EP 395: Interview with Martin Lockett

Sobertown Podcast host Michal interviews keynote speaker, author, and substance abuse counselor Martin Lockett, who served 17.5 years in prison after a New Year’s Eve 2003 DUI crash in Portland that killed two women in long-term recovery and severely injured a third individual.  In this podcast, Martin describes early alcohol dependence, the crash, and the newspaper article about the victims that inspired him to honor their legacies through prevention and addiction work. In prison he pursued higher education, earning a bachelor’s degree in sociology and a master’s degree in psychology, completed substance abuse treatment, learned the difference between sobriety and recovery, and began sharing his story through DUI victim impact panels.  Upon release in 2021, he became a counselor and later a director focused on prevention and equity. Martin helped launch a “custody to counseling pipeline,” and now speaks nationally on DUI prevention, recovery, guilt vs. shame, and self-forgiveness. You can find more information on Martin Lockett's website, including links to his books Prison to Purpose Pipeline and My Prison Life: A Blogger's Insights from the Inside.  https://www.martinlockett.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/martinllockett?igsh=eWsyNGxqbHhsb3Nt   Martin Lockett is a highly sought-after keynote speaker, substance abuse counselor, author, and nationally recognized advocate for reducing DUI fatalities. He served 17½ years in prison following a DUI-related crash that claimed two lives and permanently injured another. At his sentencing, Lockett made a solemn vow to the victims’ families and friends to devote the rest of his life to honoring their legacies by helping others confront substance use disorders and speaking candidly about the devastating consequences of impaired driving. During his incarceration, Lockett earned a Bachelor of Science in Sociology and a Master of Science in Psychology, obtained state certification as a substance abuse counselor, and served as a mentor and role model to fellow inmates. He is the author of two books, Prison to Purpose Pipeline and My Prison Life, and began sharing his story through DUI victim impact panels—work he initiated while still incarcerated. Since his release in 2021, Lockett continues this mission by providing counseling support for individuals facing mental health and substance use challenges and sharing his powerful message of accountability, redemption, and hope at DUI victim impact panels, alcohol highway safety classes, high schools, colleges, and conferences nationwide, using his lived experience to inspire change and save lives.     About Michal: Michal is an American podcaster and sober warrior who believes every recovery journey is as unique as the individual traveling it. With over a decade of sobriety garnered through various recovery systems, programs, and support networks, she's passionate about breaking down stereotypes and smashing through the shame that can keep those suffering with addiction in the dark. Michal is an animal lover, rescue advocate, and tattooed motorcycle chick who has dedicated her life to helping others, whether in her personal or professional life.  Nothing makes her happier than hearing from her podcast listeners, so if you’re so inspired, drop an email with a suggestion for an Early Days podcast episode, feedback, or just to say hello! Contact Michal at: [email protected]      Other Sober Resources: I Am Sober App Sobertown Podcast Zoom Discussion Groups Sobertown Podcast Resource Center Recovery Online Meetings