Josh Smith

#EmployeeWellness is the heart of effective corrections and if we don’t get it right, staff will continue to struggle in the face of challenges. On the next episode of #TransparencyTalks we sit down with Dr. Jason Gabel, Chief of Employee Wellness, to discuss burnout, scenario-based training and leadership systems within the Bureau.

Congratulations to @BOPDirector Bill Marshall on an outstanding first year leading the Bureau of Prisons. In just 12 months, Director Marshall has transformed the culture at BOP with real results: • Built a strong leadership team laser-focused on policy, efficiency, and restoring trust with frontline staff • Launched a First Step Act Task Force to fix credit and placement calculations • Cracked down hard on corruption and contraband smuggling • Deployed Special Operations Response Teams to support ICE missions • Ended the gender ideology extremism of the prior administration This DOJ will continue working hand-in-hand with Director Marshall to give him the necessary resources as he restores accountability, integrity, and transparency to the Bureau of Prisons.

BOP celebrates more than restoration, we celebrate resilience. Six years after the devastating storm that severely damaged #FCIEstill, @BOPDirector Marshall and @BOPDepDirector Smith join staff to honor the phenomenal efforts of the #StrikeTeam in revitalizing the institution. Full Article➡️ bit.ly/4mCLEVo

Effective leadership is grounded in honesty, even when it’s not perfect. On the next episode of #TransparencyTalks, we hear from @BOPDirector Marshall on how the BOP is pulling back the curtain and exposing the good and the bad in pursuit of meaningful change.

On Wednesday, @BOPDirector Marshall and @BOPDepDirector Smith participated in the State of Criminal Justice Policy & Change event hosted by Unify.US, where they shared insights on the current state of the agency and their vision for transformation. Their remarks highlighted how criminal justice advocates, nonprofits, philanthropists, and policymakers can play a vital role in supporting the agency and driving meaningful change.

At the heart of the Bureau’s mission is advancing public safety through transformational change, giving those in our custody a renewed sense of purpose for a fresh start to reentering our communities. We thank @GodBehindBars for their partnership at #FPCAlderson.

A life sentence, a coffee bean, and a turnaround. On the next episode of #TransparencyTalks Damon West, renowned author and keynote speaker, breaks down the coffee bean mindset, staff wellness, and real rehabilitation. Watch the full episode: bit.ly/46wsEkA

Staff are intercepting contraband drone drops, stopping illegal deliveries, investigating staff misconduct, and working with @TheJusticeDept and @USAttorneys Offices nationwide to prosecute visitors, staff members, or inmates who attempt to bring contraband into our facilities. Criminal activity in or around federal prisons will not be tolerated. 👉 bit.ly/4rGhmmp

Thank you to the staff at #USPVictorville for their operational excellence following the recovery of extremely dangerous contraband found near the rear gate of the facility. @BOPDirector Marshall and @BOPDepDirector Smith applaud the team for their determination and focus to ensure safety and security are at the forefront of BOP’s mission.

BOP Facilities Strike Teams are tackling years of neglect ahead of schedule, under budget, and saving taxpayers millions. $2 Billion from @POTUS One Big Beautiful Bill is turning a $4 Billion backlog into results. Watch: bit.ly/49QmrSE

“Workplace Wellness starts with getting the RIGHT people in the RIGHT positions.” Having served in seven BOP institutions, Regional Director, Misty Starr, dives into what meaningful leadership looks like and how staff wellness becomes the framework for action and getting BOP back to the top. Watch the full episode: bit.ly/4ajDNbc #TransparencyTalks

On the 2nd episode of Transparency Talks, Justin Thornton, Chief of Facilities Management, sits down to explain how two billion dollars of the President’s One Big Beautiful Bill will be spent on infrastructure, as well as other topics. Full episode coming soon! #TransparencyTalks #OneBigBeautifulBill

A room full of difference makers last night at Mara Lago! Few more impactful than my friend @AliceMarieFree! Proud to work in this administration with her. Here’s to an impactful 2026!

New Year’s Eve at Mara Lago will be a memory we won’t forget! @realDonaldTrump not only started the night out with a painting of Jesus while worship music was playing, but raised millions for charity. Great event, many great people, and several difference makers in the crowd.

@LeonTalley14 @BOPDepDirector FMC Lexington and their female camp, FCI Manchester and their camp, and USP McCreary

@BOPDepDirector @JoshSmith4PF What three did you visit?

My wife and I spent Christmas Day on the road, 15+hours, visiting 3 institutions unannounced, delivering cookies and saying thank you to staff who showed up. Visitation open, meals served to the population, and staff not forced to work doubles because these staff showed up!

It’s an honor to work with great leaders in DC and in our great state of Tennessee.

Former Executive Director Bryan Collier shares how Texas has closed facilities, opened innovation units, and achieved lower recidivism rates. Despite staffing and contraband challenges, the system continues to evolve with a focus on rehabilitation and outcomes. #prisonlifemedia