EP 230: The Sociology of Survival... A Conversation with Dr. Charlie Barnao
Episode Summary: In a justice system often obsessed with risk scores and compliance checklists, what happens when we stop and ask a deeper question: How have you survived? In this powerful episode, Joseph Arvidson sits down with Dr. Charlie Barnao, sociologist, ethnographer, and professor at the University of Palermo, to explore the hidden strength behind the stories of justice-involved individuals. Dr. Barnao spent 15 years living in a halfway house—not observing from the outside, but embedded in the day-to-day realities of those navigating the margins. His work on the Sociology of Survival offers a critical lens for probation, parole, and correctional professionals who want to truly understand resilience, identity, and change. Together, they dive into: What survival looks like in environments of exclusion and stigma How resilience and identity are built—and rebuilt—through supervision Why qualitative insights (real stories) matter as much as data points How the wrong labels can blur the professional lens—and harm outcomes Direct ties to the TIDES Supervision Model pillars of Resiliency, Identity, and Social Support This episode challenges listeners to see beyond behavior—to recognize survival as strength, and to partner with that strength to create real, lasting change. Whether you're a probation officer, trainer, policymaker, or simply passionate about justice transformation—this conversation will reframe how you think about your work. Guest Bio: Dr. Charlie Barnao is a Professor of Sociology at the University of Palermo (Italy), a scholar in cultural and communicative processes, and an ethnographer dedicated to exploring social marginality, survival, and resilience. His immersive research brings critical insights into how individuals adapt to exclusion and how systems can better support real transformation. Key Topics Covered: Understanding the “Sociology of Survival” Lessons for probation and correctional practice Why language matters: Labeling Theory and client identity Building resilience and belonging through supervision Embedding hope and belief into justice work Connections to the TIDES Supervision Model pillars Connect with Joseph Arvidson: 🌐 The Criminologist Website 📺 Subscribe on YouTube 📧
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