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Overcomers

Judge Michael J. Ryan was the son of a 14-year old mother who would develop a drug addiction that killed her when he was just 13. His father was in prison and his stepfather was known to frequently beat his mother and abuse drugs. Somehow, he overcame. School -- 11 of them before high school graduation -- was his refuge. He often shares his story with others, especially young people, seeking to inspire. We'll also hear from Stephanie Tolar of Medina, who shielded her drug and alcohol addiction, and underlying problems, from friends and family. She's sober now and tells her cautionary tale to middle schoolers. Latasha Watts is with us, too, to talk about the difficulties of her foster-care upbringing, aging out of the system and her resolve to make life better for foster children. Program originally aired April 2, 2015.

And ideastream's Brian Bull talks about his latest project, "Cleveland Tough: Tales of Survival and Perseverance." All of that on the next Sound of Ideas.

Mike Ryan, Cleveland Municipal Judge

Stefanie Tolar, Inspirational Speaker

Latasha Watts, Founder, The Purple Project