Death penalty headlines tell one story about America. Austin Sarat offers another, helping you distinguish the spectacle of particular executions from the broader changes he believes are moving the country towards abolition.

Surviving an execution sounds like the end of an unimaginable ordeal. It may leave another one ahead. Austin puts today's question alongside earlier survivors, raising the possibility that escaping death once doesn't settle what the state will do next. How often has survival led to a second attempt?

The horror of a crime can make the punishment feel obvious. But Austin draws a line between judging the offender and deciding what society should permit itself to do. Hear how that distinction shapes his argument against returning a survivor to the execution chamber.

Topics: death penalty, abolition, failed execution, punishment, second execution attempts

GUEST: Austin Sarat

Originally aired on 2026-10-14

Death penalty headlines tell one story about America. Austin Sarat offers another, helping you distinguish the spectacle of particular executions from the broader changes he believes are moving the country towards abolition.
Surviving an execution sounds like the end of an unimaginable ordeal. It may leave another one ahead. Austin puts today's question alongside earlier survivors, raising the possibility that escaping death once doesn't settle what the state will do next. How often has survival led to a second attempt?
The horror of a crime can make the punishment feel obvious. But Austin draws a line between judging the offender and deciding what society should permit itself to do. Hear how that distinction shapes his argument against returning a survivor to the execution chamber.
Topics: death penalty, abolition, failed execution, punishment, second execution attempts
GUEST: Austin Sarat
Originally aired on&nbsp;2026-10-14

Shane Hewitt & The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world—always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.

From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane’s signature style—thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.

If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt &amp; The Nightshift is your late-night companion for real talk, bold ideas, and unfiltered conversations that matter. Hosted by Canadian radio veteran Shane Hewitt, each episode dives into the headlines, human stories, and hidden truths shaping our world&mdash;always with curiosity, compassion, and a sharp edge.
From politics and pop culture to mental health, technology, and everyday life, this podcast is where night owls, deep thinkers, and curious minds come to connect. Featuring expert guests, passionate callers, and Shane&rsquo;s signature style&mdash;thoughtful, fearless, and refreshingly real.
If you crave meaningful dialogue, smart perspectives, and late-night radio energy in podcast form, subscribe now and join The Nightshift.

Shane Hewitt and The Nightshift

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.

Shane Hewitt is known for his engaging and relatable on-air personality, which captivates listeners. His ability to blend insightful commentary with humour and empathy creates a genuine connection with listeners.  Shane Hewitt and the Night Shift provides relatable content, informative discussions and expert insights – along with a balance of anecdotes and entertainment.