Prison Exposed

In this episode of Prison Exposed, hosts Sahai and Hope speak with Nick Szuberla, a director and media advocate, to discuss the documentary Up the Ridge and Injustice: Hidden Crisis in Virginia's Prisons and the broader implications of supermax prisons in Virginia. The conversation explores the evolution of community media, the ethical responsibilities of documentary filmmakers, and the impact of incarceration on rural economies.

Szuberla shares insights from his experiences in documentary filmmaking, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, community storytelling, and the importance of empathy addressing systemic issues that shape people's lives. The discussion also highlights the role of families in advocacy and the necessity of resistance against dehumanization in prisons, ultimately calling for a more nuanced understanding of the complexities that sustain a punitive justice system.

Resources:

Up the Ridge

Injustice: Hidden Crisis in Virginia's Prisons

www.nickszuberla.com

www.narrativearts.org

In this episode of Prison Exposed, hosts Hope and Sahai, along with guests Zora and Katie, discuss the documentaries 'Up the Ridge' and 'Solitary,' exploring the realities of supermax prisons in Virginia. They discuss the emotional and economic impacts on communities, the racial dynamics at play, and the human cost of incarceration. The conversation highlights the struggles of families affected by incarceration and the systemic issues within the prison system, ultimately questioning the narratives surrounding justice and rehabilitation. The speakers reflect on the psychological effects of solitary confinement, the dehumanizing language used in relation to the prison system, and the need for a more humane approach to incarceration. They emphasize the importance of understanding the systemic issues that contribute to the current state of the prison system and advocate for awareness and reform.

Up the Ridge Documentary

Solitary: Inside Red Onion State Prison is currently streaming on HBO Max

This episode continues our examination of the systemic violence and control mechanisms inside Virginia’s supermax prisons, Red Onion and Wallens Ridge. Picking up in 2024, we trace a series of escalating events, including accounts of self-immolation, multiple deaths inside Red Onion, assaults on correctional officers at Wallens Ridge and River North, and the institutional responses that followed.

We examine the lawsuit filed in the wake of these incidents, as well as the implementation of redlining policies, expanded restrictions, and collective punishment measures that have reshaped daily life inside these facilities.

**This episode has also been updated since it was originally recorded to include breaking news regarding the recent death of Malik Carter, a DC resident incarcerated at USP Lee, a federal prison in Virginia, with unresolved questions surrounding the circumstances of his death.

Aubrey McKay's Gofundme⁠

⁠Aubrey McKay's Change.org Petition⁠

⁠Malik Carter's Gofundme⁠

This episode examines the systemic violence and control mechanisms inside Virginia’s supermax prisons, Red Onion and Wallens Ridge. Originally justified as facilities for the “worst of the worst,” these prisons frequently house individuals with release dates, many struggling with serious mental health challenges.

This episode traces the history of documented abuse, the expansion of interstate transfers to fill beds, and the use of isolation and collective punishment as tools of control. It addresses the legal battles brought by incarcerated people and their families.

At its core, this episode confronts the human cost of prolonged isolation and the systemic failures that allow these conditions to persist.

This conversation delves into the harsh realities of life inside supermax prisons, Red Onion and Wallens Ridge, through the eyes of Willie, a person formally incarcerated. He shares his experiences of being transferred to Red Onion, and later to Wallens Ridge, the brutal conditions, and the systemic abuse faced by those inside. The discussion highlights the importance of advocacy, the need for a paper trail in legal matters, and the impact of isolation on mental health. Willie emphasizes the necessity of maintaining connections with loved ones and fighting for humane treatment within the prison system.

Help Willie Take His Next Steps. Transportation=Opportunity

This episode of Prison Exposed delves into the alarming conditions at Red Onion and Wallens Ridge, two supermax prisons in Virginia. The hosts discuss the personal journey to these facilities, the isolation of the surrounding communities, and the economic struggles faced by towns like Pound, Virginia. They explore the dynamics of incarceration, the role of correctional officers, and the racial implications of the prison population. The episode also briefly discusses the tragic case of Aubrey McKay and the need for transparency and accountability in the prison system, while emphasizing the importance of advocacy groups in addressing these issues.

In this episode of Prison Exposed, hosts Sahai and Hope engage in a thoughtful conversation with Dana Martin, the program manager for Music For The Future, a project under Project Music Heals Us. They explore the transformative power of music in the lives of incarcerated individuals, discussing how creative expression can facilitate healing, build trust, and foster connection. Dana shares her work with MFTF, the structure of the program, and the profound impact it has on participants, culminating in live performances that celebrate their compositions. The conversation emphasizes the importance of empathy, dignity, and the need for creative resources in rehabilitation.

Resources:

Project Music Heals Us-Website

Project Music Heals Us-Instagram

Music For The Future-Page

MFTF Celebration Concert-YouTube

Prison Exposed TikTok

Prison Exposed Instagram

In this episode, hosts Hope and Sahai engage in a profound conversation with Christopher Trenchfield, a victim of wrongful incarceration. Christopher shares his harrowing experience of being wrongfully arrested, and the systemic betrayal he felt at every turn. He recounts the subsequent abuse he endured while in detention, and discusses the role of the Remedy Project in advocating for his release. Christopher also reflects on the ongoing struggles he faces in reintegrating into society after his traumatic experience. This conversation sheds light on the systemic issues within the criminal justice system and the importance of advocacy and attention.

Resources-

****Christophers GoFundMe****

Criminal Justice Realm

To Keep The Work of The Remedy Project Going, Donate Here

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In this update episode of Prison Exposed, hosts Sahai and Hope sit down with Alex Mello to talk about what it means to navigate serious medical concerns inside the federal prison system, and how those experiences continue to shape life after release.

Alex recounts his experiences seeking care while incarcerated, including delayed follow-up, conflicting medical interpretations, and the structural barriers that shape how healthcare is delivered and denied. His story highlights how medical decision-making inside carceral settings is often filtered through institutional convenience rather than patient-centered care.

We also check in on how Alex is doing now, as he describes the difference in care he’s receiving and what it means to be taken seriously as a patient.

In addition, we share a brief update on Jerry Cooper.

In this episode of Prison Exposed, hosts Hope and Sahai discuss the recent prison reform bill signed by Governor Kathy Hochul, which aims to improve oversight in New York's correctional facilities. They explore the implications of the bill, particularly in light of the tragic case of Robert Brooks and Messiah Nantwi, who were killed by correctional officers. The conversation delves into the cultural issues within prisons, the need for accountability and transparency, and the importance of including formerly incarcerated voices in reform discussions. The hosts express skepticism about the effectiveness of the bill, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to prevent harm before it occurs.