Shows
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIWhat Prison Taught Me About Emotions, Faith, and Freedom with Kentric Devone McKoy - Episode 87In this episode, Eldra sits down with Kentric Devone McKoy for a powerful conversation about prison, emotional healing, faith, and freedom. Kendrick shares his journey from a childhood marked by abuse and suppressed emotion, through decades in the California prison system, to life after release as a truck driver, minister, and mentor. He speaks candidly about how unresolved anger followed him wherever he went and how prison became the place where he first learned to name, understand, and feel his emotions.
2026-02-0646 minThe Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIThis Life and the Fight Against Negative Emotion with Justin Smith episode 86In the first episode of 2026, Eldra sits down with Justin Smith for a candid conversation about negative emotion, honesty, and spiritual growth without performance. Justin shares how his childhood—marked by poverty, a status-driven community, and his father's struggle with manic depression—shaped his lifelong interest in helping people face emotional pain more honestly. Together, they explore why so many self-help and spiritual approaches fall short, and why honesty, community, and shared experience may be the most powerful tools we have. Justin also introduces This Life, an experimental app designed to help people confront negative emotion through reflection and conn...
2026-01-0235 minThe Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIIn the Face of Fear: Year-End Reflections on Fear, Healing, and Hope - Episode 85As we close out the year, Eldra Jackson III returns to a theme that has surfaced again and again—in his own life, in Inside Circle's work, and across the communities we've sat with: fear, and the choices we make when it shows up. In this reflective year-end episode, Eldra looks back at conversations with guests like Ari Rosen, Felix Mickens, and Ian Manuel—three powerful stories of courage, accountability, and transformation. Their journeys offer living examples of what it means to move toward healing, community, and purpose even when uncertainty or danger looms large. Thro...
2025-12-0518 min
The Limitless Podcast with Nick JonssonEpisode 264: Eldra Jackson III - Unlearning Dangerous MasculinityThis is episode #264 of The Limitless Podcast with Nick Jonsson, and we are honoured to feature Eldra Jackson III, Executive Director of Inside Circle.In this episode, Eldra shares a powerful, deeply personal perspective on unlearning dangerous masculinity — the kind that silently shapes men’s behaviour, relationships, and emotional expression. Drawing from his lived experience and his profound work inside circles of men seeking transformation, Eldra breaks down how society’s definition of “strength” often suppresses vulnerability, authenticity, and healing.He offers a raw look into the systems that teach boys to harden, men to shut down...
2025-11-1015 minThe Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIThe Loneliness at the Top: Nick Jonsson's Journey Toward Connection and Recovery - Episode 84In this episode of the Inside Circle Podcast, host Eldra Jackson III speaks with Nick Jonsson, global keynote speaker and bestselling author of Executive Loneliness, about the hidden cost of success and the healing power of vulnerability. After reaching the top of his corporate career, Nick's life began to unravel—leading him through isolation, addiction, and loss before discovering the courage to speak his truth. Through that journey, he learned that real strength isn't found in status or control, but in honest connection and community. Together, Eldra and Nick explore how breaking silence, sharing our st...
2025-11-0732 min
I AM ConversationsInside Circle: Vulnerability, Forgiveness, and Freedom with Eldra Jackson IIIHosted by Ana María Dávalos, Maria Lanas & Maclovia MartellIn this powerful conversation, writer, speaker, and advocate Eldra Jackson III (co-executive director of Inside Circle, featured in the award-winning documentary The Work) traces his path from a life sentence at Folsom to becoming a facilitator of deep healing work. We dive into childhood trauma, the cost of secrecy, shadow work, toxic vs. healthy masculinity, addiction, forgiveness, and Eldra’s vision for “houses of healing” that transform the justice system.
2025-10-1443 minThe Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIFacing the Water: Eldra Learns to Swim with Cori Myka - Episode 83This month's Inside Circle Podcast takes a different turn. Host Eldra Jackson III shares a personal milestone: just last summer, he learned to swim for the first time—side by side with kids half a century younger. That experience sparked today's conversation with Cori Myka, founder of Calm Within Adult Swim, who specializes in helping adults face their fear of water. Together, Eldra and Cori explore how learning to swim is about more than strokes and breathing. It's about panic and calm, trust and mistrust, and the lifelong journey from fear to freedom. Tune in for a vu...
2025-10-0334 min
A New Way of BeingFrom Life Sentence to Liberation: Eldra Jackson on Inner TransformationBreaking Cycles, Generational Healing and Personal Growth. This week I’m joined by Eldra Jackson, whose story is as powerful as it is inspiring. At 19, Eldra was sentenced to life in prison. What followed was years of violence, solitary confinement and, eventually, the beginning of a journey into deep inner work.Through the Inside Circle foundation, Eldra found a way to confront his own shadow, take responsibility, and transform his life. Today he helps others do the same – guiding men through the same kind of emotional work that saved him.We talk about the...
2025-09-2258 minThe Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIICracked Open in Folsom: Ari Rosen on Freedom Through Feeling - Episode 82In this episode of the Inside Circle Podcast, host Eldra Jackson III sits down with chef, restaurateur, and Inside Circle facilitator Ari Rosen. Ari shares his journey from growing up in Northern California with loving parents, to navigating bullying, building successful restaurants, and ultimately finding himself burned out and disconnected from his emotions. A pivotal moment came in 2017, when Ari entered New Folsom Prison for an Inside Circle weekend intensive—an experience that cracked open years of numbness and showed him the beauty and raw humanity that exists even within prison walls. Today, Ari continues to...
2025-09-0538 minThe Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIFrom "Messed Up" to Mindful: Rick Culleton's Road to Calm - Episode 81In this episode, host Eldra Jackson III sits down with entrepreneur, author, and former inmate Rick Culleton to explore what it really means to change from the inside out. Rick shares how he moved from addiction and anxiety to building a thriving business and a mindful life—one rooted in peace, clarity, and discipline. Together, they unpack what it takes to transform habits, embrace ADHD as a superpower, and discover that true success isn't about chasing more, but about finding calm within. Listen in for powerful reflections on healing, daily practices for "waking up happy," and why pe...
2025-08-0134 min
BRAVE WRKFrom Prison to Purpose: The Courage of Eldra Jackson IIIYou don’t meet many people like Eldra Jackson III.A man who once lived behind the walls of New Folsom Prison, Eldra doesn’t just talk about transformation—he embodies it. What began as a sentence meant to contain him became the very soil where his healing took root.Inside a maximum-security yard, Eldra sat in his first men’s circle. He showed up with walls, but walked out with something deeper: truth, vulnerability, and the terrifying freedom of being fully seen. That journey led him out of pr...
2025-07-0450 minThe Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIDark and Tender: Aaron Johnson on Reclaiming Touch and Dismantling the Black Brute Myth - Episode 80In this episode of The Inside Circle Podcast, Eldra sits down with social activist and founder of The CUT Project, Aaron Johnson, about the need for holistic, platonic touch in the lives of Black and BIPOC men. Drawing from personal experience and his work, Aaron explores how unaddressed trauma and chronic under-touching affect nervous systems, relationships, and communities — and how healing practices rooted in intention and connection can bring transformation. Aaron introduces his short documentary Dark and Tender, which follows 10 Black men on retreat as they navigate grief, touch, and connection. He reflects on dismantling the "Black br...
2025-07-0436 min
The Civic Courage Lab™ PodcastSolitary to Solidarity: Trauma, Brotherhood, and Transformation w/ Eldra Jackson IIIWelcome to the Healing Our Politics Podcast! Join Our Community and Receive Free Tools + How to Guides:Join “The Leader’s Handbook” newsletter https://leadershandbook.substack.com/about· Always free· Once per month email· Curated selection of tools, techniques, and practices discussed on this podcast· Delivered in simple to follow how-to-guides· To try and test in your life, and teach your teams.JOIN HERE https://leadershandbook.substack.com/about Guest:Eldra Jackson III is the C...
2025-06-191h 29
Parents Who ThinkOn Harm, Healing and Radical Accountability with Eldra JacksonEldra Jackson doesn't soften the truth. And he doesn't offer redemption stories tied up in a bow. In this conversation, he speaks openly about the crimes that led to his 24-year prison sentence and the deeper inner work that began long after the bars closed behind him. Danusia Malina-Derben, host of Parents Who Think, joins Eldra to explore what happens when men are taught that power depends on domination—and what unfolds when trauma goes unnamed. And what it means to take full responsibility not just for your past, but for the impact you still have on ot...
2025-06-1414 minThe Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIMy Time Gonna Come: Ian Manuel on Poetry, Prison, and the Power of Forgiveness - Episode 79In this powerful conversation, host Eldra Jackson III sits down with Ian Manuel—activist, poet, and author—whose life was irrevocably changed after being sentenced to life in prison at age 13. Ian shares his remarkable journey from solitary confinement to the national stage, where his poetry and voice are transforming narratives about justice and healing. With raw vulnerability and grace, Ian recounts his friendship with the woman he harmed, the struggle to rebuild life after release, and how art helped him survive two decades in isolation. A moving exploration of restorative justice, resilience, and redemption. To learn more...
2025-06-0650 minThe Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIPatchwork of Healing: Felix Mickens on Love, Loss, and Leadership - Episode78Felix Mickens joins host Eldra Jackson III to reflect on a life shaped by early loss, decades of service in juvenile justice, and a profound journey of healing. From his childhood in East St. Louis and New Jersey to his leadership in bringing Inside Circle into New Jersey's juvenile justice system, Felix shares moving stories of grief, disconnection, growth, and the quiet power of second chances. Now cancer-free after a decades-long battle, Felix embodies the resilience and compassion he offers to the young people he serves.
2025-05-0246 minThe Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIThe Inner Warrior: Rising Beyond Limits with Wayne Forrest - Episode 77After a devastating rugby injury left him paralyzed from the neck down at just 25, Wayne Forrest could have given up. Instead, he tapped into something deeper. In this moving conversation with host Eldra Jackson III, Wayne shares how he transformed trauma into triumph, rediscovered purpose, and now helps others access their inner warrior. Tune in to hear how this farmer, father, and coach turned adversity into fuel for a powerful new life. Learn more about Wayne at https://www.wayneforrest.com/ Connect with Inside Circle at https://insidecircle.org/
2025-04-0435 minThe Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIHealing, Identity, and the Power of Mentorship with Thomas LaGrave Jr. - Episode 76Therapist Thomas LaGrave Jr. joins Eldra Jackson III to explore the loss and reclamation of identity through addiction, the healing power of nature, and the role of strong male mentors in shaping lives. Drawing from his work in the prison system and the Honor Bound Academy, Thomas shares raw insights on accountability, transformation, and what it truly means to heal. Learn more at thehonorboundacademy.org
2025-03-0738 minThe Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIDefending the Defenseless with Alexander McLean - Episode 75In this powerful episode, Eldra Jackson III welcomes Alexander McLean, founder of Justice Defenders, an organization transforming lives by training prisoners and prison officers to become paralegals and lawyers. Alexander shares his incredible journey, from washing and advocating for abandoned patients in Uganda as a teenager to building a movement dedicated to ensuring every accused person has the opportunity to tell their story before being punished. With stories of resilience, transformation, and radical trust, Alexander reveals how Justice Defenders is empowering unlikely allies in Uganda, Kenya, and beyond to bring dignity, justice, and hope where it's needed...
2025-02-0739 minThe Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIHealing Our Politics with Skippy Mesirow - Episode 74In the first episode of 2025, host Eldra Jackson III welcomes Skippy Mesirow, certified master coach and founder of the Elected Leaders Collective (ELC), for a deeply personal and insightful conversation about healing our politics, addressing addiction, and confronting the unspoken realities of mental health and suicide. Skippy shares his journey from battling severe addiction to founding ELC, which leads the nation in mental health and well-being training for public servants. Through his own experiences, he emphasizes that healing politics begins with the human in the mirror, reminding us of the critical role self-awareness plays in creating systemic...
2025-01-0344 minThe Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson III2024 Year in Review: Igniting Community - Episode 73In the final episode of 2024, host Eldra Jackson III reflects on a transformative year for Inside Circle and its mission to empower system-impacted individuals to ignite healing and change within themselves and their communities. From reintroducing circles inside New Folsom Prison after six years to launching the first Inside Circle program at the Zaanstad Justice Center in Amsterdam, this year has been about one theme: igniting community. Eldra revisits three standout episodes that exemplify this theme, sharing powerful stories from guests like Jason Bostic, Wesley Jeffries, Janelle Hudson and Manuel Ruiz. Join us for an inspiring retrospective...
2024-12-0625 minThe Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIUnlocking the Hidden Workforce with Trent Griffin-Braff - Episode 72In this episode of The Inside Circle Podcast, host Eldra Jackson III welcomes Trent Griffin-Braff, founder of The Success Map Initiative. Trent shares his journey of growing up in the Bronx during the crack epidemic and his rise from cleaning toilets at the Marriott to becoming a general manager. Now, through his nonprofit, The Success Map Initiative, his mission is to uplift the "hidden workforce"—those often overlooked—helping them find hope, employment, and purpose. He furthers this mission with his Prison Bosses podcast, which reaches incarcerated individuals across the country, offering them hope and tools for success after relea...
2024-11-0146 minThe Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIIntentional Living: From Prison to Purpose with George Nolan - Episode 71In this powerful episode of Inside Circle, host Eldra Jackson III sits down with George Nolan, a re-entry recovery advocate and motivational disruptor. George shares his transformative journey from a life of crime, addiction, and prison to becoming a force for positive change. At 45, he had a life-changing epiphany that led him to pursue a path of intention, authenticity, and recovery. George opens up about the importance of aligning actions with values, the hard work of personal development, and how he's now helping others realize that their past doesn't have to dictate their future. From prison tattoos to entrepreneurship...
2024-10-0451 min
KUKURUEldra Jackson & Dr. James Mcleary over je eigen gevangenis, licht/schaduw en healing | KUKURU #246Altijd op de hoogte blijven van de nieuwe KUKURU podcasts, speciale kortingen ontvangen, en meer? https://kukuru.nl/blijfopdehoogte/In dit bijzondere engelse gesprek (met ondertiteling op Youtube) ga ik in gesprek met de uitvoerend producent van de veelgeprezen documentaire ‘The Work’; klinisch psycholoog en docent James Mcleary en Eldra Jackson. Eldra is onderdeel van die docu als gevangene in Folsom State Prison en inmiddels uitvoerend directeur van Inside Circle.Dit gesprek gaat veel verder dan wat goed zou zijn voor het gevangeniswezen (ze waren even in Nederland om daar...
2024-09-081h 46The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIUnlocking the Power of Sexual Energy with Jackson Hightower - Episode 70In this episode of Inside Circle, host Eldra Jackson III and guest Jackson Hightower explore the transformative power of sexual energy. Jackson shares his holistic approach to helping men overcome issues like shame, performance anxiety, and porn addiction. By focusing on diet, fitness, and mindset, Jackson shows how harnessing sexual energy can boost confidence and positively impact every aspect of life. This episode challenges taboos and offers practical insights for men seeking to elevate themselves and achieve lasting success. Learn more at - www.jacksonhightower.com/
2024-09-0645 minThe Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIEmpowering Men of Color with Charles Sue-Wah-Sing - Episode 69In this episode of The Inside Circle Podcast, host Eldra Jackson III engages in a profound conversation with Charles Sue-Wah-Sing, founder and facilitator of Men of Color—a supportive community for men of color to grow and prosper in all aspects of their lives. As a personal and professional coach, Charles shares insights from his journey in business and coaching, highlighting how he supports the liberation of men of color from the myths of modern masculinity, race, and patriarchy. His aim is to inspire them to become purpose-driven and compassionate men. Listen as Charles discusses the deep internal work re...
2024-08-0242 minThe Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIJenelle Hudson on Transformational Housing - Episode 68Join Eldra Jackon III and guest Jenelle Hudson, founder of Pyramid House Foundation, an organization bridging the gap from homelessness to independence, as they delve into the incredible power of safe, supportive, and empowering transitional housing. Jenelle, with a background in sociology and social work, shares her journey from the Caribbean to New York and her impactful work leading resident-centric transformation for the largest public housing authority in the United States. Discover her latest vision for providing five-star transitional housing experiences, her advocacy for stable housing as a pathway to self-actualization, and her innovative approach with Brick City Candy...
2024-07-0540 minThe Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIHiding Inside a Man with Matthew Sloane - Episode 67Welcome to the Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson III. Today, we're joined by Matthew Sloane, a committed father, husband, and integral coach. Matthew's soulful book on masculinity, Hiding Inside a Man, is coming out in November 2024. He is also working on Raising Spirited Daughters, an illustrated story for mindful fathers. In this episode, we explore the unique journey of fatherhood, focusing on vulnerability, catharsis, community, sensitivity, and self-compassion. Matthew shares the importance of starting with self-compassion for any healing and growth, and he highlights the need for fathers to support each other. Discover more about Matthew's...
2024-06-0740 minThe Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIReversing the Psychic Sting of Slavery with Al Lewis - Episode 66Join Eldra Jackson III on this inspiring episode of "The Inside Circle," where he welcomes Al Lewis, a pivotal figure who witnessed the evolution of civil rights organizing firsthand in Memphis. Al shares his unique experiences growing up during the tumultuous civil rights era and discusses his journey to the Underground Railroad Training Odyssey. In a heartfelt conversation, Al expresses his enduring hope and belief in the potential for growth and healing within communities. This episode delves into how we can tap into our collective humanity to mend the deep-seated historical pain and trauma that lingers in places steeped...
2024-05-0343 minThe Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIBreaking Boundaries in Brooklyn: Jason & Wesley's Path to Restoration - Episode 65Dive into a compelling episode of the Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson III, featuring guests Jason Bostic and Wesley Jeffries from Bed Stuy, Brooklyn. This episode illuminates the transformative healing journey of two former rivals, brought together by the programmatic efforts of Project Restore. Through the dedicated healing work facilitated by Inside Circle, they embark on a path of discovering commonality, embracing a new way of being, and fostering community healing. Their story highlights the crucial work of Project Restore and Inside Circle in facilitating personal transformation and reconciliation. Listen in for a powerful narrative of hope, change...
2024-04-051h 01The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIITransformations Within: The YAE Journey with Eldra Jackson III, Episode 64Join host Eldra Jackson III for a compelling episode of The Inside Circle Podcast, spotlighting the transformative journeys of two remarkable individuals enrolled in Inside Circle's Young Adult Empowerment (YAE) program. Listen as they recount their histories and the profound impact of the program's holistic approach, which helped them reshape their futures by pairing emotionally supportive male role models with life skills training, addiction recovery, workforce development, and financial literacy. Through candid accounts of struggle and growth, this episode offers an intimate glimpse into the world of young men born into extremely challenging circumstances who, with deep personal commitment...
2024-03-0121 minThe Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIILearning How to Feel with Manuel Ruiz, Episode 63Join Eldra Jackson III in a powerful conversation with Manuel Ruiz, Chairman of the Board at Inside Circle. In this episode, Manuel details his journey from a 21-year life sentence to his pivotal role in the organization today and shares about how he learned to feel, the complexities of shedding his identity as a former prisoner, and how he helped bridge racial divides in prison. Reminding us all to breathe and emphasizing the value of self-reflection and reframing our internal narratives, Manuel's story is an inspiring testament to the transformative power of Inside Circle.
2024-02-0237 minThe Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIICredible Messenger with Taylor Code, Episode 62In this inaugural 2024 episode of Inside Circle, host Eldra Jackson III introduces Taylor Code, an individual whose journey in restorative justice began in his youth at a Los Angeles probation camp. Taylor shares his transformative experience from gang member to empowered poet, discussing the pivotal role of vulnerability and creativity in reclaiming his identity. As a Credible Messenger Coordinator, Taylor now dedicates his life to mentorship and community restoration, reflecting on his profound evolution and commitment to change. Join us as we explore Taylor's powerful narrative of redemption and impact. Find more about Taylor's work at iamtaylorcode.c...
2024-01-0546 min
Hur Kan Vi?Eldra Jackson III - Hur blir man man?Det här ett återpublicerat och reklamfritt samtal som spelades in 2019.För många är kanske Eldra Jackson III mest kände från dokumentären ”The Work”. Han har avtjänat 24 år i fängelse varav två av dem i isolering. Idag arbetar han för organisationen ”Inside Circle” som grundades i New Folsom-fängelset i Sacramento 1996. ”Inside Circle” fokuserar på att stötta och rehabilitera män i deras personliga arbete under tiden de sitter i fängelse. Det var tack vare ”Inside Circle” som Eldra blev frisläppt från den dom som egentligen innefattade livstid.
2023-12-291h 23
Holistic Life Navigation[Ep. 178] Finding Safety Inside Prison w/ Eldra Jackson IIIOn today's episode Luis is joined by writer and speaker Eldra Jackson III. Luis had seen Eldra in The Work, and was deeply moved by the documentary. At the time of filming, Eldra was serving a life-sentence in prison; he is now the co-executive director of Inside Circle, the non-profit who hosts the men's groups shown in the documentary.As a survivor of childhood trauma, Eldra had developed an internalized story that said that to thrive you must become a predator, in order to not become a victim again. This led to decisions and a lifestyle that...
2023-12-2438 minThe Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIThe Art of Versatility: From Circus to CEO with Robin P. Zander, Episode 61In this episode, host Eldra Jackson III welcomes Robin P. Zander, an entrepreneur, strategist, and best-selling author with a unique background in management consulting and the circus. Robin, founder and CEO of Zander Media and author of the national bestseller in Japan, "How to Do a Handstand," shares insights from his diverse career experiences, including leading the Responsive Conference on the future of work and running Robin's Cafe in San Francisco. Tune in to get inspired by Robin's resilience as he recounts his journey through abusive childhood bullying and the inner work leading to a transformative realization: sensitivity as...
2023-12-0138 minThe Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIStanding in the Gap with Hawi James Ouma, Episode 60Sometimes, you must push past the voice that whispers, "I'm not the right person for this." Hawi James Ouma did precisely that when he began working with children affected by the justice system. Recognizing the need for positive male role models in the lives of young men, James founded Life Song Kenya. Join Eldra and James as they discover universal threads of trauma and redemption across the globe. Visit lifesongkenya.org/ to lean more.
2023-11-0329 min
Mojo for the Modern ManEldra Jackson III – In Circle and Openhearted Inside Prison Walls – Act 2Eldra Jackson III joins us once again, and we hit the ground running, diving into his life's most valuable lessons. Hailing from a challenging background, he spoke of the significance of self-worth and the often overlooked role of support, especially for men. His own journey highlighted the immeasurable power of authenticity and embracing one's past for personal growth. Before we wrap up Act 2, Eldra touches on the pivotal importance of self-acceptance, personal evolution, and propelling oneself ahead.A writer and sought after public speaker on the topics of at-risk youth advocacy, effective criminal justice rehabilitation...
2023-08-0843 minMojo for the Modern ManEldra Jackson III – In Circle and Openhearted Inside Prison Walls – Act 1In this deeply insightful conversation, Eldra Jackson III fearlessly shared his life journey, from growing up as a military brat during the Cold War era to facing the consequences of his choices, leading to incarceration. He opened up about the constructs he created to protect himself and how they shaped his path, though despite the darkness, Eldra found strength in resilience and the importance of self-forgiveness, highlighting the significance of seeking support within a men's group. His transformation is a testament to the power of self-discovery, passion, and courage, reminding us that taking the first step paves the way...
2023-08-0134 min
The Weekend UniversityRethinking Masculinity - Eldra Jackson IIIIn this talk, we will seek to demystify and remove the 'loaded' feelings that oftentimes arise for so many when we hear the term "toxic masculinity". The term has become a part of the current lexicon and can serve to castigate half of the human population as inherently 'bad' or 'negative'. Masculinity is not a negative aspect of the human condition in and of itself, but like anything else, left unchecked, almost anything can be harmful without constructive and healthy direction. In the confines of the belly of the beast that is New Folsom prison, a movement was born that...
2023-05-2659 minThe Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIVoice of the Voiceless with Jabari Jackson, Episode 51A survivor and product of the streets of San Francisco, community activist, Jabari Jackson was raised in a violent, chaotic world that was defined by addiction, crime and incarceration. After decades in and out of prison, Jabari shares how change became possible for him. Today, he's committed to the restoration of underserved communities and lives to fight for restorative justice and the recovery community.
2023-02-0349 min
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIDoing the Work with Eldra Jackson III, Episode 50In this episode, we turn the microphone around and ask podcast host and Co-Executive Director of Inside Circle, Eldra Jackson III, a few questions about the work that Inside Circle does. Eldra was an inmate at New Folsom Prison when he found Inside Circle and began the inner personal journey that eventually led to his release in 2014 and his current leadership role. Today, he's a coach, healing circle facilitator, writer and sought after public speaker on the topics of at-risk youth advocacy, effective criminal justice rehabilitation and turning around "toxic" masculinity. Tune in to hear from this living example...
2022-11-1834 min
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIBarrier-Free Mental Health with Dr. Trina Clayeux, Episode 49Join host, Eldra Jackson, as he sits down with Dr. Trina Clayeux, the extraordinary CEO of Give An Hour, a non-profit that provides population-based, no-cost access to mental health care for veterans, formerly incarcerated people, refugees, survivors of mass shootings, and many more. In this uplifting conversation, Trina discusses how she turned her personal story into a life's work driven by ethics and dedicated to meeting communities where they are and providing long-term support for healing. Tune in to enjoy this living example of how we can all come together to care for ourselves, our families, and our communities.
2022-11-0447 minThe Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIAppreciating the Truth with Tracy Scott, Episode 47Tracy Scott got out of prison in 2022 after serving a 28 year sentence. Listen as he shares his powerful story of trauma, pain, transformation, and how he found his commitment to a life of good works. Today, he works with youth in and out of the prison system and is passionate about rehabilitation. Tune in as Tracy and host, Eldra Jackson III, discuss the amazing potential for folks throughout the prison system – workers, wardens, and incarcerated folks – to transform their own lives and support a more vibrant and healthy society.
2022-10-0740 min
The UNcivilized Podcast with Traver BoehmEldra Jackson — Hug A Thug — Finding freedom in Folsom PrisonThis former gang member sentenced to 24 years in prison is the perfect example of how transformation exists if we feel supported and heard.
Today's guest is Eldra Jackson. At just 14 years old, Eldra was convicted of a series of gang violence crimes. Locked up in prison, he had to live alone with his mind due to the environment around him until the Inside Circle community gave him the opportunity to transform himself.
Eldra, who is the Co-executive Director of the aforementioned non-profit community, teaches incarcerated, former, and young people to achieve self-acceptance. He says self-awareness...
2022-09-1254 min
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIVulnerability is Strength with Jason Broadway, Episode 45In this conversation, Eldra Jackson III talks to his longtime friend, Jason Broadway. Recently released from federal prison after serving 15 years, Jason's done all he can to turn his life around. He's become a writer and activist since he was first incarcerated and in this episode, he expands even further. Listen as he opens up to a whole new level of his own humanity. By walking through anger with vulnerability as his guiding light, Jason connects to the presence and power of his own emotions. Don't miss this one, folks.
2022-09-0959 min
Compassion In ActionReturning Citizen Roundtable Part 2 feat. Jason Bryant, Eldra Jackson III and Robert MosquedaJoin CPP Founder Fritzi Horstman and guests as they discuss the objectives and approaches involved in bringing trauma awareness and compassionate healing to the forefront of public conversation.
https://youtu.be/59fKdmiB4MU
Originally filmed to be included in our Trauma Talks program, this conversation includes a discussion about resilience and solitary confinement. It is our goal that we break the cycle of violence that exists in our prisons, our communities and our families.
Our Returning Citizen Roundtable Part 2 features Jason Bryant, Eldra Jackson III and Robert Mosqueda.
Jason Bryant is the Program Director for CROP (Creating Restorative Opportunities and...
2022-09-0740 minCompassion In ActionReturning Citizen Roundtable feat. Shaka Senghor, Jason Bryant, Eldra Jackson III and Robert MosquedaJoin CPP Founder Fritzi Horstman and guests as they discuss the objectives and approaches involved in bringing trauma awareness and compassionate healing to the forefront of public conversation.
https://youtu.be/BI27-qxQIUI
Originally filmed to be included in our Trauma Talks program, this conversation dives into the ACE Quiz as well as a discussion about the prevalence of childhood trauma in the trauma to prison pipeline. This conversation is included in Episode 2 of our series which is being implemented in several prisons and communities in the United States. It is our goal that we break the cycle of violence...
2022-08-081h 44
The ManKind PodcastHow to Turn Your Wounds Into Strengths | Eldra Jackson III | Ep #074Text Us Your Feedback! (Likes, Dislikes, Guest/Conversation Recommendations). In this episode of the ManKind Podcast, host Paul Newell sits down with Eldra Jackson III to talk about the various sides of human work, the areas most fail to acknowledge and integrate. Eldra is the Co-Executive Director of The Inside Circle, a healing community using the power of human connection found in peer-guided healing circles, we transform lives, positively impacting each system we touch by reducing violence inside and outside adult and juvenile prisons, lowering recidivism rates, and building social-emotional literacy. He is also the Hos...
2022-05-261h 14
From the Inside: Architecture's Impact on Criminal Justice ReformManifesting Hope - Eldra Jackson III Tells Us About Inside CircleIn this episode I speak with Eldra Jackson III, Co-Executive Director of Inside Circle, a non-profit that runs programs within prisons and the community with the aim of empowering system-impacted people. We discuss Eldra's experiences within the justice system, his experiences with Inside Circle, and the amazing trajectory that this involvement had on the rest of his life. I truly hope you're as inspired by this episode as I was.--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/fromtheinsidepodcast/support
2022-04-1439 min
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIRediscovering Your Humanity with Cartis Wilcox, Episode 32Cartis Wilcox and Eldra Jackson III met while serving life sentences in prison. Both are free now and have incredible stories to share. Join them for a wild ride as Cartis details his journey through darkness, strife, and grief to find himself and reflects on his most important lessons this side of transformation.
2022-03-1141 min
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIThe Psychology of Knowing Yourself with Dr. Curly Moloney, Episode 31Join host, Eldra Jackson III, as he sits down with Dr. Curly Moloney to learn how she and her team developed The Cambridge Code, the first digital tool capable of reading and interpreting the mind's subconscious behavior. With incredible potential to support folks who might have trouble accessing therapy or other psychological support, the Cambridge Code is a powerful new tool for looking at your own mind. In today's conversation, learn about what's going on during your most difficult moments and hear all about how the subconscious mind drives your actions, how to find resilience and how to make...
2022-02-2238 min
The Conscious VibeUnderstanding The Inside Circle, A Journey of Purpose w/ Eldra Jackson | Season Two, Episode TwentyUnderstanding The Inside Circle, A Journey of Purpose w/ Eldra Jackson | Season Two, Episode TwentyA writer and sought after public speaker on the topics of at-risk youth advocacy, effective criminal justice rehabilitation and turning around ‘toxic’ masculinity, Eldra brings clarity of purpose, mission focus, and inspiration to his role at Inside Circle. He was an inmate at New Folsom Prison when he found Inside Circle and began the inner personal journey that eventually led to his release in 2014 and his current leadership role. A living example of successful rehabilitation and re-entry, Eldra has dedicated his free time on t...
2022-01-1937 min
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIFinding Your Voice with Nina Simonds, Episode 28An executive coach and community facilitator focused on anti-racism and peer learning, Nina Simmonds approaches her personal transformational work with rigor and compassion. Taking us right to the heart and soul of some of her most difficult work, Nina lends a gentle and powerful perspective. Tune in as she and host Eldra Jackson III discuss how to navigate through fear while guiding yourself through big life transitions.
2022-01-0337 min
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIITruth Without Fear with Rick Misener, Episode 27Join host Eldra Jackson III as he sits down with Rick Misener, a formative member of Inside Circle who found himself in the healing circles Inside Circle is known for. In this dialogue, Eldra and Rick go right to the heart of vulnerability, love, and wisdom as they reveal that every drop of contentment in our lives is worth working for. This kind of community, these moments of connection, are the heart of transformation. Today, Rick shares his powerful lived-experience as a coach and facilitator for Inside Circle. You can join his virtual drop-in support group every Wednesday 6-8...
2021-12-171h 11
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIBelonging with Jillian Richardson, Episode 26Jillian Richardson is a coach and community organizer whose work focuses on how to build and sustain nourishing relationships and communities. She curates The Joy List, a weekly email of positive community events in New York, and leads a program called "New Yorker in 90 Days." There's a depth to Jillian's work and the way she approaches her own personal growth that resonates with Inside Circle. This interview highlights unexpected connections among different types of community building and transformational work.
2021-12-0336 min
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIAnswer the Call with James McLeary, Episode 25James McLeary was part of the original group that brought men's circles to New Folsom Prison after the 1996 riots that led to the formation of Inside Circle. He's been part of the men's work movement for over 25 years and his wisdom shines through this beautiful, rich conversation. James has made incredible contributions to initiation practices and circles over the years - especially for black men and people inside prison, but above all, he's committed to doing his own work.
2021-11-1949 min
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIA Beautiful Struggle with Stephanie Lane, Episode 24Today's conversation is a true opportunity to sit down in circle, to feel the connection and growth that happens when we make space together to sit with our vulnerability in mutual trust and support. Stephanie Lane has spent more than half her life in and out of the juvenile and adult prison systems. She's been out for two years now, and she is not going back. She's got her support network, goals for her life's work, and a willingness to do the work. This will be the best half hour of your day, folks, so please sit down with...
2021-11-0536 min
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIITransforming Education with Maurice Regalado, Episode 23Maurice Regalado is a life-long educator who has been serving students in economically disadvantaged communities in the Los Angeles region since 1988. In this inspiring dialogue he sheds light on the forces driving the school-to-prison pipeline, highlights the challenges that violent, chaotic, impoverished home lives bring to school achievement, and addresses the underlying issues that cause students to fall behind, repeatedly break school rules, and drop out. Listen as Maurice, with heart, soul, and hard-earned wisdom, shares his vision for a brighter future.
2021-10-2241 min
The Man Enough PodcastEldra Jackson III: Human Work, Not Prison WorkWriter, speaker, and a living example of transformation, Eldra Jackson III shares his personal journey of what led to hitting rock bottom and rehabilitating his life. Eldra invites us to embrace self-awareness, accountability and empathy, or as he refers to it, “human work.” While incarcerated, his transformation was made possible by the community of Inside Circle, a non-profit organization dedicated to creating spaces for healing for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated people. Now, he is the Co-Executive Director, dedicated to helping others find their own path to redemption. With riveting openness and kindness, Eldra shares personal stories and insights from his...
2021-10-181h 12
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIITake the Risk with Steve Kawaja, Episode 22This episode's guest is Steve Kawaja, a businessman who got interested in personal transformation and the prison system about ten years ago. He started visiting prisons with Inside Circle in 2015. Through sitting in circle with incarcerated folks, Steve has found something that sounds an awful lot like deep personal transformation. In this conversation, Steve gets real about what personal growth looks like for him, how vulnerability frees us, and the joys of being a little lighter and freer in the world.
2021-10-0841 min
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIMental Health is Collective and Political with Dr Bandy X Lee, Episode 21Joining us today is Dr Bandy X Lee, a psychiatrist, author, and public health expert who works in violence prevention. She has been motivated throughout her life to work with those most in need, and during her medical training identified that people who are incarcerated are that population. She has studied the terrible negative effects of solitary confinement, and explains how that punishment is profoundly inhumane. Dr Bandy X Lee has also studied the effects of tyrants and other impaired personalities in affecting mental health at the societal level. She talks to us about the collective mental health impact...
2021-09-2449 min
School For Fathers Podcast#91: WHOLE - Eldra Jackson IIIBeing WHOLE can mean accepting the light and dark sides of ourselves. TED Talker and Co-Exec Director of Inside Circle, Eldra Jackson III joins me for a conversation unpacking toxic masculinity from inside the prison system as an life-sentence inmate to his work with Inside Circle. We talk power + control, gang life, remorse (or lack of) and more. Eldra's perspective on life and his humility is truly refreshing. I'd love to hear your thoughts on this episode - as always, you can email me on danusia@schoolforfathers.com
2021-09-1744 min
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIReal Accountability with Aaron Burris, Episode 20Both a group facilitator and organizational leader at Inside Circle, Aaron Burris is passionate about his work expanding the reach of our healing circles and leading struggling justice-involved people through transformative group processes each day. In this profound conversation, he shares about his darkest moments in prison and the challenges of confronting intergenerational trauma. Having committed his life to breaking cycles of incarceration, Aaron's decades of hard personal work shine through this dialogue, highlighting his beautiful, grounded, uplifting perspective on how we can all learn and grow by sitting with ourselves. If you don't like the person you see...
2021-09-1054 min
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIUncovering Corruption in the California Department of Corrections with DJ Vodicka, Episode 19In this incredible conversation, Eldra Jackson III of Inside Circle talks to DJ Vodicka, a former prison guard and special investigations unit officer in the California prison system. Exposing a corrupt gang of prison guards and officers known as the Green Wall, DJ's experience of institutional corruption, from the warden to the administration and even the prison guard union, drives home yet another problem with the prison industrial complex. The guards and officers at a prison are often corrupt and set up incarcerated people to be abused, treated unfairly, and disrespected. Listen as DJ Vodicka describes how he stood...
2021-08-2741 min
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIBuilding Community with Kat Taylor, Episode 18Kat Taylor is a prolific philanthropist who works with communities to develop the resources they need to thrive. She co-founded Beneficial State Bank and TomKat Ranch, two businesses that focus on creating a more just and sustainable world while also generating profit for the people they serve. In this conversation, what really comes through as extraordinary about Kat's commitment to giving is that it extends throughout her life. She is dedicated to personal growth, communities, family, and the betterment of humanity as a whole. Kat has found a way to weave together outsize impact with real grassroots engagement and...
2021-08-1330 min
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIThe Light of Possibility with Janet Harvey, Episode 17Janet Harvey is the CEO of Invite Change, a coaching organization dedicated to building a world where people love their work. Focusing on generative wholeness, which she writes about in her recent book, Invite the Change: Lessons from 2020, Janet shares about writing this book, nurturing resilience, and her career transition from financial services to supporting leaders. Tune in as Janet Harvey, with brilliant loving kindness, drops pearl after pearl of wisdom throughout this delightful conversation.
2021-07-3038 min
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIWalking Through Fear with Joybelle Phelan, Episode 16After being in and out of prison for almost a decade, Joybelle Phelan transformed herself with the support of communication workshops that revealed the awesome power of doing hard, serious work on herself. Highly committed to sharing her story, Joybelle inspires all of us to confront what scares us most inside ourselves. In this warm conversation, listen as she talks about her background, her journey toward stability and self-acceptance, and how she now works to bring compassion and humanity to all of her interactions.
2021-07-2047 min
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIA Call to Men with Tony Porter, Episode 15Tony Porter is seeking a transformational experience with men - and that does not begin in the head. For Tony, transformation starts in the heart. CEO of A Call To Men, an incredible organization dedicated to preventing violence against women by promoting healthy, respectful manhood, Tony has given TED talks, published a book, and led countless workshops and trainings. This in-depth conversation gets down to his roots, the personal experiences, and deeply held convictions that drive him to be a healer and a hero living and teaching from the heart.
2021-07-0240 min
New Thinking: LeadersBusiness Leaders - Eldra JacksonEldra Jackson is co-executive director of Inside Circle. The non-profit organisation took shape when a race riot occurred on the B-Facility yard of New Folsom Prison in 1996. Today, they run programmes within prisons and the wider community, to empower system-impacted people, lower recidivism rates and build social-emotional literacy. As a writer and public speaker, he has recorded a TEDTalk about his personal journey which has received nearly two million views. In this in-depth conversation, Eldra shares the story of how Inside Circle transformed his life after 24 years in prison, teaching him “acceptance, compassion, forgiveness and love for himself;” discusses his...
2021-06-251h 01
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIII'm Only Here For You with Ashanti Branch, Episode 14Raised by a single mother on welfare in Oakland, Ashanti Branch started his first career as a civil engineer yet later found his true passion was for teaching struggling students. Founder and Executive Director of The Ever Forward Club, a support group that mentors opportunity youth in middle and high school by providing them with safe, brave communities that build character, Ashanti was featured in the documentary, The Mask You Live In, and launched the #MillionMaskMovement to connect people all over the world in a self-reflective experience designed to help them visualize and realize the truth that they are...
2021-06-1855 min
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIWe Are Beautiful with Sam Rivera, episode 13Executive Director of New York Harm Reduction Educators and Inside Circle Facilitator-in-Training, Sam Rivera has transformed the challenges of his youth into an incredible wealth of compassion and knowledge to help others find wellness through his work in harm reduction, education, and services for people struggling with addiction. In conversation with Eldra Jackson of Inside Circle, Sam weaves together the struggles of black and brown people with his own journey of personal growth and finding meaning in his life.
2021-06-0746 min
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIBundles of Stardust with Greg Archer, episode 12In this uplifting conversation author Greg Archer shares his understanding of vulnerability and growth. His book, Grace Revealed, tells the story of his parents' internment in Stalin's concentration camps in the 1930s, and their journey as refugees. Join Greg and Eldra as they uncover the wisdom gained through hardship.
2021-05-2142 min
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIOne Man's Journey with William "Mecca" Elmore, episode 11Join Eldra Jackson as he sits down with William "Mecca" Elmore, author of Prison from the Inside Out: One Man's Journey from a Life Sentence to Freedom. Incarcerated for over 24 years, Mecca is a man who's taken on some of life's greatest challenges and used them to build a dignified, self-realized life. Sharing his experiences with enthusiasm, his strength and resilience shine through every word of this passionate conversation.
2021-05-0745 min
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIILeading from the Heart with Andrew Blum, episode 10Founder and CEO of The Trium Group, Inside Circle Board Member, former Marine Officer, and globally recognized thought leader in the areas of executive and business performance, Andrew Blum takes the messages of Inside Circle — understanding the stories we tell ourselves, leading from the heart, and following your sense of purpose — and shares them with leaders across venture capital, technology, and the Fortune 500. Demonstrating that the benefits of our work are as extraordinary and meaningful for CEOs as they are for the justice-involved, Andrew reminds us that there are kindred spirits in every corner of the world and that we a...
2021-04-2339 min
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIFinding Inside Circle with Eldra Jackson III and Ryan Blum-KrystalOur host Eldra Jackson III had a long, difficult road to find the fulfillment and freedom that he enjoys today. In conversation with his friend and colleague Ryan Blum-Krystal, Eldra shares his personal story, emphasizing how he has integrated and healed from childhood trauma and almost a quarter century of incarceration. The brilliant guiding light behind Inside Circle today, Eldra's wisdom and compassion grow from both personal commitment and community support from other system-impacted people working alongside him to heal themselves and their communities.
2021-04-091h 02
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIWaking up to Reality with Byron Katie, Founder of The Work of Byron KatieWake up to reality with Byron Katie, founder of The Work - four simple questions that will change your life. In a dialogue with host Eldra Jackson III that goes straight to the heart of what's real and raw about transformation, Katie points us directly to the power of integrity and love. Learn more about The Work of Byron Katie at thework.com.
2021-03-2624 min
Higher States with Chloe Park#32 - Eldra Jackson IIIEldra Jackson III is the Co-Director of Inside Circle. At age 19, he was sent to prison with a life sentence. It was there that he began the inner personal journey that eventually led to his early release in 2014.
A living example of successful rehabilitation and re-entry, Eldra is dedicated to serving at-risk youth with organizations such as Youth Empowerment and Goals Association, Shoulder to Shoulder, and the Alternatives to Violence Project.
This is an inspiring story of healing, transformation, service and rebirth. This episode also dives into topics of legalized slavery in prison, race and discrimination, and the importance of...
2021-03-181h 03
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIISource Code with Soren Gordhamer, Founder of the Wisdom 2.0 ConferenceSoren Gordhamer is the founder of Wisdom 2.0, and produces unconventional, consciousness raising events that explore how we can live with awareness and wisdom in our current technology-rich age. In this vulnerable conversation between host Eldra Jackson III and Soren, listeners learn how Soren finds his sense of purpose from a connection with source, and how his history of working with incarcerated youth influences his work with Wisdom 2.0 today.
2021-03-1245 min
Snafu w/ Robin ZanderFinding inner peace through 24 years of solitary confinement with Eldra Jackson III of Inside CircleWelcome back to the Robin Zander Show. My guest today is Eldra Jackson III. Eldra is a TED mainstage speaker and the co-executive director of Inside Circle, a non-profit which works to end cycles of incarceration and recidivism. Eldra was incarcerated for 24 years, with several years of that time spent in solitary confinement. Eldra now spends most of his time sitting with people inside and outside the prison system, helping them uncover their own truths to find greater internal peace. I first met Eldra through a Zander Media client, The Trium Group, where E...
2021-03-0652 min
The Imperfect PodPrison, Strength and Giving Men Permission to Feel with Eldra JacksonEldra Jackson was serving life in New Folsom prison and in and out of the prison system for almost 30 years. This is his journey of rehabilitation, extreme ownership, self work and intense growth. Key themes of the episode:
The desire to be respected and feared in prison
How he had an image of strength as a mask to fear
The choices and impact that solitary confinement had on his life
Why men need permission to feel and explore themselves
The importance of rites of passage and rituals
The origin story of Inside Circle
Releasing negative energy as a source of...
2021-03-0357 min
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIFrom Exploitation to Empathy with Dr. Joseph Betancourt, Medical Doctor at Massachusetts General HospitalExploring the impact of systemic racism on health care for people of color, the call for empathy, and the need to strive for equity, Dr. Joseph Betancourt shares how his Puerto Rican background informs his work and demonstrates the power of a calm, cool, and collected way of being when advocating for ourselves against systems of power. Listen as Inside Circle's host, Eldra Jackson III, leads the dialogue through clear, relatable information about the COVID-19 pandemic and how to find reliable, culturally relevant resources.
2021-02-2641 min
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIQueens of the Circle, Wives and Partners of Incarcerated Men Tell Their StoriesSarah, Rachel, Ciera, Heather, and Holly are all married or in long-term relationships with current or formerly incarcerated men who are part of Inside Circle. With Eldra Jackson III guiding the conversation, they share the joys, challenges, and endless indignities of loving men on the inside. These incredible women urge us to remember the great humanity and love of which we are all capable.
2021-02-1246 min
The Long Distance Love Bombs Podcast109: Eldra Jackson III - Can a life sentence give you a new life?Eldra Jackson III is a writer and public speaker on at-risk youth advocacy, effective criminal justice rehabilitation, and turning around ‘toxic’ masculinity. Eldra brings clarity of purpose, mission focus, and inspiration to his role at Inside Circle. He was an inmate at New Folsom Prison when he found Inside Circle and began the inner personal journey that eventually led to his release in 2014 and his current leadership role. A living example of successful rehabilitation and re-entry, Eldra has dedicated his free time to serving at-risk youth, acting as a facilitator, trainer, and mentor for organizations like Youth Empowerment and Goals...
2021-02-091h 02
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIFrom the High Chair to the Electric Chair with Fritzi Horstman, Founder of Compassion Prison ProjectFritzi Horstman, Founder of Compassion Prison Project, is committed to better understanding the impacts of trauma on mental health and incarceration, and increasing awareness of these issues. With Eldra Jackson of Inside Circle, she shares a thorough explanation of childhood trauma's effects, and digs wholeheartedly into the personal experiences that have shaped her work.
2021-01-2937 min
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIII'm not your cellmate, I'm your soulmate, with Sheila Bruno, Founder of Wife After PrisonWhen her husband started to become angry and withdrawn several years after leaving prison, Sheila Bruno was inspired to create Wife After Prison, a community of mutual support for current and formerly incarcerated people and their families. Sheila and Eldra dive deep into pain, challenges, hope, and love.
2021-01-1543 min
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIISneaking Ain't All Bad with Zayre Eure, Participant in Young Adult Empowerment ProgramAt twenty-three years old, Zayre Eure has already spent eight years in juvenile prison and is building a stable life on the outside with the support of Inside Circle and the Annie E. Casey Foundation's Young Adult Empowerment Program. Hear what unfolds for him after sneaking into his first circle.
2021-01-1539 min
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIRock Formula with Dan Doty, Founder of EvrymanFrom leading 4-month-long wilderness retreats for opportunity youth to teaching high school in New York City, Dan Doty, Founder of the men's group community, Evryman, has been committed to finding work that makes him feel vibrant and connected to our beautiful world. Eldra Jackson of Inside Circle finds inspiration and joy in Dan's experiences overcoming obstacles and staying on his path.
2021-01-1539 min
The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIITrailer: The Inside Circle Podcast with Eldra Jackson IIIWelcome to the Inside Circle podcast with your host Eldra Jackson III. Eldra spent over a decade unlearning dangerous lessons about masculinity and finding freedom while serving 24 years in prison.In conversation with leaders from all walks of life who have overcome some of lifes' greatest challenges, The Inside Circle podcast aims to broaden our concept of personal transformation, 'men's work', and what it means to 'lead change from within'. Beyond the manufactured constructs of race, class, gender, and even criminal history, this deep dive exposes the heart of our shared humanity, revealing prison as an...
2021-01-0602 minSchool For Fathers Podcast#42: WHOLE - Eldra Jackson IIIBeing WHOLE can mean accepting the light and dark sides of ourselves. TED Talker and Co-Exec Director of Inside Circle, Eldra Jackson III joins me for a conversation unpacking toxic masculinity from inside the prison system as an life-sentence inmate to his work with Inside Circle. We talk power + control, gang life, remorse (or lack of) and more. Eldra's perspective on life and his humility is truly refreshing. I'd love to hear your thoughts on this episode - as always, you can email me on danusia@schoolforfathers.com Here's the link to enter the School for M...
2020-09-1147 min
Hur Kan Vi?#119 Eldra Jackson III - Vad gör en man till en man?Idag samtalar Navid med Eldra Jackson III, som medverkade i den omtalade dokumentären ”The Work” (2017).Eldra Jackson III har avtjänat 24 år i fängelse varav 2 av dem spenderades i isolering. Idag arbetar han för organisationen ”Inside Circle” som grundades i New Folsom-fängelset i Sacramento 1996. ”Inside Circle” fokuserar på att stötta och rehabilitera män i deras personliga arbete under tiden de sitter i fängelse. Det var tack vare ”Inside Circle” som Eldra blev frisläppt från en dom som egentligen innefattade livstid. Besök Inside Circle här:www.insidecircle.orgTa del av Eldras TEDTalk här: https://ww...
2020-08-311h 30
The Evolving Man Podcast#48 - The Work. From Prison To Freedom - with Eldra JacksonEldra Jackson III spent a large part of his life as a convict in the US prison system. Inside prison, he encountered a circle of men who led him to overcome his darkness and find healing. He is now the Co-Executive Director of that organization, called Inside Circle. This work was covered in the documentary called The Work. Join me in learning about Eldra’s life story - how he went from serving 24 years of a life prison sentence in California to becoming a successful businessman whose mission is to help heal and mentor other men for wh...
2020-08-2653 min
Voices of EsalenEldra Jackson III on Prison, Toxic Masculinity, and Healing TraumaEldra Jackson III is the co-Executive Director of Inside Circle, a support group that helps incarcerated men heal trauma and take responsibility for their choices. Eldra was featured in The Work, an 2017 documentary film taking place within New Folsom Prison in California, which follows a group healing intensive between members of the public and incarcerated men. It's a remarkable project, one of the best non-fiction films of the last five years, and winner of the SXSW Grand Jury Prize in 2018.
Eldra spent 24 years as an inmate at New Folsom Prison, where he found Inside Circle and began a personal journey...
2020-08-0140 min
What's the Big Idea with Andrew HornEldra Jackson III: Hurt People Hurt People. Healed People Heal People.Eldra Jackson III is a spiritual warrior who lives a passion of "saving lives one circle at a time." After living most of his life devoid of emotions and coming face-to-face with the reality of dying behind bars, he came to a point of self-inquiry, seeking answers as to how his life had spiraled into a mass of destruction set upon self and others. From this point, the space was made to save his life.
Today, Jackson works to bring his spiritual medicine into the world while simultaneously guiding others to tap into their own internal salve a...
2020-04-211h 08
The EVRYMAN PodcastEpisode 115: Inside Circle with Eldra JacksonOn this episode we explore:Childhood traumaInterpersonal workRock bottom to introspectionCircle workBeing the best human you can beSelf knowledge in prisonSacred spacePure, raw, empathyDiscover more about Eldra: https://bit.ly/3ceOJFLhttps://www.ted.com/speakers/eldra_jacksonhttps://twitter.com/eldraj
2020-04-101h 00
How Can We?#009 Eldra Jackson IIIYou might have seen Eldra Jackson III in the documentary "The Work" (2017). Eldra has served 24 years of a life sentence, two of them in solitary. Nowadays, he works for the organization "Inside Circle" which was founded in New Folsom Prison in Sacramento 1996, after a deadly racial rioting. Members of Inside circle, among other things, works as facilitators in men's work inside the prison walls. Sometimes with people from the outside participating. By working the program and rehabilitation of Inside Circle, Eldra was able to be released from prison.
The How can we? podcast is available at Radio Play, Spotify, Itunes...
2020-03-111h 24
The Anna Rova Show#139: From Imprisonment to Healthy Masculinity and Sovereignty with Eldra Jackson III"Eldra Jackson III is a spiritual warrior who lives a passion of 'saving lives one circle at a time.' After living most of his life devoid of emotions and coming face-to-face with the reality of dying behind bars, he came to a point of self-inquiry, seeking answers as to how his life had spiraled into a mass of destruction set upon self and others. From this point, the space was made to save his life. During his time in prison, Jackson was immersed in a deep culture of toxic masculinity. After joining a gang at 14, Jackson...
2020-01-301h 04
TEDTalks Sociedade e CulturaComo quebrar o ciclo da masculinidade tóxica | Eldra JacksonEm uma palestra poderosa, o educador Eldra Jackson III compartilha como ele desaprendeu lições perigosas sobre a masculinidade por meio do Inside Circle, uma organização que lidera a terapia de grupo para homens encarcerados. Agora ele está ajudando os outros a se curarem criando uma nova imagem do que significa ser um homem íntegro e saudável. "O desafio é erradicar este ciclo de analfabetismo emocional e pensamento grupal", diz ele.
2018-12-1811 minTEDTalks Sociedad y CulturaCómo cortar el ciclo del machismo tóxico | Eldra JacksonEn una poderosa charla, el educador Eldra Jackson III comparte cómo a través de "Dentro del Círculo" (Inside Circle), una organización que lleva a cabo terapias grupales para hombres encarcelados, ha desaprendido lecciones peligrosas sobre el machismo. Ahora ayuda a otros a sanarse, creando una nueva imagen de lo que significa ser un hombre sano y completo. El autor dice: "El desafío es erradicar este ciclo de analfabetismo emocional y pensamiento grupal".
2018-12-1811 minTEDTalks Culture et sociétéComment briser le cycle de la masculinité toxique | Eldra JacksonDans une intervention forte, l'éducateur Eldra Jackson III partage comment il a désappris de dangereuses leçons de masculinité via le Cercle interne, une organisation qui conduit des thérapies de groupe pour les prisonniers. Il aide maintenant les autres à guérir en élaborant une nouvelle image de ce que cela signifie d'être un homme entier et sain. « Le défi est d'éradiquer ce cycle d'analphabétisme émotionnel et de pensée de groupe », dit-il.
2018-12-1811 min