DiscoverWhite Collar AdviceWhat is the U-shaped Curve of Prison—And Why Does It Trap So Many People?
What is the U-shaped Curve of Prison—And Why Does It Trap So Many People?

What is the U-shaped Curve of Prison—And Why Does It Trap So Many People?

Update: 2025-09-09
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In this episode, I share what I learned inside federal prison about how people adjust, why so many regret their time, and how the U-shaped curve explains it. Early on, I spent my days exercising until Michael Santos asked me how much I’d earn for doing pull ups. That question, along with watching friends panic as release drew near, pushed me to shift. I cut down exercise, started writing, lined up work opportunities, and built something I could show to probation and future employers. Too many people coast at the bottom of the U and then face release with no plan, full of anxiety and regret. I don’t want that for you. If you want to hear more about this adjustment, listen to the podcast version, and you can also read the full blog on White Collar Advice.

Justin Paperny

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What is the U-shaped Curve of Prison—And Why Does It Trap So Many People?

What is the U-shaped Curve of Prison—And Why Does It Trap So Many People?

Justin Paperny