Jelani Vanholten didn’t grow up wanting to work inside one of America’s most dangerous jails—but life led him behind the walls of Rikers Island. After attending college and trying several career paths, he put on the correctional officer uniform and was assigned to one of Rikers’ most feared units: The House of Pain.Inside those walls, respect wasn’t given—it was earned. Jelani became known as a CO who treated inmates with firmness and fairness, earning credibility from both staff and prisoners. But the longer he stayed inside Rikers, the darker the job became. From daily violence and psychological battles to navigating gang politics and surviving high-tension housing units, Jelani saw the brutal reality of New York City’s jail system up close. But everything changed when he felt his life was in danger—and the department didn’t have his back.

Keith Shibley was the kind of cop who ran toward danger—until the danger followed him home. Starting his career with the Virginia Port Authority Police, Keith transitioned into the Richmond Police Department, where violence, shootings, and high-stakes calls were a daily reality. Seeking a new path, he returned to the Port Authority and eventually became part of an FBI task force, responding to domestic terrorism threats, high-profile shootings, and federal-level criminal activity. But while he was protecting the public, the trauma was destroying him privately. Years of front-line exposure led to crippling PTSD, driving Keith into a spiral of painkillers, alcohol, and self-destruction—all while still wearing the badge. His life and career were on the brink. Instead of losing everything, Keith made a life-altering decision: he asked for help.

Charles Grady grew up in Connecticut and embarked on what many only dream of—a career in law enforcement. With over two decades on the front lines tackling violent gangs, drug traffickers, and homicides across the state, Grady made his mark as a relentless detective and federal task-force agent. After more than 20 years, he transitioned into groundbreaking work in community reintegration and gang violence prevention, founding programs like Hang Time to help formerly incarcerated individuals rebuild their lives.

Elliot Resnick grew up in a stable, loving home and lived what many would consider a “normal life.” He worked in journalism, had a deep interest in politics, and reported on major national stories. But everything changed on January 6th, 2021. After attending the Capitol event that day, Elliot followed the crowd inside — a decision that would come back to haunt him nearly two years later. In a shocking turn, federal agents arrested him, and he was charged for his involvement in storming the U.S. Capitol. He was later sentenced to federal prison, facing the reality of losing everything — his freedom, career, and reputation. But his story didn’t end there. While serving time, Elliot became one of the few involved in the January 6th cases to receive a presidential pardon — granted by former President Donald Trump — leading to his early release.

Drew Snarey has lived a career most people only see in movies — from busting gangs in Michigan to protecting high-profile federal figures. He began as a Michigan police officer before transitioning into detective work focused on gang activity and organized crime. His investigative skills led him to serve on multiple federal task forces, where he helped dismantle violent criminal networks and worked closely with top federal agencies. Eventually, Drew made the leap from state law enforcement to the federal level, joining the United States Secret Service and later working alongside other elite federal agencies. In this episode, Drew opens up about life on the streets as a young cop, taking down dangerous crews, navigating the politics of law enforcement, joining federal operations, and the reality of working inside one of America’s most elite agencies. He also reflects on the emotional toll these careers take and shares advice for anyone considering a path in law enforcement.