{"type":"rich","version":"1.0","provider_name":"Transistor","provider_url":"https://transistor.fm","author_name":"Conversations with Buddy","title":"Ep. 218 Andrew Copeland and James Blystone - Cops and Cons: Breaking the Stigma, Finding Redemption!","html":"","width":"100%","height":180,"duration":4511,"description":"Cops and Cons - Breaking the stigma…\nWhat happens when a police chief and a man who has spent time behind bars sit down for an honest conversation about life, mistakes, faith, and second chances? In this powerful episode of Conversations with Buddy, I’m joined by Keizer Chief of Police Andrew Copeland and James Blystone to challenge the stigma that cops hate cons. Their relationship tells a different story—one built on humility, understanding, accountability, and the belief that no matter what your past looks like, you’re not too far gone!\n\nAndrew Copeland has served with the Keizer Police Department since 2002. A lifelong Keizer resident, Western Oregon University football player, husband to his high school sweetheart of more than 27 years, and father of four, Andrew has a personal understanding of how complicated life can become. Growing up in a broken home, moving through more than 20 homes before marriage, and watching his own brother struggle with addiction and repeated trouble with the law have shaped his perspective. Andrew shares how his Christian faith has kept him grounded and helped him navigate life’s challenges. His story reminds us that law enforcement officers are people, too, with families, struggles, and personal experiences that can deepen their compassion for others.\nJames Blystone brings a different perspective, having experienced the consequences of poor choices and life behind bars. He’s a man who enjoys fast cars and playing sports rather than just watching them, but his story is about much more than his past. We talk about the pull of the old life, parole violations, the challenges of rebuilding after prison, and what it means to redeem your past rather than allow it to define your future. From a memorable letter written in crayon to the possibility of becoming a “retired criminal,” James’s journey highlights the importance of accountability, personal growth, and choosing a different road—even when the road back is difficult.\nTogether,...","thumbnail_url":"https://img.transistorcdn.com/oxFqe0AJP5S7qrhkdAltuVa8mFSqDbYbj8eGzi5h_mM/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:400/h:400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS9zaG93/LzMyODkxLzE2NjAw/OTQ2NDAtYXJ0d29y/ay5qcGc.webp","thumbnail_width":300,"thumbnail_height":300}