Live Inspired Podcast with John O'Leary Diane Kahn: Founding Member of Humans of San Quentin (ep. 768)
Apr 17, 2025
Diane Kahn, a former elementary school teacher and founding member of Humans of San Quentin, passionately advocates for second chances and shared humanity. She discusses her transformative work in California's notorious prison, emphasizing the power of storytelling to heal and humanize those incarcerated. Diane highlights moments of surprising kindness and the importance of empathy in addressing the challenges of the criminal justice system. Her insights inspire listeners to confront their own biases and foster a deeper connection with others, celebrating shared humanity.
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Origin of Humans of San Quentin
- Diane began Humans of San Quentin by interviewing one man inside prison to share his story.
- This compassionate storytelling grew into sharing thousands of incarcerated people's stories worldwide.
Feeling Safer Inside Prison
- Diane feels safer inside prisons than walking free because prisoners fear consequences inside the walls.
- This controlled environment produces a calm regulated atmosphere despite the harsh surroundings.
Kindness Within Prison Walls
- Diane is struck by the kindness and tenderness she finds repeatedly in incarcerated people.
- Storytelling reveals that common humanity binds us more than our differences separate us.
