Prison to Purpose with Martin Lockett

Martin Lockett is the Director of Cultural Engagement at Lines for Life, a substance abuse counselor, author, public speaker, and advocate for reducing DUI fatalities. He spent 17.5 years in prison for a DUI fatality that claimed two lives and severely injured another. In an impassioned vow to his victims’ families and friends at his sentencing, Lockett devoted the rest of his life to honoring his victims’ legacies by helping others who struggle with substance abuse issues and warning of the dangers of drinking and driving. 

While incarcerated, Martin earned a BS in sociology, MS in psychology, and served as a mentor and role model to other inmates. He acquired state certification as a substance abuse counselor, published two books (Prison to Purpose Pipeline and My Prison Life), and began sharing his story at DUI victim impact panels all within the prison setting.

Now released, Lockett continues his mission and message by helping those in need of counseling services for mental health and substance abuse issues, while providing hope by sharing his powerful story of redemption at DUI victim impact panels, alcohol highway safety classes, high schools, colleges and conferences across the country. 

This podcast is hosted by Jessica Buchanan, a New York Times bestselling author, speaker, survivor and founder. Her latest book, How to Survive Survival: A Guide for Turning Life’s Hardest Moments Into Meaningful Contribution for the Worldwasreleased in 2025.  Jessica is also the author of Impossible Odds: The Kidnapping of Jessica Buchanan and Her Dramatic Rescue by SEAL Team Six, published in 2014, which became a New York Times Bestseller. 

Jessica is the founder of Soul Speak Press, a boutique non-traditional publishing company focused on stories from women who have been through something, now they know something and can teach us something.

When she’s not writing or speaking, Jessica is traveling the world with her Swedish husband and two “half Vikings.” She aims to lead a life shaped by curiosity, culture, and a deep appreciation for the resilience of the human spirit.