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

Sybil Taunton on the value of diverse organisations and her experiences in the US military. Video

Sybil Taunton, is the Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). She is an advocate for equality, diversity, and inclusion. Today she shares her pxperiences and insights on topics such as the impact of the Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy in the Uersonal eS military, the emotional toll of keeping secrets, the continuous war in America, and the lack of diversity in leadership. She also discusses her work with the Modern Military Association of America and the challenges faced by gay prison officers. Throughout the conversation, Sybil emphasizes the importance of representation, empathy, and inclusive leadership in creating a more equitable society. In this conversation, Sybil Taunton discusses the importance of setting boundaries and recognizing personal comfort levels when discussing sensitive topics such as sexual orientation, neurodivergence, and mental health. She emphasizes the need for EDI practitioners to understand their own boundaries while still being relatable and supportive to others. Additionally, Sybil shares advice on maintaining emotional safety and nourishment, including the importance of prioritization and managing expectations to avoid burnout.
Takeaways
The Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy had a significant emotional impact on LGBTQ+ service members, causing fear, anxiety, and a lack of psychological safety.
Continuous war in America has shaped the country's culture and has had a significant impact on the working class, diverting resources away from domestic issues.
Diversity in leadership is crucial for creating inclusive and innovative organizations, as it brings a variety of perspectives and experiences to the table.
The emotional challenges of being a visible minority, such as a gay prison officer, can include fear, lack of privacy, and the need to navigate stereotypes and assumptions.
Representation and visibility are essential for marginalized groups, as they provide role models and create a sense of belonging and opportunity. Setting boundaries is crucial when discussing personal and sensitive topics.
Recognizing personal comfort levels and boundaries helps maintain emotional safety.
Prioritization and managing expectations are key to avoiding burnout.
EDI practitioners should strive to be relatable and supportive while still protecting their ownwellbeing.

Sybil Taunton on the value of diverse organisations and her experiences in the US military Audio.

Sybil Taunton, is the Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). She is an advocate for equality, diversity, and inclusion. Today she shares her pxperiences and insights on topics such as the impact of the Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy in the Uersonal eS military, the emotional toll of keeping secrets, the continuous war in America, and the lack of diversity in leadership. She also discusses her work with the Modern Military Association of America and the challenges faced by gay prison officers. Throughout the conversation, Sybil emphasizes the importance of representation, empathy, and inclusive leadership in creating a more equitable society. In this conversation, Sybil Taunton discusses the importance of setting boundaries and recognizing personal comfort levels when discussing sensitive topics such as sexual orientation, neurodivergence, and mental health. She emphasizes the need for EDI practitioners to understand their own boundaries while still being relatable and supportive to others. Additionally, Sybil shares advice on maintaining emotional safety and nourishment, including the importance of prioritization and managing expectations to avoid burnout.
Takeaways
The Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy had a significant emotional impact on LGBTQ+ service members, causing fear, anxiety, and a lack of psychological safety.
Continuous war in America has shaped the country's culture and has had a significant impact on the working class, diverting resources away from domestic issues.
Diversity in leadership is crucial for creating inclusive and innovative organizations, as it brings a variety of perspectives and experiences to the table.
The emotional challenges of being a visible minority, such as a gay prison officer, can include fear, lack of privacy, and the need to navigate stereotypes and assumptions.
Representation and visibility are essential for marginalized groups, as they provide role models and create a sense of belonging and opportunity. Setting boundaries is crucial when discussing personal and sensitive topics.
Recognizing personal comfort levels and boundaries helps maintain emotional safety.
Prioritization and managing expectations are key to avoiding burnout.
EDI practitioners should strive to be relatable and supportive while still protecting their ownwellbeing.

Stuart Wade; Renewing Minds: Exploring the Possibilities of Hypnotherapy. Audio version

In this episode of the Locked Up Living podcast, Naomi Murphy and David Jones host Stuart Wade, a renowned sportsman turned clinical hypnotherapist. Wade, a martial arts champion inducted into the UK Martial Arts Hall of Fame, discusses his transition into hypnotherapy. He dispels common misconceptions about hypnotherapy and explains its therapeutic benefits for various issues including depression, phobias, and physical ailments. Wade also discusses techniques for personal improvement and shares a simple yet impactful color breathing technique for better mental health. From sports performance to emotional well-being and life improvement, the discussion dives deep into the impact that our mind and attitude can have in shaping our lives.
Takeaways
Hypnotherapy is a form of one-to-one therapy that can help with psychological, emotional, and physical issues.
Anyone can be hypnotized to some extent, but the level of susceptibility varies.
The Havening technique combines elements of hypnosis, EMDR, visualization, and physical touch to help alleviate negative emotions and rewire the brain.
NLP was derived from hypnosis and focuses on using language to overcome issues in behavior, thoughts, and feelings.
Hypnotherapy can be used to re-sculpt identity and help individuals achieve their goals.
Hypnotherapy has clinical applications for fears, phobias, depression, and even physical issues.
Techniques like color breathing and positive self-talk can be used to improve well-being.

Stuart Wade; Releasing Minds: Exploring the Possibilities of Hypnotherapy Video version

In this episode of the Locked Up Living podcast, Naomi Murphy and David Jones host Stuart Wade, a renowned sportsman turned clinical hypnotherapist. Wade, a martial arts champion inducted into the UK Martial Arts Hall of Fame, discusses his transition into hypnotherapy. He dispels common misconceptions about hypnotherapy and explains its therapeutic benefits for various issues including depression, phobias, and physical ailments. Wade also discusses techniques for personal improvement and shares a simple yet impactful color breathing technique for better mental health. From sports performance to emotional well-being and life improvement, the discussion dives deep into the impact that our mind and attitude can have in shaping our lives.
Takeaways
Hypnotherapy is a form of one-to-one therapy that can help with psychological, emotional, and physical issues.
Anyone can be hypnotized to some extent, but the level of susceptibility varies.
The Havening technique combines elements of hypnosis, EMDR, visualization, and physical touch to help alleviate negative emotions and rewire the brain.
NLP was derived from hypnosis and focuses on using language to overcome issues in behavior, thoughts, and feelings.
Hypnotherapy can be used to re-sculpt identity and help individuals achieve their goals.
Hypnotherapy has clinical applications for fears, phobias, depression, and even physical issues.
Techniques like color breathing and positive self-talk can be used to improve well-being.

Pallavi Devulapalli; Green Party election special. Audio version

Welcome to the podcast where we will delve into the world of politics in the run up to the UK General Election. In today's episode, we have a special guest, Dr. Pallavi Devulapalli, a Green Party councillor and spokesperson on health. With a background in medicine, environmental activism and a passion for making a positive change, Pallavi shares her motivations for entering the political arena and her determination to be a part of the solution. We discuss the challenges of the current political landscape, including corruption and the need for better representation. Pallavi highlights the Green Party's unique advantage of not being influenced by big business, allowing them to focus on science, ethics, and compassion. We also explore the party's approach to cutting crime, addressing the wider determinants of health, and their stance on immigration. Join us as we uncover the underlying philosophy of the Green Party and how their commitment to the environment shapes their policies across various areas. Get ready for an insightful and thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Pallavi Devulapalli
 
The Green Party believes that addressing the wider determinants of health, such as poverty and lack of opportunities, will help reduce crime.
They advocate for making drugs available through controlled regulation to improve safety and reduce crime.
The Green Party's policies are interconnected, with links between health, transport, defense, peace, and security.
They aim to reduce inequalities in population health and draw on the work of Sir Michael Marmot.
The Green Party opposes MPs having investments in private healthcare and believes in the interconnectedness of mental and physical health.
Their underlying philosophy is based on compassion and helping all living creatures on the planet.
They advocate for a public national health service and increased funding to restore and sustain it. 8. The Green Party welcomes refugees and opposes dehumanizing language and rhetoric surrounding them.
They believe in speaking up and gaining power to implement their policies, even if it means challenging the two major parties.
Pallavi finds nourishment and optimism through practicing yoga and finding joy in her work as a GP and in politics.

Pallavi Devulapalli; Green Party election special. Video edition

Welcome to the podcast where we will delve into the world of politics in the run up to the UK General Election. In today's episode, we have a special guest, Dr. Pallavi Devulapalli, a Green Party councillor and spokesperson on health. With a background in medicine, environmental activism and a passion for making a positive change, Pallavi shares her motivations for entering the political arena and her determination to be a part of the solution. We discuss the challenges of the current political landscape, including corruption and the need for better representation. Pallavi highlights the Green Party's unique advantage of not being influenced by big business, allowing them to focus on science, ethics, and compassion. We also explore the party's approach to cutting crime, addressing the wider determinants of health, and their stance on immigration. Join us as we uncover the underlying philosophy of the Green Party and how their commitment to the environment shapes their policies across various areas. Get ready for an insightful and thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Pallavi Devulapalli
 
The Green Party believes that addressing the wider determinants of health, such as poverty and lack of opportunities, will help reduce crime.
They advocate for making drugs available through controlled regulation to improve safety and reduce crime.
The Green Party's policies are interconnected, with links between health, transport, defense, peace, and security.
They aim to reduce inequalities in population health and draw on the work of Sir Michael Marmot.
The Green Party opposes MPs having investments in private healthcare and believes in the interconnectedness of mental and physical health.
Their underlying philosophy is based on compassion and helping all living creatures on the planet.
They advocate for a public national health service and increased funding to restore and sustain it. 8. The Green Party welcomes refugees and opposes dehumanizing language and rhetoric surrounding them.
They believe in speaking up and gaining power to implement their policies, even if it means challenging the two major parties.
Pallavi finds nourishment and optimism through practicing yoga and finding joy in her work as a GP and in politics.

Gina Miller; True and Fair party. Election special. Audio version

In this captivating conversation, businesswoman and activist Gina Miller takes center stage as she discusses her journey and the important work she is doing. Known for her groundbreaking case against the British government following the Brexit referendum, Gina has been a vocal advocate for transparency and fairness in various industries. She founded the True and Fair Campaign in 2012, aiming to combat financial misconduct in investment and pension sectors. Recently, she has started a political party with the same name, seeking to address the concerns of the public and bring about positive change. Throughout the conversation, Gina's passion for social justice and her determination to challenge corruption shine through. Her experiences, including her time at boarding school and her upbringing in a Commonwealth country, have shaped her perspective and fueled her drive to make a difference. Join us as we delve into Gina's motivations, her thoughts on the current state of society, and her vision for a better future.
Six key points
1. The conversation revolves around the need for change in various sectors, particularly the NHS, but there is a concern that the government's idea of change is simply budget cuts.
2. The erosion of community and the dependence on financial institutions is seen as a counter-revolution against the welfare state and capitalism's need for people to rely on them.
3. There is a call for a more holistic approach to policymaking, where different areas such as the NHS, education, and the economy work together.
4. The importance of hard work and active involvement in making things right is emphasized, rather than relying on others to fix problems.
5. The leaders of the country are seen as responsible for the emotional and soulful state of the nation, and their behavior sets a trend that affects society.
6. The conversation touches on the idea of a wellness economy, focusing on health, happiness, and community cohesion as essential components for a sustainable future.
https://www.trueandfairparty.uk/

Gina Miller; True and Fair party. Election special. Video version

In this captivating conversation, businesswoman and activist Gina Miller takes center stage as she discusses her journey and the important work she is doing. Known for her groundbreaking case against the British government following the Brexit referendum, Gina has been a vocal advocate for transparency and fairness in various industries. She founded the True and Fair Campaign in 2012, aiming to combat financial misconduct in investment and pension sectors. Recently, she has started a political party with the same name, seeking to address the concerns of the public and bring about positive change. Throughout the conversation, Gina's passion for social justice and her determination to challenge corruption shine through. Her experiences, including her time at boarding school and her upbringing in a Commonwealth country, have shaped her perspective and fueled her drive to make a difference. Join us as we delve into Gina's motivations, her thoughts on the current state of society, and her vision for a better future.
Six key points
1. The conversation revolves around the need for change in various sectors, particularly the NHS, but there is a concern that the government's idea of change is simply budget cuts.
2. The erosion of community and the dependence on financial institutions is seen as a counter-revolution against the welfare state and capitalism's need for people to rely on them.
3. There is a call for a more holistic approach to policymaking, where different areas such as the NHS, education, and the economy work together.
4. The importance of hard work and active involvement in making things right is emphasized, rather than relying on others to fix problems.
5. The leaders of the country are seen as responsible for the emotional and soulful state of the nation, and their behavior sets a trend that affects society.
6. The conversation touches on the idea of a wellness economy, focusing on health, happiness, and community cohesion as essential components for a sustainable future.
https://www.trueandfairparty.uk/

Michiel van Vreeswijk. Audio. The Complexity of the Internal World: The Role of Schemas and the Importance of Emotion in Psychotherapy

Michiel is a psychotherapist, psychologist and author who has written widely about Schema therapy. In this wide ranging conversation we discuss the importance of authenticity and emotion in therapeutic work. Here are five key points;
1. Peer supervision in therapy can sometimes focus too much on providing advice and techniques, rather than creating a space for therapists to share their vulnerabilities and connect authentically.
2. Many training programs in therapy emphasize techniques and attitudes, rather than teaching therapists how to connect with their own emotions and share them with clients. 3. The use of schemas and modes in therapy can become overly complex, with therapists feeling the need to label every aspect of a client's internal world. This can detract from the understanding of the complexity and individuality of each person's experiences.
4. Group therapy elements should be given more attention in research and practice, as they provide a mini society where individuals can explore and learn from the differences and dynamics within the group.
5. Therapists need to prioritize self-care and listen to their own minds and bodies. This includes recognizing signs of detachment, cynicism, and loss of interest, and taking them seriously to prevent burnout.
 
Michiel van Vreeswijk, MSc is clinical psychologist and CEO of G-Kracht Mental Health Care Institute, The Netherlands. He is a certified supervisor and personal therapist in cognitive behavioral therapy (VGCt; Dutch CBT society), certified supervisor schematherapy individual and group schema therapy (ISST, Dutch society of ST) and specialist group therapy (Dutch society of group psychotherapie: NVGP). Michiel  gives regularly schema therapy workshops/supervision/ personal therapy in the Netherlands and worldwide. He is (co-) author/ editor of several schema books/ chapters/ articles and is a researcher in schema group therapy.

Michiel van Vreeswijk. Video. The Complexity of the Internal World: The Role of Schemas and the Importance of Emotion in Psychotherapy

Michiel is a psychotherapist, psychologist and author who has written widely about Schema therapy. In this wide ranging conversation we discuss the importance of authenticity and emotion in therapeutic work. Here are five key points;
1. Peer supervision in therapy can sometimes focus too much on providing advice and techniques, rather than creating a space for therapists to share their vulnerabilities and connect authentically.
2. Many training programs in therapy emphasize techniques and attitudes, rather than teaching therapists how to connect with their own emotions and share them with clients. 3. The use of schemas and modes in therapy can become overly complex, with therapists feeling the need to label every aspect of a client's internal world. This can detract from the understanding of the complexity and individuality of each person's experiences.
4. Group therapy elements should be given more attention in research and practice, as they provide a mini society where individuals can explore and learn from the differences and dynamics within the group.
5. Therapists need to prioritize self-care and listen to their own minds and bodies. This includes recognizing signs of detachment, cynicism, and loss of interest, and taking them seriously to prevent burnout.
 
Michiel van Vreeswijk, MSc is clinical psychologist and CEO of G-Kracht Mental Health Care Institute, The Netherlands. He is a certified supervisor and personal therapist in cognitive behavioral therapy (VGCt; Dutch CBT society), certified supervisor schematherapy individual and group schema therapy (ISST, Dutch society of ST) and specialist group therapy (Dutch society of group psychotherapie: NVGP). Michiel  gives regularly schema therapy workshops/supervision/ personal therapy in the Netherlands and worldwide. He is (co-) author/ editor of several schema books/ chapters/ articles and is a researcher in schema group therapy.

David Breakspear; From Prison to Purpose: Creating Meaningful Lives After Incarceration

In this conversation, David Breakspear, a former prisoner and now a mentor and advocate for criminal justice reform, shares his insights and experiences with David and Naomi. David emphasizes the importance of listening and asking the right questions when working with individuals who have been through the criminal justice system. He believes that by shifting the focus from "what's wrong with you" to "what's happened to you," we can help people overcome their resentment and find a better path in life. David also discusses his involvement with organizations like Revolving Doors and Shannon Trust, where he uses his lived experience to support others. He highlights the power of language and the need for the system to use the right kind of language when addressing individuals who have been in prison. The conversation touches on the disruptive nature of custodial sentences and the challenges faced by individuals reintegrating into society. David shares his journey of turning his negative experiences into something purposeful and meaningful. He also talks about his involvement with Reconnect, a program that aims to support individuals transitioning from prison to the community. Throughout the conversation, David emphasizes the importance of speaking truth to power and advocating for change in the criminal justice system. He discusses the impact of neurodiversity and the need for support and understanding for individuals with diverse needs in prison. Overall, the conversation provides a powerful and thought-provoking perspective on the criminal justice system and the importance of empathy, understanding, and support in helping individuals overcome their past and build a better future.
Main Points
1. Living in probation hostels or approved premises can be challenging due to the mix of residents with different criminal backgrounds and the restrictions placed on individuals. It can feel like being stuck in a confined space where all daily activities take place.
2. The age of criminal responsibility in Europe is the lowest at 10 years old, and children are often criminalized too young. The focus should be on addressing the underlying needs of young people, particularly in the school-to-prison pipeline and school exclusions.
3. Mentoring and support play a crucial role in helping individuals overcome resentment and navigate through difficult situations. Listening and asking the right questions can help individuals see their potential and find alternative paths.
4. The criminal justice system should prioritize meeting the health needs of individuals, regardless of their offenses. Providing support and addressing unmet needs can reduce the likelihood of reoffending.
5. Personal experiences and the support of organizations like ReConnect have shown the importance of addressing health needs and providing opportunities for individuals to turn their lives around. Early intervention and support can prevent individuals from getting caught in the cycle of the criminal justice system.
 

David Breakspear; From Prison to Purpose: Creating Meaningful Lives After Incarceration. Video version

In this conversation, David Breakspear, a former prisoner and now a mentor and advocate for criminal justice reform, shares his insights and experiences with David and Naomi. David emphasizes the importance of listening and asking the right questions when working with individuals who have been through the criminal justice system. He believes that by shifting the focus from "what's wrong with you" to "what's happened to you," we can help people overcome their resentment and find a better path in life. David also discusses his involvement with organizations like Revolving Doors and Shannon Trust, where he uses his lived experience to support others. He highlights the power of language and the need for the system to use the right kind of language when addressing individuals who have been in prison. The conversation touches on the disruptive nature of custodial sentences and the challenges faced by individuals reintegrating into society. David shares his journey of turning his negative experiences into something purposeful and meaningful. He also talks about his involvement with Reconnect, a program that aims to support individuals transitioning from prison to the community. Throughout the conversation, David emphasizes the importance of speaking truth to power and advocating for change in the criminal justice system. He discusses the impact of neurodiversity and the need for support and understanding for individuals with diverse needs in prison. Overall, the conversation provides a powerful and thought-provoking perspective on the criminal justice system and the importance of empathy, understanding, and support in helping individuals overcome their past and build a better future.
Main Points
1. Living in probation hostels or approved premises can be challenging due to the mix of residents with different criminal backgrounds and the restrictions placed on individuals. It can feel like being stuck in a confined space where all daily activities take place.
2. The age of criminal responsibility in Europe is the lowest at 10 years old, and children are often criminalized too young. The focus should be on addressing the underlying needs of young people, particularly in the school-to-prison pipeline and school exclusions.
3. Mentoring and support play a crucial role in helping individuals overcome resentment and navigate through difficult situations. Listening and asking the right questions can help individuals see their potential and find alternative paths.
4. The criminal justice system should prioritize meeting the health needs of individuals, regardless of their offenses. Providing support and addressing unmet needs can reduce the likelihood of reoffending.
5. Personal experiences and the support of organizations like ReConnect have shown the importance of addressing health needs and providing opportunities for individuals to turn their lives around. Early intervention and support can prevent individuals from getting caught in the cycle of the criminal justice system.
 

Greg Clarke; Exploring the Intersection of Psychology and Sports. Video version

In this episode we interview Dr. Greg Clarke, a clinical psychologist with a diverse background in various roles. Dr. Clarke has worked as a clinical lead for a chronic pain service, a consultant psychologist, and head of psychology within a low secure rehab service. He has also worked as a lead clinical performance psychologist at a Premier League football club. During the conversation, Dr. Clarke discusses his experiences working in the field of clinical psychology and sports psychology. He shares insights into the challenges and rewards of working in these areas, highlighting the importance of maintaining a balance between personal and professional life. Dr. Clarke also discusses the temporary nature of the sports industry and the impact it can have on individuals' mental health. He emphasizes the significance of acceptance and the ability to overcome psychological pain, drawing on his experiences working with patients in pain services. Dr. Clarke also touches on the role of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR) in his practice. Overall, the conversation provides valuable insights into the field of clinical psychology and the intersection of psychology and sports. Dr. Clarke's experiences shed light on the challenges and rewards of working in these areas and the importance of maintaining a balanced approach to life and work.

Greg Clarke; Exploring the Intersection of Psychology and Sports

In this episode of the Locked Up Living podcast,we interview Dr. Greg Clarke, a clinical psychologist with a diverse background in various roles. Dr. Clarke has worked as a clinical lead for a chronic pain service, a consultant psychologist, and head of psychology within a low secure rehab service. He has also worked as a lead clinical performance psychologist at a Premier League football club. During the conversation, Dr. Clarke discusses his experiences working in the field of clinical psychology and sports psychology. He shares insights into the challenges and rewards of working in these areas, highlighting the importance of maintaining a balance between personal and professional life. Dr. Clarke also discusses the temporary nature of the sports industry and the impact it can have on individuals' mental health. He emphasizes the significance of acceptance and the ability to overcome psychological pain, drawing on his experiences working with patients in pain services. Dr. Clarke also touches on the role of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR) in his practice. Overall, the conversation provides valuable insights into the field of clinical psychology and the intersection of psychology and sports. Dr. Clarke's experiences shed light on the challenges and rewards of working in these areas and the importance of maintaining a balanced approach to life and work.

186. Drew; The Moral Injury of Holding Terrifying Information

Drew; The Moral Injury of Holding Terrifying Information
In this episode of the Locked Up Living podcast, hosts Naomi and David  delve into an engaging dialogue with professional organisational consultant and executive coach, Drew. They touch upon an array of topics from the nuances of team dynamics in institutional settings, diverse career paths, to the remarkable influence of psychotherapy. The conversation also explores the challenges of voicing concerns within the workplace.
The episode traces Drew's unique journey from IT to psychotherapy, beginning from his early interest in people and problem-solving. Drew's experiences offer valuable insights into tackling professional issues while nurturing a passion for connecting with people. The episode further explores Drew's insights gained from transactional analysis and life scripts, highlighting the potential of personal growth via self-exploration and professional learning.
The narrative captures Drew's shift from the challenging sphere of financial services to psychotherapy, ignited by an alarming incident at his workplace. A stark representation of workplace malpractice and the bravery required to stand up against them, Drew’s story stresses the importance of confronting such wrongdoings. The episode also delves into the intensely personal fallout of such experiences, including confusion, betrayal, and moral injury.
However, the conversation moves beyond distress to reflect on resilience in the face of adversity. It emphasizes the need for safe and open dialogues in the face of injustice, with a crucial take-away: those in similar situations are not alone.
The exchange explores the intricacies of organizational culture, discussing minor aggressions and a culture of silence that may lead to escalation of serious incidents. Drew challenges the widespread notion of whistleblowers  as disruptors, viewing them instead as responsible individuals illuminating issues in the workplace.(And he does not frame himself as one, rather he sees himself as someone who specialises in the nature authentic psychological safety and recognises the importance of disclosure in organisations.)
We end with an exploration of ‘physis’ –or our energy presence in the world– Drew captures the essence of self-care, purposeful expression and healthy relationships. The discourse advocates for transformative cultural shifts in organizations towards transparency, courage, and conscious relational dynamics, reinforcing the role of voices and dialogues in these environments.

186. Drew; The Moral Injury of Holding Terrifying Information

In this episode of the Locked Up Living podcast, hosts Naomi and David  delve into an engaging dialogue with professional organisational consultant and executive coach, Drew. They touch upon an array of topics from the nuances of team dynamics in institutional settings, diverse career paths, to the remarkable influence of psychotherapy. The conversation also explores the challenges of voicing concerns within the workplace.The episode traces Drew's unique journey from IT to psychotherapy, beginning from his early interest in people and problem-solving. Drew's experiences offer valuable insights into tackling professional issues while nurturing a passion for connecting with people. The episode further explores Drew's insights gained from transactional analysis and life scripts, highlighting the potential of personal growth via self-exploration and professional learning.The narrative captures Drew's shift from the challenging sphere of financial services to psychotherapy, ignited by an alarming incident at his workplace. A stark representation of workplace malpractice and the bravery required to stand up against them, Drew’s story stresses the importance of confronting such wrongdoings. The episode also delves into the intensely personal fallout of such experiences, including confusion, betrayal, and moral injury.However, the conversation moves beyond distress to reflect on resilience in the face of adversity. It emphasizes the need for safe and open dialogues in the face of injustice, with a crucial take-away: those in similar situations are not alone.The exchange explores the intricacies of organizational culture, discussing minor aggressions and a culture of silence that may lead to escalation of serious incidents. Drew challenges the widespread notion of whistleblowers  as disruptors, viewing them instead as responsible individuals illuminating issues in the workplace.(And he does not frame himself as one, rather he sees himself as someone who specialises in the nature authentic psychological safety and recognises the importance of disclosure in organisations.)We end with an exploration of ‘physis’ –or our energy presence in the world– Drew captures the essence of self-care, purposeful expression and healthy relationships. The discourse advocates for transformative cultural shifts in organizations towards transparency, courage, and conscious relational dynamics, reinforcing the role of voices and dialogues in these environments.

185. Jason Warr; Unmasking Vulnerability: The Dual Dominance Experienced by Forensic Psychologists

We were captivated by the depth and richness of Jason's research. His passion for the subject matter was evident, and it shone through in his detailed responses in this podcast.
Jason, discusses his research on the experiences of forensic psychologists working in prisons. He emphasizes the importance of humanizing the individuals in the prison system and understanding their vulnerability and humanness.  He mentions the fragmentation of services in prisons and the need to return to more therapeutic practices that were lost in the 1990s.
Jason initially faced challenges in gaining access to conduct his research on risk assessment models in prisons. - He discusses the diffusing of responsibility and the opaque system of bureaucracy within the prison system. 
Jason talks about the need for forensic psychologists to be aware of their power and the effects it has on individuals.
He mentions the existence of a whisper network among women working in prisons to protect themselves from sexism and misogyny. Jason highlights the hidden power dynamics within the prison system and the impact of decisions made by forensic psychologists.
He expresses his desire for changes in the prison system, including more awareness of power dynamics, better support for forensic psychologists, and the importance of conducting research that may challenge existing practices.  Jason discusses the challenges of maintaining optimism and avoiding cynicism in his work, mentioning the importance of self-care and maintaining distance from the emotional aspects of the research. - He reflects on the benefits of having in-depth conversations with participants and understanding their perspectives, even if they may not align with his own.

Jason Warr; Unmasking Vulnerability: The Dual Dominance Experienced by Forensic Psychologists Video version

We were captivated by the depth and richness of Jason's research. His passion for the subject matter was evident, and it shone through in his detailed responses in this podcast.
Jason, discusses his research on the experiences of forensic psychologists working in prisons. He emphasizes the importance of humanizing the individuals in the prison system and understanding their vulnerability and humanness.  He mentions the fragmentation of services in prisons and the need to return to more therapeutic practices that were lost in the 1990s.
Jason initially faced challenges in gaining access to conduct his research on risk assessment models in prisons. - He discusses the diffusing of responsibility and the opaque system of bureaucracy within the prison system. 
Jason talks about the need for forensic psychologists to be aware of their power and the effects it has on individuals.
He mentions the existence of a whisper network among women working in prisons to protect themselves from sexism and misogyny. Jason highlights the hidden power dynamics within the prison system and the impact of decisions made by forensic psychologists.
He expresses his desire for changes in the prison system, including more awareness of power dynamics, better support for forensic psychologists, and the importance of conducting research that may challenge existing practices.  Jason discusses the challenges of maintaining optimism and avoiding cynicism in his work, mentioning the importance of self-care and maintaining distance from the emotional aspects of the research. - He reflects on the benefits of having in-depth conversations with participants and understanding their perspectives, even if they may not align with his own.

184. Nick O'Sullivan; Leadership Lessons from the Marines: Finding Opportunity in Every Situation

Nick O'Sullivan, is the Co-founder and MD of Mojave Training, a leadership and management training business. https://www.mojavetraining.co.uk/
Nick spent 13 years in the Marines, including four years in the special forces. 
Specialising as an information systems officer, his military career alternated between technical support and operational roles.  In 2015 he designed and delivered a large scale, multi-national training event for which he was awarded an MBE for his services to Defence.  But his career was certainly not all high points, and he faced a number of challenging experiences to get there, from a couple of near-death experiences to toxic leadership.
 
Nick emphasizes the importance of moral courage in leadership and personal development. He believes in looking inwardly and being honest about strengths and weaknesses.
Nick discusses the importance of belonging and being part of a team in the military. He highlights the need for leaders to lead by example and practice what they preach. Nick mentions the power of small interactions and gestures in leadership. He encourages finding opportunities in every situation, even in difficult times.
Nick shares his experience of combat deployments in Afghanistan.  He talks about the mindset and positive attitude required in challenging situations.
Nick now works with small and medium enterprises, providing leadership and management support.
 
 

183. Kaigan Corrie; Beyond the Uniform: Humanizing Prison Officers and Ex-Prisoners

In this podcast conversation, Naomi and David speak with Kaigan Carrie, the host of the Evolving Prisons podcast and a PhD researcher studying the relationship between prison officer culture and well-being. Kaigan explains that her podcast aims to share the stories of prison officers, governors, and ex-prisoners to shed light on the realities of life in prison and promote rehabilitation.
They discuss the importance of focusing on the nuances of the prison experience rather than glamorizing crime, as many true crime podcasts tend to do. Kaigan emphasizes the need for society to understand the work that prison officers do and the challenges they face. She believes that prison officers should have a voice and wants to be a platform for them to share their experiences.
Kaigan also highlights the differences in training between countries, specifically mentioning the lack of substance misuse training for prison officers in Scotland compared to Norway. She believes that proper training is crucial for addressing issues like drug use in prisons.
The conversation then shifts to Kaigan's passion for well-being and her desire to encourage people to create lives that truly fulfill them. She shares her core values, which include connection, health, freedom, and growth. Kaigan emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health and dealing with the things that are going on in one's head to find true happiness.
Lastly, Kaigan discusses her collaboration with Rob Hosking on a magazine called The Rise of Happiness, which focuses on well-being and provides expert tips and research on various aspects of health.
Overall, the conversation highlights the need for a more nuanced understanding of prison life, the importance of proper training for prison officers, and the significance of prioritizing well-being in society.
https://www.evolvingprisons.com/
https://riseofhappiness.com/about/