Mary, Reggie, and Kat share their stories on motherhood and incarceration, highlighting the challenges and emotional turmoil faced by mothers behind bars. The podcast delves into the complexities of reuniting with loved ones, reflecting on addiction's impact on relationships, and fostering bonds despite physical separation.
The emotional toll of supporting incarcerated children, societal judgment, and personal guilt on mothers.
The lasting effects of maternal struggles, coping mechanisms, and the enduring bond between parent and child.
Deep dives
A Mother's Dedication to her Incarcerated Son
A mother reflects on her experience after her son was arrested at 17 for murder. She describes the emotional toll of seeing her son shackled in court and the challenges of the legal system. Despite the difficulties, she stays connected through phone calls and visits, navigating the complexities of supporting him in prison while dealing with societal judgment and personal guilt.
Parenting Behind Bars: Coping Strategies
Reggie recounts childhood experiences impacted by his mother's substance abuse, leading him to develop coping mechanisms like being repulsed by burnt spoons and seeking comfort in a plastic barrette. He shares emotional moments from his trial where his mother's intoxication haunted him, highlighting the lasting effects of maternal struggle on his life.
Mother-Daughter New Beginnings After Prison
Cat discusses her journey from prison release to reuniting with her daughter at college. She treasures sentimental items like a handmade sock baby and a plastic barrette representing her daughter. Their close bond is evident through regular texts and coffee outings post her college classes, fostering a new chapter of connection post-incarceration.
Enduring Separation and Reunification Through Tokens of Love
Reggie's emotional reunion with his HIV-positive mother after 12 years in prison highlights the profound impact of connection and shared memories. The plastic barrette symbolizing his daughter served as a cherished token of familial love throughout his incarceration, illustrating the enduring bond between parent and child during periods of separation.
In honor of Mother’s Day, some decidedly un-Hallmark-y stories about incarceration and motherhood.
Thanks to Mary Behun, Reggie, and Kat for speaking with us for this episode.
This episode was scored with music by David Jassy, Antwan Williams, Fernando Arruda, Dwight Krizman, Rhashiyd Zinnamon, and Earlonne Woods.
Big thanks to Acting Warden Andes and Lt. Berry at San Quentin State Prison, and Acting Warden Parker, Associate Warden Lewis, and Lt. Newborg at the California Institution for Women for their support of the show.
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