Oklahoma Odyssey

Advocating for Equality: Unveiling Oklahoma's Crusade for Justice Apr 26, 2024

Join hosts Ashley Bender and Michael Olson in this eye-opening episode of Oklahoma Odyssey as they delve into the crucial role of advocacy in the fight for equality within the state's criminal justice system. Special guest Tasneem Al-Michael of OCCJ shares valuable insights and experiences, shedding light on the power of advocacy to drive meaningful change. From grassroots efforts to legislative initiatives, discover how passionate voices are shaping the future of justice reform in Oklahoma. Tune in for a compelling conversation that highlights the importance of speaking up and taking action.

On the Same Page: Shielded: How The Police Became Untouchable Apr 05, 2024

Welcome to another episode of Oklahoma Odyssey with your hosts Michael Olson and Ashley Bender! In this month's installment of our series "On the Same Page," we delve into the thought-provoking book "Shielded: How The Police Became Untouchable." Join us as we dissect the author's exploration of the evolving dynamics between law enforcement and accountability, and discuss how these themes resonate within our community. From examining historical precedents to considering contemporary implications, we navigate the complex intersections of policing, power, and justice. Tune in as we connect the dots between the pages of "Shielded" and the realities of criminal justice in our own backyard.

Unveiling the Hidden Economy: The Impact of Prison Labor Mar 29, 2024

Join Ashley Bender and Michael Olson on a captivating journey into the intricate web of relationships between prison labor and the broader economy. In this eye-opening episode, we delve deep into the often-overlooked role of incarcerated individuals in fueling industries beyond the confines of prison walls. From manufacturing to agriculture, retail to technology, prison labor quietly permeates various sectors, shaping economic landscapes in ways we may never have imagined.

Discover how prison labor intersects with corporate interests, governmental policies, and societal norms, influencing everything from consumer goods to infrastructure development. Through insightful interviews, expert analysis, and compelling narratives, we uncover the complexities and ethical dilemmas inherent in the utilization of prison labor.

From the exploitation of cheap labor to the potential for rehabilitation and skill-building, we explore the multifaceted dimensions of prison labor and its far-reaching implications for both incarcerated individuals and society at large. Whether you're a seasoned economist, social justice advocate, or curious listener, this episode promises to challenge your perceptions and spark thought-provoking conversations about the intersection of labor, justice, and the economy.

On the Same Page: Punishment Without Trial: Why Plea Bargaining Is a Bad Deal Mar 09, 2024

In this month's On the Same Page episode, hosts Ashley Bender and Michael Olson embark on a thought-provoking exploration of the acclaimed book "Punishment Without Trial: Why Plea Bargaining Is a Bad Deal" by Carissa Byrne Hessick. Join us as we dissect the intricate layers of the plea bargaining system and unravel its profound implications on our criminal justice system.

Drawing from Hessick's insightful analysis, we delve into the complexities of plea bargaining, shedding light on its prevalence, mechanics, and the far-reaching consequences for defendants, victims, and society at large. Through engaging discussions with legal experts, scholars, and practitioners, we examine the ethical dilemmas, systemic inequalities, and erosion of due process inherent in this often-overlooked aspect of our legal system.

As we navigate through the pages of "Punishment Without Trial," we confront uncomfortable truths and challenge conventional wisdom, sparking a dialogue on the urgent need for reform. Join us as we confront the realities of plea bargaining and strive towards a more just and equitable path forward in Oklahoma's pursuit of justice.

Behind Bars: A Journey Through the Ages of Punishment Feb 23, 2024

In this captivating episode of Oklahoma Odyssey, hosts Ashley Bender and Michael Olson with Project Manager Jennifer Williams, embark on an illuminating journey through the annals of history, tracing the evolution of punishment and confinement across civilizations and epochs. Join us as we uncover the origins, practices, and societal attitudes towards punishment, from ancient times to the modern era.

From the dungeons of antiquity to the emergence of penitentiaries, we delve into the various forms of punishment that have shaped human societies. Through engaging narratives and expert insights, we explore the motivations behind punitive measures, the shifting perceptions of justice, and the enduring legacies of past practices on contemporary criminal justice systems.

As we traverse through millennia of history, we confront the stark realities of punishment, from its role as a tool of social control to its potential for rehabilitation and redemption. Join us as we unravel the complex tapestry of punishment throughout the ages, shedding light on its profound impact on the human experience and the quest for justice in Oklahoma and beyond.

On the Same Page: Rebooting Justice: More Technology, Fewer Lawyers, and the Future of Law Feb 09, 2024

Join hosts Ashley Bender and Michael Olson on another riveting episode of our monthly series "On the Same Page". This month we are looking into the book "Rebooting Justice: More Technology, Fewer Lawyers, and the Future of Law." In this illuminating exploration, our dynamic hosts dissect the transformative impact of technology on the legal landscape and question the traditional role of lawyers in our justice system.

As always, we invite our listeners to share their thoughts, questions, and experiences related to legal tech and justice reform. Join the conversation on social media with our new pages @oklahomaodyssey on Facebook and @oklahomaodysseypodcast on Instagram and be a part of the dialogue shaping the future of our legal system.

Whether you're a legal professional, tech enthusiast, or simply curious about the evolving landscape of justice, this episode is a must-listen. Subscribe to Justice Unplugged for insightful discussions, expert interviews, and an exploration of the intersection between technology and the law.

Chronicles of Consequence: Unraveling the War on Drugs Jan 19, 2024

Join your hosts, Ashley Bender and Michael Olson, on a gripping journey through the labyrinthine corridors of history in this special episode of Oklahoma Odyssey. In "Chronicles of Consequence: Unraveling the War on Drugs," we embark on an exploration of the comprehensive history of the war on drugs — a multifaceted narrative that has left an indelible mark on communities, policies, and lives.

Ashley and Michael delve deep into the historical origins of the war on drugs, tracing its evolution from its early stages to the complex landscape we navigate today. They peel back the layers to discover lesser-known facts and nuances surrounding the war on drugs.

Concluding the episode, our hosts engage in a thoughtful discussion on the prospects of reform, considering alternative approaches and envisioning a future beyond the traditional war on drugs paradigm.

On the Same Page: The Courage of Compassion Jan 05, 2024

Dive into a profound exploration of compassion, justice, and advocacy in our latest episode as hosts Ashley Bender and Michael Olson engage in a compelling conversation with the esteemed author of 'The Courage of Compassion,' Robin Steinberg. Together, they unravel the transformative power of compassion within the realm of criminal justice. Steinberg shares insights from her book, delving into stories of resilience and the pursuit of a more compassionate legal system. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that transcends the pages of the book, offering listeners a deeper understanding of the intersection between compassion and justice.

Reforming Justice: Oklahoma's 2023 Triumphs and the Road Ahead Dec 30, 2023

Join hosts Ashley Bender and Michael Olson on this episode of Oklahoma Odyssey, we delve into the transformative strides made in criminal justice reform throughout the year 2023 in the Sooner State. Join us as we recap the remarkable successes, from innovative policies to impactful initiatives, that have reshaped the landscape of Oklahoma's criminal justice system.

From reducing incarceration rates to promoting rehabilitation and reintegration, we explore the initiatives that have paved the way for a more equitable and effective approach to justice. Our guests, including policymakers, activists, and experts, share insights into the key milestones achieved and the lessons learned along the journey.

As we reflect on the progress made, we also turn our gaze towards the horizon, examining the challenges that lie ahead and the strategies needed to sustain and build upon the momentum of reform in the coming year. Join us on this enlightening journey through Oklahoma's evolving criminal justice landscape.

On the Same Page: A Christmas in Prison Dec 08, 2023

Join hosts Ashley Bender and Michael Olson in a poignant episode of Oklahoma Odyssey as they explore the heartfelt Harper's Magazine piece, "Christmas in Prison" by Kenneth Hartman with the author Kenneth himself. This captivating episode delves into the profound reflections and experiences shared by Hartman during the holiday season behind bars.

Dive into the evocative storytelling of Kenneth Hartman as he paints a vivid picture of Christmas in the confines of a prison cell. The Harper's Magazine piece, 'Christmas in Prison,' opens a window into a world many seldom glimpse, offering a unique perspective on the holiday spirit within the confines of incarceration.

Uncovering Civil Asset Forfeiture Nov 17, 2023

Welcome to Oklahoma Odyssey, the thought-provoking criminal justice podcast brought to you by Ashley Bender and Michael Olson from Oklahomans for Criminal Justice Reform.

In this episode, we embark on an investigative journey deep into the heart of civil asset forfeiture laws and practices, exploring their impact on individuals, families, and communities in Oklahoma. Civil asset forfeiture allows law enforcement agencies to seize property suspected of being involved in criminal activity, even if the property owners are not charged with a crime. This powerful tool has raised significant ethical and legal questions, sparking debates nationwide.

As part of the Oklahoma Odyssey podcast series, our goal is to empower our listeners with knowledge, encourage critical thinking, and advocate for transparency and fairness within Oklahoma's criminal justice system. By delving into civil asset forfeiture, we hope to foster a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding law enforcement practices and their impact on our communities.

Subscribe now and join us on this enlightening journey. Together, let's uncover the truths behind civil asset forfeiture, advocate for justice, and work towards a more equitable future for all Oklahomans.

On the Same Page: Innocent Man Nov 03, 2023

In this episode of Oklahoma Odyssey, hosts Ashley Bender and Michael Olson delve into the gripping narrative of 'An Innocent Man,' a powerful book that unravels the flaws within the criminal justice system. This story hits close to home as it took place in Ada, Oklahoma.

Join us as we navigate the compelling stories, discuss the implications of wrongful convictions, and explore the urgent need for criminal justice reform. Our in-depth analysis and expert insights promise to shed light on the complexities surrounding the pursuit of justice in our society. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the issues at hand and join the conversation for meaningful reform.

On the Same Page: Killers of the Flower Moon Oct 27, 2023

Join hosts Ashley Bender and Michael Olson on a gripping exploration of David Grann's true-crime masterpiece in this special episode of Oklahoma Odyssey. Delve into the shocking events surrounding the Osage murders in the 1920s, as depicted in both the book and movie 'Killers of the Flower Moon.'

They use this book as a jumping book to talk about the issues the Native community must face when it comes to mass incarceration and the carceral system. As well as the general lack of data that makes this problem even trickier.

Faith, Justice, and the Death Penalty Oct 21, 2023

Join us and Dr. Rev. Shannon Fleck of Oklahoma Faith Network as we critically examine the religious narratives that both challenge and support the death penalty, seeking to understand the profound impact of faith on the pursuit of justice.

Welcome to Oklahoma Odyssey, the thought-provoking criminal justice podcast brought to you by Ashley Bender and Michael Olson from Oklahomans for Criminal Justice Reform. In this unique podcast episode, we unravel the intricate threads that bind faith, justice, and the contentious topic of the death penalty in the heartland of America.

This episode takes you on an enlightening exploration of the intersection between religious beliefs and the criminal justice system, with a particular focus on Oklahoma. As a state with a complex history concerning capital punishment, Oklahoma provides a captivating backdrop for our conversations.

Produced in Oklahoma, a state with its unique challenges and triumphs in the realm of criminal justice, our podcast invites you to join the conversation. Whether you're a believer, a skeptic, or someone simply seeking to understand, this podcast offers a space for open dialogue and respectful examination of the relationship between religion and the death penalty.

On the Same Page: The Poisoner's Handbook Oct 06, 2023

Welcome to Oklahoma Odyssey, a captivating podcast series produced by Ashley Bender and Michael Olson from Oklahomans for Criminal Justice Reform.

In this episode, we take you on a thrilling journey through the pages of Deborah Blum's masterpiece, exploring the riveting tales of poisonings, investigations, and scientific breakthroughs that shaped the evolution of forensic science in the United States during the Prohibition era. Each episode delves into the real-life mysteries detailed in "The Poisoner's Handbook," unraveling the scientific methods, historical context, and criminal intrigues that marked this transformative period in American criminal justice.

On the Same Page: Mindhunter Sep 08, 2023

In this riveting episode of Oklahoma Odyssey, hosts Ashley Bender and Michael Olson dive into the chilling world of criminal profiling with a close examination of the book "Mindhunter."

Trigger warning: This episode contains discussions about sensitive topics, including rape and murder. Listener discretion is advised.

Join Ashley and Michael as they unravel the pages of "Mindhunter," authored by John E. Douglas and Mark Olshaker. Explore the profound insights of criminal profilers, the genesis of the FBI's Behavioral Science Unit, and the gripping narratives that unfold within the pages.

Key Highlights:

Criminal Profiling: Delve into the art and science of criminal profiling as depicted in "Mindhunter."
FBI's Behavioral Science Unit: Explore the origins and groundbreaking work of the FBI's Behavioral Science Unit.
Narrative Analysis: Unpack the compelling narratives that form the backbone of this gripping book.

Tune in as Oklahoma Odyssey navigates the complex corridors of criminal psychology, weaving together a narrative that challenges our understanding of the criminal mind.

Unveiling the Link: Concentrated Disadvantage and Criminal Legal Involvement in Oklahoma Jul 22, 2023

In this episode, hosts Ashley Bender and Michael Olson go on a deep dive into the intricacies of Concentrated Disadvantage Index and its profound impact on poverty and criminal legal involvement in Oklahoma. Our hosts, as well as David Gateley of The Oklahoma Policy Institute, delve into the data, unraveling the complex relationship between concentrated disadvantage and the justice system, shedding light on the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to break the cycle of systemic inequality.

Tune in for an enlightening conversation that explores the intersection of social disadvantage and its ramifications within the criminal justice landscape.

On the Same Page: Profit and Punishment: How America Criminalizes the Poor in the Name of Justice Jul 07, 2023

Embark on a thought-provoking journey with hosts Ashley Bender and Michael Olson as they dissect the eye-opening revelations within 'Profit and Punishment: How America Criminalizes the Poor in the Name of Justice' by Toni Messenger. Together, they navigate the pages of this impactful book, exploring the intricate ways in which America's justice system intersects with issues of poverty. This book exposes how the American justice system perpetuates injustice by disproportionately penalizing and criminalizing the impoverished, revealing the intersection of profit-driven policies and the criminalization of poverty.

Join us for a compelling discussion that unravels the stark realities presented by Messenger's work, shedding light on the urgent need for systemic change and a reevaluation of the relationship between justice and socioeconomic disparities.

On the Same Page: A Theory of Justice Jun 10, 2023

In this thought-provoking podcast episode, we delve into the profound insights offered by John Rawls' seminal work, "A Theory of Justice," and explore its implications for the urgent challenges faced by the modern criminal justice system. Join us as we navigate the intricate web of Rawlsian principles and consider how they can shape the path towards a more equitable and humane criminal justice reform.

Our hosts, Ashley Bender and Michael Olson, over the concept of the original position, the veil of ignorance, and more as the unravel the core tenets of Rawls' theory and ponder their application in dismantling systemic injustices.

As we confront the complexities of punishment, rehabilitation, and societal responsibility, our guests provide unique perspectives on bridging the gap between theory and tangible reform.

Whether you're a legal scholar, a policymaker, or a concerned citizen, this episode serves as a captivating exploration into the philosophical foundations of justice and their potential to reshape the future of criminal justice. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how "A Theory of Justice" can inspire transformative change and propel us towards a system that truly embodies the principles of fairness and equity.

Pulse's Season One Finale - Heartbeats of Justice: Reflect, Revisit, Reform Nov 25, 2022

As the inaugural season of "Pulse" comes to a close, hosts Ashley Bender and Michael Olson take you on a reflective journey through the impactful stories and insightful conversations that have defined this podcast. Join us in this season finale as we delve into the pulse of criminal justice, exploring the heartbeats of reform, resilience, and the pursuit of a more just society.

Episode Highlights:

Voices of Change: Revisit powerful interviews with advocates, experts, and individuals directly impacted by the criminal justice system. Their voices have echoed through the season, shaping our understanding and fueling the call for reform.
Unveiling Untold Stories: From the hidden narratives of incarcerated individuals to the complexities of legal intricacies, we've sought to unveil the untold stories that often escape the mainstream narrative. The finale brings these narratives to the forefront.
Impactful Moments: Join us in revisiting the most impactful moments from the season—moments that sparked conversations, challenged perspectives, and inspired action. Together, we'll celebrate the milestones achieved in our collective journey toward justice.
Looking Back, Moving Forward: Ashley and Michael share their reflections on the season's evolution, discussing the challenges, triumphs, and the unwavering commitment to shedding light on critical issues within the criminal justice system.

Thank you for being part of this transformative season. Your support has been the heartbeat that propels us forward. Together, let's keep the pulse strong, amplifying the call for a criminal justice system that reflects our shared values of fairness, equity, and compassion.

Listen in to the season finale of "Pulse" and be part of the heartbeat that resonates beyond the airwaves, driving change and shaping the future of criminal justice. We'll see you back in June!

Oklahoma's Criminal Justice Reform Story Nov 19, 2022

Join host Ashley Bender, Executive Director of Oklahomans for Criminal Justice Reform, Damion Shade, and Jasmine Sankofa, the Policy and Research Manager at FWD.us as we detail the progress made, while keeping our foot on the gas towards next best steps to make safer, better communities across the state. While Oklahoma's criminal justice story continues to be written, so much progress has already been made. After five years of progress, more Oklahomans are home with their families and contributing to their communities. Oklahoma reduced crime, the number of felony charges, the prison and jail populations, and the number of people in prison for nonviolent crimes all at the same time. Oklahoma's Republican state leaders and voter support has led to common sense criminal justice reforms that have changed the lives of thousands of Oklahomans. The effect of these reforms is a smaller prison system with better public safety outcomes. More is needed to build on this progress and bring Oklahoma's incarceration rate in line with other states. Learn more at https://turningthepage.fwd.us

On the Same Page: Criminal (In)Justice: What the Push for Decarceration and Depolicing Gets Wrong and Who It Hurts Most Nov 04, 2022

Join hosts Ashley Bender and Michael Olson on an enlightening episode of Oklahoma Odyssey as they engage in a riveting discussion with special guest Cindy Nyugen, representing ACLU Oklahoma. In this episode, the trio delves into the thought-provoking insights from the book "Criminal (In)Justice: What the Push for Decarceration and Depolicing Gets Wrong and Who It Hurts Most."

Get ready for a candid conversation that challenges conventional wisdom and framing of arguments, prompting critical reflections on the path to true criminal justice reform. Tune in to this illuminating episode where the hosts and their guest navigate the delicate balance between transformation and unintended consequences.

Chilling Chronicles: Oklahoma's Dark Tales of True Crime Oct 28, 2022

Dive into the shadows of the criminal legal system with Pulse's special spooky season episode, "Chilling Chronicles: Oklahoma's Dark Tales of True Crime." Join hosts Ashley Bender and Michael Olson, as well as their guest Colleen McCarty the Executive Director of Oklahoma Appleseed Center for Law and Justice, as they unearth bone-chilling stories from the heart of Oklahoma, exploring eerie cold cases, unsolved mysteries, and the haunting legacies of serial killers.

Brace yourselves for an unsettling journey into the darker side of the Sooner State, just in time for the spookiest season of the year. True crime enthusiasts, this one's for you!

2SLGBTQ+ History Month Oct 14, 2022

Join us and Nicole Mcafee of Freedom Oklahoma as we break down 2SLGBTQ+ History Month.

We know that 2SLGBTQ+ folks are more likely to be involved in every step of the criminal legal system, by and large, by no fault of their own. Listen as we break this down, detail where Oklahoma is in this conversation, and give next steps for us all.

Prisons are an Environmental Injustice Sep 16, 2022

For decades, prison and jails across the nation have been built on or near enivronmentally hazardous locations. Join us and researchers Leon-Corwin, Maggie, Jericho R. McElroy, Michelle L. Estes, as we dive into their research paper “Polluting our Prisons? An Examination of the Relationship between Oklahoma Prison Locations and Toxic Releases, 2011-2017.” Additional researchers on their paper who couldn't join us include Jon Lewis and Michael A. Long.

Oklahoma is putting incarcerated individuals' health and safety at risk every single day, in more ways than we'd like to think.

Criminalizing Poverty: The Grim Realities of Fines and Fees Sep 09, 2022

Beginning in the early 2000's, the Oklahoma State Legislature began to cut funding for court operations but allowed the imposition of fees to cover the lost revenue. Fines and fees has therefore been a concern for criminal justice reform advocates and for court actors who faced shrinking state budgets. Due to this, a study was done in Oklahoma County by Harvard, Berkeley, and Columbia from 2017-2019. Listen along as we breakdown Oklahoma's over-reliance on fines and fees and the consequences to our communities, economy, and more.

Why Do We Lock Up So Many Women and Girls? Aug 26, 2022

Today is National Women's Equality Day. Women's Equality Day commemorates the passage of the 19th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, granting women the right to vote. The amendment was first introduced in 1878. Though Women's Equality Day didn't come around until 1971, when the U.S. Congress designated August 26 as Women's Equality Day. Throughout the years women have diligently fought for equal rights, though enormous strides have been made, there are some areas where women are still incredibly disadvantaged. The criminal justice system being one of the areas with the worst outcomes for women and girls.

Join us and Jenna Morey, Executive Director of ReMerge as we break this down.

Previewing the Legislative's Upcoming Interim Studies Aug 13, 2022

As legislative session and special sessions have now come to an end, it is time to shift to interim studies. Oklahoma House Speaker Charles McCall approved 82 interim studies ahead of the 2023 Legislative Session. Additionally, the Senate has approved over 40 interim studies.

Between the House and Senate, we personally have 10 interim studies that we will be working on and over 20 we are watching and assisting with. Interim studies help to not only get all the stakeholders in the same room and on the same page, but it also allows legislators to make informed decisions after being presented all the data. Listen along as we detail what should be on your radar this session.

On the Same Page: Unfair: The New Science of Criminal Injustice Aug 05, 2022

For our monthly book club this month, we dive into Unfair: The New Science of Criminal Injustice.

We've all heard stories of people who served decades in prison for crimes they didn't commit. We like to think such miscarriages of justice are rare. Legal scholar Adam Benforado, says many routine procedures in the criminal justice system are bound to lead to mistakes and unfair outcomes because they rest on false assumptions about how our brains work.

This all hits closer to home in Oklahoma than we think...

Are Private Prisons All Bad? Jul 09, 2022

This week we had Keaton Ross, a reporter who covers democracy, prison conditions, and criminal justice issues for Oklahoma Watch, on to chat with us about private prisons in Oklahoma.

Many of us know some of the horrific truths and statistics about violence and the conditions inside private prisons, including ones in Oklahoma, but we don't always factor the devastating economic blow when these facilities are removed. In this episode, we hope to weigh all of the factors to give a wholistic view of private prisons in Oklahoma and nationwide.

On the Same Page: Nine: Inside the Secret World of the Supreme Court Jul 01, 2022

The week, for our monthly bookclub, we are detailing the book Nine: Inside the Secret World of the Supreme Court by Jeffret Toobin. Based in part on exclusive interviews with the justices and former law clerks, Toobin profiles the justices of the United States Supreme Court, the functioning of that institution, and how it has changed over the years.

In light of recent events, we think it is powerful to be able to look back at the trajectory of the Supreme Court since 2007 and see how it can inform today and even the future.

2022 Oklahoma Legislative Session Recap Jun 24, 2022

As the legislative session draws to a close - it is important to take stock of the gains we made as a state. This session featured several monumental successes for criminal justice reform, and we are proud of the work achieved by criminal legal advocates of all stripes. Though we would be remiss if we neglected to highlight some of the harmful criminal legal bills that almost made it into law. Criminal legal advocates across the state banded together to ensure many of these harmful bills did not pass, but the public has a right to know what bills are being advocated for by the legislators they elect.

On the Same Page: Rich get Richer, Poor get Prison Jun 04, 2022

Welcome back to our book series, On the Same Page. This week we're discussing Rich get Richer, Poor get Prison by Jeffrey Reiman and Paul Leighton.

For 40 years, this classic text has taken the issue of economic inequality seriously and asked: Why are our prisons filled with the poor? Why aren't the tools of the criminal justice system being used to protect Americans from predatory business practices and to punish well-off people who cause widespread harm?

Celebrating National Drug Court Month May 21, 2022

This Drug Court Month we had the honor of having Judge Stoner of Oklahoma County Drug Court on with us to detail the how his court operates and all the fiscal and societal benefits of drug court.

National Drug Court Month is a celebration of the lives restored by drug court, and it sends the powerful message that these programs must be expanded to reach more people in need.

More than 30 years ago, the first drug court opened its doors with a simple premise: Rather than continue to allow individuals with long histories of addiction and crime to cycle through the justice system at great expense to the public, use the leverage of the court to keep them engaged in treatment long enough to be successful.

Today, drug courts and other treatment courts have proven that a combination of accountability and compassion saves lives while also saving valuable resources and reducing exorbitant criminal justice costs.

Hysteria, PTSD, and Crisis: Mental Health Realities in Prison May 14, 2022

As May closes out we want to honor Mental Health Awareness Month. Since 1949, May has been observed as Mental Health Awareness Month. In this episode we detail the history of mental health treatment and advocacy, but furthermore, we dive intot the nexus between mental health and prisons and jails.

Though the actual statistics of individuals who are affected by mental illness in prisons and jails is staggering, incarceration itself perpetuates this problem by creating and worsening symptoms of mental illness. We can't forget police involvment as well when it comes to their involvment with people experiencing mental health crisis.

On the Same Page: Apart May 06, 2022

3 moms. 4 kids. 18 years in prison.

Since the beginning of the War on Drugs, the number of women in U.S. prisons has grown over 800%. The majority are mothers.

In a Midwestern state caught between harsh drug sentencing and rising incarceration for women, three unforgettable mothers—Tomika, Lydia, and Amanda— return home from prison and rebuild their lives after being separated from their children for years. Their stories overlap at a new reentry program for women, run by Malika, an advocate formerly incarcerated in the same prison.

Filmed over 3 ½ years, APART, by Independent Lens and PBS, traces their steps as they reconstruct lives derailed by drugs and prison.

Ethical Journalism, Wokeism, and Misinformation: Part 2 Apr 23, 2022

This week we're wrapping up our conversation with Ginnie Graham of the Tulsa World on ethical journalism. Ginnie Graham was born and raised in Oklahoma. She is now an editorial writer for the Tulsa World Opinion section.

We got into the weeds of what reporting looks like in Oklahoma and where Oklahomans should be a little more wary when reading about crime.

Ethical Journalism, Wokeism, and Misinformation: Part 1 Apr 15, 2022

This week we were so grateful to have Ginnie Graham of the Tulsa World on with us as we detailed ethical journalism. Ginnie Graham was born and raised in Oklahoma. She is now an editorial writer for the Tulsa World Opinion section.

We looked at this in the lens of crime reporting and criminal legal reform reporting. Though this topic is big, we hope you join us as we dive into misinformation, how journalists are using your emotions against you, wokeism, and so much more.

A Win for Employers & Employees: Second Chance Employment & the R.I.S.E Program Apr 08, 2022

This week we had the opportunity to interview Christie Luther of the R.I.S.E. Program, INC here in Oklahoma. The R.IS.E. Program is a 501c3 non-profit organization which teaches Oklahoma's incarcerated women the vocational skills of Cosmetology. (With no cost to the women, their families, state tax dollars, or Federal grants or loans).

The need for second chance employment is extreme. Mass incarceration affects more people than you may think. 1 in 3 American adults has a criminal record, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. On top of that, according to the National HIRE Network, “Nearly 75% of formerly incarcerated individuals are still unemployed a year after release.”

On the Same Page: The Direct Line from American Prisons to Slavery Apr 01, 2022

Welcome back to our book series, On the Same Page. This week we're discussing the award winning, American Prison: A Reporter's Undercover Journey into the Business of Punishment by Shane Bauer.

In this non-fiction novel, Bauer, an investigative reporter for Mother Jones magazine, decides to dig into America's prison-for-profit system. As a sneak peak, we were not ready for the bluntness, racial inequitities, and the present-day realities that were detailed in this book.

HB 3848: Using Big Data to Improve the Criminal Legal System Mar 25, 2022

A comprehensive new database designed to evalute everything from what Oklahomans are being charged with to who is taking plea deal and what kinds.

In the moment, no one in Oklahoma has a comprehensive look at Oklahoma's criminal legal system or the prison and jail populations.

Listen along with us today as we are joined by Ryan Kiesel to learn about HB 3848 and how data can cure some of Oklahoma's self inflicted wounds after decades of over-incarceration.

Tackling Oklahoma Debtors Prison in the Legislature Mar 21, 2022

Join us today as we dive into fines and fees reform in Oklahoma with David Gateley of the Oklahoma Policy Institute. We're diving into three bills surrounding fines and fees reform with an added sneak peak into our expungement episode and the massive effect all of these bills would have on hundreds of thousands of Oklahomans.

Currently, the state's court system receives relatively little in payments from offenders who have been assessed fines and fees. It's estimated that 70 percent of criminal-court fines and fees assessed to criminal defendants are never paid. Over $630 million in criminal court fines and fees went uncollected in Oklahoma from 2012 to 2018. With these egregious numbers, there's no question as to why this is a bipartisan effort in Oklahoma.

On the Same Page: How Criminal Legal Literature Hits Close to Home Mar 11, 2022

Just Mercy emphasizes the importance of active resistance to unfair institutions. Bryan Stevenson describes the racism, corruption, mass incarceration, the role of police, and cruelty that pervade American court systems and lead to the systematic abuse of marginalized communities.

In our first episode of our book club, On the Same Page, we discuss how this book manifests in the criminal legal system in real life in Oklahoma. We talk on cases such as Rebecca Hogue, Brittany Poolaw, Trichell Jones, and more. Additionally, for this monthly series, we teach how books like this can make us all better, more informed, advocates.

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