There’s a reason why the sentence given to these individuals is LWOP. As a father that had to bury a child to the senseless act of violence done by one of these criminals, I have no sympathy for them. They have a life, my daughter doesn’t. Walk a mile in the shoes of someone like myself. I grieve everyday. I will never forget or forgive.
Just because these men learned to say what others want to hear doesn’t mean that they have changed! Baby rape, killing, ext… are evil acts keep the evil where it can’t hurt anyone else
I absolutely agree. I never took a life but I unfortunately had a CDC early G number and caused some unnecessary pain to people that didn’t deserve it at all. When your in these facilities most people do get religious all of a sudden. I’m sorry for your loss.
I worked in a prison, dealt with “these guys”. This is all an act , they always take the most well spoken, “chill” inmates for these types of videos and the inmates are just putting on a front. These guys are violent ANIMALS. Sick mother fuckers that will kill you over looking at them wrong
I am so sorry about your daughter 💔 I pray you have peace in your heart one day in Jesus name. Sometimes forgiving people is not just for them, but also for us. It’s like having poison in our hearts all of our lives for someone else’s mistake. One thing that helped me with forgiveness is realizing that if we would like God to forgive us our trespasses, then we must forgive those who trespass against us.🥺🙏
On a similar tip, all jokes aside despite the fact I realize it comes off like I’m tryna be funny, “Rub one out before you go see that chick who’s been playing games with your emotions, then decide if you still want to see her”. I know way too many men who got overly emotional over basic females who weren’t ever interested in the men beyond what they could do for them, crash out and k*ll either the chick or the chick’s other companion when it never had to happen. Doing all kinds of time now over a chick who doesn’t so much as think about their incarcerated ass. Smh. Often men get so caught up in emotion that we overlook the moment in time where we can save ourselves before we crash- and when it comes to dealing with toxic women (I realize they hard to avoid because they can be fun as MF in a lot of ways lol), that often involves rubbing one out before you make your next move regarding a chick . The post 🌰clarity is not a joke, yall know this!!!!
Wow! Tears 🥺😢 such a great podcast and work done by Jon and the institutional staff at Calipatria, by allowing a podcast to be done with the “Real Ones” with LWOP. I was a lifer inmate, was at Calipatria at 21 yrs old; having served over 20 years since I was 17 yrs old and was released at 38 yrs old. Today a drug and alcohol counselor, because I went to college while incarcerated and found my life purpose-helping others. Jon thank you 🙌🏼👏🏼💪🏼 keep up the good work.
What an amazing testimony! I’m so sorry you had to serve that much time. I feel the United States have turned incarnations into a money making profitable endeavor for many business owners who build and supply prisons. I feel it’s gotten out of hand. Not acceptable to me😐😞
@@rustyshackleford1908 this is california. you dont get life without parole for jaywalking. as someone who has been the victim of crime multiple times, i dont give a rats behind what happens to these miscreants...
@@thewkovacs316 1st mistake: living in California. 2nd mistake: assuming murder is the only reason people get LWOP. There are many, MANY different reasons. 3rd mistake: you show your bias by literally stating "I don't care what happens" followed by an insulting term. It'd be a shame if you got wrongfully convicted and people had the same attitude towards you, wouldn't it?
Jon-I just saw your JRE clip on Shia LeBeouf. Well stated, sir. Shia is a wounded soul. It was a blessing that you hosted him. Your words on how your past has made you a totally committed father & husband-struck me. You are a younger version of my husband. We were married 33 years, and he died suddenly 9 months ago. He was what you described. And I was so lucky to have him as my husband. 🙏. My life is so different now-I’m alone way before I thought I would be. Life is a journey of suffering, and we grab joy where we can. Deep grief has revealed many new truths to me. God is good. 🙏
My entire family has been in and out of prison my whole life! I'm very fortunate to have broken that cycle! I get to wake up everyday and be a father to my kids. I get to be present and that's the greatest gift in the world!
I grew up in prison. Went to San Quentin from CYA on my 18th birthday. I got out June 7th 2003 and been out 20 years now but I'll never forget it. I was 18 and had a cell mate doing life without and I wouldn't be the man I am without his guidance and insight.
Congratulations! Thats a big deal. Most get stuck in an in & out cycle. Your old cellie is proud & he knows he had an impact on you which I’m sure means a lot to him.
John out of all the places in the world you could be you choose to sit down with these men and give them your time and listen to them which is something that will stay with them the rest of their life. You are a role model to me and I hope one day I’ll be able to make a difference in ppl life like you do.
When he says "Nobody wants to be alone", hit me real hard. This is absolutely great content, i´ve trying to find a real example of masculinity and leadership, some inspiration in this confusing times for so many men without a path, looking for our place in the world and this is such a huge lesson for me, thanks Jon, this is great. Greetings from Mexico
The level of insight and self-reflection on display here is truly profound. These guys are true contemplatives. What's more, is their ability to articulate and communicate profound emotional truths from their lives in a way that deeply resonates and connects with the human experience. Wow.
This guys didn’t know that until someone fed it to them. So called self reflection and saying they were denied anything as kids. What about all those people who didn’t take that route? If life has thought me anything. You make decisions and you live by those decisions good or bad you made that choice now live by it. Period
@@creasybear4426 why you gotta be negative for? At least they are aware of their wrong doing and trying to make it right they should get a second chance this life is limited as is.
@@creasybear4426 I guess you're perfect and have never made a mistake in your life. You don't have to feed anything to anyone. As someone currently incarcerated, the one thing you have plenty of time to do is think 🤔and reflect on your mistakes and life...with reflection and time comes growth and development. You learn how to think, how to make better choices and decisions that will have a long term impact on your life. Kids really don't know how to think at such a young age . We're mentally immature full on dumb ass and you're right everyone didn't take the wrong course of action in life, the probably had a greater guidance system in place and a better support system that enabled them to thrive in different areas of their lives. Please, don't be so critical, you were young once and have made some horrible decisions that no one knows about. Peace and Blessings
there's people that talk about changing the world, and then there's people that really make the change and the difference. You're a inspiration to do the work, the real work, the one that a lot talk about but few do, thanks man
What an amazing episode my loved one is currently at Calipatria. Thank you for giving yourself, them this opportunity and an outlook for ppl who judge them because of where they are at.
I love these prison/jail interviews you can tell that they just want someone to listen to them. Such a blessing you are giving them a platform to use their voice which seems like a bit of freedom to them ❤
Glad to see the Punisher taking Daredevil’s advice. There is always hope. Jon you are truly a remarkable, kind and empathetic person. Wish you and your family joy and everyone else out there too. A true role model you are sir.
I just hate the religious rhetoric, Bible thumpers love infiltrating prisons and catching people at their lowest moments when they will grasp at anything to stay above water, very disgusting practice these Xtians have. They take advantage of inmates in their most vulnerable state and indoctrinate them with nonsense to to join in their delusion. Why not offer the help needed without pushing what you believe ?
Very POWERFUL episode !!! I’ve done 5 years in a federal prison. It’s nothing compared to most of these men doing life But for people to get a deep insight on how alot of inmates think and actually do the work to rehabilitate is beautiful. Majority of people judge without actually hearing or knowing a inmates story. So I give huge props to JON for doing this and shedding a positive light on the ones really doing the work to change and better themselves. CHANGE IS A BEAUTIFUL THING❤️
This one got to me. I'm 56 years old and I was adopted by loving parents when I was six months old. Everything I have now is because they taught me how to live in this world. Without them, I might have been in this video. I love my mum and pop and appreciate them always, but especially when I see videos like this. Hope is a powerful engine. It is the theme of my favorite Stephen King story, Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption, a story Frank Darabont adapted into a great film. Thank you, Jon, for showing the humanity in these men, these children of God.
This is the outcome of neglect , hatred and abusiveness . Give your children discipline , but also with love ❤️ and compassion . God bless these men and may they find salvation
Jon, this August will be 12 years since I paroled from Calipatria and didn’t look back. I now have a beautiful family, happily married with four kids. Thank you for this video. Second, third and even fourth chances are real. I think the prison system and the LWOP community need to work together to connect with their victim’s families and get the closure that can heal these wounds. And get them a another shot at life. God bless.
I had 25 to life on three strikes law and released 10-31-2013. Been out over 9 years doing good. Struggling still but determined. These guys are getting out in the future.
@@defunddemocrats2470receiving stolen property to burglary. Battery on Officers. From 1980-92, those were the crimes that gave me strikes. Only witnesses were cops words. That’s all it took. I’m not talking about armed violent felonies. Before cameras. I would never have been to prison or jail if we had cameras back then. Never.
Everyone of these men were kids who were hurt rejected ignored abused as kids. Society has compassion for those kids but forget this is the path for many. Turning to religion makes sense cause it's not another person who can hurt them. It's an anchor to hope for many. I say this as an atheist.
@@sellcryptonow6806 ... my father was killed and i sat thru 3 wk trial and yet I can still have an understanding of the circumstances that led up to the murderers life. Not even about forgiveness but about grasping why some people do what they do
There's a saying back in the old country. There are no hopeless situations, only hopeless people, never lose hope. Perfectly encapsulates these gentlemen, bigger men then most I've ever met or will ever meet.
Heavy stuff. Hurts my heart. Humans are amazing in what they can endure but even more astonishing is how sometimes they can find light in the darkest dark.
Wow brotha this episode was eye opening... im not locked up but the things the ward said hit on the money. Keep doing these interviews i love watching them much love and respect!!!!
how many of us would have ended up there , if not for a Dad,friend,,brother, mom, teacher, ...that one person that took interest on you . I know I'd have been one , if not for my son . Thanks Jon . This means a lot for those guys.
One of the most heartfelt podcast I've seen each and every one of these men brought tears to my eyes I feel what they feel thank God top to the bottom Warden allowing these programs to come to begin to change the hearts and minds of these men to bring hope I pray and believe there is much much bigger and better things to come to these individuals that put in the to better their lives thank God for John having the mindset to come in and do a podcast like the one man said don't leave them hanging now keep coming back and doing more podcast
Hang in their brother! My best advice is to hook up with an organization or church where you can talk about your feelings and maybe even one of these organizations has a prison ministry that you can get involved with! Don't give up!
I'm really happy you did this, these men have changed and are a testament to ability of people to better themselves. It's easy for people on the outside to just write them off because of whatever got them in prison. But they are still people, not animals but human beings. So many people get out of prison that haven't done a fraction of the rehabilitation these men have done. I truly hope things change and these men can have freedom again and continue the work they started inside. But then help kids from going down that road.
@@daryldixon3685 true. I do believe there are major problems with sentencing guidelines, there has to be a fair punishment for crime. Of course some people will say things like, just kill them all. That's not how things work. They did wrong, no doubt. But I also believe these men did the work to rehabilitate themselves far more than the average person that commits lesser crimes. But then there is recidivism. I once heard it said as, some people are doing life on the installment plan. The system should punish for crimes. But also rehabilitate so to minimize crimes from that person in the future. Somehow we miss the second part a lot in the US.
Are all of them really changed? If they had a chance too see this before they did what they did too get here, would they have done it? Would they do it again if let out? Alot of guys find God in the trenches....
@@briansharp4388 of course. The saying I've heard people say is Jesus lives in the box. Easy to find religion and play like you have changed. My "brother" changed and then got back on drugs. But he finally faced his reality. He was doing life on the installment plan. Now he is out and been clean, had a good job, married a kid. People can change. I'm not saying everyone does, a lot of prisons don't have programs like these guys did. Would they do crime again? I don't know. But we don't know if the guy who was on drugs and stole stuff who finished up 5 years has changed. Theft crimes are the most likely to return, most often drug related. So it's hard to say who does and doesn't deserve a chance.
@@michaels2208 my older cousin told me" go ahead, keep it up and you will wind up in prison, I have people in every prison in the US, I can get you Anywhere. You will wake up getting your ass beat, you will go to bed after getting your ass beat every night, I don't care how many it takes, don't care what depth I gotta call in" his son, my second cousin, didn't listen....he's doing life without parole in San Quentin....the fool shot at a guy from a moving car, and blew the head off a 13 year old girl....some people belong in prison
I’m part of Narcotics Anonymous and I be been to jail many times and was an addict my whole life. I truly think 12 steps programs can change a persons life and require their brain to be a beautiful person if you put effort into it.
Congratulations Dustin, on doing the work and putting yourself in a better position despite the lifelong struggles you've had, me and many others are proud of you brother.
I ran for Congress in CA-25 and visited Calipatria Prison. It was a humbling experience, and after speaking to both COs, the administration and former inmates, I realized that prison reform and recidivism starts with communities and kids. Thank you for making this documentary and for giving all perspectives. At the end of the day, we are all human beings and the ability to react and make decisions is what defines our character. Like the inmate said, no one wants to be alone.
I had two eye opening experiences in prison..1st was when the first paper I filled out was who to notify and where to send my body in case of death..second was when a lifer sat me down for a conversation
Really enjoy the content Jon. You’re BY FAR my favorite actor. Every time I see you in a new film i run out to see it. Really happy to see what you’re doing now man
these men have such a great attitude!! in prison for life with almost certainly ZERO change to EVER get out and still finding a reason to love. still finding a reason to look out for others. well done men!!
Jon B! I am from Clifton Park, Saratoga County, NY! I love you as an actor! This is the most important thing you have ever done, in my humble opinion! Your a trailblazer! Truly now a trailblazer! You are the right guy for the right job!
Sending these men a hug and Blessings. I personally go to the valot poll and look for change in our prison system to give them a second chance in life. I had a friend come and live with me after doing 11yrs inside. Hes now living with hes girlfriend and working. He always says :Thank you for opening your home when I had nowhere to go" My message is just dont judge . GOD BLESS
These guys are smart. Sad to see what bad decisions can do to intelligent people, they would've been rich successful individuals in another life. "Chemical escape" is such a nice way to put it when talking about doing drugs. (Idk if it's a popular saying because English isn't my primary language but it's a dope way to say it)
Young kid from my home town just got LWOP and is at Calipatria. His accomplice just got the same and hasn't caught the chain up to state. I didn't know them they were younger than me but It sometimes hits home. Sad for all these guys no matter what their crime.
Wow, incredible podcast. Listening to these guys is heart wrenching. I love the humbleness of, I think they said his name was Brett Mays. Geez, I mean he acknowledges hey my decisions are what got me in here and this prison probably saved my life. IMO, you can tell he is being honest with how he feels! I do not know how long ago this was made and how he is doing today, but, Brett you are in my prayers brother!
I’ve done about four years incarcerated and that shit felt like forever I feel for these guys. All of us make mistakes some of us never have to pay and others pay with there life. I pray for all y’all🙏🏽
Jon is amazing. This dude changed my life in how he respect and treats people. We needed to hear this story and he was not afraid to share it. Having watched his life story I believe he wanted to share the lives of inmates knowing that he too may have been one. I don't necessarily believe in god but I wish him and his family a blessed life, and I hope these inmates find peace.
My new favorite podcast! Nobody listens, truly cares, and asks such great questions like Jon! /// This episode was like ice cold water on the face! Incredible! Refreshingly Brutal. Makes me want to get involved with the prison system in someway - somehow. Every human being on planet earth is a blink away from LWOP. - If they don’t think so they’re totally unaware of themselves - their heart - and just don’t know how wicked and sin filled (to the brim) they are,… we are,… as a human race. // BUT ALL have fallen short. Some just FELL too far for the rest of us Sinners to tolerate. BUT Jesus came to seek and save the lost, the liars, thieves, murderers of mankind - no matter how far fallen. The Bible is the only Truth. The only place of peace for the free or the caged.
I love your comment and your message, but not everyone is a blink away from LWOP… That’s a ridiculous statement man. No disrespect to any of these men or women in this situation, but I’m nothing like them..
@@bobbyfischer9927 living in a peaceful free bubble is a beautiful place to be until it gets popped. God has blessed America with so much Feedom, law, order, and ease that we do not often realize the brutality without or within. But I get ya.
"Every human being on planet earth is a blink away from LWOP" This is so true. My best friend, one of the sweetest and kindest people I ever knew, suffers from severe schizophrenia. One night during an episode he ended up murdering his girlfriend and her grandparents who he lived with then called the police on himself. This is just a couple days after he was telling me how much he loves her and her grandparents and how grateful he is to them. Despite his severe mental illness he was sentenced to life without parole a couple of months ago. Truly heartbreaking how your whole life can change in the blink of an eye.
Man this is a very cool perspective on the other side of the justice system. I work in in the legal field and really do appreciate this opportunity to educate myself.
My brother just got transferred away from Calipat after serving 18 of his 19 year sentence there. They transferred him to a prison near Salton Sea since he will be deported once his time is competed. I remember he would tell me that they’d constantly be on lockdowns for weeks before finally being let out of his cell. Takes a tremendous amount of strength to get though this amount of mental and physical battle with those walls…
@@H3rrera_ I think that persons comment was like about , maybe you suffering as well because your bro is gone .. he wasn’t saying in a negative way man he was checking on you to make sure u doing alright although you’ve technically lost someone close to u .. u know ?
John you are such a good man I seen you years ago in the airport when you were not this big of a start you were so cool polite to my mom and I’ll never forget how kind you were .. take care man we in the military love your show of the punisher 👍
I have a family member doing life without parole and they’ve been inside for 36 years now and I think that the best thing to do is to terminate their relationship it’s hard to do that but if you don’t, it’s just an endless cycle of anger, guilt, remorse, hatred love whatever emotion you can think of it just goes around in circles I think if you end the relationship you’re better off because I think you get past it somehow but most people don’t do that
God bless all these men who are part of the it really made me think and reflect on how close I was to getting life at one point in life and how blessed I am to be here and not in there I pray all of them never lose hope
These guys are so intelligent, and they might never offend again. Unfortunately actions have consequences however. Wish them the best. Freedom is priceless. Never take it for granted.
It's a trip because I was incarcerated with all of those men.real humble and respectful men.💯 I only did 5 years in Calipatria.but these men have been down more then 20 plus years.they are speaking real shit.seen it.been through it.but really have changed.i apologize to the families who have lost a loved one.i really do.but these men are really remorseful.i promise you.i could go on and on about alot of these men with life that I have met.if they were let out.i promise u they can reach out to so many people.change to many young lifes.give back to the community's we came from.and just expand.🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽💪🏽💪🏽 to the world.please hear these men out.i was incarcerated for 19 plus years.been out almost 5.we can make it.and make a change.
Showing light into folks who have clearly thought about their lives and can articulate their path forwards is very meaningful....We all make mistakes and we can all change.... only if you want it. * absolute kudos to the administration for trying to make some change.*
I knew that Jon was an insightful person just from listening to the podcast, but hearing him speak to Rogan on his podcast…I’ve never heard Joe be so quiet and listen. Keep up the good work my man
Great program. I commend you on the work you are doing as well as the staff members and men who are connecting with each other and seeing the value in each other as human beings. Ase Ase Ase 0
Wow I’m a fan of your work in Hollywood!! But for you to give a voice to the forgotten means a lot because people make mistakes in life and everyone deserves a second chance!!!
Yeah, LWOP there ain't no future in that. When I first went to prison in California there were only nine prisons you could go to, at that time the ones you didn't want to go to were S.Q., Old Folsom, Tracy and Soledad central. I was 18 with a 16 year sentence. From Vacaville I went to Tracy for 3 years before I got in trouble there, points went to level 4 on the next thing smoking to Folsom. I always heard stories about Folsom and thought it was the coolest place to be until I got there. At Tracy dudes had dates, they were going home someday, at Folsom dudes were not ever getting out, if they weren't LWOP they had what we called a Buck Roger's date, this was in the 80s and I remember dudes showing me their E.P.R.D. of like 2040. And a lot of them do turn to dope, and once they start doing that the natural progression of a lifer is to live that life, drugs, violence and no hope. A lot of LWOPS have lost any hope.
@JON @JON, My cousin was incarcerated at the age of 17 back in 1991. He was one of the first wave of inmates to arrive at Calipatria State Prison when it opened. He spent a total of 30 years in prison. He is now a youth counselor for the Los Angeles Probation Department. Not only did he pay his debt to society but in now giving back to his community. He originally received a 7 to life sentence and was released in 2021. He would be a great interview for your Podcast!!! @JON
I'm not gonna lie I'm a grown man and this shit made me cry they truly are reformed and it's sad they'll never get a 2nd change but yet child molesters barely do time and get set free.....
This is all well and good but where is the Justice for the victims?? Justice and well being of families of victims. Psychopaths/Sociopaths are great at assimilation. They learn to tell parole,probation Etc.exactly what they wanna hear to get the things they want. So families have to feel unsafe to give these guys another chance. Pass.
Wow,. Great episode. I think it's excellent what they are doing there. I don't understand why more prisons aren't doing what they are doing. If these guys don't have something to look forward to, if they don't have these programs or these classes or something like that they have absolutely nothing to look forward to. And that's when drug abuse and violence really take over. These guys said this prison isn't really known for the violence anymore. Things have really changed. Great job. Thank you.
There’s a reason why the sentence given to these individuals is LWOP. As a father that had to bury a child to the senseless act of violence done by one of these criminals, I have no sympathy for them. They have a life, my daughter doesn’t. Walk a mile in the shoes of someone like myself. I grieve everyday. I will never forget or forgive.
Just because these men learned to say what others want to hear doesn’t mean that they have changed! Baby rape, killing, ext… are evil acts keep the evil where it can’t hurt anyone else
I absolutely agree. I never took a life but I unfortunately had a CDC early G number and caused some unnecessary pain to people that didn’t deserve it at all. When your in these facilities most people do get religious all of a sudden. I’m sorry for your loss.
I worked in a prison, dealt with “these guys”. This is all an act , they always take the most well spoken, “chill” inmates for these types of videos and the inmates are just putting on a front. These guys are violent ANIMALS. Sick mother fuckers that will kill you over looking at them wrong
I am so sorry about your daughter 💔
I pray you have peace in your heart one day in Jesus name. Sometimes forgiving people is not just for them, but also for us. It’s like having poison in our hearts all of our lives for someone else’s mistake. One thing that helped me with forgiveness is realizing that if we would like God to forgive us our trespasses, then we must forgive those who trespass against us.🥺🙏
Do you have proof you can't believe anything on internet theses days
Being alone is better than keeping bad company.
Big Facts, Learned that at 25, 29 Now!
I’m 48 and living it! ✊🏽
On a similar tip, all jokes aside despite the fact I realize it comes off like I’m tryna be funny, “Rub one out before you go see that chick who’s been playing games with your emotions, then decide if you still want to see her”.
I know way too many men who got overly emotional over basic females who weren’t ever interested in the men beyond what they could do for them, crash out and k*ll either the chick or the chick’s other companion when it never had to happen. Doing all kinds of time now over a chick who doesn’t so much as think about their incarcerated ass. Smh.
Often men get so caught up in emotion that we overlook the moment in time where we can save ourselves before we crash- and when it comes to dealing with toxic women (I realize they hard to avoid because they can be fun as MF in a lot of ways lol), that often involves rubbing one out before you make your next move regarding a chick . The post 🌰clarity is not a joke, yall know this!!!!
So true.
Wow! Tears 🥺😢 such a great podcast and work done by Jon and the institutional staff at Calipatria, by allowing a podcast to be done with the “Real Ones” with LWOP. I was a lifer inmate, was at Calipatria at 21 yrs old; having served over 20 years since I was 17 yrs old and was released at 38 yrs old. Today a drug and alcohol counselor, because I went to college while incarcerated and found my life purpose-helping others. Jon thank you 🙌🏼👏🏼💪🏼 keep up the good work.
What an amazing testimony! I’m so sorry you had to serve that much time. I feel the United States have turned incarnations into a money making profitable endeavor for many business owners who build and supply prisons. I feel it’s gotten out of hand. Not acceptable to me😐😞
great....the person or persons you murdered never got that chance. you think about that
@@thewkovacs316 how do you know they murdered someone?
@@rustyshackleford1908 this is california. you dont get life without parole for jaywalking. as someone who has been the victim of crime multiple times, i dont give a rats behind what happens to these miscreants...
@@thewkovacs316 1st mistake: living in California.
2nd mistake: assuming murder is the only reason people get LWOP. There are many, MANY different reasons.
3rd mistake: you show your bias by literally stating "I don't care what happens" followed by an insulting term. It'd be a shame if you got wrongfully convicted and people had the same attitude towards you, wouldn't it?
Jon-I just saw your JRE clip on Shia LeBeouf. Well stated, sir. Shia is a wounded soul. It was a blessing that you hosted him.
Your words on how your past has made you a totally committed father & husband-struck me. You are a younger version of my husband. We were married 33 years, and he died suddenly 9 months ago. He was what you described. And I was so lucky to have him as my husband. 🙏. My life is so different now-I’m alone way before I thought I would be. Life is a journey of suffering, and we grab joy where we can. Deep grief has revealed many new truths to me. God is good. 🙏
May he Rest In Peace. And you're not alone, we just cant see the ones that left us in the physical. At least for the most part.
Rip sounds like he was truly a rare thing a great guy bet he's watching you proud as hell
✝️
"God", is a delusion.
My entire family has been in and out of prison my whole life! I'm very fortunate to have broken that cycle! I get to wake up everyday and be a father to my kids. I get to be present and that's the greatest gift in the world!
I’d pay good money for a weekly LWOP podcast. And thank you Jon for shining a light into places most people will never see.
not a LWOP podcast but Ear Hustle is a fantastic podcast.
This^^^ glad I’m not the only one. 😢
can somebody explain why i see so many Non-caucasian prison inmates??, like 70 percent of the US population is white
As would I!
Even a monthly LWOP
I grew up in prison. Went to San Quentin from CYA on my 18th birthday. I got out June 7th 2003 and been out 20 years now but I'll never forget it. I was 18 and had a cell mate doing life without and I wouldn't be the man I am without his guidance and insight.
Congratulations! Thats a big deal. Most get stuck in an in & out cycle. Your old cellie is proud & he knows he had an impact on you which I’m sure means a lot to him.
John out of all the places in the world you could be you choose to sit down with these men and give them your time and listen to them which is something that will stay with them the rest of their life. You are a role model to me and I hope one day I’ll be able to make a difference in ppl life like you do.
He a REAL ONE
that's Frank Caslte
When he says "Nobody wants to be alone", hit me real hard. This is absolutely great content, i´ve trying to find a real example of masculinity and leadership, some inspiration in this confusing times for so many men without a path, looking for our place in the world and this is such a huge lesson for me, thanks Jon, this is great. Greetings from Mexico
Chingon
@El Vato Negro give Jordan Peterson a listen.. probably will change your life
This is phenomenal nobody is doing this type of thing in the podcast world.
the way Jon just focuses and listens and tries to understand whether he agrees or not is what we need in life.
Thanks Jon.
You got to do it, listen totally to yourself first.
thank you Frank Caslte
I hope you can keep checking in with these guys. You're clearly making a difference just by being there and talking. Cheers Jon and crew.
The level of insight and self-reflection on display here is truly profound. These guys are true contemplatives. What's more, is their ability to articulate and communicate profound emotional truths from their lives in a way that deeply resonates and connects with the human experience. Wow.
This guys didn’t know that until someone fed it to them. So called self reflection and saying they were denied anything as kids. What about all those people who didn’t take that route? If life has thought me anything. You make decisions and you live by those decisions good or bad you made that choice now live by it. Period
@@creasybear4426 why you gotta be negative for? At least they are aware of their wrong doing and trying to make it right they should get a second chance this life is limited as is.
@@creasybear4426 If life hasnt taught you about empathy and that people are different then you're inexperience in life.
can somebody explain why i see so many Non-caucasian prison inmates??, like 70 percent of the US population is white
@@creasybear4426 I guess you're perfect and have never made a mistake in your life. You don't have to feed anything to anyone. As someone currently incarcerated, the one thing you have plenty of time to do is think 🤔and reflect on your mistakes and life...with reflection and time comes growth and development. You learn how to think, how to make better choices and decisions that will have a long term impact on your life. Kids really don't know how to think at such a young age . We're mentally immature full on dumb ass and you're right everyone didn't take the wrong course of action in life, the probably had a greater guidance system in place and a better support system that enabled them to thrive in different areas of their lives. Please, don't be so critical, you were young once and have made some horrible decisions that no one knows about. Peace and Blessings
there's people that talk about changing the world, and then there's people that really make the change and the difference. You're a inspiration to do the work, the real work, the one that a lot talk about but few do, thanks man
What an amazing episode my loved one is currently at Calipatria. Thank you for giving yourself, them this opportunity and an outlook for ppl who judge them because of where they are at.
Ive seeen u att visitt
I love these prison/jail interviews you can tell that they just want someone to listen to them. Such a blessing you are giving them a platform to use their voice which seems like a bit of freedom to them ❤
God is using you John, God bless you and your family, from Philippines.
Glad to see the Punisher taking Daredevil’s advice. There is always hope. Jon you are truly a remarkable, kind and empathetic person. Wish you and your family joy and everyone else out there too. A true role model you are sir.
I most certainly agree. Great role model.
Nah daredevil is a pssy
This is real life.
Life is Life in Florida there's no parole here
I just hate the religious rhetoric, Bible thumpers love infiltrating prisons and catching people at their lowest moments when they will grasp at anything to stay above water, very disgusting practice these Xtians have. They take advantage of inmates in their most vulnerable state and indoctrinate them with nonsense to to join in their delusion. Why not offer the help needed without pushing what you believe ?
Very POWERFUL episode !!! I’ve done 5 years in a federal prison. It’s nothing compared to most of these men doing life But for people to get a deep insight on how alot of inmates think and actually do the work to rehabilitate is beautiful. Majority of people judge without actually hearing or knowing a inmates story. So I give huge props to JON for doing this and shedding a positive light on the ones really doing the work to change and better themselves.
CHANGE IS A BEAUTIFUL THING❤️
Thank you for taking your time and energy to show that men like them can change and are willing to put in the work 🙏🏼
If they murdered kids like one of these did then no. They deserve nothing but to die in a box
This one got to me. I'm 56 years old and I was adopted by loving parents when I was six months old. Everything I have now is because they taught me how to live in this world. Without them, I might have been in this video. I love my mum and pop and appreciate them always, but especially when I see videos like this. Hope is a powerful engine. It is the theme of my favorite Stephen King story, Rita Hayworth and Shawshank Redemption, a story Frank Darabont adapted into a great film. Thank you, Jon, for showing the humanity in these men, these children of God.
Bravo Upload..
Dam I spent 3 Nights Locked Up and it Felt like A Month.. Time Seem to Stop..
Value My Freedom Like I Value My Life..
This is the outcome of neglect , hatred and abusiveness . Give your children discipline , but also with love ❤️ and compassion . God bless these men and may they find salvation
Much respect to you jon. Giving individuals a chance to be heard. Thank you for taking interest.
DOPE!
Jon, this August will be 12 years since I paroled from Calipatria and didn’t look back. I now have a beautiful family, happily married with four kids. Thank you for this video. Second, third and even fourth chances are real. I think the prison system and the LWOP community need to work together to connect with their victim’s families and get the closure that can heal these wounds. And get them a another shot at life.
God bless.
Rock on brother. I'm proud of you
U never told me u was a criminal dad!!!? I am sneaking out with my friends now for sure
Right on bro, I paroled 15yrs ago also have a family and change my life, it can be done. 15%er Club
Kool u don't think Jon reads any of this
I had 25 to life on three strikes law and released 10-31-2013. Been out over 9 years doing good. Struggling still but determined. These guys are getting out in the future.
All the power to you dude. Things will work out for you.
@@williamdon3442 10 years out. Stopped doing drugs that all it took.
@Jeffery Drevdahl what were the crimes you were accused of?
@@defunddemocrats2470receiving stolen property to burglary. Battery on Officers. From 1980-92, those were the crimes that gave me strikes. Only witnesses were cops words. That’s all it took. I’m not talking about armed violent felonies. Before cameras. I would never have been to prison or jail if we had cameras back then. Never.
187 or 211
Everyone of these men were kids who were hurt rejected ignored abused as kids. Society has compassion for those kids but forget this is the path for many. Turning to religion makes sense cause it's not another person who can hurt them. It's an anchor to hope for many. I say this as an atheist.
Wow! What a statement! Have you met each one of them? Did they share with you their story of hurt and abuse? 🤔
There’s certain things that are unforgivable and most of these dude either made too many mistakes or did one of those things.
@@Youstabemweslabem ..worked with youth in jail and also adults for 12 yrs. Female and male.
@@sellcryptonow6806 ... my father was killed and i sat thru 3 wk trial and yet I can still have an understanding of the circumstances that led up to the murderers life. Not even about forgiveness but about grasping why some people do what they do
Probably close but not all people who serve life had messed up childhoods.
There's a saying back in the old country.
There are no hopeless situations, only hopeless people, never lose hope.
Perfectly encapsulates these gentlemen, bigger men then most I've ever met or will ever meet.
Heavy stuff. Hurts my heart. Humans are amazing in what they can endure but even more astonishing is how sometimes they can find light in the darkest dark.
This hits you hard if you understand it. Thus is the real work that needs to be shown to the outside, great job here Jon and crew!
Wow brotha this episode was eye opening... im not locked up but the things the ward said hit on the money. Keep doing these interviews i love watching them much love and respect!!!!
As a man who has lost it all and has made a comeback Jon is doing great work this podcast is so real its basically peaceful
how many of us would have ended up there , if not for a Dad,friend,,brother, mom, teacher, ...that one person that took interest on you .
I know I'd have been one , if not for my son .
Thanks Jon . This means a lot for those guys.
God bless you and your team Jon🙏🏼. Speechless yet overwhelmed with emotion and empowered to build awareness 🤍.
One of the most heartfelt podcast I've seen each and every one of these men brought tears to my eyes I feel what they feel thank God top to the bottom Warden allowing these programs to come to begin to change the hearts and minds of these men to bring hope I pray and believe there is much much bigger and better things to come to these individuals that put in the to better their lives thank God for John having the mindset to come in and do a podcast like the one man said don't leave them hanging now keep coming back and doing more podcast
Awesome video. Such a powerful message. I hope 🤞 all the inmates in this video & inmates alike find peace.
This is better then all prison docs I have ever seen....no joke
Using your platform for nothing but knowledge and enlightenment, absolutely beautiful!
As a depressed man, I’d genuinely like to meet these people, they’ve got hope that I need.. 😢
Hang in there brother. 🙏🏼
AppreciatiOn is something I think we don’t do enough out here
Don't Do It!!!
Hang in their brother! My best advice is to hook up with an organization or church where you can talk about your feelings and maybe even one of these organizations has a prison ministry that you can get involved with! Don't give up!
@@bobowling1931 🫶🫶
I'm a 34 year old man and i just can't stop getting teary eyed from watching this. Thank you Jon for doing what you're doing. 🙏🏼
I'm really happy you did this, these men have changed and are a testament to ability of people to better themselves. It's easy for people on the outside to just write them off because of whatever got them in prison. But they are still people, not animals but human beings. So many people get out of prison that haven't done a fraction of the rehabilitation these men have done. I truly hope things change and these men can have freedom again and continue the work they started inside. But then help kids from going down that road.
You have to do some bad shyt to get LWOP
@@daryldixon3685 true. I do believe there are major problems with sentencing guidelines, there has to be a fair punishment for crime. Of course some people will say things like, just kill them all. That's not how things work. They did wrong, no doubt. But I also believe these men did the work to rehabilitate themselves far more than the average person that commits lesser crimes. But then there is recidivism. I once heard it said as, some people are doing life on the installment plan. The system should punish for crimes. But also rehabilitate so to minimize crimes from that person in the future. Somehow we miss the second part a lot in the US.
Are all of them really changed? If they had a chance too see this before they did what they did too get here, would they have done it? Would they do it again if let out? Alot of guys find God in the trenches....
@@briansharp4388 of course. The saying I've heard people say is Jesus lives in the box. Easy to find religion and play like you have changed. My "brother" changed and then got back on drugs. But he finally faced his reality. He was doing life on the installment plan. Now he is out and been clean, had a good job, married a kid. People can change. I'm not saying everyone does, a lot of prisons don't have programs like these guys did. Would they do crime again? I don't know. But we don't know if the guy who was on drugs and stole stuff who finished up 5 years has changed. Theft crimes are the most likely to return, most often drug related. So it's hard to say who does and doesn't deserve a chance.
@@michaels2208 my older cousin told me" go ahead, keep it up and you will wind up in prison, I have people in every prison in the US, I can get you Anywhere.
You will wake up getting your ass beat, you will go to bed after getting your ass beat every night, I don't care how many it takes, don't care what depth I gotta call in" his son, my second cousin, didn't listen....he's doing life without parole in San Quentin....the fool shot at a guy from a moving car, and blew the head off a 13 year old girl....some people belong in prison
I’m part of Narcotics Anonymous and I be been to jail many times and was an addict my whole life. I truly think 12 steps programs can change a persons life and require their brain to be a beautiful person if you put effort into it.
Congratulations Dustin, on doing the work and putting yourself in a better position despite the lifelong struggles you've had, me and many others are proud of you brother.
I ran for Congress in CA-25 and visited Calipatria Prison. It was a humbling experience, and after speaking to both COs, the administration and former inmates, I realized that prison reform and recidivism starts with communities and kids. Thank you for making this documentary and for giving all perspectives. At the end of the day, we are all human beings and the ability to react and make decisions is what defines our character. Like the inmate said, no one wants to be alone.
Jon is a real 1 he's so humble he had the means to do this so these men could be heard 🙏👏
Amazing my dads been down 20 yrs this is awesome brother thank you for doing this. People need to know
Hearing and seeing hope is indescribably beautiful.
God bless you John! Thank you for doing what you do. You are the real deal sir. Never change!
I had two eye opening experiences in prison..1st was when the first paper I filled out was who to notify and where to send my body in case of death..second was when a lifer sat me down for a conversation
Change is always possible for those that want it, praying for every one of these men. For comfort and peace and that they keep moving forward 🙏
Really enjoy the content Jon. You’re BY FAR my favorite actor. Every time I see you in a new film i run out to see it. Really happy to see what you’re doing now man
Definitely the most profound series on the net to date. Keep it up Jon
Lots of love and respect Bern. Real Ones is the real deal especially for those of us that grew up in cities all over America. Keep up the hustle.
these men have such a great attitude!! in prison for life with almost certainly ZERO change to EVER get out and still finding a reason to love. still finding a reason to look out for others. well done men!!
Damn good podcast Jon B. We need more like this from behind the walls of their lives. God bless
Jon B! I am from Clifton Park, Saratoga County, NY! I love you as an actor! This is the most important thing you have ever done, in my humble opinion! Your a trailblazer! Truly now a trailblazer! You are the right guy for the right job!
Saw you on Rogan. Looking forward to checking out your library.
Sending these men a hug and Blessings. I personally go to the valot poll and look for change in our prison system to give them a second chance in life. I had a friend come and live with me after doing 11yrs inside. Hes now living with hes girlfriend and working.
He always says :Thank you for opening your home when I had nowhere to go" My message is just dont judge . GOD BLESS
Keep up the good content Jon. Giving everyone a voice, good or bad.
Shame their victims lost their voice and their life. Think on that.
Amazing video! "Growth for me brings understanding." A lot of wisdom in that statement my brother.
These guys are smart. Sad to see what bad decisions can do to intelligent people, they would've been rich successful individuals in another life. "Chemical escape" is such a nice way to put it when talking about doing drugs. (Idk if it's a popular saying because English isn't my primary language but it's a dope way to say it)
Really truly appreciate all yall time thank you for having us
Imagine been stuck in a box for 20+ years with nothing but your thoughts it’s enough bring anybody back, good luck guys i truly am routing for you
Imagine being their victims who are either dead or dealing with lifelong trauma
Young kid from my home town just got LWOP and is at Calipatria. His accomplice just got the same and hasn't caught the chain up to state. I didn't know them they were younger than me but It sometimes hits home. Sad for all these guys no matter what their crime.
No it’s not sad. They had a choice. Save the sympathy for their victims
Wow, incredible podcast. Listening to these guys is heart wrenching. I love the humbleness of, I think they said his name was Brett Mays. Geez, I mean he acknowledges hey my decisions are what got me in here and this prison probably saved my life. IMO, you can tell he is being honest with how he feels! I do not know how long ago this was made and how he is doing today, but, Brett you are in my prayers brother!
I’ve done about four years incarcerated and that shit felt like forever I feel for these guys. All of us make mistakes some of us never have to pay and others pay with there life. I pray for all y’all🙏🏽
Roger that!
Jon is amazing. This dude changed my life in how he respect and treats people. We needed to hear this story and he was not afraid to share it. Having watched his life story I believe he wanted to share the lives of inmates knowing that he too may have been one. I don't necessarily believe in god but I wish him and his family a blessed life, and I hope these inmates find peace.
My new favorite podcast! Nobody listens, truly cares, and asks such great questions like Jon! /// This episode was like ice cold water on the face! Incredible! Refreshingly Brutal. Makes me want to get involved with the prison system in someway - somehow. Every human being on planet earth is a blink away from LWOP. - If they don’t think so they’re totally unaware of themselves - their heart - and just don’t know how wicked and sin filled (to the brim) they are,… we are,… as a human race. // BUT ALL have fallen short. Some just FELL too far for the rest of us Sinners to tolerate. BUT Jesus came to seek and save the lost, the liars, thieves, murderers of mankind - no matter how far fallen. The Bible is the only Truth. The only place of peace for the free or the caged.
I love your comment and your message, but not everyone is a blink away from LWOP… That’s a ridiculous statement man. No disrespect to any of these men or women in this situation, but I’m nothing like them..
@@bobbyfischer9927 living in a peaceful free bubble is a beautiful place to be until it gets popped. God has blessed America with so much Feedom, law, order, and ease that we do not often realize the brutality without or within. But I get ya.
"Every human being on planet earth is a blink away from LWOP"
This is so true. My best friend, one of the sweetest and kindest people I ever knew, suffers from severe schizophrenia. One night during an episode he ended up murdering his girlfriend and her grandparents who he lived with then called the police on himself. This is just a couple days after he was telling me how much he loves her and her grandparents and how grateful he is to them. Despite his severe mental illness he was sentenced to life without parole a couple of months ago. Truly heartbreaking how your whole life can change in the blink of an eye.
Man this is a very cool perspective on the other side of the justice system. I work in in the legal field and really do appreciate this opportunity to educate myself.
My brother just got transferred away from Calipat after serving 18 of his 19 year sentence there. They transferred him to a prison near Salton Sea since he will be deported once his time is competed. I remember he would tell me that they’d constantly be on lockdowns for weeks before finally being let out of his cell. Takes a tremendous amount of strength to get though this amount of mental and physical battle with those walls…
And I’m sure you’re serving a sentence with him as he’s your brother… how have you been doing ?
@@goodcatfilms4276 I’m not actually what kind of statement is that?
At this moment someone was going through hell
@@H3rrera_ I mean if my brother was in prison I would feel I was there with him until was free again I wouldn’t feel happy
@@H3rrera_ I think that persons comment was like about , maybe you suffering as well because your bro is gone .. he wasn’t saying in a negative way man he was checking on you to make sure u doing alright although you’ve technically lost someone close to u .. u know ?
Your such a good person Jon. So fortunate to be with you on this journey
Jon has to be the best listener on the planet.
John you are such a good man I seen you years ago in the airport when you were not this big of a start you were so cool polite to my mom and I’ll never forget how kind you were .. take care man we in the military love your show of the punisher 👍
Loved it at 24:50 when the man said two words: Responsibility, and Accountability.
Thank you for sharing this, these peoples stories can help those trapped in their own prisons even on the outside.
This raw emotion is captivating. Dope content!
You are important Jon Berenthal. The world needs more of you.
I have a family member doing life without parole and they’ve been inside for 36 years now and I think that the best thing to do is to terminate their relationship it’s hard to do that but if you don’t, it’s just an endless cycle of anger, guilt, remorse, hatred love whatever emotion you can think of it just goes around in circles I think if you end the relationship you’re better off because I think you get past it somehow but most people don’t do that
End their relationship with who? Dont make sense
I love that you are giving these men hope to hang on too.
Jon you’re out here doing the Lord’s work. Keep on shining light on people and situations that are often discarded. ✊🏼✌🏼❤️
That’s cool that you were able to get this interview. Was probably difficult to get everything approved for this on the CDCR side
Don't forget though, these people are not ANGELS.
God bless all these men who are part of the it really made me think and reflect on how close I was to getting life at one point in life and how blessed I am to be here and not in there I pray all of them never lose hope
Really good content, keep up the great work
These guys are so intelligent, and they might never offend again. Unfortunately actions have consequences however. Wish them the best. Freedom is priceless. Never take it for granted.
It's a trip because I was incarcerated with all of those men.real humble and respectful men.💯 I only did 5 years in Calipatria.but these men have been down more then 20 plus years.they are speaking real shit.seen it.been through it.but really have changed.i apologize to the families who have lost a loved one.i really do.but these men are really remorseful.i promise you.i could go on and on about alot of these men with life that I have met.if they were let out.i promise u they can reach out to so many people.change to many young lifes.give back to the community's we came from.and just expand.🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽💪🏽💪🏽 to the world.please hear these men out.i was incarcerated for 19 plus years.been out almost 5.we can make it.and make a change.
An this is true
Showing light into folks who have clearly thought about their lives and can articulate their path forwards is very meaningful....We all make mistakes and we can all change.... only if you want it. * absolute kudos to the administration for trying to make some change.*
“God’s their judge, not me”🙏🏾💯
I hope they show this video in SCHOOLS so our CHILDREN could see this and don’t make this mistake’s , I hope they get a second chance.
I knew that Jon was an insightful person just from listening to the podcast, but hearing him speak to Rogan on his podcast…I’ve never heard Joe be so quiet and listen. Keep up the good work my man
Never forget these guys are killers and some would have taken innocent people away from their own families.
They are suffering for a reason
Great program. I commend you on the work you are doing as well as the staff members and men who are connecting with each other and seeing the value in each other as human beings. Ase Ase Ase 0
The warden should let them host their own podcasts. real talk
Wow I’m a fan of your work in Hollywood!! But for you to give a voice to the forgotten means a lot because people make mistakes in life and everyone deserves a second chance!!!
Yeah, LWOP there ain't no future in that. When I first went to prison in California there were only nine prisons you could go to, at that time the ones you didn't want to go to were S.Q., Old Folsom, Tracy and Soledad central. I was 18 with a 16 year sentence. From Vacaville I went to Tracy for 3 years before I got in trouble there, points went to level 4 on the next thing smoking to Folsom. I always heard stories about Folsom and thought it was the coolest place to be until I got there. At Tracy dudes had dates, they were going home someday, at Folsom dudes were not ever getting out, if they weren't LWOP they had what we called a Buck Roger's date, this was in the 80s and I remember dudes showing me their E.P.R.D. of like 2040. And a lot of them do turn to dope, and once they start doing that the natural progression of a lifer is to live that life, drugs, violence and no hope. A lot of LWOPS have lost any hope.
@JON @JON, My cousin was incarcerated at the age of 17 back in 1991. He was one of the first wave of inmates to arrive at Calipatria State Prison when it opened. He spent a total of 30 years in prison. He is now a youth counselor for the Los Angeles Probation Department. Not only did he pay his debt to society but in now giving back to his community. He originally received a 7 to life sentence and was released in 2021. He would be a great interview for your Podcast!!! @JON
I'm not gonna lie I'm a grown man and this shit made me cry they truly are reformed and it's sad they'll never get a 2nd change but yet child molesters barely do time and get set free.....
So did jesus
Plz do more interviews like these I feel so sad for the inmates
This is all well and good but where is the Justice for the victims?? Justice and well being of families of victims. Psychopaths/Sociopaths are great at assimilation. They learn to tell parole,probation Etc.exactly what they wanna hear to get the things they want. So families have to feel unsafe to give these guys another chance. Pass.
Wow,. Great episode. I think it's excellent what they are doing there. I don't understand why more prisons aren't doing what they are doing. If these guys don't have something to look forward to, if they don't have these programs or these classes or something like that they have absolutely nothing to look forward to. And that's when drug abuse and violence really take over. These guys said this prison isn't really known for the violence anymore. Things have really changed. Great job. Thank you.
This should have started out with the crimes they committed. This really means nothing to me without knowing that.
This. They are a bunch of killers and rapists. And this video is trying to make us have sympathy for them.
You must be God to judge them lmfao 🤣
@@pistolpete8542it's not about being God and judging but to know out of curiosity