Welcome to "Unlikely Connections," where hosts Steph and Kellin share their extraordinary journeys from the depths of the criminal justice system to personal redemption. Steph, a former correctional officer with 13 years of experience navigating the complexities of prison life, joins Kellin, a resilient individual who has transformed his life after overcoming a 15-year battle with opioid addiction and embracing recovery five years ago.

In each episode, we dive into the harsh realities of prison life—sharing gripping stories of murders, riots, and the fight against addiction. Together, we explore the connections between trauma, resilience, and hope, fostering understanding for those affected by incarceration and addiction.

Join us as we challenge preconceived notions, embrace complex stories, and build a community that believes in the power of connection, one episode at a time.

]]>https://riverside.comRiverside.fm (https://riverside.com)Wed, 26 Aug 2026 15:57:53 GMTSun, 12 Apr 2026 22:01:49 GMT60Steph & Kellin<p>Welcome to "Unlikely Connections," where hosts Steph and Kellin share their extraordinary journeys from the depths of the criminal justice system to personal redemption. Steph, a former correctional officer with 13 years of experience navigating the complexities of prison life, joins Kellin, a resilient individual who has transformed his life after overcoming a 15-year battle with opioid addiction and embracing recovery five years ago.<br /><br />In each episode, we dive into the harsh realities of prison life—sharing gripping stories of murders, riots, and the fight against addiction. Together, we explore the connections between trauma, resilience, and hope, fostering understanding for those affected by incarceration and addiction.<br /><br />Join us as we challenge preconceived notions, embrace complex stories, and build a community that believes in the power of connection, one episode at a time.</p>episodicSteph & Kellinsrmarti0627@gmail.comyesOne life lost inside prison walls shouldn't necessarily paralyze a state—but in Colorado, it often does.

In this episode, we pull back the curtain on the intense, volatile reality of prison operations. When a violent incident occurs, the system doesn't just react; it freezes. We’re breaking down the complex security protocols, the high-pressure decision-making, and the massive logistical fallout that happens when a single murder triggers a statewide lockdown.

]]>4200bc9f-4d00-44bd-b1f9-83f4defb34a4Thu, 20 Aug 2026 19:56:19 GMT<p>One life lost inside prison walls shouldn't necessarily paralyze a state—but in Colorado, it often does.<br /><br />In this episode, we pull back the curtain on the intense, volatile reality of prison operations. When a violent incident occurs, the system doesn't just react; it freezes. We’re breaking down the complex security protocols, the high-pressure decision-making, and the massive logistical fallout that happens when a single murder triggers a statewide lockdown.</p>yes01:26:5817Episode 7: The Ripple Effect- Why One Murder Locks Down an Entire StatefullIn Episode Six, we dive into Kellin's powerful story of addiction and the path that led him to homelessness. He opens up about the struggles that consumed his life, revealing how addiction pushed him to the streets and the fight to reclaim his future. This episode is a gripping reminder of the human spirit’s capacity for change and the importance of compassion. Tune in to your favorite podcast platform and witness Kellin's inspiring journey of transformation!

]]>b156482d-7bca-47ff-8c0b-61a1a04b951dMon, 06 Jul 2026 19:23:56 GMT<p>In Episode Six, we dive into Kellin's powerful story of addiction and the path that led him to homelessness. He opens up about the struggles that consumed his life, revealing how addiction pushed him to the streets and the fight to reclaim his future. This episode is a gripping reminder of the human spirit’s capacity for change and the importance of compassion. Tune in to your favorite podcast platform and witness Kellin's inspiring journey of transformation!</p>no00:56:3616Episode 6: Where addiction led mefullIn episode 5 of the Unlikely Connections podcast, we delve into a provocative story about the Executive Director of Prisons in Colorado, who staged a night in prison as a publicity stunt to promote reforms. While intended to shed light on systemic issues, this action sparked significant controversy as it ultimately led to an increase in violence within the prison. This episode unpacks the complexities of prison reform, the unintended consequences of leadership decisions, and the harsh realities of incarceration. Join us for an eye-opening discussion that challenges perceptions and explores the vital need for genuine change in the criminal justice system.

]]>b7b96284-0722-4b76-a7be-1760f01268a7Fri, 15 May 2026 13:06:39 GMT<p>In episode 5 of the Unlikely Connections podcast, we delve into a provocative story about the Executive Director of Prisons in Colorado, who staged a night in prison as a publicity stunt to promote reforms. While intended to shed light on systemic issues, this action sparked significant controversy as it ultimately led to an increase in violence within the prison. This episode unpacks the complexities of prison reform, the unintended consequences of leadership decisions, and the harsh realities of incarceration. Join us for an eye-opening discussion that challenges perceptions and explores the vital need for genuine change in the criminal justice system.</p>no00:43:08Episode 5- The Publicity Stunt in Prison That BackfiredfullIn episode 4 of Unlikely Connections podcast, cohost Kellin opens up about his battle with addiction, revealing how he funded his drug habit and navigated the turbulent waters of recovery. The conversation touches on "dispatch dope," a term that hints at the risky behaviors associated with obtaining drugs. Kellin shares his personal experiences, illustrating the challenges of addiction and the transformative journey toward sobriety. This episode emphasizes the power of connection and support in overcoming life's hurdles, making it a compelling listen for anyone seeking understanding and inspiration on the path to recovery.

]]>d4a862b4-eef0-4222-b6cf-85ef12e67436Thu, 07 May 2026 15:44:55 GMT<p>In episode 4 of Unlikely Connections podcast, cohost Kellin opens up about his battle with addiction, revealing how he funded his drug habit and navigated the turbulent waters of recovery. The conversation touches on "dispatch dope," a term that hints at the risky behaviors associated with obtaining drugs. Kellin shares his personal experiences, illustrating the challenges of addiction and the transformative journey toward sobriety. This episode emphasizes the power of connection and support in overcoming life's hurdles, making it a compelling listen for anyone seeking understanding and inspiration on the path to recovery.</p>no00:42:50Episode 4- How did you fund your drug habit?fullIn this heartfelt episode of "Unlikely Connections," Steph and Kellin explore the complexities of love within the prison system. They dive into how inmates find connection and romance despite the challenging environment and uncertainty surrounding them.

The episode also discusses the dynamics that unfold when staff members develop romantic relationships, examining the implications for both the individuals involved and the institution. With personal stories and insights, they address the challenges and joys of finding love in unexpected places.

Join them for an engaging conversation that uncovers the intricate balance of emotion and duty, revealing how love can thrive even behind bars. Don't miss this exploration of relationships that transcend boundaries!

]]>bed8a8ca-9d72-4bbf-9d24-6b122cb4be84Wed, 29 Apr 2026 21:22:54 GMT<p>In this heartfelt episode of "Unlikely Connections," Steph and Kellin explore the complexities of love within the prison system. They dive into how inmates find connection and romance despite the challenging environment and uncertainty surrounding them.<br /><br />The episode also discusses the dynamics that unfold when staff members develop romantic relationships, examining the implications for both the individuals involved and the institution. With personal stories and insights, they address the challenges and joys of finding love in unexpected places.<br /><br />Join them for an engaging conversation that uncovers the intricate balance of emotion and duty, revealing how love can thrive even behind bars. Don't miss this exploration of relationships that transcend boundaries!</p>yes01:42:5813Episode 3: Love Behind BarsfullIn this episode of "Unlikely Connections," Steph and Kellin tackle the critical issue of staff misconduct within the prison system. Drawing from her firsthand experience as an investigator for these issues in a high-custody male prison, Steph highlights unsettling behaviors from colleagues that can have serious consequences.

They discuss what staff misconduct looks like, its impact on both inmates and other staff members, and the challenges in addressing such behavior. With gripping tales and insights into the dynamics of power and accountability, this episode uncovers the complexities of integrity behind prison walls.

Join them for an eye-opening conversation that reveals the realities of prison life and the essential need for professionalism in maintaining safety and order. Don’t forget to subscribe to "Unlikely Connections" for more revealing episodes and insightful discussions. Tune in now and be part of the conversation!

]]>be91024f-d7bc-4855-a365-59d9393c98abTue, 21 Apr 2026 00:14:51 GMT<p>In this episode of "Unlikely Connections," Steph and Kellin tackle the critical issue of staff misconduct within the prison system. Drawing from her firsthand experience as an investigator for these issues in a high-custody male prison, Steph highlights unsettling behaviors from colleagues that can have serious consequences.<br /><br />They discuss what staff misconduct looks like, its impact on both inmates and other staff members, and the challenges in addressing such behavior. With gripping tales and insights into the dynamics of power and accountability, this episode uncovers the complexities of integrity behind prison walls.<br /><br />Join them for an eye-opening conversation that reveals the realities of prison life and the essential need for professionalism in maintaining safety and order. Don’t forget to subscribe to "Unlikely Connections" for more revealing episodes and insightful discussions. Tune in now and be part of the conversation!</p>no01:14:23Episode 2: Behind the Scenes of Staff MisconductfullWelcome to "Unlikely Connections," the podcast where unexpected journeys of life inside the prison system meet the inspiring path to recovery. Join your hosts, Steph, a former correctional officer in a high-custody male prison, and Kellin, a determined individual who has triumphed over addiction.

In each episode of "Unlikely Connections," Steph opens the door to her firsthand experiences, sharing chilling tales of violence, unrest, and resilience, including the intense moments of riots, escapes, and staff misconduct. Her unique perspectives highlight the challenges faced by women in a male-dominated environment and the lessons learned through adversity.

Kellin brings to the table his inspiring story of perseverance and hope. He shares what it took to overcome the odds and live a fulfilling life in recovery, shedding light on the struggles and triumphs that many face along the way.

Together, they create a space for candid discussions that bridge their worlds, exploring the intersections of struggle, redemption, and—yes—those "Unlikely Connections." Tune in as they uncover powerful stories that foster understanding and inspire change.

Subscribe now to join this compelling journey and be part of the dialogue that matters!

]]>b83d8a95-514c-4497-9030-1740e03d03ccTue, 21 Apr 2026 00:09:23 GMT<p>Welcome to "Unlikely Connections," the podcast where unexpected journeys of life inside the prison system meet the inspiring path to recovery. Join your hosts, Steph, a former correctional officer in a high-custody male prison, and Kellin, a determined individual who has triumphed over addiction.<br /><br />In each episode of "Unlikely Connections," Steph opens the door to her firsthand experiences, sharing chilling tales of violence, unrest, and resilience, including the intense moments of riots, escapes, and staff misconduct. Her unique perspectives highlight the challenges faced by women in a male-dominated environment and the lessons learned through adversity.<br /><br />Kellin brings to the table his inspiring story of perseverance and hope. He shares what it took to overcome the odds and live a fulfilling life in recovery, shedding light on the struggles and triumphs that many face along the way.<br /><br />Together, they create a space for candid discussions that bridge their worlds, exploring the intersections of struggle, redemption, and—yes—those "Unlikely Connections." Tune in as they uncover powerful stories that foster understanding and inspire change.<br /><br />Subscribe now to join this compelling journey and be part of the dialogue that matters!</p>no00:57:01Making an Unlikely Connectionfull