Omar Calvillo - Podcast Details

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From Wrong To Strong"Overcoming Addiction & Helping Others Do The Same" w/ Bret LawrenceIn this episode of the 'From Wrong to Strong Podcast,' host Omar Calvillo sits down with Bret Lawrence, a man who has faced the darkest shadows of addiction and emerged into the light of redemption. Brett shares his harrowing story of drug addiction, multiple incarcerations, and near-death experiences. He recounts his upbringing in a turbulent household, his descent into drug dependency, and the trials he faced in prison. More importantly, Brett reveals how a moment of divine intervention and a newfound faith in Jesus Christ enabled him to turn his life around. Now a recovery coach, Brett uses...2025-07-141h 04

From Wrong To StrongWeek #26 - Wrong 2 Strong "2-Minute Devotional" w/ Ann CalvilloAnn Calvillo shares a two-minute devotional inspired by Revelation 2, where she reflects on how the Lord has been speaking to her heart. The scripture highlights both the strengths and the shortcoming of the Church of Ephesus, particularly their abandonment of their first love, Christ. Ann emphasizes the importance of not just performing good works but also maintaining a heartfelt relationship with Jesus. She calls for self-examination, repentance, and a return to the initial fervor and love for Christ.Send us a textSupport the showBecome a supporter:https://www.buzzsprout.com/2049675...2025-07-0204 min

From Wrong To Strong"The Making of a Chaplain": Jim Kirkland's Calling & MissionIn this episode of 'Wrong to Strong Chicago,' host Omar Calvillo interviews Jim Kirkland, the Executive Director of Christian Chaplains and Coaching. Jim shares his personal journey, including a transformative encounter with the Holy Spirit at a men's retreat and his initial reluctance to engage in prison ministry, which eventually became a significant part of his calling. Jim discusses his experience meeting and ministering to some of the most hardened prisoners and seeing their lives change through faith in Jesus Christ. Jim also outlines the mission and diverse areas of Christian Chaplains and Coaching, sharing insights on how...2025-06-2756 min

From Wrong To StrongWeek #24 - Wrong 2 Strong "2 Minute Devotional" w/ Omar CalvilloIn this episode of the Wrong to Strong two Minute Devotional, Omar Calvillo wishes all fathers a happy Father's Day and congratulates recent graduates, including his own son. Omar reflects on the importance of fathers encouraging, comforting, and urging their children to live lives worthy of God. He shares a passage from 1 Thessalonians 2:11-12, emphasizing that fathers should help their children surpass them by fostering a close relationship with God. The message aims to inspire fathers to be active and supportive in their children's lives.Send us a textSupport the showBecome...2025-06-1803 min

From Wrong To Strong"Unshackled Building Bridges": The Journey Begins - w/ Ronnie Carrasquillo & Gilbert MoralesIn this episode, Omar Calvillo welcomes Gilbert Morales and Ronnie Carrasquillo to discuss the launch of their new podcast and non-profit organization, "Unshackled Building Bridges." Gilbert and Ronnie share their personal journeys through trauma, incarceration, and eventual redemption. The episode covers their vision for helping individuals and families affected by violence and incarceration, as well as their determination to highlight stories of struggle, strength, and faith. The conversation emphasizes the importance of love, community support, and finding purpose in helping others. Tune in to hear how lives are being transformed one story at a time.https://ubborg...2025-06-0956 min

From Wrong To Strong"Parents Imprisoned: The Cycle Continues" - The Life of Michael CrosbyIn this episode of Wrong to Strong, host Omar Calvillo interviews Michael Crosby, who shares his remarkable journey from a troubled childhood marked by parental imprisonment, addiction, and personal struggles with substance abuse to a transformative relationship with Jesus Christ. Raised amidst chaos and addiction in Indiana, Michael's life spirals into drug addiction and crime until a series of divine interventions lead him to seek God. Michael's story unfolds as he embraces faith, cleans up his life, and pursues theological education at Moody Bible Institute. This episode explores themes of redemption, faith, and the transformative power of God's love...2025-06-021h 12

From Wrong To Strong"From Chains To Change": Scott Morgan's Path to Freedom & RecoveryIn this powerful episode of Wrong to Strong Chicago, host Omar Calvillo welcomes Scott Morgan to share his incredible story of transformation. Raised in the tough streets of Chicago and enduring a turbulent life filled with addiction, violence, and incarceration, Scott's journey to finding faith and redemption is nothing short of inspiring. From the traumas of childhood abuse and the struggles with substance abuse to his eventual breakthrough and spiritual awakening, Scott takes us through his life's darkest moments and his path to recovery. Along the way, Scott shines a light on the importance of helping others, as evidenced...2025-05-051h 51

From Wrong To Strong"Rebuilding Lives" - A Path from Wrong To Strong w/ Ben Endress & Ronnie CarrasquilloFrom Prison to Purpose: Ben Endress' Journey to Supporting Ex-OffendersThis is part 5 of a 5 part interview series highlighting the amazing work that is happening in Kewanee, Illinois, in regards to prison ministry and re-entry initiatives.In this episode of 'Wrong to Strong,' host Omar Calvillo converses with Ben Endress, a successful business owner, and Ronnie Carrasquillo about their impactful prison ministry work. Ben shares how a poignant resume from a man with seven felonies ignited his mission to give ex-offenders a second chance. He recounts his journey from hiring a transformed inmate to developing...2025-04-2129 min

From Wrong To Strong"From Gang Life to God's Grace" w/ Paul BosankoIn this powerful episode of 'Wrong to Strong Chicago,' host Omar Calvillo speaks with Paul Bosanko, who shares his incredible journey from a turbulent childhood and life of crime to finding redemption through faith in Jesus Christ. Paul's story begins with his challenging upbringing in South Chicago, marked by severe physical abuse and subsequent entanglement in gang life. After spending over three decades in prison, including 13 years in Supermax, Paul experienced a profound spiritual awakening. Now dedicated to helping former inmates reintegrate into society, Paul serves as the Programs Manager at Finn Well Ministries. Tune in to hear...2025-04-1453 min

From Wrong To StrongWeek #14 - Wrong 2 Strong "2 Minute Devotional" w/ Omar CalvilloJoin Omar Calvillo in this week's episode of the Wrong to Strong 2-Minute Devotional as he explores the question from Genesis 18, 'Is anything too hard for the Lord?' Omar reflects on the story of Abraham and Sarah to highlight God's unmatched power and the essence of unwavering faith. This devotional encourages believers to trust in God's promises, no matter how impossible circumstances may seem. Tune in for a dose of inspiration and encouragement to strengthen your journey of faith.Send us a textSupport the showBecome a supporter:https://www...2025-04-0904 min

From Wrong To Strong"Kewanee's Call" - Creating Pathways to Restoration w/ Gigi Brown & Ronnie CarrasquilloThis is part 3 of a 5 part interview series highlighting the amazing work that is happening in Kewanee, Illinois in regards to prison ministry and re-entry initiatives. Join Omar Calvillo in this compelling episode of Wrong to Strong Chicago, where he speaks with Greta (Gigi) and Ronnie about the transformative power of prison ministry in Kewanee, Illinois. Discover how volunteers from Hill Church and other local ministries help reintegrate formerly incarcerated individuals into society, providing spiritual, emotional, and material support. Listen to the impactful stories of redemption, hope, and perseverance as these individuals share their experiences. Learn how i...2025-04-0744 min

From Wrong To StrongEp.2 "From Prison to Our Home" in Kewanee, IL. w/ Fred Timmons & Chance GillespieThis is part 2 of a 5 part interview series highlighting the amazing work that is happening in Kewanee, Illinois in regards to prison ministry and re-entry initiatives. In this powerful episode of the Wrong to Strong Podcast, host Omar Calvillo is joined by special guests Fred and Chance for a heartfelt discussion on the redemptive journey from incarceration to reintegration. Fred shares his experiences growing up in Illinois, facing life challenges, and the impact of a supportive community on his re-entry into society after serving nearly 30 years in prison. Chance, along with his wife, opens up about their c...2025-03-3150 min

From Wrong To StrongEp.1 "Building Bridges from Prison to Community in Kewanee, IL." w/ Michelle Gillespie & Ronnie CarrasquilloThis is part 1 of a 5 part interview series highlighting the amazing work that is happening in Kewanee, Illinois in regards to prison ministry and re-entry initiatives. In this series we will hear from former inmates, prison ministry volunteers and a business owner who are involved in the work which is taking place out there.In this episode, Omar is joined by Michelle Gillespie and Ronnie Carrasquillo to discuss their incredible work in helping formerly incarcerated individuals reintegrate into society. Ronnie was recently released from prison after having served over 47 years straight. Witness first-hand accounts of redemption, community...2025-03-2434 min

From Wrong To Strong"Celebrating 100 Podcast Episodes" - Unveiling Our First Recording Ever w/ Moses CalvilloIn this special 100th episode of the 'Wrong to Strong Chicago' podcast, host Omar Calvillo celebrates the milestone along with his youngest son, Moses Omar Calvillo. Omar introduces the episode by expressing gratitude to their listeners and supporters, highlighting the show's journey and thanking past guests who have shared their stories. The episode features the very first recording ever made for the podcast, an unscripted and humorous telephone interaction between Omar, his wife, and his children, Moses and Angelina. The recording showcases Moses' creative storytelling as he adopts a character voice and creates a spontaneous narrative. The episode provides...2025-03-1727 min

From Wrong To StrongA Wrong to Strong Marriage: Celebrating 20 Years Together w/ Ann & Omar CalvilloJoin Ann and Omar Calvillo as they celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary. In this special episode, they share their journey, provide advice for married couples facing challenges, and dive into thoughtful questions about marriage, love, and faith. Listen to them as they reflect on their past, discuss their growth, and highlight the importance of faith, communication, and prayer in building a strong marriage. Tune in to hear their inspiring story and gain valuable insights for maintaining a godly marriage.Send us a textSupport the showBecome a supporter:https://www.buzzsprout...2025-02-241h 10

From Wrong To Strong"Surviving Angola Prison" - Overcoming Life Sentences w/ Reginald Watts & Arthur RhodesJoin host Omar Calvillo in this powerful episode of Wrong to Strong Chicago, where special guests Reginald Watts and Arthur Rhodes recount their incredible journeys from incarceration to redemption. Growing up amidst hardship in New Orleans, both men navigated the perilous streets and found themselves behind bars in the infamous Angola Prison. Their lives took a transformative turn through faith, education, and personal determination. They both had life sentence's and they were told that they would end up dying in prison. Hear how these former inmates are now leading prison ministries and helping transform the lives of others. This...2025-02-1055 min

From Wrong To Strong"Healing After Hardship" - Ismael Centenero on Addiction, Trauma & New LifeJoin host Omar Calvillo as he sits down with Ismael Centenero in another compelling episode of 'Wrong to Strong Chicago.' This podcast delves deep into Ismael’s life, from growing up in the crime-ridden streets of Chicago to getting involved in gang life, and battling addiction. Ismael shares his story of hardship, including being left for dead with a traumatic brain injury, the loss of loved ones, and his struggle to overcome addiction. He also talks about his journey to faith, the significance of community, and how he rediscovered his purpose through God's guidance. Tune in to hear an...2025-01-271h 39

From Wrong To StrongWeek #1 - Wrong 2 Strong "2 Minute Devotional" w/ Omar CalvilloI am excited to announce that we are launching a new segment on our podcast titled "Wrong To Strong" 2 Minute weekly devotional. Last year we released this devotional on video format only and all 53 weeks of 2024 are available on YouTube. We decided that in this new year we will add this segment for our audio listeners to experience as well. Each Wednesday we will be blessed to have a new guest share a powerful scripture and a word of encouragement to ignite your spirit and fuel your journey of faith. Let these messages inspire and strengthen you as yo...2025-01-0904 min

From Wrong To Strong"Drowning in Darkness to Water Walkers" w/ Jaime CazaresIn this episode of 'Wrong to Strong Chicago,' host Omar Calvillo welcomes Pastor Jaime Cazares, who shares his extraordinary journey from a troubled past to a life filled with faith and redemption. Growing up in the tough streets of Hammond, Indiana, and Tucson, Arizona, Jaime faced numerous challenges, including homelessness, life of crime, drug addiction and time in prison. Despite these hardships, he found hope and transformation through his faith in God. Pastor Jaime along with his wife, now dedicate their lives' to helping others through their ministry, "Water Walkers Worldwide", and offer practical advice on how to...2024-12-302h 17

From Wrong To Strong"Addiction, To Prison, to MMA Champion": A Story of Triumph - w/ "Mr. Unbreakable" Adam VigilJoin host Omar Calvillo in an inspiring podcast episode as he interviews Adam Vigil, an MMA fighter with a powerful story of redemption. Raised amidst the crime and drug culture of Denver, Colorado, Adam shares his journey from a troubled youth, marked by gang involvement and addiction, to becoming a world champion fighter. His transformation, driven by faith in Jesus Christ and the support of ministry initiatives, highlights the struggles of overcoming addiction and finding purpose. This episode delves deep into Adam's early life, his battles with addiction, experiences in the criminal justice system, and his remarkable recovery and...2024-12-161h 09

From Wrong To Strong"Redeeming The Bloodline" - Breaking Generational Strongholds w/ Carlos AlvarezThis podcast episode, hosted by Omar Calvillo, features Carlos Alvarez sharing his transformative journey from the violent streets of Chicago to finding redemption through faith. Growing up in a gang-influenced environment, Carlos talks about his struggles with crime, drugs, and violence. He describes his experiences with family trauma, including his father's near-death beating and his own critical injury from a shooting. Despite facing numerous challenges, Carlos found hope and strength, eventually turning his life around. Through the support of his church community and his growing faith, Carlos was able to influence his family positively, leading them towards a path...2024-12-022h 05

From Wrong To Strong"Rejection, Betrayal & Redemption" - Embracing A New Life Purpose w/ Gil LopezIn this heartfelt podcast episode, host Omar Calvillo welcomes guest Gil Lopez, who shares his powerful story of transformation from a life of gang violence and incarceration to finding hope and purpose. Raised in the tough streets of Chicago, Gil recounts his struggles, including family neglect, gang involvement, and multiple imprisonments, culminating in a significant federal prison sentence. Through the support of a transformative jail program and a deepening faith in God, Gil's life takes a remarkable turn. Now free, he focuses on building a better future and helping others find their way out of a dark past. His...2024-11-2554 min

From Wrong To Strong"The Path to Healing" - From Abuse, Addiction, and Cancer w/ Rik ValdezIn this episode of 'Wrong to Strong Chicago', host Omar Calvillo interviews Pastor Rick Valdez from Cross Com Ministries. Pastor Rick shares his powerful story of transformation, from growing up in the tough streets of Chicago to dealing with childhood abuse, gang involvement, and a life of drugs and rock and roll. He details his journey of repentance and surrender to God, leading to his significant roles in various ministries. Rick describes a miraculous turning point in his battle with stage 4 metastatic cancer, emphasizing the power of faith, healing, and his commitment to making Jesus famous. The episode underscores...2024-11-191h 52

From Wrong To Strong"From Wrong To Strong" - #official #music - Produced by M.C. DaNovaCheck out the official song "From Wrong To Strong," a heartfelt gift to the powerful Chicago Ministry led by Brother Omar Calvillo. This song was inspired by the transformative testimony shared by Brother Omar on his Christian podcast, also titled "Wrong To Strong Chicago," where he opens up about his life of crime, incarceration, and the tragic loss he experienced in Chicago's Pilsen neighborhood—a story that deeply resonated with M.C. DaNova. Produced by M.C. DaNova of Conscious Culture NOW! / Cultura Consciente ¡AHORA! based in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, USA this song is more than just...2024-11-0804 min

From Wrong To Strong"Violence to Visionary" - Unleashing Gifts of Hope and Creativity w/ Anthony SpauldingIn this episode of 'Wrong to Strong Chicago,' host Omar Calvillo welcomes guest Anthony Spaulding, a former gang member who turned his life around after being sentenced to natural life for double murder. Raised in the crime-afflicted streets of Chicago, the "Wild Hundreds", Anthony shares his transformation from a life of violence and incarceration to one filled with hope, faith, and perseverance. He talks about the impact of his upbringing, the allure and eventual disillusionment with gang life, and how he found solace and purpose through Christ. Anthony now focuses on giving back to the community through various...2024-11-041h 16

From Wrong To Strong"Wrongfully Convicted, Freely Forgiven" - The Ricky Irby ExperienceThis podcast episode hosted by Omar Calvillo features Ricky Irby, who shares his transformative journey from growing up in Waukegan, Illinois to experiencing wrongful conviction and eventual redemption. Convicted for the death of his child due to a mishap with tainted formula, Ricky served 35 years of an 80-year sentence. Despite his wrongful incarceration, he found faith, overcame his drug addiction, and learned forgiveness. His spiritual transformation led him to a path of service within the prison community and beyond, becoming involved with the Legacy Reentry Foundation after his release in March of 2024. Ricky's story is one of hope, strength...2024-10-141h 13

From Wrong To Strong"From Pilsen, To Prison, I've Risen!" - Dionne Garcia interviewIn this compelling episode host Omar Calvillo introduces Dionne Garcia, who narrates her journey from growing up amidst gang violence in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood in the 80's & 90's, to her eventual redemption years later. Dionne details her early involvement in gangs, teenage pregnancy, significant role in drug dealing, and dramatic arrest by U.S. Marshals, leading to her fugitive life in Mexico with her children. Despite the challenges of reinventing her life abroad and the eventual capture and extradition to the United States, Dionne’s faith grew stronger. She describes a moment of lack and frustration in prison whic...2024-10-022h 33

From Wrong To Strong"The Injustice of the Justice System" w/ Jimmy SotoOn December 14, 2023 Jimmy Soto and his cousin David Ayala were released from Stateville Correctional Center after a forty-two-year-long fight to prove their innocence. At the time of his release, Soto was the longest-serving wrongfully convicted prisoner in Illinois history. A Cook County judge vacated Soto’s sentence, stating that neither he nor Ayala received adequate counsel during the initial trial. Jimmy gives a detailed explanation of all the legal issues that were wrong with this case from the beginning and how it shouldn't have taken forty-two years to prove their innocence. Soto was convicted in 1981 after prosecutors said he com...2024-09-161h 54

From Wrong To Strong"God Behind Bars" - Reaching the Unreachable w/ Anthony ConsiglioIn this podcast, Omar Calvillo from Chicago hosts Anthony Consiglio, Senior Director of Operations for 'God Behind Bars,' an organization dedicated to introducing inmates to Jesus and connecting them to the local church. Anthony shares his personal journey from a promising baseball career that was derailed due to injury, leading to a period of substance abuse and reckless behavior, to finding redemption and purpose through faith in Christ. They discuss 'God Behind Bars,' which operates in 22 states through 68 in-person campuses and a revolutionary app, Pando, reaching millions of inmates annually. The conversation highlights powerful testimonies, family reunification...2024-09-0240 min

From Wrong To Strong"He Makes Even His Enemies To Be at Peace With Him" w/ Daniel RiveraIn this compelling podcast, host Omar Calvillo interviews Pastor Daniel Rivera, who narrates his profound journey from gang involvement in Chicago and Gary, Indiana, to redemption and ministry. After a tragic incident leading to incarceration, Rivera encountered faith in Christ through a fellow inmate, which became the turning point in his life. At this point he had been incarcerated nine years already and had established himself at the top of his gangs leadership. He was torn as to what to do as he knew that God wanted him to walk away from this lifestyle. One scripture in particular would...2024-08-191h 47

From Wrong To Strong"From Incarceration to Inspiration" - Louis Dooley’s Life TransformationJoin host Omar Calvillo in this inspiring podcast episode featuring Louis Dooley. Once entrenched in the hardships of drug dealing, crime and violence, Louis shares his incredible life transformation through faith and perseverance. As a young man he gets arrested and sentenced to life in prison plus a hundred years. Right when he feels that his life is over is just the moment when he truly begins to live. Listen to Louis share about his childhood upbringing, the hardships of being bi-racial, the loss of his father at a young age, and the defining moments which changed the trajectory...2024-08-051h 38