Episode #2096
Josh Dubin & Sheldon Johnson
Books mentioned
Timestamps are segment start times from the podscripts.co transcript of the audio release (includes ad reads), so they may differ from the video by a few minutes.
Criminal justice reform advocates Josh Dubin and Sheldon Johnson discuss Johnson’s experience with systemic racism, a 50-year sentence for a minor robbery, and his transformation in solitary confinement. The conversation explores prison labor exploitation, forensic science issues, and the need for diversion programs and education to reduce recidivism.
What they talked about
- Sheldon Johnson's 50-year sentence for a robbery with two stitches
- Sheldon's childhood in the psychiatric system and juvenile detention
- Learning criminal behavior in group homes
- Sheldon's gang involvement and prison violence
- Walking away from the gang and pursuing education in prison
- The Cornell Prison Education Program and debate team
- Reentry challenges: technology illiteracy and lack of support
- Reform efforts: youth programs, policy advocacy, and litigation
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