Today’s episode is genuinely special to me. You’ll hear from Derek, my college teacher, who played a monumental role in my journey toward redemption and transformation. When I first returned to education after serving time in prison, I was filled with self-doubt and uncertainty. Derek’s unwavering belief in me and his unique approach to teaching psychology brought about a profound change in my life.

We’ll dive into Derek’s background, his inspiring transition from a life in the Royal Air Force to becoming an empowering educator, and how he applied the study of psychology to everyday challenges. Through our conversation, you’ll see the power of supportive mentorship and clear expectations, making education more than just acquiring knowledge – it’s about reclaiming one’s sense of purpose and potential.

Together, we reflect on the struggles and breakthroughs that come with re-entering society and the classroom after imprisonment. Derek and I also explore the parallels between our experiences in different institutional settings – Derek, as a former serviceman, and me as a former inmate – and how we used those experiences to build a meaningful connection.

What makes this episode incredibly moving is revisiting the critical life events that marked this journey, including the profound impact of my mother’s passing and how Derek supported me through that difficult time. It’s a story of resilience, grace under pressure, and the pursuit of a second chance.

Join us as we unpack these personal stories, providing insights into restorative justice’s enduring power and the redeeming potential education holds. This episode is a testament to the transformative impact that accountability, empathy, and a strong support system can have.

Tune in to feel inspired and to understand that our past does not define us – it’s our choices and the people who believe in us that do.

Key Moments

00:03:13 Derek’s Role at the College. Derek explains his role as Head of Academy, where he supported students who had struggled in traditional school settings—something I could relate to.

00:04:34 An Unexpected Teaching Role. Derek shares how he unexpectedly became a psychology teacher after a surge in student interest, a decision that would end up shaping both of our journeys.

00:06:11 Why I Joined Derek’s Class. I talk about what drew me to psychology and why I felt I needed someone like Derek to hold me accountable and guide me as I tried to rebuild my life.

00:07:36 Building a Supportive Learning Environment. Derek describes how he created a structured yet encouraging space in the classroom, helping students—including me—develop teamwork and confidence.

00:10:18 Opening Up About My Past. I share the moment I decided to tell Derek about my time in prison—a decision that deepened our trust and changed the way I approached learning.

00:12:57 Leaving Institutions Behind. Derek and I reflect on the mental and emotional challenges of leaving structured environments—me from prison, and him from the armed forces—and how we both had to adapt.

00:14:52 How Psychology Changed My Perspective. Studying psychology wasn’t just about passing exams—it helped me understand my own behaviour, break free from old patterns, and see the world differently.

00:19:45 My Growth in the Classroom. Derek recalls how I went from sitting quietly in class to actively engaging and even helping others understand complex ideas—something I never imagined myself doing.

00:21:05 Coping with Personal Loss. I open up about one of the toughest moments of my life—losing my mum just before exams—and how Derek’s support helped me push through that grief and keep going.

00:24:27 The Moment It All Paid Off. I reflect on the day I got my exam results, including top marks in psychology, and the overwhelming feeling of validation that came with seeing my hard work pay off.

00:26:00 The Impact of Education. Derek and I discuss how even short-lived educational experiences can have a lasting effect, shaping the way we move forward in life.

00:28:45 Gratitude and Looking Ahead. I close out the conversation by thanking the educators, mentors, and service personnel who play a crucial role in helping people find their way—even when they don’t realise it at the time.

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