The Inside Job - Life After Prison

Welcome to Inside Job—a podcast by offenders, for offenders. I'm your host, Cleve Bell, and today I'm joined by Chris Wilson, author of the book The Masterplan: My Journey from Life in Prison to a Life of Purpose.

In this powerful episode of Inside Job, Chris shares his remarkable journey from incarceration to inspiration.

He opens up about his childhood, the ten years he spent behind bars, and the determination it took to stay grounded in his purpose and goals. Chris made the most of every opportunity to transform his life—and now, he's committed to helping others do the same.

Based in Baltimore, Maryland, Chris is a passionate advocate for criminal justice reform and workforce development. He is the founder and owner of Barclay Investment Corporation, a multi-service social enterprise that connects unemployed Baltimore City residents with meaningful work in residential and commercial contracting. His entrepreneurial spirit extends to The House of DaVinci, a high-end furniture restoration and design company, and Master Plan Productions, a content development company focused on social impact.

Tune in to hear how Chris is turning second chances into success—for himself and for his community.

Reach out to Riverside House:

Would you like to be featured on a future episode of Inside Job?

We would love to hear from you! Please go to riverside house.org, click the media tab then podcast. There you will find an application to submit your request.

Welcome to Inside Job—a podcast by offenders, for offenders. I'm your host, Cleve Bell, and today I'm joined by Reconcile.

In this episode of Inside Job, we welcome Reconcile—artist, husband, and dedicated advocate for renewal, social justice, and youth empowerment.

Based in Miami, Reconcile is deeply committed to mentoring young people and building stronger communities. He maintains a strong connection with Miami Youth for Christ, an organization that provides impactful outreach programs for youth and their families.

Today, Reconcile shares the heart behind his mission and how his music serves as a voice for change, healing, and hope. Don't miss this powerful conversation about purpose, passion, and using your platform to make a difference.

Key Takeaways:

[2:56] Reconcile talks about his youth and upbringing.

[6:53] Reconcile shares about his first incarceration.

[9:16] Reconcile remembers the moment where he was led to Christ.

[10:40] Reconcile talks about the point at which he started dedicating his life to God.

[12:49] What did Reconcile do when he began to make a change in his life?

[16:39] How did Reconcile go from where he was to Rice University?

[17:31] Cleve shares how he got to go to college.

[18:51] Reconcile shares how his father encouraged him to live differently than he had.

[23:47] Reconcile chose to play football at Rice University.

[27:55] Reconcile talks about the amazing relationship he had with his grandparents and all he learned from them.

[32:08] Reconcile also built a beautiful relationship with his father.

[34:01] Reconcile shares how he got involved in music.

[38:22] Reconcile talks about his role now working directly with the Department of Justice.

[39:27] Reconcile advocates through music to promote social justice.

Learn More About Riverside House:

Riverside House is a nonprofit, government, and faith community partner. We have been active agents of change and sustained progress in the Miami area for more than three decades, helping tens of thousands walk a straight path into refashioned, sober, and spiritually upright lives as free citizens.

At Riverside House, we provide a critical relief valve during the transition of offenders from confinement to community. Our teams of well-credentialed and committed professionals support each man and woman who enters our doors in their unique, personal path to rehabilitation and recovery.

We are in the business of second chances, and we know that the consideration we extend to those most in need must be holistic in nature. We address the total person — mind, body, and spirit, attuned to the moral and material needs we all share.

"… Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me."

Matthew 25:40 (NIV)

To learn more visit riversidehouse.org

Reach out to Riverside House:

Would you like to be featured on a future episode of Inside Job?

We would love to hear from you! Please go to riverside house.org, click the media tab then podcast. There you will find an application to submit your request.

Welcome to Inside Job—a podcast by offenders, for offenders. I'm your host, Cleve Bell, and today I'm joined by Jackie Rose Rodriguez.

In this episode, Jackie opens up about her incredible journey of survival and resilience. From a challenging and tumultuous childhood, Jackie's story evolves into one of profound transformation and healing. Today, she lives a life dedicated to helping and serving others, proving that strength and hope can emerge from even the darkest of beginnings.

Key Takeaways:

[1:30] Jackie shares about her childhood and upbringing.

[3:30] How was school for Jackie?

[5:58] What was the turning point for Jackie?

[8:04] How are you supposed to learn without role models?

[8:55] Jackie talks about the most valuable lessons she has learned.

[13:15] Jackie shares how therapy was helpful for her and her daughter.

[17:41] What would Jackie say to herself if she showed up in the group she now leads?

[18:08] What does Jackie think about the Steps and the Biblical principles in her journey?

[19:35] How valuable does Jackie find sponsors?

[21:21] What does "the process" mean to Jackie?

[24:42] As humans we tend to focus on what is wrong and forget that we have small victories throughout the day.

[28:08] Let God love you.

[29:45] How did Jackie come to the Faith?

[34.11] God is giving, loving, and more present than ever.

Learn More About Riverside House:

Riverside House is a nonprofit, government, and faith community partner. We have been active agents of change and sustained progress in the Miami area for more than three decades, helping tens of thousands walk a straight path into refashioned, sober, and spiritually upright lives as free citizens.

At Riverside House, we provide a critical relief valve during the transition of offenders from confinement to community. Our teams of well-credentialed and committed professionals support each man and woman who enters our doors in their unique, personal path to rehabilitation and recovery.

We are in the business of second chances, and we know that the consideration we extend to those most in need must be holistic in nature. We address the total person — mind, body, and spirit, attuned to the moral and material needs we all share.

"… Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me."

Matthew 25:40 (NIV)

To learn more visit riversidehouse.org

Email Jackie Rose Rodriguez at [email protected]

Reach out to Riverside House:

Would you like to be featured on a future episode of Inside Job?

We would love to hear from you! Please go to riverside house.org, click the media tab then podcast. There you will find an application to submit your request.

Welcome to Inside Job—a podcast by offenders, for offenders. I'm your host, Cleve Bell, and today I'm joined by

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Chris Wilson—entrepreneur, criminal justice reform advocate, and author of The Master Plan: My Journey from Life in Prison to a Life of Purpose.

Chris shares his powerful story of resilience, from a troubled childhood to serving over a decade behind bars, and how staying focused on his purpose became the foundation for his transformation. Through discipline, vision, and determination, Chris turned his life around—and now he's committed to helping others do the same.

Based in Baltimore, Maryland, Chris is the founder and CEO of Barclay Investment Corporation, a multi-service social enterprise that creates employment opportunities for formerly incarcerated individuals through residential and commercial contracting. His additional ventures include The House of DaVinci, a luxury furniture restoration and design company, and Master Plan Productions, a media company focused on social impact storytelling.

Tune in to hear how Chris turned a life sentence into a master plan—and how he's building a legacy of hope, purpose, and opportunity for others.

Reach out to Riverside House:

Would you like to be featured on a future episode of Inside Job?

We would love to hear from you! Please go to riverside house.org, click the media tab then podcast. There you will find an application to submit your request.

Welcome to Inside Job—a podcast by offenders, for offenders.I'm your host, Cleve Bell, and today I'm joined by Desmond Meade.

In this episode of Inside Job, host Cleveland Bell sits down with Desmond Meade, President and Executive Director of the Florida Rights Restoration Coalition (FRRC), to discuss the historic Amendment 4—a grassroots movement that restored voting rights to over 1.4 million Floridians with past felony convictions.

Desmond shares his deeply personal journey through addiction, incarceration, and ultimately, recovery and redemption. His unwavering commitment to justice and second chances has led to national recognition, including being named one of Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People in 2019.

This powerful conversation is a testament to the life-changing impact of advocacy, hope, and the belief that no one is beyond redemption.

We're in the business of second chances—tune in and be inspired.

Reach out to Riverside House:

Would you like to be featured on a future episode of Inside Job?

We would love to hear from you! Please go to riverside house.org, click the media tab then podcast. There you will find an application to submit your request.

Welcome to Inside Job—a podcast by offenders, for offenders. I'm your host, Cleve Bell, and today I'm joined by Attorney James L. Walker who is the President and CEO of Walker and Associates, located in Atlanta Georgia.

In this episode, we sit down with Mr. Walker, a seasoned nonprofit leader with over 25 years of experience advocating for underserved communities.

A native of Richmond, Connecticut, and a proud graduate of Howard University with a Master's degree from Yale, Mr. Walker has dedicated his career to supporting individuals on their path to restoration—particularly ex-offenders striving to rebuild their lives.

Together, we discuss his impactful work, the role of faith in transformation, and our shared commitment to living a purpose-driven life guided by God's teachings.

Tune in for a powerful conversation about redemption, service, and spiritual growth.

Key Takeaways:

[1:40] Mr. Walker talks about his upbringing and professional background.

[3:48] Mr. Walker shares about his faith growing up, how going to church kept him out of the streets, and his experiences as a teenager "entering the system."

[7:54] Cleve shares his experience of getting "in the system" and how hard it was for him to get out of it.

[9:30] Cleve and Mr. Walker talk about the matter of the current prohibition from voting to the ex-felons.

[12:02] Mr. Walker encourages people not to allow the system to define them.

[14:03] Getting a college education is often not enough.

[17:00] You have to do more than vote.

[21:10] Mr. Walker talks about this clientele.

[24:07] Mr. Walker shares how he balances his career and his personal life.

[27:25] Mr. Walker talks about how grateful he is for the team he has now at Walker and Associates.

[31:06] Walker and Associates provided training for over 300 men and watched them getting their life back together.

[37:30] Cleve remembers his grandfather and the great influence his words had on him.

[38:20] Mr. Walker also talks about his grandfather.

[39:22] Mr. Walker shares his favorite Bible verses.

[41:38] Mr. Walker gives his spiritual advice to ex-offenders.

[45:58] Mr. Walker shares his words of encouragement for all the folks who like rap music.

Learn More About Riverside House:

Riverside House is a nonprofit, government, and faith community partner. We have been active agents of change and sustained progress in the Miami area for more than three decades, helping tens of thousands walk a straight path into refashioned, sober, and spiritually upright lives as free citizens.

At Riverside House, we provide a critical relief valve during the transition of offenders from confinement to community. Our teams of well-credentialed and committed professionals support each man and woman who enters our doors in their unique, personal path to rehabilitation and recovery.

We are in the business of second chances, and we know that the consideration we extend to those most in need must be holistic in nature. We address the total person — mind, body, and spirit, attuned to the moral and material needs we all share.

"… Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me."

Matthew 25:40 (NIV)

To learn more visit riversidehouse.org

Reach out to Riverside House:

Would you like to be featured on a future episode of Inside Job?

We would love to hear from you! Please go to riverside house.org, click the media tab then podcast. There you will find an application to submit your request.

Welcome to Inside job, a podcast by offenders for offenders. I am Cleve Bell and I am accompanied today by Chris Wilson, author of the book The Masterplan: My Journey from Life in Prison to a Life of Purpose. In this episode, Chris shares about his childhood, the 10 years he was incarcerated, the importance of staying true to his purpose and goals, how he took advantage of every opportunity to transform his life, and how now he dedicates his time to help others to also rediscover their lives and achieve their dreams.

Chris lives in Baltimore, Maryland, where he spends most of his time working for criminal justice reform and creating job opportunities for offenders. He is the owner and founder of the Barclay Investment Corporation, a multi-service social enterprise, specializing in residential and commercial contracting work. Barclay works closely with the local workforce and social service providers to connect unemployed Baltimore City residents with clients who are in need of a number of services. His other business ventures include The House of DaVinci, a high-end furniture restoration and design company, and Master Plan Productions, a social impact content development company.

Key Takeaways:

[2:23] Chris shares about his life growing up in Washington, D.C.

[4:03] Chris talks about the role of his grandparents in his childhood.

[6:56] Chris shares about how he got incarcerated and how he made it through that system.

[8:43] “I am going to prove that I am a good person.”

[10:12] Chris realized his life has been hard, but many of the other people in prison have also experienced tough lives.

[10:45] Chris talks about his passion for playing the cello.

[11:44] Chris shares about the time when he started to write letters to the judge telling about his goals and commitments.

[13:55] The origins of a lifelong friendship and mentorship with Steven.

[16:15] Chris talks about the moment he was moved to a halfway house.

[17:25] Going back into prison as a result of a major breakdown caused by his mother’s death.

[18:51] Chris speaks about how he started his time of giving back.

[20:06] The time when Chris fathered a child.

[22:15] How did Chris discover the art piece of his life?

[24:42] Chris extends his words of encouragement for those going through incarceration.

[26:14] The importance of planning with small steps and keeping motivated.

[30:01] Chris’s goal is to send a copy of his book to every person incarcerated and returning citizen.

Learn More About Riverside House:

Riverside House is a nonprofit, government, and faith community partner. We have been active agents of change and sustained progress in the Miami area for more than three decades, helping tens of thousands walk a straight path into refashioned, sober, and spiritually upright lives as free citizens.

At Riverside House, we provide a critical relief valve during the transition of offenders from confinement to community. Our teams of well-credentialed and committed professionals support each man and woman who enters our doors in their unique, personal path to rehabilitation and recovery.

We are in the business of second chances, and we know that the consideration we extend to those most in need must be holistic in nature. We address the total person — mind, body, and spirit, attuned to the moral and material needs we all share.

“ …Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”

Matthew 25:40 (NIV)

To learn more visit riversidehouse.org

Reach out to Riverside House:

Would you like to be featured on a future episode of Inside Job?

We would love to hear from you! Please go to riverside house.org, click the media tab then podcast. There you will find an application to submit your request.

Learn more about Chris Wilson

Visit Chris Wilson website

The Masterplan: My Journey from Life in Prison to a Life of Purpose, Chris Wilson

Barclay Investment Corporation

Chris Wilson on Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin, and YouTube.

Welcome to Inside Job—a podcast by offenders, for offenders. I'm your host, Cleve Bell, and today I'm joined by Jeff Walsh.

In today's episode, Jeff shares his unique journey through incarceration—an experience that began at age 34 and opened his eyes to the deeper flaws within the justice system.

Driven by addiction, Jeff's path to prison was not unlike many others, but his perspective once inside set him apart. He quickly recognized how the system often fails to support true rehabilitation and lasting change. Through it all, Jeff discovered the power of faith, trust, and unconditional love—principles that helped him uncover his purpose and stay committed to it.

This is a powerful conversation about personal transformation, spiritual growth, and the pursuit of a life that matters.

Key Takeaways:

[:44] Jeff shares how he started to get in trouble at 34 years old.

[2:25] The penitentiary system was not designed to really help people get out of the vicious cycle.

[3:04] Jeff talks about his childhood.

[6:52] Jeff shares about his high school years.

[8:56] Jeff talks about the lessons learned from working.

[10:33] Jeff shares about the beginning of his addiction.

[12:14] He was always trying to behave to get his parents' approval.

[15:22] Jeff also got in trouble inside prison and had a life-changing experience.

[17:56] Jeff's experience when he was first released.

[20:10] You have to do the best you can with you because that is all you have.

[21:45] Keep moving forward.

[22:07] Jeff talks about his first job and first place to live after incarceration.

[23:30] Jeff shares his dreams and visions.

[25:04] Faith and trust.

[28:00] We have to trust the process because it does work.

[29:26] You have to live to have experiences; they don't happen by themselves.

[32:54] What does loving myself actually look like? Fill your cup first.

[34:50] Jeff extends his advice to all listeners.

[36:20] How returning citizens better equip themselves in times of pandemic?

[41:01] Jeff talks about his plans for the near future.

Learn More About Riverside House:

Riverside House is a nonprofit, government, and faith community partner. We have been active agents of change and sustained progress in the Miami area for more than three decades, helping tens of thousands walk a straight path into refashioned, sober, and spiritually upright lives as free citizens.

At Riverside House, we provide a critical relief valve during the transition of offenders from confinement to community. Our teams of well-credentialed and committed professionals support each man and woman who enters our doors in their unique, personal path to rehabilitation and recovery.

We are in the business of second chances, and we know that the consideration we extend to those most in need must be holistic in nature. We address the total person — mind, body, and spirit, attuned to the moral and material needs we all share.

"… Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me."

Matthew 25:40 (NIV)

To learn more visit riversidehouse.org

Reach out to Riverside House:

Would you like to be featured on a future episode of Inside Job?

We would love to hear from you! Please go to riverside house.org, click the media tab then podcast. There you will find an application to submit your request.

Learn more about Jeff Walsh:

Jeff Walsh Breaking Chains

Welcome to Inside job, a show by offenders for offenders, I am Cleve Bell and I am accompanied today by Jeff Walsh. In today’s episode, he shares how his encounter with incarceration was different than the experience the majority has. Jeff first got in prison at 34 years old as a result of committing crimes to support an addiction; he soon realized the flaws in the system, how it was not really designed to help people to get out of it. Jeff shares his wise words about faith, trust, and unconditional love as the ways to find one’s mission in life and stick to it.

Key Takeaways:

[:44] Jeff shares how he started to get in trouble at 34 years old.

[2:25] The penitentiary system was not designed to really help people get out of the vicious cycle.

[3:04] Jeff talks about his childhood.

[6:52] Jeff shares about his high school years.

[8:56] Jeff talks about the lessons learned from working.

[10:33] Jeff shares about the beginning of his addiction.

[12:14] He was always trying to behave to get his parents’ approval.

[15:22] Jeff also got in trouble inside prison and had a life-changing experience.

[17:56] Jeff’s experience when he was first released.

[20:10] You have to do the best you can with you because that is all you have.

[21:45] Keep moving forward.

[22:07] Jeff talks about his first job and first place to live after incarceration.

[23:30] Jeff shares his dreams and visions.

[25:04] Faith and trust.

[28:00] We have to trust the process because it does work.

[29:26] You have to live to have experiences; they don’t happen by themselves.

[32:54] What does loving myself actually look like? Fill your cup first.

[34:50] Jeff extends his advice to all listeners.

[36:20] How returning citizens better equip themselves in times of pandemic?

[41:01] Jeff talks about his plans for the near future.

Learn More About Riverside House:

Riverside House is a nonprofit, government, and faith community partner. We have been active agents of change and sustained progress in the Miami area for more than three decades, helping tens of thousands walk a straight path into refashioned, sober, and spiritually upright lives as free citizens.

At Riverside House, we provide a critical relief valve during the transition of offenders from confinement to community. Our teams of well-credentialed and committed professionals support each man and woman who enters our doors in their unique, personal path to rehabilitation and recovery.

We are in the business of second chances, and we know that the consideration we extend to those most in need must be holistic in nature. We address the total person — mind, body, and spirit, attuned to the moral and material needs we all share.

“… Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”

Matthew 25:40 (NIV)

To learn more visit riversidehouse.org

Reach out to Riverside House:

Would you like to be featured on a future episode of Inside Job?

We would love to hear from you! Please go to riverside house.org, click the media tab then podcast. There you will find an application to submit your request.

Learn more about Jeff Walsh:

Jeff Walsh Breaking Chains

Welcome to Inside job, a podcast by offenders for offenders. I am Cleve Bell and I am accompanied today by Chris Wilson, author of the book The Masterplan: My Journey from Life in Prison to a Life of Purpose. In this episode, Chris shares about his childhood, the 10 years he was incarcerated, the importance of staying true to his purpose and goals, how he took advantage of every opportunity to transform his life, and how now he dedicates his time to help others to also rediscover their lives and achieve their dreams.

Chris lives in Baltimore, Maryland, where he spends most of his time working for criminal justice reform and creating job opportunities for offenders. He is the owner and founder of the Barclay Investment Corporation, a multi-service social enterprise, specializing in residential and commercial contracting work. Barclay works closely with the local workforce and social service providers to connect unemployed Baltimore City residents with clients who are in need of a number of services. His other business ventures include The House of DaVinci, a high-end furniture restoration and design company, and Master Plan Productions, a social impact content development company.

Key Takeaways:

[2:23] Chris shares about his life growing up in Washington, D.C.

[4:03] Chris talks about the role of his grandparents in his childhood.

[6:56] Chris shares about how he got incarcerated and how he made it through that system.

[8:43] “I am going to prove that I am a good person.”

[10:12] Chris realized his life has been hard, but many of the other people in prison have also experienced tough lives.

[10:45] Chris talks about his passion for playing the cello.

[11:44] Chris shares about the time when he started to write letters to the judge telling about his goals and commitments.

[13:55] The origins of a lifelong friendship and mentorship with Steven.

[16:15] Chris talks about the moment he was moved to a halfway house.

[17:25] Going back into prison as a result of a major breakdown caused by his mother’s death.

[18:51] Chris speaks about how he started his time of giving back.

[20:06] The time when Chris fathered a child.

[22:15] How did Chris discover the art piece of his life?

[24:42] Chris extends his words of encouragement for those going through incarceration.

[26:14] The importance of planning with small steps and keeping motivated.

[30:01] Chris’s goal is to send a copy of his book to every person incarcerated and returning citizen.

Learn More About Riverside House:

Riverside House is a nonprofit, government, and faith community partner. We have been active agents of change and sustained progress in the Miami area for more than three decades, helping tens of thousands walk a straight path into refashioned, sober, and spiritually upright lives as free citizens.

At Riverside House, we provide a critical relief valve during the transition of offenders from confinement to community. Our teams of well-credentialed and committed professionals support each man and woman who enters our doors in their unique, personal path to rehabilitation and recovery.

We are in the business of second chances, and we know that the consideration we extend to those most in need must be holistic in nature. We address the total person — mind, body, and spirit, attuned to the moral and material needs we all share.

“ …Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”

Matthew 25:40 (NIV)

To learn more visit riversidehouse.org

Reach out to Riverside House:

Would you like to be featured on a future episode of Inside Job?

We would love to hear from you! Please go to riverside house.org, click the media tab then podcast. There you will find an application to submit your request.

Learn more about Chris Wilson

Visit Chris Wilson website

The Masterplan: My Journey from Life in Prison to a Life of Purpose, Chris Wilson

Barclay Investment Corporation

Chris Wilson on Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin, and YouTube.