Chris Watler on Reentry, Opportunity, and Building Safer Communities

Greg Morris sits down with Chris Watler, Co-Chair of the New York City Employment and Training Coalition Board and Executive Vice President of the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO), for a thoughtful conversation about reentry, economic mobility, and what it takes to build safer, stronger communities.

March 5, 2026

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Watler reflects on his journey growing up in Crown Heights and how his upbringing shaped his commitment to service and opportunity for others. The conversation explores why mass incarceration is ultimately a policy problem—and how meaningful employment, training, and wraparound supports can help people returning from incarceration rebuild their lives and avoid returning to the system.

They also discuss CEO’s evidence-based model for helping returning New Yorkers secure work and advance into long-term careers, as well as the importance of policies like the proposed Reentry Assistance Bill, which would provide financial support to people leaving incarceration as they reconnect with their communities.

Tune in for a powerful discussion about justice, workforce development, and how New York can invest in people to create safer neighborhoods and stronger economic futures.