The Lasting Impact of Leadership in Corrections with Warden Doug Fender
Doug Fender, the Warden of a prominent Ohio correctional facility, joins The Last Mile Radio to discuss his transformative approach to criminal justice. With a career spanning 27 years, Fender has held various leadership roles, including at Crossroads Correctional Facility in Montana, where he made a significant impact on incarcerated individuals, including host Ryan Leaf. Known for championing rehabilitation over punishment, Fender advocates for innovative programs and reentry strategies that address recidivism, earning recognition for his progressive outlook in the corrections field.
“Hope is job one. You have to give people hope because, one day, they’ll be our neighbors again. The way we treat them now determines the kind of person they will be when they reenter society, and it’s our responsibility to help them believe in a better future.”
In this deeply reflective episode, Fender shares stories of hope, empathy, and the evolving role of corrections. He recounts pivotal moments, like encouraging Leaf to speak to students during his incarceration, highlighting the power of purpose and community engagement. The conversation explores the systemic challenges of the criminal justice system, the need for comprehensive reentry programs, and the critical role of family and education in supporting reintegration. Fender emphasizes breaking the status quo by prioritizing human dignity, illustrating how small acts of respect can spark monumental change.
Episode Outline
(00:00:00) Introduction
(00:02:00) Doug Fender’s Background
(00:06:00) The Role of Hope in Corrections
(00:10:15) Ryan Leaf’s Incarceration Experience
(00:16:45) Breaking Stereotypes in Corrections
(00:22:00) The Importance of Rehabilitation Programs
(00:28:30) Challenges in Reentry and Recidivism
(00:35:00) The Last Mile’s Impact
(00:40:00) Humanizing the Justice System
(00:46:30) Personal Stories of Redemption
(00:51:00) Closing Reflections
Episode Resources
Crossroads Correctional Facility: