Prison to Purpose

In this episode, we shine a light on CALCTRA's Optical Program—an initiative that trains incarcerated individuals in prescription eyewear manufacturing—and the remarkable journey of Robert Castaneda. Once incarcerated, Robert found purpose and a new path through the program, gaining skills that helped him build a successful career as an Optician after release. Tune in to hear how vision, both literal and personal, can lead to transformation and second chances. 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=I8DkybBxDj0 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dHKNcaJ21Cc https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kbv2YTmEJUo

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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