From Rikers Island to Power: Glenn’s Story of Survival and Redemption

Glenn E. Martin doesn't just talk about change—he forces it. From getting stabbed at 16 on Rikers Island to forcing NYC to commit to closing Rikers, Glen's journey is a masterclass in transforming pain into power.In this raw conversation, Glenn breaks down:The moment a correction officer he used to stick up jewelry stores with ended up guarding him on RikersHow he survived gladiator school at 16 and what lesson the system accidentally taught himThe day Senator Jeff Sessions called him a "blind squirrel" who found a nut—and why that insult birthed JustLeadership USAThe tactical ambush that humiliated the NYC mayor and pushed the Rikers closure campaign forwardWhy he walked away from a $180K salary to build his own organizationHow he built 92 properties in 7 years providing housing for formerly incarcerated peopleThe professionalization of advocacy—and why taking white philanthropic money often means giving up Black and Brown powerHis new non-profit that cuts checks to formerly incarcerated entrepreneurs (no tap dancing, no Shark Tank)The crowdfunding model that's about to democratize his real estate investment strategyGlenn on navigating elite spaces while never forgetting where he came from, the thin line between predator and prey, and why autumn isn't winter yet.Hosted by: Marv & Tone (Anthony Payton)Topics: Criminal Justice Reform, Re-entry Advocacy, Real Estate Investment, Rikers Island, Policy Change, Entrepreneurship, BRRR Method, Formerly Incarcerated Leadership