90 episodes
The Prison Officer Podcast Michael Cantrell
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- Society & Culture
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4.9 • 31 Ratings
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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 toughest careers out there. Hosted by Michael Cantrell, this podcast delves into the lives, dreams, and challenges faced by those who work inside the walls of our nation’s prisons. It features interviews, insights, and discussions related to the unique and demanding world of corrections. Whether it’s overcoming difficult leaders, understanding rehabilitation, or addressing misconceptions about incarcerated populations, the Prison Officer Podcast provides valuable perspectives from professionals in the field.
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79: The Best of The Prison Officer - Strangeways - A Prison Officer's Story - Interview w/Neil "Sam" Samworth
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
PepperBallFrom crowd control to cell extractions, the PepperBall system is the safe, non-lethal option.OMNIOMNI is cutting-edge software designed to track inmates and assets within your prison or jail. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the Show.
Contact us: mike@theprisonofficer.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePrisonOfficer
Take care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences! -
Episode 78: A Journey of Growth and Change in Prison Management - Interview w/Art Beeler
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: afbjab@aol.com
PepperBallFrom crowd control to cell extractions, the PepperBall system is the safe, non-lethal option.OMNIOMNI is cutting-edge software designed to track inmates and assets within your prison or jail. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the Show.
Contact us: mike@theprisonofficer.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePrisonOfficer
Take care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences! -
Episode 77: Behind the Bars - Prayers & Executions - Interview w/Larry Peoples
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 lepkmp@gmail.com
Larry's Book - Execution Day Journal https://www.amazon.com/Execution-Day-Journal-Larry-Peoples/dp/1499199759
The Mock Riot https://www.mockprisonriot.org/
PepperBallFrom crowd control to cell extractions, the PepperBall system is the safe, non-lethal option.OMNIOMNI is cutting-edge software designed to track inmates and assets within your prison or jail. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the Show.
Contact us: mike@theprisonofficer.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePrisonOfficer
Take care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences! -
Episode 76: Part 2 - Best of The Prison Officer - The Unseen Battles of Correctional Integrity - Interview w/Glen MacDonald
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
Support the Show.
Contact us: mike@theprisonofficer.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePrisonOfficer
Take care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences! -
Episode 75: Part 1 - Best of The Prison Officer - Doing What's Right, Even When it's Tough - Interview w/Glen MacDonald
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
Support the Show.
Contact us: mike@theprisonofficer.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePrisonOfficer
Take care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences! -
Episode 74: Part 2 - When Stress Tries to Kill You - Interview with Bronner "Bama" Allen
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/
PepperBallFrom crowd control to cell extractions, the PepperBall system is the safe, non-lethal option.OMNIOMNI is cutting-edge software designed to track inmates and assets within your prison or jail. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the Show.
Contact us: mike@theprisonofficer.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePrisonOfficer
Take care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences!
Customer Reviews
KEEP THE KNOWLEDGE COMING
Thank You ! I enjoy every episode. - Former Officer and going back !
Informative Podcast
I love the thought and dedication that the host puts into his podcast. He covers many topics that give not only the prison officer but the general public knowledge into an important profession. Keep up the good work!
Inspired
I am currently in the process of testing to become a correctional officer, I do my test this upcoming Thursday and I was super excited already but listening to your podcast added onto that excitement. I’ve wanted to be apart of law enforcement for years now , ever since I was about 14 years old, and I’m thankfully after turning 21 this year and 7+ tries of applying getting that opportunity. I am not the most athletic person, but I have made myself challenge myself to succeed , as to me there is no room for failure. I want this job, more than I’ve ever wanted anything, so I won’t let me being out of shape get in the way. Over the past couple days I’ve woke up early and ran twice a day so I can get my 1.5 mile run done in time. Thank you for sharing what you have!