The California Correctional Training and Rehabilitation Authority (CALCTRA) launched its new podcast, Prison to Purpose: Building Futures Behind Bars, in mid-January.
This podcast dives inside prisons and highlights powerful stories of transformation from both staff and incarcerated individuals.
“Prison to Purpose is amplifying voices of transformation and highlighting rehabilitation and job training inside prison,” said acting Director Suzie Changus. “This podcast is more than a series of conversations. It is an opportunity to understand what CALCTRA’s mission and vision truly stand for.”
Prison to Purpose explores how job training prepares incarcerated individuals for meaningful employment and long-term success after returning to their communities. Each episode features real stories that demonstrate how opportunity and support can redefine futures.
The second episode, released last week, features Tony Curtis, a graduate of CALCTRA’s Healthcare Facilities Maintenance program. Upon returning home, Curtis quickly found work cleaning hospitals. Today, he is the CEO of a solar company and the senior pastor of a Southern California church.
The podcast is hosted by Michele Kane, former CDCR spokesperson and now Deputy Director of CALCTRA’s External Affairs. Kane said the podcast highlights the rehabilitation efforts and programs taking place inside CDCR’s prisons.
“By sharing real stories of growth and success, this podcast reinforces CALCTRA’s mission,” Kane said. “When people are given access to job training, education, and hope, they can redefine their futures.”
Prison to Purpose: Building Futures Behind Bars is released every other Tuesday and is available on all major podcast platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeartRadio. Video episodes can also be viewed on CALCTRA’s YouTube channel.
>> Watch Kane interview Curtis on YouTube (may not play on a CDCR computer).
Follow CDCR on YouTube, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter). Listen to the CDCR Unlocked podcast.
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