This is one of the most inspiring and uplifting shows I have ever done. Artist Ndume Olatushani, 56 years old, spent 28 years in prison, 20 of which on death row, for a crime he did not commit. It took him, his wife Anne-Marie, and his lawyer David Herrington 20 years to set him free. When it appeared that new evidence would be able to prove his innocence, Tennessean judicial authorities offered him an Alford plea: if Ndume renounced to be formally exonerated, he could walk out right away. If not, he would stay in prison during litigation, likely for years. Ndume took the plea.

As a result, he’s been a free man since June 2012. But in the books, he is still considered a felon. Ndume lost his right for compensation, he has no right to vote, the jury and prosecutors who wrongfully convicted him will never have to confront their mistakes. And the real perpetrator never faced justice.

Ndume Olatushani’s Artist Statement

Consider Subscribing for Free to Never Miss an Episode

Click the appropriate link to follow the show so you get every episode of What Matters Most as soon as they’re available!

What Matters Most
What Matters Most
Paul Samuel Dolman

Author, musician, and speaker Paul Samuel Dolman interviews a variety of people on creativity, the arts, relationships, and spirituality.

Your Honest Review of What Matters Most Helps the Show Reach More People!

If you enjoyed this — or any! — episode of the What Matters Most podcast, please leave a review of the show! Reviews help boost the show in rankings, which makes it more visible… and that means more listeners! It’s a great way to spread the word about What Matters Most!

Create your review – click here!

Help Support Future Episodes!

What Matters Most is 100% listener supported by generous pledges from people just like you.

Did this episode speak to you? Please consider pledging your support for as little as $5.00 per month… or pledge at higher levels and enjoy perks like a guided meditation audiobook, a library of Paul Samuel Dolman e-books… and more!

Read The Book That Inspires The Show

Paul Samuel Dolman, author, podcaster, and speaker, presents What Matters Most (the book!) a series of interview transcriptions from more than twenty inspirational Nashville and Tennessee residents, including special guest the journalist and author Bill Moyers.

Nashville Mayor Megan Barry, former Governor Don Sundquist, Academy Award-winning actress Patricia Neal, Grammy Award-winning entertainer Wynonna Judd, and many more share intimate and inspirational aspects of themselves.

This twentieth anniversary edition also features bonus material from thirty more notables from Tennessee, including local business owners, spiritual leaders, coaches, radio personalities, authors, and educators.