Sentenced to life in prison as a teenager, Kyle Hedquist defied the odds. Hear his incredible journey from a life sentence to freedom and how he’s now driving change in state policy. In 2022, Governor Brown commuted his sentence, and he was released just 20 days later. Now, nearly two years on, Kyle is driving change in state policy with incredible passion. Tune in to hear his inspiring story of resilience, growth, and advocacy. Kyle’s
WELCOME TO SEASON 4 of The Hidden Sentence Podcast.
The purpose of this podcast and it's blog is to help educate and empower those who have or had a loved one in prison. Did you know that the chances are very high that someone you know has had a loved one incarcerated? Or maybe you are part of the 50% of the US population* who has or had a loved one in the carceral system? Indirectly we are all affected, and if you have a loved one in prison you are probably doing the time even though you committed no crime. This is the Hidden Sentence. The sentence does not end once your loved one is released either. Depending on the type of release he or she may still need to deal with probation or parole which carries its own set of regulations. So the prison issue continues for an indeterminable about of time. Prison: The Hidden Sentence is about those friends and family members on the outside. We are raising awareness one story at a time.
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*https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/nearly-half-americans-have-close-family-member-who-has-been-incarcerated-180971645/
Episode Blogs
Edgar Barens’ Academy Award-nominated documentary, “Prison Terminal”, has been screened in hundreds of prisons, colleges, universities, conferences, and community hospice centers. His unique talent lies in transforming large-scale issues into personal, deeply humane stories. In this session, we’ll explore his mission to document a groundbreaking, peer-caretaker-run hospice program at the Iowa State Penitentiary. Hear how Edgar captures the dignity and compassion within prison walls, offering hope for reform in a system that too often
Destinee and Mario Redding’s remarkable love story endured and flourished through the challenges of Mario’s 17-year incarceration. In this powerful episode, they share their journey of love, incarceration, resilience, and the strength to overcome hardships that seemed insurmountable. Hear firsthand how they navigated the emotional and practical struggles of prison life while maintaining a deep connection and planning for a bright future together. If you’re seeking inspiration, hope, or a testament to unwavering dedication, Destinee
Leslie Ann Turner is a powerful voice in the fight for change, working tirelessly to dismantle mass incarceration and uplift marginalized communities. As a devoted mother, dynamic community organizer, and co-director of the Mass Liberation Project in Nevada, Leslie is on the frontlines advocating for those most impacted by over-policing and the criminal justice system. In this episode, she dives deep into critical issues like decriminalizing poverty, divesting from the carceral system, and building
In this episode, we delve into the transformative work of Kate Feigen, a dedicated leader at the Prison Monastery, where she helps incarcerated individuals cultivate more intentional and meaningful lives. Through their program, The Art of Soulmaking, Kate and her team guide those behind bars on a journey of self-discovery, spiritual growth, and personal liberation. By fostering an environment of mindfulness and purpose, The Art of Soulmaking empowers individuals to break free from cycles
In this episode, we welcome Ron and Catherine Tijerina, the visionary founders of The RIDGE Project. As co-executive directors, they lead a national nonprofit organization and the international TYRO curricula, both dedicated to supporting families affected by incarceration. The Ridge Project offers a range of services, including direct support, family day events, youth programs, case management, and professional development. Ron and Catherine, along with Brandon Tijerina, are also the authors of the inspiring book
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