Episode 77, Part 2: Ivan Embry at Putnamville Correctional Facility
- 25:11
- March 10, 2025
From Prison to Purpose: Rewriting Your Story with Ivan From Putnamville
Ivan Embry is a student in The Last Mile program at the Indiana Department of Correction, where he is transforming his life through education, creativity, and personal growth. Before entering the program, Ivan spent years caught in the cycle of incarceration, struggling with addiction, crime, and the weight of his past choices. Now, as he prepares for his release in 2025 after a decade behind bars, he is channeling his energy into music production, writing, and personal development, proving that rehabilitation and second chances are not just possible but powerful.
“I used to think prison was just about doing time, following the same routine, and waiting for the day they opened the gate. But I realized that if I didn’t make a change in here, nothing would be different when I got out. I had to stop blaming the world, stop making excuses, and start taking responsibility for my own change. That was the hardest part—admitting to myself that I was the only one who could change my life. Once I did that, everything started to shift. Now, I don’t just want to get out. I want to be better when I do.”
In this interview, Ivan shares how The Last Mile provided him with a renewed sense of purpose, shifting his mindset from survival to self-improvement. He reflects on his journey from a destructive lifestyle to discovering his passion for sound production, storytelling, and creative expression. He speaks candidly about the challenges of incarceration, the importance of surrounding himself with positive influences, and the struggles of maintaining hope in an environment designed to strip it away. He also opens up about his deep connection to music and writing, revealing that he has completed his first novel and is working towards a career in film and audio engineering upon release. His reflections on family, accountability, and personal growth offer a compelling look into the emotional and psychological transformation that occurs when someone commits to real change.
Episode Outline
(00:00:00) Introduction
(00:01:00) Discovering Purpose Through The Last Mile
(00:03:00) Family and the Impact of Incarceration
(00:05:00) Navigating Prison and Staying Focused on Growth
(00:07:00) The Power of Music and Creative Expression
(00:09:00) Finding Positive Influences and Personal Growth
(00:11:00) The Importance of Family Support
(00:12:00) Preparing for Life After Prison
(00:14:00) Overcoming Self-Doubt and Embracing Change
(00:16:00) The Rebirth of a New Perspective
(00:18:00) Staying Connected and Seeking Support After Release
(00:19:00) Writing as a Creative and Professional Outlet
(00:21:00) Career Aspirations in Film and Sound Design
(00:22:00) Closing Reflections and Acknowledgments
Episode Resources:
Newsletter
© 2025 The Last Mile