In this episode, Daniel Rosen, a justice reform advocate and formerly incarcerated individual, discusses the critical issues surrounding prison food, health, and nutrition. We explore how current prison diets impact physical and mental health, the potential for reform through local food programs, and the importance of policy change.

Support the show

"Have you ever felt invisible just because of how you look? Here's why 'humanizing' common stereotypes changes everything."
Drop a ✊ if you've ever experienced this feeling.

When I started wearing hoodies in class, people told me I’d be judged—until I realized clothing is just a tool for identity, not a barrier to respect.
By wearing my hoodie, I challenged biases and opened up space for real conversations about justice—whether in prisons, schools, or communities.
It’s powerful to see humanity behind the hoodie — the stories, struggles, and resilience. (JMS)
What do your clothes say about you?

#HumanizeMyHoodie #AbolitionInAction #CommunityOverCorrection #BlackVoices

Support the show

In this engaging interview, Pete Bludworth from Corrections Unfiltered shares his extensive corrections career, insights into private corrections, and the importance of transparency and understanding in the correctional system. The conversation covers topics from inmate reentry to trauma, community trust, and innovative programs that support both staff and inmates.

Corrections Unfiltered: https://www.youtube.com/@CorrectionsUnfiltered

(c) PrisonPOD Productions

Support the show

In this compelling interview, Lorenzo Trout shares his transformative journey from trauma and incarceration to becoming a mentor and advocate for justice-involved individuals. Discover insights on trauma, recovery, community support, and innovative programs like equine therapy that foster healing and reintegration.

Support the show

In this episode of the Prison Pod, Valerie Cartonio speaks with Paula Fox, who shares her experiences in prison ministry, particularly focusing on the Kairos program, Crossroads Prison Ministry, and the Jump Start Employment Reentry program. Paula discusses the importance of faith-based support, the challenges of reentry for individuals coming out of prison, and the stigma surrounding sex offenses. She emphasizes the need for community integration, financial responsibility, and the importance of hope and encouragement for those affected by incarceration.

Support the show

In this episode of the Prison Pod, Valerie Cartonio interviews Caroline Georgiou, a sound therapist specializing in somatic practices. Caroline discusses her innovative approach to healing and rehabilitation in prison settings, focusing on the use of sound therapy to help inmates reconnect with their bodies and emotions. She shares insights into the process of somatic counseling, the impact of her work on participants, and the importance of creating a safe space for healing. The conversation also touches on the challenges and rewards of working in prisons, the significance of community support, and the deeper understanding of freedom and self-discovery that emerges through this transformative work.

Support the show

In this episode of the Prison Pod, Valerie Cartonio speaks with Brian Koehn, founder and CEO of Social Purpose Corrections. They discuss the need for reform in the corrections system, focusing on reducing recidivism and improving the culture within prisons. Brian shares his journey from military service to corrections, highlighting the challenges and inefficiencies he observed in the system. He emphasizes the importance of compassion, innovation, and human connection in corrections, advocating for a shift in how society views and treats incarcerated individuals. The conversation also touches on best practices from other countries and the potential for nonprofit models to drive change in the U.S. corrections system. 

Support the show

• In this episode of the Prison Pod, host Valerie Cartonio speaks with Dr. Karen Gedney, a former prison physician with 30 years of experience in the correctional system. Dr. Gedney shares her journey from being a curious young girl with dreams of becoming a doctor to her unexpected role as a prison doctor, where she faced numerous challenges, including being taken hostage. She discusses her commitment to prison reform and her current work with nonprofits that support the incarcerated population. Dr. Gedney emphasizes the importance of human connection and empathy in the prison system, highlighting programs like the Alternative Violence Project that foster understanding between inmates and the community.

Support the show

In this episode of The Prison Pod, host Valerie Cartonio welcomes Sephria Reynolds-Tanner, a criminal justice and drug policy analyst at the Reason Foundation. Sephria shares her journey from working as a probation and parole officer in Washington to her current role, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based practices in criminal justice reform. She discusses the barriers individuals face upon reentry into society, such as the lack of necessary identification documents, and advocates for incorporating lived experiences into policy-making to better support those affected by the justice system.

Support the show

In this episode of the Prison Pod, Valerie Cartonio speaks with Mitch Pearlstein about the concept of second chance hiring, addressing the myths and facts surrounding the employment of individuals with criminal records. They discuss the economic and ethical necessity of providing job opportunities to this population, the importance of trades and job training, and the role of education and reentry programs. The conversation also touches on the significance of empathy in hiring practices and the mental health challenges faced by those reentering society. Pearlstein emphasizes the need for better programs and collaboration with outside agencies to support successful reintegration into the workforce.

His Book : Second Chance Hiring: An Economic and Ethical Necessity can be found on Amazon.com

Support the show