The Personal Diary of Old Wooden Ears

In this episode of Bloody Angola Podcast, we explore the dark history of executioners throughout civilizations, from their origins to their roles under tribal leaders and monarchs. Woody and Jim delve into the lives of infamous executioners like Derek and John Crosland, revealing chilling details of their deeds. Various methods of execution over the centuries are discussed, including the guillotine's introduction by Dr. Joseph Guillotine, transforming the landscape and speed of executions.01:30 Introduction03:45 Origins of Executioners12:48 Unique Identification Methods19:27 Love in the DungeonAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

11 Apr 202430min

In this episode, we explore the life of Lead Belly, a prominent blues singer originating from the infamous Bloody Angola prison. Spanning the 1930s, we witness Lead Belly's turbulent journey from incarceration to musical stardom, showcasing his exceptional 12-string guitar skills and prestigious performances at locales like Carnegie Hall and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. We delve into the harsh realities of life in Bloody Angola during the Great Depression, shedding light on inmate challenges and the vital role of correctional officers in maintaining order. Additionally, we touch upon the evolving landscape of law enforcement, the complexities detectives encounter, and the significance of adequate funding for police departments. Timestamps0:53 Lead Belly's Story Begins14:23 Lead Belly's Violent Altercations15:53 Lead Belly's Murder Conviction20:58 Lead Belly's Recording Opportunity21:57Lead Belly's Release and Musical Success26:14 Lead Belly's Hit Song30:24 Reflections on Lead Belly's Legacy36:51 Challenges Faced by Correctional Officers42:45 Law Enforcement Challenges44:00 Investigative PrioritizationAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

4 Apr 202449min

Woody and Jim into the history of the electric chair, discussing various executions that took place in the past. William Kemmler's execution in New York in 1890 marked the first time the electric chair was used, aiming to replace the gruesome public hangings of the time. The podcast highlights the mishaps that occurred during electrocutions, such as William Taylor's legs ripping off during the process. It also explores how Louisiana transitioned from hangings to using the electric chair in 1940 and eventually to lethal injection in 1991.Additionally, we want to acknowledge the support of Lori Johnson, a Louisiana community figure participating in a fundraising event for the Big Buddy Program. If you would like contribute to the cause and show support for Lori, we provide her specific link below.https://dancingforbigbuddy.com/dancer/lori-johnson/?fbclid=IwAR0aHVAqaX_u_kCMjAn4mw_7E1eY5MXNUifV8mpKfHEdkT2VCmbJaEtHgigTimestamps0:03:57 The History of the Electric Chair0:06:49 Public Executions and the Shift to Electric Chair0:14:19 Transition to Electric Chair in Louisiana0:15:31 Introduction of Portable Electric Chair in Louisiana0:19:44 Increase in Louisiana Executions via Electric Chair0:28:05 History of Executioners in the US and Bloody Angola0:29:30 Exploring Alternate Forms of Execution0:33:11 Reflections on the Justice System and Executions0:35:22 Shout-Out to Lori Johnson's Fundraiser0:37:24 Wrapping Up and Rodeo PlansAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

21 Mars 202441min

In this Part 2 we wraps up this series "The Richest Man in Bloody Angola" .In this episode, we dive into the story of Wilbert Rideau, a man who spent 44 years in prison for a crime he committed in 1961. We explore his journey from a young man involved in a tragic incident to his time in prison, including solitary confinement and his reflections on regret and survival. We discuss his various trials, legal battles, and ultimately his release after being found guilty of manslaughter in his fourth trial. Wilbert's transformation during his time in prison, his accomplishments as a journalist, filmmaker, and author post-release, and the challenges he faced reintegrating into society are all highlighted. We also touch on the perspectives of the victims' families and the complexities of forgiveness and redemption. The episode explores the question of rehabilitation and whether Wilbert Rideau, now a successful author and consultant, has truly changed from the person he was in 1961. Ultimately, we reflect on Wilbert Rideau's journey and the contrasting feelings of justice, forgiveness, and the ongoing impact of his release.Timestamps:0:01:51 Facing Regrets and Solitary Confinement0:03:37 Hope in Solitude0:06:30 The Hope of Clemency0:09:39 Linda LaBranche's Support0:13:55 Legal Dream Team with Johnny Cochran0:16:47 Judicial Rollercoaster0:21:33 Opening Statements of Fourth Trial0:26:01 Conclusion of Fourth Trial0:28:44 Rideau's Release and Community Divide0:37:00 Concerns and Plans Post-Prison0:39:14 Wilbert Rideau's Biographical Success0:41:58 The Richest Man in Bloody AngolaAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

14 Mars 202444min

In this episode of Bloody Angola, Jim Chapman delves into the story of Wilbert Rideau, a prisoner with a remarkable journey. Rideau achieved significant accomplishments behind bars, winning prestigious journalism awards and making substantial reforms within the Angola prison. Chapman vividly describes Rideau's background, including his upbringing in Louisiana and his involvement in a fateful armed bank robbery in 1961. The detailed account of the robbery and its consequences on Rideau's life are presented, highlighting the tragic events that unfolded that night.Chapman delves into Rideau's multiple trials, each resulting in a first-degree murder conviction and a death sentence. Despite Rideau's claims of panic and lack of premeditation, the courts repeatedly found him guilty. The emotional impact on the victims, especially Dora McCain, a surviving bank teller, is powerfully portrayed through their statements during Rideau's clemency hearings. The tension between Rideau's rehabilitation and the severity of his crime is a central theme throughout the episode.The episode captures the complex emotions and moral dilemmas surrounding Rideau's case, including insights from journalists, D.A., and Rideau's mother. Despite his outstanding achievements in journalism and documentary filmmaking while in prison, Rideau faces the ongoing challenge of seeking clemency and ultimate release. The episode ends with a hint of a forthcoming episode, promising a continuation of Rideau's story and the surprising turns it takes. Throughout the episode, Chapman's narrative style immerses the listeners in the compelling and controversial story of Wilbert Rideau and the Angola prison.Timestamps:0:03:20 Rideau's Accomplishments and Reforms0:04:53 Recognition and Fame0:05:13 Wilbert Rideau's Upbringing0:06:50 The Bank Robbery0:11:54 The Bank Robbery - Confrontation0:14:30 The Bank Robbery - Panic Sets In0:20:32 Publicity Surrounding Rideau's Case0:23:16 Legal Battles and Appeals0:26:47 Interview Reflection on the Crime0:33:54 Rideau's Notable Achievements0:38:19 Rideau as Editor of Angola0:41:04 Rideau's Clemency Hearing0:45:29 Public Response to Rideau's Clemency0:47:11 Clemency Decision0:50:41 Rideau's Success in PrisonAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

7 Mars 202457min

In this episode of Bloody Angola podcast, we delve into the chilling world of serial killers and the intricate process of catching them. Drawing from the case of Derek Todd Lee, a notorious serial killer in the Baton Rouge area of Louisiana, we discuss how the FBI profiling of serial killers has evolved over the years. We highlight the challenges law enforcement faced in accurately profiling Derek Todd Lee, who defied the initial FBI profile by being a person of color. The episode delves into the power of DNA evidence in catching serial killers, using examples like Brian Koberger's case, where familial DNA played a crucial role in identification.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

29 Feb 202434min

In this episode of Bloody Angola, the podcast we delve into the life story of Wayne Felde, a troubled individual who was born in 1949 and grew up in a family with a history of military service. Wayne's father was abusive and struggled with alcoholism, which deeply impacted Wayne's upbringing. Wayne enlisted in the Army during the Vietnam War, hoping to become a war hero, but the harsh reality of the war quickly changed his perspective on conflict. He endured traumatic experiences in Vietnam, including exposure to Agent Orange, which had long-lasting detrimental effects on his health.After returning from Vietnam, Wayne struggled with PTSD and alcoholism, leading to a series of tumultuous events in his life. Tragically, Wayne ended up in a confrontation where he unintentionally killed a friend due to a PTSD-induced episode. Subsequently, Wayne was involved in a fatal incident with a police officer, resulting in his arrest and imprisonment. Despite attempts to take his own life and a tumultuous legal battle, Wayne was sentenced to death and ultimately executed in the electric chair at Louisiana State Penitentiary on March 15, 1988, just days before his 39th birthday.The podcast reflects on Wayne's complex life, the impact of war trauma on his actions, and the justice system's final verdict on his fate. The story highlights the complexities of PTSD, accountability for one's actions, and the tragic end that Wayne faced. Through detailed storytelling and historical context, Bloody Angola provides a deep dive into the life of Wayne Felde and his ultimate demise in the electric chair at the notorious prison.Timestamps:0:02:16 ]: Wayne Felde's Childhood0:05:58 ]: Wayne's Enlistment in Vietnam0:10:03 ]: Impact of Agent Orange0:14:02 ]: Wayne's Return to the U.S.0:15:24 ]: Wayne's Struggles after Vietnam0:22:31 ]: Wayne's Murder Trial0:30:09 ]: Wayne's Escape 0:34:56 ]: Wayne's Time on Death Row0:36:37 ]: Wayne's ExecutionFACTOR!Healthy and Fresh never frozen meals, prepared by chefs and ready to eat in just 2 minutes! Factor saves us time to get back to podcasting and Bloody Angola Podcast listeners get 50% off now by going to https://www.factormeals.com/bloodyangola50 and using the code bloodyangola50 for 50% off!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

22 Feb 202440min

In this episode, we explore the history and future of the Louisiana's Correctional Institute for Women (LCIW). We discuss the challenges faced by women at LCIW, including limited access to education and overcrowding. We also highlight the appointment of Kristen Thomas as the second-ever female warden and the construction of a new facility with improved amenities. #BloodyAngolaPodcast #LadyConvicts #LCIW #PodcastTimestamps0:02:20 Women's fate after leaving Angola: LCIW and its history0:04:04 Construction of St. Gabriel, a female-only prison near Baton Rouge0:04:31 Early years of LCIW: Housing, Orientation, and Behavioral Assessments0:06:37 Work release program and healthcare at LCIW0:14:58 Female warden appointed to increase diversity in leadership0:19:18 Groundbreaking for new LCIW facility in September 20220:27:14 Success Stories: Horticulture, Upholstery, and Welding Classes0:29:13 Re-entry Programs and Support for Incarcerated Women0:36:43 Inside Knowledge of Prison Life and Security MeasuresFACTOR!Healthy and Fresh never frozen meals, prepared by chefs and ready to eat in just 2 minutes! Factor saves us time to get back to podcasting and Bloody Angola Podcast listeners get 50% off now by going to https://www.factormeals.com/bloodyangola50 and using the code bloodyangola50 for 50% off!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

15 Feb 202442min