The Learning Lab is a series of 60 minute interviews with ILEETA Conference presenters discussing the key teaching point takeaways from their conference presentation. These interviews are packed with great content and created to serve as weekly professional development training for ILEETA members.
…
continue reading
ILEETA Podcasts
The Prison Officer Podcast is a place where prison officers and correctional staff share their experiences, discuss leadership, cope with stress, and learn survival strategies for one of the toughest careers out there. Hosted by Michael Cantrell, this podcast delves into the lives, dreams, and challenges faced by those who work inside the walls of our nation’s prisons. It features interviews, insights, and discussions related to the unique and demanding world of corrections. Whether it’s ove ...
…
continue reading
1
117: We Rewind 2025 And Share What’s Coming Next
33:25
33:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
33:25Five years in, the mission feels sharper than ever: equip correctional professionals with tools, mindset, and purpose that hold up under real pressure. We look back on a year of travel and training, thank the partners who help us serve, and pull together the most impactful moments from conversations that changed how we read risk, teach skills, and …
…
continue reading
The job doesn’t wait for your feelings to catch up. That’s why we unpack a clear, practical way to stay steady under pressure—using Stoicism as a daily tool for safer shifts, better decisions, and a healthier mind. We get honest about chaos on the unit, the pull to react fast, and how a few disciplined choices turn tension into control. We break do…
…
continue reading
1
#ILEETALive with Raul Rivas - Detective, SWAT Officer, Mental Health Advocate talks about training, the Pulse Night Club incident, and long term mental health
1:09:25
1:09:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:09:25Send us a textBy ILEETA
…
continue reading
1
115: From Rookie to Rank - Interview w/Matthew Hyde
1:07:44
1:07:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:07:44Leadership in corrections doesn't come from a badge or title—it emerges from integrity, trust, and the willingness to shield your team during difficult times. Matthew Hyde, leadership strategist and author of "From Rookie to Rank," shares his remarkable journey from new correctional officer to CERT Commander without formal rank. Matthew's story beg…
…
continue reading
1
114: 2025 MCA/MPPOA Fall Conference in Branson, MO
49:45
49:45
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
49:45I saw a man once walk out of the Missouri State Penitentiary after three decades with a few dollars and no plan. I remember that moment—and this is why I am glad Missouri has set out to build something better. Come behind the scenes with us at the MCA/MPPOA fall conference for a candid tour of what’s actually working: “soft handoffs” between instit…
…
continue reading
1
113: Beyond Toxicity: Building Healthier Correctional Workplaces - Interview w/Josh Ryle
1:15:24
1:15:24
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:15:24Joshua Ryle brings over two decades of corrections experience to this deeply insightful conversation about the hidden psychological patterns that shape corrections culture. From his early days at the Tennessee Department of Corrections to his current role as a training sergeant, Ryle has observed firsthand how the corrections environment creates be…
…
continue reading
1
112: Security, Innovation, and Leadership in American Prisons - Interview w/Pete Bludworth
1:19:56
1:19:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:19:56What does it take to navigate the most dangerous prisons in America while maintaining both safety and humanity? Pete Bloodworth's extraordinary 35-year journey through corrections offers profound insights into this question. From his early days as a Marine Corps sniper to becoming one of corrections' most influential tactical innovators, Bloodworth…
…
continue reading
1
Episode 111: Knowledge, Willingness, Courage: What Officers Need From Leaders
34:07
34:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
34:07What makes a truly effective correctional leader? In this thought-provoking episode, Michael Cantrell draws from decades of experience to unpack the three essential qualities officers desperately want from their supervisors: knowledge, willingness, and courage. Correctional officers seek leaders who possess deep knowledge about policies, case law, …
…
continue reading
1
110: The Silent Service: Finding Purpose in a Life of Sacrifice - Interview w/LTC Dave Grossman
1:07:12
1:07:12
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:07:12Lieutenant Colonel Dave Grossman brings decades of expertise to this powerful conversation about the psychology of violence, trauma response, and the vital role corrections professionals play in society. Drawing from his groundbreaking research that shaped books like "On Combat" and "On Killing," Grossman frames correctional officers as society's e…
…
continue reading
1
109: Rethinking Correctional Training: Objective-Based Training with Myles Cook
1:07:52
1:07:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:07:52What if everything we thought we knew about training correctional officers was based on flawed assumptions? In this eye-opening conversation with Myles Cook, we explore how questioning basic training objectives can transform outcomes across corrections. Miles brings 15 years of diverse experience spanning corrections, patrol, narcotics, investigati…
…
continue reading
1
Re-Broadcast - ILEETA Live: An interview with Michael Cantrell and Gary York
1:04:24
1:04:24
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:04:24This is a Re-Broadcast of ILEETA Live! Yyou can find more episodes here: / @ileeta Two nationally recognized voices in corrections. One powerful conversation. ILEETA Live is back July 16 at 7:30PM CST. This month: Michael Cantrell and Gary York—both published authors and respected subject matter experts—join us to talk leadership, resilience, and t…
…
continue reading
1
#ILEETALive - July 2025 with Guests Michael Cantrell and Gary York
1:03:12
1:03:12
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:03:12Send us a textBy ILEETA
…
continue reading
1
27: ILEETA Learning Lab: Jason Sery - More Than A Cop
1:02:08
1:02:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:02:08Send us a textBy ILEETA
…
continue reading
1
108: Can Smart Technology Create Second Chances? Interview w/Alisha Shoates James
54:28
54:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
54:28What happens when a police officer's career evolves into revolutionizing corrections technology? Alisha Shoates-James takes us on her remarkable journey from patrolling Nashville streets to developing innovative tablet solutions that transform prison environments nationwide. Drawing from her seven years in law enforcement and extensive experience a…
…
continue reading
1
26: ILEETA Learning Lab: Brian Smith Training Law Enforcement Families Members and The Community
59:37
59:37
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
59:37Send us a textBy ILEETA
…
continue reading
1
107: Inside the American Jail System: Leadership & Innovation - Interview w/Shaun Klucznik
1:06:03
1:06:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:06:03When was the last time you heard a positive story about what happens inside America's jails? For most of us, these facilities only make headlines when something goes wrong—an escape, a use-of-force incident, or a facility failure. But as Major Shaun Klucznik reveals in this compelling conversation, corrections professionals save lives, change futur…
…
continue reading
1
Re-Broadcast - The Silence Crisis in Corrections w/Michael Cantrell - Independent Voter Podcast
33:10
33:10
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
33:10This is a Re-Broadcast of The Silence Crisis in Corrections with Michael Cantrell from The Independent Voter Podcast - https://olasmedia.com/blogs/behind-the-bars-beyond-the-badge-the-hidden-struggles-of-correctional-officers Think the justice system only affects the incarcerated? Think again. In this episode of the How It Really Works series of th…
…
continue reading
1
25: ILEETA Learning Lab: Chris Enquist - Functional Feedback - Coaching to Success
1:02:09
1:02:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:02:09Send us a textBy ILEETA
…
continue reading
1
24: ILEETA Learning Lab: Jason Mazeski Discovering Your Personal Teaching Foundation- Starting on the X
1:01:00
1:01:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:01:00Send us a text In this ILEETA Learning Lab episode, Jason Mazeski shares his framework for developing a Personal Teaching Foundation by “starting on the X.” Drawing from his work as NYPD’s lead curriculum developer and his master’s in adult education, Jason guides instructors through four foundational elements: understanding oneself as a learner an…
…
continue reading
1
106: Jujitsu, Justice, and Leadership - Interview w/Bryan Antonelli
1:12:15
1:12:15
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:12:15Brian Antonelli, known throughout corrections as "the fixer," pulls back the curtain on what it takes to restore order in some of America's most challenging prisons. Drawing from 32 years of distinguished service in federal and state corrections, Antonelli shares candid stories about transforming troubled facilities like USP Hazleton, where he arri…
…
continue reading
1
23: ILEETA Learning Lab: Andy Casavant Robert Peel's 9 Policing Principles - Are They Applicable to 21st Century Policing
59:44
59:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
59:44Send us a text In this ILEETA Learning Lab episode, retired Army Lt. Col. and Florida Sheriff’s Captain Andy Casavante joins host Brian Willis to explore Sir Robert Peel’s Nine Principles of Policing and their relevance today. From ethics and crime prevention to community engagement and leadership, Casavante reflects on timeless lessons that still …
…
continue reading
1
22: ILEETA Learning Lab: Chip Huth - 7 Traits of Effective Leaders
1:05:14
1:05:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:05:14Send us a text In this ILEETA Learning Lab episode, Major Chip Huth shares seven essential traits of effective leaders, beginning with the foundational principle of truly seeing people. Drawing from decades of experience in tactical operations and leadership, Chip explores humility, integrity, trust-building, and accountability. This conversation i…
…
continue reading
1
105: Keeping Your Cell Extraction from Going Viral on YouTube - Interview w/Tim Fasnacht
1:08:42
1:08:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:08:42The shocking disparity between training requirements—four weeks to become a correctional officer versus sixteen weeks to become a hairdresser in Washington State—highlights a systemic problem in how we prepare staff to handle some of society's most challenging individuals. Fosnott describes his earliest experiences, including being thrown into supe…
…
continue reading
1
21: ILEETA Learning Lab: Stephanie Conn - Increasing Resilience in Police
1:05:23
1:05:23
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:05:23Send us a textBy ILEETA
…
continue reading
1
104: Recent Training Spotlight - and A Special Announcement by Michael Cantrell
36:36
36:36
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
36:36Michael Cantrell returns with a passionate exploration of the evolving corrections landscape, sharing significant professional milestones while introducing his upcoming new book, "Power Skills: Emotional Intelligence and Soft Skills for Correctional Officers, Public Service, and Beyond." The episode begins with exciting news about Cantrell's appoin…
…
continue reading
1
103: The Human Stories of Military Justice and Rehabilitation - Interview w/James Cummings
1:09:05
1:09:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:09:05From the corridors of military prisons to the unique challenges of civilian life, our guest Jimmy Cummings shares an extraordinary journey filled with unexpected twists and turns. A retired Marine with a commanding presence in military corrections, Jimmy opens up about his early struggles in Scranton, Pennsylvania, that led him to the Marines, meet…
…
continue reading
1
102: Leadership Strategies and Fostering a Culture of Integrity - Interview w/Chris McConnell
58:30
58:30
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
58:30From military operations in the Gulf to the corridors of correctional facilities, Chris McConnell's journey is a narrative of resilience and leadership. Growing up in a law enforcement family in Pennsylvania, Chris was destined for a life of service. After serving as an airborne infantryman in Operation Desert Shield Storm, he transitioned into a c…
…
continue reading
1
101: Transforming Prisons: Innovation and Rehabilitation in Belize - Interview w/Dr. Jarrod Sadulski
53:11
53:11
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
53:11Discover the transformative world of Central American prisons with Dr. Jarrod Sadulski, whose journey from the Coast Guard to criminology and federal law enforcement has led him to the heart of prison reform in Belize. As we navigate through his insights, you'll uncover the stark realities and surprising successes within the Belize Central Prison, …
…
continue reading
1
100: Discover the Secrets of Human Behavior - Interview w/Greg Williams & Brian Marren
1:22:43
1:22:43
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:22:43Discover the secrets of human behavior in high-stress environments with our special guests, Greg Williams and Brian Marren from Arcadia Congerati. These experts, known for their work in developing the Marine Corps' Combat Hunter program, join us to celebrate the 100th episode of the Prison Officer Podcast. They offer unique insights into the parall…
…
continue reading
1
20: ILEETA Learning Lab: Bill Reilly Get Promoted - Applying Instructor Skills at Promotion Assessments
1:00:09
1:00:09
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:00:09Send us a textBy ILEETA
…
continue reading
1
99: Honoring a Legacy in Corrections - Interview w/Conor Fredericks
1:05:58
1:05:58
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:05:58Join us for an insightful conversation with Connor Fredericks, a South Carolina Department of Corrections CERT Commander. In our exploration of corrections, we focus on the unique challenges correctional officers face, particularly those in CERT positions. Connor's career shift from night shift police work to corrections presents a compelling narra…
…
continue reading
1
98: Transforming County Jails: Leadership, Innovation, and Second Chances - Interview w/Justin Hall
1:05:00
1:05:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:05:00Ever wondered what it takes to manage a county jail? Join me, Michael Cantrell, as I sit down with Justin Hall, the elected jailer from Nelson County, Kentucky, who has spent nearly two decades in the corrections field. We'll uncover how he navigated his way from the Hardin County Detention Center to overseeing operations in his hometown. Learn abo…
…
continue reading
1
19: ILEETA Learning Lab: Billy Etheredge Insights Into Filling Big Shoes and Enhancing the Culture of Learning in an Agency
1:02:57
1:02:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:02:57Send us a text itle: Transitioning into Leadership: Creating a Collaborative Firearms Training Culture Host: Brian Willis, Deputy Executive Director, ILEETA Guest: Billy Ethridge, Training Sergeant Episode Overview: In this episode of the ILEETA Learning Lab podcast, host Brian Willis interviews Training Sergeant Billy Ethridge about his transition…
…
continue reading
1
97: Guard: Duty, Sacrifice, and Leadership - Interview w/Phillip W Parker
1:27:37
1:27:37
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:27:37Philip W. Parker, former warden of Kentucky State Penitentiary, joins us to share his remarkable story from rural Kentucky roots to overseeing maximum-security operations. Listen as Philip recounts his unique career trajectory, beginning with a chance encounter while teaching karate that led him to the world of corrections. As we walk through the c…
…
continue reading
1
18: ILEETA Learning Lab: Richard Hough Use of Force U.K. - Lessons for U.S.?
1:03:55
1:03:55
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:03:55Send us a text In this episode of the ILEETA Learning Lab Podcast, host Brian Willis interviews Dr. Richard Huff, an expert on use-of-force practices with four decades of experience in law enforcement. The discussion centers on comparing use-of-force policies and practices between the United States and the United Kingdom, providing valuable insight…
…
continue reading
1
96: Best of the Prison Officer - The Basics - Success in Corrections
25:51
25:51
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
25:51In this episode of the basics, I talk about what it takes to have Success in Corrections. The Basic, common sense attributes and work habits of a good correctional officer. Listen as I talk about Correctional Basics every rookie should know, and every veteran officer should already be doing...who knows...everyone needs a refresher sometimes. Keys t…
…
continue reading
1
17: ILEETA Learning Lab: Laura King Leading the Police Family - Lessons in Leadership to Use at Home
59:50
59:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
59:50Send us a text Episode Overview: In this episode of the ILEETA Learning Lab Podcast, Chief Laura King of the McHenry County Conservation District shares insights from her leadership journey and discusses her class, "Leading the Police Family: Lessons in Leadership to Use at Home." Laura draws on her 24 years of law enforcement experience, her role …
…
continue reading
1
95: Reflections on Correctional Leadership and Growth: A Year in Review - 2024
35:14
35:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:14Unlock the secrets of successful correctional leadership as we recap an incredible year for the Prison Officer Podcast. We've reached new heights by launching on YouTube, and growing our audience worldwide. I tackle pressing issues like staffing challenges, emphasizing the crucial role of a positive workplace culture that prioritizes safety, leader…
…
continue reading
1
16: ILEETA Learning Lab: Alexandra Nelson - CAN YOU HEAR ME NOW__ Communicating in Crisis
1:02:04
1:02:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:02:04Send us a textBy ILEETA
…
continue reading
1
94: Exploring the Path of an Investigative Agent - Interview w/Steve Hansen
54:32
54:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
54:32Former special investigative agent Steve Hansen joins us to shed light on a career filled with intense experiences and unique insights into the world of federal corrections. From his humble beginnings in a small Iowa town to navigating the complexities of federal prisons, Steve's story is one of dedication and resilience. Steve's career journey is …
…
continue reading
1
15: ILEETA Learning Lab: Dan Greene Beyond the Basics - The Art and Science of Retention
1:02:47
1:02:47
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:02:47Send us a textBy ILEETA
…
continue reading
1
93: Leadership and Innovation in Correctional Training - Interview w/Michael Warren
1:07:19
1:07:19
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:07:19Inspired by his grandfather, Michael Warren's foray into law enforcement was destined from the start, rooted in a rich family tradition of public service. Michael, the Director of Training for Command Presence and host of the Faces of Leadership podcast, joins us to share his unique journey. Michael brings a treasure trove of experiences that illum…
…
continue reading
1
14: ILEETA Learning Lab: Stefan Bjes Responding to Autism - A Law Enforcement Approach
59:33
59:33
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
59:33Send us a textBy ILEETA
…
continue reading
1
92: Transforming Challenges into Opportunities: Thriving in Corrections
37:16
37:16
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
37:16What if I told you that the toughest challenges in the corrections field could turn into your greatest opportunities for growth? I explore my journey through the demanding landscape of corrections and shed light on a world that requires incredible resilience and determination. A recent e-mail from a correctional officer grappling with the aftermath…
…
continue reading
1
13: ILEETA Learning Lab: Lou Ann Hamblin - Instructional Leadership:Training For Our Future
59:58
59:58
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
59:58Send us a textBy ILEETA
…
continue reading
1
91: Can We Talk?...About Mastering De-Escalation Techniques in Corrections
30:02
30:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:02What if the key to managing conflicts in corrections is as simple as mastering the art of listening? Join us as we examine the evolution of de-escalation techniques, starting from the era of "verbal judo" to contemporary methods centered on active listening and emotional regulation. You'll learn why truly hearing and understanding the other person …
…
continue reading
1
12: ILEETA Learning Lab: Noel Aher - Maximizing Minimalism
1:02:23
1:02:23
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:02:23Send us a textBy ILEETA
…
continue reading
1
90: From Baseball Dreams to Correctional Teams - Interview w/Adam Dennis
55:46
55:46
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
55:46Meet Adam Dennis, a 28-year law enforcement/corrections veteran, who shares his early days, influenced by his father's advice and his brother's positive experiences, as he navigates through a career filled with challenges and unexpected culture shocks. From playing college baseball to earning a criminology degree, Adam's journey is inspiring and ey…
…
continue reading
1
89: New Perspectives, New Solutions: Insights from Missouri's Fall MCA/MPPOA Conference
1:13:11
1:13:11
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:13:11Join us live from the Missouri Correctional Association and Missouri Probation and Parole Officers Association fall conference at the stunning Lodge of the Four Seasons in Lake of the Ozarks. Learn about suicide prevention from the critical support provided by the 988 national suicide hotline. Hear inspiring conversations with Major Ognenovski from…
…
continue reading
1
11: ILEETA Learning Lab: Dan Cotton - Gun Fighting - From Flat Range to Force on Force
1:04:50
1:04:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:04:50Send us a textBy ILEETA
…
continue reading