Dark Finds Podcast

In this powerful episode, Brent Cassity opens up about his dramatic fall from corporate success to federal prison — and the remarkable personal transformation that followed. Once a high-flying CEO, Brent shares how his father's incarceration foreshadowed his own, and how the weight of shame, stigma, and regret nearly broke him.
Through raw storytelling and hard-won insight, Brent reflects on the emotional toll of the plea process, the collapse of his business, and the surreal moment he stepped inside prison walls. But what followed wasn’t just survival — it was the beginning of something redemptive.
We dive into his concept of "Nightmare Success," the lessons he's learned about identity, second chances, and the quiet power of purpose. Brent also discusses the writing of his book, the strength he drew from his family, and why he now advocates for reform and compassion in the justice system.
This is a story of loss, reckoning, and the unbreakable human will to rebuild.
Brent Cassidy's website - https://brentcassity.com/#hear-the-stories
Dark Finds Podcast IG - https://www.instagram.com/darkfindspodcast/
Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/darkfindspodcast/membership
Dark Finds IG - https://www.instagram.com/dark.finds/
Dark Finds YouTube Channel for more dark long-form content - https://www.youtube.com/@DarkFindsChannel
Dark Finds book - https://amzn.eu/d/3VHPOTj
Dark Finds website - www.darkfindsmedia.com
What you'll learn

• The stigma of incarceration often overshadows individual stories.
• Many inmates have complex backgrounds and circumstances.
• Society tends to categorize people as either good or bad.
• The concept of 'nightmare success' reflects the journey through adversity.
• Family dynamics are deeply affected by incarceration.
• Redemption is a crucial aspect of the human experience.
• Reentry into society is fraught with challenges for ex-felons.
• The legal system can be unforgiving and complex.
• Understanding the nuances of crime is essential for reform.
• Earning redemption should be a societal priority. Brent realized the importance of shifting from victimhood to survival.
• He faced a significant decline in his business before going to prison.
• Pleading guilty was a strategic decision to avoid a longer sentence.
• The courtroom experience felt surreal and emotionally draining.
• Brent's family and friends provided crucial support during his ordeal.
• Adjusting to prison life required a strong mindset and resilience.
• He found purpose in prison through work and personal development.
• Hope played a vital role in his survival and mental health.
• Writing his book was a way to share his experiences and help others.
• Brent emphasizes the importance of finding new purpose after prison.

Keywords
inmate stories, criminal justice reform, redemption, personal journey, family impact, incarceration stigma, nightmare success, reentry challenges, business leadership, legal battles, victim, survivor, prison, business decline, plea agreement.

In this conversation...
Jonathan Schwartz shares his profound journey from childhood trauma to a successful career in business management within the entertainment industry, followed by a devastating fall into gambling addiction and embezzlement. He discusses the impact of unresolved trauma on his life, the lessons learned during his time in prison, and his commitment to helping others struggling with addiction and mental health issues. Jonathan's story is one of resilience, redemption, and the ongoing journey of personal growth.
Jonathan shares his harrowing journey through addiction, particularly gambling, and the subsequent path to recovery. He discusses the mindset of a gambler, the emotional toll of addiction, and the importance of personal accountability. Jonathan reflects on his time in prison, the growth he experienced, and the role of spirituality in his recovery. He emphasizes the need for societal change in how addiction is viewed and the importance of forgiveness and understanding in the healing process.
Dark Finds Podcast IG - https://www.instagram.com/darkfindspodcast/
Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/darkfindspodcast/membership
Dark Finds IG - https://www.instagram.com/dark.finds/
Dark Finds YouTube Channel for more dark long-form content - https://www.youtube.com/@DarkFindsChannel
Dark Finds book - https://amzn.eu/d/3VHPOTj
Dark Finds website www.darkfindsmedia.com
Takeaways

• Jonathan's childhood trauma shaped his adult life and career choices.
• He worked hard to overcome his past and build a successful career.
• Gambling addiction led to significant personal and professional downfall.
• Jonathan emphasizes the importance of addressing unresolved trauma.
• He found purpose in helping others after his recovery.
• His experience in prison taught him humility and resilience.
• Jonathan's journey reflects the complexities of mental health and addiction.
• He advocates for progress, not perfection in recovery.
• The support of the 12-Step Fellowship was crucial for his healing.
• Jonathan's story is a testament to the power of personal transformation. Gambling addiction is a behavioral addiction that can lead to severe emotional distress.
• The mindset of a gambler often involves grandiosity and a fantasy of winning back losses.
• Self-sabotage is a common behavior among those struggling with addiction.
• Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
• Recovery requires a commitment to pro-recovery behaviors and humility.
• Spirituality can play a significant role in the recovery process.
• Personal accountability is crucial in overcoming addiction.
• The prison system often lacks adequate educational and rehabilitative resources.
• Addiction is a complex interplay of genetic predisposition and personal choice.

Jonathan Schwartz, childhood trauma, gambling addiction, embezzlement, recovery, business management, entertainment industry, mental health, addiction therapy, personal growth, addiction, gambling, recovery, redemption, mental health, spirituality, personal accountability, prison, forgiveness, self-sabotage, Gary Colton

In this conversation, I sit down with Andrew Sanders to explore the cyclical nature of conflict and war, examining historical patterns, the role of security as a resource, and the impact of media on public perception. It delves into the radicalization of individuals, particularly in the context of the IRA, and discusses the implications of internment and inequality in Irish Republicanism. The discussion also touches on necropolitics and the manipulation of state power, drawing parallels to contemporary issues. This conversation delves into the complexities of the Northern Ireland conflict, exploring the fragmentation of paramilitary groups, the justifications for violence, and the impact of identity and diaspora support on Irish Republicanism. We reflect on the historical context of the Troubles, the perceptions of violence, and the lasting impressions from interviews with individuals on both sides of the conflict.
Andrews books - https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/Andrew-Sanders/author/B005CSPUIC?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true
Dark Finds Podcast IG - https://www.instagram.com/darkfindspodcast/
Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/darkfindspodcast/membership
Dark Finds IG - https://www.instagram.com/dark.finds/
Dark Finds YouTube Channel for more dark long-form content - https://www.youtube.com/@DarkFindsChannel
Dark Finds book - https://amzn.eu/d/3VHPOTj
Key takeaways

• War is a recurring theme in history, often driven by underlying tensions.
• Security is often used as a justification for military actions.
• Media plays a crucial role in shaping public perception of violence.
• Radicalization can stem from feelings of injustice and inequality.
• Internment has historically led to increased violence and radicalization.
• Socialism has been a significant aspect of Irish Republicanism.
• The dynamics of violence can change over time, affecting recruitment.
• Power vacuums within organizations can lead to chaos and infighting.
• Necropolitics highlights the state's role in determining who lives and dies.
• Contemporary issues often echo historical conflicts. The fragmentation of paramilitary groups led to increased violence among themselves.
• Justifiable violence is a complex issue, often defined by the state.
• The Troubles can be difficult to classify as a war due to differing perceptions.
• Identity plays a crucial role in the conflict, influencing individuals' actions and beliefs.
• Diaspora support significantly impacted Irish Republicanism, especially in the US.
• Understanding the scale of violence in the Troubles helps contextualize its impact.
• Many people today lack a comprehensive understanding of the Troubles.
• Regret and responsibility are felt differently on each side of the conflict.
• Radicalization often becomes intertwined with personal identity.
• The state’s role in defining violence shapes individuals' perceptions of their actions.

In this profound conversation, David Ditchfield shares his near-death experience following a tragic accident on a train platform. He recounts the harrowing moments leading up to the accident, his journey beyond pain, and the transformative encounters with beings of light. David reflects on the nature of existence, the power of the soul, and the lessons learned about time and love. His story offers hope and insight into the afterlife, challenging conventional beliefs about death and consciousness. In this conversation, David Ditchfield shares his profound experiences surrounding his near-death experience (NDE) and how it transformed his life. He discusses the intersection of science and spirituality, the creative expressions that emerged from his NDE, and his evolving perspective on life and death. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of understanding consciousness, the role of art and music in expressing spiritual journeys, and the necessity of preparing for death as a natural part of life.
David's website - https://www.shineonthestory.com
Dark Finds Podcast IG - https://www.instagram.com/darkfindspodcast/
Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/darkfindspodcast/membership
Dark Finds IG - https://www.instagram.com/dark.finds/
Dark Finds YouTube Channel for more dark long-form content - https://www.youtube.com/@DarkFindsChannel
Dark Finds book - https://amzn.eu/d/3VHPOTj
Key takeaways

• David's near-death experience began after a train accident.
• He felt liberated and free from pain during his experience.
• The encounter with beings of light provided healing and comfort.
• David realized the importance of living in the present moment.
• He felt a sense of completeness and liberation from past burdens.
• The tunnel of white light represented the source of all creation.
• David's experience challenges traditional views of life after death.
• He believes the soul continues on after physical death.
• David's story emphasizes the power of love and healing.
• He aims to share his experience to inspire others. There was still higher order activity going on in the brain after clinical death.
• The intersection of science and spirituality is crucial in understanding NDEs.
• Art and music can channel profound experiences and emotions.
• Creativity often emerges from traumatic experiences, leading to personal transformation.
• The spiritual awakening can be more significant than the trauma itself.
• We should prepare for death as we prepare for other life events.
• Consciousness exists beyond our current understanding and definitions.
• The experience of birth and death can be seen as equally powerful.
• Art serves as a medium to express experiences that words cannot capture.
• Sharing stories of NDEs can help alleviate the fear of death.

In this conversation, I sit down with Jesse Crosson as he shares his journey from a troubled youth spiraling into addiction and crime to finding solace and self-discovery during his time in prison. Jesse spent 19 years locked up, and discusses the tension and violence that permeate prison life, the struggle for education, and the impact of a scarcity mentality on rehabilitation efforts. He reflects on his journey to freedom through education and mentorship, the emotional challenges of reentry into society, and the importance of community support. Jesse also highlights the transformative power of education in reducing recidivism and the need for systemic change in the prison system.
Jesse's website - https://jessecrosson.com/my-story/
Dark Finds Podcast IG - https://www.instagram.com/darkfindspodcast/
Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/darkfindspodcast/membership
Dark Finds IG - https://www.instagram.com/dark.finds/
Dark Finds YouTube Channel for more dark long-form content - https://www.youtube.com/@DarkFindsChannel
Dark Finds book - https://amzn.eu/d/3VHPOTj

• From Darkness to Light: Jesse Crosson's Journey
• The Power of Redemption: A Conversation with Jesse Crosson
• Thrillers, Addiction, and the Path to Recovery
• Finding Solace in Solitude: Jesse Crosson's Story
• The Impact of Choices: A Journey Through Addiction and Prison
• Overcoming Adversity: Lessons from Jesse Crosson's Life

thriller, addiction, redemption, prison, mental health, social media, self-discovery, justice, personal growth, overcoming adversity, prison life, education, recidivism, mental health, nonprofit, social media, rehabilitation, pardon, emotional journey, community support, Jesse Crosson, Gary Colton, Dark Finds

In this episode, I sit down with Char Helliker to explore the fascinating world of mediumship, discussing its definition, the ancient connections to spirituality, and personal experiences that have shaped her understanding of the spirit world. Char shares her journey of awakening, the role of faith, and the influence of substances on spiritual experiences, including the healing potential of plant medicine. The dialogue delves into the challenges of navigating spirit communication and confronting darkness, particularly in relation to addiction. In this conversation, Char and Gary explore the profound connection between spirituality, gratitude, and the energy of Mother Earth. Char shares her experiences with grief and love, emphasizing the importance of setting boundaries and protecting one's energy. They discuss the power of the mind in healing and the necessity of spiritual practices in modern society. The conversation culminates in a discussion about reincarnation and the eternal nature of existence, highlighting the need for community and connection to nature.
Char's IG - https://www.instagram.com/heal_with_spirit/reels/
Char website - https://www.healwithspirit.co.uk/
Dark Finds Podcast IG - https://www.instagram.com/darkfindspodcast/
Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/darkfindspodcast/membership
Dark Finds IG - https://www.instagram.com/dark.finds/
Dark Finds YouTube Channel for more dark long-form content - https://www.youtube.com/@DarkFindsChannel
Dark Finds book - https://amzn.eu/d/3VHPOTj
Takeaways

• Mediumship is the ability to contact those who have transitioned to spirit.
• Everyone has the ability to communicate with spirit; it's about activation.
• Ancient cultures had a deeper connection to the spiritual realm.
• Faith plays a crucial role in understanding and navigating mediumship.
• Personal experiences can trigger spiritual awakenings.
• Substances can influence spiritual experiences, both positively and negatively.
• Plant medicine has been used for healing and connecting with the spirit world.
• The importance of setting and intention when working with plant medicine.
• Addiction can be seen as a form of hell on earth.
• Forgiveness is central to understanding our true nature as love. It's about respect, honour, and safety.
• Gratitude can coexist with grief.
• Working with spirit can lead to personal transformation.
• Setting healthy boundaries is vital for energy protection.
• The mind has miraculous power in healing.
• Spiritual practices do not require money.
• Repetition in practice leads to fluidity in life.
• Community support is essential for spiritual health.
• The absence of spirituality is linked to capitalism.
• We are eternal beings, constantly learning and evolving.

In this episode, I sit down with author and TED X speakers, Claire McAuliffe. Claire shares her experiences as a cult survivor, discussing the gradual process of becoming involved in a cult, the psychological manipulation at play, and the personal struggles she faced. She highlights the role of predictions made by cult leaders, the fear instilled in members, and the societal changes that influenced cult dynamics. Claire emphasizes the importance of understanding vulnerability and the impact of fear on decision-making, as well as her journey towards reclaiming her identity and voice after leaving the cult. If you’re liking the podcast, please subscribe, rate, follow, and share it with others. 🚀
Claire's book - https://www.amazon.com/Lessons-Cult-Survivor-Claire-Ashman/dp/0648263401
Dark Finds Podcast IG - https://www.instagram.com/darkfindspodcast/
Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/darkfindspodcast/membership
Dark Finds IG - https://www.instagram.com/dark.finds/
Dark Finds YouTube Channel for more dark long-form content - https://www.youtube.com/@DarkFindsChannel
Dark Finds book - https://amzn.eu/d/3VHPOTj

• The Journey of a Cult Survivor
• Unraveling Cult Dynamics
• From Submissiveness to Empowerment
• The Psychology Behind Cults
• Fear and Control in Religious Movements
• Understanding Vulnerability in Cults
• The Role of Predictions in Cult Leadership
• Breaking Free from Manipulation
• The Impact of Modernism on Cults
• Reclaiming Identity After Cult Life
• Navigating Faith and Family Life

In this episode, Gary sits down with M.E. Thomas, author of Confessions of a Sociopath, to explore the nuanced world of psychopathy — from societal perceptions and neurodiversity to capitalism and morality. Together, they unpack how psychopaths function within society, challenge common misconceptions, and examine the impact of sampling bias in research. Their conversation dives into the complex relationship between empathy, narcissism, and identity, touching on everything from immigrant contributions and fictional character relatability to language, writing, and community dynamics. M.E. also shares her personal journey: growing up in the Mormon church, navigating academia, and her therapeutic path toward self-understanding after publishing her book. This wide-ranging discussion ultimately questions what society assumes about morality and suggests that, perhaps, a world with psychopaths isn't as dysfunctional as we think.
M.E. Thomas' website - http://www.sociopathworld.com/
Dark Finds Podcast IG - https://www.instagram.com/darkfindspodcast/
Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/darkfindspodcast/membership
Dark Finds IG - https://www.instagram.com/dark.finds/
Dark Finds YouTube Channel for more dark long-form content - https://www.youtube.com/@DarkFindsChannel
Dark Finds book - https://amzn.eu/d/3VHPOTj
Takeaways

• Psychopaths are often misunderstood and demonized in media.
• Neurodiversity movements can influence perceptions of psychopathy.
• Research on psychopathy often suffers from sampling bias, focusing on prison populations.
• The identity of a psychopath can be complex and multifaceted.
• Psychopaths may possess a rationality that benefits society.
• Capitalism and psychopathy share overlapping traits, particularly in risk-taking.
• Empathy and social norms are perceived differently by psychopaths.
• The law often favors empaths over psychopaths in criminal cases.
• Psychopaths can be immune to mob mentality, which can be advantageous.
• There is a symbiotic relationship between psychopaths and normal individuals in society. Immigrants often take on jobs that others refuse to do.
• Psychopaths can identify and exploit opportunities in society.
• Cultural migration may have led to a higher prevalence of psychopathy in certain populations.
• Language and writing can be powerful tools for expression and understanding.
• Narcissism and psychopathy have distinct differences in self-perception.
• Empathy can sometimes lead individuals to make dangerous decisions.
• Fictional characters can reflect complex human emotions and experiences.
• Misplaced empathy can lead to harmful situations for individuals.

On this week’s episode, I’m joined by Ben Shenton. Ben is a survivor of "The Family," a notorious New Age cult led by Anne Hamilton-Byrne. At 18 months old, Ben was handed over to Hamilton-Byrne, who falsely claimed to be his mother. Within the cult, children were subjected to severe abuse, including forced conformity through identical appearances and strict discipline. In 1987, at age 15, Shenton was among several children rescued during a police raid on the cult's property. ​Ben has since become an advocate for survivors of cults and abusive environments and works now as a pastor. He authored the book Life Behind The Wire, detailing his experiences within "The Family" and his journey toward healing.
Ben's website - https://www.rescuethefamily.com/
Dark Finds Podcast IG - https://www.instagram.com/darkfindspodcast/
Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/darkfindspodcast/membership
Dark Finds IG - https://www.instagram.com/dark.finds/
Dark Finds YouTube Channel for more dark long-form content - https://www.youtube.com/@DarkFindsChannel
Dark Finds book - https://amzn.eu/d/3VHPOTj

On this week’s episode, I’m joined by bodybuilder and content creator the Half Natty King. Today, we’ll be delving into bodybuilding, the fitness industry, gear, struggles, serial killers, and so much more. And remember, if you’re liking the podcast, please subscribe, rate, follow, and share it with others.
Half Natty King website: https://50percentnatty.com/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabqQX5MMa3LnMCp702GrkdoXtDgtOZdx5Ttl_SoI_xmxVjkdJpz7-mWM2g_aem_SaG16InU-v35TWjUJt3Cxg
Half Natty King IG: https://www.instagram.com/50percentnatty_/
Dark Finds Podcast IG - https://www.instagram.com/darkfindspodcast/
Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/darkfindspodcast/membership
Dark Finds IG - https://www.instagram.com/dark.finds/
Dark Finds YouTube Channel for more dark long-form content - https://www.youtube.com/@DarkFindsChannel
Dark Finds book - https://amzn.eu/d/3VHPOTj