The Missing Story: The Battle for Probation's Public Image with Stephen Pitts & Imants Mozers — Part One

*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id= "request-6980e079-2d08-832c-91e0-4a28660cace1-7" data-turn-id-container= "request-6980e079-2d08-832c-91e0-4a28660cace1-7" data-testid= "conversation-turn-638" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn= "assistant"> 🎙️ Episode Show Notes — Part One The Missing Story of Probation with Stephen Pitts & Imants Mozers What is the story probation tells about itself? And perhaps just as importantly… What happens when probation does not tell that story clearly? In this episode of The Criminologist Podcast, we begin a powerful two-part conversation with Stephen Pitts and Imants Mozers, co-authors of the new book: 📘 The Missing Story: Probation, Legitimacy and the Battle for Public Understanding This conversation was so rich, timely, and engaging that we decided to release it as a two-part series. In Part One, Steve and Imants help us explore why probation remains one of the most important — yet often misunderstood — parts of the justice system. Too often, the public hears about probation only when something goes wrong. But what is missing from that narrative? The daily work of supporting change. The quiet building of accountability. The role probation plays in desistance. The contribution probation makes to safer communities. And the professional identity of the people doing this work every day. 🔍 In This Episode, We Discuss: ✅ Why probation has a "missing story" ✅ How public understanding shapes legitimacy ✅ Why probation is often defined by failure rather than impact ✅ The importance of narrative in justice reform ✅ How probation professionals can better communicate their value ✅ The connection between legitimacy, trust, and effective practice ✅ Why probation's identity matters — both internally and externally ✅