Death Row, Due Process & the Last Meal: Dave Hendry

In this episode of PodNumbra, I sit down with Dave Hendry, a retired attorney who spent his career representing death row inmates in post-conviction proceedings with Florida’s Capital Collateral Regional Counsel. Dave shares the winding path that led him to one of the most demanding and emotionally challenging areas of the law. We discuss the weight of handling life-and-death cases, the importance of due process, and how he managed the emotional toll of advocating for clients many had already judged. We also explore the misconceptions surrounding death penalty representation, what the public often gets wrong about the criminal justice system, and even tackle one of the most intriguing traditions surrounding capital punishment—Dave’s thoughts on the infamous “last meal.” Whether you’re interested in criminal justice, constitutional law, or simply hearing the story of someone who dedicated his career to standing firm under extraordinary pressure, this episode offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at one of the most challenging roles in the legal profession. Every episode of PodNumbra reminds us that the path to success is rarely a straight line—and Dave Hendry’s journey is no exception. Follow us on @PodNumbra on Instagram.