The Damage Done Podcast Mason Olshever

Our latest episode features the incredible redemption story of Juan Gamez, the once-notorious figure from the captivating 2016 documentary "They Call Us Monsters."

In this episode, we delve deep into Juan's transformation from a troubled youth caught in the grips of the notorious MS-13 gang to the inspiring beacon of hope he is today.

Juan's tumultuous journey began in El Salvador, marked by a turbulent childhood that led him down a path of crime and eventually to facing a daunting life in prison. However, against all odds, Juan's story takes a remarkable turn in prison, where he faced a life-changing crossroad.

Our co-host Cesar, who served as one of Juan's mentors during his incarceration, witnessed firsthand, the extraordinary evolution of a man determined to break free from the shackles of his past.
Tune in to explore the remarkable fusion of true crime and self-help as we unravel Juan's courageous pursuit of inner transformation amidst the darkness of a violent gang lifestyle.

Discover how his unwavering commitment to personal growth and resilience not only saved his own life but also inspired him to become a guiding light for others in similar circumstances.

In this episode, we celebrate Juan's journey of self-discovery and empowerment, illustrating the power of resilience and the capacity for profound change. Don't miss out on this gripping narrative that sheds light on the strength of the human spirit and the possibility of redemption, even in the most challenging of circumstances.

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In this powerful and thought-provoking episode of "The Damage Done," we dive deep into the compelling life journey of Daniel Roman.

Sentenced to 30 years in prison for attempted murder at the tender age of 15, Daniel's story is one of unimaginable challenges, redemption, and transformation.

In this candid conversation, Daniel Roman opens up about his turbulent childhood and early involvement in the notorious street gang "18th Street." He provides an intimate look at the harsh realities of life in prison, sharing the difficult choices he had to make behind bars to pave the way for his personal growth and transformation.

But this episode is about more than just a life behind bars; it's a testament to the human spirit's capacity for change and redemption. Daniel's inspiring journey from a troubled youth to a beacon of hope offers valuable insights into the power of resilience, self-discovery, and second chances. Now, at 33 years old, Daniel is committed to making a positive impact and preventing others from following the same destructive path he once walked.

The Damage Done returns with the first episode of Season 3. Our murder and redemption series continues with Anthony's story.

Anthony was sentenced to two life sentences for homicide and spent decades in prison.

Anthony takes us on a journey covering his life of crime, his life inside of prison, the battle he faced overcoming his demons, all leading to his redemption and getting involved in some amazing work to help others avoid the same fate he endured.

The Murder and Redemption series is back. This time Serafin sits down to share his story.
After being charged and convicted of murder at only 17 years old, Serafin was sentenced to 27 years to life in prison.

Serafin ended up spending decades inside the notorious Pelican Bay State Prison, as well as over a decade in the SHU within Pelican Bay.

Serafin shares his experiences within the violent walls of the notorious prison, and more importantly sheds light on his redemption story, which now continues outside of prison walls as he is actively helping others avoid the same mistakes and pain he had to endure and is currently working with the Anti Recidivism Coalition to achieve that.

This episode is the first of its kind on The Damage Done Podcast.This type of episode is going to be a new type of episode that we will release mixed in with our typical format of episodes, which follow a redemption arc.

This episode and the ones that follow, are for the purpose of illustrating the historical context of certain inmates Michael Thompson has spent time with, as well as to catalogue Michael Thompson's extensive experience behind the iron gates. These episodes aim to be informative and entertaining to the listener and/or viewer.

This episode, aims to dispel the myth of Charles Manson. Michael Thompson spent many years in prison, living in the same unit with Manson and the stories contained in this episode, the perspective given are from Michaels personal experiences.

Due to time constraints we only covered a fraction of Michael's experience, depending on the feedback from this episode we may do a part two.

Also, comedian Bruce Gray is featured in this episode. Bruce has extensive knowledge of Manson and we all agreed would add some levity to this episode, so before you hop in the comments asking why he is here...that is why he is here!


We will continue to improve each and every episode. Thank you to all of our supporters that have helped us surpass 1 million views in under 25 episodes. What a fantastic start!

He was convicted of two murders in 1975. He was handed additional life sentences for murders behind bars. He spent 45 years in prison and is the highest ranking leader of the notorious prison gang The Aryan Brotherhood, to ever drop out.

After two interviews with Michael, one with his wife and one with his daughter, Michael is back on the show.

This episode aims to clear the air with his ongoing legal battles as well as things that were said on previous interviews.

Going forward Michael will be joining the show as the newest co-host.

Stay tuned and be sure to subscribe!