Best Correctionalofficer Podcasts (2025)

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106: Jujitsu, Justice, and Leadership - Interview w/Bryan Antonelli 1:12:15

12d ago1:12:15

1:12:15

Send us a text Brian Antonelli, known throughout corrections as "the fixer," pulls back the curtain on what it takes to restore order in some of America's most challenging prisons. Drawing from 32 years of distinguished service in federal and state corrections, Antonelli shares candid stories about transforming troubled facilities like USP Hazleton…

1
105: Keeping Your Cell Extraction from Going Viral on YouTube - Interview w/Tim Fasnacht 1:08:42

26d ago1:08:42

1:08:42

Send us a text The shocking disparity between training requirements—four weeks to become a correctional officer versus sixteen weeks to become a hairdresser in Washington State—highlights a systemic problem in how we prepare staff to handle some of society's most challenging individuals. Fosnott describes his earliest experiences, including being t…

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104: Recent Training Spotlight - and A Special Announcement by Michael Cantrell 36:36

1M ago36:36

36:36

Send us a text Michael Cantrell returns with a passionate exploration of the evolving corrections landscape, sharing significant professional milestones while introducing his upcoming new book, "Power Skills: Emotional Intelligence and Soft Skills for Correctional Officers, Public Service, and Beyond." The episode begins with exciting news about Ca…

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103: The Human Stories of Military Justice and Rehabilitation - Interview w/James Cummings 1:09:05

2M ago1:09:05

1:09:05

Send us a text From the corridors of military prisons to the unique challenges of civilian life, our guest Jimmy Cummings shares an extraordinary journey filled with unexpected twists and turns. A retired Marine with a commanding presence in military corrections, Jimmy opens up about his early struggles in Scranton, Pennsylvania, that led him to th…

1
102: Leadership Strategies and Fostering a Culture of Integrity - Interview w/Chris McConnell 58:30

2M ago58:30

58:30

Send us a text From military operations in the Gulf to the corridors of correctional facilities, Chris McConnell's journey is a narrative of resilience and leadership. Growing up in a law enforcement family in Pennsylvania, Chris was destined for a life of service. After serving as an airborne infantryman in Operation Desert Shield Storm, he transi…

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101: Transforming Prisons: Innovation and Rehabilitation in Belize - Interview w/Dr. Jarrod Sadulski 53:11

3M ago53:11

53:11

Send us a text Discover the transformative world of Central American prisons with Dr. Jarrod Sadulski, whose journey from the Coast Guard to criminology and federal law enforcement has led him to the heart of prison reform in Belize. As we navigate through his insights, you'll uncover the stark realities and surprising successes within the Belize C…

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100: Discover the Secrets of Human Behavior - Interview w/Greg Williams & Brian Marren 1:22:43

3M ago1:22:43

1:22:43

Send us a text Discover the secrets of human behavior in high-stress environments with our special guests, Greg Williams and Brian Marren from Arcadia Congerati. These experts, known for their work in developing the Marine Corps' Combat Hunter program, join us to celebrate the 100th episode of the Prison Officer Podcast. They offer unique insights …

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99: Honoring a Legacy in Corrections - Interview w/Conor Fredericks 1:05:58

4M ago1:05:58

1:05:58

Send us a text Join us for an insightful conversation with Connor Fredericks, a South Carolina Department of Corrections CERT Commander. In our exploration of corrections, we focus on the unique challenges correctional officers face, particularly those in CERT positions. Connor's career shift from night shift police work to corrections presents a c…

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98: Transforming County Jails: Leadership, Innovation, and Second Chances - Interview w/Justin Hall 1:05:00

4M ago1:05:00

1:05:00

Send us a text Ever wondered what it takes to manage a county jail? Join me, Michael Cantrell, as I sit down with Justin Hall, the elected jailer from Nelson County, Kentucky, who has spent nearly two decades in the corrections field. We'll uncover how he navigated his way from the Hardin County Detention Center to overseeing operations in his home…

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97: Guard: Duty, Sacrifice, and Leadership - Interview w/Phillip W Parker 1:27:37

5M ago1:27:37

1:27:37

Send us a text Philip W. Parker, former warden of Kentucky State Penitentiary, joins us to share his remarkable story from rural Kentucky roots to overseeing maximum-security operations. Listen as Philip recounts his unique career trajectory, beginning with a chance encounter while teaching karate that led him to the world of corrections. As we wal…

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96: Best of the Prison Officer - The Basics - Success in Corrections 25:51

5M ago25:51

25:51

Send us a text In this episode of the basics, I talk about what it takes to have Success in Corrections. The Basic, common sense attributes and work habits of a good correctional officer. Listen as I talk about Correctional Basics every rookie should know, and every veteran officer should already be doing...who knows...everyone needs a refresher so…

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95: Reflections on Correctional Leadership and Growth: A Year in Review - 2024 35:14

6M ago35:14

35:14

Send us a text Unlock the secrets of successful correctional leadership as we recap an incredible year for the Prison Officer Podcast. We've reached new heights by launching on YouTube, and growing our audience worldwide. I tackle pressing issues like staffing challenges, emphasizing the crucial role of a positive workplace culture that prioritizes…

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94: Exploring the Path of an Investigative Agent - Interview w/Steve Hansen 54:32

6M ago54:32

54:32

Send us a text Former special investigative agent Steve Hansen joins us to shed light on a career filled with intense experiences and unique insights into the world of federal corrections. From his humble beginnings in a small Iowa town to navigating the complexities of federal prisons, Steve's story is one of dedication and resilience. Steve's car…

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93: Leadership and Innovation in Correctional Training - Interview w/Michael Warren 1:07:19

6M ago1:07:19

1:07:19

Send us a text Inspired by his grandfather, Michael Warren's foray into law enforcement was destined from the start, rooted in a rich family tradition of public service. Michael, the Director of Training for Command Presence and host of the Faces of Leadership podcast, joins us to share his unique journey. Michael brings a treasure trove of experie…

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92: Transforming Challenges into Opportunities: Thriving in Corrections 37:16

7M ago37:16

37:16

Send us a text What if I told you that the toughest challenges in the corrections field could turn into your greatest opportunities for growth? I explore my journey through the demanding landscape of corrections and shed light on a world that requires incredible resilience and determination. A recent e-mail from a correctional officer grappling wit…

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91: Can We Talk?...About Mastering De-Escalation Techniques in Corrections 30:02

7M ago30:02

30:02

Send us a text What if the key to managing conflicts in corrections is as simple as mastering the art of listening? Join us as we examine the evolution of de-escalation techniques, starting from the era of "verbal judo" to contemporary methods centered on active listening and emotional regulation. You'll learn why truly hearing and understanding th…

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90: From Baseball Dreams to Correctional Teams - Interview w/Adam Dennis 55:46

8M ago55:46

55:46

Send us a text Meet Adam Dennis, a 28-year law enforcement/corrections veteran, who shares his early days, influenced by his father's advice and his brother's positive experiences, as he navigates through a career filled with challenges and unexpected culture shocks. From playing college baseball to earning a criminology degree, Adam's journey is i…

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89: New Perspectives, New Solutions: Insights from Missouri's Fall MCA/MPPOA Conference 1:13:11

8M ago1:13:11

1:13:11

Send us a text Join us live from the Missouri Correctional Association and Missouri Probation and Parole Officers Association fall conference at the stunning Lodge of the Four Seasons in Lake of the Ozarks. Learn about suicide prevention from the critical support provided by the 988 national suicide hotline. Hear inspiring conversations with Major …

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2024 MCA/MPPOA Fall Conference Live this Week! 7:36

8M ago7:36

7:36

Send us a text Join me on this week's Prison Officer Podcast as I bring you an exclusive update from the Missouri Correctional Association and the MPPOA conference. You'll also get a sneak peek into my classes on "Essentials in Correctional Excellence" and "Leading Without Rank," where I’ll share practical leadership strategies at all levels, regar…

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88: The Many Challenges of Today's Correctional Officer - Interview w/Gary York 51:02

9M ago51:02

51:02

Send us a text How do simple gestures elevate officer morale in an understaffed environment? What happens when political decisions compromise the safety of correctional officers? Join us as we welcome back Gary York, a veteran corrections professional and renowned author. We'll explore the necessity of supportive supervision and the detrimental eff…

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87: Debunking Myths and Unveiling Lies of Prison Life 37:12

9M ago37:12

37:12

Send us a text Ever wondered how much of what you've heard about prison life is actually true? Mike Cantrell pulls back the curtain on the misconceptions that society holds about prisons and their inmates. Through a personal recount of a misguided community meeting, he reveals how families are often manipulated by prisoners who exaggerate their har…

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86: The Complex World of Corrections: A Deep Dive with Dr. Mike Pittaro 55:20

10M ago55:20

55:20

Send us a text What drives someone to dedicate their life to understanding inmate behavior and educating future criminal justice professionals? Join us for a compelling conversation with Dr. Mike Pittaro, associate professor of criminal justice at the American Military University and Director of Corrections for Northampton County Department of Corr…

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85: Best of The Prison Officer - Greatness Beyond the Badge - Interview w/Michael Laidler 1:01:03

10M ago1:01:03

1:01:03

Send us a text Have you ever wondered what it takes to transition from a Border Patrol agent to a federal corrections officer, all while becoming a renowned public speaker and author? Today, we sit down with Michael Laidler, whose journey in law enforcement began at just nine years old, inspired by the O.J. Simpson case. Raised in Miami by a single…

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84: The Role of Leadership in Preventing Misconduct in Correctional Facilities 27:42

11M ago27:42

27:42

Send us a text Can leadership failures create a breeding ground for misconduct in correctional facilities? In this episode of the Prison Officer Podcast, we confront this critical question head-on. Through the lens of Stanley Milgram's famous 1963 obedience study, we unravel the often unseen dynamics of authority in corrections, exploring when and …

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83: Insights and Advocacy with Union Executive Director William Doyle 53:43

11M ago53:43

53:43

Send us a text 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 ou…

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82: Legacies and Innovations in WV Corrections - Interview w/Commissioner William Marshall 55:49

12M ago55:49

55:49

Send us a text 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…

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81: A Journey through Leadership, Training, and Corrections Challenges - Interview w/Joseph Gunja 1:22:42

12M ago1:22:42

1:22:42

Send us a text 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 imp…

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80: Are You a Hunter or Are You Prey? 23:00

1y ago23:00

23:00

Send us a text 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…

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79: The Best of The Prison Officer - Strangeways - A Prison Officer's Story - Interview w/Neil "Sam" Samworth 1:12:29

1y ago1:12:29

1:12:29

Send us a text 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 fac…

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78: A Journey of Growth and Change in Prison Management - Interview w/Art Beeler 1:05:38

1y ago1:05:38

1:05:38

Send us a text 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 o…

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77: Behind the Bars - Prayers & Executions - Interview w/Larry Peoples 45:40

1y ago45:40

45:40

Send us a text 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 p…

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76: Part 2 - Best of The Prison Officer - The Unseen Battles of Correctional Integrity - Interview w/Glen MacDonald 1:01:17

1y ago1:01:17

1:01:17

Send us a text 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 …

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75: Part 1 - Best of The Prison Officer - Doing What's Right, Even When it's Tough - Interview w/Glen MacDonald 1:00:07

1y ago1:00:07

1:00:07

Send us a text 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, a…

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74: Part 2 - When Stress Tries to Kill You - Interview with Bronner "Bama" Allen 1:06:15

1+ y ago1:06:15

1:06:15

Send us a text 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…

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73: Part 1 - All I Know is Corrections - Interview with Bronner "Bama" Allen 49:56

1+ y ago49:56

49:56

Send us a text In this episode, I talk with Bronner "Bama" Allen about his interesting career that started at The North Carolina Department of Corrections which led to a 21-year career with Federal Bureau of Prisons where he retired. But Bama wasn't done yet, he returned to where he had started at The North Carolina Department of Corrections, and w…

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72: How to Manage Inmates with Mental Illness 52:54

1+ y ago52:54

52:54

Send us a text In this episode, I talk about the fourteen years I worked around mental health inmates. Suicide, self-harm, schizophrenia, depression, and pedophilia, all affect the running of your housing unit. I will discuss some of the more common mental illnesses you will encounter working in corrections and some of my tips for managing some of …

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71: Leadership and Professionalism in Correctional Tactical Teams 34:48

1+ y ago34:48

34:48

Send us a text In this episode, explore with me the strategies that forge resilience and cohesion in correctional tactical teams. I discuss how shared experiences bond a team and why selecting the right individuals is vital to maintaining a positive dynamic. Learn about the decision-making that goes into team structure, and specialized roles, and h…

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70: No Place Like Home - 40 Years in Corrections/Law Enforcement - Interview w/Keith Hellwig 1:00:39

1+ y ago1:00:39

1:00:39

Send us a text In this episode, I interview Keith Hellwig. Keith has been in law enforcement for over 40 years. He has worked in State and County Correctional facilities and is a certified Law Enforcement Officer. He retired in March of 2017 from Corrections holding the rank of Captain. He continues to work as a Police officer for two rural departm…

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69: The Wardens - The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly 37:32

1+ y ago37:32

37:32

Send us a text In this episode I reflect on the Wardens I have worked for over the years. Some were amazing leaders, others were good examples of what not to do as a leader. A prison Warden can be one of the toughest jobs. Always trying to balance that line between whatever political issue headquarters is pushing and what is best at a local level f…

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68: Last Call at Missouri State Pen - Interview w/John Motel 55:17

1+ y ago55:17

55:17

Send us a text In this episode, I talk with John Motel about his career, leadership lessons, the transfer of maximum security inmates from MSP to JCCC, and his five seconds of fame when he made the last radio call from the old Missouri State Penitentiary. After ten years in the United States Army, John went to work for the Missouri Department of Co…

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67: Leadership Works Best with Common Sense - Interview w/Percy Pitzer 40:08

1+ y ago40:08

40:08

Send us a text In this episode, I speak with Percy Pitzer. Percy has had a long career in corrections starting with the Bureau of Prisons, he rose through the ranks, eventually retiring as Warden. After returning to work in private corrections, he started his own corrections audit company, Creative Corrections. Percy and his family have also starte…

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66: Not all Inmates are Created Equal 28:19

1+ y ago28:19

28:19

Send us a text After having this discussion over and over, I finally decided I am going to share my thoughts in a podcast about the use of restrictive housing. I have worked and seen the good, bad, and ugly. At the end of the day though, restrictive housing is necessary! I agree that many of our inmates need programming that prepares them for the o…

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65: Criminal Justice Education & Corrections - Interview w/ Dr. John "Jay" Lawrie 56:57

1+ y ago56:57

56:57

Send us a text In this episode, I talk with Dr. John "Jay" Lawrie about his career and get some insight about the current trends in Criminal Justice education. Jay Lawrie retired from the Connecticut Department of Correction after a 20-year career at the MacDougall/Walker Correctional Institution in Suffield Ct. He then joined the faculty at Albert…

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64: The Toughest Job - Interview w/Gary York 53:15

1+ y ago53:15

53:15

Send us a text In this episode, I talk with Gary York, author of The Toughest Job. Author, columnist, and even TV actor...:-), Gary has a varied and interesting career. We talk about all things corrections, from staff manipulation, being married to a correctional officer, staff wellness, and much more. Gary began his career with the Department of C…

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63: Missouri Correctional Association Fall Conference - Attendee Interviews 1:25:13

1+ y ago1:25:13

1:25:13

Send us a text This week I was a presenter at the Missouri Correctional Association's (MCA) Fall Conference at the Lake of the Ozarks, MO. We had a great time as I talked about Leadership - It's Your Journey and Staying Positive in a Negative Environment. After the classes, I was able to set up the podcast remotely and do several interviews with MC…

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62: Greatness Beyond the Badge - Interview w/Michael Laidler 1:01:03

1+ y ago1:01:03

1:01:03

Send us a text In this episode, I talk with Michael about his path from law enforcement/correctional officer to keynote speaker and author of Greatness Beyond the Badge. We talk about the importance of self-awareness, reaching your potential, and taking the leap into greater things in your life. Michael Laidler has worked in law enforcement for nea…

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61: Rodeos and Riots at The Oklahoma State Pen - Interview w/Dan M. Reynolds 53:16

2y ago53:16

53:16

Send us a text In this episode I talk with Dan M. Reynolds. Dan is the author of several books about the Oklahoma State Pen, his experiences, and much more. Dan M. Reynolds takes his subjects directly from more than 30 years of correctional experience. Dan started as a case manager and would later take positions as classification auditor, administr…

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60: Question and Answer Time with The Prison Officer - Michael Cantrell 40:36

2y ago40:36

40:36

Send us a text In this episode, I go back through the e-mails and messages to The Prison Officer and answer those questions that I think can apply to everyone working in corrections. I talk about lying to your bosses, the difference between working minimum and maximum security, why I come across as such a hardass and more. Finding Your Purpose: Cra…

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59: The 1995 Harrison Correctional Facility Riot - Interview w/Robert Greenwood 1:14:10

2y ago1:14:10

1:14:10

Send us a text In this podcast, I sit down with Robert Greenwood. Robert has 35 years of experience working for the Michigan Department of Corrections in prison administration and community corrections. He has worked as a corrections officer, resident unit officer, transportation officer, trainer, cell block supervisor, captain, and deputy director…

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58: The Little Things Do Matter and Why We Stand the Line 27:18

2y ago27:18

27:18

Send us a text A recent Facebook post was highlighting the fact a citizen brought in pizza for the inmates and staff...I could hardly believe the responses from citizens and staff. Be careful, I will probably hurt somebody's feelings with my commentary. There are so many things wrong with this scenario, from staff manipulation, to contraband introd…

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Correctionalofficer Podcasts

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