Best Michael Cantrell Podcasts (2024)

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Episode 2: Mike Milstein 29:45

15h ago29:45

29:45

Mike Milstein is an experienced law enforcement professional with a robust background in leadership and public safety. Currently, he plays a pivotal role in addressing critical issues within the law enforcement community, such as drug overdose responses, behavioral health crises, and hate crime prevention. Mike is known for his strategic approach t…

1
What Do You Think? 38:42

4d ago38:42

38:42

“What do you think, Simon?” “What do you think? If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off? " “What do you think about the Christ? Whose son is he?” "Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? " "Do you think that these Galileans were wor…

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81: A Journey through Leadership, Training, and Corrections Challenges - Interview w/Joseph Gunja 1:22:42

5d ago1:22:42

1:22:42

Send us a Text Message. Joe Gunja's career trajectory from a military police officer to a regional director is not just a tale of personal achievement, but also a story of the varying levels of inmate-related issues and the work required in the different roles. Joe reveals a career where promotions often come with intricate challenges and highlight…

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80: Are You a Hunter or Are You Prey? 23:00

24d ago23:00

23:00

Send us a Text Message. A prison is a place of violence. Pretty quickly, as they begin their sentence inside, other inmates categorize each other as Predator or Prey. As a Hunter or the Hunted. Their role is determined by whether or not they have the strength to stand up against the other inmates. Will they run and hide in their cell, or will they …

1
Receive Life 25:27

1M ago25:27

25:27

We want to receive the life that God gives us, not choose our life for ourselves.By Michael Cantrell

1
Episode 1: Michael Cantrell 32:51

1M ago32:51

32:51

Host of The Prison Officer Podcast, Mike Cantrell has been in corrections for over 28 years. He has recently retired from the Federal Bureau of Prisons as the Chief of the Office of Emergency Preparedness. He is a firearms, less lethal, breaching and disturbance control instructor and has led special response, disturbance control and canine teams o…

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79: The Best of The Prison Officer - Strangeways - A Prison Officer's Story - Interview w/Neil "Sam" Samworth 1:12:29

1M ago1:12:29

1:12:29

Send us a Text Message. Walking the corridors of HMP Manchester, former Prison Officer and author Neil Samworth—known as Sam—witnessed the stark realities of prison life, a tale he recounts with raw honesty in "Strange Ways: A Prison Officer's Story." Join us as we step into Sam's world, where the line between guard and guarded blurs, and where hum…

1
The Exclusive Claims of Jesus | Part 1 27:57

2M ago27:57

27:57

"Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.” “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?”…

1
78: A Journey of Growth and Change in Prison Management - Interview w/Art Beeler 1:05:38

2M ago1:05:38

1:05:38

Send us a Text Message. His four decades in the Bureau of Prisons have equipped him with a library of stories, and in our latest episode, Art's candid reflections peel back the curtain on the daily grind of corrections work, from the first clang of the prison doors to the intricate challenges of managing inmate programs. His tales are not just a na…

1
77: Behind the Bars - Prayers & Executions - Interview w/Larry Peoples 45:40

2M ago45:40

45:40

Send us a Text Message. This episode doesn't just chronicle Larry's experiences, it delves into the heart of what it means to uphold justice in one of the most challenging environments imaginable. He shares vivid details of the 'death watch,' the procedure leading up to executions, and provides a sobering glimpse into the complexity of enforcing th…

1
What About: Myrrh? 19:48

2M ago19:48

19:48

On the cross, they offered Jesus wine mixed with myrrh to drink, but he didn't take it. -- Mark 15 I have come into my garden, my sister, my bride. I have gathered my myrrh with my spice; I have eaten my honeycomb with my honey; I have drunk my wine with my milk. Eat, friends! Drink, yes, drink abundantly, beloved. -- Song of Songs 5…

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Bless Those Who . . . 24:44

3M ago24:44

24:44

“But I tell you who hear me: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you. . . . love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, because He is kind to the ungrateful and …

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76: Part 2 - Best of The Prison Officer - The Unseen Battles of Correctional Integrity - Interview w/Glen MacDonald 1:01:17

3M ago1:01:17

1:01:17

Send us a Text Message. In today’s episode, we talk with former BOP Captain Glen MacDonald about doing the right thing, even when it is tough. Glen walks us through many of the decisions throughout his life and career, where doing the right thing was not popular. Despite being shunned by staff, loss of promotions, and horrible stress, Glen persever…

1
A Diary Entry: Prayer & Testing 36:29

3M ago36:29

36:29

This is a more personal episode, a sort of diary entry. Let's all listen for the Teacher's voice as we commit ourselves to walking with Him. --- Lord, teach me to pray. Open my eyes to see beyond the earthly to the heavenly. Let my primary concerns be heavenly ones, that Your kingdom may come on Earth, Your will be done in me and in those I love. T…

1
75: Part 1 - Best of The Prison Officer - Doing What's Right, Even When it's Tough - Interview w/Glen MacDonald 1:00:07

3M ago1:00:07

1:00:07

Send us a Text Message. Glen's reflections on the internal battles correctional officers face—such as finding drugs and corruption within their ranks—are eye-opening. These revelations highlight the lesser-known aspects of prison life and the constant vigilance required to uphold the law within its walls. The discussion around the corruption he wit…

1
Foundations - Part 4 30:34

4M ago30:34

30:34

What are Foundations of faith? God's purposes include our sharing in His nature our surrendering everything to His will Today we look at these two aspects of the Will of God. Mentioned in today's episode: John Wesley's Covenant ServiceBy Michael Cantrell

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74: Part 2 - When Stress Tries to Kill You - Interview with Bronner "Bama" Allen 1:06:15

4M ago1:06:15

1:06:15

Send us a Text Message. It is not merely the high-stakes nature of maintaining order that this interview touches upon. The psychological toll of being a correctional officer is scrutinized through "Bama's" heartfelt story. He takes us through the day-to-day operations within the prison walls, where he encountered a gamut of scenarios – from gang vi…

1
Unpredictable 25:45

4M ago25:45

25:45

Is God predictable? Can we anticipate all that He will do? Can we predict His actions? Are we willing to be like polished stone? . . .the foolishness of God is wiser than man’s wisdom. . . . . . the wisdom of this world is foolishness in God’s sight. 1 CorinthiansBy Michael Cantrell

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73: Part 1 - All I Know is Corrections - Interview with Bronner "Bama" Allen 49:56

4M ago49:56

49:56

Send us a Text Message. In this episode, I talk with Bronner "Bama" Allen about his interesting career that started at The North Carolina Department of Corrections which led to a 21-year career with Federal Bureau of Prisons where he retired. But Bama wasn't done yet, he returned to where he had started at The North Carolina Department of Correctio…

1
As He Leads #9 36:08

4M ago36:08

36:08

In today's episode, I turn on the microphone and share what is on my heart, including the old hymn: Oh the deep, deep love of Jesus, Vast, unmeasured, boundless, free; Rolling as a mighty ocean, In its fullness over me. Underneath me, all around me Is the current of your love; Leading onward, leading homeward, To your glorious rest above. Oh, the d…

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72: How to Manage Inmates with Mental Illness 52:54

5M ago52:54

52:54

Send us a Text Message. In this episode, I talk about the fourteen years I worked around mental health inmates. Suicide, self-harm, schizophrenia, depression, pedophilia, they all affect the running of your housing unit. I will discuss some of the more common mental illnesses you will encounter working in corrections and some of my tips for managin…

1
This One Thing 31:23

5M ago31:23

31:23

What are God’s priorities? How does He want us to order our lives? What comes first? “One thing you lack,” "Only one thing is needed," "One thing I do know," "One thing I ask from the Lord," visit AFTAP on YoutubeBy Michael Cantrell

1
Finding a New Church 33:11

5M ago33:11

33:11

There are many reasons why people may need to find a new church. Today we talk about how to find a new fellowship and discuss guidelines for discerning the will of God in this matter. Est Populus, Non Aedificium!By Michael Cantrell

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71: Leadership and Professionalism in Correctional Tactical Teams 34:48

5M ago34:48

34:48

Send us a Text Message. In this episode, explore with me the strategies that forge resilience and cohesion in correctional tactical teams. I discuss how shared experiences bond a team and why selecting the right individuals is vital to maintaining a positive dynamic. Learn about the decision-making that goes into team structure, and specialized rol…

1
Cheat Your Boss? 31:32

5M ago31:32

31:32

Today we look at what the Lord said about, how he commended, the values of a dishonest steward. “The master commended the dishonest manager because he had acted shrewdly. For the people of this world are more shrewd in dealing with their own kind than are the people of the light. I tell you, use worldly wealth to gain friends for yourselves, so tha…

1
A Trusting Surrender 25:27

6M ago25:27

25:27

Today I look at Poems and Prayers on the theme of Trust & Surrender. Highlighted are works by Annie Johnson Flint, Andrew Murray, John & Betty Stam, and John Wesley. Rules for my life: 1. God brought me here. It is by His will that I am in this confined place. In that fact I will rest. 2. He will keep me here in His love and give me grace to behave…

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70: No Place Like Home - 40 Years in Corrections/Law Enforcement - Interview w/Keith Hellwig 1:00:39

6M ago1:00:39

1:00:39

Send us a Text Message. In this episode, I interview Keith Hellwig. Keith has been in law enforcement for over 40 years. He has worked in State and County Correctional facilities and is a certified Law Enforcement Officer. He retired in March of 2017 from Corrections holding the rank of Captain. He continues to work as a Police officer for two rura…

1
69: The Wardens - The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly 37:32

6M ago37:32

37:32

Send us a Text Message. In this episode I reflect on the Wardens I have worked for over the years. Some were amazing leaders, others were good examples of what not to do as a leader. A prison Warden can be one of the toughest jobs. Always trying to balance that line between whatever political issue headquarters is pushing and what is best at a loca…

1
What About Melchizedek? 35:05

6M ago35:05

35:05

Today we look at a man who is a bit of a mystery. Who was he? Why is he so very important in the ministry of Jesus? What can New Covenant believers learn from Melchizedek? Then Melchizedek king of Salem brought out bread and wine. He was priest of God Most High, 19 and he blessed Abram, saying, “Blessed be Abram by God Most High, Creator of heaven …

1
Foundations - Part 3 32:42

6M ago32:42

32:42

In this episode, I look at how believers are not to look back, and I address the question "Are you a Christian or a follower of Jesus". I also continue the conversation about luxury laundry products! Mentioned in this episode: Cliffe KnechtleBy Michael Cantrell

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68: Last Call at Missouri State Pen - Interview w/John Motel 55:17

6M ago55:17

55:17

Send us a Text Message. In this episode, I talk with John Motel about his career, leadership lessons, the transfer of maximum security inmates from MSP to JCCC, and his five seconds of fame when he made the last radio call from the old Missouri State Penitentiary. After ten years in the United States Army, John went to work for the Missouri Departm…

1
Instructions to Timothy 33:03

7M ago33:03

33:03

Today, I take a look at Paul's instructions to Timothy, and I also take a look at social media fortune-telling and "An Unparalleled Laundry Experience." - Take your share of suffering ... 2 Tim 1:8 - Take strength from the grace of God ... 2:1 - Take your share of hardship ... 2:3 - Remember Jesus Christ. ... 2:8 - Try hard to show yourself worthy …

1
Persevere in the Faith 15:58

7M ago15:58

15:58

The nation of Israel arrived at the Jordan river but did not believe all that God had promised, so they fell back and did not enter into that promised land. Their fear and self-preservation kept them from God's blessings. We know that we are children of God, and that the whole world is under the control of the evil one. We know also that the Son of…

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67: Leadership Works Best with Common Sense - Interview w/Percy Pitzer 40:08

7M ago40:08

40:08

Send us a Text Message. In this episode, I speak with Percy Pitzer. Percy has had a long career in corrections starting with the Bureau of Prisons, he rose through the ranks, eventually retiring as Warden. After returning to work in private corrections, he started his own corrections audit company, Creative Corrections. Percy and his family have al…

1
66: Not all Inmates are Created Equal 28:19

7M ago28:19

28:19

Send us a Text Message. After having this discussion over and over, I finally decided I am going to share my thoughts in a podcast about the use of restrictive housing. I have worked and seen the good, bad, and ugly. At the end of the day though, restrictive housing is necessary! I agree that many of our inmates need programming that prepares them …

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65: Criminal Justice Education & Corrections - Interview w/ Dr. John "Jay" Lawrie 56:57

8M ago56:57

56:57

Send us a Text Message. In this episode, I talk with Dr. John "Jay" Lawrie about his career and get some insight about the current trends in Criminal Justice education. Jay Lawrie retired from the Connecticut Department of Correction after a 20-year career at the MacDougall/Walker Correctional Institution in Suffield Ct. He then joined the faculty …

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64: The Toughest Job - Interview w/Gary York 53:15

8M ago53:15

53:15

Send us a Text Message. In this episode, I talk with Gary York, author of The Toughest Job. Author, columnist, and even TV actor...:-), Gary has a varied and interesting career. We talk about all things corrections, from staff manipulation, being married to a correctional officer, staff wellness, and much more. Gary began his career with the Depart…

1
Tempted? Tested? 25:35

9M ago25:35

25:35

A time of testing comes to all Christians. What are God's purposes? What is the difference between Testing and Tempting? What does the Bible say that will help us go through trails?By Michael Cantrell

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63: Missouri Correctional Association Fall Conference - Attendee Interviews 1:25:13

9M ago1:25:13

1:25:13

Send us a Text Message. This week I was a presenter at the Missouri Correctional Association's (MCA) Fall Conference at the Lake of the Ozarks, MO. We had a great time as I talked about Leadership - It's Your Journey and Staying Positive in a Negative Environment. After the classes, I was able to set up the podcast remotely and do several interview…

1
Tips for Teachers 38:04

9M ago38:04

38:04

Today, I share a few tips and techniques that have been helpful to me as a teacher. This episode is really for anyone who may be asked to speak at a small group, lead a devotional or even lead a large seminar.By Michael Cantrell

1
Foundations - Part 2 45:46

9M ago45:46

45:46

Today I talk about foundation stones of Repentance Relationship Rewards We also have listener mail -- a young professional shares thoughts about marriage and discipleship.By Michael Cantrell

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62: Greatness Beyond the Badge - Interview w/Michael Laidler 1:01:03

9M ago1:01:03

1:01:03

Send us a Text Message. In this episode, I talk with Michael about his path from law enforcement/correctional officer to keynote speaker and author of Greatness Beyond the Badge. We talk about the importance of self-awareness, reaching your potential, and taking the leap into greater things in your life. Michael Laidler has worked in law enforcemen…

1
Tools for Couples 24:50

10M ago24:50

24:50

Jesus replied: “Haven’t you read that at the beginning the Creator ‘made them male and female,’ and said, ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh’? So they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate.” -- Matt 19 David Pawson - …

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61: Rodeos and Riots at The Oklahoma State Pen - Interview w/Dan M. Reynolds 53:16

10M ago53:16

53:16

Send us a Text Message. In this episode I talk with Dan M. Reynolds. Dan is the author of several books about the Oklahoma State Pen, his experiences, and much more. Dan M. Reynolds takes his subjects directly from more than 30 years of correctional experience. Dan started as a case manager and would later take positions as classification auditor, …

1
A Way That Seems Right 30:05

10M ago30:05

30:05

There is a way that seems right to a man, but in the end it leads to death. -- Prov 14: 12 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts." -- Is 55: 8,9…

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60: Question and Answer Time with The Prison Officer - Michael Cantrell 40:36

10M ago40:36

40:36

Send us a Text Message. In this episode, I go back through the e-mails and messages to The Prison Officer and answer those questions that I think can apply to everyone working in corrections. I talk about lying to your bosses, the difference between working minimum and maximum security, why I come across as such a hard ass, and more. PepperBall Fro…

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59: The 1995 Harrison Correctional Facility Riot - Interview w/Robert Greenwood 1:14:10

11M ago1:14:10

1:14:10

Send us a Text Message. In this podcast, I sit down with Robert Greenwood. Robert has 35 years of experience working for the Michigan Department of Corrections in prison administration and community corrections. He has worked as a corrections officer, resident unit officer, transportation officer, trainer, cell block supervisor, captain, and deputy…

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58: The Little Things Do Matter and Why We Stand the Line 27:18

11M ago27:18

27:18

Send us a Text Message. A recent Facebook post was highlighting the fact a citizen brought in pizza for the inmates and staff...I could hardly believe the responses from citizens and staff. Be careful, I will probably hurt somebody's feelings with my commentary. There are so many things wrong with this scenario, from staff manipulation, to contraba…

1
Moving Toward Marriage - A Testimony 38:14

11M ago38:14

38:14

Mentioned in this episode -- Elisabeth Elliot on: Dating and Singleness Marriage Biblical Manhood and Womanhood Gateway to Joy radio programsBy Michael Cantrell

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57: Can Growth Rise from Trauma? - Interview w/Lindsay Faas 47:57

12M ago47:57

47:57

Send us a Text Message. In this episode, I talk with Trauma Counselor Lindsay Faas about trauma, PTSD, and whether or not there can be post-traumatic growth from trauma. I ran across this article - https://www.uwhealth.org/news/surprising-benefit-going-through-difficult-times The author talks about post-traumatic growth, as a benefit. The author al…

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