Death penalty activists sit down in our studio — one for, one against

On days when someone is executed at Riverbend Maximum Security Institution in Nashville, community members are generally allowed to gather outside the prison in a large field. Separated by fences and distance are the “against” and “for” sides. The “againsts” are usually made up of a few dozen clergy and abolitionists, including one of our guests today — death row chaplain Rev. Tim Holton. The “for” side tends to be much slimmer. Frequently, there’s just one man: our other guest, Rick Laude.

During the course of their conversation in the TIN studio, they learn their lives have a lot in common, particularly the childhood trauma they experienced.  This organically turned into a conversation between them and not an interview by us. We’re along for the ride with you — and grateful to be in the room.