Prison: The Hidden Sentence Podcast
by Julia Lazareck
Welcome. The purpose of this podcast and it's blog is to help educate and empower those who have or had a loved one in prison. Raising awareness one story at a time.Did you know that the chances are very high that someone you know has had a loved one incarcerated? Or maybe you are part of the millions of people in the US population who has had a loved one in the prison system? This Podcast is for you. Indirectly we are all affected, and if you have a loved one in prison you are probably doing the time even though you committed no crime. This is the hidden sentence that nobody talks about. The sentence does not end once your loved one is released either. Depending on the type of release he or she may still need to deal with probation or parole which carries its own set of regulations. So the prison issue continues for an indeterminable about of time. Prison: The Hidden Sentence is about those friends and family members on the outside.
Episodes
-
Prison, Pickleball & Possibility: Roger BelAir’s Mission To Connect
Prison can divide people, but can a simple game of pickleball bring them together? On this episode of Prison: The Hidden Sentence, Roger BelAir shares the surprising story of how one idea sparked a movement inside jails and prisons across the country. From rival gang members playing side by side…
more -
Prison, Love & Hope: Shalanda Thompson’s Story Behind Around The River Bend
Prison affects more than the person behind bars—it changes the lives of the families who love them, too. In this heartfelt episode of Prison: The Hidden Sentence, Shalanda Thompson shares how a childhood friendship unexpectedly blossomed into love when she reconnected with her husband while he…
more -
Having A Brother In Federal Prison: Family, Distance, And The Fight For An International Prison Transfer
What happens to a family when a loved one is incarcerated in a U.S. Federal prison and the family lives in another country? In this episode, Nick shares his experience of having a brother in the American Federal prison system while living abroad, and the ripple effects that reach far beyond…
more -
Dave Dahl: From Prison To Dave’s Killer Bread—Transformation, Reentry & Changing Lives
He spent 15 years in prison—then co-founded Dave's Killer Bread and gave second chances to hundreds of formerly incarcerated people. In this episode of Prison: The Hidden Sentence, host Julia Lazareck talks with Dave Dahl about the rock-bottom moment that turned his life around, how he rebuilt…
more -
Love Within Walls: A Death Row Love Story That Defied Stigma With Gigi Taylor
Prison, incarceration, and death row are often viewed through headlines—but what happens when love grows in a place most people never expect? In this powerful conversation, Gigi Taylor shares her unconventional love story with her husband, Michael, a man who has spent more than two decades...
-
Prison And Parenthood: Raising A Daughter While My Husband Is Incarcerated
Prison doesn't just incarcerate one person—it changes countless lives. In this heartfelt episode of Prison: The Hidden Sentence, Rebecca shares what it's like raising her daughter while her husband is incarcerated. She opens up about the loneliness of parenting alone, who she can trust with their...
-
Walk In Our Shoes - Exploring Prison Visitation
What really happens during a prison visit? Most people never see beyond the security gates—however every visit leaves a lasting impact. In this powerful recorded theatrical experience, you'll step into one prison visit through the eyes of those living it: a child, a grandmother, an incarcerated...
-
Jay Rutherford: From Prison To Purpose In New Jersey
Prison changed the course of Jay Rutherford's life—but what he did after his release is what makes his story unforgettable. In this episode of Prison: The Hidden Sentence, host Julia Lazareck sits down with Jay Rutherford, a New Jersey advocate who knows the system from the inside out, having...
-
Navigating Incarceration And Reentry: A Parents' Perspective With Dale And Karen
When their son's arrest shattered their world, Dale and Karen were thrust into an unfamiliar and overwhelming system with no roadmap—but their unwavering love and determination became his lifeline through both incarceration and reentry. In this powerful episode, this devoted couple opens up about...
-
Prison To Purpose: Reentry, Probation Success & Self-Leadership With Jonas Royster
Prison is often seen as an ending, but for Jonas Royster, the real transformation began after his release – when deep self-introspection led him to take ownership of his life and turn his lived experience into a powerful force for change. Joining Julia Lazareck, the award-winning author…
more -
Stronger Together: Overcoming Addiction And Incarceration With Love With Jacklyn Eva
Incarceration and addiction can tear families apart, but today’s episode is a testament to the power of love, resilience, and second chances. Jacklyn Eva shares her deeply moving journey of navigating her husband’s incarceration and their shared battle with addiction, revealing how they’ve...
-
Nevada’s First: Jovan Jackson From Incarceration To Legislation
The first formerly incarcerated person ever elected to the Nevada Legislature, Assemblymember Jovan Jackson, joins us on Prison the Hidden Sentence. From serving time in prison to serving his community in the State Assembly, Jovan’s journey is one of resilience, redemption, and purpose. He opens…
more -
From Prison To Purpose – Mark Wilson’s Fight For Justice (Part 2)
Prison didn’t stop Mark Wilson from becoming a force for good—it’s where his journey into advocacy and restorative justice began. In Part 2, Mark shares how he used his time behind bars to create programs that empowered others to grow, take responsibility, and prepare for life after release. His...
-
From Addiction To Accountability – Mark Wilson’s Prison Journey (Part 1)
Incarceration doesn’t just impact the person behind bars—it affects entire families. In Part 1 of this powerful conversation, Mark Wilson shares the beginning of his journey through addiction, incarceration, and the ripple effects it had on his loved ones. As he faced the consequences of his...
-
Natasha Blakely: Breaking The Cycle Of Incarceration’s Impact On Families And Youth
In this powerful episode, we sit down with Natasha Blakely, Training and Engagement Specialist at Project Avary, to explore the impact of incarceration on children and families. Natasha shares her personal journey and the purpose that drives her work supporting youth with incarcerated parents. If...
-
Coming Home: A Mother And Son’s Story Of Life After Incarceration (Part 2)
Incarceration may have ended, but the journey is far from over. In this powerful episode, we continue the story of Jane—now joined by her son, Anthony, who has recently come home after years in prison. Together, they share what life has been like since his release, offering an honest look at the...
-
When Prison Changes Everything: A Mother’s Story Of Advocacy And Strength (Part 1)
Prison forever changed Jane’s world when her son was arrested and sentenced. In Part 1 of this two-part podcast, we’re honored to share her powerful story. Jane is a devoted mother and fierce advocate for her incarcerated son, and instead of staying silent, she chose to speak out. She opens up...
-
From Life Sentence To Legislative Advocate: Kyle Hedquist’s Journey
Sentenced to life in prison as a teenager, Kyle Hedquist defied the odds. Hear his incredible journey from a life sentence to freedom and how he's now driving change in state policy. In 2022, Governor Brown commuted his sentence, and he was released just 20 days later. Now, nearly two years on,...
-
Prison Terminal: Dignity Behind Bars With Filmmaker Edgar Barens
Edgar Barens' Academy Award-nominated documentary, “Prison Terminal”, has been viewed in over 60 prisons and 80 educational institutions. His unique talent for turning large-scale issues into personal, deeply humane stories. We’ll explore his mission: documenting a groundbreaking prisoner-run...
-
Destinee And Mario Redding - 17 Years Of Love Through Incarceration And Beyond
Destinee and Mario Redding's remarkable love story endured and flourished through the challenges of Mario's 17-year incarceration. In this powerful episode, they share their journey of Love Incarceration, resilience, and the strength to overcome hardships that seemed insurmountable. Hear…
more -
Paths To Liberation: Breaking The Chains Of Mass Incarceration With Leslie Ann Turner
Leslie Ann Turner is a powerful voice in the fight for change, working tirelessly to dismantle mass incarceration and uplift marginalized communities. As a devoted mother, dynamic community organizer, and co-director of the Mass Liberation Project in Nevada, Leslie is on the frontlines advocating...
-
Prison Monastery: Fostering Intentional Living And Transforming Lives Inside And Out With Kate Feigen
In this episode, we delve into the transformative work of Kate Feigen, a dedicated leader at the Prison Monastery, where she helps incarcerated individuals cultivate more intentional and meaningful lives. Through their program, The Art of Soulmaking, Kate and her team guide those behind bars on a...
-
The Ridge Project: Ron And Catherine Tijerina’s Journey To Build A Resilient Support Program For Incarcerated Individuals And Their Families
In this episode, we welcome Ron and Catherine Tijerina, the visionary founders of The RIDGE Project. As co-executive directors, they lead a national nonprofit organization and the international TYRO curricula, both dedicated to supporting families affected by incarceration. The Ridge Project…
more -
Educational Opportunities For The Incarcerated And Formerly Incarcerated With Jim Cox From Ashland University
In this episode, Jim Cox from Ashland University joins us to share eye-opening insights into their transformative educational programs for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals. Discover compelling stories of resilience and success, learn how education can reduce recidivism, and...
-
Real Talk With Sheree Corniel: Empowering Tomorrow's Leaders
Welcome to the Prison: The Hidden Sentence podcast, where today we are going to explore the transformative impact of empowering today's youth. In this episode, Sheree Corniel shares her story with podcast host, Julia Lazareck. When Sheree's siblings were incarcerated, she began questioning the...
-
Connecting For Justice With Kayla Victor
Join Kayla Victor, the Chair of the Connecting for Justice International Conference, and Julia Lazareck, founder of Prison The Hidden Sentence and president of Prison Families Alliance, as they discuss the significance of this year's event, emphasizing the importance of sharing stories and…
more -
Family Bonds Beyond Bars
The bars only physically separate a person from his family, but family bonds go beyond bars. In this heartfelt podcast episode, join Ashley as she opens up about the profound changes that ensued when her husband became incarcerated, affecting not only her but also her four children. Ashley…
more -
Legacy Of Transformation: Barbara Allan And David Rothenberg's 50+ Year Journey Changing The Lives Of The Formerly Incarcerated And Their Families
Incarceration can take away hope's wings, but a helping hand can mend them, allowing hope to soar again. In this compelling episode, join us on a journey through over five decades of unwavering advocacy with Barbara Allan and David Rothenberg. Discover the inspiring story of their transformative...
-
Navigating The Holidays With An Incarcerated Loved One - Live Broadcast Recording 3
The primary mission of the Prison Families Alliance (PFA) is to elevate awareness about the far-reaching effects of incarceration on families and communities and to support those on the outside who have loved ones in the carceral system. In this podcast, you'll hear from guests who share their...
-
Navigating The Holidays With An Incarcerated Loved One - Live Broadcast Recording 2
Julia Lazareck is the founder of Prison: The Hidden Sentence and co-founder of Prison Families Alliance along with co-founder Barbara Allan. They are both passionate about supporting anyone who has a loved one in the carceral system and raising awareness about the effects of incarceration on...
-
Navigating The Holidays With An Incarcerated Loved One - Live Broadcast Recording 1
Julia Lazareck is the founder of Prison: The Hidden Sentence and co-founder of Prison Families Alliance along with co-founder Barbara Allan. They are both passionate about supporting anyone who has a loved one in the carceral system and raising awareness about the effects of incarceration on...
-
A Mother’s Journey Of Grief, Incarceration, Love, And Forgiveness With Lorri Brit
Kids don’t have to be bad, have bad parents, or live in bad homes to suffer mental health breakdowns, addiction, or incarceration. Everything can change instantly. If it has happened to your family, you know the feeling of losing control and the emotional chaos that comes with it. Lorri Britt…
more -
Part 2 – Michael Liebowitz Shares His Release Experience From Prison
“Sometimes a person needs to hear hard truths to change.” - Michael Liebowitz. In Part 1, Michael shared his journey to rehabilitation while incarcerated for 25 years. He had prepared for the day of his release from prison for many years. In this second part of his conversation with Julia…
more -
Part 1 - Michael Liebowitz Shares How Rehabilitation In Prison Is Possible
Michael Liebowitz shares his story about his rehabilitation in prison, his desire to change, and his epiphany of how he could change. He remembered a training course he took when he was younger and drew upon that experience. Hence, he started reading books on self-improvement to educate himself…
more -
Part 2 - Carlos Rebollo Released From Prison After 24 Years
In Part I, Carlos Rebollo shared his story about what it was like being incarcerated as a 15-year-old juvenile in an adult prison. He served 24 years and was incarcerated longer than he was free. In this second part, Carlos shares his experiences—from the time he learned that he would be released...
-
Part I - Carlos Rebollo Incarcerated At 15 Years Old
Hear the incredible story of Carlos Rebollo, who was incarcerated at just 15 years old and served 24 years in adult prisons. If you have a loved one in prison, then Carlos’ story will give you hope. If you never knew anyone who was incarcerated (or thought you didn’t), this story will humanize…
more -
Chuck Gallagher Talks About Prison, Choices, And Second Chances
In the middle of a rising career, Chuck Gallagher lost everything and went to prison because he made bad choices. He has since rebuilt his career and his life back to immense success. Chuck focuses on the importance of ethics and how that can help you survive and thrive. He learned a lesson about...
-
The Prison Pipeline: Real Stories of Incarceration And The Justice System With Emma Lugo
Prison is usually seen as an almost hell-like experience that criminals deserve to go through. But what is it really like to be part of the prison pipeline? What are the stories of these so-called "criminals"? In this episode, radio personality, journalist, and producer Emma Lugo educates people...
-
A Glimpse Behind A Federal Criminal Appellate Attorney's Life With Elizabeth Franklin-Best
What does a Federal Criminal Appellate Attorney do? How will you know if you need one? Elizabeth Franklin-Best has practiced criminal defense for the past 20 years and has focused on appellate law for the past 16 years. She has represented clients in direct appeals, federal post-conviction, the...
-
Alex Peder - Communicating From Prison With Corrio
If you've ever missed a call from your incarcerated loved one, you know the pain and struggle of wondering if everything is okay. Alex Peder, CEO and Co-founder of Corrio SPC, felt there was something that could be improved about the situation. In fact, while he was incarcerated, he conceived the...
-
Trauma Recovery For Prison Families With Jolyn Armstrong
You may have experienced trauma and didn't even realize it. Jolyn Armstrong, a Certified Trauma Recovery Coach, talks about how trauma can affect anyone. For the Prison: The Hidden Sentence podcast, she focuses on trauma for those who have or had a loved one in the prison system. No matter when…
more -
Bill Baroni - From Bridge To Bars And Back To Helping Others
Imagine being found to be wrongly convicted after serving three months of your sentence. That's what happened to Bill Baroni. In this podcast, Bill discusses what he was charged with in the Bridgegate scandal, what he learned about incarceration, and the importance of communication and visitation...
-
A Conference You Want To Know About - InterNational Prisoner's Family Conference With Kayla Victor And Carolyn Esparza
Where can people who have loved ones in the criminal justice system, law enforcement and the judicial system, mental health professionals, legislatures, government officials, scholars, teachers, professors, and communities come together to share stories and learn from each other? They can come...
-
David Rothenberg's Legacy - How One Trip To A Prison Created Changes In The Criminal Justice System In New York
The criminal justice system has implemented efficient regulations in throwing wrongdoers to jail. However, it fails miserably in providing recovery support once they get out. David Rothenberg was able to change this poor aspect of the New York’s correctional system all thanks to one trip to…
more -
How Wrongful Convictions Affect Families - With Dr. Amanda Lewis
Wrongful Convictions affect not only the person in question but also his family and loved ones. Could you imagine spending years in prison for a crime you didn't commit? Your whole life will change, especially once you adjust to the outside world. Join Julia Lazareck as she talks to Dr. Amanda...
-
How Support Helps Disenfranchised Grief When A Family Member Is Incarcerated With Allegra Pocinki
Disenfranchised Grief affects families who have incarcerated loved ones. When a family member is incarcerated, it is a loss to the family. Those outside find it difficult to openly acknowledge their feelings or seek public support. In this episode, learn the six factors contributing to...
-
What You Need To Know About Collateral Consequences Before And After Incarceration With Elizabeth Justesen, Esq.
Collateral consequences are something that most people are not aware of when accepting a plea and how it affects their integration back into society after release. Collateral consequences affect not only the people involved but also our society as a whole. We want people coming out of the prison...
-
A Mother's First Visit To Her Son In Prison-Things You Need To Know With Rita
Imagine not seeing your son for over six months because he's 3000 miles away in state prison. Rita Rita arrived in Las Vegas so excited to see her son. When she told a friend that she needed to check the bus schedule, she was informed that there were no buses to the prison. When she checked…
more -
Healing From Prison Trauma With Vera Moore
Incarceration can be traumatic to everyone involved. However, you can get your life together, and your life can flourish no matter what happened to you in the past. Vera Moore started True Beginnings to assist formerly incarcerated people and their families rebuild self-esteem while reclaiming...
-
Bitter Or Better With Melisa Schonfield
Imagine being incarcerated for 1,385 days, away from your children and grandchildren? Melisa Schonfield shares her story about what she learned while in prison and the effects it had on her family. She compares prison life to real life in ways we may not have thought of. What’s it like visiting…
more
About this show
Welcome. The purpose of this podcast and it's blog is to help educate and empower those who have or had a loved one in prison. Raising awareness one story at a time.Did you know that the chances are very high that someone you know has had a loved one incarcerated? Or maybe you are part of the millions of people in the US population who has had a loved one in the prison system? This Podcast is for you. Indirectly we are all affected, and if you have a loved one in prison you are probably doing the time even though you committed no crime. This is the hidden sentence that nobody talks about. The sentence does not end once your loved one is released either. Depending on the type of release he or she may still need to deal with probation or parole which carries its own set of regulations. So the prison issue continues for an indeterminable about of time. Prison: The Hidden Sentence is about those friends and family members on the outside.
Hosted by
Julia Lazareck
Categories