Prison Officer Podcast

Philip W. Parker, former warden of Kentucky State Penitentiary, joins us to share his remarkable story from rural Kentucky roots to overseeing maximum-security operations. Listen as Philip recounts his unique career trajectory, beginning with a chance encounter while teaching karate that led him to the world of corrections. As we walk through the corridors of history with Philip, we explore the evolution of terminology in the corrections field. The shift from being called a "guard" to "correctional officer" marked an era of transformation aimed at recognizing the professionalism and humanity in the role.

From thrilling tales of prison escapes to the solemn duty of overseeing executions, this episode captures the multifaceted nature of a career in corrections. Philip shares his decades-long journey, emphasizing the persistent need for mental health resources and peer support.

His book, "Guard," serves as a testament to the courage and resilience of those working behind the walls, urging listeners to appreciate the unsung heroism of correctional officers and prioritize their own well-being.

Guard: A True Story of Duty, Sacrifice, and Leadership in Kentucky's Maximum Security Penitentiary

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NEW RELEASE — The Weight of Justice: Leadership Lessons from Inside America's Toughest Prisons: A Correctional Officer's Journey

Buy on Amazon or Kindle: https://amzn.to/3PLr5tR

Available worldwide through Books2Read: https://books2read.com/WeightofJustice

POWER SKILLS: Emotional Intelligence and Soft Skills for Correctional Officers, First Responders, and Beyond

Available on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4mBeog5

See Michael's books and author updates at:
 www.CantrellWrites.com

🎙️ Support The Prison Officer Podcast

Go deeper with The Prison Officer Podcast on Patreon. Inside Behind the Wall, you'll get:

• Exclusive content
 • Behind-the-scenes insights
 • Leadership discussions
 • Bonus episodes and resources

👉 Join here: https://www.patreon.com/ThePrisonOfficer

📬 Connect with Michael

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePrisonOfficer

Website: www.theprisonofficer.com

Take care of each other and be safe behind those walls and fences.

#prisonofficerpodcast 

In this episode of the basics, I talk about what it takes to have Success in Corrections. The Basic, common sense attributes and work habits of a good correctional officer.  Listen as I talk about Correctional Basics every rookie should know, and every veteran officer should already be doing...who knows...everyone needs a refresher sometimes.

Keys to Your New Career: Information and Guidance to Get Hired and Be Successful as a Correctional or Detention Officer by Michael Cantrell

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Support the show

NEW RELEASE — The Weight of Justice: Leadership Lessons from Inside America's Toughest Prisons: A Correctional Officer's Journey

Buy on Amazon or Kindle: https://amzn.to/3PLr5tR

Available worldwide through Books2Read: https://books2read.com/WeightofJustice

POWER SKILLS: Emotional Intelligence and Soft Skills for Correctional Officers, First Responders, and Beyond

Available on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4mBeog5

See Michael's books and author updates at:
 www.CantrellWrites.com

🎙️ Support The Prison Officer Podcast

Go deeper with The Prison Officer Podcast on Patreon. Inside Behind the Wall, you'll get:

• Exclusive content
 • Behind-the-scenes insights
 • Leadership discussions
 • Bonus episodes and resources

👉 Join here: https://www.patreon.com/ThePrisonOfficer

📬 Connect with Michael

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePrisonOfficer

Website: www.theprisonofficer.com

Take care of each other and be safe behind those walls and fences.

#prisonofficerpodcast 

Unlock the secrets of successful correctional leadership as we recap an incredible year for the Prison Officer Podcast. We've reached new heights by launching on YouTube, and growing our audience worldwide.  I tackle pressing issues like staffing challenges, emphasizing the crucial role of a positive workplace culture that prioritizes safety, leadership, and growth. By fostering an environment of trust and teamwork, leaders can unlock potential and drive innovation within their teams.

As we reflect on a year of growth and connection, our gratitude for your support knows no bounds. The holiday season serves as a reminder to nurture personal relationships and leave workplace stress behind, cherishing the support of family and loved ones. We are eager to continue this journey with you into 2025, featuring more fascinating stories and individuals from the corrections field. Warm holiday wishes to everyone in our community—your enthusiasm fuels our passion, and we can't wait to bring you more compelling content in the new year.

Leadership Field Manual For Correctional Professionals by Bryan Antonelli

Guard: A True Story of Duty, Sacrifice, and Leadership in Kentucky's Maximum Security Penitentiary by Phillip Parker

Trained To Change: The Unfortunate and Unintentional Consequences of the Correctional Curriculum by William Young

Keys to Your New Career: Information and Guidance to Get Hired and Be Successful as a Correctional or Detention Officer by Michael Cantrell

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

NEW RELEASE — The Weight of Justice: Leadership Lessons from Inside America's Toughest Prisons: A Correctional Officer's Journey

Buy on Amazon or Kindle: https://amzn.to/3PLr5tR

Available worldwide through Books2Read: https://books2read.com/WeightofJustice

POWER SKILLS: Emotional Intelligence and Soft Skills for Correctional Officers, First Responders, and Beyond

Available on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4mBeog5

See Michael's books and author updates at:
 www.CantrellWrites.com

🎙️ Support The Prison Officer Podcast

Go deeper with The Prison Officer Podcast on Patreon. Inside Behind the Wall, you'll get:

• Exclusive content
 • Behind-the-scenes insights
 • Leadership discussions
 • Bonus episodes and resources

👉 Join here: https://www.patreon.com/ThePrisonOfficer

📬 Connect with Michael

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePrisonOfficer

Website: www.theprisonofficer.com

Take care of each other and be safe behind those walls and fences.

#prisonofficerpodcast 

Former special investigative agent Steve Hansen joins us to shed light on a career filled with intense experiences and unique insights into the world of federal corrections. From his humble beginnings in a small Iowa town to navigating the complexities of federal prisons, Steve's story is one of dedication and resilience.

Steve's career journey is nothing short of remarkable, marked by significant events like the volatile "Crack Law Riots" at Greenville.  Discover the challenges he encountered while managing federal medical centers dealing with mental health issues among inmates, and the intricacies of transitioning into investigative roles.

Beyond the bars, Steve's story doesn't end with retirement. Instead, he shares his inspiring transition into an overseas role, where he applied his investigative expertise in Afghanistan, contributing to US peace efforts. His narrative emphasizes the possibilities awaiting those in corrections post-retirement, urging professionals to pursue fulfilling roles that maximize their hard-earned skills.

To contact Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-hansen-634129122/

Click here to buy one of the books by Host Michael Cantrell -

Keys to Your New Career: Information and Guidance to Get Hired and Be Successful as a Correctional or Detention Officer http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DFWYSFMK/ref=nosim?tag=prisonoffic05-20

Finding Your Purpose: Crafting a Personal Vision Statement to Guide Your Life and Career http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BW344T4B/ref=nosim?tag=prisonoffic05-20

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

NEW RELEASE — The Weight of Justice: Leadership Lessons from Inside America's Toughest Prisons: A Correctional Officer's Journey

Buy on Amazon or Kindle: https://amzn.to/3PLr5tR

Available worldwide through Books2Read: https://books2read.com/WeightofJustice

POWER SKILLS: Emotional Intelligence and Soft Skills for Correctional Officers, First Responders, and Beyond

Available on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4mBeog5

See Michael's books and author updates at:
 www.CantrellWrites.com

🎙️ Support The Prison Officer Podcast

Go deeper with The Prison Officer Podcast on Patreon. Inside Behind the Wall, you'll get:

• Exclusive content
 • Behind-the-scenes insights
 • Leadership discussions
 • Bonus episodes and resources

👉 Join here: https://www.patreon.com/ThePrisonOfficer

📬 Connect with Michael

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePrisonOfficer

Website: www.theprisonofficer.com

Take care of each other and be safe behind those walls and fences.

#prisonofficerpodcast 

Inspired by his grandfather, Michael Warren's foray into law enforcement was destined from the start, rooted in a rich family tradition of public service. Michael, the Director of Training for Command Presence and host of the Faces of Leadership podcast, joins us to share his unique journey.  Michael brings a treasure trove of experiences that illuminate the passion and tradition that have shaped his career. His anecdotes offer a captivating window into the unpredictable, yet rewarding world of law enforcement.

Training and development take center stage as Michael shares his insights on transformative programs that elevate the law enforcement and corrections fields. We delve into Command Presence's innovative training methods like "Transformational Trainer" and the "Leading When It Hits The Fan" program, which focuses on building emotional intelligence and effective leadership. Michael highlights the crucial role of trainers and informal leaders, emphasizing the importance of selecting the right individuals who can foster a culture of continuous learning. Join us as we explore how these elements are key to creating safer and more effective work environments for Law Enforcement and Correctional professionals.

Michael Warren [email protected]

Command Presence https://www.commandpresence.net/

Command Presence Correctional Courses

Host a Command Presence Course at Your Agency

Faces of Leadership podcast

Training at the Speed of Life, Vol 1: The Definitive Textbook for Police and Military Reality-Based Training 

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

NEW RELEASE — The Weight of Justice: Leadership Lessons from Inside America's Toughest Prisons: A Correctional Officer's Journey

Buy on Amazon or Kindle: https://amzn.to/3PLr5tR

Available worldwide through Books2Read: https://books2read.com/WeightofJustice

POWER SKILLS: Emotional Intelligence and Soft Skills for Correctional Officers, First Responders, and Beyond

Available on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4mBeog5

See Michael's books and author updates at:
 www.CantrellWrites.com

🎙️ Support The Prison Officer Podcast

Go deeper with The Prison Officer Podcast on Patreon. Inside Behind the Wall, you'll get:

• Exclusive content
 • Behind-the-scenes insights
 • Leadership discussions
 • Bonus episodes and resources

👉 Join here: https://www.patreon.com/ThePrisonOfficer

📬 Connect with Michael

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePrisonOfficer

Website: www.theprisonofficer.com

Take care of each other and be safe behind those walls and fences.

#prisonofficerpodcast 

What if I told you that the toughest challenges in the corrections field could turn into your greatest opportunities for growth? I explore my journey through the demanding landscape of corrections and shed light on a world that requires incredible resilience and determination. A recent e-mail from a correctional officer grappling with the aftermath of a workplace riot sets the stage for a broader discussion on the vital role of a supportive work culture. I highlight passion, culture, expectations, and leadership as the keys to longevity in this career.

Need help finding your passion?  My workbook will walk you through the steps from:

Finding Your Purpose: Crafting a Personal Vision Statement to Guide Your Life and Career! by Michael Cantrell

Jocko Podcast - Good! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IdTMDpizis8

Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink & Lief Babin https://a.co/d/iw40nzG

Keys to Your New Career: Information and Guidance to Get Hired and Be Successful as a Correctional or Detention Officer by Michael Cantrell

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

NEW RELEASE — The Weight of Justice: Leadership Lessons from Inside America's Toughest Prisons: A Correctional Officer's Journey

Buy on Amazon or Kindle: https://amzn.to/3PLr5tR

Available worldwide through Books2Read: https://books2read.com/WeightofJustice

POWER SKILLS: Emotional Intelligence and Soft Skills for Correctional Officers, First Responders, and Beyond

Available on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4mBeog5

See Michael's books and author updates at:
 www.CantrellWrites.com

🎙️ Support The Prison Officer Podcast

Go deeper with The Prison Officer Podcast on Patreon. Inside Behind the Wall, you'll get:

• Exclusive content
 • Behind-the-scenes insights
 • Leadership discussions
 • Bonus episodes and resources

👉 Join here: https://www.patreon.com/ThePrisonOfficer

📬 Connect with Michael

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePrisonOfficer

Website: www.theprisonofficer.com

Take care of each other and be safe behind those walls and fences.

#prisonofficerpodcast 

What if the key to managing conflicts in corrections is as simple as mastering the art of listening? Join us as we examine the evolution of de-escalation techniques, starting from the era of "verbal judo" to contemporary methods centered on active listening and emotional regulation. You'll learn why truly hearing and understanding the other person can be transformative, not just in corrections but also in law enforcement, nursing, and dispatch roles. We underscore the critical role of listening in managing tensions and preventing conflicts.

Have you ever wondered if less-lethal and non-lethal tools like Pepperball can be effective forms of de-escalation? Sometimes the mere presence of a non-lethal system or the professional appearance of a respected correctional officer is all that is needed. 

This episode weighs the effectiveness of traditional force versus modern de-escalation tactics, emphasizing the importance of attempting de-escalation first to mitigate injuries and liabilities. Discover how strategic, less confrontational approaches can be game-changers in handling disruptive inmates.

Finding Your Purpose: Crafting a Personal Vision Statement to Guide Your Life and Career! by Michael Cantrell

Keys to Your New Career: Information and Guidance to Get Hired and Be Successful as a Correctional or Detention Officer by Michael Cantrell

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

NEW RELEASE — The Weight of Justice: Leadership Lessons from Inside America's Toughest Prisons: A Correctional Officer's Journey

Buy on Amazon or Kindle: https://amzn.to/3PLr5tR

Available worldwide through Books2Read: https://books2read.com/WeightofJustice

POWER SKILLS: Emotional Intelligence and Soft Skills for Correctional Officers, First Responders, and Beyond

Available on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4mBeog5

See Michael's books and author updates at:
 www.CantrellWrites.com

🎙️ Support The Prison Officer Podcast

Go deeper with The Prison Officer Podcast on Patreon. Inside Behind the Wall, you'll get:

• Exclusive content
 • Behind-the-scenes insights
 • Leadership discussions
 • Bonus episodes and resources

👉 Join here: https://www.patreon.com/ThePrisonOfficer

📬 Connect with Michael

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePrisonOfficer

Website: www.theprisonofficer.com

Take care of each other and be safe behind those walls and fences.

#prisonofficerpodcast 

Meet Adam Dennis, a 28-year law enforcement/corrections veteran, who shares his early days, influenced by his father's advice and his brother's positive experiences, as he navigates through a career filled with challenges and unexpected culture shocks. From playing college baseball to earning a criminology degree, Adam's journey is inspiring and eye-opening.

Adam helps uncover the inner workings of specialized correctional teams, as he delves into the importance of units like CERT and HNT teams. He emphasizes the camaraderie, accountability, and professionalism that these roles demand, along with the leadership qualities that can make or break a team.  Adam illustrates how trust, delegation, and high standards in training are crucial for effective team dynamics. His stories bring to life the intense and often unseen world of correctional facilities, shedding light on the importance of leadership and team cohesion.

To contact Adam:

[email protected]
https://defense-technology.policeoneacademy.com/ 

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

NEW RELEASE — The Weight of Justice: Leadership Lessons from Inside America's Toughest Prisons: A Correctional Officer's Journey

Buy on Amazon or Kindle: https://amzn.to/3PLr5tR

Available worldwide through Books2Read: https://books2read.com/WeightofJustice

POWER SKILLS: Emotional Intelligence and Soft Skills for Correctional Officers, First Responders, and Beyond

Available on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4mBeog5

See Michael's books and author updates at:
 www.CantrellWrites.com

🎙️ Support The Prison Officer Podcast

Go deeper with The Prison Officer Podcast on Patreon. Inside Behind the Wall, you'll get:

• Exclusive content
 • Behind-the-scenes insights
 • Leadership discussions
 • Bonus episodes and resources

👉 Join here: https://www.patreon.com/ThePrisonOfficer

📬 Connect with Michael

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePrisonOfficer

Website: www.theprisonofficer.com

Take care of each other and be safe behind those walls and fences.

#prisonofficerpodcast 

Join us live from the Missouri Correctional Association and Missouri Probation and Parole Officers Association fall conference at the stunning Lodge of the Four Seasons in Lake of the Ozarks. Learn about suicide prevention from the critical support provided by the 988 national suicide hotline. Hear inspiring conversations with Major Ognenovski from the Chillicothe Correctional Center about managing a female correctional facility, and the innovative developments at St. Charles County’s correctional facility with Director Dan Keen.  Learn about the Correctional Peace Officers Foundation with CPO Field Representative - Wayne Bowdry.

I  also highlight the new correctional classes from Command Presence and discuss how we can educate and train your officers.

Kurt Dudenhoeffer
National Suicide Hotline: 988
https://www.saferhomescollaborative.org/
[email protected]
314-516-8400

Major Ognenovski
Chillicothe Correctional Center
https://doc.mo.gov/

Director Dan Keen
St Charles County Department of Corrections
https://www.sccmo.org/
[email protected]

CPO Field Representative - Wayne Bowdry
Kentucky Field Representative
[email protected]

Missouri Correctional Association
https://mocorrectionsassociation.org/

Missouri Probation and Parole Association
https://www.facebook.com/ContactMPPOA/

Lodge of the Four Seasons
https://4seasonsresort.com/

Finding Your Purpose: Crafting a Personal Vision Statement to Guide Your Life and Career! by Michael Cantrell

Keys to Your New Career: Information and Guidance to Get Hired and Be Successful as a Correctional or Detention Officer by Michael Cantrell

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

NEW RELEASE — The Weight of Justice: Leadership Lessons from Inside America's Toughest Prisons: A Correctional Officer's Journey

Buy on Amazon or Kindle: https://amzn.to/3PLr5tR

Available worldwide through Books2Read: https://books2read.com/WeightofJustice

POWER SKILLS: Emotional Intelligence and Soft Skills for Correctional Officers, First Responders, and Beyond

Available on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4mBeog5

See Michael's books and author updates at:
 www.CantrellWrites.com

🎙️ Support The Prison Officer Podcast

Go deeper with The Prison Officer Podcast on Patreon. Inside Behind the Wall, you'll get:

• Exclusive content
 • Behind-the-scenes insights
 • Leadership discussions
 • Bonus episodes and resources

👉 Join here: https://www.patreon.com/ThePrisonOfficer

📬 Connect with Michael

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePrisonOfficer

Website: www.theprisonofficer.com

Take care of each other and be safe behind those walls and fences.

#prisonofficerpodcast 

Join me on this week's Prison Officer Podcast as I bring you an exclusive update from the Missouri Correctional Association and the MPPOA conference. You'll also get a sneak peek into my classes on "Essentials in Correctional Excellence" and "Leading Without Rank," where I’ll share practical leadership strategies at all levels, regardless of your rank.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

NEW RELEASE — The Weight of Justice: Leadership Lessons from Inside America's Toughest Prisons: A Correctional Officer's Journey

Buy on Amazon or Kindle: https://amzn.to/3PLr5tR

Available worldwide through Books2Read: https://books2read.com/WeightofJustice

POWER SKILLS: Emotional Intelligence and Soft Skills for Correctional Officers, First Responders, and Beyond

Available on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4mBeog5

See Michael's books and author updates at:
 www.CantrellWrites.com

🎙️ Support The Prison Officer Podcast

Go deeper with The Prison Officer Podcast on Patreon. Inside Behind the Wall, you'll get:

• Exclusive content
 • Behind-the-scenes insights
 • Leadership discussions
 • Bonus episodes and resources

👉 Join here: https://www.patreon.com/ThePrisonOfficer

📬 Connect with Michael

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePrisonOfficer

Website: www.theprisonofficer.com

Take care of each other and be safe behind those walls and fences.

#prisonofficerpodcast