#51 - Andre Edmund: Murder, 31 Years in a Los Angeles Prison, Addiction, Redemption, Gang Violence, Racism, Corruption & Redefining Freedom

Believe in People: Addiction, Recovery & Stigma

Join Matt as he speaks with Andre, a man who spent over three decades in a Los Angeles prison following convictions for armed robbery and murder.
Opening with a reflection on the crime that led to his incarceration, Andre recounts the impulsivity and desperation of his actions, compounded by grief and addiction. His story unfolds into a broader exploration of life within the harsh confines of the U.S. prison system, characterised by rampant gang culture, racial tension, and systemic corruption.

What makes Andre’s narrative especially gripping is his introspective analysis of the choices that led to his incarceration and the survival strategies that enabled him to endure. From navigating violence and segregation to finding solace and guidance in spirituality, Andre's transformation serves as a testament to the human capacity for growth, even in the most oppressive circumstances.

The episode doesn’t stop at recounting past struggles but extends to Andre’s current life. Now living in the UK following deportation, he candidly discusses the challenges of reintegration, from adapting to modern technology to coping with the lingering trauma of his past. His entrepreneurial ventures and commitment to helping others, including returning to prisons as a mentor, highlight his ongoing journey of making amends and contributing positively to society.

This episode will resonate with listeners who have experienced incarceration, addiction, or systemic injustice, as well as those seeking to understand these complex issues.

Click here to text our host, Matt, directly!

Believe in People explores addiction, recovery and stigma.
For our full back catalogue you can visit our website ⬇️
www.believeinpeoplepodcast.com
If you or someone you know is struggling then this series can help.
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We'd like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Christopher Tait of the band Belle Ghoul & Electric Six for allowing us to use the track Jonathan Tortoise. Thank you, Chris, for being a part of this journey with us.

Capitole

1. Life After 31 Years in Prison (00:00:00)

2. Prison Life in America (00:07:41)

3. Prison Survival and Distancing From Gangs (00:15:28)

4. Navigating Religion and Corruption in Prison (00:23:21)

5. Prison Corruption and Violence (00:30:07)

6. From Prison to Entrepreneurship (00:37:38)

7. Prison Experience and Redemption Journey (00:46:58)

8. Cycle of Gang Membership and Addiction (00:58:05)

9. Defining Freedom After Long Incarceration (01:06:36)

10. Life Aspirations and Podcast Promotion (01:10:30)