Every year, 35,000 to 40,000 people in California begin the process of reentering society after prison, a process known as “reentry.”

Successful reentry depends on many factors, from reliable housing to employment opportunities.

Today on Midday Edition, we bring you an episode of "Imperfect Paradise," the narrative podcast from LAist public radio.

In this episode, we meet Cesar Quijano who is struggling with addiction and reentry after multiple stints in prison. He discovers ultrarunning, a hobby that turns into his addiction and salvation.

• Antonia Cereijido, host of LAist's "Imperfect Paradise"
• Lucy Copp, producer and reporter at LAist
• Cesar Quijano, ultramarathoner