Inmates Launch Innovative Podcast from Behind Bars
BISMARCK, ND — In a unique initiative at the North Dakota State Penitentiary, inmates Antonio “Dread” Stridiron and Zach Schmidkunz have taken to podcasting with their show, "Chainz 2 Changed." Their aim is to provide insight into prison life and prepare fellow inmates—and the wider community—for life beyond bars.
Broadcasting from a soundproofed cell, the duo engages in real conversations about personal experiences and rehabilitation. Stridiron emphasizes the importance of sharing their narratives: “We had to find a way to get our stories out to the community.” They have already attracted a listener base spanning 49 states and 38 countries.
Initially skeptical, Colby Braun, the director of Corrections and Rehabilitation, now supports their efforts, believing the podcast can foster hope and public safety. The show has even featured notable guests, including a former lieutenant governor, aimed at shedding light on life behind and beyond prison walls.
Both men, having served lengthy sentences for serious crimes, express that their podcast allows for deeper understanding of their true selves and encourages younger inmates to seek out available support systems.
As innovative as it is inspiring, "Chainz 2 Changed" serves as a voice for those often overlooked, highlighting a journey of transformation and hope.
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