Who Got Me Here Frederick Riley: The People Who Hold Us Up
Frederick Riley grew up in Saginaw, Michigan surrounded by eviction notices, food insecurity, and the constant feeling that something might go wrong at any moment. Yet his story is ultimately one of possibility. Along the way, a remarkable network of people — a determined mother, a pastor, a principal, teachers, mentors, and neighbors — helped shape the path that would eventually lead him to become Executive Director of Weave: The Social Fabric Project at the Aspen Institute.
In this deeply personal conversation, Fred reflects on the moment he met his father for the first time at age eleven, the mentors who helped him see a bigger future, and the painful lessons that ultimately strengthened his commitment to community and service.
Fred also shares how his work today focuses on identifying and supporting “weavers,” the everyday people quietly rebuilding trust and connection in communities across America.
It is a powerful reminder that none of us gets where we are alone. Our lives are shaped by the people who see us, challenge us, and lift us up along the way.
Time Stamps:
00:00 – A Defining Moment: Feeling Seen for the First Time
02:20 – Growing Up with Instability
04:20 – How High Expectations Shape Young Minds
07:00 – Finding Role Models When Few Exist
09:00 – Identity, Confidence, and Being “The Collar Boys”
12:00 – Teachers Who Change Trajectories
15:30 – Purpose Through Service: Building Mentorship Programs
18:00 – Investing in Youth: Why Developing the Next Generation Matters
21:30 – Joining Weave and Building Community Trust
23:30 – The “Weavers” of America
25:00 – Volunteering vs. Weaving: Building Relationships
27:00 – What Thriving Communities Look Like for Young Boys
29:00 – Can Strong Communities Be Built at Scale?
30:30 – How Relationships Are Built in Everyday Life
32:00 – Learning to Be Honest and Kind to Yourself
34:30 – The Power of One Person Reaching Out
36:00 – Advice to His 12-Year-Old Self
37:30 – The Mentors Who Still Shape Him Today
38:30 – Networking as Humanity: Treating Everyone with Equal Dignity
39:30 – Three Simple Actions to Rebuild Community Today
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