirez, Nicole Rothwell, Joey Del Valle, Evelyn Fajardo-Alvarez, Glorimar Marquez, and Tasha Sandoval.

Our executive producers are Mariano Josa, Luis Suave Gonzalez, Marlon Bishop, and Maria Garcia. Futuro Media was founded by Maria Hinojosa.

Our executive producers are Mariano Josa, Luis Suave Gonzalez, Marlon Bishop, and Maria Garcia. Futuro Media was founded by Maria Hinojosa.

Special thanks to Maggie Freeling, Audrey Quinn, Antonia Serejido, Fernanda Echavarri, Neil Rossini, students at the I Am More program at the Community College of Philadelphia, the Abolitionist Law Center, Community Legal Services of Philadelphia, and the Campaign for the Fair Sentencing of Youth. Season 2 of Suave was made possible by the Mellon Foundation.

Special thanks to Maggie Freeling, Audrey Quinn, Antonia Serejido, Fernanda Echavarri, Neil Rossini, students at the I Am More program at the Community College of Philadelphia, the Abolitionist Law Center, Community Legal Services of Philadelphia, and the Campaign for the Fair Sentencing of Youth. Season 2 of Suave was made possible by the Mellon Foundation.

Mellon makes grants to support the visionaries and communities that unlock the power of the arts and humanities to help connect us all. More at Mellon.org. Season 2 of Suave was made possible in part by Public Welfare Foundation, catalyzing transformative approaches to justice that are community-led, restorative, and racially just.

Mellon makes grants to support the visionaries and communities that unlock the power of the arts and humanities to help connect us all. More at Mellon.org. Season 2 of Suave was made possible in part by Public Welfare Foundation, catalyzing transformative approaches to justice that are community-led, restorative, and racially just.

Unlike a prison cell, though, there's a big fluffy bed here. Also, it's kind of Bella's bed. But after sleeping on a three-inch mattress over a metal slab for three decades, he can't really get comfortable on this bed.

Unlike a prison cell, though, there's a big fluffy bed here. Also, it's kind of Bella's bed. But after sleeping on a three-inch mattress over a metal slab for three decades, he can't really get comfortable on this bed.

It turns out it's harder than it seems to break some prison habits.

It turns out it's harder than it seems to break some prison habits.

And Maria, you've offered him some advice that has helped you sleep.

And Maria, you've offered him some advice that has helped you sleep.

From Futuro Studios, this is Suave. I'm Julieta Martinelli. In 2017, David Luis Suave Gonzalez was released from prison after 31 years serving a life sentence without parole. He was one of thousands of juvenile lifers granted a second chance at life. This is his story about life after incarceration and the search for the true meaning of freedom. This is season two.

From Futuro Studios, this is Suave. I'm Julieta Martinelli. In 2017, David Luis Suave Gonzalez was released from prison after 31 years serving a life sentence without parole. He was one of thousands of juvenile lifers granted a second chance at life. This is his story about life after incarceration and the search for the true meaning of freedom. This is season two.

On this episode, the long shadow of parole.

On this episode, the long shadow of parole.

You're right, because seven years out, Suave is still on parole. And he will be forever. And that's because he has lifetime parole.

You're right, because seven years out, Suave is still on parole. And he will be forever. And that's because he has lifetime parole.

Yeah, and he can be so nonchalant about it. I mean, but the reality still is that freedom is a privilege for Suave, and that privilege can be taken away pretty much for anything.

Yeah, and he can be so nonchalant about it. I mean, but the reality still is that freedom is a privilege for Suave, and that privilege can be taken away pretty much for anything.

Right. So he's banned forever from visiting anyone in prison that he was incarcerated with, even if it's family.

Right. So he's banned forever from visiting anyone in prison that he was incarcerated with, even if it's family.

Yeah, that means that even the most mundane of things that you and I never think of in our daily life can become really, really scary for Suave.

Yeah, that means that even the most mundane of things that you and I never think of in our daily life can become really, really scary for Suave.

It's a weekday, and Suave usually takes the SEPTA bus to get to work at Community College of Philadelphia. But today he's got so many errands, it's just not feasible to take the bus.

It's a weekday, and Suave usually takes the SEPTA bus to get to work at Community College of Philadelphia. But today he's got so many errands, it's just not feasible to take the bus.

It's a sunny day and Suave is riding in his gray Hyundai. He's wearing a gray suit with a black shirt underneath. He's sitting close to the wheel and he's holding it pretty tight.

It's a sunny day and Suave is riding in his gray Hyundai. He's wearing a gray suit with a black shirt underneath. He's sitting close to the wheel and he's holding it pretty tight.

The anxiety is so bad that Suave ends up asking a friend to drive him home that night. But there is some hope for the future. Technically, there is some legal recourse that could allow Suave to get off of lifetime parole, even if it's kind of a long shot.

The anxiety is so bad that Suave ends up asking a friend to drive him home that night. But there is some hope for the future. Technically, there is some legal recourse that could allow Suave to get off of lifetime parole, even if it's kind of a long shot.

Commutation just means that the remaining term of his sentence is completely forgiven. But it's not easy to get.

Commutation just means that the remaining term of his sentence is completely forgiven. But it's not easy to get.

The Board of Pardons doesn't state just how long after a conviction they'll consider a pardon. They just mention that they do consider the length of time.

The Board of Pardons doesn't state just how long after a conviction they'll consider a pardon. They just mention that they do consider the length of time.

But a report by the Community Legal Services of Philadelphia, who work with clients that are going through this process, confirms that the majority of people who are successful have been out of prison for about five to 10 years, depending on the offense.

But a report by the Community Legal Services of Philadelphia, who work with clients that are going through this process, confirms that the majority of people who are successful have been out of prison for about five to 10 years, depending on the offense.

It might be impossible, but maybe, just maybe, would that feel like true freedom?

It might be impossible, but maybe, just maybe, would that feel like true freedom?

That, oh, no. Why did you say that, Maria?

That, oh, no. Why did you say that, Maria?

But Suave doesn't always enjoy getting together with his prison friends. Part of it is parole, and it can be risky to be around people that are drinking or smoking weed around you. But that's not really it. It's because it can get complicated for him emotionally.

But Suave doesn't always enjoy getting together with his prison friends. Part of it is parole, and it can be risky to be around people that are drinking or smoking weed around you. But that's not really it. It's because it can get complicated for him emotionally.

After telling me that, Suavez sits with this thought for a minute. Then he backtracks. It's not about not wanting to see the guys.

After telling me that, Suavez sits with this thought for a minute. Then he backtracks. It's not about not wanting to see the guys.

So former juvenile lifers like Suave, they're all on parole. But most people who go to prison, they're going for shorter terms. So they're actually coming out with a clean slate after their sentence. And many of Suave's prison buddies don't really have to worry about parole. After decades of supporting each other in prison, the roles that guide their lives are now very different.

So former juvenile lifers like Suave, they're all on parole. But most people who go to prison, they're going for shorter terms. So they're actually coming out with a clean slate after their sentence. And many of Suave's prison buddies don't really have to worry about parole. After decades of supporting each other in prison, the roles that guide their lives are now very different.

It sounds harsh. But I wonder, what does it feel like to know the people on the outside can't ever really understand how you feel? And then Suave's prison friends, who are supposed to understand, well, they're moving on themselves.

It sounds harsh. But I wonder, what does it feel like to know the people on the outside can't ever really understand how you feel? And then Suave's prison friends, who are supposed to understand, well, they're moving on themselves.

Then we're hearing a lot that he had a lot of girlfriends, including a nun. Yes, love him, love him. And this is essentially all the reasons why we came to Puerto Rico.

Then we're hearing a lot that he had a lot of girlfriends, including a nun. Yes, love him, love him. And this is essentially all the reasons why we came to Puerto Rico.

In this one, there are pictures of his cousins playing high school ball. There's photos from his uncle's wedding. I mean, really, it's just showing all of these things, these memories, these moments that Suave missed out on because he was in prison. Bobby, can you just say how you're feeling at this moment? Emotional. What's going on for you?

In this one, there are pictures of his cousins playing high school ball. There's photos from his uncle's wedding. I mean, really, it's just showing all of these things, these memories, these moments that Suave missed out on because he was in prison. Bobby, can you just say how you're feeling at this moment? Emotional. What's going on for you?

was a woman who liked men.

was a woman who liked men.

They said that she liked to run off with her friends and that the family got really worried that she was going to get in some kind of trouble, you know, on the streets. And so they were working parents. They didn't have a lot of resources. And so they did what they thought was best at the time. And the thing is, Suave had never heard this story. His mom had never told him.

They said that she liked to run off with her friends and that the family got really worried that she was going to get in some kind of trouble, you know, on the streets. And so they were working parents. They didn't have a lot of resources. And so they did what they thought was best at the time. And the thing is, Suave had never heard this story. His mom had never told him.

Now, over the years, Suave always really made it clear to me how much he respected his mom for doing it all alone as a single mom. In terms of his father, he only knows his name, and it's a painful topic. We really haven't talked about it. And Suave was told pretty early on in life that he and his sister, his twin sister Eva, were the result of a sexual assault.

Now, over the years, Suave always really made it clear to me how much he respected his mom for doing it all alone as a single mom. In terms of his father, he only knows his name, and it's a painful topic. We really haven't talked about it. And Suave was told pretty early on in life that he and his sister, his twin sister Eva, were the result of a sexual assault.

So even without the support of her children's fathers, the thing is, is that Suave's mom made it work. She was doing it in her own way. She had her own parental philosophy about how you raise kids who need to be ready for the world.

So even without the support of her children's fathers, the thing is, is that Suave's mom made it work. She was doing it in her own way. She had her own parental philosophy about how you raise kids who need to be ready for the world.

I will never forget when Suave told me about the time that he first tried heroin. This was a drug that he was selling on the street corners, right, when he got into the confrontation that landed him in prison for murder. But, you know, when he was younger, he hadn't tried it, and then he did with his mom. And he wasn't even a teenager yet.

I will never forget when Suave told me about the time that he first tried heroin. This was a drug that he was selling on the street corners, right, when he got into the confrontation that landed him in prison for murder. But, you know, when he was younger, he hadn't tried it, and then he did with his mom. And he wasn't even a teenager yet.

So, of course, as a mother myself, I had a really hard time trying to reconcile this, right? I had to really try to come at this without any judgment and understand where Suave's mom was coming from. Because also, I mean, she is kind of above criticism for Suave, and I didn't really want to kind of go there.

So, of course, as a mother myself, I had a really hard time trying to reconcile this, right? I had to really try to come at this without any judgment and understand where Suave's mom was coming from. Because also, I mean, she is kind of above criticism for Suave, and I didn't really want to kind of go there.

But now here in Puerto Rico with Suave's family, and I'm hearing more about his mother, I'm starting to understand that she was somebody who was suffering through a tremendous amount of trauma as a little girl, you know, as not even a teenager herself. And she had to make her life happen on her own terms.

But now here in Puerto Rico with Suave's family, and I'm hearing more about his mother, I'm starting to understand that she was somebody who was suffering through a tremendous amount of trauma as a little girl, you know, as not even a teenager herself. And she had to make her life happen on her own terms.

So I'm finally getting the picture that she was someone who found a way to get by in a world that had not been kind to her.

So I'm finally getting the picture that she was someone who found a way to get by in a world that had not been kind to her.

Take the story about Suave's aunt, his tia, who they say was beaten by her husband in the United States, right, in Florida. When the family found out that this man had lifted a hand to her, the cousins say they boarded a flight to Miami and showed up the next day.

Take the story about Suave's aunt, his tia, who they say was beaten by her husband in the United States, right, in Florida. When the family found out that this man had lifted a hand to her, the cousins say they boarded a flight to Miami and showed up the next day.

They threatened the husband, took her out of the home, and literally put her on the plane right back to Puerto Rico, no questions asked.

They threatened the husband, took her out of the home, and literally put her on the plane right back to Puerto Rico, no questions asked.

Suave, when you talk about, you know, when you get out of prison in 2017, you remember the first year or two, you had such a desire to bring your family together. And I was always like, I don't see it.

Suave, when you talk about, you know, when you get out of prison in 2017, you remember the first year or two, you had such a desire to bring your family together. And I was always like, I don't see it.

And, you know, this was really hard to understand why Suave was so dead set in reuniting with his siblings when, yo, they didn't even show up. They didn't visit. They didn't write. I mean, how come he wasn't angry? And this is something that, honestly, I didn't understand. But now being here, I think what you wanted so desperately to make happen in Philly was really... You're crying now.

And, you know, this was really hard to understand why Suave was so dead set in reuniting with his siblings when, yo, they didn't even show up. They didn't visit. They didn't write. I mean, how come he wasn't angry? And this is something that, honestly, I didn't understand. But now being here, I think what you wanted so desperately to make happen in Philly was really... You're crying now.

And now it turns out, Suave... Here in Puerto Rico, in fact, you have found that family.

And now it turns out, Suave... Here in Puerto Rico, in fact, you have found that family.

Suave's whole family has deep roots in santería, and santería is a traditional spiritual practice that It's originally from Africa. It's also known as the Yoruba religion. It's very secretive because it had to be because people who followed this tradition were shunned. They were persecuted. I mean, really, it's a religion of survivors. So at the very end is when Belu finally says, um, so...

Suave's whole family has deep roots in santería, and santería is a traditional spiritual practice that It's originally from Africa. It's also known as the Yoruba religion. It's very secretive because it had to be because people who followed this tradition were shunned. They were persecuted. I mean, really, it's a religion of survivors. So at the very end is when Belu finally says, um, so...

You want to see our little room upstairs? So we go upstairs, and there's an unmarked door right there. Pelu opens it up for us, and it is a full-blown santeria lectura room, a place where readings happen, a place where you pray. So you're seeing, for example, the deities. You're seeing a Bible open. You see cigars, candles that are lit right now.

You want to see our little room upstairs? So we go upstairs, and there's an unmarked door right there. Pelu opens it up for us, and it is a full-blown santeria lectura room, a place where readings happen, a place where you pray. So you're seeing, for example, the deities. You're seeing a Bible open. You see cigars, candles that are lit right now.

And at that moment, I say, look, is there a chance that I can meet the Santera who comes to do work in your house? And so Suave's cousin says, let me see if I can make a phone call to the Santera.

And at that moment, I say, look, is there a chance that I can meet the Santera who comes to do work in your house? And so Suave's cousin says, let me see if I can make a phone call to the Santera.

It's rare to see Suave stop in his tracks, but this is what happened. Like, he looked at this person and he was so blown away by the fact that she looked so much like his mother. He got so emotional. And when he finally pulled it together to say hello, they just hugged really tight.

It's rare to see Suave stop in his tracks, but this is what happened. Like, he looked at this person and he was so blown away by the fact that she looked so much like his mother. He got so emotional. And when he finally pulled it together to say hello, they just hugged really tight.

What are you taking away from this whole experience of 24 hours with Suave?

What are you taking away from this whole experience of 24 hours with Suave?

Millie tells me that she's really happy that Suavez found his family after so many years apart and found them right here in the same house he spent time in when he was a kid.

Millie tells me that she's really happy that Suavez found his family after so many years apart and found them right here in the same house he spent time in when he was a kid.

Madrina Evelyn told Suave that he should cleanse himself in the waters of his birthplace to leave behind on the island everything he no longer wishes to carry.

Madrina Evelyn told Suave that he should cleanse himself in the waters of his birthplace to leave behind on the island everything he no longer wishes to carry.

He's taking off his socks. He's really... He's fighting this, but he's coming.

He's taking off his socks. He's really... He's fighting this, but he's coming.

In the Yoruba practice, the ocean is Yemaya and the river is Oshun. And so we are meeting both waters.

In the Yoruba practice, the ocean is Yemaya and the river is Oshun. And so we are meeting both waters.

as I'm pouring this. Feels good, people. I would say that this is water that is to be used to cleanse you, Suave. The message from your mom is that you are safe. The message from your grandmother is that you are safe, you are with people who love you. They love you so much that they don't even know you and they're preparing cleansing baths for you because they want you to heal.

as I'm pouring this. Feels good, people. I would say that this is water that is to be used to cleanse you, Suave. The message from your mom is that you are safe. The message from your grandmother is that you are safe, you are with people who love you. They love you so much that they don't even know you and they're preparing cleansing baths for you because they want you to heal.

And know that you have angels that are watching over you. Your mother was a rebel spirit. Your grandfather was a rebel spirit. Your grandmother was a rebel spirit. And you'll fight, even with the people who love you most. But guess what? We're not going anywhere, Suave. Those of us who know you and love you and have witnessed what you have done with your life, we're not going anywhere.

And know that you have angels that are watching over you. Your mother was a rebel spirit. Your grandfather was a rebel spirit. Your grandmother was a rebel spirit. And you'll fight, even with the people who love you most. But guess what? We're not going anywhere, Suave. Those of us who know you and love you and have witnessed what you have done with your life, we're not going anywhere.

From PRX.

From PRX.

Because, like, the truth is, things have been really touch and go between me and Suave for a while now, like a couple of months. And this trip was definitely at a low point. You know, we hadn't really been speaking before we left. But I really wanted us to have a good time and for this to really be about Suave and him reconnecting with his island.

Because, like, the truth is, things have been really touch and go between me and Suave for a while now, like a couple of months. And this trip was definitely at a low point. You know, we hadn't really been speaking before we left. But I really wanted us to have a good time and for this to really be about Suave and him reconnecting with his island.

Suave, can you just tell me what you're seeing right now?

Suave, can you just tell me what you're seeing right now?

So the last time Suave was here, he says that he was like seven or eight years old. He'd spent some summers with his grandfather. But that time, he stayed almost a whole year. So he's eager to see everything all at once, in a way. But so far, it just doesn't feel like the Puerto Rico that he remembers.

So the last time Suave was here, he says that he was like seven or eight years old. He'd spent some summers with his grandfather. But that time, he stayed almost a whole year. So he's eager to see everything all at once, in a way. But so far, it just doesn't feel like the Puerto Rico that he remembers.

Let me see if this sand is hot. Yeah, there is. So we drop our bags at our hotel. We walk across the street, literally, and we're on the beach now, just in time for the sunset. And honestly, this had been a dream of mine to witness Suave encountering the ocean in Puerto Rico for the first time since he was a child. And yeah, he walks out to the water.

Let me see if this sand is hot. Yeah, there is. So we drop our bags at our hotel. We walk across the street, literally, and we're on the beach now, just in time for the sunset. And honestly, this had been a dream of mine to witness Suave encountering the ocean in Puerto Rico for the first time since he was a child. And yeah, he walks out to the water.

And so even though we had been fighting, Suave and me, like not talking, it was kind of tense. La verdad es que all of that started to melt away. And it was just so sweet, you know, me dio tanta ternura to see him on the island of Puerto Rico, like feeling free and looking like so happy.

And so even though we had been fighting, Suave and me, like not talking, it was kind of tense. La verdad es que all of that started to melt away. And it was just so sweet, you know, me dio tanta ternura to see him on the island of Puerto Rico, like feeling free and looking like so happy.

Suave doesn't have a lot of communication with his U.S.-based family. You know, his mom passed away when he was in prison. And he just doesn't talk to the rest of his sisters all that often. They live out of state and they're all dealing with their own challenges in life. And since he's gotten out, actually, they've only seen each other a handful of times.

Suave doesn't have a lot of communication with his U.S.-based family. You know, his mom passed away when he was in prison. And he just doesn't talk to the rest of his sisters all that often. They live out of state and they're all dealing with their own challenges in life. And since he's gotten out, actually, they've only seen each other a handful of times.

So there's been this loneliness, a loneliness for family, a longing for this sense of familia.

So there's been this loneliness, a loneliness for family, a longing for this sense of familia.

And so are we. Because for years, we've heard about the love and appreciation that Suave feels for his mom, Saro. And I've always felt that Saro, in many ways, is like the key to understanding so many things about Suave. Because in some ways, I think Suave wanted to emulate her. But one thing I do know is that Sarah, she was a complicated person.

And so are we. Because for years, we've heard about the love and appreciation that Suave feels for his mom, Saro. And I've always felt that Saro, in many ways, is like the key to understanding so many things about Suave. Because in some ways, I think Suave wanted to emulate her. But one thing I do know is that Sarah, she was a complicated person.

Season two of Suave was made possible by the Mellon Foundation. Mellon makes grants to support visionaries and communities that unlock the power of the arts and humanities to help connect us all. More at Mellon.org.

Season two of Suave was made possible by the Mellon Foundation. Mellon makes grants to support visionaries and communities that unlock the power of the arts and humanities to help connect us all. More at Mellon.org.

In her early 20s, Suavez says that she moved to the Bronx after yet another relationship where she ended up being a victim of domestic violence. But they would go back to PR.

In her early 20s, Suavez says that she moved to the Bronx after yet another relationship where she ended up being a victim of domestic violence. But they would go back to PR.

And that's where I got that piece. That piece of valuing family ties. So that when Suave got out of prison, one of his dreams was like to put his family back together again, kind of like the way he remembered it, the way he imagined it during those 31 years in prison.

And that's where I got that piece. That piece of valuing family ties. So that when Suave got out of prison, one of his dreams was like to put his family back together again, kind of like the way he remembered it, the way he imagined it during those 31 years in prison.

And Suave has long wondered about his mom's past, what she was like growing up, the things she didn't talk about. But you have to remember that Suave was in prison for 31 years. He was the baby, and he's 55 now. So he never got to ask those questions like, you know, sit with your mom and look through photo albums or hear the funny anecdotes.

And Suave has long wondered about his mom's past, what she was like growing up, the things she didn't talk about. But you have to remember that Suave was in prison for 31 years. He was the baby, and he's 55 now. So he never got to ask those questions like, you know, sit with your mom and look through photo albums or hear the funny anecdotes.

This is all new. And that's because, you know, Santurce has now become a hotspot for gentrification. Like, there's a high rise in the middle of all of these tiny houses.

This is all new. And that's because, you know, Santurce has now become a hotspot for gentrification. Like, there's a high rise in the middle of all of these tiny houses.

And it's actually Suave's cousin, Pelú. He calls him Davidcito, little David, even though Suave is a full 55-year-old man now.

And it's actually Suave's cousin, Pelú. He calls him Davidcito, little David, even though Suave is a full 55-year-old man now.

This little house here. Suave's family home is lime green. Yes, a lime green with a white picket fence. And there are flowers everywhere. We meet Suave's other cousin, her name is Milly, and she's just bubbling over with warmth and laughter.

This little house here. Suave's family home is lime green. Yes, a lime green with a white picket fence. And there are flowers everywhere. We meet Suave's other cousin, her name is Milly, and she's just bubbling over with warmth and laughter.

And Suave cuts to the chase fairly quickly. He tells them that he wants to hear about his mother and about his grandfather, the man who he actually always considered his father.

And Suave cuts to the chase fairly quickly. He tells them that he wants to hear about his mother and about his grandfather, the man who he actually always considered his father.

Not one. Suave always wanted to have a photo of his grandfather, but Mili says they just can't find any. And for Suave, this is like a gut punch.

Not one. Suave always wanted to have a photo of his grandfather, but Mili says they just can't find any. And for Suave, this is like a gut punch.

One day in November, Maria and I come down to Philly to visit Suave. Suave is working with young people as a support coach of I Am More. That's a program for formerly incarcerated students at Community College of Philadelphia.

One day in November, Maria and I come down to Philly to visit Suave. Suave is working with young people as a support coach of I Am More. That's a program for formerly incarcerated students at Community College of Philadelphia.

Being here just a few minutes, it's clear that Suave is that teacher. You know the one. He's got dozens of Jordans in all the colorways. He rocks a fly-ass suit with a Yankees cap to work.

Being here just a few minutes, it's clear that Suave is that teacher. You know the one. He's got dozens of Jordans in all the colorways. He rocks a fly-ass suit with a Yankees cap to work.

So today we are at Suave's school and we're really trying to record a catch-up interview with Suave.

So today we are at Suave's school and we're really trying to record a catch-up interview with Suave.

But before we get there, let's start with happier times. We're standing outside Columbia University's historic Lowe Library in New York City. It's October 20th, 2022, and spirits are high. Most of the team behind the Suave podcast is here, including journalist Mariano Rosa.

But before we get there, let's start with happier times. We're standing outside Columbia University's historic Lowe Library in New York City. It's October 20th, 2022, and spirits are high. Most of the team behind the Suave podcast is here, including journalist Mariano Rosa.

Yeah. I mean, and now here you are in Philly sitting in his classroom and he's so excited for you to meet his students.

Yeah. I mean, and now here you are in Philly sitting in his classroom and he's so excited for you to meet his students.

But before you can really get into this further with Suave, his phone rings.

But before you can really get into this further with Suave, his phone rings.

I mean, it's, like, nonstop. Yeah, I mean, every 15 minutes, it just goes off.

I mean, it's, like, nonstop. Yeah, I mean, every 15 minutes, it just goes off.

So Suave later tells me that one of his jobs when he was in prison was actually working the ice cream at commissary, which he may or may not have skimmed a little to sell on the side. And now his friend Freddie has his old gig.

So Suave later tells me that one of his jobs when he was in prison was actually working the ice cream at commissary, which he may or may not have skimmed a little to sell on the side. And now his friend Freddie has his old gig.

Nearly seven years out of prison, Suave is still deeply involved with the prison system. Maybe even more in new and different ways than he ever was before.

Nearly seven years out of prison, Suave is still deeply involved with the prison system. Maybe even more in new and different ways than he ever was before.

That night, November 20th, 2023, we celebrate the anniversary of Suave's release from prison at Freddy and Tony's. It's this little Puerto Rican joint in North Philly, the neighborhood where Suave grew up. He has a virgin piña colada, mofongo, and a steak and cebollado.

That night, November 20th, 2023, we celebrate the anniversary of Suave's release from prison at Freddy and Tony's. It's this little Puerto Rican joint in North Philly, the neighborhood where Suave grew up. He has a virgin piña colada, mofongo, and a steak and cebollado.

And Suave, a man who, for a long time, never imagined that he would ever leave a prison cell, let alone be here at the ceremony for the Pulitzer Prize.

And Suave, a man who, for a long time, never imagined that he would ever leave a prison cell, let alone be here at the ceremony for the Pulitzer Prize.

Suave did the unthinkable. He beat a life sentence, but he's not yet free. Coming up on this season of Suave.

Suave did the unthinkable. He beat a life sentence, but he's not yet free. Coming up on this season of Suave.

Seven years out of prison, Suave is still looking for a way home.

Seven years out of prison, Suave is still looking for a way home.

He makes the trip of a lifetime.

He makes the trip of a lifetime.

But Suave's relationships are tested.

But Suave's relationships are tested.

And how on the outside, life can come at you dangerously fast.

And how on the outside, life can come at you dangerously fast.

I just don't want to see you back locked up, Suave. Like, that scares the fucking shit out of me. That's coming up on season two of Suave. Suave is a production of Futuro Studios. To binge every episode of Suave Season 2 right now, plus exclusive bonus episodes, subscribe to Futuro Plus. The senior producer, reporter, and host is me, Julieta Martinelli. Our associate producer is Liliana Ruiz.

I just don't want to see you back locked up, Suave. Like, that scares the fucking shit out of me. That's coming up on season two of Suave. Suave is a production of Futuro Studios. To binge every episode of Suave Season 2 right now, plus exclusive bonus episodes, subscribe to Futuro Plus. The senior producer, reporter, and host is me, Julieta Martinelli. Our associate producer is Liliana Ruiz.

We walk up the iconic Columbia steps, through the doors, past statues of Zeus and Apollo. It feels like standing in a Greek temple. None of the other journalists here invited their sources to the ceremony. In a sea of black bow ties, Suave is rocking this bright blood red tie. One by one, the winners are announced. They called him suave, like the shampoo, but whatever.

We walk up the iconic Columbia steps, through the doors, past statues of Zeus and Apollo. It feels like standing in a Greek temple. None of the other journalists here invited their sources to the ceremony. In a sea of black bow ties, Suave is rocking this bright blood red tie. One by one, the winners are announced. They called him suave, like the shampoo, but whatever.

We're edited by Marlon Bishop. Our production managers are Jessica Ellis and Nancy Trujillo. Our post-production producer is Dan Riveros. Scoring and sound design by Stephanie LaValle. Mixing by Stephanie LaValle, Julia Caruso, and JJ Caruven. Our executive producers are Maria Hinojosa, Luis Suave Gonzalez, Marlon Bishop, and Maria Garcia. Futuro Media was founded by Mariano Rosa.

We're edited by Marlon Bishop. Our production managers are Jessica Ellis and Nancy Trujillo. Our post-production producer is Dan Riveros. Scoring and sound design by Stephanie LaValle. Mixing by Stephanie LaValle, Julia Caruso, and JJ Caruven. Our executive producers are Maria Hinojosa, Luis Suave Gonzalez, Marlon Bishop, and Maria Garcia. Futuro Media was founded by Mariano Rosa.

Special thanks to Maggie Freeling, Audrey Quinn, Antonia Serejido, Fernanda Echavarri, Neil Rossini, students at the I Am More program at the Community College of Philadelphia, the Abolitionist Law Center, Community Legal Services of Philadelphia, and the Campaign for the Fair Sentencing of Youth. Season 2 of Suave was made possible by the Mellon Foundation.

Special thanks to Maggie Freeling, Audrey Quinn, Antonia Serejido, Fernanda Echavarri, Neil Rossini, students at the I Am More program at the Community College of Philadelphia, the Abolitionist Law Center, Community Legal Services of Philadelphia, and the Campaign for the Fair Sentencing of Youth. Season 2 of Suave was made possible by the Mellon Foundation.

Mellon makes grants to support the visionaries and communities that unlock the power of the arts and humanities to help connect us all. More at Mellon.org. Season 2 of Suave was made possible in part by Public Welfare Foundation, catalyzing transformative approaches to justice that are community-led, restorative, and racially just.

Mellon makes grants to support the visionaries and communities that unlock the power of the arts and humanities to help connect us all. More at Mellon.org. Season 2 of Suave was made possible in part by Public Welfare Foundation, catalyzing transformative approaches to justice that are community-led, restorative, and racially just.

In case you're interested, here's a little more of the Mr. Pulitzer song we played earlier. It's performed by Suave's friend, Joey DeVille.

In case you're interested, here's a little more of the Mr. Pulitzer song we played earlier. It's performed by Suave's friend, Joey DeVille.

Hey, Suave listeners, it's Julieta here. Are you tired of waiting each week for new episodes to come out? Well, you can listen to the whole season of Suave right now, plus exclusive bonus episodes by joining Futuro Plus. And you'll be helping support the independent journalism that we do here at Futuro. Join now at futuromediagroup.org backslash join plus.

Hey, Suave listeners, it's Julieta here. Are you tired of waiting each week for new episodes to come out? Well, you can listen to the whole season of Suave right now, plus exclusive bonus episodes by joining Futuro Plus. And you'll be helping support the independent journalism that we do here at Futuro. Join now at futuromediagroup.org backslash join plus.

On stage, we hold hands, and Suave holds the award. Suave decides immediately he's gonna be the one to keep it. After dinner, there's a reception. There's lots of very polite mingling happening over wine. Pretty boring, to be honest. So we sneak off outside for some fun of our own. Right on the Columbia steps, we sip on our drinks. Maybe even a little joint gets sparked.

On stage, we hold hands, and Suave holds the award. Suave decides immediately he's gonna be the one to keep it. After dinner, there's a reception. There's lots of very polite mingling happening over wine. Pretty boring, to be honest. So we sneak off outside for some fun of our own. Right on the Columbia steps, we sip on our drinks. Maybe even a little joint gets sparked.

In this moment, everything is perfect. A man who was in prison for more than 30 years just won the highest award in journalism. That was the night that Mr. Pulitzer was born.

In this moment, everything is perfect. A man who was in prison for more than 30 years just won the highest award in journalism. That was the night that Mr. Pulitzer was born.

Mr. Pulitzer living his best life. It's happily ever after, right? From Futuro Studios, this is Suave. I'm Julieta Martinelli. In 2017, David Luis Suave Gonzalez was released from prison after 31 years serving a life sentence without parole. He was one of thousands of juvenile lifers granted a second chance at life.

Mr. Pulitzer living his best life. It's happily ever after, right? From Futuro Studios, this is Suave. I'm Julieta Martinelli. In 2017, David Luis Suave Gonzalez was released from prison after 31 years serving a life sentence without parole. He was one of thousands of juvenile lifers granted a second chance at life.

This is his story about life after incarceration and the search for the true meaning of freedom. This is season two. Maria, how are you?

This is his story about life after incarceration and the search for the true meaning of freedom. This is season two. Maria, how are you?

Yes, of course. So you are legendary journalist, Mariano Rosa, the host of Latino USA and the founder of Futuro Media.

Yes, of course. So you are legendary journalist, Mariano Rosa, the host of Latino USA and the founder of Futuro Media.

Yeah. Hi, so I'm Julieta. I've been covering criminal justice pretty much all of my career. And I'm actually the co-producer of season one of Suaves. So I was always there in the background reporting and writing for the show. And you might have even heard me here and there in that season, most notably on episode six while running down the street. Like running. Threw me off.

Yeah. Hi, so I'm Julieta. I've been covering criminal justice pretty much all of my career. And I'm actually the co-producer of season one of Suaves. So I was always there in the background reporting and writing for the show. And you might have even heard me here and there in that season, most notably on episode six while running down the street. Like running. Threw me off.

Well, clearly he lives in that house. and we should hurry the fuck up and get out of here.

Well, clearly he lives in that house. and we should hurry the fuck up and get out of here.

Yeah, and you know, I applied for the job to work on season one because the prison system has always been really real for me, right? It's always been a part of my life. I grew up around a lot of people that were affected by the carceral system. And, you know, one of the first memories I have is of my dad being accused of a crime.

Yeah, and you know, I applied for the job to work on season one because the prison system has always been really real for me, right? It's always been a part of my life. I grew up around a lot of people that were affected by the carceral system. And, you know, one of the first memories I have is of my dad being accused of a crime.

And my mom wanting to separate us from all of that and bringing us to the U.S. And here I was undocumented. I grew up in a community around a lot of undocumented people. So heavy police presence. You know, I've seen a lot of people lose their freedom. And I think that really taught me that people are very complex, that people can be good and do bad things.

And my mom wanting to separate us from all of that and bringing us to the U.S. And here I was undocumented. I grew up in a community around a lot of undocumented people. So heavy police presence. You know, I've seen a lot of people lose their freedom. And I think that really taught me that people are very complex, that people can be good and do bad things.

And I don't think that we're always telling the story about those gray areas, right? And so the story we're telling this season, it's a little different from last time.

And I don't think that we're always telling the story about those gray areas, right? And so the story we're telling this season, it's a little different from last time.

It's about the long shadow of prison, about the challenges that no one warns you about when you get out, and about how after spending the majority of his life locked up, freedom for Suave has not been everything he imagined it would be.

It's about the long shadow of prison, about the challenges that no one warns you about when you get out, and about how after spending the majority of his life locked up, freedom for Suave has not been everything he imagined it would be.

So, you know, Maria, when season one ended in 2021, Suave was focused on starting his new life in Philadelphia. And I think we could have stopped documenting there. I mean, we definitely thought about it, right?

So, you know, Maria, when season one ended in 2021, Suave was focused on starting his new life in Philadelphia. And I think we could have stopped documenting there. I mean, we definitely thought about it, right?

Early on in reporting, I asked Suave what he thought this season should be about. But as I've been thinking about writing season two, in season one, we ended with you really wanting like some stability, wanting to get a stable job, like a relationship. That's kind of where you were when we ended. I see you laughing and it's killing me.

Early on in reporting, I asked Suave what he thought this season should be about. But as I've been thinking about writing season two, in season one, we ended with you really wanting like some stability, wanting to get a stable job, like a relationship. That's kind of where you were when we ended. I see you laughing and it's killing me.

So my question is... If I use this tape here in the episode one, what does Suave want to achieve in season two?

So my question is... If I use this tape here in the episode one, what does Suave want to achieve in season two?

This is the voice of a man who's found himself at the end of his rope. A man who survived more than 30 years in a max security prison, got out, became successful, built what many would consider is a dream life. And now, seven years later, was risking it all.

This is the voice of a man who's found himself at the end of his rope. A man who survived more than 30 years in a max security prison, got out, became successful, built what many would consider is a dream life. And now, seven years later, was risking it all.

Especially after the Pulitzer. I mean, things really just took off.

Especially after the Pulitzer. I mean, things really just took off.

I think that the juvenile lifer decision is... The live podcast recordings are a big success.

I think that the juvenile lifer decision is... The live podcast recordings are a big success.

And he's drawing the attention of some very important people.

And he's drawing the attention of some very important people.

Yeah. And maybe it's fed into his tendency that he already has to be a little bit of a diva, for lack of a better word.

Yeah. And maybe it's fed into his tendency that he already has to be a little bit of a diva, for lack of a better word.

So Joey DeVille, a younger friend of Suave that he mentors, he told us a story about one of those moments that Suave had at a restaurant where they were eating.

So Joey DeVille, a younger friend of Suave that he mentors, he told us a story about one of those moments that Suave had at a restaurant where they were eating.

So what you're saying is, like, if a white man comes in and, like, doesn't like what he's being served, nobody's going to call him a diva for complaining?

So what you're saying is, like, if a white man comes in and, like, doesn't like what he's being served, nobody's going to call him a diva for complaining?

Bro, are you even an abolitionist? They asked you to give them a week before you contacted the police on someone who's on parole. And you couldn't even do that? Do you believe in reform? All of this to promote your lame podcast? You're a desperate clown. Stop it. You sound like a fucking crybaby. Grow up. This is not what an abolitionist does.

Bro, are you even an abolitionist? They asked you to give them a week before you contacted the police on someone who's on parole. And you couldn't even do that? Do you believe in reform? All of this to promote your lame podcast? You're a desperate clown. Stop it. You sound like a fucking crybaby. Grow up. This is not what an abolitionist does.

Just a few hours later, all of Suave's posts about the car situation are completely wiped from his Instagram account. The next day, I finally get on the phone with Suave. And his story is different. I wanted to know what happened after you posted the stuff.

Just a few hours later, all of Suave's posts about the car situation are completely wiped from his Instagram account. The next day, I finally get on the phone with Suave. And his story is different. I wanted to know what happened after you posted the stuff.

The next time we talk, it's clear to me that the negative responses from some of the folks in the movement have really gotten under his skin.

The next time we talk, it's clear to me that the negative responses from some of the folks in the movement have really gotten under his skin.

Okay. The way he's talking, I mean, my skin was crawling. I... I just, it was so hard for me to hear the things that he was saying.

Okay. The way he's talking, I mean, my skin was crawling. I... I just, it was so hard for me to hear the things that he was saying.

I think it's so hard because you don't know how to help, how to be there for him. You know, he's pulled away. I feel like he's spiraling, but he's also an adult and he doesn't want us to be there. So what do you do? One day, I get an early morning text.

I think it's so hard because you don't know how to help, how to be there for him. You know, he's pulled away. I feel like he's spiraling, but he's also an adult and he doesn't want us to be there. So what do you do? One day, I get an early morning text.

What? Fuck me. Oh, my God. Oh, my fucking God.

What? Fuck me. Oh, my God. Oh, my fucking God.

Suave says he's quitting. He's done with the podcast. No explanation. He's just done.

Suave says he's quitting. He's done with the podcast. No explanation. He's just done.

Things are tense, but I ask him if it's okay that I schedule a meeting with him and everybody else on the team so that we can at least try and resolve things or at least get an answer as to why he's trying to quit. Suave accepts.

Things are tense, but I ask him if it's okay that I schedule a meeting with him and everybody else on the team so that we can at least try and resolve things or at least get an answer as to why he's trying to quit. Suave accepts.

Suave, just let me know if you can hear me. Yeah, I can hear you. My heart is breaking because of everything that's happened in your life over the last month. I just wanted to say.

Suave, just let me know if you can hear me. Yeah, I can hear you. My heart is breaking because of everything that's happened in your life over the last month. I just wanted to say.

From Futuro Studios, this is Suave. I'm Julieta Martinelli. In 2017, David Luis Suave Gonzalez was released from prison after 31 years serving a life sentence without parole. He was one of thousands of juvenile lifers granted a second chance at life. This is a story about life after incarceration and the search for the true meaning of freedom. This is season two. Today's episode, the car drama.

From Futuro Studios, this is Suave. I'm Julieta Martinelli. In 2017, David Luis Suave Gonzalez was released from prison after 31 years serving a life sentence without parole. He was one of thousands of juvenile lifers granted a second chance at life. This is a story about life after incarceration and the search for the true meaning of freedom. This is season two. Today's episode, the car drama.

He calls me that night. I don't record our conversation, but he basically says that he changed his mind and he never really wanted to quit.

He calls me that night. I don't record our conversation, but he basically says that he changed his mind and he never really wanted to quit.

But that cryptic thing he said in the meeting, I don't know how much time I'm going to be alive. I mean, what is he thinking of doing? And again, it sounds like he's ready to throw everything, everything away, even life itself.

But that cryptic thing he said in the meeting, I don't know how much time I'm going to be alive. I mean, what is he thinking of doing? And again, it sounds like he's ready to throw everything, everything away, even life itself.

Over the winter holidays, the Futuro office is closed. Everything is on pause. Until a couple of days after Christmas, when I get a text message from Suave. I call him immediately.

Over the winter holidays, the Futuro office is closed. Everything is on pause. Until a couple of days after Christmas, when I get a text message from Suave. I call him immediately.

A little over two months since this whole car ordeal began, Suave finally gets the news that they found his car. He says he got a phone call from the Philadelphia Police Department. His car was at an impound and he needed to come pick it up. When he got there, they told him that they had arrested a male driver, a name that he doesn't recognize. And that was it. Case closed.

A little over two months since this whole car ordeal began, Suave finally gets the news that they found his car. He says he got a phone call from the Philadelphia Police Department. His car was at an impound and he needed to come pick it up. When he got there, they told him that they had arrested a male driver, a name that he doesn't recognize. And that was it. Case closed.

But Suave at least finally had his car back. How do you feel?

But Suave at least finally had his car back. How do you feel?

A little before the car was found, Maria and I actually decided to go visit Suave in person. Frankly, we were just really worried about him and we wanted to make sure that he was okay. In Philly, I meet Maria at Suave's studio. Almost every inch of the walls is covered in paintings. And there's a new one that catches our eye.

A little before the car was found, Maria and I actually decided to go visit Suave in person. Frankly, we were just really worried about him and we wanted to make sure that he was okay. In Philly, I meet Maria at Suave's studio. Almost every inch of the walls is covered in paintings. And there's a new one that catches our eye.

I'm looking at this painting and I'm like, what is going on here? There are three monks who are sitting cross-legged on the floor and they look completely at peace. And then in between them, there's this empty space.

I'm looking at this painting and I'm like, what is going on here? There are three monks who are sitting cross-legged on the floor and they look completely at peace. And then in between them, there's this empty space.

He tells us that the empty space is for him.

He tells us that the empty space is for him.

That's right, that's right.

That's right, that's right.

Exacto, exacto.

Exacto, exacto.

It's the first time that we've heard something like self-reflection from Suave about how all of this triggered him and how all of this led to his reaction. And, you know, after weeks of conversations about dying or about going back to prison, I mean, at this point, it is truly just comforting to see him in the flesh, alive, and not in prison.

It's the first time that we've heard something like self-reflection from Suave about how all of this triggered him and how all of this led to his reaction. And, you know, after weeks of conversations about dying or about going back to prison, I mean, at this point, it is truly just comforting to see him in the flesh, alive, and not in prison.

Over the next several hours, we find ourselves locked in Suave's tiny studio. We set up our chairs around a tiny wooden nightstand while Suave's three cats nuzzle our ankles. And we just talk.

Over the next several hours, we find ourselves locked in Suave's tiny studio. We set up our chairs around a tiny wooden nightstand while Suave's three cats nuzzle our ankles. And we just talk.

You said something yesterday that I think is probably in the top three most scariest things that you've ever said. So when you said yesterday, on the sixth anniversary of your release, that you had actually envisioned and prepared for your return, that you knew that there was going to be no coming back, this has me terrified.

You said something yesterday that I think is probably in the top three most scariest things that you've ever said. So when you said yesterday, on the sixth anniversary of your release, that you had actually envisioned and prepared for your return, that you knew that there was going to be no coming back, this has me terrified.

No, here's what I think. I think we have to do a radical change. That's what I think. And I think that. What's a radical change? Get the fuck out of Philly. Stop being in this place.

No, here's what I think. I think we have to do a radical change. That's what I think. And I think that. What's a radical change? Get the fuck out of Philly. Stop being in this place.

Bella, we're going to New York. You're talking like you can just pack up and go to prison. You don't have to take shit with you. So my thing is, I understand you.

Bella, we're going to New York. You're talking like you can just pack up and go to prison. You don't have to take shit with you. So my thing is, I understand you.

Suave?

Suave?

And the truth is, he's right. I mean, I don't understand. As much as I know Suave, our lives really are incredibly different, right? I wasn't that little boy who grew up in pretty extreme poverty, who experienced a lot of violence around him as part of his daily life. You know, I don't live with the trauma of decades in prison anymore.

And the truth is, he's right. I mean, I don't understand. As much as I know Suave, our lives really are incredibly different, right? I wasn't that little boy who grew up in pretty extreme poverty, who experienced a lot of violence around him as part of his daily life. You know, I don't live with the trauma of decades in prison anymore.

What is going on? Like, seriously, I don't know. I mean, you tell me it's an emergency.

What is going on? Like, seriously, I don't know. I mean, you tell me it's an emergency.

So, of course, I feel like I'm helping him by trying to offer some solutions. But the thing is, for Suave, just walking away after this kind of violation, kind of just saying, no, no, no, no, don't worry. I'm just going to turn the other cheek. I mean, that's really hard for him.

So, of course, I feel like I'm helping him by trying to offer some solutions. But the thing is, for Suave, just walking away after this kind of violation, kind of just saying, no, no, no, no, don't worry. I'm just going to turn the other cheek. I mean, that's really hard for him.

We talk for hours. It isn't an easy conversation, but it's good to talk. I don't like things which is awkward and weird and like this is intense, but it's like, it's love. And I don't want it to end on some Philly Channel 12, whatever news.

We talk for hours. It isn't an easy conversation, but it's good to talk. I don't like things which is awkward and weird and like this is intense, but it's like, it's love. And I don't want it to end on some Philly Channel 12, whatever news.

No, I did not. Oh, okay. So today I'm getting things ready for a trip. And then I get this call from Suave. And yeah, he had texted me earlier. He said that we needed to talk. He said it was an emergency. Right. I remember you told me and you showed me a picture and it looked it looked like they had sideswiped you.

No, I did not. Oh, okay. So today I'm getting things ready for a trip. And then I get this call from Suave. And yeah, he had texted me earlier. He said that we needed to talk. He said it was an emergency. Right. I remember you told me and you showed me a picture and it looked it looked like they had sideswiped you.

In the end, we sit in comforting silence. Things seem to be cool. Everybody's chilled out. And then Maria pulls out something from her purse.

In the end, we sit in comforting silence. Things seem to be cool. Everybody's chilled out. And then Maria pulls out something from her purse.

I'm going to light some incense.

I'm going to light some incense.

I'm doing a little limpia.

I'm doing a little limpia.

And Suave's not feeling it. Major eye rolls.

And Suave's not feeling it. Major eye rolls.

You are. That's the whole idea. It's putting a protective circle around you, Suave.

You are. That's the whole idea. It's putting a protective circle around you, Suave.

A protective circle around Suave. I keep trying to gauge how Suave is really feeling. I know that he's experienced this before, at the hands of some very important women in his life.

A protective circle around Suave. I keep trying to gauge how Suave is really feeling. I know that he's experienced this before, at the hands of some very important women in his life.

Who saved you from prison? Oh, your mother and your grandmother and your aunt, who were haciendo limpias todo el tiempo.

Who saved you from prison? Oh, your mother and your grandmother and your aunt, who were haciendo limpias todo el tiempo.

Especially his mother, who was a very dedicated santera when she was alive. Santería is an ancestral spiritual practice from the Caribbean, with roots in Africa. Suave's mother taught him how to survive. And according to Suave's brother, Tony, she always believed, with everything she had, that Suave would one day be free.

Especially his mother, who was a very dedicated santera when she was alive. Santería is an ancestral spiritual practice from the Caribbean, with roots in Africa. Suave's mother taught him how to survive. And according to Suave's brother, Tony, she always believed, with everything she had, that Suave would one day be free.

So much so that you may remember from season one that she forbade anyone from ever saying in her presence or her home that Suave was going to spend the rest of his life in prison.

So much so that you may remember from season one that she forbade anyone from ever saying in her presence or her home that Suave was going to spend the rest of his life in prison.

And so maybe, maybe the best thing for Suave actually is to get the hell out of Philly. And so right there and then, I'm like, look, we got to take a trip. We got to go to this place that in a lot of ways is the beginning of Suave's story. The beginning of this cycle of trauma and loneliness and abandonment that ultimately gets Suave to prison.

And so maybe, maybe the best thing for Suave actually is to get the hell out of Philly. And so right there and then, I'm like, look, we got to take a trip. We got to go to this place that in a lot of ways is the beginning of Suave's story. The beginning of this cycle of trauma and loneliness and abandonment that ultimately gets Suave to prison.

It's a place that is really important because it's the place where Suave's mother was born. Puerto Rico.

It's a place that is really important because it's the place where Suave's mother was born. Puerto Rico.

Suave is a production of Futuro Studios. To binge every episode of Suave Season 2 right now, plus exclusive bonus episodes, subscribe to Futuro Plus. The senior producer, reporter, and host is me, Julieta Martinelli. Our associate producer is Liliana Ruiz. We're edited by Marlon Bishop. Our production managers are Jessica Ellis and Nancy Trujillo. Our post-production producer is Dan Riveros.

Suave is a production of Futuro Studios. To binge every episode of Suave Season 2 right now, plus exclusive bonus episodes, subscribe to Futuro Plus. The senior producer, reporter, and host is me, Julieta Martinelli. Our associate producer is Liliana Ruiz. We're edited by Marlon Bishop. Our production managers are Jessica Ellis and Nancy Trujillo. Our post-production producer is Dan Riveros.

Scoring and sound design by Stephanie LeBow. Mixing by Stephanie LeBow, Julia Caruso, and JJ Caruven. Our fact checker is Amy Tardif. Production help from Joaquin Kotler, Juan Diego Ramirez, Nicole Rothwell, Joey Del Valle, Evelyn Fajardo-Alvarez, Glorimar Marquez, and Tasha Sandoval. Our executive producers are Maria Hinojosa, Luis Suave Gonzalez, Marlon Bishop, and Maria Garcia.

Scoring and sound design by Stephanie LeBow. Mixing by Stephanie LeBow, Julia Caruso, and JJ Caruven. Our fact checker is Amy Tardif. Production help from Joaquin Kotler, Juan Diego Ramirez, Nicole Rothwell, Joey Del Valle, Evelyn Fajardo-Alvarez, Glorimar Marquez, and Tasha Sandoval. Our executive producers are Maria Hinojosa, Luis Suave Gonzalez, Marlon Bishop, and Maria Garcia.

Futura Media was founded by Mariano Hossa. Special thanks to Maggie Freeling, Audrey Quinn, Antonia Cerejido, Fernanda Echavarri, Neil Rossini, students at the I Am More program at the Community College of Philadelphia, the Abolitionist Law Center, Community Legal Services of Philadelphia, and the Campaign for the Fair Sentencing of Youth.

Futura Media was founded by Mariano Hossa. Special thanks to Maggie Freeling, Audrey Quinn, Antonia Cerejido, Fernanda Echavarri, Neil Rossini, students at the I Am More program at the Community College of Philadelphia, the Abolitionist Law Center, Community Legal Services of Philadelphia, and the Campaign for the Fair Sentencing of Youth.

So Suave tells me that a neighbor had backed up into his car while parking on the street a few weeks ago. And I don't think it's very serious, right? Like I think he maybe needed a new bumper, a fender. And Suave tells me he decided to handle the repairs himself since his neighbor didn't have insurance and he just wanted to resolve the whole thing.

So Suave tells me that a neighbor had backed up into his car while parking on the street a few weeks ago. And I don't think it's very serious, right? Like I think he maybe needed a new bumper, a fender. And Suave tells me he decided to handle the repairs himself since his neighbor didn't have insurance and he just wanted to resolve the whole thing.

Season 2 of Suave was made possible by the Mellon Foundation. Mellon makes grants to support the visionaries and communities that unlock the power of the arts and humanities to help connect us all. More at Mellon.org. Season 2 of Suave was made possible in part by Public Welfare Foundation, catalyzing transformative approaches to justice that are community-led, restorative, and racially just.

Season 2 of Suave was made possible by the Mellon Foundation. Mellon makes grants to support the visionaries and communities that unlock the power of the arts and humanities to help connect us all. More at Mellon.org. Season 2 of Suave was made possible in part by Public Welfare Foundation, catalyzing transformative approaches to justice that are community-led, restorative, and racially just.

From PRX.

From PRX.

Hey, Suave listeners, it's Julieta here. Are you tired of waiting each week for new episodes to come out? Well, you can listen to the whole season of Suave right now, plus exclusive bonus episodes by joining Futuro Plus. And you'll be helping support the independent journalism that we do here at Futuro. Join now at futuromediagroup.org backslash join plus.

Hey, Suave listeners, it's Julieta here. Are you tired of waiting each week for new episodes to come out? Well, you can listen to the whole season of Suave right now, plus exclusive bonus episodes by joining Futuro Plus. And you'll be helping support the independent journalism that we do here at Futuro. Join now at futuromediagroup.org backslash join plus.

Shortly after this happened, Suavez says he was at a justice reform event in Philly, and he was talking about what happened with a woman. She's an activist who was also formerly incarcerated, and he just knew her casually from these kind of events. Suavez says the woman told him that her boyfriend worked at a body shop and that he could fix his car on the side for pretty cheap.

Shortly after this happened, Suavez says he was at a justice reform event in Philly, and he was talking about what happened with a woman. She's an activist who was also formerly incarcerated, and he just knew her casually from these kind of events. Suavez says the woman told him that her boyfriend worked at a body shop and that he could fix his car on the side for pretty cheap.

And as far as Suave is concerned, the car is in the shop.

And as far as Suave is concerned, the car is in the shop.

After about a week of not hearing anything, Suave says he begins to call the woman who took the car to the shop. And, like, nothing. So he begins to worry.

After about a week of not hearing anything, Suave says he begins to call the woman who took the car to the shop. And, like, nothing. So he begins to worry.

And not long after that, something strange happens.

And not long after that, something strange happens.

The judge writes that the woman is, quote, having a mental breakdown, and I do not want her to go back to jail, which is what will happen if you report this now.

The judge writes that the woman is, quote, having a mental breakdown, and I do not want her to go back to jail, which is what will happen if you report this now.

Suave tells me that the woman who allegedly took his car had been helping that judge reach voters during their election campaign. And there's a video on the woman's Instagram actually telling people to vote for that judge. So Suave is already upset that he doesn't even know where his car is. And now, I mean, no, no, he does not take this text message well at all.

Suave tells me that the woman who allegedly took his car had been helping that judge reach voters during their election campaign. And there's a video on the woman's Instagram actually telling people to vote for that judge. So Suave is already upset that he doesn't even know where his car is. And now, I mean, no, no, he does not take this text message well at all.

So he calls the police and reports his car stolen. Over the next few days, Suave and I talk on the phone often. Are you there?

So he calls the police and reports his car stolen. Over the next few days, Suave and I talk on the phone often. Are you there?

What's been going on?

What's been going on?

As time passes and there's no news about the car, I start to hear an edge in Suave's voice.

As time passes and there's no news about the car, I start to hear an edge in Suave's voice.