Podcast Episodes
Back to SearchThe Most Dangerous Person in Federal Prison Camp Isn't Who You Think
In federal prison camps—while violence is rare—gossip can be just as dangerous. One man was pulled out of the camp at 5 a.m. and never came back. Six…
1 year, 3 months ago
17 Years Ago I Went To Federal Prison Camp
Seventeen years ago, I self-surrendered to federal prison thinking 18 months felt like a lifetime. But after meeting men serving 6, 10, 15 years for …
1 year, 3 months ago
Why George Santos Will Fit Right In At Federal Prison
At sentencing, vague claims like "I tried my best" fall flat. Judges expect clear proof of remorse, accountability, and an action plan—not excuses. G…
1 year, 3 months ago
My Greatest Advice To Anyone Facing a Sentencing Hearing
I'm in Dana Point celebrating Matt Boyer's 50th. Matt's the bookmaker tied to the Shohei Ohtani case. When we first spoke, he told me, "I did it. I'm…
1 year, 3 months ago
She Served Time With Elizabeth Holmes—and Tried to Sell Me the Story for $5,000
Someone offered to sell me details about Elizabeth Holmes' daily routine in prison—what she eats, how often she showers, and when she calls home—for …
1 year, 3 months ago
Red Flag: This Excuse Just Cost Him 3 Points and More Federal Prison Time
Seventeen years after surrendering to federal prison, I got a call that reminded me how easy it is to screw this up. A defendant had his acceptance o…
1 year, 3 months ago
Lessons From A Prison Quiet Room at 5:00AM
In this week's newsletter, I revisit a 5 a.m. conversation in prison that introduced me to Tabula Rasa—John Locke's idea of the clean slate. I reflec…
1 year, 3 months ago
California Cut Reentry Budgets For Prisoners—Here’s What We Did
Due to budget cuts, the California Department of Corrections is eliminating funding for all reentry programs. That means fewer opportunities for peop…
1 year, 3 months ago
Red Flag: Blowing Off the Most Important Interview of Your Life
A doctor who pled guilty to tax charges reached out, worried about his upcoming probation interview. His lawyer said it was no big deal—just a short …
1 year, 3 months ago
He Admitted to Steroids. I Admitted to Fraud. Everything Changed
While golfing with an old friend, a former professional baseball player, he shared how taking steroids shaped his career. Though many players dodged …
1 year, 3 months ago