The Locked up Living Podcast: Surviving and thriving in prisons and other challenging environments

Helen Garlick; (Audio) In the Shadow of Secrets: Embracing Family Truths

In this conversation Helen Garlick discusses her book 'No Place to Lie' and the impact of family secrets. She shares her personal experience of discovering her brother's suicide and her mother's hidden sexuality after their deaths. The central themes of the book include family secrets, the power of communication, connection, and community, and the importance of love. Helen emphasizes the healing process and taking responsibility for our own healing. She also discusses the challenges of living with secrets and the impact they have on relationships and self-identity. Helen Garlick discusses the impact of family secrets and the power of writing to heal and transform.  Helen emphasizes the importance of talking about and sharing our stories to lift the shame and isolation associated with family secrets. She also discusses the therapeutic benefits of writing and the process of writing her memoir. Helen encourages others to write their own stories and offers writing retreats to help people explore and express their experiences. She concludes by recommending the healing power of nature and the importance of connecting with the wildness around us.
 
Helen Garlick is the author of ‘No Place to Lie’ about family secrets. Formerly a family lawyer, mediator and trainer, she is now continuing to working on her own writing including the power of owning your own story. She has run coastal writing retreats in North Devon and is a true believer in the healing power of blue whether the sea or other bodies of water. She is strongly in favour of busting the shame/silence around family secrets and has a youtube channel called Hello It’s Better to Talk.
She currently lives in Devon with her husband Tim Rice (not that one) and three dogs. Between them they have five adult children.
 
Twitter @helenpgarlick
Instagram @helenpgarlick
Facebook Helen Garlick

Ari Yampolsky; (Video) Caught in the Crossfire: The Perils of Exposing Corruption in the USA

In this detailed conversation, Ari Yampolsky discusses his rewarding work as a lawyer specializing in whistleblower cases in the USA. He finds great fulfillment in hearing clients' stories, gathering evidence, and presenting compelling cases to the government to initiate investigations. Yampolsky emphasizes the importance of self-care, noting that he balances the emotional weight of his work by engaging in exercise, spending time in nature, and being with his family. The dialogue also touches on the complexities of whistleblower regulations in the U.S. compared to the U.K., with Yampolsky highlighting the narrow yet powerful nature of U.S. laws. He explains that whistleblowers can significantly enhance regulatory efficiency by providing insider knowledge that helps target misconduct. However, he acknowledges the adversarial nature of legal processes and the potential for whistleblowers to face retaliation, which can lead to feelings of anger and hurt. Yampolsky plays a crucial role in guiding whistleblowers through the legal landscape, assessing the strength of their information against legal frameworks, and preparing their cases for regulators. He also discusses the challenges whistleblowers face, including the fear of repercussions and the emotional toll of coming forward. Ultimately, Yampolsky's work is centered on advocating for those who expose wrongdoing while navigating the intricate dynamics of law and human experience.
Ari Yampolsky is a lawyer in the United States of America. He is a partner at Whistleblower Partners. He's represented Whistleblowers under every major whistleblower reward law for a decade. In his False Claims Act practice, Ari has successfully represented claimants in lawsuits related to healthcare fraud, procurement fraud and customs fraud. These include groundbreaking state false claims act lawsuits in which Ari represented a whistleblower and dozens of government entities against four wireless carriers. And this resulted in a $138 million dollar settlement and a 40 % share for his whistleblower client. Ari also represents whistleblowers with claims under every reward program run by a federal agency. Ari has helped secure millions of dollars in awards for financial fraud whistleblowers under the SEC's program. Recently he and his colleagues obtained a $24 .3 million reward for a former Hyundai Safety Engineer at the first ever whistleblower award made by the Federal Auto Safety Regulator.
https://whistleblower.law/ari-yampolsky
https://whistleblower.law/
 

Ari Yampolsky; (Audio) Caught in the Crossfire: The Perils of Exposing Corruption in the USA

In this detailed conversation, Ari Yampolsky discusses his rewarding work as a lawyer specializing in whistleblower cases in the USA. He finds great fulfillment in hearing clients' stories, gathering evidence, and presenting compelling cases to the government to initiate investigations. Yampolsky emphasizes the importance of self-care, noting that he balances the emotional weight of his work by engaging in exercise, spending time in nature, and being with his family. The dialogue also touches on the complexities of whistleblower regulations in the U.S. compared to the U.K., with Yampolsky highlighting the narrow yet powerful nature of U.S. laws. He explains that whistleblowers can significantly enhance regulatory efficiency by providing insider knowledge that helps target misconduct. However, he acknowledges the adversarial nature of legal processes and the potential for whistleblowers to face retaliation, which can lead to feelings of anger and hurt. Yampolsky plays a crucial role in guiding whistleblowers through the legal landscape, assessing the strength of their information against legal frameworks, and preparing their cases for regulators. He also discusses the challenges whistleblowers face, including the fear of repercussions and the emotional toll of coming forward. Ultimately, Yampolsky's work is centered on advocating for those who expose wrongdoing while navigating the intricate dynamics of law and human experience.
Ari Yampolsky is a lawyer in the United States of America. He is a partner at Whistleblower Partners. He's represented Whistleblowers under every major whistleblower reward law for a decade. In his False Claims Act practice, Ari has successfully represented claimants in lawsuits related to healthcare fraud, procurement fraud and customs fraud. These include groundbreaking state false claims act lawsuits in which Ari represented a whistleblower and dozens of government entities against four wireless carriers. And this resulted in a $138 million dollar settlement and a 40 % share for his whistleblower client. Ari also represents whistleblowers with claims under every reward program run by a federal agency. Ari has helped secure millions of dollars in awards for financial fraud whistleblowers under the SEC's program. Recently he and his colleagues obtained a $24 .3 million reward for a former Hyundai Safety Engineer at the first ever whistleblower award made by the Federal Auto Safety Regulator.
https://whistleblower.law/ari-yampolsky
https://whistleblower.law/
 

Catherine Knibbs (Video) Behind the Screen: The Hidden Risks of Online Engagement for Young Minds

Cath is an author, clinician with children and adults, supervisor, researcher, educator, speaker and mum with a background in the Armed Forces Engineering and Optronics, IT, Gaming and Psychology alongside Functional Health and her other passion of Neuroscience. She is a polymath and pattern recognition nerd.
New book October 2024; https://www.routledge.com/Managing-Your-Gaming-and-Social-Media-Habits-From-Science-to-Solutions/Knibbs/p/book/9781032607597?srsltid=AfmBOorerHCkQT7xJXx1IatOE8aWTU2c6-Q3fxfu9QSuEfocbaBKW2pa
Summary
Catherine Knibbs, a psychotherapist and expert in cyber trauma, discusses her journey into psychotherapy and her expertise in online harm. She shares how her upbringing in a military family and exposure to stories from Wakefield Prison influenced her interest in understanding why people engage in harmful behaviors. Catherine explains how her background in engineering and computing led her to become knowledgeable about cyber trauma and online harm. She highlights the prevalence of cyber criminals and the alarming rates of sextortion and grooming of children online. Catherine also discusses the impact of technology on attachment patterns in children and the need for education and awareness to protect children online. The conversation explores the impact of technology on mental health, particularly in relation to boredom, attention, and online harms. It discusses the need for digital literacy and responsible parenting, rather than a complete ban on smartphones. The conversation also highlights the lack of support for professionals working in the field of online harm. The guest emphasizes the importance of self-care and personal well-being in dealing with the challenges of technology.
Website; https://www.childrenandtech.co.uk/
 
Takeaways
Catherine's upbringing in a military family and exposure to stories from Wakefield Prison sparked her interest in understanding harmful behaviors.
Her background in engineering and computing led her to become knowledgeable about cyber trauma and online harm.
There is a prevalence of cyber criminals who engage in sextortion and grooming of children online.
Technology has a significant impact on attachment patterns in children, and there is a need for education and awareness to protect children online. Technology can be both a tool and a medium, and its impact on mental health is complex.
Boredom and attention are affected by technology, but it's not just about eliminating boredom; it's about recognizing internal processes.
Banning smartphones is not the solution; digital literacy and responsible parenting are crucial.
Professionals working in the field of online harm need more support and resources.
Self-care and personal well-being are essential in navigating the challenges of technology.

Catherine Knibbs (Audio) Behind the Screen: The Hidden Risks of Online Engagement for Young Minds

Cath is an author, clinician with children and adults, supervisor, researcher, educator, speaker and mum with a background in the Armed Forces Engineering and Optronics, IT, Gaming and Psychology alongside Functional Health and her other passion of Neuroscience. She is a polymath and pattern recognition nerd.
New book out October 2024
https://www.routledge.com/Managing-Your-Gaming-and-Social-Media-Habits-From-Science-to-Solutions/Knibbs/p/book/9781032607597?srsltid=AfmBOorerHCkQT7xJXx1IatOE8aWTU2c6-Q3fxfu9QSuEfocbaBKW2pa
 
Summary
Catherine Knibbs, a psychotherapist and expert in cyber trauma, discusses her journey into psychotherapy and her expertise in online harm. She shares how her upbringing in a military family and exposure to stories from Wakefield Prison influenced her interest in understanding why people engage in harmful behaviors. Catherine explains how her background in engineering and computing led her to become knowledgeable about cyber trauma and online harm. She highlights the prevalence of cyber criminals and the alarming rates of sextortion and grooming of children online. Catherine also discusses the impact of technology on attachment patterns in children and the need for education and awareness to protect children online. The conversation explores the impact of technology on mental health, particularly in relation to boredom, attention, and online harms. It discusses the need for digital literacy and responsible parenting, rather than a complete ban on smartphones. The conversation also highlights the lack of support for professionals working in the field of online harm. The guest emphasizes the importance of self-care and personal well-being in dealing with the challenges of technology.
Website; https://www.childrenandtech.co.uk/
 
Takeaways
Catherine's upbringing in a military family and exposure to stories from Wakefield Prison sparked her interest in understanding harmful behaviors.
Her background in engineering and computing led her to become knowledgeable about cyber trauma and online harm.
There is a prevalence of cyber criminals who engage in sextortion and grooming of children online.
Technology has a significant impact on attachment patterns in children, and there is a need for education and awareness to protect children online. Technology can be both a tool and a medium, and its impact on mental health is complex.
Boredom and attention are affected by technology, but it's not just about eliminating boredom; it's about recognizing internal processes.
Banning smartphones is not the solution; digital literacy and responsible parenting are crucial.
Professionals working in the field of online harm need more support and resources.
Self-care and personal well-being are essential in navigating the challenges of technology.

Alex South (Video); Moral Injury: The Hidden Cost of Working in Prisons

Summary
In this conversation, Alex South, a former prison officer with nearly a decade of experience, shares her journey through the prison system, discussing the challenges, culture, and dynamics of working in prisons. She reflects on her training, the impact of staffing shortages, and the mental health challenges faced by both staff and inmates. She also speaks of the deep bonds of trust which develop with colleagues and, in the right circumstances, with some convicted people. Alex also highlights the changes in prison culture over the years and the importance of advocating for better conditions and support for prison officers. Her insights are drawn from personal experiences and her memoir, 'Behind these Doors', which aims to shed light on the realities of prison life and the potential for change.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Behind-these-Doors-Strength-Suffering/dp/1399707558
Takeaways
Alex South worked as a prison officer for almost 10 years.
The prison environment is unique and requires strong interpersonal skills.
Training for prison officers is often insufficient for real-life challenges.
Prison culture varies significantly based on demographics and management.
Staff welfare is crucial for effective prison management.
The role of a prison officer has changed dramatically over the years.
Mental health support for staff is often lacking in the prison system.
International examples show better staff welfare practices in prisons.
Alex's decision to leave was influenced by burnout and stress.
Writing and advocacy are important for raising awareness about prison issues.

Alex South (Audio); Moral Injury: The Hidden Cost of Working in Prisons

Summary
In this conversation, Alex South, a former prison officer with nearly a decade of experience, shares her journey through the prison system, discussing the challenges, culture, and dynamics of working in prisons. She reflects on her training, the impact of staffing shortages, and the mental health challenges faced by both staff and inmates. She also speaks of the deep bonds of trust which develop with colleagues and, in the right circumstances, with some convicted people. Alex also highlights the changes in prison culture over the years and the importance of advocating for better conditions and support for prison officers. Her insights are drawn from personal experiences and her memoir, 'Behind these Doors', which aims to shed light on the realities of prison life and the potential for change.
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Behind-these-Doors-Strength-Suffering/dp/1399707558
Takeaways
Alex South worked as a prison officer for almost 10 years.
The prison environment is unique and requires strong interpersonal skills.
Training for prison officers is often insufficient for real-life challenges.
Prison culture varies significantly based on demographics and management.
Staff welfare is crucial for effective prison management.
The role of a prison officer has changed dramatically over the years.
Mental health support for staff is often lacking in the prison system.
International examples show better staff welfare practices in prisons.
Alex's decision to leave was influenced by burnout and stress.
Writing and advocacy are important for raising awareness about prison issues.

David Hencke (video) Unmasking Deception: David's Battle for Transparency

David Hencke, is a multi award winning investigative journalist known for his hard-hitting pieces that champion truth and expose the bad practices of organizations, industries, and governments. In this engaging discussion, David shares his fascinating experiences and insights into the world of journalism, shedding light on the impact of social media and the challenges faced by the profession.
From the very beginning, David's journey into journalism was unconventional. He discovered his passion for reporting while studying at Warwick University, where he became the editor of a student newspaper. This early exposure to the power of journalism and its ability to challenge authority set the stage for his future endeavors.
Throughout his 50+ year career, David has consistently bumped up against authority, unearthing hidden truths and holding those in power accountable. He recounts instances where he faced backlash for his investigative work, such as when he exposed a history professor's contradictory behavior or when he reported on a political candidate's controversial speech. These experiences not only shaped his determination to uncover the truth but also highlighted the deviousness of the organizations he dealt with.
Read his Blog https://davidhencke.com/

David Hencke (audio) Unmasking Deception: Investegative Journalist David Hencke's Battle for Transparency

David Hencke, is an award winning investigative journalist known for his hard-hitting pieces that champion truth and expose the bad practices of organizations, industries, and governments. In this engaging discussion, David shares his fascinating experiences and insights into the world of journalism, shedding light on the impact of social media and the challenges faced by the profession.
 
From the very beginning, David's journey into journalism was unconventional. He discovered his passion for reporting while studying at Warwick University, where he became the editor of a student newspaper. This early exposure to the power of journalism and its ability to challenge authority set the stage for his future endeavors.
Throughout his 50+ year career, David has consistently bumped up against authority, unearthing hidden truths and holding those in power accountable. He recounts instances where he faced backlash for his investigative work, such as when he exposed a history professor's contradictory behavior or when he reported on a political candidate's controversial speech. These experiences not only shaped his determination to uncover the truth but also highlighted the deviousness of the organizations he dealt with.
Read his Blog https://davidhencke.com/

Taslim Tharani (audio) Navigating Racism and Emotional Regulation in Boarding School

Taslim Tharani was born in the UK as was her older sister. Her parents were both born in Tanzania to parents whose background was in India. Taslim shares her experiences of being in a thrice migrant family. She talks about attending boarding school and the impact it had on her identity and emotional well-being. She discusses the decision to attend boarding school, the influence of racism, the emotional challenges, and the sense of homelessness. The conversation delves into the emotional impact of the boarding school experience and the struggle to regulate emotions in a boarding school environment. Taslim shares her experiences of boarding school, the impact on her sense of home, identity, and relationships, and the journey of healing and self-discovery. She reflects on the influence of her experiences on her career as an organizational psychologist.

Taslim Tharani (Video) Navigating Racism and Emotional Regulation in Boarding School

Taslim Tharani was born in the UK as was her older sister. Her parents were both born in Tanzania to parents whose background was in India. Taslim shares her experiences of being in a thrice migrant family Taslim talks about attending boarding school and the impact it had on her identity and emotional well-being. She discusses the decision to attend boarding school, the influence of racism, the emotional challenges, and the sense of homelessness. The conversation delves into the emotional impact of the boarding school experience and the struggle to regulate emotions in a boarding school environment. Taslim shares her experiences of boarding school, the impact on her sense of home, identity, and relationships, and the journey of healing and self-discovery. She reflects on the influence of her experiences on her career as an organizational psychologist.

Michael Allison (Video) Playful Connections: How Polyvagal Theory Enhances Play and Social Engagement

In this conversation David and Naomi meet with Michael Allison . Michaels discusses his work as a Polyvagal performance consultant and the founder of the Playzone. He explains that his journey into Polyvagal theory began when he owned a fitness facility and wellness center, where he noticed the positive impact of creating a safe and connected community for his clients. This led him to study behavior science and eventually discover the power of Polyvagal theory in understanding and optimizing human physiology.
Polyvagal theory, developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, focuses on the physiological state of individuals and how it affects their behavior and interactions. It emphasizes the importance of feeling safe and connected in order to tap into one's highest potential and align with their values. Michael explains that our nervous system is constantly assessing whether we can trust others and feel safe enough to be ourselves. Understanding the shifts in our physiology can help us navigate difficult interactions and have conversations with greater alignment and authenticity.
The Playzone course, based on Michael's initial manuscript, is designed for coaches, consultants, business leaders, psychologists, and professionals in various fields who want to optimize their physiology to support higher performance and resilience. The course delves into the science behind Polyvagal theory and explores different tools and strategies to create a container of safety and connection. Michael shares case studies and real-life examples to help participants understand and apply the concepts in their own lives and work.
https://theplayzone.com/
Michael also discusses his collaboration with the Polyvagal Institute and his efforts to bring Polyvagal theory to a wider audience. He aims to make the theory accessible and applicable, without requiring a deep understanding of the science behind it. 
Overall, this podcast conversation highlights the significance of Polyvagal theory in understanding human behavior and optimizing our physiology for greater well-being and success. It emphasizes the importance of creating a sense of safety and connection in order to thrive in various aspects of life.
 
https://www.polyvagalinstitute.org/items/the-play-zone%3A-a-neurophysiological-approach-to-our-highest-performance
 
Keywords
Polyvagal theory, physiology, relationships, safety, trust, connection, fitness, wellness, sports, play, autonomic flexibility, pressure, competition, culture, awareness, understanding
 
Takeaways
Polyvagal theory provides a framework for understanding the impact of physiology on human experience and behavior.
Creating a sense of safety, trust, and connection is essential for fostering healthy relationships and personal growth.
The concept of play is foundational in building relationships and promoting autonomic flexibility.
Addressing pressure and competition in modern culture is crucial for promoting awareness and understanding of Polyvagal theory.

Michael Allison (Audio) Playful Connections: How Polyvagal Theory Enhances Play and Social Engagement

In this conversation David and Naomi meet with Michael Allison . Michaels discusses his work as a Polyvagal performance consultant and the founder of the Playzone. He explains that his journey into Polyvagal theory began when he owned a fitness facility and wellness center, where he noticed the positive impact of creating a safe and connected community for his clients. This led him to study behavior science and eventually discover the power of Polyvagal theory in understanding and optimizing human physiology.
Polyvagal theory, developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, focuses on the physiological state of individuals and how it affects their behavior and interactions. It emphasizes the importance of feeling safe and connected in order to tap into one's highest potential and align with their values. Michael explains that our nervous system is constantly assessing whether we can trust others and feel safe enough to be ourselves. Understanding the shifts in our physiology can help us navigate difficult interactions and have conversations with greater alignment and authenticity.
The Playzone course, based on Michael's initial manuscript, is designed for coaches, consultants, business leaders, psychologists, and professionals in various fields who want to optimize their physiology to support higher performance and resilience. The course delves into the science behind Polyvagal theory and explores different tools and strategies to create a container of safety and connection. Michael shares case studies and real-life examples to help participants understand and apply the concepts in their own lives and work.
https://theplayzone.com/
Michael also discusses his collaboration with the Polyvagal Institute and his efforts to bring Polyvagal theory to a wider audience. He aims to make the theory accessible and applicable, without requiring a deep understanding of the science behind it. 
Overall, this podcast conversation highlights the significance of Polyvagal theory in understanding human behavior and optimizing our physiology for greater well-being and success. It emphasizes the importance of creating a sense of safety and connection in order to thrive in various aspects of life.
 
https://www.polyvagalinstitute.org/items/the-play-zone%3A-a-neurophysiological-approach-to-our-highest-performance
 
Keywords
Polyvagal theory, physiology, relationships, safety, trust, connection, fitness, wellness, sports, play, autonomic flexibility, pressure, competition, culture, awareness, understanding
 
Takeaways
Polyvagal theory provides a framework for understanding the impact of physiology on human experience and behavior.
Creating a sense of safety, trust, and connection is essential for fostering healthy relationships and personal growth.
The concept of play is foundational in building relationships and promoting autonomic flexibility.
Addressing pressure and competition in modern culture is crucial for promoting awareness and understanding of Polyvagal theory.

Caitriona Lyons knows horses! (Video) Caitriona is a psychotherapist who practices Equine Therapy (with people)

In this episode, David and Naomi meet Caitriona Lyons, a mental health specialist in equine assisted psychotherapy. Caitriona explains that horse-assisted therapy is a form of therapy where horses are used to support people in their mental health journey. The therapy is conducted on the ground, and no horse riding experience is needed. The horses help people to get to know themselves better and provide a sense of calm and relaxation. Katrina shares stories of how horses have helped individuals, including children with anger issues and adults in addiction recovery. She also discusses the availability of horse-assisted therapy and recommends turning off the TV and spending time in nature as ways to promote well-being.
https://kerryequinetherapiesandcounselling.ie/
https://www.eagala.org/
http://horsesconnect.com/
https://www.equineassistedpsychotherapyireland.com/empty-page

Caitriona Lyons; knows horses! (AUDIO) Caitriona is a psychotherapist who practices Equine Therapy (with people)

In this episode, David and Naomi meet Caitriona Lyons, a mental health specialist in equine assisted psychotherapy. Caitriona explains that horse-assisted therapy is a form of therapy where horses are used to support people in their mental health journey. The therapy is conducted on the ground, and no horse riding experience is needed. The horses help people to get to know themselves better and provide a sense of calm and relaxation. Katrina shares stories of how horses have helped individuals, including children with anger issues and adults in addiction recovery. She also discusses the availability of horse-assisted therapy and recommends turning off the TV and spending time in nature as ways to promote well-being.
https://kerryequinetherapiesandcounselling.ie/
https://www.eagala.org/
http://horsesconnect.com/
https://www.equineassistedpsychotherapyireland.com/empty-page

Martyn Pitman (video) former consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, describes the catastrophic risks of whistleblowing.

Martyn Pittman, was a popular and successful consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist. He tells us his story of being dismissed from his dream job after raising concerns about patient safety and management issues. He describes the hostile takeover of his hospital by a neighboring trust, (a common but little investigated event) the imposition of a midwifery-led normalisation agenda, and the resistance to evidence-based care. Martyn's whistleblowing led to a formal investigation and a campaign to discredit him, including spreading false rumors. He highlights the isolation and gaslighting he experienced throughout the process. Martyn Pitman shares his experience of being a whistleblower in the NHS and the devastating impact it had on his career and personal life. He discusses the unfair treatment he faced from the trust, the lengthy investigation process, and the lack of support from the legal system. Martyn emphasizes the importance of self-care and seeking support during such challenging times. He also highlights the need for accountability and support for whistleblowers in the healthcare system.
https://www.hampshirechronicle.co.uk/news/23816023.martyn-pitman-supporters-force-start-tribunal/
 
https://www.hampshirechronicle.co.uk/news/23950068.martyn-pitman-pulls-unfair-dismissal-case-hhft/

Martyn Pitman, (audio) former consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist, describes the catastrophic risks of whistleblowing.

Martyn Pittman, was a popular and successful consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist. He tells us his story of being dismissed from his dream job after raising concerns about patient safety and management issues. He describes the hostile takeover of his hospital by a neighboring trust, (a common but little investigated event) the imposition of a midwifery-led normalisation agenda, and the resistance to evidence-based care. Martyn's whistleblowing led to a formal investigation and a campaign to discredit him, including spreading false rumors. He highlights the isolation and gaslighting he experienced throughout the process. Martyn Pitman shares his experience of being a whistleblower in the NHS and the devastating impact it had on his career and personal life. He discusses the unfair treatment he faced from the trust, the lengthy investigation process, and the lack of support from the legal system. Martyn emphasizes the importance of self-care and seeking support during such challenging times. He also highlights the need for accountability and support for whistleblowers in the healthcare system.

Russell Webster. (video) From Probation Officer to Consultant: A Journey Making Academic Work Accessible

Russell Webster was born and bred in Coventry and with a degree in modern languages behind him, Russell spent ten years working in the social care field. He qualified as a probation officer in 1987 and worked with offenders in North and East London. He also worked for a range of voluntary sector organisations in both this country and the USA. Russell developed his consultancy skills through work with two national voluntary organisations before going freelance in 1996. Russell has been a full-time researcher/consultant ever since. Although the work always varies, it mainly comprises research for various government departments, needs assessments for local commissioners and evaluation work with community organisations.
He is perhaps best known for this blog which keeps readers up to date with the latest research, policy and practice in the drugs & crime sectors.
https://www.russellwebster.com/blog/
Russell is a former probation officer turned consultant. He talks about his journey and experiences in the criminal justice system. He discusses how he got into probation work, the challenges he faced, and why he eventually left the profession. Russell also talks about his transition to freelance work and the advantages and disadvantages of being self-employed. He emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and understanding one's strengths and weaknesses. Russell's expertise in communication and networking has made him a respected figure in the criminal justice field. Russell Webster, a freelance criminal justice consultant, shares his journey and experiences in the field. He discusses how he got started in research and evaluation, highlighting the importance of working with others who have different skill sets. He also talks about his passion for evaluating positive projects, such as a charity that teaches prisoners how to stitch, and the satisfaction he finds in making a difference. Russell emphasizes the need for accessibility in academic work and the value of networking and partnerships. He concludes with practical advice for those considering freelance consulting.
keywordsRussell Webster, probation officer, criminal justice system, freelance work, self-reflection, communication, networking, freelance consulting, criminal justice, research, evaluation, positive projects, accessibility, networking, partnerships
takeaways
Russell Webster's passion for making a difference and his interest in people led him to become a probation officer.
Although he enjoyed the job, Russell realized that he wasn't particularly skilled at helping people make sense of their lives and create effective plans for the future.
He made the decision to leave the profession and pursue freelance work, which allowed him more flexibility and the ability to be there for his family during challenging times.
Russell's expertise in communication and networking has made him a respected figure in the criminal justice field, despite not considering himself an influencer. Working with others who have different skill sets can enhance your own abilities and lead to better outcomes.
Evaluating positive projects can be more satisfying and impactful.
Making academic work accessible to a wider audience is important for increasing its reach and impact.
Networking and building partnerships can open up new opportunities and collaborations.
Maintaining a work-life balance and setting boundaries is crucial for personal well-being as a freelancer.

Russell Webster. (audio) From Probation Officer to Consultant: A Journey Making Academic Work Accessible

Russell Webster was born and bred in Coventry and with a degree in modern languages behind him, Russell spent ten years working in the social care field. He qualified as a probation officer in 1987 and worked with offenders in North and East London. He also worked for a range of voluntary sector organisations in both this country and the USA. Russell developed his consultancy skills through work with two national voluntary organisations before going freelance in 1996. Russell has been a full-time researcher/consultant ever since. Although the work always varies, it mainly comprises research for various government departments, needs assessments for local commissioners and evaluation work with community organisations.
He is perhaps best known for this blog which keeps readers up to date with the latest research, policy and practice in the drugs & crime sectors.
https://www.russellwebster.com/blog/
Russell is a former probation officer turned consultant. Talks about his journey and experiences in the criminal justice system. He discusses how he got into probation work, the challenges he faced, and why he eventually left the profession. Russell also talks about his transition to freelance work and the advantages and disadvantages of being self-employed. He emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and understanding one's strengths and weaknesses. Russell's expertise in communication and networking has made him a respected figure in the criminal justice field. Russell Webster, a freelance criminal justice consultant, shares his journey and experiences in the field. He discusses how he got started in research and evaluation, highlighting the importance of working with others who have different skill sets. He also talks about his passion for evaluating positive projects, such as a charity that teaches prisoners how to stitch, and the satisfaction he finds in making a difference. Russell emphasizes the need for accessibility in academic work and the value of networking and partnerships. He concludes with practical advice for those considering freelance consulting.
keywordsRussell Webster, probation officer, criminal justice system, freelance work, self-reflection, communication, networking, freelance consulting, criminal justice, research, evaluation, positive projects, accessibility, networking, partnerships
takeaways
Russell Webster's passion for making a difference and his interest in people led him to become a probation officer.
Although he enjoyed the job, Russell realized that he wasn't particularly skilled at helping people make sense of their lives and create effective plans for the future.
He made the decision to leave the profession and pursue freelance work, which allowed him more flexibility and the ability to be there for his family during challenging times.
Russell's expertise in communication and networking has made him a respected figure in the criminal justice field, despite not considering himself an influencer. Working with others who have different skill sets can enhance your own abilities and lead to better outcomes.
Evaluating positive projects can be more satisfying and impactful.
Making academic work accessible to a wider audience is important for increasing its reach and impact.
Networking and building partnerships can open up new opportunities and collaborations.
Maintaining a work-life balance and setting boundaries is crucial for personal well-being as a freelancer.

Patrick Reid. (Video) Taking and managing risk in career development

Patrick Reid, a currency expert and trader, shares his journey of making a late career change and finding fulfillment in trading. He emphasizes the importance of being curious, taking risks, and not being afraid of failure. Patrick discusses the difference between trading and gambling, the presence of scammers in the industry, and the need for individuals to do their due diligence. He also shares tips for managing the high levels of risk and uncertainty in trading, including having a structured routine, talking to friends, and writing down tasks and goals. Everything Patrick says can be appied in other areas of life.
takeaways
Late career changes are possible and can lead to fulfillment and success.
 
Being curious and willing to take risks are important qualities for making a career change.
 
It's crucial to do your due diligence and be aware of scammers in the trading industry.
 
Managing risk and uncertainty in trading requires a structured routine, a support network, and effective risk management strategies.
 
Patrick is a currency expert with over 15 years experience in trading FX and propriety desks. He has accepted a role as Visiting Lecturer at The University of Cambridge and is Co-Founder of The Adamis Principle which mentors traders at all levels.
During his career he has mentored clients from Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan and Credit Suisse. His passion is nurturing and finding talent within young people has led him to partner with The Youth Group and Jack Parsons, The UK’s chief youth officer. Adamis Principle’s outreach to less fortunate young people is a top priority for him.
Patrick has regular meetings with FX traders at The Bank of England for research and academic discussions only.
https://www.adamisprinciple.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-reid-5b51bb21/?originalSubdomain=uk