Surviving and Thriving - Pt 2: Ex-Cons Give Back

January 11, 2012
Hosted by Susan Bartelstone

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Episode Description

Sad but true: two-thirds of ex-offenders relapse into crime after they’re released from prison. Against heavy odds, however, some DO turn their lives around and tonight Crime Prevention Specialist Susan Bartelstone will be speaking with some former bad guys who are not only law-abiding citizens now but are inspiring other ex-cons to do the same. You’ll meet Larry Lawton, who, after spending 11 years in some of the country’s toughest federal prisons, founded The Reality Check Program for at-risk kids that shows them what prison life is really like—and affected thousands of troubled lives so far. Former drug abuser/dealer Randy Kearse, now the author of five motivational books based on his personal experiences, inspires other ex cons who are trying to go straight and transition back into society. And, Defy Ventures, founded by former Wall Street financial analyst Catherine Rohr, helps ex-cons with an entrepreneurial bent go into business for themselves. Be inspired.

Crime Prevention 101

Archives Available on VoiceAmerica Variety Channel

Welcome to Crime Prevention 101, the Personal Safety radio show with an optimistic perspective on a sober subject. Get set for personal safety stories that demand to be heard whether heartbreaking, infuriating or just plain weird; learn about hot crime topics and people who are making the headlines; and find out about the trends and legal developments that are going to impact your life, either positively or negatively, in the future. Most importantly, be empowered and inspired by success stories about people who've fought off an attacker or deterred a crime. You’ll also get a chance to address your own personal safety concerns, either by phone or e-mail. So, tune in to “Crime Prevention 101.” It'd be a crime not to listen!

Susan Bartelstone

Talking the talk because she's walked the walk! Years ago, Susan Bartelstone had a bad break-up with a guy, complete with physical and emotional bruises, and determined to learn how to protect herself. Today, she's a certified Crime Prevention Specialist and personal safety expert, with 17 years combined training in WWII Combatives, self defense and martial arts. Along the way, she deterred five extremely dangerous criminal encounters, fought her way out of a surprise attack and, for more than 18 years, from such organizations as American Express, the U.S. Post Office and the Livery Cab Owners Coalition of New York.. Author of Think Fast and Prevent a Violent Crime: How to Respond to Danger in 20 Seconds (or Less!), which is based on her own experiences, she’s been featured in a long and varied list of media, including the “Today Show,” “America’s Most Wanted” and Self Magazine.

Over the years, she’s helped thousands of people solve their personal safety dilemmas with her personal safety programs and her practical advice—which stresses the many opportunities you have to avoid or defuse a criminal encounter and how to use your brains instead of your muscles in a fight.

Episode Directory

January 2012

  • 1/25/2012: Special Encore Presentation: Surviving and Thriving - Pt 2: Ex-Cons Give Back Listen Now
  • 1/11/2012: Surviving and Thriving - Pt 2: Ex-Cons Give Back Listen Now

December 2011

November 2011



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