Podcasts about incarceration

What does it take to turn a life of chaos into one of purpose and impact? In this episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with Andre Norman, author, speaker, and transformational leader whose journey from maximum-security prison to Harvard University is nothing short of extraordinary. Andre opens up about the pivotal moments that changed his trajectory, from leading a prison gang to realizing he was built for something greater. He shares how education, faith, and the right mentors helped him rebuild his mindset and redirect his drive toward helping others do the same. Throughout the conversation, Andre and Darius explore the real meaning of redemption, why self-awareness is key to change, and how people can break free from their environments, no matter how deep the hole seems. In this episode, Darius and Andre will discuss: (00:00) Introduction to Greatness and Transformation (05:13) The Awakening: Setting Goals in Solitary Confinement (12:26) Mental Resilience: Surviving Solitary Confinement (17:15) Breaking the Cycle: From Gang Leader to Harvard Fellow (27:08) The Cost of Incarceration (28:28) Psychological Impact of Imprisonment (29:17) Comparing Global Prison Systems (30:54) The Historical Context of Prisons (32:42) Reforming the Penal System (34:06) Barriers to Change in Corrections (39:39) Rebuilding the System from Scratch (41:37) The Importance of Education (45:11) Changing Outcomes through New Approaches (46:25) Community Involvement for Change (50:52) Overcoming Barriers to Greatness Andre Norman is living proof that second chances are real. Once facing a 105-year prison sentence and leading gang activity behind bars, he turned his life around through education, faith, and determination. Today, as the founder of The Academy of Hope, he works to reduce prison violence and promote rehabilitation. His message of transformation has reached audiences worldwide, from TEDx stages to Harvard University and London Business School. Connect with Andre: Website: https://andrenorman.com/  Website: https://secondchanceuniversity.org/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andre-norman/  Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine  Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708 Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Rattling the Bars, host Mansa Musa speaks with Miami-based organizer Katherine Passley about how prison labor, temp agencies, and the 13th Amendment have created a system that traps formerly incarcerated people in unending cycles of cheap, hyper-exploited work. Passley, Co-Executive Director of Beyond the Bars, also talks with Musa about how her organization is fighting to win free jail phone calls, erase millions of dollars in fines and fees for systems-impacted people, and build powerful bridges between the prison abolition movement and the labor movement in Florida.Guest:Katherine Passley is Co-Executive Director of Beyond the Bars, a worker center in South Florida building the social and economic power of workers with criminal records and their families. Passley was named the 2025 Labor Organizer of the Year by In These Times magazine.Additional links/info:Beyond the Bars website, Substack, and InstagramKim Kelly, In These Times, "Building bridges and erasing jail debt: Katherine Passley"Mansa Musa, The Real News Network, "America is built on prison labor. When will the labor movement defend prisoners?"Credits:Producer / Videographer / Post-Production: Cameron GranadinoBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-real-news-podcast--2952221/support.Help us continue producing radically independent news and in-depth analysis by following us and becoming a monthly sustainer.Follow us on:Bluesky: @therealnews.comFacebook: The Real News NetworkTwitter: @TheRealNewsYouTube: @therealnewsInstagram: @therealnewsnetworkBecome a member and join the Supporters Club for The Real News Podcast today!

In this episode of Rattling the Bars, host Mansa Musa speaks with Miami-based organizer Katherine Passley about how prison labor, temp agencies, and the 13th Amendment have created a system that traps formerly incarcerated people in unending cycles of cheap, hyper-exploited work. Passley, Co-Executive Director of Beyond the Bars, also talks with Musa about how her organization is fighting to win free jail phone calls, erase millions of dollars in fines and fees for systems-impacted people, and build powerful bridges between the prison abolition movement and the labor movement in Florida.Guest:Katherine Passley is Co-Executive Director of Beyond the Bars, a worker center in South Florida building the social and economic power of workers with criminal records and their families. Passley was named the 2025 Labor Organizer of the Year by In These Times magazine.Additional links/info:Beyond the Bars website, Substack, and InstagramKim Kelly, In These Times, "Building bridges and erasing jail debt: Katherine Passley"Mansa Musa, The Real News Network, "America is built on prison labor. When will the labor movement defend prisoners?"Credits:Producer / Videographer / Post-Production: Cameron GranadinoBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/rattling-the-bars--4799829/support.Help us continue producing Rattling the Bars by following us and becoming a monthly sustainer.Sign up for our newsletterFollow us on BlueskyLike us on FacebookFollow us on TwitterDonate to support this podcast

In this compelling episode of I Am Dad Podcast, Kenneth Braswell sits down with Dwayne Roberts, U.S. Army veteran and founder of Men of Vision Colorado, to explore the intersection of faith, failure, and transformation in the lives of men and fathers. From 15 years in the military to serving time in county lockup, Dwayne's path was anything but linear—but it was divinely orchestrated. Kenneth and Dwayne unpack how faith became the foundation for a second act in life, leading to a ministry dedicated to empowering formerly incarcerated men. They talk about the power of mentorship, the emotional toll of shame and unworthiness, and how spiritual growth plays a critical role in reshaping a man's identity. Dwayne introduces his “Vision. Plan. Execute.” framework and offers insight into how churches and leaders can more effectively engage and support men on their journey toward healing and leadership. This episode is a masterclass in spiritual fathering, character building, and building environments where men can grow beyond their past into their full potential.

Wisconsin's much-touted prison overhaul plan promises to close crumbling facilities like Green Bay Correctional Institution, but people locked up inside these facilities may have to wait years for relief they desperately need now. In this episode of Rattling the Bars, formerly incarcerated organizer Sean Wilson joins host Mansa Musa to discuss whether Wisconsin's bipartisan prison plan will deliver real transformation to a broken justice system, or if it simply amounts to a construction project that leaves that system intact.Guest:Sean Wilson is the Senior Director of Organizing and Partnerships at Dream.Org. In his role, he is responsible for overseeing capacity building, leadership development programs, and grassroots partnerships. Over the past two and a half years, Sean has led the team in building one of the most transformational training programs in the nation - The Dream Justice Cohort, as part of the Justice program. Sean was born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and has organized at the state and local level around policy change related to youth justice, voting rights, police reform, and criminal justice.Additional links/info:Sean Wilson, Wisconsin Examiner, “I lived inside Green Bay Correctional. Wisconsin can't wait another four years”Credits:Producer / Videographer / Post-Production: Cameron GranadinoBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-real-news-podcast--2952221/support.Help us continue producing radically independent news and in-depth analysis by following us and becoming a monthly sustainer.Follow us on:Bluesky: @therealnews.comFacebook: The Real News NetworkTwitter: @TheRealNewsYouTube: @therealnewsInstagram: @therealnewsnetworkBecome a member and join the Supporters Club for The Real News Podcast today!

Wisconsin's much-touted prison overhaul plan promises to close crumbling facilities like Green Bay Correctional Institution, but people locked up inside these facilities may have to wait years for relief they desperately need now. In this episode of Rattling the Bars, formerly incarcerated organizer Sean Wilson joins host Mansa Musa to discuss whether Wisconsin's bipartisan prison plan will deliver real transformation to a broken justice system, or if it simply amounts to a construction project that leaves that system intact.Guest:Sean Wilson is the Senior Director of Organizing and Partnerships at Dream.Org. In his role, he is responsible for overseeing capacity building, leadership development programs, and grassroots partnerships. Over the past two and a half years, Sean has led the team in building one of the most transformational training programs in the nation - The Dream Justice Cohort, as part of the Justice program. Sean was born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and has organized at the state and local level around policy change related to youth justice, voting rights, police reform, and criminal justice.Additional links/info:Sean Wilson, Wisconsin Examiner, “I lived inside Green Bay Correctional. Wisconsin can't wait another four years”Credits:Producer / Videographer / Post-Production: Cameron GranadinoBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/rattling-the-bars--4799829/support.Help us continue producing Rattling the Bars by following us and becoming a monthly sustainer.Sign up for our newsletterFollow us on BlueskyLike us on FacebookFollow us on TwitterDonate to support this podcast

The BLUprint with Pastor J is where faith, culture, and transformation intersect. Each episode dives into real conversations that inspire personal growth, spiritual clarity, and practical success. Pastor J brings a fresh voice that bridges the sacred and the social — from navigating relationships and building legacy to confronting cultural issues with biblical truth and wisdom. It's not just a podcast — it's your blueprint for building life upward, one conversation at a time.

Send us a text“My foster child's biological parents are incarcerated; how can I guide them through this difficult time?” “My child's guard is up after trauma, how can I help take the walls down?” “How can I help a child transition out of Department of Juvenile Justice custody?” — When a child is in DJJ custody, they're locked up, isolated, and scared. They aren't just going through legal trouble, they're carrying trauma and shame. It takes resilience, hope, support, and love to break free of the trauma they've faced. That's why today Sophia Mills sits down with William Freeman, Founder and CEO of People of Purpose, an organization seeking to guide families as their loved ones come home from incarceration. He shares his experience going through the same thing and how he healed; as well as tips and strategies to help your child through the transition back into normality. Whether you or your child are going through this, know someone who is, or are recovering from any kind of trauma, William's powerful testimony and advice can help you on your journey. As William told us, “Sometimes it's not the trauma you expect. It's abandonment, it's silence, it's love not shown the way a child needs to feel it.”

On this episode of Everyday Injustice, we sit down with journalist and author Nell Bernstein, one of the nation's leading voices on youth incarceration and the failures of the juvenile punishment model. Bernstein is the author of Burning Down the House and her newly released book, In Our Future We Are Free: The Dismantling of the Youth Prison. Her work challenges the mythology around “dangerous youth,” exposes the long-term harm of locking children in carceral environments, and reframes what true public safety looks like in America. Bernstein's journey into youth justice began in the 1990s, during the height of the so-called superpredator era — a moment defined not by data, but by fear, racism, and political opportunism. She tells us how young people she worked with in San Francisco were funneled into arrests, courtrooms, and detention for low-level behaviors — not because they posed a threat, but because the system was built to criminalize them. What began as court accompaniment and juvenile hall visits evolved into decades of reporting, advocacy, and storytelling grounded in humanity rather than stereotype. In the conversation, Bernstein points to one of the most staggering realities: youth incarceration has dropped 75% nationwide since 2000, and more than two-thirds of youth prisons across the country have closed — including California's entire state-run youth prison system. Yet at the same time, a backlash is underway. Politicians and media are reviving superpredator-style narratives, and several states — including California — are now pushing to try more children as adults. Bernstein warns that progress isn't linear and the narratives driving fear often outpace the facts. This episode is both sobering and hopeful. Bernstein reminds us that youth incarceration is not inevitable — it is a policy choice driven by fear, inequity, and political gain. The alternatives already exist, and they work: community safety comes not from cages, but from education, support, housing, stability, and belonging. For anyone questioning whether change is possible, Bernstein's message is clear — transformation has already begun. The question now is whether we will defend it.

Today, Gary Tyler is a renowned fiber artist and activist. But he was once the youngest person on death row in the U.S., a man unjustly incarcerated at just age 17. He talks with World Economic Forum video producer Kateryna Gordiychuk about how his experience in prison introduced him to the medium and shapes his creative expression. While incarcerated, during the AIDs epidemic, Gary worked as a volunteer in one of the first prison hospice programs in the country. The need to fund the program led Gary to learn quilting to help raise money that could aid both the dying men and their families who wouldn't be able to travel to see their loved ones otherwise. The experience drove home for Gary the need for mercy and advocacy in systems where people cannot advocate for themselves. Today, his art explores themes of freedom and individuality and he speaks frequently on the contributions any individual can make, regardless of their circumstance. This interview was recorded at the Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland January 2025. About this episode: About Gary's Art: Library Street Collective: lscgallery.com Episode transcript: https://www.weforum.org/podcasts/meet-the-leader/episodes/gary-tyler-artist-activist Related Podcasts: Meet The Leader - Ballerina Misty Copeland: Unlocking potential and a leader's most 'vital' role https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qNwmJJMRt4o&t=1s Meet The Leader -  'I'll show you a real leader' - Platon, the photographer of power, on finding humanity in all of us https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AIUGFUza2ec&t=117s Meet the Leader - Adam Grant: Future leaders won't succeed without this key trait https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=buVVIpttzUA

TOPIC: Re-entry, Housing, and Rebuilding Lives After Incarceration Bryan Hudson, DMin, interviewed Dr. Michelle Daniel Jones, a returning citizen, scholar, and Executive Director of Constructing Our Future, a reentry and housing program for formerly incarcerated women in Indiana. Dr. Jones shares how Constructing Our Future was created by incarcerated women to provide safe, stable housing, personalized support, and pathways to education, employment, and family reunification. She explains the systemic barriers women face after incarceration—especially housing insecurity—and why person-first language like “returning citizen” is essential to restoring dignity. The episode also features her town hall presentation, “Housing: A Place to Begin Again,” and includes a call for churches, individuals, and community partners to support this work through advocacy, collaboration, and helping develop the Newton House, a larger permanent residence for women reentering society. Summary of Podcast Episode | Conversations In Focus https://0554ca18-1367-4da4-bc98-15ec46a2abb7.usrfiles.com/ugd/0554ca_526e53ef37ae4eae840c21e22a104db9.pdf Visit Dr. Jones' website: www.constructingourfuture.org Produced by Vision Communications Media LLC www.visionmediaexperts.com

TOPIC: Re-entry, Housing, and Rebuilding Lives After Incarceration Bryan Hudson, DMin, interviewed Dr. Michelle Daniel Jones, a returning citizen, scholar, and Executive Director of Constructing Our Future, a reentry and housing program for formerly incarcerated women in Indiana. Dr. Jones shares how Constructing Our Future was created by incarcerated women to provide safe, stable housing, personalized support, and pathways to education, employment, and family reunification. She explains the systemic barriers women face after incarceration—especially housing insecurity—and why person-first language like “returning citizen” is essential to restoring dignity. The episode also features her town hall presentation, “Housing: A Place to Begin Again,” and includes a call for churches, individuals, and community partners to support this work through advocacy, collaboration, and helping develop the Newton House, a larger permanent residence for women reentering society. Summary of Podcast Episode | Conversations In Focus https://0554ca18-1367-4da4-bc98-15ec46a2abb7.usrfiles.com/ugd/0554ca_526e53ef37ae4eae840c21e22a104db9.pdf Visit Dr. Jones' website: www.constructingourfuture.org Produced by Vision Communications Media LLC www.visionmediaexperts.com

Xi Jinping's Exile and Family Betrayal. Joseph Turigian describes how political torment extended to Xi Zhongxun's family, forcing Xi Jinping's mother to denounce her teenage son when he fled incarceration, a difficult moral judgment made to protect the remaining siblings. During the Cultural Revolution, Xi Jinping was exiled to the countryside near Yanan, a sacred site of Chinese Communist Party history. This mass "sending down" of youth was intended to toughen them up and instill revolutionary spirit, becoming a deeply formative experience for Xi Jinping. Xi Zhongxun spent years in prison writing unanswered, plaintive letters seeking relief and reconsideration from the leadership. Guest: Joseph Turigian. 906 PEKING

The Alabama prison system functions like a modern-day plantation: overcrowded, understaffed prisons like Bullock Correctional Facility run on forced labor, violence, and deliberate neglect. In this episode of Rattling the Bars, host Mansa Musa speaks with journalist Matthew Vernon Whalan about his book Bullock: Chronicles of Deprivation and Despair in an American Prison, and about the systematic corruption and inhumane horrors endured daily by incarcerated people in Alabama.Guest:Matthew Vernon Whalan is a writer and oral historian living in New England. He is the author of the book Bullock: Chronicles of Deprivation and Despair in an American Prison, and his work has appeared in Counterpunch Magazine, Alabama Political Reporter, Scheer Post, Jacobin, Eunoia Review, New York Journal of Books, The Brattleboro Reformer, and elsewhere. He runs the publication Hard Times Reviewer.Credits:Producer / Videographer / Post-Production: Cameron GranadinoBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/rattling-the-bars--4799829/support.Help us continue producing Rattling the Bars by following us and becoming a monthly sustainer.Sign up for our newsletterFollow us on BlueskyLike us on FacebookFollow us on TwitterDonate to support this podcast

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Crystal Hughes.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Crystal Hughes.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Crystal Hughes.

What if the hardest chapter of your life became the foundation of your purpose? In this powerful and deeply human episode of Achieving Success with Olivia Atkin, justice reform advocate Louis L. Reed shares how he transformed 14 years of incarceration into a life of impact, leadership, and influence. From the moment he realized his sentence didn't have to be his story, Louis began redefining success not by income or accolades, but by alignment, faith, and the change he could spark in others. Through vivid storytelling and lived wisdom, he reveals the lessons learned in “the white space” between the lines those unseen moments of resilience that shape who we become.Olivia and Louis explore what true freedom really means, why your story is your greatest superpower, and how to move from seeking a seat at the table to building your own. This conversation challenges you to look beyond the highlight reel, confront your own “white space,” and remember that every setback holds the seed of purpose. If you've ever questioned your path or doubted your power, this episode will reignite your belief in second chances and remind you that redemption isn't a destination, it's a daily practice.Want to start your own podcast, grow your show, or get featured as a guest? Let's map it out together. Book a free clarity call with Olivia to explore the next best move for your podcast strategy whether you're building from scratch, ready to scale, or looking to use guesting to grow your brand. MeetwithOlivia.meNeed more inspiration or tools?Access Olivia's book, podcast growth resources, and done-for-you support at Achieving-Success.comStay Connected With Us:LinkedIn: achieving-success-llcInstagram: @_achievingsuccessTwitter: @_achievesuccessFacebook: @Achieving SuccessYou Can Find Louis L. Reed:Website: www.decodedstorylab.comInstagram: @heinspires4realBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/achieving-success-with-olivia-atkin--5743662/support.

« Quand je visite les prisons en Haïti, je vois des cellules avec beaucoup, beaucoup de monde dans un espace très limité, très sombre, sans beaucoup d'air », raconte dans cette interview William O'Neill, expert désigné de l'ONU sur les droits humains dans le pays. La surpopulation, le manque de nourriture et l'absence de soins rendent ces établissements « vraiment effrayants » et dangereux pour la santé publique.Le problème est aggravé par l'absence quasi totale de procès : « 82 % des détenus sont là en attente d'un procès », souvent pour des accusations mineures, sans avocat ni contact avec leur famille, explique O'Neill. Ces personnes restent enfermées pendant des mois, voire des années, sans que la justice ne tranche leur situation.La corruption est aussi un défi majeur. Bien que les centres de détention disposent d'un budget pour nourrir les détenus, le personnel affirme manquer de moyens pour acheter de la nourriture. « L'argent est là, mais il est volé, caché, détourné », dit-il, appelant à responsabiliser les dirigeants pénitentiaires.Malgré ces conditions dramatiques, M. O'Neill souligne qu'une amélioration est possible. En avançant par étapes, en commençant par les plus vulnérables — mineurs, femmes, malades ou personnes âgées —  et en libérant provisoirement ceux qui n'ont pas de raison valable d'être détenus, « on peut faire des progrès, petit pas par petit pas ».(Interview : William O'Neill, Expert désigné des Nations Unies sur la situation des droits de l'homme en Haïti; propos recueillis par Daniel Dickinson)

Incarceration and addiction can tear families apart, but today's episode is a testament to the power of love, resilience, and second chances. Jacklyn Eva shares her deeply moving journey of navigating her husband's incarceration and their shared battle with addiction, revealing how they've maintained their connection and built a foundation of healing and purpose. This episode is a must-listen for anyone touched by addiction or incarceration—or anyone who believes in the strength of the human spirit.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!Here's How »Join the Prison: The Hidden Sentence Community today:https://prisonthehiddensentence.com/LinkedInTwitterFacebook

He was born Jason DeFord in Nashville, Tennessee. By the time he was a teenager, he was in and out of jail, surrounded by addiction, violence, and survival. He thought his life would end the same way it began: in chaos. But somewhere inside those walls, he started writing lyrics and dreaming about music. Today, the world knows him as Jelly Roll, one of the most unlikely success stories in country music. He has gone from a decade behind bars to the top of the Billboard charts, winning CMA Awards and earning Grammy nominations along the way. His songs are raw, confessional, and painfully honest. They are about addiction, faith, shame, forgiveness, and the long, slow road to redemption. In this deeply moving conversation with Kate Langbroek, recorded backstage at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney minutes before he hit the stage, Jelly Roll went deep about how he turned his pain into purpose. He shares the stories of the people who saved him, including his wife, Bunnie XO, and his children. He opens up about his years in prison, his mother’s struggles, his faith, and the moment he learned that forgiveness starts with yourself. It is the story of a man who refused to give up on himself, even when the world had. A boy who became a better man, a husband, a father, and one of the most honest voices in country music today. For more information on Jelly Roll head here. THE END BITS: Listen to more No Filter interviews here and follow us on Instagram here. Discover more Mamamia podcasts here. Feedback: podcast@mamamia.com.au Share your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice message, and one of our Podcast Producers will get back to you ASAP. Rate or review us on Apple by clicking on the three dots in the top right-hand corner, click Go To Show then scroll down to the bottom of the page, click on the stars at the bottom and write a review. CREDITS: Guest: Jelly Roll Host: Kate Langbroek Executive Producer: Naima Brown Senior Producer: Bree Player Audio Producer: Tina Matolov Video Producer: Julian Rosario This episode of No Filter was recorded backstage at Qudos Bank Arena. Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rattling the Bars's Mansa Musa explores how a one-woman play, The Peculiar Patriot, reveals the human cost of mass incarceration and the enduring ties between slavery and the prison system. The artist behind the play, Liza Jessie Peterson, has worked with incarcerated youth for decades, bringing their stories to the stage and to national audiences. Performed in more than 35 US prisons and filmed at Louisiana's Angola Prison—once a plantation, now a maximum-security facility—the play became the basis of the documentary, Angola: Do You Hear Us? (Paramount Plus / Amazon Prime). As the fight for abolition and prison reform gains momentum, this story reminds us that art is not decoration—it's a tool for awakening, organizing, and freedom.

Rattling the Bars's Mansa Musa explores how a one-woman play, The Peculiar Patriot, reveals the human cost of mass incarceration and the enduring ties between slavery and the prison system. The artist behind the play, Liza Jessie Peterson, has worked with incarcerated youth for decades, bringing their stories to the stage and to national audiences. Performed in more than 35 US prisons and filmed at Louisiana's Angola Prison—once a plantation, now a maximum-security facility—the play became the basis of the documentary, Angola: Do You Hear Us? (Paramount Plus / Amazon Prime). As the fight for abolition and prison reform gains momentum, this story reminds us that art is not decoration—it's a tool for awakening, organizing, and freedom.

Today, Hunter spoke with David Bennett, a veteran in the field of pretrial services. They discuss the evolution of pretrial services, the challenges of jail overcrowding, and the misconceptions surrounding pretrial programs. David shares insights on the importance of community support, risk assessment, and the need for effective alternatives to electronic monitoring. The conversation highlights the critical role of rehabilitation and support services in the criminal justice system, emphasizing the need for a paradigm shift in how we approach punishment and pretrial release. Guest: David Bennett, Retired Pre-Trial Services and Criminal Justice Consultant Resources: Read More Here https://www.ojp.gov/ncjrs/virtual-library/abstracts/jail-capacity-planning-guide-systems-approach Contact Hunter Parnell: Publicdefenseless@gmail.com Instagram @PublicDefenselessPodcast Twitter @PDefenselessPod www.publicdefenseless.com Subscribe to the Patreon www.patreon.com/PublicDefenselessPodcast Donate on PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=5KW7WMJWEXTAJ Donate on Stripe https://donate.stripe.com/7sI01tb2v3dwaM8cMN Trying to find a specific part of an episode? Use this link to search transcripts of every episode of the show! https://app.reduct.video/o/eca54fbf9f/p/d543070e6a/share/c34e85194394723d4131/home

Steven "Bo" Belmont is a CEO/Founder of a successful real estate investment firm called Belwood Investments. To look at him, you'd never know he'd been incarcerated...but he was. And he wouldn't change it now if he could. Listen as Bo tells Max about the impact prison made on the man he ultiamtely became. (Spoiler alert: it's inspiring.) For for from Bo: belwoodinvestments.com (or the Belwood Investor app) Book: Fractured To Fractions Email: bo@thebigco.org For More From Sober Coach/Substance Abuse Counselor Max Njist, visit MaxNijst.org

The first formerly incarcerated person ever elected to the Nevada Legislature, Assemblymember Jovan Jackson, joins us on Prison the Hidden Sentence. From serving time in prison to serving his community in the State Assembly, Jovan's journey is one of resilience, redemption, and purpose. He opens up about how his lived experience fuels his fight for criminal justice reform, restoring voting rights, and expanding opportunities for families impacted by incarceration. This inspiring conversation highlights how one man transformed his past into a platform for change—and why his historic election brings hope to communities in Nevada and beyond.Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!Here's How »Join the Prison: The Hidden Sentence Community today:https://prisonthehiddensentence.com/LinkedInTwitterFacebook

In this deeply personal episode, Dr. Crystallee Crain shares her powerful essay exploring love, loss, and emotional abuse through the lens of supporting a man recently exonerated after decades in prison. She reveals the complex effects of incarceration trauma, the challenges of intimate relationships post-release, and the collateral damage for loved ones. A raw, honest reflection on healing, freedom, and resilience. Special thanks to Flintside.com for publishing this essay on October 20, 2025.See essay here. Thank you for listening.Sound CreditsEpidemic SoundEven Good Things (Instrumental Version)Katori Walker

Brent Cassity interviews Topeka Sam on the Nightmare Success Podcast, a true impact leader with an inspiring comeback story. Topeka K. Sam is a nationally recognized leader in criminal justice reform, dedicated to transforming the lives of women and girls impacted by incarceration. After serving time in federal prison herself, Topeka emerged as a powerful voice for change. She is the founder and Executive Director of The Ladies of Hope Ministries (The LOHM), an organization that provides housing, reentry support, and advocacy for formerly incarcerated women.Her story and mission have been featured by major outlets including The Today Show, CNN, The Tamron Hall Show, and The New York Times. Topeka has advised policymakers, including speaking at the White House and testifying before Congress, to advance legislation on prison reform and second chances. Topeka received a Presidential Pardon by President Trump on December 23, 2020.Passionate, fearless, and inspiring, Topeka Sam represents resilience and purpose-driven leadership. Through her advocacy, she challenges the stigma of incarceration and builds pathways of hope, dignity, and opportunity for women returning home. Topeka also does film work highlighting people who need to be released from prison. One of these films featured Alice Johnson that caught the attention of Kim Kardashian. Kim and Topeka teamed up and got President Trump to Pardon Ms. Johnson. Alice Johnson now serves as the Pardon Czar in the Trump Administration.Show sponsors: Navigating the challenges of white-collar crime? The White-Collar Support Group at Prisonist.org offers guidance, resources, and a community for those affected. Discover support today at Prisonist.org Protect your online reputation with Discoverability! Use code NIGHTMARE SUCCESS for an exclusive discount on services to boost your digital image and online reputation. Visit Discoverability.co and secure your online presence today. Skip the hassle of car shopping with Auto Plaza Direct. They'll handle every detail to find your perfect vehicle. Visit AutoPlazaDirect.com "Your personal car concierge!"

When Jamal was 13, he was shot on his way to school. Four years later, he was in prison. This is the story of how violence, survival, and faith intertwined to shape a new kind of transformative hope. In this episode, Roslyn Hernández and Jamal take us inside his journey from incarceration to transformation. We hear how Jamal found hope inside prison, how neighbors and advocates fought for his release, and how he now mentors young people at The Firehouse Community Center for the Arts, in Lawndale, to break the cycles of violence that once trapped him. It's a story of injustice, but also of gospel hope, the kind that's lived, not just preached. It's a reminder that even when systems fail us, community can be the place where restoration begins. This season is an immersive journey that invites you to witness how neighbors and local leaders are answering a powerful question. How do we acknowledge brokenness and challenge oppression to cultivate and preserve communities so everyone can flourish? In the episode Jamal Bakr SRA Graduation Speech, June 2022  Rev Alicia Reese & Jamal Bakr - Saving All of Me State of Illinois Prisoner Review Board 12/19/2024 Jamal Bakr The Firehouse Arts Center of Chicago  Producer, Writer, Host: Roslyn Hernández Video and Sound Engineer: Nasim Bowlus Story Teller: Jamal Bakr A Chasing Justice Production Social links https://chasingjustice.com/ Instagram: @chasingjustice_ We have an active Patreon community where you can access more resources. Support Chasing Justice || Patreon: patreon.com/ChasingJustice ||  PayPal: paypal.me/ChasingJustice || Donate: chasingjustice.com/donate 

In one of the most emotional and powerful episodes of Domestic Dad: Cleaning Up the Mess, host Nick Barnett sits down with Jason Comer, a husband, father of five, and living testimony of how God's grace can turn devastation into destiny.   Jason's life is a raw reflection of brokenness, rebellion, incarceration, relapse, forgiveness, and divine restoration. This episode traces his complete journey—from a troubled childhood and early substance use, to meth addiction, prison, family separation, and the miraculous road back to sobriety, faith, and fatherhood.   Through tears, laughter, and hard truths, Jason opens up about what it means to be a man redeemed. He shares how Hope City Church, mentorship, and a community of believers gave him the spiritual and emotional tools he never had growing up. His story reveals the brutal reality of addiction—but more importantly, the beauty of God's redemption story when we finally stop running.   This is more than a story about getting sober. It's a story about becoming whole, about how God can take the pieces of a shattered life and build something new—something strong enough to lead a family, raise kids with love, and inspire others to believe that no matter how dark the pit, there is always a way out.   If you're a parent fighting your own battles, a man seeking purpose, or someone walking through the ashes of addiction or shame—this episode will meet you right where you are.   ⸻  

Raymond is a former HR professional, an entrepreneur, a father, a podcast host, and an author. In our conversation we dive into receiving someone's vulnerability, staying away from fixing others, designing boundaries, how his dad's incarceration shaped him, pushing through fear, and finding his why, plus a few other things. Website: https://careerminds.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raymondmlee/

This week on the Lin. Woods Gospel Entertainment Podcast, Host Lin. Woods sits down with gospel recording artist and songwriter Johnny B., whose powerful journey takes him from incarceration to entrepreneurship, trucking, and gospel music success.Johnny B. opens up about his beginnings in Ohio with his twin brother—a chart-topping jazz artist—his struggles, and how God delivered him to a new life of purpose and praise. He also shares valuable tips for aspiring artists and insight into his inspiring new single, “God Never Gave Up On Me.”Please join us in prayer for Johnny B. As we were completing this episode, we received word that he'd been in a serious accident. Let's lift him up in love and faith, friends and fans. Tune in on all podcast platforms!Follow Lin. Woods on social media: 

Visiting the imprisoned is a Corporal Work of Mercy, and Father Dave welcomes Father Dustin Feddon to discuss accompanying those who are imprisoned, both during their sentences and after their releases. Father Dustin is a priest inof the diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee and the author of “More Than Half Way Home: A Story of Accompaniment in the Shadows of Incarceration.”  

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, hosts Courtney and Brian Mavis delve into the critical social issues surrounding foster care, including homelessness, incarceration, teen pregnancy, and generational foster care. They discuss the alarming statistics related to these social wounds and emphasize the importance of family connections and mentorship in preventing these issues. The conversation highlights personal stories and insights, aiming to raise awareness and encourage community involvement in supporting foster youth.TakeawaysOne in five youth aging out of foster care become homeless immediately.Connections and relationships are crucial for preventing homelessness.Teen pregnancy among foster youth is often a desire for family.Generational foster care perpetuates cycles of disadvantage.Mentorship can provide essential life skills to foster youth.Foster care is a significant predictor of future incarceration.Housing alone does not solve the problem; connection is key.Support for foster youth should include practical life skills training.Community involvement can make a difference in the lives of foster youth.Wisdom and worth are essential in preventing teen pregnancy. Thank you for listening to this episode of The Foster Friendly Podcast.Learn more about being a foster or adoptive parent or supporting those who are in your community.Meet kids awaiting adoption. Join us in helping kids in foster care by donating $18 a month and change the lives of foster kids before they age out.Visit AmericasKidsBelong.org and click the donate button to help us change the outcomes of kids in foster care.

This week on Givers, Doers, & Thinkers, Jeremy Beer sits down with Cary Sanders of JumpStart and Ralph May of St. Vincent de Paul in Boise to talk about what it really takes to break the cycle of incarceration. They share personal stories of re-entry, the challenges returning citizens face, and how their organizations are building paths to rehabilitation through community support, employment, and addiction recovery. Let's go!Sponsored by AmPhil, helping nonprofits advance their missions and raise more money: https://amphil.com/.#interview #podcast #newepisode #nonprofitCenter for Civil Society's YouTube Channel

Reading is fundamental, so they say, and it can also be a major factor in cutting down prison recidivism rates. The Prison Book Program in Quincy has been providing free books to incarcerated people around the country since 1972, helping people behind bars grow, study, and prepare for a healthier and more productive life upon their release. Executive Director Kelly Brotzman joins Nichole this week to talk about their mission, their efforts to get books into prison "book deserts", and their upcoming fundraiser later this month.

Eric King is a father, poet, activist, and anarchist who was imprisoned in 2014 for acts of solidarity with the Ferguson, MO, uprising in the wake of the police killing of Michael Brown. While locked up, King endured years of documented physical and psychological torture, spending the last 18 months of his sentence in the ADX supermax prison in Florence, Colorado. In this episode of Rattling the Bars, host Mansa Musa speaks with King about how he survived his incarceration “with heart and soul intact,” and about King's new book, A Clean Hell: Anarchy and Abolition in America's Most Notorious Dungeon, in which he “opens the doors of America's most secretive prison and lets the reader step into the cell to experience all the horrors the Federal Bureau of Prisons tries to keep hidden underground.”For full show notes and transcript, click here.Credits:Producer / Videographer / Post-Production: Cameron GranadinoHelp us continue producing Rattling the Bars by following us and becoming a monthly sustainer.Sign up for our newsletterFollow us on BlueskyLike us on FacebookFollow us on TwitterDonate to support this podcast

Mike Sperrazza and Mike Hoeflich kick things off with the Buffalo Bills' tough loss to the Patriots and a quick check-in on the Sabres before diving into the real battles in Washington. The hosts tackle Donald Trump's role in global peace efforts, government spending, and the hypocrisy behind funding illegal immigrants while America faces crushing debt. They call out soft-on-crime judges, discuss repeat offenders walking free, and question how the justice system lost its moral compass. From political accountability to the erosion of values, this episode delivers blunt, unapologetic commentary on the issues dividing America.(00:00:47) Buffalo Bills' Strong Conference Position Amidst Loss(00:07:18) The US Election Fraud Debate(00:13:13) National Debt Impact on Foreign Aid(00:16:00) Sentencing Disparity in Judicial System Reform(00:18:25) Incarceration for Public Safety: Repeat Offenders

This week, “Monster: The Ed Gein Story” is the most watched show on Netflix. It's a dramatized retelling of the life of the serial killer who inspired “Psycho” and “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.” The “Monster” franchise, which includes two earlier seasons about Jeffrey Dahmer and Lyle and Erik Menendez, is one of Netflix's splashiest hits – the Dahmer season is still the fourth-most viewed English language show in the history of the platform. And the true crime obsession only grows each year. On Netflix last year, 15 of the top 20 documentaries were true crime docs, compared to just six in 2020. But what does it mean for the subjects of these documentaries, that Americans endlessly crave stories about murder and bloodshed and terror? John J. Lennon is a contributing editor for Esquire and writes frequently for New York Review of Books and the New York Times. This week, he spoke to host Brooke Gladstone from Sing Sing Correctional Facility, where he's serving his 24th year of his 28-year-to-life sentence for murder, drug sales, and gun possession. They spoke about his new book, The Tragedy of True Crime, what it was like to watch himself get featured in a true crime documentary, and why he wants to upend the typical 'true crime' narratives of good vs. evil.  On the Media is supported by listeners like you. Support OTM by donating today (https://pledge.wnyc.org/support/otm). Follow our show on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook @onthemedia, and share your thoughts with us by emailing onthemedia@wnyc.org.

Diddy may be sitting in a cell after his criminal conviction, but his real problems are only just beginning. The civil cases stacked against him—ranging from assault and trafficking to racketeering—are like financial grenades waiting to explode. Prison might have taken his freedom, but the lawsuits are coming for his wallet, reputation, and empire. With his income frozen, legal bills soaring, and plaintiffs lining up, Diddy faces a perfect storm of financial destruction. Every civil case uses his conviction as leverage, every filing drains more money, and every new accusation keeps his name in the headlines. He can't charm or intimidate from behind bars, and the “Bad Boy” image that once made him untouchable is now his biggest liability.While he fights appeals and clings to what's left of his empire, the civil courts are dismantling everything he built. Revolt TV's crumbling, his business partners have cut ties, and his assets are being targeted from every direction. Even if he wins a few cases, the cost of defending them could ruin him. Bankruptcy won't save him, since most of these claims can't be erased, and the IRS and creditors are already circling what's left. In the end, the criminal sentence may prove easier than the long, slow bleed of civil court—where Diddy's money, legacy, and reputation will be stripped away piece by piece until there's nothing left but the shell of who he used to be.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-epstein-chronicles--5003294/support.

Diddy may be sitting in a cell after his criminal conviction, but his real problems are only just beginning. The civil cases stacked against him—ranging from assault and trafficking to racketeering—are like financial grenades waiting to explode. Prison might have taken his freedom, but the lawsuits are coming for his wallet, reputation, and empire. With his income frozen, legal bills soaring, and plaintiffs lining up, Diddy faces a perfect storm of financial destruction. Every civil case uses his conviction as leverage, every filing drains more money, and every new accusation keeps his name in the headlines. He can't charm or intimidate from behind bars, and the “Bad Boy” image that once made him untouchable is now his biggest liability.While he fights appeals and clings to what's left of his empire, the civil courts are dismantling everything he built. Revolt TV's crumbling, his business partners have cut ties, and his assets are being targeted from every direction. Even if he wins a few cases, the cost of defending them could ruin him. Bankruptcy won't save him, since most of these claims can't be erased, and the IRS and creditors are already circling what's left. In the end, the criminal sentence may prove easier than the long, slow bleed of civil court—where Diddy's money, legacy, and reputation will be stripped away piece by piece until there's nothing left but the shell of who he used to be.to contact me:bobbycapucci@protonmail.com

Ken Miller's story is one of radical resilience. From growing up in the foster care system to attending Dartmouth, battling addiction, and serving time as a three-time felon, Ken's journey is a testament to the power of second chances.In this episode of The Uncommon Leader Podcast, host John Gallagher sits down with Ken to explore:

Welcome to Part 3 of Episode 259 of the Mike Drop Podcast, featuring guest Zach Skow, founder of Marley's Mutts Dog Rescue and the Pawsitive Change program. In this final installment, Zach and host Mike Ritland explore the successes and rare failures of inmate rehabilitation through dog training, delving into the U.S. prison system's flaws—including over-incarceration, drug ubiquity, and historical policies like the War on Drugs and the 1994 Crime Bill. Listeners will hear thought-provoking debates on reform ideas, from harsh punitive measures to humanity-focused programs, alongside stories of post-incarceration employment in the pet industry and Zach's gripping account of Operation Kabul Rescue, evacuating hundreds of animals amid Afghanistan's chaos. Packed with insights on second chances, societal change, and unbreakable human-animal bonds, this episode wraps up an epic conversation with raw honesty and inspiration. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There are two primary federal agencies tasked with immigration detention: ICE, which is well known, and the US Marshal Service. Under the Trump administration, the US Marshals have dramatically increased their role in detaining and incarcerating undocumented immigrants, using their federal power to override restrictions on immigrant detention in local jails around the country. In this episode of Rattling the Bars, host Mansa Musa speaks with Wanda Bertram, communications strategist for the Prison Policy Initiative, about how the Trump administration is weaponizing legal loopholes and the US Marshal Service to execute the mass incarceration of immigrants.For full show notes and transcript, click here.Credits:Producer / Videographer / Post-Production: Cameron GranadinoHelp us continue producing Rattling the Bars by following us and becoming a monthly sustainer.Sign up for our newsletterFollow us on BlueskyLike us on FacebookFollow us on TwitterDonate to support this podcastWE'RE FINALISTS FOR THE PRESTIGIOUS SIGNAL AWARDS. HELP US WIN!Click here to vote!:https://vote.signalaward.com/PublicVoting#/2025/shows/genre/historyMichael Fox is also a finalist in the History Podcast category for his truly unique, rich, and inspirational weekly series Stories of Resistance------------Click here to vote for Marc Steiner!: https://vote.signalaward.com/PublicVoting#/2025/individual-episodes/cMarc Steiner is a finalist for Best Host of an Individual Episode 

The Intrinsic Philosophy of Change Change from Within: We believe that the most enduring and meaningful transformations arise from the people most impacted—those who live within the system and carry its deepest insights. Embedded Transformation: Change is not an external imposition. It becomes intrinsic—woven into the identity of the individual, group, or organization. It's not just what they do differently; it's who they become. Unlocking Capacity: Our role is to help unlock the door to internal wisdom. When systems are open and safe enough to explore their own truths, remarkable growth becomes possible. Inside-Outside Strategy: This approach may take more time, but it yields outcomes that are more just, more fair, and more permanent. It's not about quick fixes—it's about cultivating sustainable evolution. Collaborative Discovery: We don't bring answers—we help uncover them. Our work is grounded in trust, curiosity, and the belief that every system holds the seeds of its own renewal.

A new symposium is shining a spotlight on a series of legal battles around the incarceration of Japanese Americans during World War II.

On this week's episode of The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast, we welcome Hillary Blout — attorney, advocate, and founder of For The People. Hillary is a powerhouse changemaker who is transforming the justice system through something called Prosecutor-Initiated Resentencing (PIR). Under her leadership, For The People has partnered with District Attorneys across the country to take a second look at old cases, identify people who can be safely released, and reunite families — all while strengthening communities. In 2018, Hillary drafted and helped secure the passage of AB 2942 — the first PIR law in the nation. The following year, she founded For The People to implement this groundbreaking law and spearhead a movement for post-conviction justice. Since then, PIR has expanded into six states and given more than 1,000 people a second chance. In this episode, you'll hear: ✨ Hillary's journey from prosecutor to nonprofit founder and national leader in justice reform; ✨ The story behind AB 2942 and how it became the first PIR law in the nation; ✨ How For The People is reuniting families, strengthening communities, and reshaping what justice looks like in America; ✨ Inspiring stories of redemption, resilience, and second chances; ✨ How you can learn more and get involved in this powerful movement; ✨ And so much more! Follow + Learn More: Follow For The People on Instagram @forthepeople_justice and visit ForThePeople.org to learn more, support their work, or get involved. Listen + Subscribe: Don't miss this inspiring, thought-provoking, and empowering conversation — and so many others! Listen to The 1 Girl Revolution Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and be sure to subscribe to stay up-to-date with our latest episodes. ✨ Join the movement to empower women and girls — and change the world, one story at a time. For more information, visit: 1GirlRevolution.com

Ali Siddiq is a comedian and writer who shares his stories of abuse, incarceration, grief, and the importance of friendship. Find all of his powerful stand-up specials, including the newly released standup special Rugged (on YouTube). This episode is sponsored by NOCD. If you're struggling with OCD or unrelenting intrusive thoughts, NOCD can help. Book a free 15 minute call to get started: https://learn.nocd.com/mentalpodIf you're interested in seeing or buying the furniture that Paul designs and makes follow his IG @ShapedFurniture or visit the website www.shapedfurniture.com WAYS TO HELP THE MIHH PODCASTSubscribe via Apple Podcasts (or whatever player you use). It costs nothing. It's extremely helpful to have your subscription set to download all episodes automatically. https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/mental-illness-happy-hour/id427377900?mt=2Spread the word via social media. It costs nothing.Our website is www.mentalpod.com our FB is www.Facebook.com/mentalpod and our Twitter and Instagram are both @Mentalpod Become a much-needed Patreon monthly-donor (with occasional rewards) for as little as $1/month at www.Patreon.com/mentalpod Become a one-time or monthly donor via PayPal at https://mentalpod.com/donateYou can also donate via Zelle (make payment to mentalpod@gmail.com) To donate via Venmo make payment to @Mentalpod See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

I begin by offering thoughts on Israel's strike against Hamas in Qatar and how it should be a warning for us to divest from the Muslim Brotherhood. Next, I discuss how the horrific murder of Iryna Zarutska provides us with a chance to reset the baseline on criminal justice policy. The focus must be on locking up more violent career criminals, especially the criminally insane, and reforming the way degrees of crime are categorized. I offer data you probably never heard that shows how we arrest only a fraction of the worst offenders in each crime category, and only an infinitesimal number results in people serving meaningful prison sentences. If we actually convicted just the people who commit the crimes that we all agree should result in prison time, the prison population would necessarily have to grow.  Then again, if we actually did this for a few years, crime would plummet as a result of the deterrent Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What was Trump's involvement with the underage victims of Jeffrey Epstein and his rich buddies? Could the testimony of vulnerable victims be the turning point what finally brings the King-President back to earth? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.