Step inside the razor-wire perimeter of maximum security prison life through the eyes of a former correctional officer whose four-year career transformed him in ways he never anticipated. This conversation pulls no punches, revealing the brutal reality of a world where violence is currency and survival requires speaking a language most of us will never understand.

From his first day witnessing a bloody inmate assault to eventually becoming the "hammer" the prison administration called when situations spiraled out of control, our guest shares how the $13.14/hour job exposed him to humanity at its darkest and most desperate moments. You'll hear about inmates fashioning makeshift weapons from everyday items, the psychological warfare of having feces and urine thrown at officers, and the terrifying reality of what happens when staff members become compromised by the very people they're supposed to control.

What makes this episode particularly powerful is the raw honesty about how this environment changes those who work within it. Our guest describes his gradual transformation from an eager 21-year-old rookie to someone who could spike an inmate's head into a steel toilet without hesitation—and be celebrated for it by supervisors. He details how this "jungle mentality" follows officers home, making everyday civilian interactions feel unpredictable and dangerous by comparison.

Beyond the adrenaline-fueled stories of riots and cell extractions lies a thoughtful examination of America's broken corrections system. We discuss the inadequate treatment of mentally ill inmates, the profit motives that keep prisons full, and the shocking lack of support for the correctional officers who experience trauma on a daily basis. As our guest explains why these forgotten first responders often suffer in silence, you'll gain new perspective on the true cost of how we warehouse our nation's incarcerated population.

Whether you're fascinated by the psychological aspects of institutional life or simply curious about what happens in one of society's most secretive environments, this unfiltered conversation offers rare insight into a world most of us will never experience but that shapes thousands of lives every day.

 To follow Austin on Instagram 👉 @austin.legg 

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What if we've been lied to about feminism? What if the most radical act in today's world isn't joining a movement that is meant to destroy women? January Donovan, founder of The Woman School and mother of eight, challenges everything we think we know about modern femininity in this profoundly honest conversation.

January shares her journey from insecure Filipino immigrant to becoming a mentor for women worldwide. After experiencing two abortions as a lost teenager, she found a mentor who gave her specific homework assignments that transformed her life—from making her bed first thing every morning to rising at 4:30 AM to study. These disciplines became the foundation of her approach to teaching women the forgotten art of femininity.

The conversation explores why so many women today feel unfulfilled despite unprecedented freedom. January breaks down her "fulfillment formula" that includes having a vision, designing every arena of life (not just career), and developing oneself daily. She argues that modern culture's emphasis on external metrics of success has led women away from the interior strength that creates true satisfaction.

Perhaps most provocatively, January challenges the notion that home management is beneath an ambitious woman. "If I built a million-dollar business and my home was chaotic, I would not be happy," she explains. Rather than seeing traditional skills as oppressive, she reframes them as foundational to creating order, peace, and beauty in one's immediate environment.

This isn't about returning to the 1950s—January herself has built a multi-million dollar business while raising eight children. Instead, it's about reclaiming the power of discipline, intentionality, and excellence in every arena of life. As she puts it, "A feminist walks into a room saying 'look at me,' while a real woman walks in asking 'how can I bring value to everyone else?'"

Whether you consider yourself traditional, progressive, or somewhere in between, this conversation will challenge your assumptions about what it means to be a truly empowered woman in today's confused world.

To learn more about January Donovan's Forbes Top Coaching School, The Woman School, visit: http://newwomanmasterclass.com/bam and follow her journey on social media at:

Instagram: https://thewomanschool.com/januarydonovan
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheWomanSchoolOfficial/
Youtube:

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In this raw and riveting conversation, Marine Corps veteran Austin Hancock takes us on an extraordinary journey from rock bottom to remarkable success. Proving it can be done. Starting with a shocking confession about assaulting someone with a tire iron as a troubled teen, Austin reveals how this pivotal moment led to his military service and ultimately transformed his life.

Austin doesn't hold back as he recounts the psychological warfare of boot camp at Paris Island, serving in Iraq's dangerous Al-Anbar province, and the profound disconnect he felt upon returning to civilian life. With refreshing honesty, he details his evolution from construction worker to home builder to sophisticated real estate investor, including the crushing financial pressures that nearly broke him when the market shifted in 2018.

What makes this episode truly special is Austin's ability to extract powerful lessons from every phase of his journey. Lessons he wants to share with each listener. He dissects the mindset required for entrepreneurial success, explaining why most people quit right before breakthrough and how the real struggle isn't making money...it's pushing through when everything falls apart. His insights on fatherhood are equally compelling, particularly his approach to raising confident daughters and creating a legacy of action rather than empty words.

Whether you're a veteran searching for your next mission, an entrepreneur facing setbacks, or simply someone seeking authentic perspective on building a meaningful life, Austin's story offers both inspiration and practical wisdom. His message is clear: true wealth isn't just financial, it's a complete life where physical fitness, family relationships, and personal confidence complement financial success.

Don't miss Austin's powerful advice on investing in yourself, the critical difference between talking about change and actually making it happen, and why your children will eventually discover who you really are, regardless of what you tell them.

To follow Austin and check out The APEX Training Club, give him a follow and visit at: https://www.instagram.com/austin.hancock1/?hl=en

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In this explosive conversation, former School District teacher Laura Boulton reveals the disturbing pattern of institutional failure that she uncovered during her 23-year teaching career. What began as standard mandatory reporting of student disclosures about sexual assault evolved into something far more sinister—a suspected pedo ring within the district with connections potentially dating back to the 1980s.

Boulton, an immigrant from Malaysia who built her American dream through education, shares how her commitment to student safety ultimately cost her the career she loved. After students reported sexual misconduct to her—both peer-to-peer incidents and staff-student violations—she discovered the district was systematically mishandling these reports, directing teachers to report only to administrators rather than law enforcement as legally required.

The consequences for Bolton's advocacy were severe. Twice suspended and eventually forced to resign, she faced what she describes as the district's four-part strategy: "delay, deny, discredit, distract." Yet in a bewildering contradiction, the district paid her $400,000 in a settlement while simultaneously banning her from all district properties until 2027.

Through her nonprofit Phoenix Advocacy, Boulton now helps families navigate similar situations, working with law enforcement and politicians to reform mandatory reporting protocols. Her message is clear: the safety of our children must transcend politics, institutional reputation, and personal career considerations.

For parents, educators, and concerned citizens, this conversation serves as both a warning and a call to action. As Boulton powerfully states, "We were all children once and we all deserve to be safe."

To learn more about her story, CLICK HERE. To learn more on this developing story, visit Idaho News at: https://idahonews.com/news/local/former-teacher-files-second-lawsuit-against-the-boise-school-district-laura-boulton

Disclaimer: Always do your due diligence as a parent and/or faculty.

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What happens when you put your thumb out and trust America? Luke Whyte is finding out as he hitchhikes across the country, documenting conversations with strangers in an ambitious project to bridge our growing cultural divides.

With years of hitchhiking experience spanning multiple continents, Luke brings a unique perspective to understanding human connection. His current journey is motivated by a troubling observation: Americans increasingly live in digital bubbles that amplify our differences while obscuring our shared humanity. By hitchhiking between rides with strangers from all walks of life, he creates a space for genuine connection that transcends political boundaries.

The stories Luke shares during our conversation are both harrowing and profound. From nearly being murdered by a meth-addicted ex-convict to accidentally joining a drug smuggling operation in Central America, his adventures reveal the extraordinary situations that arise when you open yourself to the unknown. Yet despite occasional danger, Luke's experiences overwhelmingly demonstrate people's fundamental decency.

Perhaps most surprising are Luke's insights about who stops to help strangers. Middle-class Americans prove most likely to offer rides, while both the extremely wealthy and those in severe poverty tend to pass him by—though for very different reasons. These patterns reveal deeper truths about trust, empathy, and community across American society.

Luke's journey isn't just outward exploration but also personal healing. He candidly discusses his struggles with substance abuse, which developed while working remotely for a high-pressure tech startup. His current project provides space for reflection while creating meaningful connections that counteract the isolation of modern life.

Follow Luke's ongoing adventures through "American Awe" on Youtube and social media and witness firsthand how hitchhiking might help heal a divided nation—one ride at a time.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lukewhyte/#
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@americanawe
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@american-awe

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When JD answered the call to serve his country after 9/11, he couldn't have imagined the battles that lay ahead, not just in Iraq's dangerous terrain but within his own body. This extraordinary conversation takes us through his journey as an Army soldier driving fuel trucks through the early chaos of the Iraq War, his transition to law enforcement where he dangled off a six-story building to save a suicidal man, and his most personal fight: battling stage 4 cancer that attacked his testicle, lungs, and brain.

The conversation reveals not just survival, but transformation. JD's cancer battle inspired him to create Thin Blue Ride, a nonprofit that is doing the Lord's work for veterans and first responders battling cancer. His achievements defy medical expectations, from competing in grueling physical competitions to trekking to Everest Base Camp with compromised lung function.

Perhaps most powerful are the practical insights JD offers for anyone facing cancer or supporting someone who is. He discusses the importance of early detection, knowing your body, being your own medical advocate, and finding purpose through hardship. His recently published book "Beyond Survival" chronicles this remarkable journey.

JD's story forces us to confront uncomfortable statistics, 5,600 Americans diagnosed with cancer daily and over half a million Global War on Terror veterans now living with cancer, while providing resources that could save lives. For veterans, first responders, cancer patients, or anyone seeking inspiration, this episode demonstrates how our greatest challenges can become our most meaningful contributions to others.

Visit thinblueride.org to learn more about JD's organization, Thin Blue Ride, or to contact him directly if you're battling cancer or know someone who is. As he reminds us, sometimes the most healing thing we can do is share our story. To donate to our veterans and first responders battling cancer, please CLICK HERE!

To follow along on JD's incredible journey visit:

Thin Blue Ride Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thinblueride/
Thin Blue Ride Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thinblueride/
To purchase a copy of his incredible book, "Beyond Survival" CLICK HERE

JD's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daige22/

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When culinary arts teacher Michelle Chung first reported mice in her classroom, she never imagined it would lead to a parasite infection, major surgery, and a battle against a school district determined to silence her at all costs. In this powerful follow-up episode, Michelle reveals shocking new developments in her fight for classroom safety and accountability.

The situation has escalated dramatically since her first appearance. After paying her own money for a professional inspection that confirmed hazardous conditions, Michelle discovered the district had covered her classroom in bleach to hide evidence of mouse urine and droppings, creating a toxic environment that even hazmat-suited inspectors couldn't safely remain in. Rather than addressing the dangers, administrators emptied her classroom while she was on medical leave, removed her nameplate, and incredibly, threatened students with detention for mentioning her name.

This isn't just about one classroom, it's a window into systemic failures that prioritize institutional reputation over health and safety. As Michelle fights not just for her career but for student wellbeing, her story raises urgent questions about accountability in our educational system and what happens when dedicated teachers stand alone against administrative corruption.

If you missed Part 1 of the story, you can download and listen here! For KTVB7 News coverage on the case click here!

Disclaimer: Always do your due diligence as a parent and/or faculty.

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From the moment a suspect fired three shots at him in a Chicago alley, Ruben's life transformed forever. In this powerful conversation, Ruben takes us through his journey from Marine infantryman to Chicago police officer, building to the harrowing day when he and his partner Jeff were both shot while on duty.

With remarkable candor, Ruben describes his upbringing in Chicago, his time in the Marine Corps including deployment to Iraq, and his transition to law enforcement. The conversation builds toward the fateful encounter that left him wounded and his partner with a bullet permanently lodged in his skull – a moment that altered both their lives permanently.

Beyond the shooting itself, Ruben shares the psychological aftermath, their return to duty, and their assignment to the prestigious Fugitive Task Force hunting dangerous criminals.

The episode offers rare insights into police work's realities – from street-level interactions to departmental politics and the challenges officers face daily. Ruben reflects on how policing has changed, discussing both the community aspects and controversies surrounding modern law enforcement.

Finally, Ruben shares his journey founding Platoon Cigars during the pandemic, creating something positive from his experiences. This conversation beautifully captures the complexities of service, sacrifice, brotherhood, and rebuilding life after trauma. Whether you're interested in law enforcement, military service, or human resilience, this episode delivers powerful perspective from someone who's lived through extraordinary circumstances.

Go support Ruben and check out Platoon Cigars and you can follow him at:

Instagram: @PlatoonCigars and @robustocloud

Thanks for following along and see you next week!

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From the remote plains of South Central Utah to the cartel-controlled territories of Mexico, Hagan's journey as a hunting guide reads like an adventure novel that couldn't possibly be true, except every word of it is. Growing up in a town of barely 120 people shaped his self-reliance in ways that modern suburban life simply cannot replicate. When the orthodontist arrives in a mobile bus once a month and the nearest gas station is 20 miles away, you learn to plan ahead and make do.

The contrast between Hagan's childhood freedom and today's digitally tethered youth is stark. He recalls riding four-wheelers with guns as a kid, fishing miles from home without supervision, and the resistance he felt when finally forced to get a cell phone, it meant his parents could actually track him down. These formative experiences built character and capabilities that he sees lacking in many young people entering the workforce today. "They don't know how to run a dang shovel," he laments, noting how many can't retain instructions from one day to the next.

His journey from college wrestling scholarship to oil field work to becoming a respected hunting guide reveals a man constantly adapting to challenge and opportunity. The stories from his guiding career range from hilarious to harrowing, clients obsessing over an eighth-inch difference in antler measurement, brothers stabbing each other while field dressing an elk, and narrowly avoiding cartel violence in Mexico. Each tale offers a glimpse into the beautiful, brutal reality of a life lived close to nature and far from comfort.

Perhaps most compelling is Hagan's evolution as a hunter himself. While once focused on trophy animals and personal achievements, he now finds the greatest satisfaction in creating experiences for others, watching a child's face light up with their first successful hunt or seeing a veteran overcome with emotion after harvesting an elk. In a world increasingly disconnected from natural processes and authentic experiences, his story reminds us what we stand to lose if we forget the lessons only wilderness can teach.

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From life-or-death decisions to navigating departmental politics, Rafael pulls back the curtain on his 27-year career as a San Francisco firefighter paramedic in this captivating conversation about service, sacrifice, and survival.

Rafael's journey began in 1990 as a paramedic with no intention of joining the fire department. When the city merged emergency services in 1997, he found himself thrust into a hostile environment where paramedics were viewed with suspicion and resentment by traditional firefighters. "There were fistfights," Rafael recalls, describing the decade-long tension that followed the controversial merger.

The weight of responsibility in emergency services becomes starkly apparent as Rafael shares his experiences delivering death notifications and making split-second medical decisions. One particularly haunting story involves his first time telling a young woman her boyfriend had died from an overdose. "When you tell somebody their family member is dead, they'll never forget that moment," he explains, emphasizing how critical empathy becomes in these devastating circumstances.

Perhaps most gripping is Rafael's account of his own brush with death during a gas explosion response. Separated from his crew in pitch darkness as his oxygen supply dwindled, he experienced a surreal moment of calm while wondering, "Is this where it ends?" His matter-of-fact recounting of the incident reveals the psychological resilience required of first responders who routinely face mortality.

Beyond the emergencies themselves, Rafael offers candid insights into the politics affecting emergency services, the realities of homelessness and addiction in San Francisco, and the surprising ways social media has transformed public interactions with first responders. Now retired and pursuing a second career in scalp micropigmentation, his story stands as a powerful testament to finding purpose after decades of high-stress service.

What will stay with you long after listening is Rafael's remarkable ability to maintain his humanity despite regularly witnessing tragedy. His journey reminds us that behind every emergency response is a person making difficult choices while carrying the emotional weight of a community's most devastating moments.

To follow Rafael and his incredible journey: 

INSTAGRAM- @optimized_smp

TIKTOK- @http://tiktok.com/@optimized_4_impact

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