In this powerful episode, former New York corrections officer Janelle Thomas shares her remarkable journey from working inside maximum-security women’s prisons to serving as a care coordinator at the Crisis Center of Tampa Bay. Drawing from firsthand experience, Janelle offers an unfiltered look at life in the corrections academy, the realities of women’s correctional facilities, and the role of mental health programming behind the walls.

Janelle also speaks candidly about the often-overlooked challenges first responders face after leaving the profession. She opens up about seeking help, experiencing homelessness following retirement, and how resources like 2-1-1 and peer support networks can be lifesaving bridges to stability and recovery for those in crisis.

This episode is an honest, hopeful conversation about resilience, accountability, and the importance of accessible support for first responders navigating life beyond the badge.

First Responder Hope Line

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