Criminal Thinking Deterred

"I want someone to view me as this man." Jerry Dugan shares his story of struggle, accountability, and transformation. Jerry’s journey began with an aggravated battery charge that led to years inside the Department of Corrections, followed by a cycle of probation violations and addiction that kept him trapped in the system for decades.He opens up about the realities of incarceration, the mental and emotional toll it took, and the difficult road to breaking free from destructive patterns. The support from family and friends, along with the right therapeutic guidance, became essential in helping him rebuild his life. Now living a life marked by sobriety, stability, and purpose, Jerry reflects on the ongoing work of personal growth. From overcoming self-doubt to finding fulfillment in his career and family life, he offers honest insight into what it takes to sustain long-term change. If you struggle with alcoholism, please hear Jerry's story of recovery and healing.

In this podcast episode of Criminal Thinking Deterred, Tony Moore sits down with Marty Roddy, a recovering alcoholic with more than 26 years of sobriety, to discuss the realities of addiction, recovery, and the long road to lasting change.Marty shares his personal journey through alcohol addiction, including the environmental influences that shaped his drinking and the guilt and shame that followed. He explains how his faith in Christ became central to his recovery and why prayer remains essential to maintaining sobriety. Marty and Tony also discuss forgiveness and how unresolved shame can keep people trapped in destructive thinking patterns.Marty tells our audience about the vital role of community support and accountability, saying that recovery is not a solitary experience. He reflects on the daily practice of gratitude, making amends, and the steps that helped him rebuild his life. He also explains the importance of being a member of Alcoholics Anonymous in Charlottesville, VA, and how any alcoholic can f

In this episode of Criminal Thinking Deterred, Tony Moore sits down with Cavell Samuels, founder of Kingdom First, to explore the thinking patterns that keep people stuck in cycles of crime and addiction — and the mindset shifts that lead to real, lasting transformation.Cavell Samuels, Kingdom First Consulting, LLC, discusses his background in criminal justice, the transformative power of faith, and the importance of community and accountability in overcoming destructive behaviors. Cavell emphasizes the need for respect and understanding when working with individuals facing challenges, particularly in the context of addiction and recovery. He offers insights on navigating doubts and insecurities, recognizing the signs of destructive behavior, and the vital role of relationships in personal growth and healing. He and Tony bring a message of hope and encouragement for the holiday season, reminding listeners that Jesus is the answer to life's challenges.

In this podcast episode of Criminal Thinking Deterred, host Tony Moore speaks with Mike Williams, the president of City on a Hill, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, a nonprofit organization dedicated to community transformation and recovery. Tony and Mike discuss the mission of City on the Hill, which focuses on restoring hope and enhancing the quality of life for individuals and families. Mike shares his personal journey, the importance of love and acceptance in breaking cycles of shame, and the role of cognitive behavioral therapy in their programs. The conversation also highlights the significance of holistic healing, mentorship, and faith-based approaches in fostering community trust and support. Tony's own Criminal Thinking work and the classic Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs are also used to assess the types of therapy and needs of the client. Tony and Mike tell of encouraging work being done now and the plans of the organization. You will be encouraged and educated!

Our guest, Clem Richardson, CEO of Manna Behavioral Services, shares his inspiring journey from addiction to becoming a respected leader and mentor in his Milwaukee community. Clem opens up about how his past experiences shaped his mission to serve others, showing how true transformation begins with a change in mindset, not just behavior.Clem discusses the importance of reentry programs that focus on reshaping thought patterns and addressing the deep effects of trauma in addiction and recovery. His program, “Beyond the Block,” empowers individuals to rise above their circumstances, rebuild their lives, and embrace their full potential. Through practical support and compassionate guidance, Clem helps people find purpose and direction as they reintegrate into their communities.Podcast listeners will also hear Clem’s insights on self-care, relationship-building, and the essential role of faith and mentorship in sustaining long-term change. His message reminds us that community engagement isn’t just about helping

Tony Moore sits down with Sharmaine Harris, an inspiring individual who transformed his life from incarceration to empowerment. He tells podcast listeners about his journey of overcoming adversity through education, emphasizing how both formal and self-education served as pivotal tools in his transformation. He was pardoned by the Governor of Wisconsin, became a popular author, an in-demand speaker, and started his own business. Tony and Sharmain have a fascinating conversation about how education became the great equalizer for him, enabling him to rise above societal odds and redefine his purpose. Find out how Sharmain became a powerful catalyst for change and resilience, and how you can be, too, despite your difficult childhood and criminal record.

In this episode of Criminal Thinking Deterred, Tony Moore opens up about his powerful journey from incarceration to receiving a full pardon from the Wisconsin governor. That single decision not only restored his voting rights but also reignited his role in civic life and community leadership. Tony reflects on the personal transformation that made it possible, the responsibility that comes with a second chance, and the ripple effects of clemency on both individuals and society.You will hear an inspiring story of redemption and resilience. Grace and justice can work together.Tony Moore can be reached at Moore & Associates.

Incarceration and addiction taught our return guest, Juan Salazar, life-changing and eternal lessons. His path to redemption not only changed his life but also gave him a passion for helping others. This podcast episode shows the power of faith-based recovery, featuring Juan's heartfelt story of writing a letter that marked the turning point in his life. He and Tony discuss how his commitment to personal growth led him to become a youth outreach minister and a positive influence for others. In our conversation, they talk about the impact of programs like Living Free and Simple Steps Recovery at Heritage Baptist Church on individual transformation and community leadership. Juan's experiences as a peer mentor inspired him to assist others in reclaiming their lives with renewed purpose and determination. He and Tony address the challenges of counseling individuals in need of recovery versus those who support the ministry. Juan Salazar can be reached at his church. You can also reach him at his business,

Once trapped in a cycle of crime, Tony Moore found himself at a crossroads, yearning for change. Through the guiding power of the Four Ps—prayer, performance, patience, and planning—he charted a new course, leaving behind a life that no longer served him. This episode is an intimate recounting of his development, highlighting how these principles not only aided his rehabilitation but also empowered him to pursue higher education, mend broken relationships, and ultimately, find redemption. Tony emphasizes the critical role of structured planning and disciplined performance in overcoming past obstacles. Returning to school at 35 to earn a master's degree in human services was a pivotal step that opened doors to new opportunities, including founding businesses in clinical counseling. This episode sheds light on the necessity of confronting and reshaping criminal thinking patterns, underscoring the courage required to face fears and discomfort head-on. Listeners can get more resources through the Criminal Thi

From gang life to godly purpose—Juan Salazar shares his raw and redemptive journey from repeated incarceration to becoming a youth minister at Heritage Baptist Church (Kenosha, WI). In this compelling podcast episode, Juan opens up about how jail time, family support, and faith in Christ turned his life around. Now, he's on a mission to reach at-risk youth before it’s too late. Hear how he’s mentoring the next generation and calling the church to step up in their communities.Real stories. Real transformation. Real hope. This is a podcast you do not want to miss. Find Juan Salzar at www.pikecreekexterminating.com and www.heritagebaptistkenosha.com/.

In this powerful episode, returning guest Mike Williams shares his personal journey from abandonment and rejection to becoming a mentor for troubled youth. Growing up without parental support, Mike struggled with feelings of unworthiness—until his life took a transformative turn through faith.Now working alongside host Tony Moore, Mike has become an expert in guiding at-risk youth away from criminal behavior. He delves into the Criminal Thinking Errors model, explaining why people often laugh at these patterns—because they recognize them in themselves. He also stresses the importance of having a backup plan when life takes an unexpected turn.Mike reveals how early childhood, particularly between the ages of 3 to 4 and 5 to 7, is when criminal thinking begins to take root, shaping future behaviors. He also breaks down The Four Core Needs in Life and The Seven Desires God Has Placed in Us, showing how these concepts play a crucial role in behavioral therapy.If you or someone you know struggles with criminal thi

In this powerful solo episode, host Tony Moore deeply discusses the Five Deterrents of Criminal Thinking, practical steps to help break harmful thought patterns and avoid life-altering mistakes:1. Consider the Immediate Consequences2. Think About Who Gets Hurt3. Plan Ahead & Choose Wisely4. Examine Your Conscience Daily5. Let It Go—Don’t Dwell on ItTony shares his struggles with criminal thinking and how applying these deterrents can prevent actions that may hurt others and jeopardize your freedom.Want to learn more? Visit the highly acclaimed Criminal Thinking ⁠website⁠ for deeper insights.

Our podcast took a high-tech turn as we welcomed guests, David Whitesock, Founder/CEO, and Johanna Dolan, COO, from Commonly Well. It was a fascinating discussion of how they are using "Recovery Intelligence" in treating substance abuse. "Recovery Intelligence" takes a snapshot of the patient's current recovery status and moves them intelligently to take the correct steps and to plan appropriately. Another Commonly Well treatment is the "Recovery Capital Index" which is a tool that measures an individual's internal and external resources necessary to initiate and sustain recovery. Cell phones are also innovatively used to guide and monitor the patient in the substance abuse recovery treatment! Commonly Well is leading the way in treating people in need of recovery. Tony's conversation with our guests will fascinate you.

"The challenge is to be the new me," says our guest, Christopher Waggoner, a recovering cocaine addict. He went through the Moore & Associates drug recovery program and wants people to know that if he can be sober, so can you. Christopher has battled addiction since his early childhood. He was sexually and physically abused and was in the foster care system. All of this set the table for cocaine addiction. After being incarcerated, Christopher decided it was time to get clean. He tells us how he has stayed clean and how you can be sober during the holidays. (It can be done!) He is also a Certified Peer Specialist and a drug addiction recovery advocate i his community. If you are addicted to cocaine or know someone who is, listen to this podcast.

"This (drug testing) will help you get your freedom," says our podcast guest, Ms. Minata Saddy, CEO and Founder, NYS Diagnostics & Supply. "We have a quick turnaround time for different kinds of testing." Ms. Saddy explains to Tony Moore the most accurate types of drug testing. Rapid results are also useful to the recovery community as it will show that the patient in recovery is reliable and staying clean. "They can decide to be healthy," Ms. Saddy continues. She also explains how being on medications can bias a result. If you have ever wondered how drug testing plays a role in addiction recovery, this podcast will definitely enlighten you. For more information, visit the Criminal Thinking website for her blog.

"The holiday season has begun," says our host, Tony Moore, Moore & Associates. "The recovery community tends to be forgotten during this time." "You have to maintain awareness of people around you," Tony continues. He discusses the 4 P's (from his book). He also talks about maintaining an awareness of people around you, friends, family, and co-workers who may not be as far along on the recovery trail as yourself. You can perform positive habits from volunteering to breathing exercises. (TV shows can even be negative so it's good to not watch shows that may trigger substance abuse.) Tony gives time-tested advice that anyone who is recovering and dreading the holidays needs to hear. It's both educational and encouraging. If you are concerned about the holidays, please listen to this podcast.

It sounds pretty ominous. Kids are starting earlier, such as middle school, in doing drugs and joining gangs. But, as our guest, Lloyd Lewin Director of Outreach & Schools, Boys & Girls Club, Kenosha WI, tells us, there is hope. "Yes, they are starting younger," Mr. Lewin says, "but if educate them, have parental involvement, and work with the schools, we can steer them away." The BGC has partnered with several organizations and now provides drug addiction and gang involvement prevention. Tony Moore and Mr. Lewin discuss the desire of kids to belong to something and that by high school they can be resistant to change. Yet, the club and its leaders present a positive way to succeed and stay away from drugs and gangs. No child is sentenced to a life of addiction or gangs. There are better ways, but it takes work (and funding) to get it done.

"A person's whole life can be embedded in nicotine use," says our returning guest, Dr. George Kolodner, from Triple Track Treatment. Dr. Kolodner discusses the four smoking triggers and the types of therapy and support groups that can help addicts end their dependency on smoking. Relapse, of course, can occur, but if a patient continues with the treatment program, they can recover and quit smoking entirely. Dr. Kolodner and Tony Moore also discuss the dangers of vaping and the surprising role coffee plays in smoking cessation. If you are a smoker or know a smoker who wants to quit, there is hope. This podcast is for you.

Too often, substance abusers are treated for their addiction but not treated for their mental health. So, once they return home sober, they are still haunted by their mental health issues. Then, they hear voices or experience other severe mental health issues and to treat it, they return to the substance they were abusing. Our host, Tony Moore, discusses this terrible, never-ending cycle and how it can be broken. The stigma of mental health issues can impede people from getting treatment. Tony tells about how mental health and substance abuse treatment go hand-in-hand. Please join Tony Moore (⁠mooreandassociates.biz⁠) for this important podcast.

"Smoking is no longer cool," says our guest, Dr. George Kolodner, Founder/Medical Director, Triple Track Treatment, Washington, D.C. "However, it is still highly addictive and the pain from quitting smoking can be the toughest." Dr. Kolodner tells how smoking cessation has been proven to work. However, they have to battle the wealthy tobacco companies. Tony tells him how he had to stop smoking but it took much longer than drugs or alcohol. There is also a fascinating discussion about process addictions and oral fixations. We will definitely have Dr. Kolodner back for future episodes! Tony also told us about the upcoming "Minority Mental Health Awareness Month" event.