Summary of "Suave" Podcast – Season 2, Episode 3: "The Old Head"

Introduction

In the third episode of the second season of the Pulitzer Prize-winning podcast "Suave", titled "The Old Head", host Maria Hinojosa delves deeper into the life of Luis "Suave" Gonzalez, a former juvenile lifer who has spent over three decades incarcerated. This episode captures the pivotal moments leading up to Suave's release, his emotional and psychological preparations for reentry into society, and the profound bonds he formed during his time in prison.

Preparing for Release

As Suave approaches his release date, he grapples with the reality of leaving prison—a place that has been his home for most of his adult life. The transition is not just physical but also deeply emotional, as Suave reflects on the relationships and sense of belonging he developed behind bars.

Suave Gonzalez [05:06]:
"When you grow up in prison, like most of us have done, you have guys that have stepped in to become father figures and brothers. It's like breaking away from your family."

Despite being labeled a "short timer" in the transitional housing unit, Suave expresses unwavering loyalty to his fellow inmates, viewing them as his true family.

Suave Gonzalez [04:11]:
"You know, it's strange because now you got guys calling you short timer... I'm like, man, no, I'm not, man. This has been my home for my adult life. I got my people, man. I can't forget y'all guys."

Transitioning to Freedom

Suave's move to a transitional housing unit marks the beginning of his journey back into the outside world. This unit, though still on prison grounds, offers a glimpse of normalcy with amenities unfamiliar to him, such as private showers and access to a farm where inmates can work.

Suave Gonzalez [10:37]:
"Anytime you want."

These small freedoms contrast sharply with the rigid structure of his prison life, symbolizing both hope and the daunting challenges ahead.

Emotional Reflections and Fears

As the release date looms closer, Suave shares his apprehensions about reentering society. He contemplates the nuances of everyday interactions—simple acts like greeting someone or using utensils—and worries about being perceived as out of touch or "crazy."

Suave Gonzalez [16:10]:
"I might not even think about it. Going to shower in the street with my clothes on. People probably be like, yo, this dude is crazy."

Maria Hinojosa reflects on her role, acknowledging the blurred lines between professional storytelling and personal investment.

Maria Hinojosa [21:18]:
"The story was not, in my view, what had happened in the past. The story for me was what was going to happen in the future."

The Day of Release

November 20, 2017, marks a monumental day as Suave is finally released. The episode poignantly captures his departure from Pennsylvania State Correctional Institution, Greaterford, highlighting the emotions of Suave, his family, friends, and the team supporting him.

In a heartfelt moment, Suave reads his bucket list, a compilation of goals he set before his incarceration—a testament to his desire for personal growth and restitution.

Suave Gonzalez [28:37]:
"Even though I've been sentenced to die in prison by death by incarceration, I'm writing this wish list because if I ever get the chance to go home, I would love to do certain things to repair some of the wrong I've done."

This revelation underscores Suave's commitment to transforming his life and making amends for his past actions.

Final Moments and Reflections

The actual release unfolds with a mix of excitement and logistical hurdles. Suave's eagerness to embrace freedom is palpable, yet moments of procedural setbacks, like returning his prison uniform, remind listeners of the lingering constraints of his past life.

Maria Hinojosa [25:24]:
"So he opens up this big bag... and he rushes into the bathroom to change."

As Suave steps out into the world, the collective emotions of the supporting cast—Maria, Maggie, and his loved ones—highlight the gravity and significance of his liberation.

Conclusion

"The Old Head" offers a profound exploration of the complexities surrounding the release of a life-long inmate. Through intimate conversations, emotional revelations, and Suave's introspective moments, the episode paints a vivid picture of the challenges and hopes that accompany the quest for redemption and reintegration. Maria Hinojosa's empathetic storytelling not only chronicles Suave's journey but also invites listeners to contemplate the broader implications of incarceration and the pursuit of a second chance.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Suave Gonzalez [05:06]:
  "When you grow up in prison... it's like breaking away from your family."

• Suave Gonzalez [16:10]:
  "I might not even think about it. Going to shower in the street with my clothes on. People probably be like, yo, this dude is crazy."

• Suave Gonzalez [28:37]:
  "Even though I've been sentenced to die in prison by death by incarceration, I'm writing this wish list because if I ever get the chance to go home, I would love to do certain things to repair some of the wrong I've done."

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the emotional depth and transformative journey of "Suave" in "The Old Head", offering readers a window into the intricate process of reclaiming one's life after decades of incarceration.