
#124 Jason Flom with Damien Echols in Times of COVID
Explicit content warning
04/13/20 • 34 min
5 Listeners
COVID 19 has derailed our normal lives into that of isolation, restricted movement, anxiety, despair, and even the threat of death. Jason Flom knows a lot of people that have an intimate knowledge of all of these things and how to cope with them.
In the first interview of a new mini series from Wrongful Conviction Podcasts Jason Flom speaks with Damien Echols, a man who spent 18 years on death row for a crime he did not commit.
Damien tells us how he used exercise, art, structure, mental focus, and free will to not allow isolation and fear to break him plus, an epiphany that came from one man’s deadly encounter with a can of corn that continues to guide him even through our current shared reality in this time of COVID.
Wrongful Conviction is a production of Lava for GoodTM Podcasts in association with Signal Co. No1.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
COVID 19 has derailed our normal lives into that of isolation, restricted movement, anxiety, despair, and even the threat of death. Jason Flom knows a lot of people that have an intimate knowledge of all of these things and how to cope with them.
In the first interview of a new mini series from Wrongful Conviction Podcasts Jason Flom speaks with Damien Echols, a man who spent 18 years on death row for a crime he did not commit.
Damien tells us how he used exercise, art, structure, mental focus, and free will to not allow isolation and fear to break him plus, an epiphany that came from one man’s deadly encounter with a can of corn that continues to guide him even through our current shared reality in this time of COVID.
Wrongful Conviction is a production of Lava for GoodTM Podcasts in association with Signal Co. No1.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Previous Episode

#123 Wrongful Conviction: False Confessions - Hamid Hayat
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This week, Laura Nirider and Steve Drizin tell us a story with some of the most outlandish false confessions ever heard. And yet, California native, Hamid Hayat, was wrongfully convicted of terrorism in the years following the horrific 9/11 attacks. Investigators thought Hamid was part of a terrorist sleeper cell, though eventually they learned no such terrorist cell ever existed.
To donate, learn more, or get involved, go to: http://www.law.northwestern.edu/legalclinic/wrongfulconvictions/
Wrongful Conviction: False Confessions is a production of Lava for GoodTM Podcasts in association with Signal Co No1.
Learn more and get involved at https://www.wrongfulconvictionpodcast.com/false-confessions
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Next Episode

#125 Wrongful Conviction: False Confessions - Billy Wayne Cope
Could I have somehow done this and not remembered it?
Laura Nirider and Steve Drizin bring us the story of Billy Wayne Cope- a father and husband, a man of faith, and one of many railroaded into a false confession. The interrogation techniques were so potent that Billy even started questioning his own memory. Though DNA evidence pointed to the real killer, prosecutors refused to acknowledge Billy's innocence. This case will stay with you. It certainly left a mark on Steve.
To donate, learn more, or get involved, go to: http://www.law.northwestern.edu/legalclinic/wrongfulconvictions/
Wrongful Conviction: False Confessions is a production of Lava for GoodTM Podcasts in association with Signal Co No1.
Learn more and get involved at https://www.wrongfulconvictionpodcast.com/false-confessions
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wrongful Conviction - #124 Jason Flom with Damien Echols in Times of COVID
Transcript Summary
In this episode titled "#124 Jason Flom with Damien Echols in Times of COVID," listeners are introduced to a mini-series on wrongful convictions during the COVID-19 pandemic. The episode features an interview with Damien Echols, a man who spent 18 years on death row for a crime he didn't commit. Echols discusses the coping mechanisms he developed during his time in prison, emphasizing the importance of focusing on the present and creating structure in one's life. He shares the story of a humorous encounter with a schizophrenic inmate during a sewage backup, highlighting the power of levity in dark times. The episode also explores the idea that destruction is necessary for creation, and that the current situation may lead to positive changes and a greater appreciation for life. Listeners are encouraged to support the Innocence Project and find inspiration in Echols' perspective and gratitude. Overall, this episode offers a compelling exploration of resilience, personal growth, and finding meaningful ways to navigate challenging circumstances.
Transcript
Welcome to a brand new mini series, Wrongful Conviction with Jason Flam In the time of COVID. You know, COVID nineteen has totally derailed our normal lives and spun us into a new strange world of isolation, restricted movement, anxiety, despair, and even the threat of death. And it occurred to me that I know a lot of people that have an intimate knowledge of all these things and much much worse, and they know how to cope with them. So I've asked
#124 Jason Flom with Damien Echols in Times of COVID Top Questions Answered
How is New York described in relation to its inhabitants?
New York is described as a special place with a symbiotic relationship with its inhabitants.
What is the belief discussed regarding the current global situation?
The belief discussed is that something good will come out of the current global situation and its impact on society.
What advice is given to those confined in small spaces or alone?
Advice is given to surround oneself with things that inspire and make one feel good, such as free online concerts, courses, and comedy shows.
What is the message delivered at the end of the podcast episode?
The podcast ends with a message of gratitude, appreciation for life, recognition for essential workers, and the importance of supporting the Innocence Project.
What is the new mini-series introduced by Jason Flom?
Jason Flom introduces a new mini-series called "Wrongful Conviction with Jason Flom In the time of COVID" where individuals with unique experiences share how they cope with isolation and fear.
How did Damian Echols cope during his time on death row?
Damian Echols coped by using exercise, structure, mental focus, and creating a life for himself to avoid constant fear and misery.
What activities does Damian Echols suggest to occupy and improve the mind?
Damian Echols suggests creating a schedule, cleaning, exercising, and reading as activities to occupy and improve the mind.
What is the importance of not dwelling on the future according to Damian Echols?
Damian Echols emphasizes the importance of not dwelling on the future and not consuming media that breeds fear.
What resources does Damian Echols recommend for exercise routines?
Damian Echols recommends finding online resources, including a specific YouTube channel, for exercise routines.
What does Damian Echols highlight as important for personal growth?
Damian Echols highlights the need to find one's life's work and focus on personal growth.
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