Radio Redemption: Prison Radio Gives Hope to Inmate Communities

by Nia Hodge

Two male inmate DJs sitting behind radio station equipment — The Tank is a popular faith-based radio show and tablet podcast platform, hosted by Ramy “Megamind” Hozaifeh, on the left, and Alan “Surfside” Rogers.

The success of The Tank, the first radio station launched inside a Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) facility in 2020, has sparked a wave of expansion. Now, The Tank paves the way for more stations to bring connection and programming to TDCJ facilities across Texas.

Chaplain R. E. Martin, who currently oversees the radio station at the Polunsky Unit said, “It began as a tool for administration during COVID-19 to communicate to the unit. It was helpful for the inmates to hear directly from the warden and administration in real time.”

Ramy Hozaifeh, also known as Mega Mind, is an inmate DJ of The Tank at the Polunsky Unit. His role not only entails being a host, but bringing motivation, joy, and peace to the inmate community.

“This is probably the most dynamic station ever,” Hozaifeh said. “It’s a powerful community-building tool. Once you feel like you belong to something, you’re invested in its success. We even receive letters from inmates in other units who find our programs inspiring.”

Chaplain R.E. Martin wearing a blue button-down long-sleeve shirt — Chaplain R.E. Martin

Through the radio station, culture and community has grown significantly across the TDCJ and has benefitted not only the inmates but those around them. The Tank has broken barriers with its unique perspective to reaching inmates, families and even staff.

“It’s helped reduce isolation; inmates feel like they’re a part of a larger community,” Martin said. “The Tank gives a sense of connection to others, and they think ‘I have a voice, I have a say, people can hear me.’ Which I think is valuable when you feel like you’re lost or forgotten. It provides a positive outlet and reminds us that there’s more to life than what’s immediately in front of us.”

With the success of The Tank at the Polunsky Unit, the agency decided to expand the stations to other regions. As of spring 2024, the O’Daniel and Michael units are in the process of being established.

Though they’re still in the early stages of development, Officer Dezmond Stollings is excited to oversee the ladies of The Tank at the O’Daniel Unit.

“The women will be producing and capturing content for all types of media. Our plan is to get coverage for all female events in Gatesville to spread knowledge, positivity, and inspiration to all incarcerated,” Stollings said.

A female inmate DJ sitting behind radio station equipment — The female version of The Tank radio station and podcast, featuring Rosalyn “Boss Roz” Burdett and crew will be on the air soon from the O’Daniel Unit.

It’s not only a goal for Stollings to make this vison come to life, but for all involved.

“Our goal for the Patrick O’Daniel radio station and podcast is to communicate to every individual that sees a podcast or listens to a radio show that they are not on this journey alone. Incarceration is a journey. You just have to be clear about your destination,” inmate DJ, Rosalyn Burdett “Boss Roz” said. “There are people on this journey with you that know what you’re going through, that understand your struggles, and that are here to help. Our mission and vision are to empower those incarcerated to make positive and lasting changes in their lives in order to build stronger communities both inside and outside the fence.”

The success of The Tank has demonstrated the power of radio to foster connection and community, making it a blueprint for a network of stations.

“Twelve federal institutions, multiple other institutions, the world is hearing this,” Martin said. “To think that what we’re doing has an impact beyond this little footprint in Livingston is huge.”