In this week’s webinar, my partners Scotty Carper and Michael led a discussion focused on strategies for preparing both mentally and practically for federal prison. Scotty interviewed Michael, addressing key areas that can help you approach this experience with a clear, proactive mindset.
The conversation emphasized that while facing federal prison is undeniably tough, having a plan in place can make a big difference.
Michael shared that although prison is challenging, it doesn’t have to define or break you. They discussed the power of personal accountability—while you can’t always control your circumstances, you can control how you respond to them. Each of us has the ability to be the “CEO of our life,” focusing on what we can influence moving forward. (This CEO message is amongst my favorite from Michael’s).
Michael highlighted the importance of building a structured plan, setting goals, and developing the right resources to help manage this process effectively. They also spoke about how prison experiences differ based on the facility, whether it’s a minimum-security camp or a high-security prison. Regardless of where someone is placed, there’s always a way to find meaning and purpose, even in tough situations.
On a practical level, they addressed the need to anticipate obstacles—like difficulty accessing educational or vocational programs due to systemic issues. Michael emphasized that taking ownership of your development is essential. Journaling, creating daily habits, and documenting progress are key strategies for demonstrating growth. These efforts don’t just help pass the time—they create tangible evidence for stakeholders like case managers and judges to see your progress.
Boredom in prison is common, and they encouraged viewers to focus on self-improvement, whether through reading, participating in programs, or self-directed learning. The message was clear: staying focused on growth is vital.
Lastly, they touched on the broader issue of advocacy. Michael has worked hard on creating educational programs for those inside, offering tools to prepare for life after prison. While system-wide changes may be slow, the focus was on what individuals can control—working towards long-term goals and personal development.
If you missed the live session, you can catch the full replay here. As always, feel free to reach out with any questions or thoughts—we’re here to help.
Justin Paperny