Episode #3: Gisele Castro

In this episode, Lisette Nieves speaks with Dr. Gisele Castro, President and CEO of Exalt, about the transformative power of second chances and the systems that shape young lives. Gisele shares her personal journey into this work and how Exalt is redefining support for justice-involved youth through mentorship, education, and real-world opportunities. Together, they challenge common narratives about youth and the justice system, emphasizing healing, dignity, and the importance of community. The conversation also explores leadership, resilience, and what it takes to build pathways for the next generation to thrive.

Dr. Gisele Castro is a visionary leader and steadfast advocate with over two decades of experience in the criminal justice system. As CEO of Exalt since 2016, she has led the organization’s growth from a $950,000 startup to an $8 million nationally recognized model, raising nearly $30 million to expand opportunities for justice-involved youth.

Under her leadership, Exalt has served over 2,000 young people, building pathways through education, employment, and mentorship. Giselle is a respected voice in the field, recognized for her impact by City & State, the NYC Imagine Awards, and the Robin Hood Power Fund. She holds a Doctorate in Leadership and Innovation from NYU, a Master’s from Pace University, and has conducted research at Oxford University.