The Criminologist

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 justice systems worldwide can better adapt to the challenges—and possibilities—of the digital age. Together, they explore the intersections of: Cybercrime and community supervision Victim protection in a virtual world The role of Therapeutic, Theological, and Political Victimology in behavior change The surprising relevance of Microbial Criminology in probation and public health Global practices that can inform U.S.-based supervision strategies Balancing technology with human connection in a justice system built on relationships Whether you're a front-line officer, trainer, or policy maker, this conversation will challenge you to think differently about the clients you serve—and the future of justice itself. Guest Bio: Professor K. Jaishankar is a world-renowned criminologist and founder of several sub-disciplines, including Cyber Criminology, Cyber Victimology, Therapeutic Criminology, and Microbial Criminology. Based in India, he is a prolific scholar, international speaker, and advocate for modernizing justice systems in response to technological and societal change. 🔗 Visit Professor Jaishankar's website 🔗 Connect with him on LinkedIn Key Topics Covered: The psychology of online crime and digital supervision What Space Transition Theory teaches us about behavior in cyberspace Intervention strategies for cyber-offenders The use of restorative and spiritual frameworks in rehabilitation Systemic injustice and client mistrust through the lens of Political Victimology Implications of global justice innovation for U.S. probation systems Training gaps and future competencies in cyber-related supervision Connect with Joseph Arvidson: 🌐 thecriminologistpodcast.com 📺 YouTube: The Criminologist 📧 joearvidson7@gmail.com 🔗 LinkedIn | Instagram If you found value in this episode, please rate and review the show, and share it with colleagues committed to building a more human, effective justice system. #CyberCriminology #Desistance #ProbationInnovation #TheCriminologist #Jaishankar #CommunityCorrections #DigitalJustice #Podcast

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 strangers—Arman's message is clear: we all have the power to create change through empathy, engagement, and everyday dialogue. 🎙️ In this episode, you'll learn: The pivotal moment that shifted Arman's life from crime to purpose How identity reconstruction plays a vital role in desistance Why financial stability is a critical but overlooked piece in successful reintegration How resilience and social support networks shape long-term transformation What practitioners and policymakers can do to break stigma and support reentry A look into Arman's Run and Smile events and upcoming Tour de Wave 2025 This conversation aligns closely with the TIDES Supervision Model, emphasizing the critical role of identity, resilience, and social support in fostering meaningful, evidence-based rehabilitation. 🔗 Connect with Arman and learn more about his work: 👉 https://armanv.no 🌐 Learn more about the TIDES Supervision Model: 👉 https://TheTIDESllc.com If this episode resonates with you, please share it, leave a five-star review, and join the conversation on LinkedIn or wherever you connect with change-makers.

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 Lucy's podcasting self would tell her former probation officer self ✅ Lived experience in media – The fine line between amplification and exploitation ✅ Neurodiversity and justice reform – The one change Lucy would implement overnight ✅ Ancient myths & modern justice – Why probation might just be the modern-day Odyssey And, of course, we dive into Lucy's newest project—The History Mongers—her upcoming podcast where history meets comedy, and storytelling gets just a little bit chaotic. If you love quirky history, mythology, and unexpected connections to the world we live in today, this is a show you won't want to miss! 🔗 Follow Lucy Bentley & The (upcoming) History Mongers podcast: 📌 Lucy on Linked In Contact Lucy via email 📢 Support the Show! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, rate, and review The Criminologist on your favorite podcast platform. Share it with a friend, a colleague, or anyone who believes in the power of storytelling to create change. 📩 Connect with Us: 🔹 Website: theparagongroupllc.com 🔹 Email: thecriminologistpodcast@gmail.com 🔹 Facebook & Instagram: @thecriminologistpodcast 🔹 Twitter: @Crimmediagroup (C-R-I-M media group) 🔹 LinkedIn: Joseph Arvidson | The Criminologist Podcast | The Paragon Group 🎥 YouTube: Subscribe to The Criminologist for exclusive content 💡 Want to bring evidence-based practices and desistance training to your agency? Reach out for customized training, presentations, and consulting opportunities! 🎧 Tune in, get inspired, and remember… There's no them, there's only us.

In this episode of The Criminologist Podcast, we welcome back Veronica Cunningham, Executive Director of the American Probation and Parole Association (APPA). With over nine years of transformative leadership, Veronica shares her vision for APPA as it celebrates 50 years of advancing community corrections. We dive into the exciting initiatives planned for APPA's 50th Anniversary, including year-long celebrations and the landmark Summer Training Institute in New York City! Veronica also provides a sneak peek into the upcoming Winter Training Institute in Las Vegas, offering highlights of keynotes, workshops, and opportunities for professional growth. Our conversation explores APPA's push toward unified standards in probation practices, the vital work of the International Relations Committee, and the growing importance of global partnerships. Veronica highlights the inspiring Justice 2.0 initiative led by Sarah Lewis in the UK and teases the potential for collaboration between APPA and this transformative movement. From technology's role in reshaping community corrections to the future of evidence-based practices, Veronica shares her insights into what lies ahead for probation and parole professionals worldwide. Whether you are an APPA member or passionate about the future of community corrections, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration. LINKS: Learn more about APPA's Winter Training Institute APPA's Home Page Learn about the "Justice 2.0" movement! The TIDES Supervision Model

Welcome to Episode 221 of The Criminologist podcast! In this powerful episode, we reconnect with two incredible voices in the criminal justice reform space-Edd Flanagan and John Reed. Together, they share their transformative journey's, ground breaking work, and their ongoing mission to inspire hope and change within the criminal justice system. WHAT YOU WILL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE Edd Flanagan's Story: After 20 years of imprisonment and 35 years of addiction, Edd is now 13 years into his recovery. Through his Choices and Chances program, he uses his artistic talents and lived experience to help others embark on their own journeys of rehabilitation and desistance. John Reed's Mission: As the founder of TutisOnline CIC, John leverages creativity-music, poetry, storytelling, and more- to improve mental well being and inspire reflection and change among those in the justice system. Creative Tools for Change: Discover how they use art, storytelling, and small-group engagements to foster connection and social capital. Expanding Reach: Learn about their vision for scaling their impact across the UK and beyond! Links and Resources: Explore Edd Flanagan's YouTube channel: Dive deeper into Edd's creative work and advocacy at Ed Flanagan and Co Visit John Reed's Website: John Reed. The Story Teller Fellah Connect with The Criminologist Podcast: Websites: The Paragon Group The TIDES Supervision Model Email the podcast: Email the podcast Email us as to TIDES model: TIDES email

Episode Summary: In this thought provoking episode, host Joseph Arvidson sits down with Dr. Jerrod Brown to explore the complex factors contributing to false confessions and wrongful convictions. Dr. Brown, an expert in neurocriminology, offers insights into how various mental and physical health factors-such as untreated nutritional deficiencies and cognitive impairments-impact behavior, decision making, and the reliability of client interviews. Together, Joseph and Dr. Brown unpack the vulnerabilities that can make certain individuals more susceptible to false confessions, from neurodevelopmental disorders and high levels of suggestibility to external pressures in the interview room. This episode challenges justice professionals to broaden their perspectives, looking beyond traditional frameworks like risk-needs-responsivity, to embrace a holistic view of client behavior. With practical implications for probation officers, correctional staff, and all who interact with justice-involved individuals, Dr. Brown's insights offer a pathway toward more effective, informed, and compassionate practices in the field. What You'll Learn: The types and causes of false confessions: Voluntary, Coerced, and Internalized. How cognitive impairments, neurodevelopmental disorders, and high suggestibility influence client statements and behaviors. The impact of nutritional deficiencies and physical health on mental well being and behavior in justice contexts. Practical strategies to improve client interactions, including accommodating neurodevelopmental needs and promoting a sensory friendly environment. Why a broader, interdisciplinary approach to justice work is essential for improving outcomes. Resources mentioned in this episode: Neurocriminology Informed Professional Certificate Program For those interested in deepening their understanding of the brain-behavior connection and its application in justice settings, Dr. Brown's certificate program offers a comprehensive look at neurocriminology's impact on criminal behavior. Learn more here Research paper: Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and the Risk-Needs-Responsivity Model. A guide for Criminal Justice and forensic mental health professionals: Co-Authored by Dr. Brown, and Joseph Arvidson, this paper dives into the complexities of working with clients affected by FASD and how the R-N-R model can be adapted to meet their unique needs. Read their paper here! Contact Dr. Jerrod Brown: Connect with Dr. Brown for more information on neurocriminology, false confession, and training opportunities. Dr. Brown's email address Stay Connected: Make sure you subscribe to The Criminologist podcast to keep up with the latest conversations aimed at advancing your knowledge and practice in the criminal justice field.We will be back soon with more expert insights and transformative solutions! Key words: False Confessions, Neurocriminology, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, Wrongful Convictions, Risk-Needs-Responsivity, Cognitive Impairments, Nutrition in Criminal Justice, Joseph Arvidson, Dr. Jerrod Brown. Credits: Joseph Arvidson Dr. Jerrod Brown

In this powerful episode of The Criminologist podcast, host Joseph Arvidson sits down with Gaelin Elmore, former NFL player, foster youth system survivor, and now a champion for the power of belonging! Gaelin's story is one of overcoming adversity, from navigating the foster care system to making it to the NFL, and eventually finding his true calling-helping others discover the life changing power of belonging. We explore Gaelin's personal journey of resilience and transformation, linking it to the TIDES Supervision Model's key pillars of change...Self Regulation, Identity, Resilience, and Social Support. Learn how belonging shaped his life and how it can be a critical tool in fostering positive change for at risk youth and marginalized communities. Gaelin's expertise is not just theoretical. He offers in-person workshops adn virtual webinars (2 hours, 4 hours, or 6 hours) to help organizations implement these concepts into their work with youth and families. His website also features insightful blogs on these topics! GaelinSpeaks.com Tune into this heartfelt conversation as we explore how the intersection of personal growth, trauma responsiveness, and belonging can change lives...just as it did for Gaelin. Key Takeaways: The role of belonging in transforming lives. Gaelin's firsthand experience with overcoming adversity and building a new identity. How the TIDES Supervision model aligns with Gaelin's approach. To learn more about the TIDES Supervision Model, reach out at thetidesllc@gmail.com or visit us at The TIDES website

In this insightful episode, host Joseph Arvidson reconnects with two pioneers in the field of Corrections, Brad Bogue and Guy Bourgon! Brad and Guy have had a profound influence on the development and implementation of evidence based practices within the criminal justice system. Both of these legends have contributed decades of research, innovation, and practical application that continue to shape modern correctional practices. The trio discusses the critical evolution of EBP in Corrections, their shared experiences of decades in the field, and the ever-hopeful future of evidence based practices. They also explore the innovate TIDES (Trauma Informed DESistance) supervision model, and how its approach can revolutionize probation work by integrating trauma informed and desistance principles. Join us as we explore these profound topics and reconnect with old friends who have been at the forefront of corrections reform. Whether you are a criminal justice professional, a researcher, or someone interested in the human side of rehabilitation, this episode is PACKED with invaluable lessons, stories, and inspiration.