In this episode of "Living on the List," host Matt Duhamel interviews Doug, who shares his experiences and challenges of living as a registered sex offender in Nebraska. They discuss Nebraska's strict laws and lifetime parole supervision, as well as the social and emotional struggles that come with being on the sex offender registry. Doug opens up about his past mistakes and the difficulties he faces in finding stable housing and employment due to his status. They also explore the fear and stigma surrounding sex offenders when it comes to building relationships and making friends. They touch on the need for better understanding and differentiation among offenders based on the severity of their crimes. Doug shares his hopes for a more fulfilling life and the desire to help others despite the guilt he carries.

This thought-provoking episode challenges societal perceptions and emphasizes the importance of empathy and second chances. Tune in to hear Doug share his story and shed light on the realities of living on the sex offender registry.

Lisa's world turned upside down when her son was convicted of possession of explicit images involving minors. She takes us through the heart-wrenching aftermath of his arrest and the devastating impact of the criminal justice system. Throughout the episode, Lisa sheds light on the misconceptions and judgment she and her son face daily. We explore the limitations placed on registered offenders, the challenges of finding employment and housing, and the strain on personal relationships.

Lisa's story highlights the urgent need for reform as she questions the effectiveness of the sex offender registry. This thought-provoking conversation challenges societal perceptions and emphasizes the importance of support and understanding.

Tune in for an eye-opening discussion that will make you question the stigma surrounding sex offenses and the implications it has on individuals and their families.

Topics Discussed:

1. The personal experience of a mother with a son on the sex offender registry.

2. The impact of the criminal justice system on registered offenders.

3. Challenges faced by registered offenders in finding employment and housing.

4. The stigma and judgment faced by families of offenders.

5. Critiques of the sex offender registry system.

6. Advocacy for reform and support for registered offenders.

In this episode of Living on the List, host Matt Duhamel interviews Steve from Nebraskans Unafraid, an organization advocating for the rights and dignity of individuals and families living on the sex offense registry. They discuss the origin of their FEARLESS program and Nebraskans Unafraid mission statement. Despite facing societal judgment and ignorance, they refuse to hide and accept mistreatment. The conversation also touches on the Nebraska version of the Adam Walsh Act, which expanded the public registry to include all individuals convicted of a sex crime. Tune in to learn more about the challenges and advocacy efforts of those living on the sex offense registry.

[00:04:21] False sense of security.

[00:07:15] Starting your own business.

[00:11:01] Nebraskans Unafraid goals.

[00:14:26] Overcoming shame and advocating.

RESOURCES:
Nebraskans Unafraid website
NARSOL FEARLESS Group
Daves Killer Bread (Host references company that hires the formely incarcerated)

[00:04:21] False sense of security. [00:07:15] Starting your own business. [00:11:01] Nebraskans unafraid goals. [00:14:26] Overcoming shame and advocating.

In this latest episode of "Living On the List" host Matt Duhamel dives into conversations with married couple, Mitch and Sarah. Mitch, a person forced to register, shares his journey from victimhood to spending time in jail and being on the sex offense registry since 2011. Sarah, his wife, lays bare the tremendous impact and the frustrations of living with a husband on the registry. Together, they discuss the family plans put on hold, the dream of having children one day, and the restrictions they face navigating the registry in Wisconsin. Join us as they share their harrowing experiences, fight against the odds, and their pursuit of a normal life. Tune in to explore deeper into the realities of people forced to register and catch a glimpse of living on the registry.

Topics discussed:

1. Mitch's offense and journey to the sex offense registry.

2. The impact of living on the registry and the decision to not have children.

3. Concerns about potential bullying of future children.

4. Issues with registry compliance.

5. Challenges faced by sex offenders in society.

6. The fight to get off the registry.

7. The process of advocacy and support.

Resources:

One-Stop Resources, Wisconsin
Sex Offender Reddit Support

I am excited to welcome you to the latest Rejected Podcast episode, where I had the honor of sitting down with Dr. Eric Wesselmann, a professor of psychology at Illinois State University who explores the world of social exclusion and ostracism.

In this riveting conversation, we dive deep into the feeling of being ignored and the different terminologies within the realm of social exclusion. Dr. Wesselmann sheds light on how being treated as invisible leads to added discomfort, and we discuss how marginalized groups are most likely to be devalued by those in power.

As we continue our discussion, Dr. Wesselmann shares numerous revelations: ongoing social rejection may lead to a shorter lifespan and susceptibility to disease, and, in some cases, excluded individuals may become angry enough to turn to violence. We also touch upon the importance of seeking therapy to cope with social ostracism, especially for those involved in the criminal justice system.

You don't want to miss out on this educational episode full of insights and information about the Cyberball study. Hit play and join us on this captivating journey through the world of social ostracism.

Summary:

- Social exclusion and ostracism

- The psychological effects of feeling ignored

- Cultural marginalization and power dynamics

- Chronic negative arousal and its impact on health

- The link between exclusion and aggressive behavior

- The Cyberball study – a laboratory exploration of ostracism

- Importance of therapy for those facing exclusion

- Recommended resources/books on ostracism

Resources:

Ostracism: The Power of Silence [PAPERBACK] [2002] [By Kipling D. Williams PhD]

Loneliness: Human Nature and the Need for Social Connection

Social: Why Our Brains Are Wired to Connect

Download Cyberball 5

About the Guest:

Eric D. Wesselmann, PhD, is a professor of psychology at Illinois State University. His main research interests are on the dynamics of social inclusion and exclusion. He also has published on topics such as sexual harassment, stigmatization, religion/spirituality, moral decision-making, and the psychology fandom, media, and popular culture (e.g., film/comics/music).

In this podcast episode, we welcome Jonathan who shares his heartbreaking experiences of being on the sex offender registry; a label that automatically ostracizes him from the community. Jonathan tells us how this punishment not only affects himself but also the lives of his family who suffer emotionally, financially, and socially.

As we listen to Jonathan's painful experiences of rejection from housing, employment, and even churches, we realize the difficult life he leads – likening himself to a social outcast. He speaks about the numerous companies that ripped away job offers after background checks, his depression and loneliness, and his desire for people to be more compassionate and understanding.

In this powerful episode, discover how people like Jonathan, who is a part of a marginalized group, have their sense of purpose, accomplishment, and grace challenged every day. Explore how misinformation and emotional responses contribute to the struggle faced by the ostracized, and how rejecting people from resources ultimately leads to poorer community safety.