Stephen Smalzel-Episode 2 Inside the Van: Building Freedom on Four Wheels
Release Date: 06/23/2025
Locked Up, Episode 5: Healthcare Behind Bars – The Reality Inside TDC
Jim Bratton Podcast
In this powerful episode of Locked Up, Robert Serna shares a raw, first-person account of his encounters with the Texas prison medical system. From initial intake exams to emergency injuries and being denied basic care, Robert reveals a system defined more by neglect than compassion. His story exposes the harsh truth behind the myth of “free healthcare in prison.”
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Full Circle: Cruz Cortez and the Fabric of Galveston
Jim Bratton Podcast
In this episode of the Jim Bratton Podcast, we sit down with Galveston haberdasher Cruz Cortez, a man whose life and business have come full circle on the very block where he started in 1968. Cruz shares heartfelt stories from decades in retail, lessons in style and mentorship, and the power of persistence. His energy is contagious, his memory sharp, and his shop is more than just a store—it's a community institution Cruz Cortez Clothiers. 2227 Postoffice Street. Galveston, Texas 77550. . (409) 763-9600 · .
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Locked Up: Episode 4 -Violence Was the Rule-
Jim Bratton Podcast
In this gripping episode of Locked Up, Robert Serna shares a raw, unfiltered look at the brutal reality of prison violence—from call-outs to calculated fights and the guards who enabled them. He reflects on how violence wasn't just expected but required. This is a powerful conversation about how prison life rewires behavior, scars memory, and forces a reckoning.
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The Muse: Confidence in Full Light
Jim Bratton Podcast
In this episode of the Jim Bratton Podcast, we sit down with Taylor McCreery to discuss "The Muse" — a live art experience blending vulnerability, strength, and artistic expression. Taylor shares how posing as a live model after a transformative life chapter became an empowering celebration of womanhood, authenticity, and creative collaboration. From curated white spaces to emotionally resonant artwork, this one-of-a-kind event left its mark on everyone present — especially the women who saw themselves in a new light. What happens when one woman dares to be fully seen — and stands...
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Soul fiya: From Boxman to Billboard
Jim Bratton Podcast
On this episode of the Jim Bratton Podcast, we sit down with Soulfiya—a reggae artist born in Guyana, coming through sound system culture, and now rocking stages across the country. He shares his journey from BoxMan to Billboard-charting performer, the cultural tensions within Caribbean music, and how social media landed him a global record deal. With humor, hustle, and heart, Soul fiya proves that making a living in music is still possible—if you’re willing to work. https://music.apple.com › artist › soulfiya
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"Threads and Tactics: How a 19-Year-Old Built a Vintage Empire from the Ground Up"
Jim Bratton Podcast
On this episode of The Jim Bratton Podcast, we sit down with 19-year-old entrepreneur Grayson Morris, the mind behind Uni VTG—a thriving youth-driven fashion business shaking up the resale scene. From flipping thrifted sneakers to running a buzzing in-store and online operation in Lexington, Kentucky, Grayson breaks down how he turned instinct, hustle, and smart social strategy into a booming venture. Whether you're a business student or a seasoned marketer, this story of grassroots growth and Gen Z insight is packed with UniVTG univtg · Instagram ...
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A Gallery Meant to Be: Dahlia & Catherine's Creative Partnership
Jim Bratton Podcast
In this episode of the Jim Bratton Podcast, artists Dahlia Woods and Catherine Stroud share the serendipitous journey behind opening their new art gallery at 2328 Market Street. What began as a chance meeting and a shared love of French culture and expressive art grew into a deeply collaborative creative space. They discuss navigating setbacks, the power of community, and the joy of creating art in a space that reflects their shared vision. : 2328 Market St, Galveston, TX 77550 :
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Little Outfit at The Pro
Jim Bratton Podcast
What happens when a bad job, a good cry, and a curbside phone call collide? You get the origin story of Little Outfit, a Houston-based Americana band that's grown tighter, jazzier, and more determined than ever. In this episode of Jim Bratton Podcast: From the Pro, we catch up on their new music, wild vinyl journey, and road-warrior tour life
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Locked Up, Vol. 3: Gang Politics, Betrayal, and Survival Inside
Jim Bratton Podcast
In this gripping third installment of the Locked Up series, Robert Serna returns to share the raw realities of prison gang politics and the painful betrayals that come with it. From navigating leadership roles in a dangerous system to the shocking mass exit of trusted allies, Robert pulls back the curtain on a world driven by codes, violence, and survival. This episode explores how loyalty can crumble and how following the rules can tear you apart.
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Stephen Smalzel-Episode 2 Inside the Van: Building Freedom on Four Wheels
Jim Bratton Podcast
This is the Jim Bratton Podcast, and today we’re back with Stephen Smalzel—artist, musician, and full-time van dweller—for part two of our conversation. Stephen shares the details of how he custom-built his Ford Transit into a fully functional, minimalist home on wheels, drawing from decades of nomadic experience. From layout decisions to cutting windows and ditching the bathroom, Stephen’s thoughtful approach reveals how simplicity can fuel both freedom and creativity.
info_outlineThis is the Jim Bratton Podcast, and today we’re back with Stephen Smalzel—artist, musician, and full-time van dweller—for part two of our conversation. Stephen shares the details of how he custom-built his Ford Transit into a fully functional, minimalist home on wheels, drawing from decades of nomadic experience. From layout decisions to cutting windows and ditching the bathroom, Stephen’s thoughtful approach reveals how simplicity can fuel both freedom and creativity.