The Locked up Living Podcast: Surviving and thriving in prisons and other challenging environments

By Podcasters David Jones & Dr Naomi MurphySociety & Culture Health & Fitness Mental Health True Crime

The Locked up Living Podcast: Surviving and thriving in prisons and other challenging environments episodes

July 30, 2025 Dr Warren Larkin (Video); The Power of Environment in Education
Keywords

clinical psychology, trauma, resilience, education, mental health, policy development, children and families, trauma-informed care, REACH model, well-being
Summary
In this conversation, Dr. Naomi Murphy and David Jones talk with Dr. Warren Larkin who describes his journey from a challenging educational background to becoming a clinical psychologist. He discusses the significant impact of environment on learning, particularly in relation to trauma and resilience. Dr. Larkin emphasizes the importance of working with children and families, advocating for trauma-informed approaches in education and mental health. He reflects on his experiences in policy development and the challenges of implementing trauma-informed care in various settings. The conversation also covers the REACH model, which focuses on routine inquiry about childhood adversity, and highlights the importance of safety and relationships in fostering well-being.
https://warrenlarkinassociates.co.uk/portfolio-items/routine-enquiry-about-adversity-in-childhood-reach-programme/
He is now managing director of Warren Larkin Associates which, among other things helps organisations recognise and respond more effectively to the needs of staff and clients affected by trauma.

https://warrenlarkinassociates.co.uk/

Takeaways

Warren Larkin's educational journey highlights the impact of supportive environments.
Trauma and resilience are crucial in educational settings.
Early intervention is important, but prevention is even better.
Policy changes often do not translate to practice changes.
The REACH model emphasizes routine inquiry about childhood adversity.
Creating safe environments is essential for effective trauma-informed care.
Relationships are key to resilience and well-being.
Social support is the most powerful factor in coping with stress.
Trauma-informed care is still not well understood in many settings.
There is a need for more robust evaluations of trauma-informed interventions.

Sound bites

"I left school with one O level and one CSE."
"I've never looked back since leaving the NHS."
"Relationships are the best medicine."

Chapters

00:00 Warren Larkin's Journey to Clinical Psychology
03:58 The Impact of Environment on Learning
05:39 Working with Children and Families
08:46 Trauma and Psychosis: A New Perspective
10:41 Policy Development and Challenges
16:25 Success Stories in Mental Health Policy
17:43 Transitioning to Private Practice
20:38 Navigating the NHS and Independent Work
24:53 The REACH Model: Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences
32:44 Barriers to Routine Inquiry in Healthcare
38:18 Trauma-Informed Care: Understanding and Application
43:50 Personal Well-Being: Balancing Work and Life
47 min
July 23, 2025Jennifer Gibson (Video); Revolutionizing Whistleblowing: The Psst Approach
keywords
whistleblowing, advocacy, tech industry, Psst, Jennifer Gibson, support systems, societal impact, collectivizing, mental health, legal support
summary
In this conversation, Jennifer Gibson, co-founder of Psst, discusses the challenges and importance of whistleblowing, particularly in the tech industry. She emphasizes the need for systemic support for whistleblowers, the risks they face, and the societal implications of silence. Jennifer advocates for a collectivized approach to whistleblowing, providing legal and emotional support to those who dare to speak up. The discussion also touches on the personal challenges faced by advocates in this field and the importance of ethical leadership in corporations.
Psst.org is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and relies donations to do its work. To learn more about their approach, you can visit www.psst.org or read this recent Wired profile of the organization: https://www.wired.com/story/amber-scorah-psst-tech-whistleblowers/. You can also sign up to their weekly substack: https://psstpsst.substack.com/. To make a donation, please go to www.psst.org/donate."

Please note; two names are wrongly spelled in the captions they’ are Amber Scorah and Rebecca Petras not Amber Sporoff and Rebecca Petrus
takeaways
Psst aims to revolutionize whistleblowing by providing systemic support.
Whistleblowers often risk everything for societal benefit.
Collectivizing whistleblowing can provide safety and support.
The tech industry presents unique challenges for whistleblowers.
Mental health support is crucial for whistleblowers.
The societal impact of silence can be detrimental.
Ethical leadership is needed in the corporate sector.
Whistleblowing can be a traumatic experience.
Advocates must take care of their own mental health.
Life in advocacy is a marathon, requiring resilience.

Sound Bites
"We need to hold power to account."
"The stakes are very high in tech."
"Life is a marathon, not a sprint."
Chapters
00:00Introduction to Whistleblowing and Psst
01:39Jennifer's Journey into Whistleblowing
04:51The Trauma of Whistleblowing
07:54Challenges in the Tech Industry
11:03The Risks of Speaking Up
14:29The Consequences of Silence
18:16The Collective Approach to Whistleblowing
20:50Support Systems for Whistleblowers
23:50Expanding the Model Beyond Tech
25:47Personal Challenges in Advocacy
34 min
July 23, 2025Jennifer Gibson (Audio); Revolutionizing whistleblowing. The Psst approach.
keywords
whistleblowing, advocacy, tech industry, Psst, Jennifer Gibson, support systems, societal impact, collectivizing, mental health, legal support
summary
In this conversation, Jennifer Gibson, co-founder of Psst, discusses the challenges and importance of whistleblowing, particularly in the tech industry. She emphasizes the need for systemic support for whistleblowers, the risks they face, and the societal implications of silence. Jennifer advocates for a collectivized approach to whistleblowing, providing legal and emotional support to those who dare to speak up. The discussion also touches on the personal challenges faced by advocates in this field and the importance of ethical leadership in corporations.
Psst.org is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and relies donations to do its work. To learn more about their approach, you can visit www.psst.org or read this recent Wired profile of the organization: https://www.wired.com/story/amber-scorah-psst-tech-whistleblowers/. You can also sign up to their weekly substack: https://psstpsst.substack.com/. To make a donation, please go to www.psst.org/donate."

Please note; two names are wrongly spelled in the captions they’ are Amber Scorah and Rebecca Petras not Amber Sporoff and Rebecca Petrus
takeaways
Psst aims to revolutionize whistleblowing by providing systemic support.
Whistleblowers often risk everything for societal benefit.
Collectivizing whistleblowing can provide safety and support.
The tech industry presents unique challenges for whistleblowers.
Mental health support is crucial for whistleblowers.
The societal impact of silence can be detrimental.
Ethical leadership is needed in the corporate sector.
Whistleblowing can be a traumatic experience.
Advocates must take care of their own mental health.
Life in advocacy is a marathon, requiring resilience.

Sound Bites
"We need to hold power to account."
"The stakes are very high in tech."
"Life is a marathon, not a sprint."
Chapters
00:00Introduction to Whistleblowing and Psst
01:39Jennifer's Journey into Whistleblowing
04:51The Trauma of Whistleblowing
07:54Challenges in the Tech Industry
11:03The Risks of Speaking Up
14:29The Consequences of Silence
18:16The Collective Approach to Whistleblowing
20:50Support Systems for Whistleblowers
23:50Expanding the Model Beyond Tech
25:47Personal Challenges in Advocacy
34 min
July 16, 2025 Dr Mitchell Abrams (Audio); Quantum Connections: The Science of the Heart
Keywords
energy medicine, heart health, quantum physics, compassion, healing, consciousness, spirituality, medical model, collective coherence, NextGenHealth

Summary
In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Mitchell Abrams discusses the profound connection between energy medicine, the heart, and consciousness. He shares his personal journey from a scientific background to exploring the emotional and spiritual dimensions of healing, emphasizing the heart's role in compassion and connection. The discussion delves into the relevance of quantum physics in medicine, the need for a new medical model that integrates compassion, and the importance of collective coherence in fostering a healthier society. Dr. Abrams also introduces his organization, NextGenHealth, which aims to cultivate deeper connections and understanding among individuals for a more compassionate world.

Takeaways
Mitch Abrams emphasizes the heart's role in healing beyond its physical function.
Personal experiences, such as heart surgery, can lead to profound shifts in understanding health and healing.
Quantum physics provides insights into the interconnectedness of all beings and the nature of reality.
Compassion and connection are essential for effective healing and healthcare.
The current medical model often neglects the emotional and spiritual aspects of health.
Collective coherence can significantly impact societal well-being and behavior.
There is a growing interest in integrating spirituality and science in medicine.
NextGenHealth aims to empower individuals to reclaim their agency in health and healing.
The importance of community and connection in personal and collective healing.
Journalists have a responsibility to balance negative narratives with positive stories that inspire hope.

Quantum Connections: The Science of the Heart
55 min
July 16, 2025 Dr. Mitchell Abrams (Video);Quantum Connections: The Science of the Heart
Keywords
energy medicine, heart health, quantum physics, compassion, healing, consciousness, spirituality, medical model, collective coherence, NextGenHealth

Summary
In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Mitchell Abrams discusses the profound connection between energy medicine, the heart, and consciousness. He shares his personal journey from a scientific background to exploring the emotional and spiritual dimensions of healing, emphasizing the heart's role in compassion and connection. The discussion delves into the relevance of quantum physics in medicine, the need for a new medical model that integrates compassion, and the importance of collective coherence in fostering a healthier society. Dr. Abrams also introduces his organization, NextGenHealth, which aims to cultivate deeper connections and understanding among individuals for a more compassionate world.

Takeaways
Mitch Abrams emphasizes the heart's role in healing beyond its physical function.
Personal experiences, such as heart surgery, can lead to profound shifts in understanding health and healing.
Quantum physics provides insights into the interconnectedness of all beings and the nature of reality.
Compassion and connection are essential for effective healing and healthcare.
The current medical model often neglects the emotional and spiritual aspects of health.
Collective coherence can significantly impact societal well-being and behavior.
There is a growing interest in integrating spirituality and science in medicine.
NextGenHealth aims to empower individuals to reclaim their agency in health and healing.
The importance of community and connection in personal and collective healing.
Journalists have a responsibility to balance negative narratives with positive stories that inspire hope.

55 min
July 09, 2025Deborah Jump (Audio); The Impact of Boxing on Youth Violence
Keywords
boxing, youth violence, criminology, masculinity, trauma, desistance, community, mental health, gender, sports sociology
Summary
In this conversation, Deborah Jump discusses her extensive research on the intersection of boxing, youth violence, and masculinity. She explores why boxing is particularly appealing to young men at risk of crime, the complex relationship between boxing and violence, and the societal perceptions surrounding the sport. Jump emphasizes the psychological aspects of boxing, including how it can reinforce notions of masculinity and respect, while also providing a sense of community and routine. She reflects on the benefits and drawbacks of boxing as a sport, particularly in relation to mental health and trauma, and shares her transition from studying boxing to focusing on forensic studies in youth violence.
Takeaways
Boxing is appealing to young men as it allows them to rehearse masculine identities.
The sport can create a community that fosters strength and power.
Boxing may reinforce the idea that violence is an acceptable solution.
Respect in boxing culture can often be rooted in fear.
There is no substantial evidence linking boxing to crime reduction.
Boxing can have positive impacts on mental health, such as reducing anxiety.
The culture of boxing can perpetuate harmful messages about violence.
Young women also use boxing to reclaim ownership of their bodies.
Therapy is essential for those working in trauma-related fields.
The motivations for engaging in boxing can be complex and multifaceted.

Deborah Jump is the co-director for the Manchester Centre for Youth Studies at Manchester Metropolitan University and she has 20 years experience of working in youth justice as both a practitioner and a manager. Deborah's current research focuses on trauma and youth justice with a particular interest in the impact of serious youth violence and forensic psychotherapeutic methods. She is training to be a psychoanalytic psychotherapist
32 min
July 09, 2025Deborah Jump (Video); The Impact of Boxing on Youth Violence
Keywords
boxing, youth violence, criminology, masculinity, trauma, desistance, community, mental health, gender, sports sociology
Summary
In this conversation, Deborah Jump discusses her extensive research on the intersection of boxing, youth violence, and masculinity. She explores why boxing is particularly appealing to young men at risk of crime, the complex relationship between boxing and violence, and the societal perceptions surrounding the sport. Jump emphasizes the psychological aspects of boxing, including how it can reinforce notions of masculinity and respect, while also providing a sense of community and routine. She reflects on the benefits and drawbacks of boxing as a sport, particularly in relation to mental health and trauma, and shares her transition from studying boxing to focusing on forensic studies in youth violence.
Takeaways
Boxing is appealing to young men as it allows them to rehearse masculine identities.
The sport can create a community that fosters strength and power.
Boxing may reinforce the idea that violence is an acceptable solution.
Respect in boxing culture can often be rooted in fear.
There is no substantial evidence linking boxing to crime reduction.
Boxing can have positive impacts on mental health, such as reducing anxiety.
The culture of boxing can perpetuate harmful messages about violence.
Young women also use boxing to reclaim ownership of their bodies.
Therapy is essential for those working in trauma-related fields.
The motivations for engaging in boxing can be complex and multifaceted.

Deborah Jump is the co-director for the Manchester Centre for Youth Studies at Manchester Metropolitan University and she has 20 years experience of working in youth justice as both a practitioner and a manager. Deborah's current research focuses on trauma and youth justice with a particular interest in the impact of serious youth violence and forensic psychotherapeutic methods. She is training to be a psychoanalytic psychotherapist
32 min
July 02, 2025Simon Scott (Audio); The Parole Process: A Barrier to Community Integration?
Keywords
criminal justice, parole, life sentences, probation, reintegration, mental health, support systems, identity, relationships, research
Takeaways
Preparation for parole does not equate to preparation for community life.
The parole board's focus is on compliance rather than personal growth.
Academic credentials can provide a pathway for reintegration.
Probation often lacks effective support for individuals on life sentences.
Institutionalization can hinder personal development post-release.
Access to housing and employment is a significant challenge for released individuals.
Relationships are crucial for successful reintegration but often lack support.
Disclosure of past convictions can complicate personal relationships.
Identity management is a complex issue for those released from prison.
Lived experience should inform criminal justice policy and practice.
Summary
In this episode of the Locked Up Living podcast, Naomi Murphy and David Jones speak with Simon Scott, who shares his extensive experience in the criminal justice system, both as a former inmate and as a professional working in the field. They discuss the challenges faced by individuals preparing for parole and the stark contrast between that preparation and the realities of life in the community. Simon reflects on his academic journey, the inadequacies of probation support, and the complexities of reintegrating into society after a long prison sentence. The conversation highlights the importance of relationships, mental health support, and the need for a more empathetic and informed approach to criminal justice policy.
58 min
July 02, 2025Simon Scott (Video); The Parole Process: A Barrier to Community Integration?
Keywords
criminal justice, parole, life sentences, probation, reintegration, mental health, support systems, identity, relationships, research
Takeaways
Preparation for parole does not equate to preparation for community life.
The parole board's focus is on compliance rather than personal growth.
Academic credentials can provide a pathway for reintegration.
Probation often lacks effective support for individuals on life sentences.
Institutionalization can hinder personal development post-release.
Access to housing and employment is a significant challenge for released individuals.
Relationships are crucial for successful reintegration but often lack support.
Disclosure of past convictions can complicate personal relationships.
Identity management is a complex issue for those released from prison.
Lived experience should inform criminal justice policy and practice.
Summary
In this episode of the Locked Up Living podcast, Naomi Murphy and David Jones speak with Simon Scott, who shares his extensive experience in the criminal justice system, both as a former inmate and as a professional working in the field. They discuss the challenges faced by individuals preparing for parole and the stark contrast between that preparation and the realities of life in the community. Simon reflects on his academic journey, the inadequacies of probation support, and the complexities of reintegrating into society after a long prison sentence. The conversation highlights the importance of relationships, mental health support, and the need for a more empathetic and informed approach to criminal justice policy.
58 min
June 25, 2025Eppie Sprung (Video); Navigating Life After Conviction: Eppie's Story
keywords
Next Chapter Scotland, stigma, parenting, criminal justice, children's book, identity, mental health, support, resilience, sexual offences.
summary
In this conversation, with David and |Naomi Eppie Sprung, the founder of Next Chapter Scotland, shares her journey of navigating life after a conviction for a sexual offense. She discusses the inspiration behind her children's book (Here with You) aimed at helping parents talk to their children about difficult pasts. Eppie reflects on the stigma she faces, her identity as a mother, and the importance of honesty in family conversations. She emphasizes the need for compassion and understanding in the criminal justice system and shares her strategies for coping with media attention and personal challenges.
In August Next Chapter Scotland will be launching a Scotland-wide report into the impacts faced by people who have been involved with the criminal justice system and calling for the system-wide changes.
www.herewithyoubook.co.uk
www.nextchapterscotland.org.uk

takeaways
Eppie's book aims to facilitate conversations about difficult pasts.
Stigma and discrimination are significant challenges for those with criminal records.
The importance of community support in overcoming personal challenges.
Eppie's identity as a mother is central to her healing process.
Honesty with children about the past fosters trust and understanding.
Self-compassion is crucial for mental well-being.
Eppie believes in the potential for change and redemption.
The media's portrayal of individuals with convictions can be harmful.
Eppie's charity focuses on helping others navigate their pasts.
Creating a supportive environment is essential for healing.
33 min

About The Locked up Living Podcast: Surviving and thriving in prisons and other challenging environments

From the publisher's feed

Can institutional culture challenge your mental health? What if your job makes you feel shame, sadness, grief, disgust and fear? What if you are expected not to feel? Or you are expected to be…