The Hustler Files Ep 111 Part 1

In Episode 108, Attorney Charlie Weiss shared the wrongful conviction and exoneration of Josh Kezer, a man who spent sixteen years in prison for a murder he didn’t commit. That interview led to a compelling conversation with former Scott County Sheriff Rick Walter. Rick shares his harrowing experience of discovering the body of Mischelle Lawless in 1992 and the subsequent investigation by a previous Sheriff, which led to the wrongful conviction of Josh Kezer. Rick discusses the complexities of the case, his journey through law enforcement that led him to serve three terms in Scott County, and the emotional weight of reopening a case, as now Sheriff, that haunted him for decades. Listen in as we unpack the intricacies of justice, the impact of personal history, and the relentless pursuit of truth. 

The Hustler Files Ep 110

WHEN LIBERTY IS YOUR LAST NAME

In this milestone episode, The Hustler Files welcomes, for the first time, a Department of Corrections (prison) Commissioner. Randall Liberty is the head of the Department of Corrections in Maine, overseeing eight prison/correctional facilities. With over 43 years of experience in law enforcement, Commissioner Liberty shares his transformative journey from visiting his father in prison at the age of six to leading the most progressive corrections model in the US. Discover how he is reshaping the prison system by focusing on rehabilitation, education, and community reintegration, all while reducing violence and promoting dignity within the correctional environment. His innovative approaches such as salad bars from the prison gardens, a Christmas tree farm that returns the trees to local Vets and their families, and remote work opportunities, with fair market pay for residents of his prisons, plus the importance of treating residents with respect, is a testament to the power of change in the criminal justice system. Because when Liberty is your last name, your life’s mission is clear.

The Hustler Files Ep 109

TRUTH BE TOLD

Laurence Colletti is a seasoned podcast producer, writer, and attorney. For over a decade, he’s brought to light the stories and critical issues surrounding prison reform and wrongful convictions while hosting the Legal Talk Network Podcast and producing the For The Innocent Podcast. In this episode of The Hustler Files, Laurence shares his journey into podcasting, the emotional stories behind some of those who were wrongfully accused, and the impactful work that must continue to bring these narratives to light.

The Hustler Files Ep 108

THE BREAD AND BUTTER FOR HIS SOUL

The future isn’t about what you do. It’s about what you’re for.” Charlie Weiss never thought he’d become an attorney, but a chance meeting with a man of the cloth led him to a scholarship at Notre Dame Law School and a storied career fighting for the rights of those who are wronged. From his early days in law to his impactful pro bono work, Charlie shares inspiring stories of those wrongfully convicted individuals and why, at age 83, he continues his relentless pursuit of justice for those who are innocent and living behind bars. 

The Hustler Files Ep 107

FROM BEHIND BARS TO BETTER DADS

To date, 99 incarcerated men have participated in the Nurturing Fathers program at the Hampshire County Jail and it’s nothing short of transformative.  Incarcerated fathers seeking to reconnect with their children attend this 13-week program, behind the wall, to help them become better fathers.  Listen as Sheriff Patrick Cahillane shares insights on the program’s success since its inception in 2017, including the remarkable graduation rates and positive participant feedback. Also joining in is Steven Pascal from the Children’s Trust of Boston. Both the Sheriff and Steven share the importance of prevention in child welfare and the collaborative efforts aimed at reducing recidivism through fatherhood engagement. Tune in to discover how kindness, humility, and love can reshape lives and strengthen family bonds.

The Hustler Files Ep 106

FROM A GYM TO A COMMUNITY OF EQUALS

What started as a gym is now a community where people belong together. In this space, surrounded by weight machines, free weights, and mats, they are valued as equals, and those with lived experience are listened to as the experts. As April marks Fair Chance Hiring Month, guests Caz Walcott, Director of Inclusive Hiring at the Responsible Business Initiative for Justice (RBIJ), and Jon Feinman, Founder of Inner City Weightlifting share the transformative power of inclusive hiring practices and the importance of creating opportunities for justice-impacted individuals. Caz’s journey and the mission of RBIJ, emphasize their three pillars: reforming justice systems, restoring communities, and reframing narratives around second-chance hiring. Jon recounts his experiences founding Inner City Weightlifting and highlights the community-building aspect that transcends traditional fitness programs. Together, they explore the nuances of their work, the challenges they face, and the profound impact of fostering connections between diverse groups. Tune in to discover how both organizations are reshaping perceptions and creating pathways to success for those often overlooked by society.

The Hustler Files Ep 105

GIVING A VOICE TO THE SILENCED

With over two decades of experience, reporter Katie Johnston shares her journey from reporting on arts and entertainment to focusing on work and income inequality, specifically with incarcerated and justice-involved populations. Katie’s dedication to offering a voice to those who don’t have one, is the driving force behind her writing. In this episode, Katie discusses her recent articles that highlight the challenges and triumphs of individuals navigating reentry into society, including innovative programs in Maine that allow incarcerated individuals to work remotely from their jail cell and earn substantially more than the average worker in the US. Katie delves into the nuances of storytelling in journalism, the importance of giving a voice to marginalized communities, and the evolving landscape of criminal justice reform. It is and will continue to be the power of storytelling that offers hope to those striving for a second chance.

The Hustler Files Ep 104

AN UNINTENDED LIFE

To be in the wrong place at the wrong time cost William Allen 28 years behind bars for an unintended crime. William shares his tumultuous journey from his early days of family dysfunction, the guilt he carried from a childhood accident, and the pivotal moments that led him into a life of crime. He candidly recounts the fateful robbery that resulted in a tragic death and how he found himself facing life without parole. As he navigated the harsh realities of prison life, William discovered his passion for barbering and the importance of community support. After years of advocacy and a campaign for commutation, he emerged from incarceration with a renewed purpose. Now a leader in Second Chance Justice, William is dedicated to reforming the reentry system and helping others avoid the struggles he faced. Join us as we explore themes of redemption, responsibility, and the power of second chances in this heartfelt episode.

The Hustler Files Ep 103

TWO TRASH BAGS, $647 & NOWHERE TO GO

In this powerful episode Miguel Vazquez engages in a heartfelt conversation about his journey from the streets of Brooklyn to an 18-year prison sentence. His story is nothing short of transformative. Miguel opens up about his challenging upbringing in a single-parent household, the loss of his mother, and the choices that led him down a path of crime and incarceration. His candid reflections reveal the harsh realities of life behind bars, the struggles with gang affiliation, and the profound impact of isolation on his mental health. After serving nearly two decades, Miguel faced the daunting task of reintegrating into a world that had moved on without him. With only $647 to his name, he shares the challenges of navigating life post-incarceration, but Miguel’s story is also one of hope, redemption, and the importance of building bridges for others who will follow in his footsteps.

The Hustler Files Ep 102

EMPLOY, TEACH, ACT & HELP

At Baker Industries, an organization dedicated to providing fair chance hiring for marginalized communities in Eastern Pennsylvania, their mission is centered around four simple but powerful words. EMPLOY those who have the most difficulty in getting and holding jobs. TEACH the work ethic through real work experience. ACT as a transition step toward gaining and maintaining outside employment. HELP those who are both able and unable to move on to reach their highest level of achievement. Founded by Charlie and Weezie Baker in 1980, Baker Industries has evolved from a small garage operation into a thriving social enterprise that empowers individuals with disabilities, returning citizens, and those in recovery from addiction or homelessness. Join us as we speak with Nick Watson, the president of Baker Industries, and Nate Bunday, a graduate of their program who recently transitioned back into the workforce after 29 years of incarceration. Together, they share insights on the importance of second chances, the challenges faced by those re-entering society, and the vital role of community support in fostering success. Discover how Baker Industries is reshaping lives and breaking down barriers to employment, proving that everyone deserves a chance to thrive.