Approaching Incarceration From a Different Perspective with Jeff Walsh

Welcome to Inside Job—a podcast by offenders, for offenders.
I’m your host, Cleve Bell, and today I’m joined by Jeff Walsh.

In today’s episode, Jeff shares his unique journey through incarceration—an experience that began at age 34 and opened his eyes to the deeper flaws within the justice system.

Driven by addiction, Jeff’s path to prison was not unlike many others, but his perspective once inside set him apart. He quickly recognized how the system often fails to support true rehabilitation and lasting change. Through it all, Jeff discovered the power of faith, trust, and unconditional love—principles that helped him uncover his purpose and stay committed to it.

This is a powerful conversation about personal transformation, spiritual growth, and the pursuit of a life that matters.

 

Key Takeaways:

[:44] Jeff shares how he started to get in trouble at 34 years old.

[2:25] The penitentiary system was not designed to really help people get out of the vicious cycle.

[3:04] Jeff talks about his childhood.

[6:52] Jeff shares about his high school years.

[8:56] Jeff talks about the lessons learned from working.

[10:33] Jeff shares about the beginning of his addiction.

[12:14] He was always trying to behave to get his parents’ approval.

[15:22] Jeff also got in trouble inside prison and had a life-changing experience.

[17:56] Jeff’s experience when he was first released.

[20:10] You have to do the best you can with you because that is all you have.

[21:45] Keep moving forward.

[22:07] Jeff talks about his first job and first place to live after incarceration.

[23:30] Jeff shares his dreams and visions.

[25:04] Faith and trust.

[28:00] We have to trust the process because it does work.

[29:26] You have to live to have experiences; they don’t happen by themselves.

[32:54] What does loving myself actually look like? Fill your cup first.

[34:50] Jeff extends his advice to all listeners.

[36:20] How returning citizens better equip themselves in times of pandemic?

[41:01] Jeff talks about his plans for the near future.

 

Learn More About Riverside House:

Riverside House is a nonprofit, government, and faith community partner. We have been active agents of change and sustained progress in the Miami area for more than three decades, helping tens of thousands walk a straight path into refashioned, sober, and spiritually upright lives as free citizens.

 

At Riverside House, we provide a critical relief valve during the transition of offenders from confinement to community. Our teams of well-credentialed and committed professionals support each man and woman who enters our doors in their unique, personal path to rehabilitation and recovery.

 

We are in the business of second chances, and we know that the consideration we extend to those most in need must be holistic in nature. We address the total person — mind, body, and spirit, attuned to the moral and material needs we all share.

 

“… Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”

Matthew 25:40 (NIV)

 

To learn more visit riversidehouse.org

 

Reach out to Riverside House:

Would you like to be featured on a future episode of Inside Job?

We would love to hear from you! Please go to riverside house.org, click the media tab then podcast. There you will find an application to submit your request.

 

Learn more about Jeff Walsh:

Jeff Walsh Breaking Chains