EP 206: Unleashing AI in Corrections. Transforming Rehabilitation, with Finland's Pia Puolakka!!!
Release Date: 05/11/2024
The Criminologist
In this gripping episode, we welcome back frequent guest and forensic mental health expert Dr. Jerrod Brown to explore the devastating phenomenon of intra-familial homicide—when murder occurs within the home, at the hands of someone trusted and loved. From uxoricide (husbands killing wives) to parricide (children murdering parents), these crimes tear at the fabric of our social and emotional understanding. Why do they happen? How can we spot the warning signs? And what role does neurocriminology play in helping us make sense of the unthinkable? 🎙️ Dr. Brown brings insight from his...
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In this quick-hit mini-sode, host Joe Arvidson checks in with listeners to share exciting updates from The Criminologist universe! Joe talks about prepping for his upcoming Fulbright Specialist assignment in Uruguay—where he’ll be training corrections professionals in evidence-based practices like the Risk-Need-Responsivity model, trauma-informed care, and desistance theory. He also reflects on summer podcast plans, international connections, and what to expect in upcoming episodes. It’s a brief message, but packed with gratitude, global perspective, and a sneak peek into what’s next....
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🎙️ Episode 232 | Beyond Supervision: A Conversation with Laura Elliott This week, we’re joined by Laura Elliott, Assistant Director of Community Corrections in Floyd County, Indiana—and the creative force behind the Beyond Supervision newsletter that’s sparking fresh dialogue in the field. In this thoughtful and energizing episode, Laura shares her journey from front-line supervision to leadership, and the values that guide her work every step of the way. We explore the tools she champions—including GPS monitoring and peer recovery support—as well as the relationships and...
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In this episode of The Criminologist Podcast, host Joseph Arvidson is joined by Shawn Trusten and Phil Galli, co-creators of the Core 4 Survey and Intervention, an innovative framework that breaks down social support into four key domains: Instrumental, Expressive, Perceived, and Received. Built on years of case management experience and field testing, the Core 4 model helps practitioners move beyond the binary “pro-social/anti-social” lens and instead gain a nuanced, actionable understanding of the social networks that influence client behavior. This episode explores how the Core 4 tool...
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Episode Summary: In a justice system often obsessed with risk scores and compliance checklists, what happens when we stop and ask a deeper question: How have you survived? In this powerful episode, Joseph Arvidson sits down with Dr. Charlie Barnao, sociologist, ethnographer, and professor at the University of Palermo, to explore the hidden strength behind the stories of justice-involved individuals. Dr. Barnao spent 15 years living in a halfway house—not observing from the outside, but embedded in the day-to-day realities of those navigating the margins. His work on the Sociology of Survival...
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Episode Summary: As our world becomes more digital, the work of probation and parole professionals becomes more complex. In this episode, Joseph Arvidson welcomes Professor K. Jaishankar, the globally recognized founder of Cyber Criminology, to explore what justice supervision looks like in an era of cybercrime, digital victimization, and technological surveillance. Professor Jaishankar, Principal Director of the International Institute of Justice & Police Sciences (India), offers powerful insights into his groundbreaking Space Transition Theory, the psychology of cyber-offending, and how...
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Episode Description (Libsyn Format): What does the gut have to do with criminal behavior, cognitive flexibility, or the ability to navigate supervision successfully? In this compelling episode of The Criminologist Podcast, host Joseph Arvidson welcomes back Dr. Jerrod Brown—expert in neurocriminology, behavioral health, and forensic psychology—for a deep dive into the emerging science of the gut-brain connection and its powerful implications for justice-involved individuals. Together, we explore how gut health, inflammation, and microbiota imbalances can influence cognition, mood...
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What does true transformation look like—from the inside out? In this compelling episode of The Criminologist, host Joseph Arvidson sits down with Arman Vestad—a former justice-involved individual turned award-winning keynote speaker, trainer, and advocate for change. Arman’s life story is one of remarkable resilience, identity transformation, and the social connections that made desistance not just possible—but sustainable. From his lived experience in the criminal justice system to his international Tour de Wave project—where he runs across cities, smiling and connecting with...
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🎙️ From Incarceration to Inspiration: The Why Not Mindset with Rustin Pangburn Description: What does it take to break free from the past and build a future full of purpose? In this powerful episode of The Criminologist podcast, we sit down with Rustin Pangburn—motivational speaker, justice reform advocate, and founder of . Rustin’s journey from serving a 60-month sentence to becoming an over-the-road truck driver and an advocate for second chances is nothing short of inspiring. Together, we explore: ✅ The challenges of reentry and the first steps to reintegration ✅ How Rustin...
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This week on The Criminologist podcast, we welcome the brilliant and boundary-pushing Lucy Bentley—a former probation officer turned podcast producer who’s redefining how we talk about justice, rehabilitation, and lived experience. Lucy’s career spans frontline work in probation, prison services, and recovery programs, where she championed strengths-based, trauma-informed approaches for individuals navigating the criminal justice system. Now, she’s bringing those same insights—and a touch of humor—to the microphone. In this episode, we explore: ✅ Lessons from the field – What...
info_outlineJoin us in this riveting episode of The Criminologist Podcast, as we dive deep into the transformative world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Corrections. Our special guests, Pia Puolakka, a seasoned expert in forensic psychology and digital rehabilitation, and Omega 8, an "AI specialist", shed light on the groundbreaking advancements reshaping rehabilitation within correctional facilities.
Pia Puolakka brings her wealth of experience from the front lines of implementing digital rehabilitation strategies in prisons, including the innovative Smart Prison concept. Discover how AI is revolutionizing inmate education, healthcare access, and social integration, paving the way for enhanced rehabilitation outcomes and reduced recidivism rates.
Omega 8, our AI guest, shares fascinating insights into the future prospects of digitalized prisons powered by AI. Explore the potential for AI applications in probation and parole, and gain valuable perspectives on the ethical considerations and legislative frameworks shaping the AI landscape in corrections.
In this thought-provoking episode, we also delve into the impact of AI on offender assessment, management, and the integration of psychological practices for holistic rehabilitation. Plus, don't miss our humorous closing segment with Omega 8...guaranteed to leave you with a smile!
Tune into The Criminologist and unlock the secrets behind the AI revolution transforming the future of corrections. Do not miss on this enlightening conversation...valuable links below!