By Michael Cantrell
The Prison Officer Podcast is a place where prison officers and correctional staff share their experiences, discuss leadership, cope with stress, and learn survival strategies for one of the
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The podcast currently has 95 episodes available.
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In the realm of correctional facilities, the roles and challenges of those who maintain order are often misunderstood and overlooked. Doyle discusses the trajectory of becoming deeply involved in union activities, from his early days in law enforcement to his current role in advocating for the welfare of correctional employees.
He outlines the initiatives taken by the National Correctional Employees Union to improve health, retirement programs, and training opportunities for their members. Our conversation reveals the unique benefits provided by the union, often surpassing those offered by state or county employers, highlighting the union's dedication to their members' well-being.
Bill Doyle [email protected]
National Correctional Employees Union - https://www.nceu.org/
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In this episode, I speak with Commissioner William Marshall and get an inside look at the West Virginia Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. We learn about his path from State Police to Corrections Commissioner. We discuss the department's evolution into more training, enhanced career paths, and the future of corrections.
We also discuss the West Virginia Department of Corrections rebranding initiatives, which include a new logo and enhanced public relations. These efforts signify a fresh commitment to the community and the department's visibility.
As we explore the department's history and future, we learn about the legacy of the annual Mock Riot event, hosted in West Virginia, which is a cornerstone for training and networking among correctional professionals. It's not merely an event, but a congregation of experts from across the globe, where real-world scenarios are simulated, strategies are exchanged, and camaraderie is built. The Mock Riot stands as a testament to the relentless pursuit of excellence and preparedness in the field.
West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation - https://dcr.wv.gov/
The MOCK Riot - https://www.mockprisonriot.org/
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Joe Gunja's career trajectory from a military police officer to a regional director is not just a tale of personal achievement, but also a story of the varying levels of inmate-related issues and the work required in the different roles. Joe reveals a career where promotions often come with intricate challenges and highlights the importance of adaptability and leadership in correctional environments.
We confront hard truths about the placement of the severely mentally ill behind bars, examining the sobering challenges within mental health units and the psychological toll on both inmates and staff.
Joe explains his role as an expert witness in correctional cases, providing insights into the courtroom battles that often remain unseen by the public eye.
Joseph Gunja [email protected]
SIMCO - Jail, Prison, and Corrections Expert Witness Consultation Services https://simco1.com/
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A prison is a place of violence. Pretty quickly, as they begin their sentence inside, other inmates categorize each other as Predator or Prey. As a Hunter or the Hunted. Their role is determined by whether or not they have the strength to stand up against the other inmates. Will they run and hide in their cell, or will they stand and fight? Will they be abused, or will they be the abuser? Lion or antelope is the choice most have in a violent system.
Staff are often looked at the same way. Are you the Hunter or are you the Prey. Success for the prey is measured by just living another day. "Eight and the gate." But a lack of respect for the other predators makes you unaware, unprepared, and nothing more than a person to be used and manipulated.
Success for the Hunter is a successful hunt. An officer who is a Hunter is respected for their skills and their abilities. Remember, most of the time a lion lives alongside the antelope. The antelope keep a respectful distance but they are not living in constant fear of the lion. The lion has nothing to prove, he knows he is King. He knows he is an apex predator, and walks comfortably in his surroundings, not unaware, but comfortable with his skills.
PepperBallSupport the Show.
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Walking the corridors of HMP Manchester, former Prison Officer and author Neil Samworth—known as Sam—witnessed the stark realities of prison life, a tale he recounts with raw honesty in "Strange Ways: A Prison Officer's Story." Join us as we step into Sam's world, where the line between guard and guarded blurs, and where humanity faces its toughest tests. Our conversation traverses the emotional terrain of a profession that demands resilience in the face of daily confrontations with society's darkest elements.
We talk about it the good, the bad, and the ugly, including his personal struggle with PTSD.
Real Porridge with Sam Samworth https://www.youtube.com/c/RealPorridgePodcast
Strangeways: A Prison Officers Story - Sam Samworth
Strangeways Unlocked: The Shocking Truth about Life Behind Bars - Sam Samworth
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His four decades in the Bureau of Prisons have equipped him with a library of stories, and in our latest episode, Art's candid reflections peel back the curtain on the daily grind of corrections work, from the first clang of the prison doors to the intricate challenges of managing inmate programs. His tales are not just a narrative of personal growth within the Bureau but a masterclass on the evolution of federal prison systems and the strategic navigation of career progression within such a demanding field.
The landscape of correctional work is fraught with complexities, and Art doesn't shy away from discussing the nuances of his profession. He delves into the transformation of work programs, and the unique considerations when overseeing diverse inmate populations. Post-retirement hasn't slowed Art down; he continues to impact the field through his consultancy and auditing roles, emphasizing the significance of the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) and the importance of maintaining a humane approach within the industry's strict regulations.
You can reach Art here: [email protected]
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This episode doesn't just chronicle Larry's experiences, it delves into the heart of what it means to uphold justice in one of the most challenging environments imaginable. He shares vivid details of the 'death watch,' the procedure leading up to executions, and provides a sobering glimpse into the complexity of enforcing the death penalty. Larry's personal connection to the topic through a family tragedy brings an intimate layer to this discussion, one that offers a rare blend of professional duty and personal introspection. He also shares his well known Correctional Officers prayer, used in many correctional officer memorials.
If you would like to Contact Larry [email protected]
Larry's Book - Execution Day Journal https://www.amazon.com/Execution-Day-Journal-Larry-Peoples/dp/1499199759
The Mock Riot https://www.mockprisonriot.org/
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Take care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences!
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In today’s episode, we talk with former BOP Captain Glen MacDonald about doing the right thing, even when it is tough. Glen walks us through many of the decisions throughout his life and career, where doing the right thing was not popular. Despite being shunned by staff, loss of promotions, and horrible stress, Glen persevered.
Glen also shares his passion for staying active, including CrossFit and “rucking,” and how completing more than 120 GoRuck events has allowed him to “get comfortable with being uncomfortable.”
This episode is Part 2 of 2, so be sure and listen to Episode 75: Doing What's Right, Even When It's Tough - Interview w/Glen MacDonald - Part 1
Mainline S & C podcast with Glen MacDonald
GORUCK | The Rucking Company
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Glen's reflections on the internal battles correctional officers face—such as finding drugs and corruption within their ranks—are eye-opening. These revelations highlight the lesser-known aspects of prison life and the constant vigilance required to uphold the law within its walls. The discussion around the corruption he witnessed, and the challenges it posed to his own moral compass, underscores the complexities of working in corrections.
This episode is Part 1 of 2, so be sure and listen to Episode 76: Doing What's Right, Even When It's Tough - Interview w/Glen MacDonald - Part 2
Glen also shares his passion for staying active, including CrossFit and “rucking,” and how completing more than 120 GoRuck events has allowed him to “get comfortable with being uncomfortable.”
Mainline S & C podcast with Glen MacDonald
GORUCK | The Rucking Company
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Take care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences!
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It is not merely the high-stakes nature of maintaining order that this interview touches upon. The psychological toll of being a correctional officer is scrutinized through "Bama's" heartfelt story. He takes us through the day-to-day operations within the prison walls, where he encountered a gamut of scenarios – from gang violence to his own personal battles against stress and despair. Bama does not shy away from discussing the often-taboo topic of suicide among law enforcement, highlighting the importance of mental health support and community outreach.
This episode is Part 2 of 2, be sure listen to Episode 73: Part 1 - All I Know is Corrections - Interview with Bronner "Bama" Allen
We can all help prevent suicide. The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals in the United States. https://988lifeline.org/
PepperBallSupport the Show.
Contact us: [email protected]
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePrisonOfficer
Take care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences!
The podcast currently has 95 episodes available.
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