Nightmare Success In and Out

What happens if your worst fear becomes your reality? Brent Cassity was a successful CEO working in a family business that grew to a national company that was recognized by the media of being the pioneers in their industry. Brent had it all and lost it all. He found himself standing at the gates of Leavenworth Prison to serve a 5 year sentence. Brent’s podcast explores the stories of inmates who were in and now out of prison. What was life like before they went in, life inside prison, and life now that they are back home. These conversations are deep, sad. often funny, but always interesting.

Latest Episodes:

Turning Adversity into Opportunity: Lessons from Good Planet Foods CEO David Israel Oct 24, 2024

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David Israel, a successful serial entrepreneur, shares his journey of overcoming adversity and turning lemons into lemonade. From serving a prison sentence to founding successful companies like Pop Gourmet created from prison, taking the snack industry by storm. The idea originated from inmates who were making their popcorn taste good. Oprah became a raving fan of the product. David then founded and became CEO of Good Planet Foods, a plant-based foods company, driven by his passion for the environment and the negative impact of dairy farming. David's story is inspiring and full of valuable lessons. He emphasizes the importance of resilience, hard work, and not being afraid to take risks. The conversation also touches on David's experiences as a owner of nightclubs, a jewelry store, as well as his involvement in the pawn shop business. Overall, David's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the ability to overcome challenges. David shares stories of robberies and scams committed by others, highlighting the dangers of trusting the wrong people. He discusses his first trial and the appeal process, as well as the challenges his family faced throughout the legal proceedings. David also talks about starting a successful maintenance company while awaiting retrial, and the kindness and humanity he encountered in prison. David shares his experience in prison and how it changed his perception of people. He learned that there are smart individuals who made mistakes or lacked opportunities. Throughout his journey, David emphasizes the importance of transparency, trust, and helping others. Most importantly, David emphasizes to own your own story, or someone else will. Show sponsors: White Collar Support Group, prisonist.org, Autoplazadirect.com "Your Personal Car Concierge," Onlinereputation.solutions discount code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS.

Redemption Behind Bars, A Story Of Hope: Jason Holland Oct 17, 2024

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Can a teenager, who commits a murder, find redemption and purpose back in society 28 years later? In this episode of Nightmare Success, host Brent Cassity interviews Jason Holland, who shares his harrowing journey from a life of crime to serving 28 years in prison for a murder that he would give anything to be able to take back that night. Jason's story became a national story covered by Rolling Stone Magazine, a Documentary titled "Reckless Indifference," and Actor Charles Grodin wrote and directed a play about the teenagers convictions in Malibu. Jason reflects on his childhood, the incident that changed his life which was a drunk drug induced teenage backyard brawl where teenager Jimmy Farris lost his life. He discusses the dark place he went in his mind for years after he received the life sentence without parole. Jason literally grew up in prison. He discusses his transformation, the importance of finding purpose, and how he now helps others reintegrate into society with his work at Defy Ventures. Jason emphasizes the value of hope, community support, and the continuous journey of personal growth and redemption. Show sponsors: White Collar Support Group prisonist.org, register for the white collar conference Saturday October 19 whitecollarconference.com, Online Reputation Solutions discount coupon code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS, Autoplazadirect.com "Your Personal Car Concierge."

Prostate Cancer In Prison: CEO survives it all, The David Grosky Story Oct 10, 2024

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In this episode of Nightmare Success, host Brent Cassity speaks with David Grosky, a former CEO and attorney who faced a tumultuous journey from corporate success to incarceration. His case went from SEC violations to criminal charges. David shares his experiences of navigating the complexities of the legal system, the emotional toll of losing family members while in prison, and the importance of family support during challenging times. He discusses the pressures of plea bargaining, and the realities of prison life. Grosky also opens up about his battle with prostate cancer while in prison and the support he received from a local rabbi and the Hinda organization. After his release, Grosky found employment and became involved in volunteer work, helping incarcerated individuals and their families. David's story is one of resilience, personal growth, and the power of gratitude as he reflects on his journey and the lessons learned along the way. Show spsonsors: Online Reputation Solutions Discount Code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS, Autoplazadirect.com "Your Personal Car Concierge," White Collar Support Group prisonist.org, register for the white collar conference Oct. 19 at whitecollarconference.com

Finding Hope and Transformation in the midst of Desperation: Wesley Keziah Oct 03, 2024

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How does a man arrested 82 times transform his life to help others in a profound way? Wesley Keziah shares his journey from a troubled childhood to addiction and incarceration, and ultimately finding redemption and transformation through faith. He opens up about the challenges he faced growing up in a broken home, being molested, and the impact it had on his mental health. Wesley's addiction led him down a destructive path, resulting in multiple arrests and a cycle of incarceration. However, during his time in jail, he had a profound encounter with faith and found hope for a better future. Wesley's story is a testament to the power of resilience, redemption, and the possibility of overcoming even the darkest of circumstances. Wesley Keziah shares his journey from addiction and incarceration to founding Ground 40, a program that helps men transition out of prison and addiction. He emphasizes the power of faith and the transformative impact of Jesus in his life. Wesley's story is a testament to the possibility of change and the importance of community support. Show sponsors: White Collar Support Group prisonist.org, White Collar Conference October 19 register at whitecollarconference.com, Autoplazadirect.com "Your personal car concierge." and Online Reputation Solutions.

Committing to Change and Rebuilding a Life: The Portia Louder Story Sep 19, 2024

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In this episode of Nightmare Success, Brent Cassity interviews Portia Louder, author of the book Living Louder- A Compassionate Journey Through Federal Prison. Portia shares her incredible journey from a non-traditional upbringing to facing the challenges of teenage motherhood, addiction, and ultimately, a prison sentence for mortgage fraud. Portia's story is one of resilience, transformation, and the power of accountability as she navigates her way through life's obstacles and emerges stronger on the other side. In this conversation, Portia Louder shares her harrowing journey through the criminal justice system, detailing the immense pressure she faced leading up to her trial and sentencing. She discusses the emotional toll of incarceration, the challenges of adjusting to prison life, and the transformative experiences that ultimately led her to find purpose and resilience. Portia emphasizes the importance of personal growth and the power of choice, illustrating how her time in prison shaped her into a stronger individual. The conversation concludes with her reflections on reintegration into society and the newfound appreciation for life and connection with others. Show Sponsors: White Collar Support Group prisonist.org, register for the white collar conference October 19th at whitecollarconference.com, Autoplazadirect.com "Your Personal Car Concierge."

Out of Isolation and Into Community: White Collar Conference October 19 Sep 17, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Nightmare Success podcast, Brent Cassity and guests Jeff Grant, founder of White Collar Support Group, and Bill Livolsi, Deputy Director of White Collar Support Group discuss the upcoming White Collar Conference, emphasizing the importance of community and support for individuals affected by white collar crimes. They explore the challenges of reintegration into society, the significance of networking, and the diverse panels that will be featured at the conference, which aim to provide insights and inspiration for attendees to get to their next step along their journey. The conversation highlights personal stories of resilience and the collective journey towards healing and redemption. The groundbreaking event, Starting Over: Out of Isolation and into Community, will take place on Zoom on Saturday, October 19th, 2024 at 9am EST. The first ever conference by White Collar Justice Impacted People, for White Collar Justice Impacted People. Conference information, Schedule, and Registration https://whitecollarconference.com. To learn more about the White Collar Support Group: prisonist.org

From Nightmare to Success: Augie Ghilarducci's Comeback Story Asking for Help: The Path to a Successful Second Chance Sep 12, 2024

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How did Augie Ghilarducci survive and thrive after serving 13 years in Federal Prison? Augie Ghilarducci is the founder of the Second Opportunity Reentry Program, which provides courses focused on employment readiness, financial literacy, life skills, and reentry. He developed these programs while serving a 13-year sentence in the federal prison system. Augie's story is a true nightmare success comeback story, as he went from owning a successful financial planning firm to being convicted of white-collar crimes. Despite the challenges he faced, Augie turned his passion for helping others into a successful program that is now used in jails, prisons, and other outreach programs across the country. Augie shares his journey of going from incarceration to making a positive impact in the lives of others through education and reentry programs. He talks about how he got involved in community outreach while in prison and how that led to him creating programs for inmates to prepare for life after release. Augie emphasizes the importance of treating individuals as unique and providing them with the tools and support they need to succeed. He also highlights the significance of asking for help and being willing to learn from others who have gone through similar experiences. Show sponsors: White Collar Support Group prisonist.org register for the White Collar Conference October 19 at whitecollarconference.com, Autoplazadirect.com "Your Personal Car Concierge."

The Power of Belief: Kaysia Earley's Redemption Journey from Prison to Powerhouse Attorney Sep 05, 2024

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Could a person go from prison solitary confinement to respected attorney? Kaysia Earley did just that. She was arrested and charged with felony embezzlement during her senior year in college. She was working at a shoe store giving discounts on shoes to friends. Despite being four months pregnant, she was put in solitary confinement. However, this experience didn't break her, but made her stronger. She turned her life around, became a lawyer, and is now a zealous advocate for her clients. Kaysia's story is an inspiration that resilience and the power of determination can conquer so much. Kaysia Earley's journey from incarceration to becoming a successful attorney is a testament to the power of growth and redemption. She emphasizes that her past mistakes do not define her and that she was able to find herself and grow from her experiences. Kaysia's faith played a significant role in her transformation, as she had to wrestle with her faith and fear before deciding to pursue law school. Despite facing challenges and skepticism, Kaysia had to fight to finally be accepted by the Florida Bar. Her personal experience of being incarcerated gives her a unique perspective and empathy for her clients. Kaysia's story is a reminder that fear should not paralyze us and that faith can lead to incredible achievements. Kaysia has won numerous awards such as, Top 40 under 40 National Trial Lawyers Association, Top 10 Best Attorney Award, and numerous others. Show sponsors: White Collar Support Group - Register for the October 19th conference at whitecollarconference.com, Autoplazadirect.com "Your Personal Car Concierge."

From Wrongful Conviction to Freedom: Duane Williams' Story Aug 29, 2024

Show notes

Imagine waking up in your bed with police guns drawn at you. You have no idea why they are there because you are being wrongly accused of murder, a nightmare. Dwayne Williams shares his story of being wrongfully convicted and imprisoned for a crime he didn't commit. The nightmare began when he was arrested and charged with a double murder and arson. Throughout the trial, Dwayne faced numerous lies and false narratives that were presented as evidence against him. Despite his frustration and the lack of support from his defense attorney, Dwayne maintained his innocence. Ultimately, the jury reached a verdict, and Dwayne was found guilty. This conversation highlights the flaws in the criminal justice system and the devastating impact of wrongful convictions. After being wrongfully convicted of murder, Duane Williams spent 11 years in prison before his convictions were vacated. He took matters into his own hands and began reaching out to various organizations for help. With the support of the University of Michigan Innocence Clinic, Cooley Law School, and the Wayne County Conviction Integrity Unit, Duane's case gained traction. He was eventually released from prison, but the process of clearing his name is ongoing. Duane emphasizes the importance of integrity and honesty in the criminal justice system and calls for the removal of bad actors. He now works with Firefly Advocates, an innocence organization that provides legal support to those who are wrongfully convicted. Show Sponsors: White Collar Support Group prisonist.org START HERE, Autoplazadirect.com "Your Personal Car Concierge."

Finding Hope and Purpose after Prison: The William Sansing Story Aug 22, 2024

Show notes

How do you survive the nightmare of losing everything and going to prison? If you are William Sansing you spend the next two decades, post prison, advocating for people of disabilities, people directly impacted by the legal system, and people with substance use disorders. William received a Doctor of Philosophy in Counselor Education/ School Counseling and Guidance Services. He is the author of the book: Beyond Prison: Finding Second Chances through Grace, Resilience, and Community recounting William's journey from upstanding, church going citizen to a three-year stint in prison to a licensed thearapist, educator, and prison reform advocate. Dr. William Sansing shares his journey from a successful family farm to prison and his path to purpose. He discusses the challenges of reentering society after incarceration and the importance of community support. William found hope and purpose in helping others. His story highlights the need for understanding and compassion for individuals who have experienced the criminal justice system. He recounts how a therapist at Mississippi State University recommended to the university that he pursue a career in therapy, which led him to enroll in grad school and eventually work in counseling and rehabilitation. Despite the challenges he faced, Sansing emphasizes the importance of community support and finding one's core values. He believes in the power of storytelling and the need for a system that focuses on reconciliation rather than punishment. Show sponsors: White Collar Support Group prisonist.org START HERE, Autoplazadirect.com "Your personal car concierge."

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