All Episodes

July 3, 2025 17 mins
Join Emily "Em" Carter as she uncovers the shocking truth behind one of America's most controversial prison practices. What if I told you that solitary confinement wasn't originally designed as punishment, but as a compassionate reform by well-meaning Quakers who believed isolation could heal the criminal soul? In this deep dive, Em traces the fascinating and troubling evolution from 18th-century penitentiaries meant for spiritual reflection to today's psychological torture chambers. Discover how Eastern State Penitentiary's revolutionary "separate system" was supposed to be a humane alternative to brutal physical punishment, and learn why good intentions sometimes lead to devastating consequences. From the philosophical roots of criminal reform to the modern super-max facilities that house inmates in near-total isolation, this episode reveals how progressive ideals can transform into their opposite over time. Em's expertise in criminal psychology and forensic science brings this complex history to life, showing how understanding the past is crucial for reforming our future. Ready for more thought-provoking content that challenges what you think you know about crime and justice? Head over to https://www.quietperiodplease.com/ where you'll find an entire library of engaging podcasts that dive deep into the stories that shape our world. Don't just listen—discover your next obsession today!

Click here to browse handpicked Amazon finds inspired by this podcast series! https://amzn.to/42g1AnI
Mark as Played

Advertise With Us

Popular Podcasts

On Purpose with Jay Shetty

On Purpose with Jay Shetty

I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!

Dateline NBC

Dateline NBC

Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com

Stuff You Should Know

Stuff You Should Know

If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.

Music, radio and podcasts, all free. Listen online or download the iHeart App.

Connect

© 2025 iHeartMedia, Inc.