The National Reentry Coalition Podcast

Lorenzo: "More Than Just A Story - Why Lived Experience Matters"

In this deeply personal episode, we explore the journey from trauma, addiction, and incarceration to purpose, healing, and advocacy. Growing up angry, defiant, and constantly pushing boundaries, today’s story reflects how unresolved childhood trauma and years trapped in the justice system can shape a person’s life—but not define their future. After spending 22 years cycling through arrests, consequences, and self-destruction while trying to build a career in the food and beverage industry, everything eventually changed. What began as survival evolved into purpose. Today, that same lived experience is being used to serve at-risk youth, justice-impacted individuals, incarcerated people, and families fighting for a second chance. This episode is about resilience, redemption, and proving that transformation is possible no matter how far someone has fallen. If you’ve ever struggled with your past, questioned your worth, or wondered whether people can truly change—this conversation is for you.

Reentry Is Everyone’s Business: Understanding Reentry: Challenges, Gaps, and Solutions

🎙️ Episode Description In this inaugural episode of the National Reentry Weekly Podcast, Dr. Barry Gregory introduces the mission behind the show and the movement driving it forward. Drawing from his own experience of being formerly incarcerated in federal prison, Dr. Gregory shares why this work is deeply personal and why supporting justice-impacted individuals is critical to building stronger communities. This episode explores the real challenges people face when returning from incarceration—often without the resources, support, or preparation needed to succeed—and how those gaps impact not only individuals, but families and entire communities. You’ll also be introduced to the work of the National Reentry Coalition (NRC), a growing movement focused on providing lifelong rehabilitation, reentry, reintegration, and recovery support. Learn how NRC is addressing these challenges through local coalitions, evidence-based training, peer coaching, and an integrated reentry model that connects people to housing, employment, and community support. This episode sets the foundation for what’s to come—real conversations, practical strategies, and voices that matter. If you believe in second chances, this podcast is for you. Dr. Barry M. Gregory Ed.D., M.Ed., BA Office Phone: 561-685-0222 Founder and Director of the National Reentry Coalition Website: https://beaconacademy1954.wixstudio.com/my-site-1 [https://beaconacademy1954.wixstudio.com/my-site-1] National Reentry Coalition Podcast: https://media.rss.com/httpsanchorfms10b3c8834podcastrss/feed.xml [https://media.rss.com/httpsanchorfms10b3c8834podcastrss/feed.xml] Email: beaconacademy1954@gmail.com [beaconacademy1954@gmail.com] Schedule An Appointment calendly.com [http://calendly.com] Join For Free Today and Become A NRC Coalition Member https://beaconacademy1954.wixstudio.com/my-site-1/blank [https://beaconacademy1954.wixstudio.com/my-site-1/blank]

From Losing Everything to Building Something That Matters: A Reentry Story of Resilience and Purpose

In this powerful debut episode of the Reentry Resources Podcast, Dr. Barry Gregory shares his deeply personal journey through loss, incarceration, and the long road back. This is not a story of overnight success—it’s a raw and honest account of what it means to lose everything: career, reputation, stability, and hope… and what it takes to rebuild your life anyway. Dr. Gregory opens up about the emotional and financial toll of the justice system, the impact on his family, the reality of incarceration, and the overwhelming lack of support many returning citizens face when coming home. But this episode is more than a story—it’s a call to action. Out of pain came purpose. Out of struggle came a mission. In this episode, he announces the launch of the National Reentry Coalition—a movement dedicated to providing real support, real resources, and real advocacy for justice-impacted individuals, reentry professionals, and communities nationwide. If you’ve been impacted by the justice system. If you work in reentry, corrections, or behavioral health. If you believe in second chances and real change This episode is for you. It’s time to move beyond excuses. It’s time to invest in people. It’s time to build something that actually works—together. 👉 Listen now and learn how you can be part of the movement.

1. Preparing People for Reentry Success: Why Reentry and Rehabilitation Programs Matter

Podcast Description Each year, hundreds of thousands of individuals leave jails and prisons and return to their communities. The question isn’t whether people will return—it’s whether they return prepared. In this episode, we explore why reentry and rehabilitation programs matter and how they can help justice-impacted individuals build stable, productive lives after incarceration. The conversation looks at the role of both in-custody programming and community-based reentry initiatives, and how these efforts can strengthen families, improve public safety, and reduce recidivism. You’ll also learn about the importance of using evidence-based practices—including cognitive behavioral approaches and motivational strategies—to help individuals develop the practical skills needed for long-term change. Dr. Barry Gregory also introduces his Reentry Skills and Readiness approach, a strengths-based framework designed to measure and build the core skills that support successful rehabilitation and reentry. If you work in corrections, treatment, probation, or reentry services—or simply care about safer communities and second chances—this episode offers practical insights and a hopeful perspective on what works. Interested in learning more about the Reentry Skills and Readiness approach or consulting for your program? Contact Dr. Barry to start the conversation.

“Recovery Coaching for Busy Professionals: Thriving Beyond Traditional Treatment”

Podcast Description: In this episode of the CBT Coaching Podcast, Dr. Barry explores how recovery coaching can be a practical, confidential, and flexible alternative for busy executives and medical professionals seeking support outside traditional treatment programs. Recovery coaching focuses on goal-oriented strategies, accountability, and practical tools to help clients reduce or stop unwanted substance use, manage stress, improve relationships, and maintain long-term recovery—all while balancing demanding professional responsibilities. Learn how a one-on-one coaching partnership can provide clarity, confidence, and a structured path to thriving in both life and work. Work With Dr. Barry One-on-One If you’re ready to take the next step and want personalized support, you can sign up for individual CBT coaching. Dr. Barry will help you identify your patterns, challenge outdated beliefs, strengthen your coping skills, and build the emotional clarity needed to reach your goals. You deserve a life that feels healthier, happier, and more aligned with who you want to be — and you don’t have to do it alone. Find contact information and coaching details in the show notes. Dr. Barry 561-685-0222 barrygregory1955@gmail.com [barrygregory1955@gmail.com] Disclaimer: This podcast is not intended as medical advice, and we recommend that individuals consult with a licensed medical doctor and/or a mental health professional for questions about their health and care. BIO: Dr. Barry M. Gregory Ed.D., M.Ed., BA brings over 30 years of professional experience in mental health, addiction recovery, and behavioral change to his coaching work. He has served as a professor, clinical director, national trainer, consultant, author, and coach, with expertise grounded in evidence-based approaches, particularly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). What distinguishes Dr. Gregory’s work is the integration of formal training and lived experience. Having navigated significant personal adversity and successfully rebuilt his life, he brings authentic empathy, realism, and credibility to the coaching process — pairing theory with practical application.