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Rashmi Airan had it all—an Ivy League education, a successful law career, and a bright future.Then everything changed.After becoming entangled in a mortgage fraud scheme during the housing boom, Rashmi faced federal prosecution, prison, and the public collapse of the life she had spent decades building.But prison did not become her ending.Today, Rashmi is a globally recognized keynote speaker who has spoken for companies including Coca-Cola, Deloitte, Merck, Comcast, Caesars Entertainment, Hershey's, and GE Healthcare. Through her Rise Through It® framework and her new book ALL RISE, she helps leaders transform adversity into courage, accountability, and growth.In this unforgettable conversation with Brent Cassity, Rashmi shares her journey from ambition and success to failure, prison, and ultimately purpose.This is a story of owning your mistakes, rebuilding trust, and discovering that your worst moment does not have to define your future.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected at prisonist.org. Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount Visit Discoverability.co. Auto Plaza Direct "Your personal car concierge!" Let them handle every detail to find your perfect car autoplazadirect.com. Author Saffron Gustafson www.mynameissaffron.com, "My Name is Saffron." Author Nevin Shetty, "Second Chance Economics: How Hiring The Formerly Incarcerated Can Unlock $1 Trillion in GDP." www.secondchanceeconomics.com
Scott Maddox spent decades at the center of Florida politics.He served as Mayor of Tallahassee, chaired the Florida Democratic Party, and ran statewide campaigns for Attorney General and Governor. He was widely viewed as one of Florida's rising political stars.Then came the federal investigation, public scandal, conviction, and prison sentence that changed everything.In this candid conversation, Scott joins Brent Cassity to discuss the pressures of politics, the realities of federal prosecution, surviving a public downfall, life inside federal prison, and the difficult road to rebuilding after losing power, reputation, and freedom.This episode is ultimately about resilience, accountability, and discovering who you are when the titles, status, and influence are stripped away.If you've ever faced failure, public criticism, or a life-changing setback, Scott's story offers a powerful perspective on surviving the fall and finding purpose on the other side.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected at prisonist.org. Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount Visit Discoverability.co. Auto Plaza Direct "Your personal car concierge!" Let them handle every detail to find your perfect car autoplazadirect.com. Author Saffron Gustafson www.mynameissaffron.com, "My Name is Saffron." Author Nevin Shetty, "Second Chance Economics: How Hiring The Formerly Incarcerated Can Unlock $1 Trillion in GDP." www.secondchanceeconomics.com
In this powerful episode of Nightmare Success In and Out, host Brent Cassity sits down with Desmond Meade, one of the most influential voices in criminal justice reform and voting rights advocacy.Before becoming a Time 100 Honoree, MacArthur Genius Grant recipient, Nobel Peace Prize Nominee, and national leader, Desmond was homeless, addicted, justice-impacted, and standing on railroad tracks contemplating ending his life with a train that never came.Then everything changed.Desmond shares his remarkable journey from prison and addiction to helping restore voting rights for more than 1.4 million Americans. He discusses overcoming despair, surviving incarceration, finding purpose through service, attending law school, and transforming personal pain into a movement that changed lives across the country.This conversation is about redemption, resilience, second chances, faith, recovery, and discovering purpose after losing everything.If you've ever felt defeated, hopeless, or written off by society, this episode will remind you that your story is not over.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected at prisonist.org. Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount Visit Discoverability.co. Auto Plaza Direct "Your personal car concierge!" Let them handle every detail to find your perfect car autoplazadirect.com. Author Saffron Gustafson, "My Name is Saffron." Author Nevin Shetty, "Second Chance Economics: How Hiring The Formerly Incarcerated Can Unlock $1 Trillion in GDP." www.secondchanceeconomics.com
On this episode of Nightmare Success In and Out, host Brent Cassity sits down with justice-impacted author Kalise White, whose powerful journey from trauma and silence to healing and purpose is inspiring people everywhere.Kalise opens up about the pain, labels, and emotional battles she faced after her life changed forever—and how she rebuilt herself piece by piece instead of allowing her past to define her future.Author of the books You Left Me, God Blessed Me and No Longer Silenced, Kalise shares raw truths about survival, identity, trauma, faith, and reclaiming your voice after everything falls apart.This is a story about redemption, resilience, healing, and refusing to stay broken.If you've ever faced shame, setbacks, judgment, incarceration, or the feeling that life knocked you down too hard… this episode is for you.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected at prisonist.org. Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount Visit Discoverability.co. Auto Plaza Direct "Your personal car concierge!" Let them handle every detail to find your perfect car autoplazadirect.com. Author Saffron Gustafson, "My Name is Saffron." Author Nevin Shetty, "Second Chance Economics: How Hiring The Formerly Incarcerated Can Unlock $1 Trillion in GDP." www.secondchanceeconomics.com
What happens when the “golden boy” becomes national headlines overnight?On this episode of Nightmare Success In and Out, host Brent Cassity sits down with former Georgetown University tennis coach Gordie Ernst for one of the most honest conversations yet about the infamous Varsity Blues Scandal.Gordie opens up about growing up as Rhode Island's “golden boy,” becoming a respected college coach, working with the Barack Obama family, and how his life exploded after the college admissions scandal became national news.This is more than a story about indictment and prison. It's about identity, shame, family, survival, rebuilding, and finding purpose after public failure.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected at prisonist.org. Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount Visit Discoverability.co. Auto Plaza Direct "Your personal car concierge!" Let them handle every detail to find your perfect car autoplazadirect.com. Author Saffron Gustafson, "My Name is Saffron." Author Nevin Shetty, "Second Chance Economics: How Hiring The Formerly Incarcerated Can Unlock $1 Trillion in GDP." www.secondchanceeconomics.com
What happens when everything you built comes crashing down?On this episode of Nightmare Success In and Out, host Brent Cassity sits down with Michael Castillero, co-founder of StraightPath Venture Partners, a pre-IPO investment firm that exploded into the world of private investing before becoming the target of a massive federal prosecution. Michael shares his side of the story for the first time in depth — from immigrating from Panama and building a Wall Street career… to launching a booming pre-IPO investment company handling hundreds of millions of dollars… to being convicted in federal court and awaiting sentencing. This is a raw conversation about:Federal prosecutionWall Street ambitionAsset seizuresTrial strategyFamily pressurePublic humiliationFighting the U.S. governmentRedemption and survivalMichael discusses the rise of StraightPath Venture Partners, the government's allegations, the emotional toll on his wife and children, and why he believes he was targeted and misunderstood. Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected at prisonist.org. Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount Visit Discoverability.co. Auto Plaza Direct "Your personal car concierge!" Let them handle every detail to find your perfect car autoplazadirect.com. Author Saffron Gustafson, "My Name is Saffron." Author Nevin Shetty, "Second Chance Economics: How Hiring The Formerly Incarcerated Can Unlock $1 Trillion in GDP." www.secondchanceeconomics.com
What happens when innovation collides with power?On this episode of Nightmare Success In and Out, Brent Cassity sits down with entrepreneur Steve Keller, a man who built a multi-billion-dollar empire by revolutionizing the life settlement industry—only to watch it all unravel. Author of the new book "Pay to Play."From launching securitized life insurance bundles on Wall Street to controlling 65% of the global life settlement market, Keller was at the top. His company, Kelco, helped terminally ill patients access money when they needed it most.But success brought attention… and enemies.After disrupting the insurance industry, Keller found himself: Indicted by the federal government. Branded a fugitive. Sentenced to 14 years in federal prison.This is a story of ambition, innovation, power, and survival—and what happens when the system turns against you.
What happens when addiction leads you to federal prison—but doesn't break you?In this episode of Nightmare Success In and Out, Brent Cassity talks with PJ Jensen, host of the LFG Life Podcast, about his journey through addiction, prison, and rebuilding his life with discipline and accountability.PJ shares how prison changed his mindset, how he built a multi-million-dollar business after release, and the moment an intervention forced him to finally confront his addiction.This is a powerful conversation about ownership, recovery, and what it really takes to create lasting change.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected at prisonist.org. Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount Visit Discoverability.co. Auto Plaza Direct "Your personal car concierge!" Let them handle every detail to find your perfect car autoplazadirect.com. Author Saffron Gustafson, "My Name is Saffron." Author Nevin Shetty, "Second Chance Economics: How Hiring The Formerly Incarcerated Can Unlock $1 Trillion in GDP." www.secondchanceeconomics.com
What happens when ambition—something we're taught to chase our entire lives—becomes the very thing that leads to our downfall?In this powerful episode of Nightmare Success In and Out, Brent Cassity sits down with Juliet Jacobs, author of Ambition Addiction, a justice-impacted survivor, and a mental health professional with over 30 years of experience.Juliet shares her deeply personal journey—from a childhood rooted in high expectations and success-driven culture… to building a career helping others… to ultimately crossing a line that led to federal prison.Together, they unpack the hidden dangers of ambition when it becomes compulsive, the emotional roots behind addiction, and how even the most driven individuals can lose themselves in the pursuit of success.This episode dives into:The difference between healthy ambition and addictionHow cultural and family expectations shape identityThe psychology behind overachievement and controlWhat happens when your moral compass starts to shiftLife inside prison and the journey of rebuilding after releaseJuliet's story is raw, honest, and deeply relatable—not just for those impacted by the justice system, but for anyone who has ever felt the pressure to succeed at all costs.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected at prisonist.org. Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount Visit Discoverability.co. Auto Plaza Direct "Your personal car concierge!" Let them handle every detail to find your perfect car autoplazadirect.com. Author Saffron Gustafson, "My Name is Saffron." Author Nevin Shetty, "Second Chance Economics: How Hiring The Formerly Incarcerated Can Unlock $1 Trillion in GDP." www.secondchanceeconomics.com
What happens when your worst fear becomes your reality? On this episode of Nightmare Success In and Out, Brent Cassity sits down with Dr. Ron Elfenbein — a board-certified emergency room physician trained at Johns Hopkins who stepped up when the world shut down. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Ron didn't wait. He acted. He built testing sites before most believed the virus would spread. He treated thousands of patients. He donated critical supplies across multiple states. He became a trusted voice on the frontlines when fear and uncertainty were everywhere. Then, without warning… everything changed. Federal charges. A criminal trial. His reputation, career, and freedom all on the line. But just when it looked like his nightmare was over, a federal judge issued a stunning decision — wiping away the conviction in a rare and powerful ruling 93 page opinion. And still… the fight isn't over. The DOJ won an appeal overturning the the Chief Judge's acquittal. This is a story about courage under pressure, standing up for what you believe is right, and navigating a system that can turn on you overnight. It's about resilience. It's about truth. And it's about what it really takes to survive — and keep fighting — when your nightmare isn't finished yet
What happens after prison? For most people, that's where the real struggle begins.In this episode of Nightmare Success In and Out, Brent Cassity sits down with Doug Feller—an entrepreneur who went from building businesses and living fast… to facing federal charges, prison time, and starting over from nothing.Doug shares the truth about reentry that nobody talks about:
What happens when your worst fear becomes your reality… and you come back determined to rebuild the very system that once held you?In this powerful episode of Nightmare Success In and Out, Brent Cassity sits down with Kerwin Pittman, a nationally recognized recidivism reduction expert, founder and executive director of Recidivism Reduction Educational Program Services, and the first formerly incarcerated person in U.S. history to purchase a decommissioned prison.Kerwin shares his journey from growing up in poverty and violence, to gang involvement, prison time, solitary confinement, and ultimately a complete transformation from the inside out. He opens up about the moment that changed everything, how he educated himself while incarcerated, and how he came home with a mission to create real second-chance infrastructure.Now, Kerwin is turning a former prison into a recidivism reduction campus focused on workforce development, behavioral health, education, housing support, and opportunity for justice-impacted people.This is a story about redemption, purpose, and what it really means to keep the main thing the main thing.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
What happens when your worst fear becomes your reality… and you turn it into art?On this episode of Nightmare Success In and Out, host Brent Cassity sits down with musician Jason Pears, known artistically as Jason Made, whose life took an unexpected turn when a PPP fraud case led to a 30-month federal prison sentence.Raised in Fairhope, Alabama, Jason's life had always been intertwined with music—from teaching himself piano in church as a child to writing songs in Nashville and Los Angeles. But financial pressures, entrepreneurship, and a pandemic-era business decision eventually led him into the federal justice system.What happened next is the heart of this story.Inside Federal Prison Camp Pensacola, Jason found an unlikely refuge: a chapel piano and a spiral notebook. Over the course of his sentence, he wrote more than 40 original songs, turning isolation, uncertainty, and reflection into deeply personal music. Jason Made's music can be heard on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/artist/6YIPePfcIWGBLFqICgmHYvIn this powerful conversation, Brent and Jason discuss:The moment the FBI showed up at his doorNavigating the psychological toll of waiting for sentencingLife inside federal prisonFinding purpose in unexpected placesHow music became his path to redemptionThe creation of his debut EP “Go Lay Down”Jason's story is a reminder that sometimes your purpose finds you—even in the darkest places.And sometimes, a nightmare becomes the soundtrack to a brand-new life.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
In this gripping episode of Nightmare Success In and Out, Brent Cassity sits down with Ryan Bloom to tell one of the most shocking stories ever featured on the show. Ryan shares how his life was turned upside down by a gunpoint FBI arrest in his front yard, an 18-month federal ordeal, and a legal fight that threatened to destroy everything he had built.But this story takes a turn almost nobody ever sees. After relentless research, the right legal team, and the courage to fight back, all charges against Ryan were dismissed. This is a powerful conversation about fear, family, resilience, justice, and what it takes to stand your ground when the full weight of the government is pressing down on you.This episode is for anyone facing adversity, navigating the criminal justice system, or looking for proof that persistence and courage still matter.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
What happens when your worst fear becomes your reality—and it lasts 21 years?In this unforgettable episode of Nightmare Success In and Out, host Brent Cassity interviews Sibil “Fox” Richardson and Robert “Rob” Richardson, the New Orleans couple featured in the award-winning documentary ** TIME **. Fox and Rob share the true story of surviving as an incarcerated family—raising six sons, enduring separation, and navigating the Louisiana justice system after Rob received a 61-year sentence and was sent to Angola Prison.They break down what the documentary couldn't fully show: the pressure on marriage, the emotional cost on children, the grit required to keep hope alive, and the legal fight that ultimately led to freedom. Today, Fox and Rob continue their mission through Participatory Defense Movement NOLA (an initiative of Rich Family Ministries)—training families to become powerful advocates and helping save years of incarceration by organizing community-based defense.If you've ever wondered how families survive prison, how clemency happens, or what real redemption looks like—this episode is for you.
Jonathan Schwartz was Hollywood's go-to financial manager—nicknamed the “Diva Whisperer”—trusted by some of the biggest names in entertainment, including Beyoncé, Mariah Carey, and Alanis Morissette. But behind the scenes, Jonathan was fighting a brutal cocaine and gambling addiction that spiraled into embezzling millions from celebrity clients and ultimately led to a six-year prison sentence.In this raw conversation with host Brent Cassity, Jonathan breaks down the roots of addiction, the moment everything collapsed, what prison taught him about accountability and consequences, and how recovery rebuilt his life. Now approaching 10 years sober, Jonathan serves as a Program Director at Altus Rehab, helping others fight the demons that nearly destroyed him. This is a powerful story about secrecy, shame, responsibility—and redemption one day at a time.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
Filmmaker and producer John Santilli joins Brent Cassity to share a story that goes way beyond Hollywood credits. From working on projects tied to major studio releases to building his career through grit and relationships, John seemed to be living the dream—until a complex business deal spiraled into a federal securities fraud case, a public arrest, and years of legal chaos.In this raw conversation, John walks through what it felt like to watch his reputation collapse, how fear and isolation hit his family, and what it took to survive the mental grind of being overcharged, misunderstood, and pressured into plea deals. He opens up about the raid on his home, the harsh realities of the system, and the rare moment that changed everything: a judge who actually looked at him like a human being.This is a nightmare-to-meaning comeback story about accountability, perspective, resilience, and rebuilding a life—one piece at a time.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
Former undefeated boxing star Charles Duke Tanner went from ESPN and Angelo Dundee's gym to two life sentences in federal prison for a first-time, nonviolent drug conspiracy. Sixteen years later, he walked out of prison with a presidential clemency in 2020 and a full pardon in 2025. In this powerful episode of Nightmare Success In and Out, Brent Cassity sits down with Duke to unpack a story that feels like a movie script—but it's all real.Duke shares what it was like growing up in Gary, Indiana during the crack epidemic, becoming a rising boxing phenom, and how money pressures pulled him into a drug conspiracy that changed his life. He talks about hearing the words “two life sentences” in federal court, walking into a maximum-security prison at 24, and the mindset it took to keep hope alive when the system said he would die behind bars.Inside, Duke became a leader—mentoring men, strengthening his faith, and being a present father to his son through letters, calls, and visits. He describes the moment he learned President Trump had granted him clemency, what it felt like to hug his son at the airport for the first time as a free man, and how he's now using his second chance to fight for others.Today, Duke is co-building Legacy Impact Group with Adam Clausen, serving as VP of Community Affairs for Engineered Tax Services non-profit group, helping justice-impacted entrepreneurs and nonprofits get grant ready, and advocating for the Safer Supervision Act and real second chances. Grab Duke's book “Duke Got Life” on Amazon — this story needs to be in your hands.If you've ever wondered how someone can lose everything, hold onto hope, and come back with purpose—this conversation will stay with you.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
At 21, Yusef Andre Wiley was sentenced to life in a California prison after growing up in the gang-ridden streets of South Central Los Angeles. After surviving violence, a year in solitary, and a near-fatal run-in with a tower guard, a single letter from his father sparked a complete 180° turn.In this episode of Nightmare Success In and Out, Brent Cassity and Yusef walk through the journey from life sentence to reentry leader, creating self-help programs inside prison and later founding Timelist Group, a reentry and housing nonprofit helping formerly incarcerated people with jobs, housing, education, and community. He is the author of the book "If I Knew Then."If you've ever wondered whether real change is possible after a long sentence, this conversation is a masterclass in hope, responsibility, and total commitment to change.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
What happens when your worst fear becomes your reality… and somehow becomes the launchpad for a popcorn empire?In this powerful episode of Nightmare Success In and Out, Brent Cassity sits down with Emily O'Brien, founder of Comeback Snacks, to unpack how a honors grad from Canada went from international development and corporate sales… to being groomed by a boyfriend, caught smuggling cocaine back from St. Lucia, and sentenced to four years in a Canadian prison.Emily shares the raw details of how quickly life can spin out of control, what it was like to be arrested at the airport, face her family in shackles, and navigate the Canadian prison system. She opens up about addiction, bad decisions, shame, and the brutal uncertainty of house arrest and sentencing.But this isn't just a story about a fall — it's about a comeback. Inside prison, Emily started experimenting with popcorn recipes, listening to other women's stories, and dreaming up a brand that would stand for second chances. That prison-born idea became Comeback Snacks — a popcorn company that now sells in over 1,200 retail stores, hires formerly incarcerated people, and uses bold flavors to spark conversations about redemption and prison reform.From building a business out of a halfway house kitchen to speaking on stages, producing documentaries, and becoming a voice for fair-chance hiring, Emily proves that mistakes are universal — and so are comebacks. If you've ever wondered whether your worst decisions have to define you, this episode will hit home.Listen in as Brent and Emily talk prison, purpose, entrepreneurship, Comeback Snacks, and what it really takes to rebuild your life after a conviction.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
What happens when your worst fear becomes your reality—and you decide to ask, “Why not?” instead of “Why me?”In this episode of Nightmare Success In and Out, host Brent Cassity sits down with Rusty (Rustin D.) Pangburn—author of Mindset Matters, founder of Why Not Mindset, motivational speaker, and CDL truck driver—to unpack a remarkable second-chance story. Rusty went from running the streets to serving a 60-month federal sentence, from 480+ lbs to 189 lbs, and from “inmate number” to mentor, author, and nonprofit leader helping justice-impacted people reenter with confidence.We dig into:The “Why Not” question that rewired Rusty's life and inspired his book & nonprofitHow he used walking, running, and routine to lose 300+ lbs insideRDAP, mindset shifts, and preparing for life after the gateFinding a career path in trucking (CDL) and building a future with his wife as team driversWriting Mindset Matters and the “Ripple Effect” chapter—why small actions change livesCreating an AI-produced song to capture his story and missionIf you're looking for hope, practical reentry insight, and proof that mindset matters, this one's for you.
Coach Kristin Kline (“Zero Excuses”) turned a prison-yard workout into Convicted Comeback—a movement rebuilding women through fitness, mindset, and real credentials. Brent Cassity interviews Kristin Kline on the Nightmare Success In and Out Podcast. She opens up about childhood trauma, addiction, an armed-robbery charge, and the counselor who told her, “You're not a gangster,” sparking a total reset. We get into how mindset is a muscle, the 60-day bootcamps that started on the yard, printing certificates inside, navigating reentry fear, and partnering with ISSA so people inside can earn trainer certifications that matter on the outside. Raw, hopeful, and packed with action for anyone fighting for a second chance.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
What happens when you refuse to take a plea deal and the full weight of the federal system lands on you?In this explosive episode, Brent Cassity talks with Freya Pearson, whose story takes you from the world of real estate and a lottery client… to a shocking trial, 60-month sentence, and a prison system full of corruption and retaliation.Freya opens up about:Being indicted and going to trial against federal prosecutorsCorruption in the justice system and failures of defenseSurviving Alderson and Aliceville federal prisonsWriting up staff, exposing abuse, and surviving whatever came her wayComing home to rebuild her life as a paralegal and future attorneyThis is a raw, unfiltered story of resilience, accountability, and the power of standing up for yourself when everyone tells you to give up.
Brent Cassity interviews Topeka Sam on the Nightmare Success Podcast, a true impact leader with an inspiring comeback story. Topeka K. Sam is a nationally recognized leader in criminal justice reform, dedicated to transforming the lives of women and girls impacted by incarceration. After serving time in federal prison herself, Topeka emerged as a powerful voice for change. She is the founder and Executive Director of The Ladies of Hope Ministries (The LOHM), an organization that provides housing, reentry support, and advocacy for formerly incarcerated women.Her story and mission have been featured by major outlets including The Today Show, CNN, The Tamron Hall Show, and The New York Times. Topeka has advised policymakers, including speaking at the White House and testifying before Congress, to advance legislation on prison reform and second chances. Topeka received a Presidential Pardon by President Trump on December 23, 2020.Passionate, fearless, and inspiring, Topeka Sam represents resilience and purpose-driven leadership. Through her advocacy, she challenges the stigma of incarceration and builds pathways of hope, dignity, and opportunity for women returning home. Topeka also does film work highlighting people who need to be released from prison. One of these films featured Alice Johnson that caught the attention of Kim Kardashian. Kim and Topeka teamed up and got President Trump to Pardon Ms. Johnson. Alice Johnson now serves as the Pardon Czar in the Trump Administration.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
What happens when your son builds one of the largest crypto empires in history—and then it all comes crashing down?On this episode of Nightmare Success In and Out, Brent Cassity sits down with Joe Bankman, Stanford law professor and father of Sam Bankman-Fried, the convicted founder of FTX. In a candid and emotional conversation, Joe shares what it was like to watch the meteoric rise of FTX, the devastating collapse, and the personal toll it has taken on his family.This is not just a story about crypto or courtroom drama—it's about fatherhood, resilience, and what it means to survive when your worst nightmare becomes your reality. Joe opens up about the weight of public scrutiny, the heartbreak of watching his son fall, and how he and his family are finding a path forward in the shadow of a global scandal.If you've ever wondered how families endure when the spotlight turns harsh, this episode is one you won't forget.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
In this episode of Nightmare Success, Brent Cassity interviews Lawrence Blackmon, a defense attorney and state representative from Mississippi. He is the founder and CEO of Legal Ease. They discuss overcoming the impact of past mistakes, and the importance of expungement in helping individuals reintegrate into society. Blackmon shares his personal journey, including an unexpected arrest during college and how it led him to create Expungement AI, a platform designed to assist individuals in clearing their criminal records. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by those with criminal records, the need for reform in the criminal justice system, and the role of mental health in these discussions. Blackmon emphasizes the importance of empowering individuals through technology and offers advice for those looking to advocate for change in the system. Go to legalease.com to get started with setting yourself free with an expungement.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
In this episode of Nightmare Success, host Brent Cassity interviews Joseph De Gregorio, a former Wall Street trader who faced a life-altering journey through a liver transplant, Federal prison time, and ultimately, redemption. Joseph is lucky to be alive after receiving a liver transplant that had Covid. He was finally released from the hospital ICU after months, and 2 days later he is contacted by the SEC about an investigation that ends up becoming criminal. Joseph shares his experiences of navigating the complexities of the federal justice system, the importance of mitigation strategies, and the lessons learned from his time in prison. He emphasizes the power of personal responsibility, the significance of storytelling in every circumstance, and his commitment to helping others facing similar challenges with his company JN Advisor. jnadvisor.comShow sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
In this episode of the Nightmare Success podcast, Brent Cassity, Jeff Grant, and Drew Chapin discuss the challenges faced by individuals with federal convictions, the importance of community support, and the need for federal expungement laws. Jeff Grant, co-founder of the White Collar Support group, returned home from prison, became an ordained minister, and recently received his law license back to be a practicing attorney. Drew Chapin has been out of prison for 2 1/2 years and has not stopped as the founder of the Discoverability Company that helps people with their online footprint. He has also been a speaker at Yale and other universities. Together, they share personal stories of redemption and the impact of reentry on their lives, emphasizing the significance of advocacy for justice reform and the role of community in overcoming barriers. The conversation highlights the ongoing efforts with the federal expungement initiative to become a federal statute, and always the hope for a more compassionate criminal justice system. The Group discusses the impact the White Collar Support Group, that meets every Monday night at 7pmEST on zoom, provides to justice impacted white collar individuals who are seeking their community to seek support and shared experiences. Jeff shared the information of the upcoming White Collar Conference Saturday October 11th at 9am EST. Keynote Speaker CNN Commentator and Author Jeffrey Toobin: Author of the Book "The Pardon", Brent Cassity Interview of Joe Bankman (Sam Bankman Fried's father) Pardon & Expungement Panel with Prof. Mark Osler, Prof. Doug Berman, Prof.Todd HaughProf. Erin Frey Presents Yale Research Study on Second Chances for PeopleConvicted of White Collar CrimesRestoring Our Dignity Panel with Pamela Winn, Gina Pendergraph, Michael GainesEmcee: Craig StanlandHost: Jeff Grant, Co-host: Drew Chapinto register go to whitecollarconference.comto support the federal expungement initiative go to the federalexpungementinitiative.org go to prisonist.org for information about the white collar support groupShow sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
In this powerful episode of Nightmare Success In and Out, host Brent Cassity sits down with Eddie B. Ellis Jr., returning citizen, author, and advocate to unpack his personal journey from teenage conviction to lifelong activism. Arrested at age 16 and sentenced to decades in the criminal legal system, Eddie reflects on the transformative path of reentry, the perseverance it took to reclaim his voice, and the ways language and labeling shape not only identity, but opportunity. He shares firsthand what it means to rebuild, the gaps in the system he's worked to repair—especially around solitary confinement, sentencing of youth, and supports for people coming home—and the hope he holds for social change. Listeners will walk away not just inspired by Eddie's survival, but challenged to rethink how we see “success,” justice, and redemption.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
In this episode of the Nightmare Success podcast, host Brent Cassity interviews Scott Rosenblum, a renowned criminal defense attorney with over 42 years of experience with over 450 jury trials. Scott is the President and principal founding member of the Rosenblum, Schwartz, Fry, and Johnson. He is has been compared to the Michael Jordon of the courtroom by Marshall Faulk, on the best running backs in NFL history. They discuss Scott's journey into law, the intricacies of the criminal justice system, and the emotional toll of representing clients. Scott shares insights on the importance of understanding the client-lawyer relationship, the challenges of the federal system, and the need for reform in prosecutorial discretion, and other fixes that are needed in our criminal justice system. The conversation highlights the profound impact that legal outcomes have on individuals' lives and the responsibility lawyers have in navigating these complex situations.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
In this episode of Nightmare Success, host Brent Cassity speaks with Kristen Johnson, who shares her powerful journey from addiction and incarceration to recovery and community service. Kristen discusses her supportive family, the challenges she faced, and how she turned her life around by helping others. Kristen discusses her initiative, The Light Newsletter, aimed at providing hope to those incarcerated, and she emphasizes the significance of reentry programs and community connections. Kristen shines a light on overcoming shame and finding purpose through being of service to others. Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
One night everything in Walter Dunn's life changed. In this episode of Nightmare Success, host Brent Cassity interviews Walter Dunn, a man who was wrongfully convicted and spent 13 years in prison. He went to work on his case in the prison law library, and one doctors testimony to the evidence finally set him free. Walter shares his harrowing journey from being a devoted father and community member to facing the nightmare of incarceration. He discusses the challenges of navigating the criminal justice system, the importance of resilience, and how he transformed his experience into a mission to help others. Walter is now an author of the book, Through Innocent Eyes, and a criminal justice speaker to inspire positive change. Walter's story is one of hope, redemption, and the relentless pursuit of justice, emphasizing the need for reform in the legal system and the power of personal growth.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
In this raw and powerful episode of Nightmare Success In and Out, host Brent Cassity interviews Saffron Gustafson, who shares her harrowing journey from a successful business owner of medical clinics to facing federal charges after an FBI raid on her medical business. Eventually she is sentenced to 22 months in prison at the Dublin prison that was eventually shutdown for sexual abuse of women. Saffron Gustafson's story is one of resilience, survival, and reclaiming her voice after years of silence. As the author of My Name Is Saffron: Voices Silenced, Stifled, and Taken Away, she opens up about the struggles that shaped her journey, the systems and circumstances that tried to erase her identity, and the strength it took to fight back. We explore how trauma, injustice, and isolation can strip someone of their voice—and how reclaiming it becomes the ultimate act of freedom. Together, they dive into themes of survival, courage, and the universal search for dignity when the world seems determined to keep you down. This conversation will challenge, inspire, and remind us that it is shocking what someone can adapt to at rock bottom. Saffron reminds us that you have a choice with how you handle your nightmare.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
In this episode of Nightmare Success, Brent Cassity interviews Dr. Muhamad Ali Rifai, who shares his incredible journey from surviving a war-torn childhood in Syria to facing a federal investigation in the United States. Dr. Rafi survived machine gun fire as a child. He escaped thyroid cancer and a car crash that should have killed him, but nothing prepared him for going to trial with the United States Government. The Doctor discusses his experiences with raw authenticity, the challenges of navigating the legal system, and the importance of telemedicine. Dr. Rifai, who is both an internist and psychiatrist, was a pioneer of telemedicine. He emphasizes the need for professionals to understand the complexities of the law and shares insights from his own trial, where he was ultimately acquitted of all charges. His big "tip" is do not talk to the investigators, they are professionals. Let your attorney handle all communications. The conversation highlights the power of staying true to your beliefs and the importance of supporting others in similar situations. Dr. Rifai is the author of the book Doctor Not Guilty, and he is the founder of SHIELD that helps professionals through the complicated process of being indicted. Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
What makes someone go from "I can't" to "I can" mindset. Pamela Winn's mindset change came from having a conversation with a friend after returning home from a 78 month Federal Prison Sentence. Pamela Winn earned a scholarship to college and later became a registered nurse before her world came crashing down with a charge of mortgage fraud. She had a miscarriage in custody being shackled with a hard fall. Her journey is one of courage, advocacy, and unshakable resolve. After experiencing firsthand the devastating gaps in our criminal justice system, Pamela turned her pain into purpose, founding RestoreHER, a policy and advocacy organization dedicated to ending the mass incarceration of women and addressing the unique challenges justice-impacted women face. Honored with numerous awards for her leadership, including The Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award in 2023, Forbes 50 Over 50 Impact List, and PBS Short Film Festival Winner "Winn Movie" to name a few. Pamela has become a powerful national voice for dignity, health, and human rights. She added language for women incarcerated in the the First Step Act.In this episode of Nightmare Success In and Out, Brent Cassity sits down with Pamela to explore her personal story, the systemic barriers she's fighting to dismantle, and the hope she's building for women across the country. Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
Brandon James walked out of prison over 6 years ago, and has created one of the biggest roofing companies in the state of Missouri. Brandon was stuck at rock bottom who attempted to take his life a few weeks out of prison. This is an incredible redemption comeback story. He says you cannot be a victim and victor at the same time. Brandon became intentional about what he wanted in life. He wrote it down and asked for help. He is now the founder of Brandon J Roofing of one of the fastest growing roofing companies doing over $60 million a year annually. In this episode of Nightmare Success In and Out, Brent Cassity interviews Brandon James, who shares his incredible journey from a troubled childhood and a 10 year incarceration to becoming a successful entrepreneur, podcast host of WIT "Whatever It Takes", and a motivational speaker. The discussion delves into themes of overcoming fears, the impact of early life experiences, the challenges of re-entering society after prison, and the importance of sharing one's story. Brandon is constantly seeking advice from mentors, coaches, and studying the people who have been a success. This episode is full of life lessons of how to get unstuck and act on your purpose.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
In this powerful and revealing episode of Nightmare Success In and Out, Brent Cassity sits down with former Illinois Judge Jessica O'Brien—the first Filipino-American elected to the bench in Cook County—who went from a respected courtroom authority to a federal inmate. Jessica opens up about her stunning journey through the justice system:the decision to go to trial that led to a conviction for mortgage fraud, the surreal experience of trading her judge robe for a prison uniform, and how she rebuilt her identity from the inside out. With raw honesty, she reflects on the shame, isolation, and loss of purpose she faced, and how she found resilience and redemption in the most unlikely place. Now an advocate for second chances and systemic reform, Jessica shares how her experience has reshaped her understanding of justice—and her mission moving forward. She is still diligently fighting to overturn her conviction. This is a conversation about resilience , surviving, and the courage to rewrite your story. A must-listen for anyone who believes that rock bottom can be the beginning of something new.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
In this episode of Nightmare Success, Brent Cassity interviews Donald Hinton, who shares his inspiring journey from a troubled childhood to overcoming significant challenges in prison and ultimately finding success in real estate. Donald discusses the impact of his father's incarceration on his life, and the turning point that led him to change his life while in prison. His son came to visit him in the exact same prison visiting room Donald had visited his own dad. He committed he was going to break the cycle. He emphasizes the importance of planning for life after incarceration, the challenges he faced, and how he now helps others by providing housing and mentorship. Donald's story is a testament to resilience, personal growth, and the power of second chances. Check out his book on Amazon: From Prison to Properties.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
Do you remember the sport story that captivated the nation about LA Dodgers Shohei Ohtani who's business manager and interpreter was illegally gambling millions of Ohtani's money? In this episode of the Nightmare Success podcast, host Brent Cassity interviews Mathew Bowyer, who was the bookie who ran the largest exclusive illegal sports book in the nation to the rich and famous. Matt shares his journey from a challenging childhood marked by family struggles and a gambling addiction to creating the largest illegal sports betting business in the nation. Matthew was indicted last year and decided to take a path that almost no one takes while under indictment. He decided to start an Instagram account for people to follow his story while he is living through a personal storm. The Instagram @mathewbowyer5 account now has over 85,000 followers in six months. Is this a new way to handle an indictment crisis? He is definitely showing resilience and courage. His sentencing is October of 2025. The conversation delves into themes of resilience, personal growth, and owning your story. He discusses the moral dilemmas he faced in commodity trading, the thrill and addiction of gambling, and the consequences of his choices, including the FBI raid with his son in the car that changed his life. Mathew reflects on the emptiness that accompanied his financial success and the importance of recalibrating his life moving forward. He shares the challenges of facing public scrutiny and the decision to share his story through social media and a forthcoming book Recalibrated and a documentary. His experiences serve as a reminder that while life can be challenging, it is possible to emerge stronger and help others along the way. When he has this crisis behind him, he plans to mentor major league baseball players and NFL players how to avoid the addiction of gambling that created his nightmare.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
In this episode of Nightmare Success, host Brent Cassity speaks with Tanya Pierce, who shares her harrowing journey from a successful real estate career to facing federal indictment and imprisonment. Tanya discusses her early life, the shock of her indictment, the challenges of her trial, and the emotional turmoil of receiving a guilty verdict. She reflects on her experiences in federal prison and the lessons learned about resilience and personal growth. In this conversation, Tanya Pierce shares her transformative journey through prison and reentry, highlighting her adaptation to life in prison, the challenges of reentry, and her advocacy for restitution reform. She discusses her emotional toll of watching life go on outside while incarcerated. Tanya also emphasizes the need for community support and the creation of her nonprofit, Life Unbolted, aimed at helping those impacted by federal convictions. Tanya is now a first year law school student who's journey is driven by a desire to address injustices in the restitution system, advocating for policy changes in the criminal legal system. Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
In this episode of Nightmare Success, host Brent Cassity speaks with Tyler Foster, a young 22 year old man who faced his worst fears as a teenager and transformed his life after a traumatic encounter with the criminal justice system and prison time. HIs experience ignited his passion for criminal legal reform. Tyler chose to lead with his story and not hide from it. It is the main reason why he was accepted into law school with a full tuition scholarship.. Tyler shares his journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a go to "jailhouse attorney" to being accepted in Law School, advocating for criminal legal reform. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Formerly Incarcerated College Graduates Network helping to enhance educational and employment opportunities for the formerly incarcerated individuals. He discusses the importance of resilience, the impact of his experiences on his career aspirations, and the lessons learned along the way.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
Imagine if you were a well known New York Prosecutor and you found yourself as an inmate in a Federal Prison. How does one make that situation work? In this episode of Nightmare Success, host Brent Cassity interviews Tara Lenich, a former New York prosecutor who faced her worst fears when she was arrested for forging a signature of a judge for a wiretap that resulted in spending time in a federal prison. Tara shares her journey from a successful career in law to navigating the complexities of the legal system as a defendant. The conversation explores themes of pressure, resilience, and the importance of asking for help during challenging times. Tara's story serves as an inspiration for those facing their own nightmares, emphasizing the need for support and understanding in difficult situations. In this conversation, Tara Lenich shares her experiences of entering and navigating life in prison as prosecutor, the importance of building new relationships, and the hard challenges of reentry into society. Tara also discusses her new company, Liberty Advisors, that helps people walk through the journey of being indicted, mitigation strategies, the court process, prison, and helpful steps for reentry. If you are in need of these services go to libertyadvisorsllc.comShow sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
In this episode of the Nightmare Success podcast, host Brent Cassity speaks with Keenan Hudson, who shares his harrowing journey from a troubled youth in Philadelphia to serving nearly 15 years in prison for a robbery that included a group of kids that turned fatal. Keenan discusses the challenges he faced growing up without a father, the impact of his mother's death who he was incredibly close to, and the choices that led him down a dark path. He reflects on what it was like to enter maximum security prison as teenager knowing that this would be the place he would mature into a adult. He was given wise advice from his judge on how he should do his time. Keenan received his GED and a college education, and took advantage of self development opportunities behind the walls. He used mentors and a plan to successfully tackle reentry as a musician, author (The Unspoken Truth and Life Story), speaker, and entrepreneur. Keenan had the mindset that things would get better for him, and implemented his plan to stay on track. This conversation highlights themes of resilience, personal growth, and the importance of mentorship in overcoming life's obstacles. Keenan discusses how he built a new life after prison by asking for help from a minister who had a shared experience. He concludes with valuable lessons learned from his journey, encouraging others to find their unique paths and not compare themselves to others. Keenan is the host of "The Reentry Connect Podcast." Learn more about Keenan at keenanhudson.comShow sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
In this episode of Nightmare Success, Brent Cassity interviews Richard Bronson, a former partner at Stratton Oakmont from the movie "The Wolf Of Wall Street", who shares his incredible journey from Wall Street success to prison and back. Richard discusses the challenges he faced, the lessons learned, and how he turned his life around after incarceration. The conversation delves into the realities of life in prison, the impact of his past decisions, and the importance of resilience and personal growth. In this conversation, Richard Bronson shares his unique experiences in prison, highlighting the humor and humanity often overlooked in such environments. He discusses the challenges of reentry into society after incarceration, the founding of his employment platform '70 Million Jobs', and the impact of the pandemic on his initiatives. Richard emphasizes the importance of community and employment for the formerly incarcerated, advocating for their empowerment and the need for a collective voice in society. Contact Richard Bronson at richard@70millionjobs.comShow sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
In this episode of Nightmare Success, Brent Cassity interviews Mikel Jones, a former prominent attorney who faced a dramatic fall from grace, leading to a 42-month prison sentence. Mikel Jones was a nationally recognized attorney who was a frequent guest on numerous TV and radio shows. He was General Counsel for the impactful Congressman Alcee Hastings. Mikel shares his journey from a troubled childhood in Philadelphia to becoming a successful lawyer, his experiences with the FBI, the challenges of trial and conviction, and the harsh realities of prison life. His Reentry story is raw and real. He discusses the importance of faith, resilience, and community support in overcoming adversity. Mikel now advocates for nonviolent white-collar offenders, aiming to bring awareness to their struggles and injustices within the criminal justice system.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
In this episode of Nightmare Success, host Brent Cassity interviews Sheena Eastburn, who shares her harrowing journey from being convicted of murder at 17 to serving 25 years in prison. Sheena discusses her traumatic childhood, including getting married at the age of 15. She shares with us the nightmare of the night that forever changed her life. Sheena shares with us what goes through your mind when you are sentenced to life without parole as a teenager. Sexual abuse happened to Sheena with a guard while she was in jail waiting for her trial. The evidence of this abuse was purposedly hidden until years later when it was revealed in another abuse case. Sheena walks us through the struggles she faced in prison, including the challenges of reentry into society. Despite the odds, Sheena found hope, purpose, and a passion for advocacy, working to help others navigate the criminal justice system and fight for reform. She is now a paralegal at a law firm and the founder of two non-profits: Show Me Justice For All and P.R.E.P for Release.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
In this episode of the Nightmare Success podcast, host Brent Cassity interviews Jerry Durand, who survived being sentenced to 20 years in prison, the heartache of his wife's death while he was incarcerated, then dealing with his own prostate cancer diagnosis, shingles, and covid. He shares his harrowing journey from being a successful investor in the foreign currency market to being sentenced to 20 years in prison after going to trial for financial crimes. Jerry discusses the challenges he faced during his time in prison, his innovative idea for a game called 'Prison Land', and the lessons he learned about resilience, personal growth, and the justice system. The conversation delves into Jerry's early life, his career in professional wrestling and brokerage, the rise and fall of his financial ventures, and the emotional turmoil of going through a trial. Jerry's story is one of overcoming fears and finding strength in adversity. Jerry is a true survivor on so many levels and he is open about his coping strategies, and how he refused to give up. Jerry also introduces his innovative concept for a prison-themed game, Prison Land, aimed at fostering change and supporting inmates, emphasizing the significance of hope and resilience. Learn more about the game Prison Land https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/prisonland/prison-land?ref=8xmxloShow sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
How does a guy go from a five year prison sentence to Police Sergeant? In this episode of Nightmare Success, Brent Cassity interviews Ameer Williams, who shares his incredible journey from a troubled childhood and drug dealing to serving time in prison and ultimately becoming a police sergeant. Ameer discusses the challenges he faced during his early life, his descent into crime, the realities of prison life, and his unexpected path to redemption through a second chance at life. His story serves as an inspiration for those seeking to overcome their fears and transform their lives to make the impossible possible. In this conversation, Ameer shares his journey from struggling struggled with people who didn't accept him in his own precinct because of his past. He chose not to quit and gritted through to make it. He now has helped over 700 people receive their own pardons. He discusses the challenges he faced in finding employment, the pivotal moment that led him to pursue a pardon, and the support he received from mentors along the way. Ameer emphasizes the importance of resilience, community support, and the transformative power of second chances, both for himself and those he helps.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
Meet the real Divine G Whitfield who inspired the Academy Award nominated Movie Sing Sing. Colman Domingo was nominated for Best Actor playing Divine G in the movie Sing Sing. Divine G is just attended the Academy Awards for his movie. In this episode of the Nightmare Success Podcast, host Brent Cassity engages in a profound conversation with Divine G Whitfield and Attorney Jeffrey Deskovic, both of whom have experienced the harrowing reality of wrongful conviction. Divine G shares his journey of resilience, creativity, and the founding of Rehabilitation Through the Arts (RTA)while serving 25 years in prison for a crime he did not commit. Jeffrey, who was wrongfully convicted for 16 years and exonerated through DNA, discusses his work in advocating for justice and helping others find freedom. Together, they explore themes of hope, community support, and the transformative power of art in healing and rehabilitation. Their stories serve as a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of fighting for justice and truth. It must further be noted that Divine G is still fighting to undo this gross miscarriage of justice and currently has a Conviction Review Unit (CRU) Complaint pending in the Kings County District Attorney's Office. This complaint has been pending in that Office for over seven years.To assist in the endeavor to free Divine G from this gross miscarriage of justice, click on the FreeDivineG.org link and sign the Petition.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"
In this episode of the Nightmare Success podcast, host Brent Cassity interviews Brad Rouse, an award winning Broadway theater director and writer who shares his journey from a middle-class upbringing in St. Louis to the heights of Broadway and the depths of addiction. Brad discusses his early love for theater, his time at Harvard, and the pivotal moments that led to his struggles with addiction and eventual arrest. Through candid storytelling, he reflects on the lessons learned and the transformative power of facing one's fears and challenges. In this conversation, Brad shares his journey from addiction and incarceration to recovery and helping others. Brad now uses his creativity and talents at White Collar Advice Company to help people who have been convicted and facing sentencing. Brad assists indicted individuals with writing their life narrative to deliver to the court. He reflects on the challenges of reentry into society, the importance of support systems, and the power of storytelling in healing. Through his experiences, he emphasizes the adaptability of individuals and the potential for personal growth after hitting rock bottom.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"