In this conversation, former political prisoner Eric King shares his experience of incarceration & the profound impact of relationships during his time in prison. He discusses the journey that led him to federal prison, the challenges of maintaining connections with loved ones, & the unique bond he formed with his wife, Rochelle. He highlights the importance of emotional support & understanding in navigating the complexities of love behind bars. Eric emphasizes the need for vulnerability & the significance of being valued as a person, despite the dehumanizing nature of the prison system. The conversation also touches on the societal perceptions of relationships with incarcerated individuals. Eric discusses the fleeting moments of joy that allowed him to escape the harsh realities of incarceration & the transformative power of love that helped him navigate his difficult journey. He reflects on the emotional complexities of his release day, the struggles of adjusting to life outside prison, & the importance of community support. Eric emphasizes the significance of finding joy & maintaining a smile as acts of resistance against the trauma of his past, while also highlighting the impact of art & connection in the healing process...particularly through seeing Myles Bullen perform live.

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HIGHLIGHTS:

• What led Eric into prison
• Prison relationships often face skepticism from the outside world
• Emotional vulnerability is essential for maintaining connections
• Visits from loved ones can be emotionally taxing & scrutinized
• Women often bear the emotional burden of supporting incarcerated partners
• Exploring how love can transform one's experience in prison
• The complexities and challenges of getting married in prison
• Moments of joy can provide relief from the harsh realities of incarceration
• The emotional turmoil leading up to release day.
• Navigating the challenges of the halfway house experience
• Finding joy & resistance in the aftermath of incarceration
• The power of a smile as an act of defiance against trauma
• Thoughts on Myles Bullen & the importance of community & art in the healing process

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