Julie Chrisley, best known as the matriarch of the former reality TV series Chrisley Knows Best, is turning her prison sentence into a time of reflection, growth, and service. While many might assume incarceration puts life on hold, Julie is doing the exact opposite—using her time to educate, uplift, and empower others from within the prison walls.

Julie’s daughter, Savannah Chrisley, recently offered listeners a glimpse into her mother’s evolving life behind bars on an episode of her podcast, Unlocked. Through heartfelt letters, Julie shared how she’s spending her time in prison and the remarkable initiatives she’s involved in—revealing that prison hasn’t silenced her; it’s sparked a new chapter.

In one of the letters, Julie revealed, “I’m teaching a real estate class.” With limited access to educational materials and technology, she admitted that preparing the class has been challenging. “If you get the ribbon and commissary, you can access a typewriter and an antiquated book,” she wrote. But rather than letting the lack of resources stop her, she leaned into the challenge. Julie’s commitment to knowledge-sharing and community building has remained unwavering.

But her role as a teacher is only part of the story. Julie is also a student and a participant in other programs offered within the prison. One of the more unique aspects of her involvement includes acting as a judge in a prison-based version of Shark Tank, where incarcerated women pitch business ideas. Julie proudly called herself “a shark” in the exercise. These programs not only keep her mentally stimulated but also give her opportunities to support fellow inmates in discovering their own potential.

These educational and rehabilitative efforts are more than just time-fillers—they have real-world consequences. Under the First Step Act (FSA), inmates who participate in qualifying programs can earn credits toward early release. Julie, like many others, is benefiting from these incentives. Though she expressed mixed feelings about some of the courses—at one point calling her FSA class “a waste of time”—she acknowledged the tangible impact these credits have had on her and others’ paths to freedom.

“I’ve seen people moved up on their release dates,” Julie shared in her letter, highlighting how significant the FSA credits can be. For many inmates, these programs are life-changing. They offer not only hope but the skills and support needed for a successful reentry into society.

Julie also mentioned that she began working on February 27, 2023. While the specifics of her position remain unclear, her excitement was evident. The routine and sense of purpose that comes with having a job, even in prison, have contributed to her continued growth and transformation. She remains steadfast in her mission to better herself and those around her.

Julie Chrisley and her husband, Todd, were both convicted of fraud and tax evasion and originally received a combined sentence of 19 years. However, with the ongoing appeals process, both have had their sentences reduced. Julie is now serving five years, while Todd is serving ten. According to Savannah, their appeal has made progress—the court has accepted oral arguments, a significant step forward for the family.

While she awaits the outcome of her appeal, Julie’s focus remains on personal development and helping others. She has found ways to contribute meaningfully, both through formal education and emotional support. In a setting where many feel forgotten, Julie is doing her best to remind others—and perhaps herself—that growth and healing are still possible.

Her story is one of unexpected resilience. Rather than letting her prison sentence define her, Julie is using it as a platform for transformation. Her commitment to learning, teaching, and giving back to her community speaks volumes about who she is at her core. It also serves as a reminder that redemption can begin in the most unlikely places.

Julie’s journey is far from over, but her actions inside prison walls are proof that change is always within reach. Whether or not her sentence is shortened, she is laying the foundation for a better future—not just for herself, but for everyone she encounters.

Would you like a social media caption or summary to go with this article? It could help boost engagement if you’re planning to share it online.