Red Onion Randy - Life in a Supermax Prison

Randall Via-- Red Onion Randy -- was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole in 2001. In this podcast Randy reports on daily life in Red Onion State Prison, the supermax facility in the Virginia Appalachians where he is serving his sentence.

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Recent Reviews
  • Nstynate01
    He’s not bright
    He’s not a bright dude but he was given a platform to talk and ran with it and I enjoy listening to his really terrible takes on things, doesn’t seem like a bad dude honestly and I hope he gets out one day but I really hope people don’t take this dude seriously
  • jake084
    I appreciate this podcast
    Randy’s perspective and talents as a story teller make for a compelling and insightful podcast. I hope he stays the course and steers clear of violence so he can continue his beautiful evolution into a man who leads with kindness and care. It’s refreshing to hear someone try to turn away from ego, grandiosity, and “pride” to embody a deeper and more meaningful spiritual pride.
  • Urge, The
    Perspective
    Hearing Red Onion Randy tell his story helps me to remember the things I take for granted are really special and can change in an instant. Im a little better of a person thanks to ROR. I know you’re locked up but Jesus will free you maybe through the law but for sure when He returns. And He’s returning soon.
  • Timmy_C97
    Five stars⭐️
    I work overnight shifts and podcasts are a necessity, I love this show it gives some real insight into how the maximum security prison life is. Randy is so openly honest and takes accountability for his previous actions, I do hope this man eventually gets out and is able to release his fantasy series! Best of luck my friend.
  • Benglasslaw
    A powerful podcast
    Honestly, this is one of the most powerful podcasts out there. Sure, there are ton of podcasts about making yourself better, and about building, businesses and all but here’s a guy with little to no chance of ever being free, trying to make the best of his life. Honestly, a strong argument against life sentences.
  • Gurlchris
    Amazing
    I watched the documentary. I found the podcast. I love how honest he is. And how self aware he is. True to life down to earth. Keep telling everyone how it is.
  • kimr1317
    Eye opening Podcast
    I stumbled upon this podcast after watching a documentary on solitary and I’m blown away with how open and honest Randy is. This podcast is the perfect mixture of realism, comedy and practical advice. It’s interesting to learn about this life, life in prison and everyday topics. Highly recommend this podcast!
  • berry prockway
    Inspiring
    Randy gives a real life uncensored look at all facets of the criminal justice system. He is inspiring and shows us that even being locked up you can have a beneficial life and can always learn from your mistakes while also helping others.
  • cj8305
    Stereotypical
    He’s a narcissist, who tries to talk himself up like he’s billy Bada**. All while doing woe is me, I’m so mistreated and it’s not fair.. I.e not taking complete responsibility for his actions. He was “man” enough to take a life but not man enough to give up his per the consequences
  • h gaudy gf ffggvv
    Nice job
    Riveting!
  • r8rb88
    Red onion Randy
    Listening from the 757. Good stuff Randy
  • JPgama
    A Glimpse Inside
    Excellent candor from a inmate about life in prison.
  • Jenn-are-in
    Great Podcast
    Ran across Red Onion video on you tube and then found your podcast after watching that, what an amazing guy u are! Keep ur head up and know u have all of us on ur podcast who care for u and are thinking about u. Sending hugs from California!
  • Jkmtres
    Great Poscast
    I look forward to it every week - never miss an episode. Randy tells it like it is and maintains a positive attitude.
  • Chaddy Chaddy bang bang
    Great podcast.
    Love this podcast. Hang in there Randy, I know God is doing great things through you.
  • PasadenaJoe
    Thank You Randy
    I’ve been listening for about two years and have enjoyed hearing you every Thursday. Keep your head up, write daily, read more, and don’t worry about the future. You are outside the wire already.
  • PrincessGracee
    Awesome!
    I could listen to him talk all day! His podcast is one of my favorites. I wish they were longer!! Keep it up Randy!! Love from RVA! :)
  • Cgerk01
    Great PodCast
    Red Onion Randy does a great job of explaining prison life and politics. I’ve done my own prison time in the state of Wisconsin so I can relate. He is also great with putting his thoughts into words and I would almost consider him something of a motivational speaker. I look to his podcast when things in my own life are difficult.
  • Buster Hymin
    Red Onion Randy
    This is a classic case of rehabilitation. Sadly the only way he can proved he has changed is through his prison behavior and his podcast. Keep your head up Randy I haven't done the time you have and don't have to live with taking a life like you have but I've been on the other side of that wall. From a fellow Virginian hold your head up. Great podcast. 804/757/434/276/703/571 VA STAND UP!
  • chinacat317
    Great listen
    You’ll laugh, cry, be shocked and appalled. I found this because of the HBO special. I recommend watching it first
  • SweetwaterArt
    Such a good podcast
    Great podcast! Definitely recommend it. People need to know the inhumane things that go down in American prisons. Thank you randy and team for putting this out. Keep up the good work
  • liltonyx3
    So Interesting
    I found this podcast posted in a group on Facebook. I currently have a relationship with a man incarcerated in W.R.S.P in VA and since listening it’s help me understand my man and how he lives day to day. I love how honest and real Randy is in this podcast.
  • Jutty Jut
    incredible
    the fact Randy is so intelligent with little to no formal education and having been in prison most of his life, is exceptional.
  • billy t franklin
    Great podcast
    I’m a podcast and/or a radio guy. Been so my whole life. This is my go to podcast Great listening.
  • Lolikhfcnk
    Awesome!
    Such an awesome podcast! I love listening to your experiences and the things you been through! Keep up the work and hopefully you will get a release! 10 outta 10!!!!
  • Brianne Hillman
    Interesting!
    Saw him on the documentary & found his podcast. I’ve never been to jail/prison but I find this very interesting.
  • grewupinthe80s
    Convicted murderer
    He’s serving a 1,214 year sentence for capital murder.
  • Cam223
    From one CO to an inmate.
    Hey Randy, I’m currently a CO right now and do enjoy my job here and there. I do enjoy taking care of offenders and making sure they are well taken care of, hearing their problems, hearing their stories and so forth. In other words I’m there to do my job and what I signed up for. Everyone has a story and I do enjoy listening to yours. Keep doing what you’re doing Randy.
  • BeckyH1008
    Keep it up, Randy!
    I was first introduced to Randy in the HBO documentary, Solitary: Inside Red Onion State Prison, and was happy to later learn of this podcast. Randy seems very humble and genuine, and is an absolute pleasure to listen to. His stories about life, both in and out of prison, are told vividly, with equal parts humor, caution, reflection and hope. Whether you’ve ever been incarcerated or not, you’ll love listening to Randy share his experiences, wisdom and life lessons. Randy, I truly hope one day you go on to write a book. I look forward to new episodes every Thursday! Keep it up!
  • PsilyEater
    Nothing But Respect
    One of my favorite to listen to, Randy doesn’t hold back, and is honest as they come. This dude doesn’t deserve the time he got, but I’m not the judge nor jury. I hope he continues to podcast. Thanks for all you do Randy 💪 stay strong 👊!
  • Luckylucas777
    Awesome content!!
    Look forward to your new episodes! Listen to ya all the time at work with headphones on and seen the documentary a few times. Thanks for sharing your story
  • Irishfan-12
    Review from Rachel
    You warm my heart, Randy. I don’t know if you see these reviews but I have to tell you that you are such a sweetheart. I’m so impressed by your resilience. I’ve listened to your experiences with racism and so many other things. Please let your brother visit. It’s not a waste of time or money. You’ll be able to connect even if you can’t touch. Let them see your face. They are RIDICULOUS rules. I’m sending you virtual hugs from here. ((((HUGS)))))
  • MaBalZak
    Informative
    Never been to prison but very interesting.
  • 21Sapo
    New out look
    Thanks for all your help with dealing with jail n lockup
  • lucyturley
    Fabulous
    This is an awesome podcast!
  • Haylox9
    Binge worthy!
    I really enjoy this podcast. Randy reflects on his life with such sincerity. He describes what he’s been through, but it isn’t a bunch of war stories. Also, it’s not depressing like one may think. He has an interesting perspective. You can tell he has had a lot of time to think about these things and he’s come a long way. Great stuff!
  • TommySmallsOpachki
    Big fan!
    Hey love the podcast keep it real in there! And hey where is that donate button man? Trying to slide some for the content, thanks again!
  • Rebarama
    I’m Listening
    I’ve listened to one episode and can’t wait to listen to all the other ones. I’m glad you are doing these. Proud of you and keep safe and strong.
  • jonnybouyyyy
    Great listen
    Randy this is a great listen keep your head up in there man!!
  • branditomosquito
    Top notch
    Great show. Wish there was a way to get this guy on Theo Von’s podcast.
  • xxxxxrated
    Honest and humble
    Randy is a humble person, his conversation is enlightening. He’s not arrogant and passing blame. He shares his life and lessons and looks for peace.
  • Wuadalups
    Inmates voice
    Great to hear all this, gives us out here a sneak peek at what thousands go through. Thank you. We pray for you guys too!
  • 19761985
    Straight Talk
    No idea if everything he says is 100% true, but he does seem to straight forward. Doesn’t sound like it’s from a script. All “off the cuff”. You’ll enjoy this podcast.
  • MsCrimeJunkie
    Informative
    I appreciate the rawness of this podcast the only request I have would be release new episodes more often!
  • lazycops
    Excellent
    I first saw Randall in a documentary and was thrilled to stumble upon this podcast. He is incredibly forthcoming and articulate. He is also a better podcaster than some of the professionals. No smoke and mirrors or dramatics, just his backstory and insights into the endless and lonely drudgery of daily life so many of our American citizens endure. I hope to see a book coming from Randall one day.
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