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Legal Aid Radio

Our weekly radio show airs on Walk 97.5 FM and highlights the humanity of the people who make up our community. We have guests on the show to discuss the myriad complexities within the criminal justice system.Legal Aid is the primary provider of indigent defense in criminal and family courts in Suffolk County. Simply put, if someone is accused of a crime or a family offense, they are entitled to counsel, and the courts will assign counsel if they do not have the wherewithal to afford a lawyer. We also provide support services for our clients in need of addiction intervention, housing, or mental health referrals.

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    #122 - Holding On to Love: Theresa Grady on Loss, Healing, & Justice

    On this episode of Legal Aid Radio, Theresa Grady shares the story of her husband, Morris Edward Grady, her first love and lifelong partner, whose life was cut short while incarcerated. Through heartbreak, she continues to rise as a voice for justice, fighting for dignity and fair treatment for aging people behind bars. It’s a powerful reminder that behind every sentence is a human being… and behind every loss is a family still learning how to heal.

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    #121 - A Conversation with Joessie Mathews: Restoring Hope Through Second Chances

    April is Second Chances Month, and if you’ve ever felt like your past was holding you back, this conversation is for you.On this episode of Legal Aid Radio, we’re talking to Joessie Mathews, a woman who turned her own life experience into a movement, helped pass the Clean Slate NY Bill, and is now inspiring others to rise, rebuild, and reclaim their future.

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    #120 - Growing Together: Autism & Neurodiversity with Sheree Sibilly Simmons

    Every day, people are misunderstood simply because they experience the world differently. Here on Legal Aid Radio, we’re shining a light on neurodiversity and on how a little understanding can go a long way. As more people hear terms like autism and neurodivergent, there’s still a gap between awareness and true understanding. What does it really mean? And how can we, as a community, respond with empathy instead of assumptions? On this episode, we’re joined by a powerful voice in this space, parent advocate Sheree Sibilly Simmons, who is working directly with children and families to help bridge that gap, connect people to resources, and remind us all that when we take the time to understand one another, we create stronger, more supportive communities for everyone.

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    #119 - Green Jackets: A Veteran-Centered Approach to Justice Pt. 2

    What if the people best equipped to help struggling veterans… are veterans themselves?On this episode of Legal Aid Radio, we take you inside the Green Jackets: a group of mentors, many of them Vietnam veterans, who stand beside fellow veterans in court, helping them rebuild their lives one step at a time.Joined again by Navy veteran Frank D’Aversa and retired Commander Grace Mehl, we explore how this unique program works and why its mission continues long after military service ends.

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    #118 - Green Jackets: A Veteran-Centered Approach to Justice

    What happens when the men and women who served their country come home and don’t receive the welcome they expected?On this episode of Legal Aid Radio, we explore how Vietnam veterans turned that experience into action: building a nationwide movement of support, and helping create a new kind of justice system designed specifically for those who served. We’ll hear from Vietnam-era Navy veteran and Green Jackets founder Frank D’Aversa, along with retired Navy Commander Grace Mehl, as they share the history behind Vietnam Veterans of America and the roots of Veterans Treatment Court.

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    #117 - Healing the Body While Doing the Work with Dr. Mike Sredniawski

    In this episode of Legal Aid Radio, we sit down with chiropractor Dr. Mike Sredniawski to explore the often-overlooked physical toll of working in and experiencing the criminal justice system. From chronic stress and burnout among advocates to untreated pain in individuals returning home from incarceration, we discuss how these experiences live in the body, and what can be done to heal. This conversation is all about shifting the focus toward self-care, recovery, and sustainable wellness for those doing the work and those rebuilding their lives.

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    #116 - Laurie Farber and the Future of Sustainability

    She’s a teacher, environmental steward, and community visionary who believes the path to a sustainable future begins with education, nature, and empowering the next generation. This Women’s History Month, as we celebrate women Leading the Change, we spotlight Laurie Farber, founder of Starflower Experiences, whose work is inspiring communities across Long Island to protect the planet and shape a healthier future for us all.

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    #115 - From Supervision to Serving: Chris Hynes' Second Chance in Action

    What happens when a knee injury ends your career… but launches your purpose?In this episode of Legal Aid Radio, we’re catching up with fan-favorite Chris Hynes, and trust me, this update is powerful.Since we last spoke, Chris has become a Certified Peer Recovery Advocate and a Certified Peer Specialist and now works with others on supervised release to rebuild their lives.He didn’t just survive the system. He studied it. He observed it. And now he’s working inside it. From construction worker to criminal justice change-maker, this is what transformation truly looks like.You do NOT want to miss this conversation.

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    #114 - Belief Beyond Barriers: A Conversation with William Clyde, Jr.

    What does it take to change the trajectory of a young person’s life?For nearly 50 years, one man has stood in the gap for students who didn’t meet traditional college standards, helping them not only enter higher education but also graduate. In this episode of Legal Aid Radio, host Debra Sterling Walters speaks with her former mentor, William Clyde, Jr., for a full-circle conversation about access, advocacy, and why sustainable solutions for our youth require more than dreams; they require opportunity.This is one you don’t want to miss.  

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    #113 - From Incarceration to Impact with Jeff Ball

    What if the moment that nearly broke you became the moment that built you? What if instead of walking away from pain, you chose to turn it into purpose?On this episode of Legal Aid Radio, we sit down with Jeff Ball, a Suffolk County native who didn’t just come home from incarceration… he came home with a mission. Jeff Ball could have walked away and started over quietly, but instead, he chose purpose over comfort. In this powerful Legal Aid Radio interview, Jeff shares his journey from growing up in Wyandanch to earning his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees, and why he committed his life to supporting people returning home from prison, even when it meant confronting his own past.  This is a conversation about resilience, reinvention, and what’s possible when you choose to let your past fuel your future rather than define it.  

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    #112 - Build to Grow: Eddie Ellis on Youth, Purpose, & Lifelong Learning

    On this episode of Legal Aid Radio, Eddie Ellis is back. Advocate, educator, and community leader Eddie Ellis joins us to discuss youth empowerment, life skills, and what it truly means to stay energized as a lifelong learner. From conference stages to hands-on workshops, this conversation is about growth, purpose, and building futures that last. Tune in to be inspired!

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    #111 - Think Outside the Cell Community

    Programs end. Classes end. But community doesn’t. We have more access than ever—more information, more social media, and more ways to connect, yet real human connection feels harder to find. For people coming home after incarceration, that gap can be everything. You can have the tools, the knowledge, even the motivation, but still feel like you’re rebuilding alone.In this episode of Legal Aid Radio, we’re talking about what happens when people stop trying to do it all by themselves and start showing up in the same room. Joe Robinson joins us to talk about building real community, real conversations, and real support because transformation doesn’t happen in isolation.

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    #110 - Remembrance of Mark Graham Pt. 2

    In this episode, we continue the conversation we began in our tribute to Mark Graham. This time, we focus on the critical question he dedicated his life to answering: What do returning citizens actually need in the first 48 hours after release? Those hours can make—or break—the path forward. Drawing from Mark’s lived experience, we explore the Redemption Center model he developed: a real, practical blueprint for reentry rooted in dignity, stability, and second chances. It’s the kind of solution Mark knew could transform lives—if only the world would listen.

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    #109 - Remembrance of Mark Graham Pt. 1

    On this episode, we honor the life and legacy of Mark Graham, an extraordinary advocate whose journey from incarceration to community leadership changed countless lives. His passing deeply affected his family, friends, and the many people he tirelessly fought for.Tune in as we hold space for that grief while confronting a hard truth. Despite the strides made by returning citizens, society still struggles to truly listen to those who’ve lived through the system. Why hasn’t compassion outweighed stigma, and what will it take for real change? Stay with us as we revisit Mark’s voice, his work, and his challenge to all of us.

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    #108 - Jayette Lansbury

    What would you do if the system that was supposed to protect your child… ended up swallowing him whole? On this episode, we’re sitting down with a mother who refused to stay silent.Jayette Lansbury’s son lives with a serious mental illness and is incarcerated, but this isn’t just a story of struggle. It’s a story of love, advocacy, and the extraordinary lengths a parent will go to fight for justice. Tune in as this conversation will change the way you see our criminal justice system, and the people inside it.

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    #107 - Eddie Ellis

    What happens when a 16-year-old boy facing 75 years to life decides his story isn’t over? On this episode, we sit down with Eddie Ellis Jr., a man who turned his time behind bars into nearly two decades of service, advocacy, and transformation. From solitary confinement to national stages, Eddie is proof that redemption has a voice. Listen in, and you’ll hear it.

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    #106 - From Conviction to Change Part 2 with Anthony Powers

    In episode #105, you heard how a 16-year-old boy faced a 77-year sentence… and found purpose behind bars. In Part Two of ‘From Conviction to Change’, Anthony Powers walks free, and walks straight into the fight for justice. From prison walls to policy halls, from incarceration to innovation — this is how data, determination, and redemption collide.  

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    #105 - From Conviction to Change Part 1 with Anthony Powers

    He was just sixteen… when a courtroom sentenced him to seventy-seven years in prison. But what if that sentence became the beginning of something bigger — a mission to change the justice system itself? On this episode of Legal Aid Radio, Part One of our two-part series, ‘From Conviction to Change’ — we explore the story of Anthony Powers, a man who transformed his prison cell into a classroom and his sentence into a cause.Tune in — you’re about to hear how redemption starts from the inside.

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    #104 - Communities Not Cages with Ismael Díaz, Jr.

    What if justice wasn’t about punishment — but about healing? On this episode of Legal Aid Radio, we sit down with advocate and change-maker Ismael Díaz, Jr., a man who’s lived the system and now works to transform it. From ending mandatory minimums to giving people a second chance — learn how three new bills could change the future of justice in New York.  

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    #103 - L.I. Against Domestic Violence Part 2

    When someone makes the courageous decision to leave an abusive situation, they need more than just a safe place to stay. They need guidance, advocacy, and hope for a new beginning. In Part Two of our series with LI Against Domestic Violence, we’ll explore the wide range of services they provide — and what makes this organization a lifeline for so many families on Long Island.

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    #102 - L.I. Against Domestic Violence Part 1

    Every day, countless individuals face the silent terror of domestic violence — behind closed doors, in homes that should feel safe. Today on Legal Aid Radio, we begin a two-part conversation with LI Against Domestic Violence, an organization that has spent decades walking beside survivors, offering safety, support, and a path toward healing. This is Part One: their humble beginnings, and the lives they touch.  

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    #101 - Customer Service in Local Government: A conversation with Dr. Dave Bennardo

    What if your local government operated like the best customer service team you’ve ever encountered—where every call is answered, every concern is respected, and every person is treated like a neighbor, not just a number? That’s the vision Huntington Councilman Dr. Dave Bennardo brings to his work. From turning schools into families to building bridges across communities, his leadership has always focused on putting people first. On this episode of Legal Aid Radio, we’ll explore how that same spirit shapes his reelection campaign and his vision for Huntington’s future.

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    #100 - Barbara Allen

    Imagine waking up one day to find your whole world turned upside down — your partner behind bars, your family in crisis, and no roadmap for what comes next. That was Barbara Allan’s reality. But instead of breaking under the weight, she built a movement. From founding Prison Families Anonymous to co-founding Prison Families Alliance, Barbara has become a voice for the millions of families serving ‘hidden sentences’ on the outside. Her story isn’t just about surviving — it’s about transforming pain into power, and isolation into community. And today, she’s here to share that journey with us.To get involved or learn more about Prison Families Alliance, you can contact them at: https://prisonfamiliesalliance.org/   

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    #99 - Town of Huntington Highway Superintendent Andre Sorrentino

    From fixing cars at 13 to fixing roads for Huntington, Andre Sorrentino’s story is about family, service, and giving back. On this episode of Legal Aid Radio, we sit down with Andre Sorrentino, Huntington’s Superintendent of Highways, community volunteer, and lifelong resident, to talk about his family’s legacy, his work for our town, and his vision for the future.

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    #98 - Huntington’s Heartbeat: Parks, Beaches, Roads & Refuse with Supervisor Ed Smyth

    On this episode of Legal Aid Radio… he’s back! Huntington Town Supervisor Ed Smyth joins us for a special conversation about where Huntington has been—and where the township is headed next.Ed Smyth's first term has been all about results from eight straight years under the tax cap to a Triple-A bond rating, record road paving, cleaner beaches, upgraded parks, and even bringing Steven Spielberg to town.Now, as he runs for re-election, we’ll talk about his vision for keeping Huntington’s suburban charm, boosting our economy, and protecting the places we love, from our parks to our shoreline. Tune in to this candid, behind-the-scenes conversation with the man steering Huntington’s future.

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    #97 - Anthony Capetola Part 2

    In Part Two of our sit-down with legal icon Anthony Capetola, we fast-forward from the past to the pressing future. Joined by respected attorneys Bryan Browns and Chelsea McGrath, Anthony weighs in on how the profession has transformed, and what’s next as technology and AI redefine justice. What do 54 years of legal wisdom say about where we’re headed? Tune in for bold insights, candid reflections, and a conversation that every future lawyer needs to hear.

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    #96 - Anthony Capetola Part 1

    From the streets of Jersey City to the highest ranks of New York’s legal elite, Anthony Capetola has seen it all. Nearly 54 years in the courtroom, decades of defending justice, and now... he's pulling back the curtain. In this powerful episode, we sit down with the legal legend himself, joined by attorneys Bryan Browns and Chelsea McGrath, as Anthony shares his raw, unfiltered story of how he built his legacy, tried murder cases six months out of law school, and helped shape modern courtroom practice. From rotary phones to real talk, this is Anthony like you’ve never heard him before.

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    #95 - Veterans Talk with Legislator Chad Lennon

    On this episode of Legal Aid Radio, we invite you into a deeply personal, profoundly important, and hopeful conversation. We’re honored to welcome back Suffolk County Legislator Chad Lennon, a dedicated advocate for veterans in Suffolk County and across the nation.Chad joins us to discuss Suffolk’s landmark steps toward veteran suicide awareness and prevention, including legislation, a flag that stands for remembrance and healing, and a powerful 66-mile journey he’ll be making this fall in honor of those we've lost—and those still fighting silent battles.This is not just a conversation about policy—it's about people, purpose, and the courage to break the silence around mental health in the veteran community. We ask our listeners to listen with open hearts as we explore how Suffolk County is taking action, how each of us can make a difference, and how no one—especially our veterans—should ever have to walk alone. You don’t want to miss this moving conversation about hope, remembrance, and what it really means to stand for our veterans. 

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    #94 - Dion Johnson Part 2

    Today, we are pleased to welcome back Dion Johnson, a returning guest whose journey of reintegration after incarceration sparked a powerful response from our listeners. When we last spoke, Dion opened up about the real-life challenges of starting over—and the critical role that meaningful employment plays for someone just coming home. Dion, you are back by popular demand! So many people have reached out wanting to know: What’s next? What’s new? And today, he’s here to give us the full rundown—from testifying for reform, to bailing out Black mothers from Rikers, to now working on the front lines of healthcare for justice-impacted individuals.Get ready for an update that’s not just personal—it’s part of a movement. This is about systems, second chances, and the power of purpose. 

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    #93 - Greg Grizopoulos

    Who is Greg Grizopoulos, and why is he running for Huntington Town Council?He’s more than a name on a ballot—he’s a former prosecutor, a respected trial attorney, a father of three, and a proud resident of Melville. Greg built his career on standing up for justice and defending the people of Long Island—both in the courtroom and in the community. From prosecuting violent crimes as an Assistant District Attorney to helping injured clients and those accused of a crime as a private attorney, Greg knows what it means to fight for fairness and safety. Now, he’s looking forward to bringing that same commitment to the Town of Huntington.—Protecting a suburban quality of life—Promoting responsible development, not overdevelopment—Ensuring public safety, transparency, and real representationThis isn’t about politics—it’s about people. Your neighborhood. Your family. Your voice.  

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    #92 - Bruce Bryan Part 2

    Last time on Legal Aid Radio… we met Bruce Bryan — a man who spent 28 and a half years behind bars for a crime he didn’t commit. The heartbreak. The injustice. The strength. But now... Bruce is back — and fighting for change.In this episode, Part Two, we continue the unforgettable journey of Bruce Bryan, going beyond the prison gates into the fight for justice, redemption, and a sense of purpose. What does freedom feel like after 10,000 days behind bars? How do you rebuild your life — and lead others to theirs?Because the system may have failed him... but he never gave up.  Tune in. Be moved. Take action.

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    #91 - Bruce Bryan Part 1

    What if your life changed forever... because of a crime you didn’t commit? In part 1Injustice and Survival of this episode on Legal Aid Radio, we bring you the unbelievable true story of Bruce Bryan—wrongfully convicted, sentenced to life, and caged for 28 and a half years for a murder he didn’t commit. From living in the community of Queens, New York, to a prison cell, Bruce’s journey is one of injustice, survival... and ultimately, a testament to the unyielding strength of the human spirit.Bruce's fight was not just for his own freedom, but for the lives of others behind bars. He amplified their voices, becoming a beacon of justice. Tune in and witness the resilience of the human spirit in the face of such adversity.

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    #90 - Mindful Money Part 2

    What does financial freedom mean after doing time? We’re back with Part Two of our powerful conversation with Joe Robinson, founder of Mindful Money, LLC — a man rewriting the rules of reentry, one dollar at a time. In this episode, you will learn why Joe decided to write his second book, The New SSI Method. The goal isn’t to be debt-free — it’s to be financially free.And Joe’s proving that freedom starts with mindset, money, and second chances.You’ll hear: What he did with his first earned dollars after releaseWhy credit scores still haunt our dreamsAnd the one habit that changed his life foreverWhether it’s cash, credit, or community, this isn’t just another story — it’s a strategy. Don’t miss Joe’s mission to build wealth after incarceration — not with handouts, but with hope, hustle, and the SSI Method.

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    # 89 - Mindful Money Part 1

    Money shapes our freedom, dignity, and opportunity, but what happens when prison shatters your entire financial world? In part one of this series, we sit down with Joe Robinson, founder of Mindful Money, LLC, who turned his own East New York–to–incarceration journey into a mission to empower justice-impacted individuals with the tools to break the cycle of survival-mode money cycles and build lasting wealth. From surviving on cents in a cell to rewriting his financial future, Joe’s story will make you rethink everything you thought you knew about money, power, and hope.

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    #88 - Jailhouse Lawyering Part 2

    In Part 2 of our Jailhouse Lawyering series, Bobby Ehrenberg and Chris Hynes return to share what truly fueled their legal advocacy from behind the walls. From navigating retaliation to building alliances with law students and public defenders, they reveal how personal conviction turns into collective action. This is a story of resistance, resilience, and redefining justice from the inside out.

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    #87 - Jailhouse Lawyering Part 1

    What happens when someone behind bars becomes the legal mind behind hundreds of successful appeals? Today, we kick off a powerful two-part series on Jailhouse Lawyering with fan favorites Bobby Ehrenberg and Chris Hynes. From Jerome Rosenberg—New York’s legendary jailhouse lawyer who overturned his own death sentence and earned three law degrees in prison—to modern-day heroes like Derrick Hamilton, we’re diving into the remarkable world of self-taught legal warriors fighting for justice from the inside out. Stay tuned—this is legal history like you've never heard it before.

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    #86 - Chris Beckhans Long Island ABATE

    Sun’s out, engines revving—Long Island’s roads are calling! But before you hit the throttle, have you ever wondered who's championing biker rights and safety in our community? Meet Chris Beckhans, President of Long Island ABATE—American Bikers for Awareness, Training, and Education. This all-volunteer powerhouse not only fights for motorcyclists' rights but also supports veterans and families in need. Tune in as we delve into the world of motorcycle advocacy, safety, and community impact. It's more than just riding; it's about making a difference on and off the road!

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    #85 - Resurrection Study Group Members Part 2

    In episode #84, Stanley Jamel Bellamy, Kenneth Inniss, and Joe Robinson helped us understand how the Resurrection Study Group rose from the ashes of injustice. Today, we take that conversation deeper—to the moments after release, to real stories of reentry, second chances, and community rebuilding.April is Second Chances Month, and there’s no better time to ask: What does freedom really look like when it’s coupled with healing, purpose, and a path forward? Let’s talk about transformation that doesn’t just reduce recidivism—it redefines redemption.” 

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    #84 - Resurrection Study Group Members Part 1

    Sometimes, the truth flips the script. I used to believe the outreach work I supported came from state programs—until 2023, when I learned the blueprint for real change was built by those behind bars. Today, we lift the veil on that truth.We’re joined by Stanley Jamel Bellamy, Kenneth Inniss, and Joe Robinson, members of the Resurrection Study Group—a movement born not in policy rooms but in prison cells. Created by visionaries like Larry White, known as the Father of the New Prison Movement, and Eddie Ellis, the group's founding architect, RSG reshapes lives through education, mentorship, and healing.What does resurrection really mean when the world has counted you out? Stick around—we’re about to explore the blueprint of rebirth, redemption, and radical transformation.

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    #83 - Andaluz The Artist

    On this episode, we're thrilled to welcome back Efren Andaluz, better known as Andaluz the Artist. Since our last chat in 2022, a lot has changed in his world. From his early days in Richmond Hill, Queens, where graffiti and hip-hop ignited his passion, to transforming T-shirts into works of art and evolving into the mural maestro he is today—Efren’s journey is nothing short of inspiring.Join us as we catch up with Efren and explore his vibrant artistic evolution, his philosophy on art and community, and how his bold murals continue to shape and uplift local culture. Please tune in for a conversation that's as colorful as his canvases and as dynamic as his creative spirit. You won't want to miss this!

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    #82 - Hudson Link For Higher Education Part 2

    In this next episode, we explore the life-changing impact of Hudson Link for Higher Education through the inspiring story of Ismael Diaz, a proud alumnus and passionate community organizer. Hear how Ismael overcame the odds behind bars, transformed his life through learning, and now champions criminal justice reform. Join us as we reveal how education opens doors, rebuilds communities, and creates a brighter future for everyone. Don't miss this unforgettable conversation!

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    #81 - Hudson Link for Higher Education Part 1

    In this episode, we are discussing how second chances spark new beginnings. Today, we're diving into the origin of Hudson Link for Higher Education—a groundbreaking program that transforms lives inside our prisons—with none other than Sean Pica, its visionary president. From a troubled teen caught in a violent moment to earning his freedom through education, Sean’s journey is a raw, riveting tale of transformation. Tune in as he shares how he turned incarceration into a mission to empower others, one degree at a time!  

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    #80 - Suffolk County GOP Chairman Jesse Garcia

    Legal Aid Radio welcomes an exceptional guest—Jesse Garcia, the dynamic force behind Suffolk County’s GOP and a true bridge-builder in our community.Jesse isn't just a political veteran—he’s a story of transformation! Jesse has redefined leadership from his early roots in Brookhaven, inspired by his father's courageous journey from Cuba to the American dream, to his unanimous election as Suffolk County GOP Chairman. In a time when our nation seems divided by partisan bickering, he’s been reconnecting Long Islanders with what really matters—community safety, affordability, and a spirit of cooperation that defies the tribalism seen elsewhere. Listen in as Jesse shares how his grassroots approach has united a diverse mix of blue-collar workers, small business owners, and educated professionals, creating a community where neighbors genuinely support one another. Discover the secrets behind his success and hear his vision for a future where Long Island stands as a shining example of unity and togetherness.This is an episode you won't want to miss—join us for an inspiring conversation that shows how, even in challenging times, leadership that listens and builds bridges can change our community for the better.  

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    #79 - Councilman Dave Bennardo

    In this episode, we're spotlighting an extraordinary leader whose career is a testament to the power of education and public service. Imagine a man who turned a high school into a family—a place where advanced programs soared nearly 300%, setting the stage for record-high diploma rates and countless scholarship awards. That man is Town of Huntington Councilman Dr. Dave Bennardo. From serving as Principal at Harborfields High School to becoming Superintendent of South Huntington School District—where he helped Walt Whitman High School earn national recognition—Dr. Bennardo has consistently pushed for excellence and transparency. Now serving on the Huntington Town Council, he champions civility and partnership in local government. Today, we dive deep into his remarkable journey and uncover how his visionary leadership is shaping a brighter future for Huntington and Suffolk County. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that proves real change is possible when you lead with your heart.

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    #78 - Stanley Jamel Bellamy Part 2

    On this episode, we delve deep into Stanley’s extraordinary journey from a troubled past to becoming a beacon of hope and leadership. Learn how a man once defined by a violent chapter has become a mentor, a community organizer, and a champion for change—proving that when you invest in redemption, recidivism becomes a thing of the past. Join us as we explore his inspiring story, the sacrifices behind his transformation, and the powerful message he now shares with his two young sons: to ‘live by the rules’ and build a better future. Stay tuned for an interview that redefines second chances.

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    #77 - Stanley Jamel Bellamy Part 1

    On this episode, Imagine being 23, caught in a moment of reckless, youthful decision—a decision that would confine you for nearly four decades. Stanley Jamel Bellamy’s past is one of tragedy and transformation. Convicted of serious crimes and sentenced to 62‑and‑a‑half to life, he spent over 37 years behind bars. But while others might have lost hope, Stanley turned incarceration into a powerful journey of redemption. During his time in prison, he earned his GED, Associate’s, and Bachelor’s degrees, led computer literacy and anti‑violence programs, and even mentored fellow inmates in entrepreneurship and conflict resolution. His remarkable transformation culminated in a historic clemency granted by Governor Kathy Hochul in December 2022—recognizing his deep remorse, unwavering rehabilitation, and steadfast commitment to improving his community.

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    #76 - Greta Guarton

    🎙️ What if just one unexpected bill could turn your life upside down? What if an emergency expense meant choosing between food, rent, or survival? The reality is—nearly half of Americans have less than $500 in savings, and for too many, that means homelessness is just one crisis away.On this episode of Legal Aid Radio, we’re tackling the urgent issue of homelessness on Long Island with the expert who knows it best—Greta Guarton, Executive Director of the Long Island Coalition for the Homeless. How did we get here? What can we do? And most importantly—how can YOU be part of the solution? Stay with us as we uncover the real stories, the real struggles, and the real solutions. Because when it comes to homelessness, awareness is just the beginning. Action is what makes the difference!  

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    #75 - Huntington Town Supervisor Ed Smyth

    🎙️ This week on Legal Aid Radio, we’re bringing you an exclusive conversation with the man shaping the future of Huntington—Town Supervisor Ed Smyth! Known for his hands-on leadership and dedication to preserving the charm of Huntington while embracing progress, Supervisor Smyth has made transparency, sustainability, and community preservation the pillars of his administration.📢 From achieving Bronze certification as a Climate Smart Community to implementing government reforms that promote accountability, Smyth has been at the forefront of ensuring a prosperous future for Huntington. But what’s next? Are we on the path to Silver and Gold certification for environmental sustainability? How does he plan to continue balancing development with quality of life, ensuring Huntington remains a desirable place to live and work?🎧 We’ll also dive into his vision for economic growth, fostering local businesses, and maintaining Huntington’s suburban character while addressing the challenges of responsible development. Plus, we’ll discuss how you—the residents—can stay engaged and have a direct impact on the town’s future!🔥 If you care about the future of Huntington, you won’t want to miss this conversation! Tune in to this episode of Legal Aid Radio to get informed, get inspired, and be part of the change!

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    #74 - Caroline Hansen

     🎙️ This week on Legal Aid Radio, we bring you a heart-wrenching yet deeply inspiring story of love, resilience, and hope. Joining us is Caroline Hansen, the devoted wife of Kristian Hansen, who has spent over two decades behind bars after being sentenced to life without parole in 1999.📢 Caroline opens up about the profound impact Kristian’s incarceration has had on their family—the emotional toll on their children, the challenges of maintaining a sense of unity, and her tireless advocacy to bring him home. Through it all, she remains steadfast in her belief in Kristian’s capacity for redemption and his commitment to family, even behind prison walls.🎧 This episode focuses on the human side of Kristian’s story: the family he’s fighting for, the love that endures despite separation, and the advocacy that highlights the power of second chances. Caroline reminds us all that the potential for transformation and healing shines through, even in the darkest places.🔥 If you believe in the power of redemption, you won’t want to miss this moving conversation. Please tune in to this episode of Legal Aid Radio and join us in exploring the strength of family, the journey of advocacy, and the hope for a brighter tomorrow.

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    #73 - Pastor Sondra Huggins

    🎙️ On this episode of Legal Aid Radio, we’re bringing you a story of resilience, faith, and transformation that you won’t want to miss. Pastor Sondra Huggins, author of the powerful memoir Beauty That Grows in the Dark, joins us to share her extraordinary journey from heartbreak to hope. 📢 In this episode, we dive into the pivotal moments of her life, including the struggles that led to her incarceration and the incredible clarity she found amidst the darkness. With raw honesty and unshakable faith, Sondra reveals how she turned her pain into a purpose, inspiring countless others to find beauty even in their toughest moments. 🎧 Sondra’s story isn’t just a testimony—it’s a call to action for anyone who feels trapped in their circumstances. We’ll discuss her groundbreaking book, the lessons she’s learned, and her mission to uplift others through her new book.🔥 If you’ve ever felt like giving up, this is the episode for you. Join us as we uncover the beauty that grows in the dark. Don’t miss it—this story could change your life!

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Our weekly radio show airs on Walk 97.5 FM and highlights the humanity of the people who make up our community. We have guests on the show to discuss the myriad complexities within the criminal justice system.Legal Aid is the primary provider of indigent defense in criminal and family courts in Suffolk County. Simply put, if someone is accused of a crime or a family offense, they are entitled to counsel, and the courts will assign counsel if they do not have the wherewithal to afford a lawyer. We also provide support services for our clients in need of addiction intervention, housing, or mental health referrals.

HOSTED BY

Debra Sterling Walters

Produced by Legal Aid Society of Suffolk County, Inc.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Legal Aid Radio have?

Legal Aid Radio currently has 50 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Legal Aid Radio about?

Our weekly radio show airs on Walk 97.5 FM and highlights the humanity of the people who make up our community. We have guests on the show to discuss the myriad complexities within the criminal justice system.Legal Aid is the primary provider of indigent defense in criminal and family courts in...

How often does Legal Aid Radio release new episodes?

Legal Aid Radio has 50 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to Legal Aid Radio?

You can listen to Legal Aid Radio on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Legal Aid Radio?

Legal Aid Radio is created and hosted by Debra Sterling Walters.
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