The Prison Officer Podcast

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 overcoming difficult leaders, understanding rehabilitation, or addressing misconceptions about incarcerated populations, the Prison Officer Podcast provides valuable perspectives from professionals in the field.

Last refreshed: August 18th, 2025 at 6:22 AM ⓘ

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Episodes

3: Mental and Physical Preparedness

Send us a text An article came out this week on ESPN about UFC fighter Anthony Smith. A UFC heavyweight, he is probably one of the most in-shape people you could meet. That’s why his comments about fighting an intruder in his house are enlightening. Smith described the fight as “terrifying” and “one of the toughest fights he has ever had.” I will argue that it was not one of the toughest fights he has ever had, it was one of the toughest fight he was not mentally prepared for. He has been in man...

Apr 09, 2020•7 min•Season 1Ep. 3

2: How I became a Prison Officer

Send us a text My personal journey in Corrections, and how it rewarded me and changed me. From the ancient walls of Missouri State Penitentiary to the craziness of working a mental health ward at the Federal Medical Center in Springfield, MO. Finding Your Purpose: Crafting a Personal Vision Statement to Guide Your Life and Career! by Michael Cantrell Keys to Your New Career: Information and Guidance to Get Hired and Be Successful as a Correctional or Detention Officer by Michael Cantrell Support...

Apr 01, 2020•22 min•Season 1Ep. 2

1: Introduction to the Prison Officer Podcast

Send us a text A quick introduction about what to expect from the Prison Officer Podcast and a look into how I started in Corrections...almost by accident. Support the show Contact us: mike@theprisonofficer.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePrisonOfficer Take care of each other and Be Safe behind those walls and fences!...

Mar 30, 2020•7 min•Season 1Ep. 1

Welcome to The Prison Officer Podcast

Send us a text I know the podcast has been around a while, but Apple podcast wants a trailer....drop me a note and tell me what you think. Hello and welcome to The Prison Officer Podcast. My name is Michael Cantrell and I spent over 28 years working in some of this country’s toughest prisons. Most of you don’t know, but over 500,000 people work in jails, correctional centers, and prisons in the United States. Those correctional workers walk into a manmade hell each day and face some of the tough...

Mar 28, 2020•1 min

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