In 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 themes of redemption, faith, perseverance, and the transformative power of God's love.

https://www.crosscomministries.org/

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Check 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.
https://youtu.be/3ej1GLxb4fA?si=F7nzGM7Wo9XxxH3m

(Full music video available on YouTube as well! - Go check it out!)
https://youtu.be/UdhsW3LDzqM?si=Z-InKaDyFw82njCn

Produced by M.C. DaNova of Conscious Culture NOW! / Cultura Consciente ¡AHORA! based in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, USA this song is more than just an expression—it's a powerful declaration of faith, redemption, and the life-changing power of the HOLY GHOST.
www.youtube.com/@DominaloConCRISTO

M.C. DaNova, an ordained Pentecostal Pastor with deep roots in the Little Village community, was profoundly moved by Brother Omar's story. As someone who grew up in the same neighborhood, M.C. DaNova felt a divine calling to create this artistic piece as an evangelistic tool that would speak to the hearts of those struggling with crime, addiction, violence, and hopelessness.

The song was created through prayer, supplication, and collaboration between Brother Omar and M.C. DaNova, combining their shared vision of showcasing the transformative power of repentance and being born again in KING JESUS CHRIST. Brother Omar personally chose this version of the song, and with GOD's guidance, M.C. DaNova worked tirelessly, using his 10 years of audiovisual production experience and AI technology, to bring this vision to life.

Through this powerful song, we aim to promote peace, unity, and the hope of transformation that comes through KING JESUS CHRIST.

Join us on this journey of faith and redemption. Listen to the song and be inspired to know that no matter where you've been, through repentance and obedience, you too can go From Wrong To Strong.

Interested Inquiries contact https://faaaith.org/
"LET'S WORK IT OUT!!!"
https://faaaith.org/subscription

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/from-wrong-to-strong-official-music-produced-by-m-c-danova/id1648222902?i=1000676150037

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In 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 charitable works and creative projects, including writing books, plays, and songs. His message emphasizes the importance of never giving up and trusting in God's plan for redemption and renewal.

www.anthonyspaulding.com

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This episodes feature James L. Capra, former D.E.A. Chief of Global Operations. A veteran of law enforcement and military service, discussing his life journey from overcoming crime and violence to becoming a CEO. Capra highlights the profound influence of his father, faith, and supportive wife in shaping his career and personal growth. The narrative underscores themes of hope, integrity, and perseverance, with detailed accounts of leadership, the challenges of law enforcement, facing temptations, and maintaining a strong moral compass. Additionally, it explores the intricate balance between professional duties and family life, emphasizing intentional living, faith's pivotal role, and the power of a supportive spouse. Personal anecdotes of overcoming adversities, staying true to one's values, and finding new beginnings are recurrent, providing listeners with valuable lessons on the importance of forgiveness, accountability, and the sanctuary of a loving home.

www.frontlineleadershipgroup.com

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This 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, faith, and resilience, turning his life from anger and addiction to one of peace and purpose.

https://www.lockuptolegacy.org/

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In 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 which eventually led her to founding a ministry called 'Cheerful Givers,' which supported new inmates with a care package, and her role in various other spiritual activities. After her release, she faced the complexities of reuniting with her children and adapting to life post-incarceration while continuing to build a spiritual community. The episode concludes with a heartfelt prayer and an invitation to embrace faith in the only One who can save and for personal transformation in the lives of those she loves.

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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW! This is the first interview that David Ayala and Jimmy Soto have done together since they were exonerated and released from prison back in December of 2023. They share their experiences with wrongful imprisonment, personal growth, and the transformation they have undergone since their release. They reflect on the importance of forgiveness and change. They also emphasize the need for community support, positive role models, and the role of the church in rehabilitation. They share their aspirations and bucket lists, including traveling, parachuting, and enjoying simple pleasures like decorating a Christmas tree. The discussion highlights the trauma of incarceration, the challenges of reintegration, and the importance of mentoring to help others avoid the same fate. They also touch on the impact of gentrification, cultural pride, and the necessity of peaceful celebrations. This concludes with insights on the significance of hospitality, gratitude, and a closing prayer for positive change and family prosperity.

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On 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 committed a double murder of a young couple. Soto was convicted despite there being no eyewitnesses and no physical evidence tying him to the crime.
On this podcast Jimmy shares how life was growing up on the southside of Chicago. In a strong family oriented household were love and support for one another was a staple. He was always fond of learning, education and this helped him even during his time of incarceration. He ends up getting a job in the law library and begins studying the law for himself. He gains a reputation of being what some call a "jail house lawyer", but he prefers the term "prisoner advocate who fights for human rights." While incarcerated he helps many men get new trials, sentence reductions and some even get exonerated with his legal help. While he is helping others find freedom, he begins to fall into despair on why he can't help himself find the freedom he know he deserves and truly desires. He gets a letter in the mail one day from an unknown person, with a story that emphasizes that "God is always right, and always on time." Tune in to hear the rest of this amazing story and hope, faith and resilience.

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