Best Michael Gough Podcasts (2025)

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Beyond the Exhibit: Building a People-First Company with Michael McMahon 56:42

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2d ago56:42

56:42

What happens when a bartender-turned-restaurant-owner discovers a passion for experiential marketing and becomes the CEO of one of the top exhibit houses in the country? You get Michael McMahon. In this episode, Michael opens up to host, Jane Gentry, about his winding path to leadership, how he cultivated his leadership voice over decades, and what…

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Episode 012: Dance Studios Reimagined: Marketing Breakthroughs with Michael Tasner 35:52

2d ago35:52

35:52

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, Steve welcomes Michael Tasner, founder of the Parent Marketing Group and longtime supporter of businesses that serve families and children. With two daughters in dance and two decades in marketing, Michael dives deep into what it takes for dance studio owners to grow, retain students, and stand out in today’s…

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The Murder of Jonathan Joss 24:10

3d ago24:10

24:10

Jonathan Joss (1965–2025) was a Native American actor and musician renowned for his roles as John Redcorn in King of the Hill and Chief Ken Hotate in Parks and Recreation. His tragic death on June 1, 2025, has brought attention to issues of hate crimes and the underrepresentation of Native American victims in media coverage. Native activists emphas…

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We’re Going to Mexico City — and You’re Invited! 🇲🇽🌮 5:43

6d ago5:43

5:43

Pack your bags and grab your passport — we’re taking the Once Upon a Crime community on the road! In this special episode, we’re officially announcing our upcoming group trip to Mexico City, and trust us, you’re going to want in on this. From March 27–30, 2025, we’ll be exploring one of the world’s most vibrant cities together — filled with amazing…

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Episode 011: Behind the Curtain: How to Simplify Recital Season with Brandy Vickers 26:04

6d ago26:04

26:04

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, we sit down with Brandy Vickers, longtime dance industry expert and Sales Manager at TutuTix, to talk all things recital prep. With over four decades of dance experience and a background in education, Brandy shares actionable tips on how studio owners can reduce stress, streamline ticketing, increase profits,…

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Episode 010: Studio to Spotlight: The Harlequin Floors Story with Steve Gough & Chrissy Ott Richter 21:09

9d ago21:09

21:09

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, we're joined by Steve Gough, General Manager at Harlequin Floors, and Chrissy Ott Richter, Director of Marketing and Communications. Together, they share Harlequin’s journey from a small California startup to an internationally trusted name in dance flooring. We explore: Harlequin’s mission to promote dancer …

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OUAC Live in London - Killer Knowledge 41:03

10d ago41:03

41:03

On this week’s episode we’re going international! You’ll travel to London with Esther for a behind-the-scenes listen to the Once Upon a Crime live show recorded at CrimeCon UK on June 8th. Esther emceed a game show called “Killer Knowledge” where she challenged fellow true crime podcasters Neil and Megan from Mortal Musings on their true crime triv…

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Episode 009: How Misty Lown & Mandy Yip Are Shaping the Future of Dance Education 39:59

13d ago39:59

39:59

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, we’re joined by two industry legends: Misty Lown, founder of More Than Just Great Dancing, and Mandy Yip, founder of Acrobatic Arts. Together, they share the highs and hurdles of building internationally recognized dance education brands, their inspiring journeys through entrepreneurship, and how they’re now …

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Protect the King: Navigating Family, Business & Hard Decisions with Mark McKenzie 47:30

16d ago47:30

47:30

How do you run a thriving business with your siblings—without losing your sanity or your bottom line? In this episode of CEOs Unscripted, Mark McKenzie, CEO of DocQmax, shares the gritty, inspiring story behind his family’s 50-year journey in the printing industry. From navigating family dynamics and hard conversations to staying innovative through…

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Episode 008: From Studio Floors to Social Scores: Marissa Powers’ Rise in Dance & Digital 25:33

16d ago25:33

25:33

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, host Steve sits down with powerhouse dance educator and social media sensation Marissa Powers. From her early days at a small studio in Massachusetts to choreographing for NYU and teaching across NYC, Marissa shares how she built a dance brand that now inspires over 100K followers across TikTok and Instagram.…

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Murder in My Hometown: Six Weeks of Terror - The San Jose Murders 35:27

17d ago35:27

35:27

In the fall of 1984, fear took hold of San Jose, California. In just six weeks, six young women vanished or were found murdered — their lives cut short under brutal and mysterious circumstances. As residents watched the headlines mount, few could imagine the horror hiding in plain sight. Six Weeks of Terror is a gripping true crime story that unrav…

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Episode 007: How Power Duo Renee and Jason Are Revolutionizing the Dance Trade Show Scene 28:23

20d ago28:23

28:23

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, we sit down with industry veterans Renee Stojec of A Wish Come True and Jason Neuwirth. of 42nd Street Tours to discuss the launch of their exciting new venture: Dance NYC. Learn how their years of experience and collaboration led to the creation of this one-of-a-kind event, featuring exclusive liquidation de…

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Episode 006: Dance Competition Edge: Expert Advice from Courtney Ortiz 38:34

22d ago38:34

38:34

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, Steve welcomes the dynamic Courtney Ortiz — professional dancer, seasoned competition judge, educator, and host of Making the Impact – A Dance Competition Podcast. Courtney shares her incredible journey from Broadway to adjudication, dives into current trends in the competitive dance world, and offers actiona…

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Episode 005: From Basement to Thriving Studio: Jamie Adams' Growth Journey 23:55

27d ago23:55

23:55

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, we sit down with Jamie Adams, founder of Gotta Dance in Eagle Mountain, Utah. Jamie shares her incredible 18-year journey—starting a dance studio in her basement and growing it into a thriving, state-of-the-art facility that now serves as a cultural hub for her entire community. Whether you're just starting y…

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The Servant CEO: Bold Leadership Lessons with Mike Plaia 53:51

1M ago53:51

53:51

In this episode of CEOs Unscripted, host Jane Gentry sits down with Mike Plaia, CEO of PharmaPoint, for an unscripted masterclass on building culture, embracing servant leadership, and staying bold in the face of adversity. (05:34) The GE program that fast-tracked Mike’s business instincts (07:25) Why Mike tells young professionals to start with st…

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Episode 004: Studio Success Starts with Branding: Insights from Weissman Experts 30:13

1M ago30:13

30:13

In this episode of Step Up Your Studio, we sit down with Claudia Reed (SVP of Sales) and Lorianne Hagen (Senior Sales Manager) from Weissman—one of the most trusted names in dance wear and costuming for over 65 years. Together with hosts Steve and Angie, we explore what it truly means to build a studio brand that resonates—from your logo and commun…

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Episode 003: Audition Like a Pro: Tips from Broadway’s Ashley Andrews 32:05

1M ago32:05

32:05

In this powerful episode of Step Up Your Studio, we’re joined by the incredible Ashley Andrews - Broadway choreographer, performer, and creative leader behind major productions like King Kong, Diana, Jesus Christ Superstar, and Sunset Boulevard. Ashley brings decades of industry experience and unfiltered advice for aspiring performers, studio owner…

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BTK Blunders - The Bumbling Serial Killer Dennis Rader 49:36

1M ago49:36

49:36

Dennis Rader, the self-proclaimed "BTK" killer—short for "Bind, Torture, Kill"—terrified Wichita and Park City, Kansas, for nearly two decades. But behind the mask of a monstrous mastermind was a man whose crimes were riddled with laughable mistakes, sloppy execution, and a bizarre craving for attention. In this episode, we dismantle the myth of BT…

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Episode 002: From Studio Owner to Mentor: Julie Kay’s Secrets to Building a Thriving Dance Studio Team 26:26

1M ago26:26

26:26

In this inspiring episode of Step Up Your Studio, we welcome the incredible Julie Kay Stallcup, a beloved veteran of the dance education world and longtime friend of Dance Teacher Web. Julie shares her journey from building one of the most successful studios in California - Revolution Dance Center with over 1,300 students and 30+ employees - to tra…

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Leading with Transparency: Lessons in Open-Book Culture with John Costello 57:35

1M ago57:35

57:35

What happens when a 16-year-old managing adults becomes a CEO of a niche manufacturing company? In this candid and inspiring episode of CEOs Unscripted, host Jane Gentry sits down with John Costello, CEO of Cherry’s Industrial Equipment, for a real conversation about leadership, legacy, and the power of transparency. From navigating a tense busines…

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Child of Darkness: Mary Bell 38:22

1M ago38:22

38:22

In 1968, the quiet streets of Scotswood, England, were shattered by a chilling discovery: two young boys, just three and four years old, had been murdered—and the killer was an eleven-year-old girl. Mary Flora Bell's name would soon become synonymous with one of Britain’s most disturbing criminal cases. In this episode, we explore the harrowing det…

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Episode 001: Welcome to Step Up Your Studio 3:53

2M ago3:53

3:53

Step Up Your Studio is the go-to podcast for dance studio owners and teachers ready to grow, thrive, and lead with impact. Hosts Steve Sirico and Angela D’Valda Sirico share actionable tips, expert interviews, and real-world strategies on marketing, leadership, teaching, and more — all to help elevate your studio to new heights.…

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Buried Alive - The Chowchilla School Bus Kidnapping 40:23

2M ago40:23

40:23

In the summer of 1976, a small town in California was shaken to its core when 26 schoolchildren and their bus driver were abducted in broad daylight. The hijackers drove them to a remote rock quarry, where they were forced into a buried moving van—essentially a mass grave beneath six feet of earth. But an extraordinary act of bravery and resilience…

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29. Why Social Listening Matters 24:15

2M ago24:15

24:15

The backbone of good marketing is the quality of the research. The best insight comes from hearing real audiences talk about their real experiences.Traditional research can cost thousands and still miss the people who don’t get a seat at the table. Quantitative data tells you what’s common. Social listening reveals what’s missing. In this episode, …

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Mission First, People Always: Leadership Wisdom from Marine and CEO, Patrick Gough 1:09:47

2M ago1:09:47

1:09:47

In this dynamic episode of CEOs Unscripted, host Jane Gentry sits down with Patrick "Paddy" Gough — retired Marine Corps officer, former aerospace CEO, and founder of Poseidon Consulting — for a candid and insightful conversation on what true leadership looks like. Together, they explore Paddy’s "Seven Cs" of leadership: competence, candor, courage…

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The Case Against Diddy: An Update with Legal Expert Brian Buckmire 46:55

2M ago46:55

46:55

At the end of 2024, Once Upon a Crime released a two-part deep dive into The Life and Crimes of Sean Diddy Combs, unraveling the shocking allegations and federal charges facing the music mogul. Since then, the story has only grown more intense. With over 50 civil lawsuits filed and a federal trial set to begin on May 5th, the once-celebrated produc…

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The CEO’s Mirror: How Self-Awareness Transformed Josh McAfee’s Leadership 39:14

2M ago39:14

39:14

When your company can’t grow past you, it’s time to grow yourself. From starting a business by accident to scaling multiple companies—and learning some hard lessons along the way—Josh McAfee brings an honest and insightful lens to what it really takes to lead and grow. In this episode, Josh joins Jane Gentry to talk about the mindset shift that tra…

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The True Tale of Lizzie Borden: Part 3 - Lizzie’s Enduring Legacy 43:37

2M ago43:37

43:37

In the gripping conclusion of The True Tale of Lizzie Borden, we turn to the defense’s side of the story. What arguments did Lizzie’s lawyers make to counter the damning evidence? What did the jury ultimately decide—and why? Join me as we uncover the final chapter of this notorious case, from the courtroom verdict to the lasting legacy Lizzie Borde…

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The True Tale of Lizzie Borden - Part 2: The Trial of the Century 42:30

3M ago42:30

42:30

In Part 2 of The True Tale of Lizzie Borden, we step into the courtroom for one of America’s earliest media frenzies—the infamous trial of Lizzie Borden. After the shocking 1892 axe murders of Andrew and Abby Borden, suspicion turned toward Andrew’s 32-year-old daughter, Lizzie. The brutal nature of the crime and the unexpected suspect captivated t…

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Leading with Intention: A Blueprint for Change-Ready Organizations with Bill Canady 49:55

3M ago49:55

49:55

Executing with focus, leading through change, and building unstoppable teams with intention and clarity. What happens when a Navy vet, former sales rep, and self-described “imposter syndrome CEO” becomes one of the most effective growth leaders in private equity? You get Bill Canady—Chairman of OTC Industrial Technologies, CEO of Arrowhead Engineer…

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28. Why No Engagement Matters 40:39

3M ago40:39

40:39

Every minute, over 500 hours of video are uploaded to YouTube, 350,000 tweets are sent, and 5 million posts go live on Facebook. Try to keep up and you’ll be scrolling forever. In this episode, I’m joined by Dan Preston from Neighbourhood to explore why likes, shares and comments — what we used to call engagement — don’t matter anymore. We unpack s…

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Presenting: CRIME HOUSE TRUE CRIME STORIES 15:41

3M ago15:41

15:41

Crime House True Crime Stories is the ultimate destination for true crime fans. Every episode features two notorious cases from that week in crime history, tied by a common theme like infamous serial killers, mysterious disappearances, tragic murders, and more. Every Monday, uncover the full stories behind the headlines as host Vanessa Richardson t…

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Women Who Shaped True Crime: The True Tale of Lizzie Borden - Part 1 46:35

3M ago46:35

46:35

On August 4, 1892, the quiet town of Fall River, Massachusetts, was rocked by a gruesome double murder. Andrew Borden and his wife, Abby, were found brutally hacked to death in their own home. But the most shocking twist? The prime suspect was none other than Andrew’s own daughter, 32-year-old Lizzie Borden. The crime and trial became one of the mo…

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From Crisis to Comeback: Leadership Lessons from the Fast-Food Industry with Doug Augustine 50:28

3M ago50:28

50:28

#001: From Crisis to Comeback: Leadership Lessons from the Fast-Food Industry with Doug Augustine Turning setbacks into success, the power of vulnerability in leadership, and building a thriving company culture. Imagine stepping into a struggling business at just 26 years old, facing financial turmoil, and being told by corporate leaders that you s…

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True Crime Trailblazers: Exclusive Interview with Marcia Clark, Trial by Ambush 51:39

3M ago51:39

51:39

The name "Marcia Clark" has become synonymous with the infamous O.J. Simpson trial. As lead prosecutor in that high-profile case, Clark faced intense scrutiny, not only for her legal strategy but also for her appearance. Now, she's back with a compelling new book that dives into another sensationalized case: Trial by Ambush: Murder, Injustice, and …

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True Crime Trailblazers - 3 Kickass Women Who Shaped True Crime 31:26

4M ago31:26

31:26

Women’s History Month: Honoring True Crime Trailblazers March is Women’s History Month, and we’re spotlighting the female trailblazers who revolutionized true crime. These women—authors, investigators, prosecutors, researchers, and victims’ advocates—played pivotal roles in shaping the genre, uncovering the criminal mind, aiding victims, and helpin…

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So, I Married a Serial Killer - Mrs. Menendez 32:08

4M ago32:08

32:08

In this final episode of our series, So, I Married a Serial Killer..., we unravel the complex and unconventional love stories of Lyle and Erik Menendez—two brothers sentenced to life in prison for the brutal murder of their parents. Despite being condemned to spend the rest of their lives behind bars with no chance of parole, both Lyle and Erik fou…

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So, I Married a Serial Killer...- Mrs. Ted Bundy 42:31

4M ago42:31

42:31

Ted Bundy was one of the most notorious serial killers in American history—charming, calculating, and deadly. While he was suspected of abducting, raping, and murdering more than thirty women across six states, he also maintained romantic relationships. One woman unknowingly loved a monster, while another chose to stand by his side even as the worl…

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So…I Married a Serial Killer - Mrs. Richard Ramirez 28:39

5M ago28:39

28:39

Throughout history, some of the world’s most notorious serial killers have drawn romantic attention, even after their heinous crimes were exposed. From Ted Bundy to Richard Ramirez, these men—locked away for unspeakable acts—still managed to captivate and attract devoted partners. But what compels someone to pledge their love and loyalty to a known…

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27. Why Language, Consciousness, Magick, and Romance matter 48:50

5M ago48:50

48:50

In this episode, I’m joined by writer Thomas Sharp. His creative life is a blend of commercial commissions and self-initiated projects, each shaped by his deep fascination with language. You might have seen his words without realising it. Love is Running Towards — his piece for the London Fire Brigade. Or the vast banners welcoming visitors to the …

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Murder City: Santa Cruz, California, 1970 to 1973 - Part 3 50:44

5M ago50:44

50:44

In the early 1970s, the tranquil community of Santa Cruz, California, was shattered by a series of murders committed by two serial killers operating at the same time. Edmund Kemper, known as the "Co-ed Killer," murdered eight individuals, including six young women, his mother, and her friend, between May 1972 and April 1973. Simultaneously, Herbert…

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Murder City: Santa Cruz, California, 1970 to 1973, Part 2 45:01

5M ago45:01

45:01

This month, I’m bringing you the story of three terrifying years that unfolded in Santa Cruz, California. Between 1970 and 1973, a series of murders rocked Santa Cruz, a once-peaceful beach community. Before it was all over, residents would live through unimaginable horrors - a prominent family wiped out in a mass murder by a deranged killer and tw…

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Murder City: Santa Cruz, California, 1970 to 1973 - Part 1 52:57

5M ago52:57

52:57

In the 1970s, Santa Cruz, California, became known by a title no one else wanted - “Murder City.” Between 1970 and 1973, a series of murders rocked the once peaceful beach community. Before it was all over, residents would live through unimaginable horrors - a prominent family wiped out in a mass murder by a deranged killer and not one but two seri…

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26. Why Poetry Matters 48:19

6M ago48:19

48:19

Poetry has lessons for every brand. The power of brevity. The art of wordplay. Thoughtful connections that spark emotion, linger in memory, and sometimes bring a smile–or a tear. Who better to explore why poetry matters than John Simmons, writer, poet and pioneer of verbal branding.

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The KKK Christmas Day Bombing 29:15

6M ago29:15

29:15

Harry Tyson Moore and his wife, Harriette, lived a quiet life but raised their voices for the rights of African Americans beginning in the 1930s. They are two unsung heroes of the Civil Rights Movement who became targets of a deadly attack on Christmas Day, 1951. I’ll share with you this story of extraordinary courage, an unwavering fight for justi…

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The Life and Crimes of Diddy: Part 2 58:01

7M ago58:01

58:01

Welcome back to our two-part series on the life and crimes of Sean Diddy Combs. In this explosive second installment, I detail Diddy’s meteoric rise in the music industry, uncover the allegations regarding his volatile romantic relationships, and expose a shadowy past filled with violence and legal troubles dating back to the 1990s. I’ll also shed …

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25. Why SDRs Matter 40:57

7M ago40:57

40:57

According to the FT Advisor, enthusiasm for sustainable investing has dropped sharply this year, with interest in ESG funds reportedly down by 83%. Many investors are pulling back, citing underwhelming returns and ongoing issues with greenwashing. Meanwhile, the Financial Conduct Authority has introduced four new labels as part of its Sustainabilit…

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Listen Now - Hollywood & Crime: The Cotton Club Murder 4:44

7M ago4:44

4:44

On June 10th, 1983, the decomposing body of a well-dressed man was found in a desolate canyon near Los Angeles. John Doe #94 would soon be identified as missing variety show producer Roy Radin. He'd last been seen after meeting with a mysterious woman in a gold dress. Her name was Lanie Jacobs. Jacobs and Radin were obsessed with becoming Hollywood…

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The Life and Crimes of Diddy - Part 1 48:22

7M ago48:22

48:22

American musical producer and entrepreneur Sean “Diddy” Combs was arrested in September 2024 on charges of racketeering, sex trafficking by force, and transportation for purposes of prostitution. He is currently in federal custody awaiting trial in Brooklyn, New York. Almost daily, new accusers are coming forward to share additional information abo…

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Haunted Homicide - The Old Main Prison Riot 34:26

7M ago34:26

34:26

Over two days in 1980, prisoners at a New Mexico penitentiary, angry at the conditions they experienced inside its walls, rose up against their jailers and wreaked havoc upon officers and inmates alike. It would be called the bloodiest prison riot in U.S. history. Over thirty-six hours, thirty-three prisoners were killed, eight guards were brutally…