Episodi

  • Beneath the Surface: From Incarceration to Commercial Diving Part 2
    Apr 21 2026

    In Part 2 of this Prison to Purpose episode, we continue the conversation about the nationally recognized Commercial Dive program inside prison. Hear from Dave Calvert, a formerly incarcerated commercial diver who now works as an assistant dive instructor with the California Correctional Training and Rehabilitation Authority. Dave shares his journey at the California Institution for Men in Chino and how the skills, discipline, and trust learned underwater helped reshape his future. He reflects on the responsibility of teaching others who are walking the same path he once did. This episode highlights the power of lived experience, second chances, and purpose passed forward.

    Watch and listen to new episodes of Prison to Purpose: Building Futures Behind Bars every other Tuesday and follow us on social media.

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CALCTRA/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calctra/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CALCTRA

    For resources related to today's episode, check out:

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H28gjP1a_kg&t=37s

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vMd0EURSi0

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=glfX4o5s4Yo&t=21s

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=puMpZXAwXqc

    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    32 min
  • Beneath the Surface: From Incarceration to Commercial Diving
    Apr 7 2026

    In this episode of Prison to Purpose, we dive into CALCTRA's Commercial Dive Program at the California Institution for Men in Chino. This prison program has gained world-wide attention through the decades. Incarcerated students learn everything from underwater welding, diving physics, along with all the aspects of commercial diving. Hear the amazing story behind Kenyatta Kalisana who once was incarcerated and is now the dive instructor. He shares his journey from prison to profession after completing the very program he now helps teach. This conversation explores what's possible when real skills, second chances, and purpose meet beneath the surface.

    Watch and listen to new episodes of Prison to Purpose: Building Futures Behind Bars every other Tuesday and follow us on social media.

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CALCTRA/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calctra/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CALCTRA

    For resources related to today's episode, check out:

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H28gjP1a_kg&t=37s

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vMd0EURSi0

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=glfX4o5s4Yo&t=21s

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=puMpZXAwXqc

    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    45 min
  • From Incarceration to Leadership
    Mar 10 2026

    In this powerful episode we sit down with Kyle Patterson, the Regional Manager for the Western States Regional Council of Carpenters. He also serves on the Correctional Training and Rehabilitation Board. Kyle shares his personal story on incarceration and how he was raised by a single mom with nine children in South LA. Hear how Kyle transformed his life and is now a leader shaping policies and creating real opportunities for rehabilitation and reentry. This episode is a moving reminder that with the right support, accountability, and opportunity, second chances can lead to leadership — and one person's comeback can inspire systemic change.

    Watch and listen to new episodes of Prison to Purpose: Building Futures Behind Bars every other Tuesday and follow us on social media.

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CALCTRA/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calctra/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CALCTRA

    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    46 min
  • Redemption and Transformation – Justin Ennis Success Story
    Feb 24 2026

    In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Justin Ennis, a powerful example of transformation and second chances. He shares how he went from being a prisoner to becoming a project manager for a successful commercial developer and the defining moment that changed the course of his life. Through the opportunities provided by the California Correctional Training and Rehabilitation Authority (CALCTRA), Justin discovered meaningful work, built real-world skills, and created a strong foundation for life after prison. He speaks openly about his struggles before incarceration, the journey that led him to where he is today, and how he gives back to his community. This episode will leave you feeling inspired and encouraged, showing that no matter where you start, change is possible.

    Watch and listen to new episodes of Prison to Purpose: Building Futures Behind Bars every other Tuesday and follow us on social media.

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CALCTRA/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calctra/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CALCTRA

    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    47 min
  • Coding Behind Bars: CALCTRA & The Last Mile Partnership
    Feb 10 2026

    In this episode, we explore the groundbreaking partnership between the California Correctional Training and Rehabilitation Authority (CALCTRA) and The Last Mile, a national program offering technical education and training to stop the cycle of incarceration. Together, they are reshaping what rehabilitation can look like in the modern era. Discover how “Coding Behind Bars” is equipping people with valuable tech skills that open doors to new careers and reduce recidivism. Hear how Meta Founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg toured the program and offered inspiration along with hiring a former graduate. Learn how technology and opportunity are transforming lives inside prisons.

    This conversation with The Last Mile Co-Founders Chris Redlitz and Beverly Parenti, and Executive Director Kevin McCracken, sheds light on how innovation, accountability, and opportunity can transform lives, strengthen communities, and redefine fair chances—proving that access to education can change individuals' futures.

    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    40 min
  • From Incarceration to Inspiration: Tony Curtis’ Journey with CALCTRA
    Jan 27 2026

    In this inspiring episode, we share the story of Tony Curtis, whose life was transformed through the California Correctional Training and Rehabilitation Authority (CALCTRA). Discover how CALCTRA helped Tony gain valuable skills, rebuild his future, and successfully reintegrate into the community. Join us to hear firsthand how opportunity and support can change lives behind and beyond the prison walls.

    Watch and listen to new episodes of Prison to Purpose: Building Futures Behind Bars every other Tuesday and follow us on social media.

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CALCTRA/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calctra/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CALCTRA

    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    35 min
  • Rebranding CALCTRA: A New Name, A Renewed Mission
    Jan 13 2026

    In this episode, we dive into the recent rebranding of the California Correctional Rehabilitation and Training Authority (CALCTRA), previously the California Prison Industry Authority (CALPIA), and exploring its new name and renewed mission. Learn about the organization's evolving role in supporting incarcerated individuals through job training and rehabilitation programs, and how these changes aim to create safer communities and reduce recidivism. Join us for an inside look at CALCTRA's journey toward a more impactful future.

    Watch and listen to new episodes of Prison to Purpose: Building Futures Behind Bars every other Tuesday and follow us on social media.

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CALCTRA/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calctra/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CALCTRA

    For resources related to today's episode, check out: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jv5Agx7nP4I&t=7s

    Mostra di più Mostra meno
    29 min