Present in the Process: Mentoring Through Juvenile Detention

Phoenix, Az. May 27th, 2025.- In the latest episode of The Mentorship Blueprint, we dive into one of the hardest—and most important—parts of being a mentor: showing up, even when the impact isn’t immediately clear.

Mark sits down with Theo Landry III, a mentor who has supported a young person through the ups and downs of involvement in the juvenile justice system. Their conversation doesn’t shy away from the challenges. From courtrooms to confinement centers, Theo has been there—not with all the answers, but with unwavering presence.

Mentoring youth impacted by detention takes a unique kind of commitment. Progress is often slow. Hope can be fragile. There are moments when it feels like nothing is changing. And still, Theo kept showing up.

This episode reminds us that consistency is a radical act. That presence, especially in the hardest seasons, can mean more than any solution or strategy. It’s not about fixing—it’s about walking alongside. For youth navigating complex systems and personal trauma, a steady presence can be the difference between giving up and holding on.

At New Pathways for Youth, we believe in the long game. Mentorship isn’t measured in quick wins—it’s measured in trust, time, and transformation. Theo’s story is a testament to that belief. It’s a powerful look at the quiet strength it takes to stand by someone when the outcome is uncertain.

Because sometimes, just showing up—again and again—is the most life-changing thing a mentor can do.

If you’ve ever wondered whether showing up really matters—this conversation is for you. Tune in to The Mentorship Blueprint now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or Amazon Music, and be reminded of the transformative power of simply being there.