Breaking the Chains: How Stacy Burnett Challenges Mass Incarceration - Episode 31

In this episode of the 'Alive Again' podcast, hosts Andrea Parc and Alexa Dumitru welcome Stacy Lynn Burnett, who turned her federal prison experience into national leadership in advocacy and systemic reform. Stacy shares her powerful journey from reimagining societal shame associated with incarceration to influencing policy and educational reforms. As a graduate of the Bard Prison Initiative and Senior Product Manager for JSTOR Access in Prison, Stacy highlights the importance of providing educational opportunities for incarcerated individuals. She discusses her experience dealing with parole violations, the stigma faced by formerly incarcerated individuals, and the collateral damage to families and children. Stacy's story underscores the need for systemic change and offers hope and insight into transforming the criminal justice system.

Timestamps00:00 Overcoming Shame and Stigma

00:51 Introduction to Alive Again Podcast

01:34 Meet Stacy Lynn Burnett

04:20 The Reality of Stigma and Privilege

05:28 Challenges of Reentry and Advocacy

07:11 The Cost of Incarceration

08:21 International Travel Restrictions

11:52 Impact on Families and Children

18:44 Systemic Failures and Mental Health

25:25 A Turning Point: Education in Prison

26:47 Entering Prison with a Growth Mindset

27:49 Misconceptions About Prison Life

29:20 Challenges After Release

30:19 Protesting and Parole Restrictions

30:57 Embracing Advocacy and Change

34:40 The Bard Prison Initiative

37:57 The Power of Choice and Saying No

40:08 Reflections and Self-Care

43:47 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell

Contact Stacy Lyn Burnett:

Stacy Lyn Burnettlistenoutloudmedia.com

TEDxTalk:

https://youtu.be/v11Y-0yIgLE?si=L3Hd5QciqRvjmckR