MAMBO: “Trail-club”, criminal desistance, and colonization 2.0

How does the criminal justice system work and what does it do? Mambo tells his story of 'no contest' and then failing to comply with probation leading to prison. Recognizing it to be an unhealthy place, we hear of 'perverse incentives' and the economics of the criminal justice system (e.g. Crime Control as Industry). We talk about how the road to hell is paved with good intentions and reference Philip G. Zimbardo (Stanford Prison Experiment 1971) and Stanley Milgram (Obedience to Authority) as examples. Yet Mambo speaks positively about his prison experience and the interpersonal 'tool kit' and skill-set that has instilled optimism, mindfulness, and dignity for him. We touch on the intersectionality of queer people, veterans and the relationship between prison and military service. We hear about 'manufacturing consent' and issues of 'what if' and 'if than' risk-based suppositions. We observe of the carceral pathways to prison and the internal locus of behavioural control needed for 'getting off paper' and desisting a past lifestyle. This episode is about instilling worth for system-impacted people and problematizing the hierarchy of classism; and colonization that devalues human life. Mambo shares his experience with marginalization and the bonds formed from suffering. Despite internalizations of shame and trauma, this is a story of ambition for reform and advocacy in South Dakota that 'fills one's cup' with gratitude.

PODCASTS Criminal - EarHustle - 70 Million - Inner Circle - This Land

ORGANIZATION How to Justice

PEOPLE Russell Means Leonard Peltier

BOOKS The Surrender Experiment: My Journey Into Life's Perfection by Michael A. Singer

Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents by Isabel Wilkerson