The Prison Officer Podcast

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 PepperBall From crowd control to cell extractions, the PepperBall system is the safe, non-lethal option. OMNI OMNI 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!

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 PepperBall From crowd control to cell extractions, the PepperBall system is the safe, non-lethal option. OMNI OMNI 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!

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/ PepperBall From crowd control to cell extractions, the PepperBall system is the safe, non-lethal option. OMNI OMNI 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!

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!

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!

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/ PepperBall From crowd control to cell extractions, the PepperBall system is the safe, non-lethal option. OMNI OMNI 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!

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 where he still works today. His story shares the human side of corrections, as he discusses the experiences that shape the men and women who don the uniform, and the shared journey that both scars and strengthens them. This episode is Part 1 of 2, be sure listen to Episode 74 - Part 2 - When Stress Tries to Kill You - 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/ PepperBall From crowd control to cell extractions, the PepperBall system is the safe, non-lethal option. OMNI OMNI 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!

In this episode, I talk about the fourteen years I worked around mental health inmates. Suicide, self-harm, schizophrenia, depression, pedophilia, they 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 the most difficult inmates to supervise. PepperBall From crowd control to cell extractions, the PepperBall system is the safe, non-lethal option. OMNI OMNI 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!

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 how a careful balance of discipline and personal development can maintain a ready, effective force. Join me for an episode that explores the heart of leadership and team-building in corrections. PepperBall From crowd control to cell extractions, the PepperBall system is the safe, non-lethal option. OMNI OMNI 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!

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 departments. Keith obtained his formal education from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, and Fox Valley Technical College. He received specialized training in Hostage negotiations, hostage rescue, and cell extractions, and commanded both an institutional SWAT team as well as a Sniper Team. He was a certified firearms and chemical agents instructor and a defense tactics instructor. He is the author of three books related to Corrections and Police work, “No Place Like Home,” “ Morning Will Come,” and his latest, “In Their Own Words,” stories by and about Correctional Officers from around the world. No Place Like Home In Their Own Words: True Stories from the Front Line of the World's Toughest Beat Rural-route Wisconsin PepperBall From crowd control to cell extractions, the PepperBall system is the safe, non-lethal option. OMNI OMNI 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!

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 for your staff and inmates. PepperBall From crowd control to cell extractions, the PepperBall system is the safe, non-lethal option. OMNI OMNI 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!

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 Corrections eventually promoted to Major and retiring after 30 years of service. John now serves as the Vice President of the Missouri Correctional Association. Missouri Correctional Association Heirs of Restraint PepperBall From crowd control to cell extractions, the PepperBall system is the safe, non-lethal option. OMNI OMNI 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!

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 started the Pitzer Family Education Foundation. The foundation has provided more than 190 scholarships to the children of incarcerated parents. You can reach Percy by phone 409-861-2536 The Pitzer Family Education Foundation https://pfefscholarships.org/ Creative Corrections https://creativecorrections.com/ PepperBall From crowd control to cell extractions, the PepperBall system is the safe, non-lethal option. OMNI OMNI 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!

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 outside world. I also agree that many of our inmates are criminal thugs who will not be changed with classes, bribes, or personal freedom. Two different groups of inmates. The problem is - these are two different conversations. Two different groups of social needs. Not all Inmates are Created Equal! The End Solitary Confinement Act - https://endtorturenow.org/ PepperBall From crowd control to cell extractions, the PepperBall system is the safe, non-lethal option. OMNI OMNI 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!

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 Albertus Magnus College in New Haven, Ct., where he currently serves as an Associate Professor of Criminal Justice and Chair of the Department of Criminal Justice and Sociology. Prior to assuming these positions, he was a criminal justice adjunct faculty member for 13 years at various Massachusetts colleges. Jay received his B.S. in Political Science and M.S. in Criminal Justice from Westfield State College, as well as my Doctorate in Education from American International College. In September of 2023, he co-founded the Corrections Community Network, an online community developed specifically for current and retired correctional, parole, and probation professionals. The CCN's mission is to provide the hard-working men and women of corrections a supportive community where they can discuss the unique challenges and perspectives only those in the field can fully understand. You can contact Jay at jnlawrie@albertus.edu The Corrections Community Network https://join.corrcommnet.com/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSTQCMGVjgHD3kiv3KbiPoA PepperBall From crowd control to cell extractions, the PepperBall system is the safe, non-lethal option. OMNI OMNI 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!

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 Corrections as a correctional officer. He was promoted to probation officer, senior probation officer, and senior prison inspector where for the next 12 years he conducted criminal, civil, and administrative investigations in many state prisons In 1991 Gary received the leadership award from the National Association of Black Law Enforcement Officers. In 1998 he was the statewide senior prison inspector of the year and received honors from the Civil-Criminal Division in Washington DC in 1999 for his work in a wrongful death investigation. In 2004 Gary was asked to work with the U.S. Department of Justice on a program for In-Custody Death training for the prison system in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. After leaving the state prison system Gary went on to complete 12 years with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office in Florida. Gary worked in the South County Jail and then as a Juvenile Drill Instructor at the (Boot Camp) Star program. Gary fully retired as a Master Deputy Bailiff with 28.8 years of service. Gary has a master’s degree in Criminal Justice from Florida Metropolitan University and Completed the Certified Public Managers course with Florida State University. Gary is now a Columnist for CorrectionsOne.com and has a YouTube channel titled: True Prison Stories. The Toughest Job by Gary York Corruption Behind Bars by Gary York Inside the Inner Circle by Gary York PepperBall From crowd control to cell extractions, the PepperBall system is the safe, non-lethal option. OMNI OMNI 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!

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 MCA members at the conference while they were in between classes and activities. What a wealth of correctional knowledge. Check out these interviews: Adam BarkerCarolLyree PriceBrock VanLooWilliam BaumbachJazmyn ShockleyMissouri Correctional Association Missouri Probation and Parole Officers Association If you would like Michael to speak at your training or conference e-mail: mike@theprisonofficer.com or Michael Cantrell on SpeakerHub After the Staying Positive in a Negative Environment class, many of you asked about my book, you can purchase a copy here: Finding Your Purpose: Crafting a Personal Vision Statement to Guide Your Life and Career! PepperBall From crowd control to cell extractions, the PepperBall system is the safe, non-lethal option. OMNI OMNI 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!

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 nearly two decades. He has served with distinction in numerous positions and leadership roles, from police officer, and border patrol agent to federal corrections. Michael’s dedication to service shines in all he does. He holds an MBA from Morehead State University, a BA from Florida State University, and is a Distinguished Toastmaster. Michael has transitioned his career into training and educating law enforcement officers and leaders nationwide. A highly sought-after keynote speaker and facilitator, Michael’s methods continue inspiring and developing officers and industry leaders to become better in every regard, especially personally. It is his goal to impart the necessary personal development skills for leaders to operate at full capacity in every situation. You can find out more about Michael by visiting michaelalaidler.com or connecting with him on the Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube social media platforms under @michaellaidler. Greatness Beyond the Badge by Michael Laidler PepperBall From crowd control to cell extractions, the PepperBall system is the safe, non-lethal option. OMNI OMNI 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!

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, administrative assistant, deputy warden, and finally as warden/administrator over several different prisons and departments. In his books, he describes his first-hand experiences with Oklahoma state penitentiary rodeo, riots, and escapes. dan1reynolds@yahoo.com Caged Wisdom: Learning to See Through the Bars On the Other Side of the Bars: Lessons Learned as a Prison Warden/Administrator What God Wants You To Know Oklahoma Prison Riots Most Hilarious, Bizarre, and Unusual Correctional Stories Ever Told History of the Oklahoma State Pen Rodeo PepperBall From crowd control to cell extractions, the PepperBall system is the safe, non-lethal option. OMNI OMNI 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!

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 hard ass, and more. PepperBall From crowd control to cell extractions, the PepperBall system is the safe, non-lethal option. OMNI OMNI 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!