A groundbreaking podcast creator who spent over 20 years behind bars has captured the attention of California's highest office.
According to The Hill, California Governor Gavin Newsom granted a pardon to Earlonne Woods, the creator of "Ear Hustle," the first podcast produced entirely within prison walls, as part of his Thanksgiving eve clemency actions.
Woods, who transformed his life through storytelling and media production, developed "Ear Hustle" during his incarceration at San Quentin State Prison.
The podcast has achieved remarkable success, amassing more than 80 million downloads and attracting listeners nationwide through platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Woods' journey through the criminal justice system began in 1989 when he received a 10-year sentence at age 17 for burglary and kidnapping of a drug dealer in Los Angeles.
His path took another turn when he faced additional charges a decade later, resulting in a sentence of 31 years to life for assault and attempted robbery.
During his time at San Quentin, Woods discovered a new purpose through podcasting. His innovative approach to storytelling from behind prison walls garnered significant attention and respect from both listeners and corrections officials. The success of "Ear Hustle" demonstrated his commitment to personal growth and positive community impact.
Former California Governor Jerry Brown recognized Woods' transformation in November 2018, leading to the commutation of his sentence. Brown's decision acknowledged the profound changes in Woods' character and his positive influence on fellow inmates through his creative work.
Woods reflected on the significance of his recent pardon, stating:
Many of us who have transformed our mindsets and lives and who are working to help others, continue to encounter negative stigma and barriers based on things associated with our past. This type of thinking can prevent someone from getting a job or traveling freely. This pardon eliminates those judgments on me, and makes it easier for me to do more effective work in the community.
The pardon represents more than just legal redemption for Woods. It opens doors for new professional opportunities, including a collaboration with Morgan Freeman's entertainment company on an upcoming docuseries.
Governor Newsom's official announcement praised Woods' achievements, noting:
The work he has done to transform himself has provided evidence that he is living an upright life.
Woods was among 19 individuals granted pardons by Governor Newsom during the Thanksgiving eve clemency actions. His case stands as a testament to the power of rehabilitation and creative expression in the criminal justice system.
The success of "Ear Hustle" has established Woods as a pioneering voice in prison reform and media innovation. Through his podcast, he has created a platform that bridges the gap between incarcerated individuals and the outside world, fostering understanding and dialogue about the realities of prison life.