#2096 - Josh Dubin & Sheldon Johnson
Josh Dubin is the Executive Director of the Perlmutter Center for Legal Justice, a criminal justice reform advocate, and civil rights attorney.
Sheldon Johnson is a criminal justice reform advocate. He works with at risk youth at the Queens Defenders in New York.
Categories
Key Takeaways
Racial disparities significantly affect sentencing outcomes in the justice system.
Understanding these disparities is crucial for advocating for systemic reform.
Personal stories like Sheldon's illustrate the human impact of unjust convictions.
These narratives can mobilize public support for justice reform initiatives.
Growing up in a deaf household shaped the speaker's identity and experiences.
This illustrates how familial circumstances can significantly influence personal development.
The cycle of intergenerational incarceration reflects broader social issues.
Understanding this cycle is essential for addressing systemic inequalities and trauma.
Education and community support play crucial roles in personal development.
These elements can significantly influence a person’s path and choices in life.
Watch the full episode of #2096 - Josh Dubin & Sheldon Johnson.
Episode Timestamps
Discussing Sheldon Johnson's Injustice and Racial Disparities in Sentencing
- Sheldon Johnson discusses his wrongful conviction and harsh sentencing experience.
- Rogan emphasizes racial disparities in the criminal justice system and sentencing.
- The conversation highlights the need for reform in the justice system.
Exploring Identity and Adversity Through a Deaf Perspective
- The speaker shares their experiences growing up in a deaf household.
- They discuss the impact of intergenerational incarceration on identity formation.
- The conversation highlights the systemic issues related to drug laws and community struggles.
Reflections on Education and Survival in a Troubled Youth
- The speaker recounts their challenging experiences in school and prison.
- They discuss the impact of medications on their mental and physical health.
- The narrative highlights the significance of community and role models in their life.
Struggles of Purpose and Consequences of Life Choices
- The speaker discusses the impact of their upbringing on life decisions.
- They reflect on the consequences of small, seemingly insignificant choices.
- The narrative highlights the struggle for providing for family amidst criminality.
A Journey Through Crime, Consequences, and Personal Reflection
- A man's illegal lifestyle leads to severe legal consequences and reflection.
- He recounts a pivotal robbery and subsequent arrest that changed his life.
- The discussion explores morality in the context of crime and personal growth.
Transformation from Prison Life to Education and Redemption
- The speaker reflects on a life-changing moment in prison.
- Education programs in prison offered paths to redemption.
- The importance of rules in both prison and outside life is emphasized.
Transformation through prison experiences and counseling programs
- Prison led to positive changes in Shelton's life choices and beliefs.
- Substance abuse and dangerous behaviors were prevalent among inmates.
- Counseling programs in prison can be ineffective and poorly managed.
Overcoming Adversity: Journey from Prison to Education
- The speaker shares struggles faced during solitary confinement and its mental toll.
- Education became a key tool for personal redemption and helping others in prison.
- Experiences shaped a passion for mentoring youth and influencing change in the community.
Youth Leadership Programs Address Incarceration and Employment Challenges
- Youth programs focus on job readiness and conflict resolution for at-risk children.
- Participants learn critical skills like coding and engage in theater and debate.
- Advocacy aims to change perceptions within the judicial system for second chances.
Empowering Youth Through Mentorship and Civic Engagement
- Mentoring programs help youth see potential paths away from gangs.
- Civic engagement initiatives encourage youth to voice concerns in their communities.
- Financial literacy programs teach the value of legitimate earnings over street money.
Michael J. Fox Discusses Advocacy and the Prison Industrial Complex
- Michael J. Fox emphasizes the importance of proactive advocacy over passive complaint.
- He critiques the privatization of prisons and its impact on human rights.
- Fox shares personal insights on common sense versus academic success in law.
Exploring the Impact of Prison Labor on Society
- Prison labor is still prevalent and linked to modern supply chains.
- Forensic science has significant flaws affecting justice outcomes.
- Activism and policy reform are necessary to address systemic injustices.
Addressing Immigration and Reintegration Challenges in America
- Discussion highlights issues in immigration while neglecting domestic homelessness and veterans.
- Critique of the prison system and its impact on individuals' reintegration into society.
- Emphasis on the importance of education and technology for reducing recidivism.
Reintegration Programs for Formerly Incarcerated Individuals Highlighted
- Hudson Link provides educational and reintegration services to formerly incarcerated individuals.
- Michael Capra, a warden, supports programs helping inmates transition back to society.
- Dyslexia is prevalent among incarcerated individuals, highlighting a need for educational support.
Literacy Challenges Among Prisoners and Their Impact on Reintegration
- Approximately 80% of prisoners struggle with literacy skills, affecting reintegration.
- Half of these inmates are likely dyslexic, complicating their rehabilitation efforts.
- The legal system's shortcomings hinder prisoners' ability to navigate essential processes.
Exploring Racial Bias in the Criminal Justice System
- Judges and officers may exhibit bias against Black individuals in the justice system.
- Incarceration costs are significant, suggesting a need for reform and investment in programs.
- Current funding disparities in education reflect historical injustices and systemic issues.
Florida's Funding Controversies and Education Equity Discussed
- Governor DeSantis faces criticism over funding disparities among Florida universities.
- The discussion highlights historical context of segregation in educational funding.
- Controversial statements on 'woke' politics and its implications are examined.
Discussion on Education and Clemency for Incarcerated Individuals
- Education for incarcerated individuals significantly reduces recidivism rates.
- Collaboration among organizations can enhance clemency initiatives effectively.
- Governors face pressure regarding education funding during election years.
People Mentioned
Sheldon Johnson
Wrongfully convicted individual, Advocate for justice reform
Joe Rogan
Podcast host, Comedian, Commentator
Sheldon
Speaker sharing personal narratives
Unidentified speaker
Former incarcerated youth, Student pursuing education
Unnamed speaker
Narrator/Participant
Unnamed Speaker
Executive Director at Perlmutter Center, Mentor, Former Inmate, Prisoner, Former criminal, Reflective individual, Educated Individual
Shelton
Former inmate, Participant in counseling programs
Bruce Bryant
Formerly incarcerated individual, Youth Program Coordinator, Client Advocate
Rashad Rouhani
Co-host, Youth Program Coordinator
Dania Diaz
Mentor, Program Coordinator
Gloria Carter
Philanthropist, Activist
Michael J. Fox
Actor, Advocate
Sarah Chu
Forensic Scientist, Policy Advisor
Rebecca Brown
Policy Advocate
Michael Capra
Warden of Sing Sing Prison
Sean Pica
Founder of Hudson Link
Alison Hart
Attorney, Advocate
Derrick Hamilton
Inmate, Justice Advocate
Bruce
Legal contact
Josh
Criminal justice reform advocate
Governor DeSantis
Governor of Florida
Andrew Cuomo
Former Governor of New York
Bill Clinton
Former President of the United States
Steve Zeidman
Legal advocate
Places Mentioned
Harlem
Neighborhood
Mount Sinai Hospital
Hospital
Rikers Island
Prison
HBCUs
Educational Institutions
Great Meadows Correctional Facility
Prison
Hudson Link
Educational organization
Sing Sing Prison
Correctional facility
Florida
State
Books Mentioned
Man's Search for Meaning
Viktor Frankl
Thinking, Fast and Slow
Daniel Kahneman
Belly of the Beast
Unknown
Notable Quotes
"I'm talking equality outcome. That's possible. Equality opportunity possible."
Discussing the need for equality in the justice system.
"You know, one thing that's happened in conversations we've had on this show, it highlights the insanely broken criminal justice system."
Reflecting on the discussions and their impact on societal views.
"Child, grew protecting mother. Never really feel like hindsight, really opportunity child."
Reflecting on the challenges faced while growing up in a deaf household.
"Throw crack it, like gasoline fire."
Discussing the devastating impact of crack on communities.
"I remember lying to the officer. Said, how old are you? Said, I’m 16."
Discussing their desire to experience prison life to gain respect.