# Howard Robertson: Discussing the Future of Rikers Island (27 min) | 07-05-26

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/77-wabc-minicasts-5907352/howard-robertson-discussing-the-future-of-rikers-island-27-min-07-05-26
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/77-wabc-minicasts-5907352/howard-robertson-discussing-the-future-of-rikers-island-27-min-07-05-26.md
Podcast: [77 WABC MiniCasts](https://stenobird.com/podcast/77-wabc-minicasts-5907352)
Published: 2026-07-05T23:51:00+00:00
Episode link: https://www.podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/traffic.megaphone.fm/WABC4737394623.mp3
Audio file: https://www.podtrac.com/pts/redirect.mp3/traffic.megaphone.fm/WABC4737394623.mp3
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Duration seconds: 1665

## Resource

Fernando Mateo hosts retired warden Howard Robertson to discuss the deepening crisis at Riker’s Island and the broader philosophy of rehabilitation over incarceration. Mateo opens the program by praising a Supreme Court decision regarding biological sex in sports, arguing that physical differences between men and women make trans-inclusive competition a matter of common sense and safety. The conversation then transitions to the duo's shared history at Riker’s Island, where they implemented vocational programs that provided inmates with trade skills and job placement to break the cycle of recidivism. Robertson critiques the current administration’s plan to close the facility, suggesting that spending billions on borough-based jails is a disingenuous fix that fails to address the underlying leadership failures and cultural issues within the Department of Correction. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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## Transcript

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