Imagine for a moment that you have just spent the last eight years under strict watch 24/7. Being told what to do, where to go, where and when to eat, all the while never really sleeping, not trusting a single person around and always having to keep one eye on your back. Then abruptly at the end of that eight years you are thrown into an environment with zero guidance; suddenly faced with the daunting task of having to survive and maintain entirely on your own accord, in a setting in which you have been out of for nearly a decade. Welcome to the current prison release process in the U.S. A process that has turned into an almost constant revolving door of inmates coming and going into the system, unable to acclimate to the “outside” world. Even a simple search through video content, blogs, or podcasting sites will generate tons of stories of past inmates and the sheer terror they encountered once they were released. This week on The Malliard Report, Jim welcomes a guest that is spearheading an initiative to combat the revolving door practices, and better equip those that are coming into the “free world.” This week we welcome back Dr. Karen Gedney to discuss prisoner rehabilitation, reform, and much more.
“Doctor Karen Gedney is an internal medicine specialist who was placed in a male medium-security prison in 1987 to complete a four-year work exchange for a scholarship she received for medical school. Against all odds she stayed three decades and turned it into her calling. Today Karen continues to speak to increase awareness and inspire individuals and groups to become involved in prison reform. Karen lives near Carson City, Nevada and is currently speaking out against Nevada’s death penalty.”
Doctor Karen is an amazing guest that is incredibly passionate about what she does, and has a story that is truly amazing. You can purchase Dr. Karen’s book on her website (discoverdrg.com) or through major online retailers. For all things Malliard, head over to malliard.com where you can catch past shows, snag some merch, and much more. Make sure to rate and subscribe through your favorite podcasting app, and join the live chat every Tuesday night at 9 P.M. EST.
