Redemption Stories with Bridget Cook Burch
Jul 16, 2025
Show notes
In this episode of Criminal Justice Corner, host Dr. Jennifer Matthews engages with author Bridget Cook-Burch, who shares her insights on transformational true crime stories. They discuss the journey of TJ Leyden, a former skinhead who turned his life around, and the broader implications of redemption and healing in society. The conversation emphasizes the importance of storytelling in understanding human experiences and the potential for personal growth and change.
Divorce Questions & Answers w/Attorney Jonathan Steele
Jul 09, 2025
Show notes
In this episode of Criminal Justice Corner, Dr. Jennifer Matthews interviews attorney Jonathan Steele, a divorce lawyer with over 12 years of experience. They discuss the emotional challenges of divorce, the importance of understanding costs and timelines, and the necessity of hiring the right attorney. Jonathan shares insights on prenuptial agreements, navigating divorce trials, and maintaining professional relationships within the legal system. The conversation emphasizes the complexities of divorce law and offers practical advice for individuals facing these difficult situations.
Empowering Women Through Self-Defense
Jul 02, 2025
Show notes
In this episode of Criminal Justice Corner, Dr. Jennifer
Matthews interviews Patti, the founder of Defense in Heels, a self-defense
training program designed specifically for women, taught by women. Patti shares
her background in trauma-informed care and her motivation for creating a
supportive and effective self-defense environment. The conversation covers the
importance of self-defense training, real-life applications, and the necessity
of ongoing practice to build confidence and skills. Patti emphasizes awareness
as a key factor in preventing crime and encourages women to take control of
their safety through education and training.
Journey of a Homicide Survivor w/Dr. Jan Canty
Jun 25, 2025
Show notes
In this episode of Criminal Justice Corner, Dr. Jennifer Matthews interviews Dr. Jan Canty, a psychologist and homicide survivor, who shares her harrowing experience of losing her husband to a gruesome murder. Dr. Canty discusses the challenges she faced in the aftermath, including dealing with debt, media scrutiny, and the emotional toll of grief. She emphasizes the importance of community support, advocacy for wrongful convictions, and the healing power of sharing stories. Through her podcast and books, Dr. Canty aims to help others navigate the complexities of loss and trauma.
The Dynamics of Love and Hate: A Panel Discussion
Jun 11, 2025
Show notes
In this episode of Criminal Justice Corner, Dr. Jennifer Matthews hosts a panel of authors to discuss a tragic case involving a man accused of murdering his fiance on the day of their engagement. The conversation delves into the complexities of relationships, the dynamics of power, and the potential for violence. The panelists share their insights on how personal histories and substance abuse can influence behavior, as well as their experiences as authors writing about crime and relationships. They emphasize the importance of seeking help and trusting one's instincts in difficult situations, while also discussing their upcoming projects and the inspiration behind their writing.
Magnolia Bluff Crime Chronicles w/ Rox Burkey & Charles Breakfield
May 28, 2025
Show notes
In this episode of Criminal Justice Corner, Dr. Jennifer Matthews hosts authors Rox Burkey and Charles Breakfield, who discuss their collaborative work on the Magnolia Bluff Crime Chronicles. They delve into the themes of their cozy mystery series, the development of characters, particularly strong female leads, and the integration of real-world issues like cyber crime and cryptocurrency into their storytelling. The conversation highlights the unique structure of their book series, where multiple authors contribute to a shared universe, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected stories. The episode concludes with information on where to find their books and the importance of reader reviews.
Empowering Survivors: The Callisto Approach w/Tracy DeTomasi
May 15, 2025
Show notes
In this episode of Criminal Justice Corner, host Jennifer Matthews speaks with Tracy DeTomasi, CEO of Callisto, a nonprofit organization focused on addressing sexual violence and supporting survivors. Tracy shares her extensive background in gender-based violence and the origins of Callisto, which aims to hold perpetrators accountable while providing a secure platform for survivors to connect. The conversation delves into the importance of survivor support, the challenges within the criminal justice system, and the need for greater awareness and education surrounding sexual violence. Website is www.projectcallisto.org
Healing from Grief: Allicia's Story
Apr 30, 2025
Show notes
In this episode of Criminal Justice Corner, Dr. Jennifer Matthews interviews Allicia Johnson-Niles, a survivor of childhood trauma stemming from her father's murder. Allicia shares her journey of healing, the impact of her father's death on her life, and the importance of community and therapy in overcoming grief. She discusses the challenges of navigating her emotions as a child and the eventual realization of the need for closure and understanding of her father's story. The conversation emphasizes the significance of support systems, the role of therapy, and the ongoing nature of grief, offering valuable insights for anyone dealing with similar experiences.
The Corruption of The Ed Burke w/ Don Sawyer
Apr 16, 2025
Show notes
In this episode of Criminal Justice Corner, Dr. Jennifer Matthews interviews Don, who shares his extensive background in education and social change, as well as his personal experiences during the 1968 Democratic Convention in Chicago. The conversation shifts to the case of Ed Burke, a former Chicago alderman convicted of corruption, highlighting issues of justice and inequality in the legal system. Don reflects on the importance of civic engagement and voting, emphasizing that local elections have a significant impact on communities. The episode concludes with takeaways on standing up for oneself and the importance of participation in democracy.
Unraveling Crime: A Journalist's Perspective
Apr 02, 2025
Show notes
Summary In this episode of Criminal Justice Corner, Dr. Jennifer Matthews interviews Journalist Steffanie Costigan, who shares a deeply personal crime story involving her sister. The conversation explores the complexities of crime, victim support, and the challenges faced in the legal system. Steffanie provides insights into her experiences as a journalist covering crime and homelessness, and offers advice for those dealing with similar situations. The episode concludes with a discussion about Steffanie's books and her journey as an author.
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