“I’m a stupid idiot who stole some money.” Curtis Roberts was sentenced to 50 years to life, under the three strikes law, for committing three non-violent robberies. Over the years he has struggled to maintain a sense of hope in a situation many would consider untenable.
Big thanks to Curtis Roberts for sharing his story. And shout-outs to the many guys who showed up in yard talk: Michael Hudley, Stacy Bullock, Douglas Abado. Kevin Schrubb, Fanon Figgers Demitris McGee, James King, Mark Barger, Richard “Wembe” Johnson, Daniel Smith, John “Yahya” Johnson, Forrest Jones, Juan Haynes, Tommy Wickerd, Robert Richie (sang Amazing Grace).
Special thanks to Richie Morris, Dwight Krizman & Charles Spencer of Quentin Blue for performing "Trying to Carry On."
Ear Hustle is produced by Nigel Poor, Antwan Williams and Earlonne Woods with consulting editor Curtis Fox, outside production advisor Pat Mesiti-Miller and executive producer Julie Shapiro. Sound design in this episode is by Earlonne Woods, with contributing beats from Antwan Williams, JB Burton and David Jassy.
Find out more about the show at earhustlesq.com, including how to send us a question (by postcard) that might get answered in a future episode. Ear Hustle is a proud member of Radiotopia, from PRX.
Lastly! Yet more thanks to Mail Chimp and Squarespace for supporting the show.
Gabrieleen Silver Queen
Is Your Name Alfredo?
Boots and Max
15 Minutes
Ear Hustle Extra: Making Trouble
Ear Hustle Extra: A Call from Sacramento
Ear Hustle Presents: Written Off
Camp Grace
Tray, Tumbler, Spork
Yard of Dreams
Counting Lines
Taxx Is Tripping
Stormy Monday
Do It Movin’
August 21, 1971
Coming Soon: 50 Years After George Jackson
Ear Hustle Presents: Life Jolt
Home for Me Is Really a Memory
Cracked Windshield
The Whole Shabang
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It is Free
The Modern West
Russia Rising
In The Dark
Over My Dead Body
The Dropout
Broken Harts