Prison Officer Podcast

Michael Cantrell
undefined
Apr 8, 2024 • 46min

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.comLarry's Book - Execution Day Journal https://www.amazon.com/Execution-Day-Journal-Larry-Peoples/dp/1499199759The Mock Riot https://www.mockprisonriot.org/Send us Fan Mail 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 showAlso, check out Michael's newest book - POWER SKILLS: Emotional Intelligence and Soft Skills for Correctional Officers, First Responders, and Beyond https://amzn.to/4mBeog5See Michael's newest Children's Books here: www.CantrellWrites.comSupport the show=======================Support the mission and go deeper with The Prison Officer Podcast on Patreon. Behind the Wall, you will get exclusive content, behind-the-scenes insights, leadership discussions, and tools designed for correctional professionals who want to grow, lead, and perform at a higher level.👉 Join here: https://www.patreon.com/cw/ThePrisonOfficerContact me: mike@theprisonofficer.comTake care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences! #prisonofficerpodcast #leadership #podcast @theprisonofficerpodcastContact us:  mike@theprisonofficer.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ThePrisonOfficerTake care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences!
undefined
Mar 25, 2024 • 1h 1min

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 1Mainline S & C podcast with Glen MacDonaldGORUCK | The Rucking CompanySend us Fan Mail Support the showAlso, check out Michael's newest book - POWER SKILLS: Emotional Intelligence and Soft Skills for Correctional Officers, First Responders, and Beyond https://amzn.to/4mBeog5See Michael's newest Children's Books here: www.CantrellWrites.comSupport the show=======================Support the mission and go deeper with The Prison Officer Podcast on Patreon. Behind the Wall, you will get exclusive content, behind-the-scenes insights, leadership discussions, and tools designed for correctional professionals who want to grow, lead, and perform at a higher level.👉 Join here: https://www.patreon.com/cw/ThePrisonOfficerContact me: mike@theprisonofficer.comTake care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences! #prisonofficerpodcast #leadership #podcast @theprisonofficerpodcastContact us:  mike@theprisonofficer.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ThePrisonOfficerTake care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences!
undefined
Mar 11, 2024 • 1h

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 2Glen 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 MacDonaldGORUCK | The Rucking CompanySend us Fan Mail Support the showAlso, check out Michael's newest book - POWER SKILLS: Emotional Intelligence and Soft Skills for Correctional Officers, First Responders, and Beyond https://amzn.to/4mBeog5See Michael's newest Children's Books here: www.CantrellWrites.comSupport the show=======================Support the mission and go deeper with The Prison Officer Podcast on Patreon. Behind the Wall, you will get exclusive content, behind-the-scenes insights, leadership discussions, and tools designed for correctional professionals who want to grow, lead, and perform at a higher level.👉 Join here: https://www.patreon.com/cw/ThePrisonOfficerContact me: mike@theprisonofficer.comTake care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences! #prisonofficerpodcast #leadership #podcast @theprisonofficerpodcastContact us:  mike@theprisonofficer.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ThePrisonOfficerTake care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences!
undefined
Feb 26, 2024 • 1h 6min

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" AllenWe 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/Send us Fan Mail 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 showAlso, check out Michael's newest book - POWER SKILLS: Emotional Intelligence and Soft Skills for Correctional Officers, First Responders, and Beyond https://amzn.to/4mBeog5See Michael's newest Children's Books here: www.CantrellWrites.comSupport the show=======================Support the mission and go deeper with The Prison Officer Podcast on Patreon. Behind the Wall, you will get exclusive content, behind-the-scenes insights, leadership discussions, and tools designed for correctional professionals who want to grow, lead, and perform at a higher level.👉 Join here: https://www.patreon.com/cw/ThePrisonOfficerContact me: mike@theprisonofficer.comTake care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences! #prisonofficerpodcast #leadership #podcast @theprisonofficerpodcastContact us:  mike@theprisonofficer.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ThePrisonOfficerTake care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences!
undefined
Feb 12, 2024 • 50min

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

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/Send us Fan Mail 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 showAlso, check out Michael's newest book - POWER SKILLS: Emotional Intelligence and Soft Skills for Correctional Officers, First Responders, and Beyond https://amzn.to/4mBeog5See Michael's newest Children's Books here: www.CantrellWrites.comSupport the show=======================Support the mission and go deeper with The Prison Officer Podcast on Patreon. Behind the Wall, you will get exclusive content, behind-the-scenes insights, leadership discussions, and tools designed for correctional professionals who want to grow, lead, and perform at a higher level.👉 Join here: https://www.patreon.com/cw/ThePrisonOfficerContact me: mike@theprisonofficer.comTake care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences! #prisonofficerpodcast #leadership #podcast @theprisonofficerpodcastContact us:  mike@theprisonofficer.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ThePrisonOfficerTake care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences!
undefined
Jan 29, 2024 • 53min

72: How to Manage Inmates with Mental Illness

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 the most difficult inmates to supervise.Finding Your Purpose: Crafting a Personal Vision Statement to Guide Your Life and Career! by Michael CantrellKeys to Your New Career: Information and Guidance to Get Hired and Be Successful as a Correctional or Detention Officer by Michael CantrellSend us Fan Mail 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 showAlso, check out Michael's newest book - POWER SKILLS: Emotional Intelligence and Soft Skills for Correctional Officers, First Responders, and Beyond https://amzn.to/4mBeog5See Michael's newest Children's Books here: www.CantrellWrites.comSupport the show=======================Support the mission and go deeper with The Prison Officer Podcast on Patreon. Behind the Wall, you will get exclusive content, behind-the-scenes insights, leadership discussions, and tools designed for correctional professionals who want to grow, lead, and perform at a higher level.👉 Join here: https://www.patreon.com/cw/ThePrisonOfficerContact me: mike@theprisonofficer.comTake care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences! #prisonofficerpodcast #leadership #podcast @theprisonofficerpodcastContact us:  mike@theprisonofficer.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ThePrisonOfficerTake care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences!
undefined
Jan 15, 2024 • 35min

71: Leadership and Professionalism in Correctional Tactical Teams

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.Finding Your Purpose: Crafting a Personal Vision Statement to Guide Your Life and Career! by Michael CantrellKeys to Your New Career: Information and Guidance to Get Hired and Be Successful as a Correctional or Detention Officer by Michael CantrellSend us Fan Mail 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 showAlso, check out Michael's newest book - POWER SKILLS: Emotional Intelligence and Soft Skills for Correctional Officers, First Responders, and Beyond https://amzn.to/4mBeog5See Michael's newest Children's Books here: www.CantrellWrites.comSupport the show=======================Support the mission and go deeper with The Prison Officer Podcast on Patreon. Behind the Wall, you will get exclusive content, behind-the-scenes insights, leadership discussions, and tools designed for correctional professionals who want to grow, lead, and perform at a higher level.👉 Join here: https://www.patreon.com/cw/ThePrisonOfficerContact me: mike@theprisonofficer.comTake care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences! #prisonofficerpodcast #leadership #podcast @theprisonofficerpodcastContact us:  mike@theprisonofficer.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ThePrisonOfficerTake care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences!
undefined
Jan 1, 2024 • 1h 1min

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

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 BeatRural-route WisconsinSend us Fan Mail 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 showAlso, check out Michael's newest book - POWER SKILLS: Emotional Intelligence and Soft Skills for Correctional Officers, First Responders, and Beyond https://amzn.to/4mBeog5See Michael's newest Children's Books here: www.CantrellWrites.comSupport the show=======================Support the mission and go deeper with The Prison Officer Podcast on Patreon. Behind the Wall, you will get exclusive content, behind-the-scenes insights, leadership discussions, and tools designed for correctional professionals who want to grow, lead, and perform at a higher level.👉 Join here: https://www.patreon.com/cw/ThePrisonOfficerContact me: mike@theprisonofficer.comTake care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences! #prisonofficerpodcast #leadership #podcast @theprisonofficerpodcastContact us:  mike@theprisonofficer.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ThePrisonOfficerTake care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences!
undefined
Dec 18, 2023 • 38min

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

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.Finding Your Purpose: Crafting a Personal Vision Statement to Guide Your Life and Career! by Michael CantrellKeys to Your New Career: Information and Guidance to Get Hired and Be Successful as a Correctional or Detention Officer by Michael CantrellSend us Fan Mail 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 showAlso, check out Michael's newest book - POWER SKILLS: Emotional Intelligence and Soft Skills for Correctional Officers, First Responders, and Beyond https://amzn.to/4mBeog5See Michael's newest Children's Books here: www.CantrellWrites.comSupport the show=======================Support the mission and go deeper with The Prison Officer Podcast on Patreon. Behind the Wall, you will get exclusive content, behind-the-scenes insights, leadership discussions, and tools designed for correctional professionals who want to grow, lead, and perform at a higher level.👉 Join here: https://www.patreon.com/cw/ThePrisonOfficerContact me: mike@theprisonofficer.comTake care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences! #prisonofficerpodcast #leadership #podcast @theprisonofficerpodcastContact us:  mike@theprisonofficer.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ThePrisonOfficerTake care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences!
undefined
Dec 4, 2023 • 55min

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

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 AssociationHeirs of Restraint  Send us Fan Mail 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 showAlso, check out Michael's newest book - POWER SKILLS: Emotional Intelligence and Soft Skills for Correctional Officers, First Responders, and Beyond https://amzn.to/4mBeog5See Michael's newest Children's Books here: www.CantrellWrites.comSupport the show=======================Support the mission and go deeper with The Prison Officer Podcast on Patreon. Behind the Wall, you will get exclusive content, behind-the-scenes insights, leadership discussions, and tools designed for correctional professionals who want to grow, lead, and perform at a higher level.👉 Join here: https://www.patreon.com/cw/ThePrisonOfficerContact me: mike@theprisonofficer.comTake care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences! #prisonofficerpodcast #leadership #podcast @theprisonofficerpodcastContact us:  mike@theprisonofficer.comFacebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ThePrisonOfficerTake care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences!

The AI-powered Podcast Player

Save insights by tapping your headphones, chat with episodes, discover the best highlights - and more!
App store bannerPlay store banner
Get the app