Prison to Purpose

Michele Kane
  • 5.0 (2)
  • TRUE CRIME

Prison to Purpose: Building Futures Behind Bars is a podcast presented by the California Correctional Training and Rehabilitation Authority (CALCTRA) that explores the transformative power of job training and rehabilitation within California's state prisons. Prison to Purpose sheds light on pathways to personal growth, accountability, and opportunity—demonstrating how purpose-driven rehabilitation can strengthen individuals, families, and communities across California. This podcast highlights the life-changing career development programs CALCTRA offers to incarcerated individuals. CALCTRA prioritizes rehabilitation through vocational programs and supporting second chances, while training participants to produce quality products and services for its customers. Thousands of incarcerated individuals have received valuable job training through CALCTRA, and many graduates have successful careers. A University of California, Irvine study found that CALCTRA participants have a 15% return-to-custody rate after three years, meaning 85% do not return to prison. Follow real stories of transformation. Where rehabilitation meets real-world work and second chances.

Episodes

  1. 7H AGO

    Beneath the Surface: From Incarceration to Commercial Diving Part 2

    In Part 2 of this Prison to Purpose episode, we continue the conversation with Dave Calvert, a formerly incarcerated commercial diver who now serves as an assistant dive instructor with CALCTRA. Dave shares his journey through the Commercial Diving Program 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

    32 min

  2. APR 7

    Beneath the Surface: From Incarceration to Commercial Diving

    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

    45 min

  3. MAR 10

    From Incarceration to Leadership

    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

    46 min

  4. FEB 24

    Redemption and Transformation – Justin Ennis Success Story

    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

    47 min

  5. FEB 10

    Coding Behind Bars: CALCTRA & The Last Mile Partnership

    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.

    40 min

  6. JAN 27

    From Incarceration to Inspiration: Tony Curtis’ Journey with CALCTRA

    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

    35 min

  7. JAN 13

    Rebranding CALCTRA: A New Name, A Renewed Mission

    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

    29 min
  • 7 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Prison to Purpose: Building Futures Behind Bars is a podcast presented by the California Correctional Training and Rehabilitation Authority (CALCTRA) that explores the transformative power of job training and rehabilitation within California's state prisons. Prison to Purpose sheds light on pathways to personal growth, accountability, and opportunity—demonstrating how purpose-driven rehabilitation can strengthen individuals, families, and communities across California. This podcast highlights the life-changing career development programs CALCTRA offers to incarcerated individuals. CALCTRA prioritizes rehabilitation through vocational programs and supporting second chances, while training participants to produce quality products and services for its customers. Thousands of incarcerated individuals have received valuable job training through CALCTRA, and many graduates have successful careers. A University of California, Irvine study found that CALCTRA participants have a 15% return-to-custody rate after three years, meaning 85% do not return to prison. Follow real stories of transformation. Where rehabilitation meets real-world work and second chances.

Information

  • Creator
    Michele Kane
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    7
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 by Michele Kane
  • Show Website
    Prison to Purpose