The Criminologist

40 Episodes
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By: Joe Arvidson

Host Joseph Arvidson brings criminologist, practitioners, academics and those with lived experiences from around the world together to discuss the age old dilemma of responding to society's criminal element. Merging established correctional policy with emerging desistance models, this show illustrates how adopting a holistic lens and constantly questioning established approaches can best serves justice involved individuals.

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EP 250: A Different Kind of Justice. How Leadership Culture Shapes Corrections
#250
Today at 12:45 AM

What if some of the biggest challenges in corrections are not simply about programs, policies, or training—but about the way we lead?

In this episode of The Criminologist Podcast, filmmaker, author, and organizational culture expert Dara Barlin joins the show for a wide-ranging conversation about human-centered leadership, correctional culture, staff well-being, implementation, and the ripple effects leadership can have throughout a justice organization.

Dara is the Executive Director of the Center for Transforming Culture, author of A New Kind of Power, and filmmaker behind the documentary A Different Kind of Justice. Her work asks a...


EP 229: Leadership in Corrections. Brian Gates and the Five Instruments of Leadership
#229
10/07/2026

What separates a leader who simply manages people from one who actually develops them?

In this episode of The Criminologist Podcast, Brian K. Gates, Director of Programs with the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction, joins the show for a practical conversation about leadership, culture, community supervision, and what it takes to build stronger professionals inside complex correctional systems.

Brian brings more than three decades of experience in community corrections, beginning his career as a probation and parole officer and progressing into statewide executive leadership. Along the way, he developed a memorable framework he calls...


EP 228- Train and Pray: What Happens After the Training Ends?
#248
09/09/2026

Training matters. But what happens after the training ends?

In this special mini-episode of The Criminologist Podcast, Joseph Arvidson reflects on a question that correctional organizations—and perhaps the broader helping professions—need to ask more often:

How do we know whether training actually resulted in learning, application, and improved proficiency?

Agencies invest significant time and resources in conferences, certifications, curricula, and staff development. We document attendance. We issue certificates. We check the box.

But then what?

Your host introduces what he jokingly calls the "Trai


EP 228- Train and Pray: What Happens After the Training Ends?
#248
09/09/2026

Training matters. But what happens after the training ends?

In this special mini-episode of The Criminologist Podcast, Joseph Arvidson reflects on a question that correctional organizations—and perhaps the broader helping professions—need to ask more often:

How do we know whether training actually resulted in learning, application, and improved proficiency?

Agencies invest significant time and resources in conferences, certifications, curricula, and staff development. We document attendance. We issue certificates. We check the box.

But then what?

Your host introduces what he jokingly calls the "Trai


EP 247: Taking RNR Across Cultures. Carolina Báez Hernández on Evidence, Implementation, and Reform
#247
08/18/2026

What does it take to move evidence-based corrections across cultures — and make reform survive the real world?

In this episode of The Criminologist Podcast, Joseph Arvidson sits down with Chilean psychologist and correctional reform specialist Carolina Báez Hernández for a wide-ranging conversation about evidence-based practice, Risk-Need-Responsivity, implementation, culture, leadership, and the realities of correctional reform.

Joe and Carolina first met in Barcelona at the International Training School on Core Correctional Skills, where Joe was an instructor and Carolina was a participant. Their professional paths later crossed again in Uruguay, where Carolina joined Joe duri...


EP 246: Why We Can't Look Away. Dr. Debbie Goodman on True Crime, Victims & Violence
#246
08/04/2026

Why are we so fascinated by high-profile crime—and when does that fascination cross the line from understanding into entertainment?

In Episode 246 of The Criminologist Podcast, Joseph Arvidson welcomes criminologist, professor, author, media contributor, and host Dr. Debbie Goodman for a wide-ranging conversation about crime, justice, and public understanding.

Dr. Goodman explores the difference between consuming true crime and examining crime through a criminological lens. She discusses how victims and survivors are represented in the media, why complex acts of violence resist simple explanations, and what the public often misunderstands about juvenile offending, mass violence, fa...


EP 245: Creating Conditions for Success. Dianna Kalandros on Justice Innovation
#235
07/21/2026

In this episode of The Criminologist Podcast, host Joseph Arvidson welcomes Dianna Kalandros, Director of the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council in Coconino County, Arizona, for a conversation about collaboration, innovation, and what it means to humanize the justice system in practical ways.

Dianna discusses the role of Criminal Justice Coordinating Councils, the importance of bringing stakeholders together, and how local systems can respond to long-standing challenges in probation, courts, corrections, and community justice through creativity and collaboration.

A central theme of the conversation is the shift from simply asking, "How do we respond when people...


EP 244: Sound, Somatics, and Rehabilitation: Caroline Georgiou on Healing Inside Prison
#244
07/07/2026

n this episode of The Criminologist Podcast, host Joseph Arvidson welcomes Caroline Georgiou for a conversation unlike any we have had on the show before.

Caroline is a trauma-trained counsellor, somatic movement therapist, clinical supervisor, and one of the world's leading innerdance facilitators and trainers. Her work explores the relationship between sound, trauma, the nervous system, emotional regulation, identity, inner awareness, and human transformation — including within prison settings.

Together, Joe and Caroline explore what happens when rehabilitation moves beneath words. In corrections, probation, parole, and treatment, so much of the work is built around conversation: in...


What Story Is Probation Telling? Pitts and Mozers, Part Two
#243
06/23/2026

In this episode of The Criminologist Podcast, we continue Part Two of my conversation with Stephen Pitts and Imants Mozers, authors of The Missing Story: Probation, Legitimacy, and the Battle for Public Understanding.

If you have not yet listened to Part One, released as Episode 241, I encourage you to go back and begin there. This second part picks up the conversation by going deeper into probation's identity, public legitimacy, leadership, and the stories the field tells — or fails to tell — about itself.

Stephen and Imants challenge us to think about why probation cannot simply assume its...


EP 242: Responsivity in Action: LEGO®-Based Interventions with Dr. Jerrod Brown
#242
06/09/2026

In this episode of The Criminologist Podcast, we welcome back Dr. Jerrod Brown for a fascinating conversation on LEGO®-based interventions with justice-involved populations.

At first glance, LEGO® bricks may not seem like an obvious tool for probation, corrections, forensic mental health, or human services. But as Dr. Brown explains, structured LEGO®-based activities can provide a powerful, hands-on way to engage individuals who may struggle with traditional talk-based interventions.

This conversation explores the intersection of neurodisability, responsivity, trauma-informed practice, and skill development. Many justice-involved individuals experience challenges related to fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, traumatic bra...


EP 242: Responsivity in Action: LEGO®-Based Interventions with Dr. Jerrod Brown
#242
06/09/2026

In this episode of The Criminologist Podcast, we welcome back Dr. Jerrod Brown for a fascinating conversation on LEGO®-based interventions with justice-involved populations.

At first glance, LEGO® bricks may not seem like an obvious tool for probation, corrections, forensic mental health, or human services. But as Dr. Brown explains, structured LEGO®-based activities can provide a powerful, hands-on way to engage individuals who may struggle with traditional talk-based interventions.

This conversation explores the intersection of neurodisability, responsivity, trauma-informed practice, and skill development. Many justice-involved individuals experience challenges related to fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, traumatic bra...


The Missing Story: The Battle for Probation's Public Image with Stephen Pitts & Imants Mozers — Part One
#240
05/25/2026

*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-6980e079-2d08-832c-91e0-4a28660cace1-7" data-turn-id-container= "request-6980e079-2d08-832c-91e0-4a28660cace1-7" data-testid= "conversation-turn-638" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn= "assistant"> 🎙️ Episode Show Notes — Part One The Missing Story of Probation with Stephen Pitts & Imants Mozers

What is the story probation tells about itself?

And perhaps just as importantly…

What happens when probation does not tell that story clearly?

In this episode o...


Quantum Desistance: How to Shape Behavior Change One Week at a Time
#239
04/28/2026

What if the people you supervise aren't one fixed version of themselves… but multiple possible versions—each shaped by what gets reinforced over time?

In this episode, I introduce a practical way to think about behavior change in supervision—what I've been developing as Quantum Desistance.

This isn't about physics.
It's a lens.

A way to understand how change actually unfolds—not through one intervention, but through patterns that repeat, stabilize, and eventually become identity.

We build from what you already know:

The Risk-Need-Responsivity (RNR) model Desistance theory and identity...


EP 238: Making Good—and Staying Good | Paul Doke on Long-Term Desistance
#238
03/30/2026

In this episode of The Criminologist Podcast, host Joseph Arvidson is joined by Paul Doke, PhD candidate at Liverpool John Moores University, to explore one of the most overlooked questions in our field:

What does it take not just to desist from crime—but to stay desisting over time?

Building on Shadd Maruna's groundbreaking Liverpool Desistance Study, Paul's research—"Made Good and Stayed Good"—examines identity, recovery, and belonging among long-term members of Narcotics Anonymous who have sustained desistance from crime and substance use for 5, 10, even 40 years.

Together, Joseph and Paul explore:

Why th...


A TIDES Update & and R-N-R Remix with Brad Bogue!!!
#237
01/08/2026

After a brief production pause, The Criminologist Podcast returns with a powerful blend of updates and reflections — both current and classic!!!

In this episode, host Joseph Arvidson shares some exciting developments surrounding the ongoing implementation and development of the TIDES Supervision Model, including:

✅ Recent success rolling out TIDES with Partners in Behavioral Health in Minnesota
✅ Expansion of our training delivery options — now offering both in-person (3-day) and virtual formats for the Initial User Training
✅ The launch of our Train-the-Trainer (ToT) curriculum, designed to support internal agency capacity-building
✅ A heartfelt shoutout to Nicole Kimberley-St...


EP 236: Tech, Truth, and Transformation...A conversation with Kam Stevens!
#236
11/13/2025

In this powerful reunion episode, Kam Stevens returns to The Criminologist—not only as a global changemaker, but as a passionate advocate for lived experience, human dignity, and digital innovation in justice reform.

Since first joining us on Episode 40 nearly five years ago, Kam's journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. In this conversation, we explore his global justice work through the lens of digital equity, system transformation, and cultural healing. We talk about the evolving landscape of Justice 2.0, the power of elevating lived experience inside systems, and how Kam continues to champion trauma-informed, person-centered approaches to ch...


Becoming the Brave One: Amanda Carrasco on Surviving Trauma, Embracing Restorative Justice, and Reclaiming Her Voice
#235
10/11/2025

In this powerful episode of The Criminologist Podcast, Joseph Arvidson sits down with author, restorative justice advocate, and survivor Amanda Carrasco. Her debut memoir, Becoming the Brave One, chronicles her harrowing journey through childhood trauma, systemic injustice, and ultimately, transformation through healing and storytelling.

Amanda opens up about the writing process, and why accountability, not punishment, should be the cornerstone of a truly restorative justice system. Her work challenges practitioners, policymakers, and survivors alike to imagine a world where courage and compassion coexist.

If you've ever wondered what it means to not just survive, but...


Killer in the Family: Understanding Intra-Familial Homicide with Dr. Jerrod Brown
#5
08/23/2025

In this gripping episode, we welcome back frequent guest and forensic mental health expert Dr. Jerrod Brown to explore the devastating phenomenon of intra-familial homicide—when murder occurs within the home, at the hands of someone trusted and loved.

From uxoricide (husbands killing wives) to parricide (children murdering parents), these crimes tear at the fabric of our social and emotional understanding. Why do they happen? How can we spot the warning signs? And what role does neurocriminology play in helping us make sense of the unthinkable?

🎙️ Dr. Brown brings insight from his recent media appearance in Peopl...


EP 233: From Minnesota to Montevideo: Fulbright Reflections and RNR in Motion
#233
08/02/2025

In this quick-hit mini-sode, host Joe Arvidson checks in with listeners to share exciting updates from The Criminologist universe!

Joe talks about prepping for his upcoming Fulbright Specialist assignment in Uruguay—where he'll be training corrections professionals in evidence-based practices like the Risk-Need-Responsivity model, trauma-informed care, and desistance theory.

He also reflects on summer podcast plans, international connections, and what to expect in upcoming episodes. It's a brief message, but packed with gratitude, global perspective, and a sneak peek into what's next.

🌎 Montevideo is calling.
🎧 Tune in now, share with a colleague, and stay...


Episode 232 | Beyond Supervision: A Conversation with Laura Elliott
#232
07/01/2025

🎙️ Episode 232 | Beyond Supervision: A Conversation with Laura Elliott

This week, we're joined by Laura Elliott, Assistant Director of Community Corrections in Floyd County, Indiana—and the creative force behind the Beyond Supervision newsletter that's sparking fresh dialogue in the field.

In this thoughtful and energizing episode, Laura shares her journey from front-line supervision to leadership, and the values that guide her work every step of the way. We explore the tools she champions—including GPS monitoring and peer recovery support—as well as the relationships and moments that keep her grounded in the why of this work.<...


The Core 4: Redefining Social Support in Community Supervision, with Shawn Trusten and Phillip Galli!
#231
06/10/2025

In this episode of The Criminologist Podcast, host Joseph Arvidson is joined by Shawn Trusten and Phil Galli, co-creators of the Core 4 Survey and Intervention, an innovative framework that breaks down social support into four key domains: Instrumental, Expressive, Perceived, and Received.

Built on years of case management experience and field testing, the Core 4 model helps practitioners move beyond the binary "pro-social/anti-social" lens and instead gain a nuanced, actionable understanding of the social networks that influence client behavior. This episode explores how the Core 4 tool bridges assessment and intervention—serving as a roadmap for client-centered case pl...


EP 230: The Sociology of Survival...A Conversation with Dr. Charlie Barnao
#229
05/13/2025

Episode Summary: In a justice system often obsessed with risk scores and compliance checklists, what happens when we stop and ask a deeper question: How have you survived?

In this powerful episode, Joseph Arvidson sits down with Dr. Charlie Barnao, sociologist, ethnographer, and professor at the University of Palermo, to explore the hidden strength behind the stories of justice-involved individuals.

Dr. Barnao spent 15 years living in a halfway house—not observing from the outside, but embedded in the day-to-day realities of those navigating the margins. His work on the Sociology of Survival offers a critical le...


Supervision in the Digital Age: A Global Conversation with Professor K. Jaishankar
#229
04/29/2025

Episode Summary: As our world becomes more digital, the work of probation and parole professionals becomes more complex. In this episode, Joseph Arvidson welcomes Professor K. Jaishankar, the globally recognized founder of Cyber Criminology, to explore what justice supervision looks like in an era of cybercrime, digital victimization, and technological surveillance.

Professor Jaishankar, Principal Director of the International Institute of Justice & Police Sciences (India), offers powerful insights into his groundbreaking Space Transition Theory, the psychology of cyber-offending, and how justice systems worldwide can better adapt to the challenges—and possibilities—of the digital age.

Together, they...


EP 228: Gut Instincts: The Brain, the Body, and Building Resilience in Justice-Involved Populations
#228
04/19/2025

Episode Description (Libsyn Format):

What does the gut have to do with criminal behavior, cognitive flexibility, or the ability to navigate supervision successfully?

In this compelling episode of The Criminologist Podcast, host Joseph Arvidson welcomes back Dr. Jerrod Brown—expert in neurocriminology, behavioral health, and forensic psychology—for a deep dive into the emerging science of the gut-brain connection and its powerful implications for justice-involved individuals.

Together, we explore how gut health, inflammation, and microbiota imbalances can influence cognition, mood regulation, and decision-making—core elements of resilience and responsivity. This conversation challenges us to rec...


EP 227: From Crime to Connection....Arman Vestad on Identity, Resilience, and the Power of Social Support
#227
03/29/2025

What does true transformation look like—from the inside out?

In this compelling episode of The Criminologist, host Joseph Arvidson sits down with Arman Vestad—a former justice-involved individual turned award-winning keynote speaker, trainer, and advocate for change. Arman's life story is one of remarkable resilience, identity transformation, and the social connections that made desistance not just possible—but sustainable.

From his lived experience in the criminal justice system to his international Tour de Wave project—where he runs across cities, smiling and connecting with strangers—Arman's message is clear: we all have the power to create...


EP 226: From Incarceration to Inspiration...The "Why Not Mindset" with Rustin Pangburn.
#226
03/12/2025

🎙️ From Incarceration to Inspiration: The Why Not Mindset with Rustin Pangburn

Description:
What does it take to break free from the past and build a future full of purpose? In this powerful episode of The Criminologist podcast, we sit down with Rustin Pangburn—motivational speaker, justice reform advocate, and founder of WhyNotMindset.net. Rustin's journey from serving a 60-month sentence to becoming an over-the-road truck driver and an advocate for second chances is nothing short of inspiring.

Together, we explore:
✅ The challenges of reentry and the first steps to reintegration
✅ How Rustin reshaped hi...


EP 225: From Probation to Podcasting... Lucy Bentley on Justice, Lived Experience, and stories that matter
#225
03/01/2025

This week on The Criminologist podcast, we welcome the brilliant and boundary-pushing Lucy Bentley—a former probation officer turned podcast producer who's redefining how we talk about justice, rehabilitation, and lived experience.

Lucy's career spans frontline work in probation, prison services, and recovery programs, where she championed strengths-based, trauma-informed approaches for individuals navigating the criminal justice system. Now, she's bringing those same insights—and a touch of humor—to the microphone.

In this episode, we explore:
✅ Lessons from the field – What Lucy's podcasting self would tell her former probation officer self
✅ Lived experience in media – T...


EP 224: : A Desistance Christmas Carol: Lessons in Change and Belonging!
#224
01/21/2025

In this very special episode of The Criminologist Podcast, we bring you a transformative tale inspired by Charles Dickens' timeless classic, A Christmas Carol. Through the story of Ebenezer Rouge, a man entrenched in harm and isolation, we explore the powerful journey of desistance from crime-revealing how change is not only possible...but essential.

Guided by the Ghost of Desistance Past, Present, and Yet to Come, Ebenezer confronts the ripple effects of his actions, the potential for identity transformation, and the importance of belonging and generativity in building new a life.  Along the way, we will uncover t...


Pioneering Probation: Veronica Cunningham on APPA's 50th Anniversary and Future Vision
#224
01/11/2025

In this episode of The Criminologist Podcast, we welcome back Veronica Cunningham, Executive Director of the American Probation and Parole Association (APPA).  With over nine years of transformative leadership, Veronica shares her vision for APPA as it celebrates 50 years of advancing community corrections. 

We dive into the exciting initiatives planned for APPA's 50th Anniversary, including year-long celebrations and the landmark Summer Training Institute in New York City! Veronica also provides a sneak peek into the upcoming Winter Training Institute in Las Vegas, offering highlights of keynotes, workshops, and opportunities for professional growth. 

Our conversation explores APP...


EP 222: Inside Juvie, Paul MacNamara's Eye-Opening Journey Through Juvenile Detention.
#222
12/10/2024

Welcome to a special American Probation and Parole Association episode of The Criminologist Podcast, brought to you by their International Relations Committee!  In this installment, we reconnect with celebrated author and educator Paul MacNamara, who brings his unique perspectives to the podcast once again.  Known for his captivating storytelling and unflinching insights, Paul delves into the themes of his latest book, Inside Juvie: A Teachers story, a powerful exploration of life inside Australia's juvenile detention system.

Drawing on his years as a teacher in correctional centers, Paul takes us behind the scenes of a world rarely seen. Thr...


P 221: Creativity, Connection, and Change: How Edd Flanigan and John Reed Inspire Desistance
#221
11/26/2024

Welcome  to Episode 221 of The Criminologist podcast! In this powerful episode, we reconnect with two incredible voices in the criminal justice reform space-Edd Flanagan and John Reed. Together, they share their transformative journey's, ground breaking work, and their ongoing mission to inspire hope and change within the criminal justice system. 

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

Edd Flanagan's Story: After 20 years of imprisonment and 35 years of addiction, Edd is now 13 years into his recovery. Through his Choices and Chances program, he uses his artistic talents and lived experience to help others embark on their own jo...


BEST OF! Exploring the TIDES Supervsion Model! Trauma Informed, Desistance Focused, Neuro-Science backed!!
#220
11/13/2024

Episode Description: 

Welcome to a special "Best Of" episode of The Criminologist Podcast, we take a deep dive into the TIDES Supervision Model---A pioneering approach that brings together Trauma Informed Awareness, Desistance Theory, and Neuroscience to create a meaningful, transformative, client supervision. Co-created by Joseph Arvidson and Nicole Kimberley-Staeheli, TIDES redefines supervision byshifting the focus from simply managing risk, to promoting real change and positive identity transformation for clients.

This episode features powerful insights from past conversations with experts who inspire and inform the TIDES approach. 

Nicole Kimberley-Staeheli on the profound impact of trauma an...


EP 219: False Confessions, Neurocriminology, and the Hiden Impact of Nutrition on Justice, with Dr. Jerrod Brown!
#219
10/30/2024

Episode Summary: 

In this thought provoking episode, host Joseph Arvidson sits down with Dr. Jerrod Brown to explore the complex factors contributing to false confessions and wrongful convictions. Dr. Brown, an expert in neurocriminology, offers insights into how various mental and physical health factors-such as untreated nutritional deficiencies and cognitive impairments-impact behavior, decision making, and the reliability of client interviews.  Together, Joseph and Dr. Brown unpack the vulnerabilities that can make certain individuals more susceptible to false confessions, from neurodevelopmental disorders and high levels of suggestibility to external pressures in the interview room.

This episode ch...


EP 217: Transforming Probation in Turks and Caicos...A Conversation with Jaron Harvey!
#217
10/15/2024

Welcome to a special edition of The Criminologist podcast, brought to you in partnership with the American Probation and Parole Association (APPA) and their International Relations Committee. In this episode, host Joseph Arvidson interviews Jaron Harvey, Director of Rehabilitation and Community Supervision in Turks and Caicos, to discuss the innovative reforms reshaping probation in the Caribbean.

Join us as Jaron shares how his department is leading the charge with the implementation of the Risk-Needs-Responsivity framework, with the intent of enhancing rehabilitative outcomes. Learn about their implementation of the STICS model, a groundbreaking cognitive behavioral approach to changing...


EP 216: Unlocking the Power of Belonging with Gaelin Elmore!
#216
10/01/2024

In this powerful episode of The Criminologist podcast, host Joseph Arvidson sits down with Gaelin Elmore, former NFL player, foster youth system survivor, and now a champion for the power of belonging! Gaelin's story is one of overcoming adversity, from navigating the foster care system to making it to the NFL, and eventually finding his true calling-helping others discover the life changing power of belonging.

We explore Gaelin's personal journey of resilience and transformation, linking it to the TIDES Supervision Model's key pillars of change...Self Regulation, Identity, Resilience, and Social Support. Learn how belonging shaped his...


EP 215: Empowering Change with Annie Stocksdale-A forward thinking approach to high risk supervision.
#215
09/18/2024

In this episode of The Criminologist Podcast, we sit down with Annie Stocksdale, a forward thinking probation officer who is redefining how high risk supervision can empower clients toward lasting change.  Annie shares her innovative approach to managing high-risk clients, demonstrating that even within the boundaries of home confinement, there is potential for growth and rehabilitation. By fostering empathy and focusing on her client's long term transformation, Annie exemplifies the type of leadership needed to move Corrections into the 21st century. 

Annie also highlights  her experience at the recent American Probation and Parole Association (APPA) Training Institute in...


EP 214: Revolutionzing Corrections. A Conversation with Brad Bogue and Guy Bourgon.
#215
09/05/2024

In this insightful episode, host Joseph Arvidson reconnects with two pioneers in the field of Corrections, Brad Bogue and Guy Bourgon! Brad and Guy have had a profound influence on the development and implementation of evidence based practices within the criminal justice system.  Both of these legends have contributed decades of research, innovation, and practical application that continue to shape modern correctional practices. 

The trio discusses the critical evolution of EBP in Corrections, their shared experiences of decades in the field, and the ever-hopeful future of evidence based practices. They also explore the innovate TIDES (Trauma Informed DE...


EP 213: Reflecting on the Past to Shape the Future...Insights from The Criminologist Podcast.
#213
08/21/2024

In this special solo episode of #TheCriminologistPodcast, host Joseph Arvidson takes listeners on a journey of reflection and continuous learning.  With a rich mix of personal insights and lessons drawn from past episodes,  this installment delves into the power of looking back to inform our future in the field of criminal justice and human services. Explore the significance of trauma informed care, desistance theory, and the human element of probation work...all while considering how pop culture like Breaking Bad and Mindhunter  intersects with these themes. 

Host Joseph Arvidson also teases exciting upcoming content, including a dual inte...


EP 212: Resilience and Hope...Rick Mereness' Path to Recovery
#212
08/06/2024

In this special episode of The Criminologist Podcast, we are honored to welcome Rick Mereness, a long-time listener of the show, and fellow Minnesotan! Rick shares his incredible story of overcoming addiction, to celebrating 35 years of sobriety. His journey is a powerful testament to the strength of resilience hope, and the human spirit. 

Rick opens up about his difficult childhood, the lack of social supports that influenced his early foray into alcohol and drugs use, and the years-long addiction that followed. He candidly discusses how his third trip through drug and alcohol treatment finally led to lasting s...


EP 211: Tailoring Justice-Insights from Pakistan's Arshad Mahmood!!!
#211
07/20/2024

In  this enlightening episode of The Criminologist Podcast, host Joseph Arvidson sits down with Arshad Mahmood, a seasoned criminal justice professional with over 20 years of experience. Arshad has worked with various national and int4ernatiiona organizations, including the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund (UNICEF), Penal Reform International (PR) and the International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL) in Pakistan.

Arshad shares his journey from heading the Punjab Probation and Parole Service to becoming a consultant, specializing in probation, juvenile justice, and protecting vulnerable populations.  His extensive background in po...