From Waterbury to the World - Derrell Soulds Speaks Out

From Waterbury to the World - Derrell Soulds Speaks Out

From Mic Check by WPKN

November 24, 2025 · 24 min · Episode 20

About this episode

Derrell Soulds shares his personal journey and the impacts of systemic racism and the prison system on his life.

On the September 21, 2025 episode of Mic Check, host Mike Merli sat down with Derrell Soulds. Derrell was born in Waterbury, Connecticut to a single mother, and has two siblings. He has served over twenty years in and out of prison here in Connecticut, and is currently home and on a positive path. Derrell’s prized possessions are his family members. He has worked hard to earn certifications that include ServeSafe, OSHA 30, Flagging, and a Human Services Certificate via Asnuntuck Community College, with employment tenures at Valvoline Instant Oil Change, Global Steering Company, and as a Support Specialist for Entry Point Staffing. Derrell’s mantra is: “Through God, all things are possible.” During this program, Derrell speaks out about the impacts that systemic racism and the injustices within the prison system have had on him, while also shining a light on his journey, his childhood, the immense and profound love he has for his family, and his hopes and dreams for the future. Derrell welcomes correspondence and support via email at dsoulds731@gmail.com and via CashApp at $DerrellSoulds.

People in this episode

Host: Mike Merli

Guest: Derrell Soulds

Topics covered

  • systemic racism
  • prison system
  • personal journey
  • family
  • employment
  • certifications

Keywords

  • Derrell Soulds
  • systemic racism
  • prison
  • family
  • certifications
  • employment
  • Waterbury

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Asnuntuck Community College, Valvoline Instant Oil Change, Global Steering Company, Entry Point Staffing

Places: Waterbury, Connecticut

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