The 98% - Life After Prison
This podcast is dedicated to the 98% of people incarcerated in North Carolina who will eventually be released from prison back into their communities, often with few, if any resources. Through the voices of people in transition and those who support them, we explore hurdles and life long barriers many justice-involved people confront whether getting a drivers license, finding housing, or trying to find a job. We examine issues like substance use disorder and mental health that plague this population and ask what we as a society can do to support the formerly incarcerated and reduce recidivism.
In 2023, Judy Van Wyk and April Barber partnered to create a podcast about the many issues people face when transitioning from prison. Van Wyk is a producer and criminal justice advocate. April Barber received a life sentence when she was 15. After more than 31 years, she had her sentence commuted by Governor Cooper. She was released March 24, 2022.
ART WORK BY JOHN HARDIN
The 98% - Life After Prison
Latest Episodes
Making the Most of a Second Chance
Jorgie Brown was released in May, 2025 after five years in prison. She was lucky enough to find stable housing and wrap-around services with Arise Collective, one of the few programs in North Carolina that provides transitional housing fo...
Reentry 2030: Changing How We Approach Incarceration
In 2024, North Carolina signed on to an ambitious national initiative to reduce recidivism and break the ongoing cycle of incarceration. Reentry 2030 brings together people across all sectors of government to work collaboratively with com...
On a Mission with a Purpose: April talks Peer Support and more...
In the latest installment of April's On a Mission series, she gives us an update on her decision to pursue a master's degree in clinical social work. She describes the work of a Peer Support Specialist and explains why it's an attractive job fo...
Talking About Post Incarceration Syndrome
No doubt, incarceration is a traumatic experience, often filled with guilt, shame and rage, not to mention the habits you learn to survive and cope. Upon release, people carry that trauma into a world that’s overwhelming and often unwelc...
Fan Mail
Good morning, I hope this message finds you well. I am reaching out regarding House Bill 589, the Second Look Act in NC. I have a loved one who is currently incarcerated and have been closely following this legislation. Although it did not advance to the floor this session, it is expected to be refiled in April 2026. My district representative advised that he would review and consider supporting the bill if it reaches the floor next session. I was also encouraged to help raise public awareness, as community engagement could be vital to its progress. If possible, I would greatly appreciate it if you could bring attention to the Second Look Act in a future podcast episode to help inform and inspire public support. Thank you for your time and consideration!
Elkin, North Carolina