Digital Social Hour: Unbelievable Prison Survival Tactics You Never Knew | Garet McLendon DSH #748
Host: Sean Kelly
Guest: Garet McLendon
Release Date: September 23, 2024
Introduction
In this gripping episode of Digital Social Hour, host Sean Kelly sits down with Garet McLendon, a man whose tumultuous journey through addiction, incarceration, and redemption offers profound insights into survival behind bars and the path to personal transformation. Garet's candid storytelling delves deep into the challenges he faced, the tactics he employed to survive prison life, and the eventual steps he took toward recovery and rebuilding his relationships.
Early Life and Reckless Driving
Garet McLendon's troubled relationship with law enforcement began early in life. From the age of 15, he was heavily involved in reckless driving, accumulating a staggering 168 traffic tickets over the years.
"I have a printout of all those tickets... it was just a sheet of paper just unfolding... it's hilarious."
[01:01] Garet McLendon
His disregard for traffic laws wasn't limited to speeding. Garet frequently ignored basic driving regulations, leading to constant encounters with the police.
"After a time, I think that they just saw me coming in that car and they just pulled me over because they knew I didn't have a driver's license."
[01:49] Garet McLendon
These repeated offenses eventually led to significant consequences, including multiple stints in jail. Garet didn't secure a driver's license until he was 34, highlighting the extent of his legal troubles.
Escalation to Serious Crimes
Garet's criminal activities escalated beyond traffic violations. He became involved in motorcycle and car theft, as well as drug-related offenses. His motivations were largely driven by a desire for material possessions, particularly fast cars, mirroring influences from popular culture like The Fast and the Furious.
"I wanted a fast car, and I couldn't afford it, so I wanted a stolen car that had all the stuff that I needed... on Saturday."
[03:29] Garet McLendon
Garet detailed his methods of bypassing security features like kill switches, showcasing a level of ingenuity and risk-taking behavior that further deepened his legal woes.
"I would not break a window... I make keys and I have a kick... I do your homework on the car and look it up."
[05:02] Garet McLendon
Prison Life and Survival Tactics
Garet spent 13 to 15 years incarcerated, navigating both county jails and state prisons. He described the prison environment as a constant battle for respect and survival, emphasizing the importance of solidarity with fellow inmates.
"We're watching over each other... someone who's watching my back, and I'm watching his."
[21:37] Garet McLendon
His insights into prison dynamics reveal a harsh reality where alliances are crucial. Garet spoke about the intense and often violent nature of race wars within county jails, highlighting the scarcity of control and the perpetual threat of violence.
"The riots... were way more scarier... It was like gladiators... just going at it."
[25:53] Garet McLendon
Additionally, Garet discussed the resourcefulness inmates employ to create weapons, a testament to the relentless need for self-defense in such environments.
"You learned that you can make a weapon out of everything... they turned a mop bucket handle into a shank."
[27:05] Garet McLendon
Facing Tragedy and Addiction
A pivotal moment in Garet's life occurred when he witnessed a friend die in a street racing accident, profoundly impacting his views on alcohol and substance abuse.
"Alcohol really turned me against all that... he died right there on impact."
[10:27] Garet McLendon
Despite brief periods of sobriety during incarceration, Garet struggled immensely upon release, quickly falling back into his old habits due to the overwhelming pull of his environment and addiction.
"When I get out, I immediately would take a drink... that drink would lead me into a drug."
[17:12] Garet McLendon
This cycle of addiction led to repeated incarcerations, making it nearly impossible for Garet to break free from his destructive patterns.
Recovery and Rebuilding Relationships
After years of battling addiction and incarceration, Garet reached a turning point on March 17, 2013, marking his sobriety date. This moment signified the beginning of his journey toward recovery and healing.
"March 17, 2013, is the day that is my sobriety date."
[29:05] Garet McLendon
Reestablishing relationships was a cornerstone of Garet's rehabilitation. He worked diligently to reconnect with his estranged father and rebuild his relationship with his daughter, who initially didn't recognize him due to his absence and past behaviors.
"I want to be your son. It's never too late for a son and a dad to start a relationship."
[33:01] Garet McLendon
Garet also emphasized the significance of surrounding himself with supportive individuals, seeking help from recovery programs, and focusing on positive activities like surfing with his daughter to maintain his sobriety.
"Sitting out there in the ocean with my daughter is one of the greatest things I could ever ask for."
[37:37] Garet McLendon
Legacy and Continuing Support
Today, Garet McLendon dedicates his time to helping others overcome similar struggles. He actively engages with communities on social media, offering support and guidance to those battling addiction and striving for a better life.
"For the people who are out there who are struggling or need help, reach out to me."
[46:22] Garet McLendon
Garet's story is a powerful testament to resilience and the human capacity for change. His journey from a life marred by addiction and crime to one focused on recovery and family underscores the importance of support, determination, and self-awareness in overcoming life's greatest challenges.
Notable Quotes
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"Don't do it. Don't let those tickets pile up."
[02:40] Garet McLendon -
"It's either you're on this side. I'm either down or up."
[45:15] Garet McLendon -
"Words are a lot. Words mean a lot."
[40:17] Garet McLendon -
"The only thing that could help me was me just being like, you know what."
[43:00] Garet McLendon
Conclusion
Garet McLendon's narrative offers invaluable lessons on the perils of addiction, the complexities of prison life, and the transformative power of recovery. His commitment to rebuilding his life and supporting others serves as an inspiring example for anyone facing similar adversities. Through his honesty and vulnerability, Garet illustrates that no matter how dire one's circumstances may seem, there is always hope for change and a path toward redemption.
Connect with Garet McLendon:
Follow Garet on Instagram @mindsetRecovery to stay updated on his journey and support his mission to help others overcome addiction and rebuild their lives.
Thank you for tuning into this episode of Digital Social Hour. If Garet's story resonated with you, consider subscribing and sharing to spread awareness and inspire change.