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March 14, 2024 26 mins

In 1994, Sterling walked into prison a scrawny, 17-year-old biracial kid. His mettle was immediately tested by a much older white supremacist cellmate. That first night would set the tone for the years to come. But eventually,  he would discover new ideas and new ways of being -  in unexpected places.

Sterling adjusts to living in prison and meets a friend for life - get to know him in our mini-documentary,  Anthony’s Story.


This episode includes a description of a suicide attempt about 10 minutes into the program.  Listener discretion is advised. If you or anyone you know is struggling with a mental health crisis or suicidal thoughts, please call 988. That’s the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, 988.


To watch our companion videos, read the transcripts, and see our complete show notes with media links, sources, and references please visit our website: www.cellblockstomountaintops.com

Featured in this episode:

Sterling Cunio

Anthony Pickens

Carly Baetz, JD, PhD, Associate Professor of Psychology, Purdue University Northwest (formerly Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, NYU Grossman School of Medicine)

Cheryl Cunio


Companion Video for this Episode:
  Video 3A - Anthony’s Story

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