California Governor Pardons Former Inmate Turned Acclaimed Podcaster

Earlonne Woods, co-creator of the groundbreaking 'Ear Hustle' podcast, receives a pardon from Gov. Gavin Newsom for his transformative work and contributions to society.

• Earlonne Woods, co-founder of the award-winning podcast 'Ear Hustle,' was pardoned by California Gov. Gavin Newsom, recognizing his rehabilitation and community impact.
• Woods spent over two decades in prison under California's three-strikes law before his 2018 sentence commutation by former Gov. Jerry Brown made him eligible for parole.
• 'Ear Hustle,' the first podcast produced entirely inside a prison, has garnered over 80 million downloads and was a Pulitzer Prize finalist in 2020 for its unique storytelling about prison life.
• The pardon is expected to help Woods overcome societal barriers, such as employment and travel restrictions, as he continues his work in media and community advocacy.
• Woods is collaborating with actor Morgan Freeman's production company on a new docuseries, further expanding his contributions to storytelling and public awareness.

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