Law Enforcement Talk: True Crime and Trauma Stories

Tackling The Mafia And Dangers of Informants: Retired FBI Agent Speaks. Special Episode. “This is a part of FBI work the public almost never sees,” Vinton explains. “When you’re Tackling The Mafia And the Dangers of Informants, you’re operating in a world where loyalty is a currency, and betrayal can cost lives or careers.” Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast social media like their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. In a powerful Special Episode now streaming on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and most every major Podcast platform, retired FBI agent and author Tom Vinton offers a rare, firsthand look into the world of organized crime, dangerous informants, and the internal risks faced by federal investigators. Promoted across Facebook, Instagram, and other News outlets, the episode takes listeners deep into the heart of New York’s most violent Mafia crime families, and into the shadows where informants and agents walk a thin line between justice and treachery. Inside the Mafia Wars of the 1980s The episode dives into the turbulent 1980s, a decade defined by upheaval within the Gambino Crime Family, from the Crime Boss's leadership to his shocking 1985 assassination and the meteoric rise of another Boss. Vinton recalls the era as one marked by international heroin trafficking, brutal territorial battles, and the historic Mafia Commission Trial, which took aim at the leadership of all five New York Mafia families. Tackling The Mafia And Dangers of Informants: Retired FBI Agent Speaks. Special Episode. Look for supporting articles about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin . “The Commission Trial was a seismic shift,” Vinton says. “For the first time, the FBI could expose how the families cooperated, organized, and profited. It changed the direction of organized crime investigations forever.” The Perils of Informants: “A Necessary Evil” Vinton’s book, Sanctioned Treachery: Portrait of a Drug Informant, becomes a centerpiece of the episode. Based on his decades-long career investigating organized crime and supervising the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force, the novel brings to life the dangerous dance between agents and the informants they rely on. “Informants are both indispensable and incredibly risky,” Vinton notes. “Some agents have had their careers destroyed, or even ended up in jail, because they trusted the wrong person.” Tackling The Mafia And Dangers of Informants: Retired FBI Agent Speaks. Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. The book follows fictional FBI agent Eddie Michaels and his informant Alonzo “King” Curtis, a charismatic but ruthless operator whose moral compass is as fluid as the criminal underworld he moves through. Drawing on real-life cases, Vinton reveals how informants can both solve major crimes and simultaneously jeopardize investigations, or the agents themselves. “This could have happened,” Vinton says plainly. “Some of it did.” A Career Built on Crime-Fighting and Storytelling Tom Vinton’s own story is as compelling as the cases he describes. Born in New Rochelle and a graduate of Holy Cross, he served as a Marine Corps infantry officer before joining the FBI. His assignments took him ultimately to New York, where he supervised massive organized crime and drug investigations. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast episode is available for free on their website , Apple Podcasts , Spotify and most major podcast platforms. After retiring from the Bureau, Vinton became Deputy Commissioner of the Westchester County Police and launched a consulting business. But writing remained a passion. Tackling The Mafia And Dangers of Informants. “A professor once told me that writing would serve me no matter what...

Protecting The Lives Of American Law Enforcement Officers: A Special Episode on Trauma, Health, and Hope. The average life expectancy for American law enforcement officers is just 57 years, a stark contrast to the general population’s 78 to 79 years. Behind that number lies a sobering reality: a career spent protecting others often comes at the expense of one’s own health. This special episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast is available for free on their website, also on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and many other podcast platforms. Heart disease, chronic stress, trauma, and the relentless demands of the badge all play a role. “Many officers only live a few years into retirement,” says John Jay Wiley, host of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast. “That’s not just a statistic, it’s a tragedy that reflects the immense pressure these men and women endure.” Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast social media like their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. In this Special Episode, available on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, X, Apple, Spotify, and Radio, Wiley welcomes Eric Caron, a retired U.S. Special Agent and Diplomat, to discuss the unseen toll of the job, and the urgent need to protect the mental and physical well-being of those who protect us. Look for supporting articles about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin . The Hidden Cost of the Badge, Protecting The Lives Of American Law Enforcement Officers: A Special Episode on Trauma, Health, and Hope. Officers face risks that go beyond the dangers of the streets. Studies show that law enforcement professionals have: A much higher rate of heart disease, with heart attacks often striking as early as age 46, compared to 65 in the general population. Elevated risks of hypertension, diabetes, and obesity, conditions tied directly to chronic stress and irregular shift work. Shorter retirements, with many officers passing away just a few years after leaving the job. “It’s not just the stress of one bad day,” Wiley explains. “It’s the accumulation of hundreds of critical incidents over a career, what we call death by a thousand cuts.” Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. The Psychological Battle Caron, who spent years investigating child pornography and sex crimes, describes the haunting reality of prolonged exposure to such cases. “When you’re staring into that darkness every day, it leaves a mark,” he says. “You see the worst of humanity, and it takes discipline and community to not let that darkness consume you.” Protecting The Lives Of American Law Enforcement Officers: A Special Episode on Trauma, Health, and Hope. According to research, trauma in law enforcement leads to alarmingly high rates of PTSD, depression, and anxiety: PTSD rates among police officers reach as high as 35%*, compared to 6.8% in the general population. Officers are far more likely to experience emotional numbing, hyperarousal, and flashbacks from traumatic events. Many suffer from compassion fatigue**, a type of emotional burnout caused by repeated exposure to tragedy and human suffering. Caron explains that repeated exposure to graphic violence and child exploitation can cause what psychologists call traumatic layering. “It’s not one event, it’s hundreds,” he says. “Each one leaves a scar.” The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast episode is available for free on their website , Apple Podcasts , Spotify and most major podcast platforms. The Ripple Effects The consequences of trauma ripple through every aspect of an officer’s life: Emotional strain often leads to relationship issues and isolation. Negative coping mechanisms, like alcohol or substance use, are far too common. Cognitive impairment from chronic stress affects memory,...

Prison And The State Police, Bomb Squad In Arizona, Special Episode. When retired Arizona State Trooper Ken Emerson looks back on his career, few memories stand out more vividly than the prison hostage crisis that shook the state, and the nation. Emerson, who served on the Arizona Department of Public Safety Bomb Squad and the door-entry SWAT team, found himself on scene during the longest prison hostage crisis in U.S. history. Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast social media like their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. “It was unlike anything I’d ever experienced,” Emerson recalls in a special episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast. “We were trained for chaos, but nothing prepares you for a standoff that lasts fifteen days.” This special episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast is available for free on their website, also on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and many other podcast platforms. The Arizona State Prison Complex-Lewis hostage crisis unfolded in January 2004, when two inmates took control of a prison tower and held Correctional Officer Lois Fraley hostage. For fifteen harrowing days, law enforcement, negotiators, and tactical units worked tirelessly to bring the situation to a peaceful resolution. Look for supporting articles about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin . From Military to Bomb Squad: A Natural Transition For Emerson, police work was a natural evolution after his military service. “Police work was the perfect transition for me after leaving the military,” he explains. “The structure, the mission, and the sense of purpose were all there. But on the Bomb Squad, you add a new layer of danger and precision.” Prison And The State Police, Bomb Squad In Arizona, Special Episode. As part of one of the busiest bomb squads in the country, Emerson and his team were on call around the clock, responding to suspicious packages, explosive devices, and hazardous materials. “We were constantly moving,” he says. “From dignitary protection details to potential IED threats, there was never a dull moment.” Inside the Life of a Bomb Squad Technician The Bomb Squad, officially known as the Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) or Hazardous Devices Unit, is often portrayed in movies as high-octane and glamorous. But Emerson says Hollywood gets most of it wrong. Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. “Movies make it look like we’re cutting red and blue wires under pressure every day,” he laughs. “In reality, it’s a lot more technical. There’s a ton of planning, teamwork, and calm decision-making involved.” Bomb technicians rely on an arsenal of tools and technology, bomb suits, remote-controlled robots, portable X-ray machines, and containment vessels all designed to protect life and minimize risk. “Our mission is simple,” Emerson says. “Make sure everyone goes home alive at the end of the day.” Prison And The State Police, Bomb Squad In Arizona, Special Episode. The Arizona Prison Hostage Crisis On January 18, 2004, chaos erupted at the Arizona State Prison Complex-Lewis in Buckeye when two inmates overpowered guards and seized a watchtower. Inside, they held Correctional Officer Lois Fraley and Officer Jason Auch hostage at gunpoint. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast episode is available for free on their website , Apple Podcasts , Spotify and most major podcast platforms. For fifteen days, the crisis gripped national headlines. Emerson and his team were called to the scene as part of the tactical response. “Our primary concern was the safety of everyone, the hostages, the officers, and even the inmates,” Emerson remembers. “Every move we made was calculated. We were dealing with explosives, firearms, and an unpredictable situation.” During the ordeal, Fraley...

Horses for Healing Trauma: Former Police Officer Speaks. A former police officer opens up about losing his partner, battling PTSD, and how horses helped him heal. Listen to this powerful special episode. A Powerful Journey of Recovery and Purpose in this Special Episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast. This special episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast is available for free on their website, also on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and many other podcast platforms. In a special episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast, listeners are introduced to a deeply moving story of loss, redemption, and the power of horses to heal trauma. It’s a story that forces us to ask: Did horses save his life? Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast social media like their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. The episode features a Nate Fisher, a former police officer whose journey from despair to purpose shines a light on the struggles many first responders and veterans face after years of service. “When my police partner was killed, everything changed,” he recalls. “He was a rookie, and I was the one training him. Seeing his lifeless body broke something inside me.” Look for supporting articles about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin . A Spiral Into Darkness, Horses for Healing Trauma: Former Police Officer Speaks. The trauma of that moment compounded years of emotional strain from both law enforcement and military service. His marriage began to crumble, and the burden of grief became unbearable. “I didn’t know how to cope,” he admitted. “I started self-medicating with alcohol and other destructive behaviors. It felt like there was no way out.” As the darkness grew, suicidal thoughts began to take hold. One day, he reached the breaking point and attempted to end his life. “The only reason I’m still here is because my handgun jammed,” he said. “That failure turned out to be the reason I got a second chance.” Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. Finding Hope Through Horses That second chance came through an unexpected source, horses. Introduced to equine care by a new girlfriend, he discovered that working with horses provided a peace he hadn’t felt in years. “At first, I didn’t understand it,” he said. “But horses don’t judge. They sense your emotions. When I was angry, they pulled away. When I was calm, they came closer. They made me face what I was running from.” Through consistent work with horses, he began to rebuild trust, patience, and emotional control. “The horses taught me to breathe again,” he said. “They helped me find purpose.” Today, he shares his message through the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast, helping others in law enforcement and the military confront PTSD and seek healing. Horses for Healing Trauma: Former Police Officer Speaks. The Science Behind Equine Therapy Equine therapy, also known as Equine-Assisted Therapy (EAT), has been gaining attention as a promising treatment for PTSD. This form of therapy involves working with horses in a supportive, structured environment to promote emotional recovery and personal growth. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast episode is available for free on their website , Apple Podcasts , Spotify and most major podcast platforms. Research published in the "Journal of Clinical Psychiatry" and led by Drs. Yuval Neria and Prudence Fisher of Columbia University’s "Man O’ War Project" found that equine therapy can significantly reduce PTSD and depression symptoms in veterans. Dr. Neria explains, “Both PTSD patients and horses are preoccupied with ongoing concerns about trust and safety. This innovative therapy facilitates bonding, overcoming fear, and re-establishing confidence. One must build trust with...

Detective Shot Multiple Times by a Criminal: Amazing Story. A powerful true story from California, Detective Ali Perez was shot multiple times by a criminal during a gun battle. His amazing story of faith, forgiveness, and survival has inspired thousands across the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast social media like their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. A Deadly Encounter in Lakeside, California. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast, is available for free on their website, also on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and many other podcast platforms. It was a quiet day in Lakeside, California, when Detective Ali Perez and Sergeant Craig Johnson of the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department arrived at an apartment on Mapleview Street. Their mission was to confront a criminal suspect accused of possessing pornographic images of his girlfriend’s young daughters. Look for supporting articles about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin . What began as a standard child abuse investigation quickly turned into a deadly ambush. Detective Shot Multiple Times by a Criminal: His Amazing Story. According to the San Diego Sheriff’s Department, the criminal opened fire with a .308-caliber rifle, sparking a 15-minute gun battle that left both detectives seriously wounded. Perez was hit twice, once in the stomach and once in the shoulder, while Johnson was struck in the arm and side. “Gunfire erupted almost immediately,” officials said, describing how a SWAT officer risked his life to pull the wounded detectives out of the line of fire. Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. A Near-Death Experience and a Divine Vision As Detective Perez lay bleeding on the floor, he began to accept that he might not make it out alive. That’s when something extraordinary happened. Detective Shot Multiple Times by a Criminal: His Amazing Story. “I saw my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ,” Perez later testified. “He appeared seated in a chair between me and the shooter.” Perez said that Jesus handed him a note that read: “I want you to bless him.” Even as he fought for his life, Perez obeyed. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast episode is available for free on their website , Apple Podcasts , Spotify and most major podcast platforms. “I looked at the suspect and said, ‘God bless you, brother.’” To his surprise, the suspect hesitated. At one point, he even laid beside the wounded detective and said, “Hey, let’s go out together.” When the shooter retreated into a hallway, Perez saw his chance to escape. “I knew I didn’t want to die and leave my family behind,” he said. “But looking at Jesus, I knew it was going to be all right.” Detective Shot Multiple Times by a Criminal: His Amazing Story. Covered in blood, he managed to crawl to safety. He would later undergo nine hours of surgery and more than 20 additional operations to recover. A Horrific Crime Exposed The motive behind the deadly confrontation was almost too disturbing to believe. The full podcast episode is streaming now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and across Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. The Shooter's girlfriend testified that she had discovered pornographic images and videos of her two daughters, just 6 and 8 years old, on his cell phone. He told her that he intended to sell them to a child pornography website for $50,000. She immediately fled the apartment with her children and contacted the authorities. Moments later, Detective Perez knocked on the door, and the gunfire began. Courage Under Fire and a Lifelong Recovery. Detective Shot Multiple Times by a Criminal: His Amazing Story. Both Detective Perez and Sgt. Johnson were rushed to the hospital, where they underwent extensive surgeries. Despite life-threatening injuries, both survived. Perez, at that...

Rescue Dogs Trained To Be PTSD Service Animals For Vets: From Shelter to Service. In a powerful Special Episode Podcast of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show, listeners are introduced to an inspiring story of second chances, for both people and dogs. Brett Simon from Big Dog Ranch Rescue in Palm Beach County, Florida, joins host Jay Wiley to share how rescue dogs are being trained to become PTSD service animals for veterans. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast, is available for free on their website, also on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and many other podcast platforms. “Every dog deserves a chance, and every veteran deserves help,” says Simon, a former Police K9 Handler and Military Combat Contractor who spent years working with canines in high-stress combat zones. “When we connect the two, a rescue dog needing purpose and a veteran needing healing, something extraordinary happens.” The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast promoted across their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. From the Shelter to Service At Big Dog Ranch Rescue (BDRR), the largest cage-free, no-kill rescue in the United States, dogs once abandoned in shelters are given new lives through their Veteran Service Dog Training Program. The initiative not only transforms the lives of veterans struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) but also saves the lives of the dogs themselves. Look for supporting articles about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin . The program’s mission is simple yet profound: give rescue dogs a second chance by training them to become PTSD service dogs for veterans and active-duty military personnel. “We’re giving hope twice,” Simon explains. “To the veteran who’s struggling and to the dog who was once unwanted.” Rescue Dogs Trained To Be PTSD Service Animals For Vets: From Shelter to Service. The Healing Power of the Human-Animal Bond PTSD service dogs are specially trained to perform tasks that help alleviate symptoms and improve daily functioning for individuals living with post-traumatic stress. These dogs offer comfort, protection, and companionship, often becoming an essential part of a veteran’s healing journey. Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. Some of the trained tasks include: Interrupting flashbacks or anxiety attacks: by nudging or placing their head on their handler’s lap. Providing comfort: through deep pressure therapy by leaning or lying against the veteran. Blocking and covering: positioning themselves in front or behind the veteran to create a sense of security. Waking from nightmares: recognizing distress and gently waking the veteran. Encouraging social interaction: helping veterans reconnect and feel more at ease in public spaces. “PTSD doesn’t go away overnight,” Simon says. “But when you have a loyal companion who senses your anxiety and helps ground you, it changes everything. These dogs are trained not just to obey, they’re trained to care.” Rescue Dogs Trained To Be PTSD Service Animals For Vets: From Shelter to Service. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast episode is available for free on their website , Apple Podcasts , Spotify and most major podcast platforms. Backed by the Veterans Administration The Veterans Administration recognizes Big Dog Ranch Rescue’s program as a “Non-Traditional and Innovative” form of therapy. Through this recognition, BDRR works closely with the VA to ensure veterans receive comprehensive support while integrating their new service dogs into their daily lives. Training is provided entirely free of charge for veterans, although those from out of state are required to complete a 21-day on-site training session at the ranch in Florida (which may be spread over several months). Sponsorship opportunities are often available...

A Different Way To Treat PTSD? Combat Veteran Speaks. In a powerful Special Episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast, listeners are introduced to a man whose life mission is transforming the way people think about trauma, healing, and post-traumatic growth. Dr. Matthew Burke, a Combat Veteran, author, and Ph.D., opens up about his personal battle with PTSD, his journey toward healing, and how he’s helping others do the same. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast promoted across their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. Burke’s approach is far from conventional, and that he says is part of the reason why they are successful, and exactly what makes it work. His story explores a Different Way To Treat PTSD, one rooted in faith, purpose, and nature. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast, is available for free on their website, also on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and many other podcast platforms. From the Battlefield to Building a Mission Dr. Matthew Burke served 13 years in the U.S. Air Force and completed four deployments before his life took a drastic turn. The toll of combat-related trauma left deep scars, not only on him but also on his family. A Different Way To Treat PTSD? Combat Veteran Speaks. Look for supporting articles about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin . “I didn’t fully understand how much my experiences had affected me until I came home,” Burke shared. “The trauma doesn’t just stay on the battlefield; it follows you into every part of your life.” Determined to reclaim his health, Burke began searching for a more effective way to heal, one that didn’t rely solely on traditional talk therapy or heavy medication. His journey led him to create 10 CAN Outdoors, an organization designed to help Veterans, first responders, and families recover from trauma by reconnecting with nature and faith. Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. Education, Experience, and Purpose Burke’s educational background is as impressive as his service record. He earned a Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration (Emergency Management), an M.A. in Youth Ministry, and a B.S. in Criminal Justice. He’s also the author of Saving Heroes and Raising Outdoorsmen, two books that reflect his mission to equip others with the tools to rebuild their lives. His programs are grounded in a balance of science, faith, and practical action. “Many assume that anything ‘Christian’ equates to religion,” Burke explained. “But that’s not the case with our organization. Translated, we foster Hope (Christian), Excitement (Adventure), and Collaboration (Network). Hope is the most powerful weapon against suicide, but it must be backed by structure and sustainable growth.” A Different Way To Treat PTSD? Combat Veteran Speaks. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast episode is available for free on their website , Apple Podcasts , Spotify and most major podcast platforms. When asked if he Believes There’s a Cure for PTSD? For years, PTSD was considered one of the most complex psychological conditions to treat. The standard approach often involved medication, prolonged therapy, or even experimental treatments. But Burke and his team began asking a new question: Is there a better way to heal? “10 CAN didn’t believe there was a cure for PTSD, not until we saw people start to truly change,” Burke said. “Once we combined outdoor adventure, peer support, and spiritual readiness, the results were undeniable. Healing doesn’t have to be clinical or confined to an office. It can be experienced out in the world, through connection, challenge, and faith.” The full podcast episode is streaming now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and across Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. About 10 CAN, Inc. Founded by Burke, 10 CAN, Inc.,...

Her College Son’s Death: A Much Needed and Tough Conversation. Special Episode. In one of the most emotionally powerful and necessary conversations to date, the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast presents a special episode titled “Her College Son’s Death, A Much Needed and Tough Conversation.” This deeply personal discussion explores life after unimaginable loss the death of a college-aged son, and how one mother transformed her grief into a mission to help others. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast, is available for free on their website, also on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and many other podcast platforms. The guest for this special episode is Melissa Bottorf-Arey, a mother, author, certified grief companion, and the creator and host of The Leftover Pieces: Suicide Loss Conversations Podcast. Her story begins on a day that forever divided her life into “before” and “after.”. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast promoted across their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. “On Sunday, August 7, 2016, my life was obliterated, shattered beyond recognition,” Melissa shared. “From that day forward, my life would be measured in ‘before’ and ‘after.’ My oldest son, Alex, had been home from college for five weeks… and then he was gone.” Look for supporting articles about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin . Alex, a 21-year-old college junior, was described by his mother as compassionate, bright, and loved by many. Yet, like so many college students, he faced growing stress, academic pressures, and hidden mental health struggles. Her College Son’s Death: A Much Needed and Tough Conversation. Special Episode. “He had a lot on his plate,” Melissa recalled. “He was involved in his fraternity, juggling academics, relationships, and leadership roles. He saw someone at the school counseling center a time or two, but they were overloaded. He didn’t want to burden anyone, he preferred being the one helping others.” Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. On July 29, 2016, Melissa helped her son pack his car to return to school. That would be the last day they spoke. “We laughed and joked as he hugged me and said, ‘Don’t cry, Mom, I’ll be home in two weeks for a birthday.’ Eight days later, my youngest son stood in front of me, trying to say the words, ‘Alex is dead, Mom.’” Alex had died by suicide. The pain, Melissa said, was indescribable, “My heart lay in shattered pieces all around me.” The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast episode is available for free on their website , Apple Podcasts , Spotify and most major podcast platforms. In the aftermath, Melissa faced a darkness that few can imagine. But over time, she chose to rebuild, one piece at a time. Her College Son’s Death: A Much Needed and Tough Conversation. Special Episode. “Deciding to start the work of picking up my leftover pieces was beyond hard,” she said. “It was lonely and required many intentional choices. Yet, with support and tools, I learned to live successfully alongside my grief, most of the time, anyway.” Her healing journey inspired her to help others walking the same road. She became a Master Certified Grief Companion, trauma-informed group leader, and author of multiple books. Most notably, she founded The Leftover Pieces: Suicide Loss Conversations Podcast, a safe space for survivors of suicide loss to connect, share, and heal. “I knew I had to do something,” Melissa said. “I wanted to create a community of comfort, connection, and healing, especially for those who’ve lost someone to suicide. That’s how The Leftover Pieces began.” The full podcast episode is streaming now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and across Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Her podcast has since grown into an online community offering grief...

What Is a Podcast and What Is Your Show About? Inside the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast is a powerful voice in the world of true stories, crime discussions, and real-life accounts from those who have faced trauma head-on. But for those who may be wondering "What is a podcast and what is your show about?” This special edition of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast offers the full picture. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast promoted across their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. A Nationally Syndicated Radio Show Reaching Millions. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast, is available for free on their website, also on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and many other podcast platforms. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show isn’t just "another" podcast, it’s a nationally syndicated radio show with a massive audience across the United States. Syndicated by Talk Media Network, the show currently has 146 AM-FM commercial AM-FM affiliate radio stations, with a combined U.S. population reach of 48 million people. Look for supporting articles about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin . Host John Jay Wiley estimates that “our actual radio listening audience is around 4 million people per week,” which adds up to an incredible 208 million listeners per year. He added, “We hope to announce our 147th affiliate radio station very soon.” After each broadcast airs on radio, episodes are converted to podcast format, offered 100% free of charge to listeners worldwide. However, the team emphasizes that these podcasts are never released while they’re still airing on the radio network, keeping both experiences distinct. What Is a Podcast and What Is Your Show About? Inside the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast. The Show’s Focus: Real Stories, Not Sales So, what exactly is the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show about? Wiley explained, “Our show is never a lecture, and it’s definitely not an infomercial or a sales pitch. It’s about people’s stories.” Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. While many guests happen to be authors, speakers, podcasters, or subject-matter experts, the show’s core is deeply personal storytelling. “The show isn’t about promoting someone’s work,” Wiley said. “It’s about what they’ve been through.” He went on to explain that many people assume podcasts are lecture-based or promotional, but the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast breaks that stereotype entirely. With over 750 free episodes available, listeners are sure to find topics that resonate, whether it’s overcoming trauma, surviving crime, or exploring life after a career in law enforcement. What Is a Podcast and What Is Your Show About? Inside the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast episode is available for free on their website , Apple Podcasts , Spotify and most major podcast platforms. “Doing for Radio What the ID Channel Does for Television” In describing the show’s tone, Wiley often says it’s “doing for radio what the ID Channel does for television.” While there’s no affiliation with Investigation Discovery or its parent company Warner Bros. Discovery, there’s a shared commitment to gripping, real-life storytelling. “We’ve even had guests who’ve appeared on various ID Channel shows,” Wiley noted. “We’re completely separate. Our goal is simply to bring those same kinds of powerful, human stories to the radio airwaves and podcast platforms.” Real Stories From Real People At its heart, the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast is a personal experience program. Roughly 80% of guests share their firsthand experiences with trauma, whether from crime, law enforcement service, military...

US Navy SEAL’s Alcoholism and Recovery: Overcoming Moral Injury and Finding Life After the Teams in Virginia. Dr. Tony Dice’s life reads like a movie script, except the hero’s greatest battle wasn’t on a battlefield, but within himself. A veteran U.S. Navy SEAL, firefighter, and paramedic, Dice once lived by the warrior’s code: strength, resilience, and mission above all. But beneath that armor, the wounds, both seen and unseen, began to surface. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast, is available for free on their website, also on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and many other podcast platforms. “I blew up my life with alcohol and drugs because I didn’t know how to deal with the trauma,” Dice admitted. “When you come home, the mission changes, but nobody teaches you how to survive that part.” The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast promoted across their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. The U.S. Navy SEALs, short for Sea, Air, and Land Teams, are the Navy’s elite special operations force. They’re handpicked and trained to perform the most dangerous missions in the world: direct action, counter-terrorism, and reconnaissance behind enemy lines. Roughly 2,700 SEALs serve across ten active teams, carrying on a legacy that began in World War II with the Amphibious Scouts and Raiders, formed in Little Creek, Virginia. Look for supporting articles about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin . For Dice, becoming a SEAL was the fulfillment of a lifelong dream that he didn't how that he was looking for. But after leaving the Teams, he faced a reality he wasn’t prepared for, moral injury, addiction, and the long road to recovery. US Navy SEAL’s Alcoholism and Recovery: Overcoming Moral Injury and Finding Life After the Teams in Virginia. Moral Injury: The Wound Beneath the Surface While PTSD is often discussed in the context of combat trauma, moral injury is a quieter, deeper wound. It occurs when someone experiences or witnesses events that violate their personal moral beliefs, a sense of having crossed lines that can’t be uncrossed. Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. “You train to do the impossible,” Dice explained. “But what nobody prepares you for is the guilt, the loss, or the grief that follows. That’s what moral injury is, it’s a wound to the soul.” For years, alcohol and drugs became Dice’s way of coping. The same discipline and intensity that made him a great operator turned against him in addiction. He calls that time “a self-destruction mission I didn’t even see happening.” Rebuilding: Life After the Teams in Virginia Dr. Dice eventually sought help, and found a new purpose. Through counseling, recovery, and reflection, he discovered that his mission wasn’t over. It had simply changed. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast episode is available for free on their website , Apple Podcasts , Spotify and most major podcast platforms. Based in Virginia, Dice works to help veterans, first responders, and law enforcement officers confront trauma and rebuild their lives. Alongside friend Scott Bishop, he co-founded Bishop and Dice Defense LLC, a company built on two pillars: behavioral health and defense innovation. US Navy SEAL’s Alcoholism and Recovery: Overcoming Moral Injury and Finding Life After the Teams in Virginia. “We wanted to create something that serves both the mind and the body,” Dice said. “Our operators and first responders need armor, not just for the fight, but for the recovery.” The Mission of Bishop and Dice Defense Bishop and Dice Defense provides both behavioral health services and mission-critical protective solutions for the U.S. military, federal agencies, and first responders. Their approach is culturally competent and trauma-informed, meaning every clinician...

The Truth About Being a Cop: Lessons From a Reserve Deputy in Colorado. A Special Episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast. Hollywood and the media often paint a glamorous, high-speed picture of police work. But as Len Herstein, a Reserve Deputy in Colorado, reveals, the truth is far more complex, and far more human. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast promoted across their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. “It’s far more boring, far more dangerous, and far more impactful on your mental and physical health than most people realize,” Len says during a special episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast, now available on their website, also on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and many other podcast platforms. This is The Truth About Being a Cop, a story about service, sacrifice, and the lessons policing can teach us all about vigilance, leadership, and life. Look for supporting articles about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin . A Late Calling to Serve At age 45, Len Herstein traded business meetings for patrol briefings. After decades in marketing and entrepreneurship, he joined the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office as a Reserve Deputy Sheriff, a volunteer position that requires up to 850 hours of service per year. The Truth About Being a Cop: Lessons From a Reserve Deputy in Colorado. A Special Episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast “I do police work for free,” Len explains. “People think I’m crazy when they hear that, but for me, it’s about giving back. It’s about being part of the solution.” Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. Douglas County, Colorado is located between Denver and Colorado Springs, it is one of the fastest-growing areas in the state. For Len, it’s also a classroom for learning lessons that reach far beyond the badge. “Complacency Kills” — The Lesson That Changed Everything Early in his training, Len learned one of the most important principles in law enforcement: “Complacency kills.” The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast episode is available for free on their website , Apple Podcasts , Spotify and most major podcast platforms. “When you stop paying attention, when you assume things are safe, that’s when the danger strikes,” he says. “That lesson hit me hard, and it applies to every part of life and business.” This revelation became the inspiration behind his book, Be Vigilant! Strategies to Stop Complacency, Improve Performance, and Safeguard Success, where Len connects lessons from policing to the world of leadership and marketing. The Truth About Being a Cop: Lessons From a Reserve Deputy in Colorado. A Special Episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast Lessons for Business, Marketing, and Leadership Before becoming a Deputy, Len spent more than 30 years in the corporate world, building brands for Coca-Cola, Campbell Soup Company, and Nabisco. He later founded ManageCamp Inc., where he produced 19 annual Brand ManageCamp marketing conferences, attracting leaders from companies like Facebook, Apple, and Google. The full podcast episode is streaming now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and across Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. But his time in law enforcement taught him something no boardroom ever could. “Policing forces you to be aware, to anticipate threats before they appear,” Len says. “That’s exactly what businesses need to survive in today’s world. Complacency can be fatal, whether you’re on the street or in the C-suite.” His blend of law enforcement experience and marketing expertise has made him a sought-after speaker and thought leader, teaching organizations how to build vigilance into their culture and operations. Why Complacency Is the Real Enemy “Success can be deadly,” Len explains. “When...

Death in a Police Battle, Trauma as a Combat Veteran and Childhood.“From surviving horrific childhood abuse to fighting wars overseas, and later facing tragedy in uniform, Joe Smarro’s life is a story of trauma, transformation, and a relentless drive to heal.” This episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast, available for free on our website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and most podcast platforms. Joe Smarro, a former San Antonio Police Officer and decorated U.S. Marine Corps combat veteran, has walked through some of life’s darkest battles, both internal and external. His story begins in a childhood marked by extreme abuse, physical, emotional, and sexual. “I experienced things no child ever should,” Joe shares. “I left home at 15 just to survive.” The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast promoted across their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. By 17, he was a father, a role that forced him to grow up even faster. With the responsibilities of parenthood and the desire to build a better future, Joe joined the United States Marine Corps. He deployed twice to Iraq, serving in both Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, earning recognition for his bravery and service. But like so many others, Joe came home from war carrying invisible wounds. Look for supporting stories about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin . After leaving the military, Joe found a new sense of duty in law enforcement, joining the San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) in 2005. However, his time as an officer would soon test him in ways he could never have imagined. While still a probationary officer, Joe was involved in a violent confrontation that ended in a death in a police battle. “It was the moment everything changed,” he recalls. “The fight, the death, the silence afterward, it all forced me to confront the trauma I’d been burying since childhood and combat.” Death in a Police Battle, Trauma as a Combat Veteran and Childhood. That moment became a turning point. Joe began to realize that his struggles, his pain, guilt, and emotional turmoil, were not weaknesses but warning signs. Signs that he, like many others, was carrying deep trauma as a combat veteran and as a police officer. Instead of running from it, Joe made a choice, to face it head-on and help others do the same. Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. Joe became one of the founding members of the SAPD Mental Health Unit (MHU), a groundbreaking program created to improve how police respond to individuals in crisis. What began as a small initiative grew into a nationally recognized model for compassionate policing, earning national and international awards for excellence. “We wanted to change the narrative, to bring empathy back to policing,” Joe explains. For more than 11 years, Joe served in that unit, developing training and protocols that have since influenced departments across the United States. His work, both on the streets and behind the scenes, showed that when law enforcement meets mental health with compassion, lives are saved, and trust is rebuilt. Joe’s story gained national attention through the Emmy Award-winning documentary, Ernie & Joe: Crisis Cops, which follows two officers as they work to change how police respond to mental health calls in San Antonio. The film, supported by the IDA Enterprise Fund, Fork Films, and The Lovell Foundation, has been shown worldwide, sparking critical conversations about mental health, policing, and reform. Death in a Police Battle, Trauma as a Combat Veteran and Childhood. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast episode is available for free on their website , Apple Podcasts , Spotify and most major podcast platforms. He also took his message to the stage, delivering a powerful TEDx...

Life After Police Work: And Yes, Old Dogs Can Learn New Tricks, Special Episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast. Where John Jay Wiley is a guest on the Don’t Be Caged By Your Age” Podcast. For many, retirement means slowing down. But for John Jay Wiley, a retired Baltimore police sergeant turned nationally syndicated radio broadcaster, “life after police work” became an opportunity to reinvent himself and inspire others along the way. I'm a guest on this special episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast, available for free on their website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and most podcast platforms. In a recent special episode of the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast, Wiley shared his journey as a guest on Ande Lyons’ “Don’t Be Caged By Your Age” Podcast, a program dedicated to helping people thrive after 65. Their conversation centered on resilience, reinvention, and proving that, yes, old dogs can learn new tricks. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast promoted across their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. “I never saw age as a limitation,” Wiley explained. “Age and experience are tremendous assets, not weaknesses. I never encountered ageism in my job journey because I refused to let others dictate the kind of life I wanted to build.” Look for supporting stories about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin . From Police Sergeant to Podcaster Wiley’s transition came after a career-ending injury forced him to leave the Baltimore Police Department. Instead of letting the setback define his future, he pivoted into broadcasting. Over time, he built a career as a nationally syndicated radio host and podcaster, launching the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show to give first responders, veterans, and their families a platform to share their real stories. “Resilience and mental health are topics we can’t ignore,” Wiley said during the conversation. “Our show isn’t about headlines or quick soundbites, it’s about honest, authentic voices that deserve to be heard.” Embracing Technology: Old Dogs, New Tricks Beyond radio, Wiley also had to confront a new challenge: technology. The digital era has transformed communication, and for someone whose career began long before smartphones and social media, that meant embracing change. Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. “The question was, could this old dog learn new tricks?” Wiley joked. “Not only did I have to embrace technology, but I also had to use it as a tool, to grow financially, expand my reach, and create multiple streams of revenue.” Today, Wiley connects with audiences across Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, and on streaming platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify. By using these tools, he’s built a national radio an international following while keeping the stories of first responders at the center of his mission. Challenging Age Stereotypes Ande Lyons, host of Don’t Be Caged By Your Age, praised Wiley’s approach to reinvention:“John Jay is a remarkable storyteller and advocate. He’s living proof that thriving after 65 is possible, and that old assumptions about aging no longer apply. His courage to adapt and grow is exactly what inspires my audience.” The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast episode is available for free on their website , Apple Podcasts , Spotify and most major podcast platforms. Lyons’ podcast itself is a pro-aging show that features weekly conversations with individuals who defy age-related stereotypes. Its goal is to provide ideas, resources, and inspiration for anyone who wants to flourish later in life. Wiley’s story was a perfect fit. Building the Life You Want For Wiley, the key has been mindset. “It’s about creating the life you want,” he explained. “Not the life...

From the Drug Violence of Miami to Colombia: His DEA Journey to the Cali Cartel. His early start in Law Enforcement was as a part-time police officer on the Jersey Shore, which eventually led to his role in one of the most dangerous assignments in law enforcement history, Chris Feistl’s career is a story of grit, perseverance, and determination. His journey took him from the drug violence of Miami to Colombia, where he helped dismantle the infamous Cali Cartel, a saga now immortalized in books, podcasts, and Netflix series like Narcos. Chris Feistl is our guest on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast, available for free on their website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and most podcast platforms. “Miami was chaos during those years,” Feistl recalls. “The violence from the Cocaine Cowboys was unlike anything most Americans could imagine. We were in the middle of a war.” The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast promoted across their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. The Cocaine Cowboys Era After joining the DEA following his service as a Virginia Beach police officer, Feistl was assigned to Miami, Florida, ground zero for the cocaine trade in the late 1970s and 1980s. The era was defined by the so-called “Cocaine Cowboys,” traffickers who turned Miami into the epicenter of cocaine smuggling and drug-related violence. Look for supporting stories about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin . One incident still stands as a symbol of the times. On July 11, 1979, a brazen daytime shootout erupted inside a liquor store at Dadeland Mall. Armed with submachine guns, assailants gunned down rivals in what police described as a “Wild West-style” shootout. Their escape vehicle, later found abandoned, was stocked with weapons and bulletproof vests, earning the nickname “war wagon.” “Miami was the Wild West,” Feistl explains. “Every arrest could turn into a gunfight. That’s the environment we lived in daily.” From the Drug Violence of Miami to Colombia: His DEA Journey to the Cali Cartel. Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. From Miami to Colombia While in Miami, Feistl’s investigations often led back to Colombian suppliers. By the early 1990s, his path took him directly to Colombia itself. Arriving just after Pablo Escobar’s death, Feistl shifted focus to the emerging powerhouse of the drug world: the Cali Cartel. “The Cali Cartel was unlike Escobar’s Medellín Cartel,” Feistl said. “They operated with a corporate structure, independent cells reporting to managers. It made them more sophisticated and harder to infiltrate.” At the height of its reign between 1993 and 1995, the Cali Cartel controlled more than 80% of the global cocaine market, raking in billions annually. Robert Bonner, former DEA Administrator, once called them “the most powerful criminal organization in the world. No drug organization rivals them today or perhaps any time in history.” The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast episode is available for free on their website , Apple Podcasts , Spotify and most major podcast platforms. Taking Down the Cali Cartel Partnering with fellow DEA agent David Mitchell, Feistl joined a special task force charged with dismantling the cartel. Together, they spent years tracking the cartel’s leaders, an effort that culminated in the arrest of the Cali “Godfathers” and the collapse of one of history’s most powerful crime syndicates. “Our mission was clear,” Feistl says. “We had to take them down. It wasn’t easy, but the Cali Cartel was too big, and too dangerous to continue unchecked.” From the Drug Violence of Miami to Colombia. His success earned him some of the DEA’s highest honors, including the Administrator’s Award of Honor and multiple Distinguished Service medals from the Colombian government. The full...

The Pressure of Police Work: From Cameras to Traps, Stress on Officers is Mounting. Police work has always carried unique challenges, but today’s officers face pressures that go far beyond the streets. From cell phone cameras and so-called First Amendment Auditors setting traps, to command staff micromanagement and public confrontations, the stress can be overwhelming, sometimes career-ending. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast promoted across their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. Retired Riverside, Illinois Police Chief Tom Weitzel is our guest on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast, available for free on their website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and most podcast platforms. “Policing has become like living in a fish tank,” said Tom Weitzel, retired Chief of the Riverside, Illinois Police Department. “You’re under observation 24/7, from the public, from the media, even from your own bosses.” Look for supporting stories about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin . Weitzel, who served decades in law enforcement and now shares his experiences through the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast available for free on their website, in addition to Apple, Spotify, and many major podcast platforms. Also on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and more, said that while he had support from elected officials, not every chief or officer has that backing. Even with it, the stress remained constant. The Pressure of Police Work: From Cameras to Traps, Stress on Officers is Mounting. The Rise of First Amendment Auditors One modern source of stress is the growing number of First Amendment Auditors. These individuals record in public spaces, often focusing on police, to test how well constitutional rights are respected. While some see this as citizen journalism, others intentionally provoke officers, hoping to capture a misstep on video that can later be uploaded for views and income. Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. “They set traps for police,” Weitzel explained. “If you react, you give them the content they’re looking for. My advice to officers: remain calm. Don’t take the bait.” These auditors often enter places like post offices, courthouses, or even police stations with cameras rolling. Their stated goal is to document potential constitutional violations. But for officers, the experience can feel less like accountability and more like harassment. The Pressure of Police Work: From Cameras to Traps. More Than Cameras Auditors aren’t the only stressors. Officers face constant scrutiny from suspects, citizens, and even their own command staff. “You hear it all, ‘Do you know who I am?’ or ‘I pay your salary,’” Weitzel said. “Add in the micromanaging from some bosses, shift work, the risk of violence, and the media’s misrepresentation of facts, and it’s no wonder so many officers struggle with stress.” The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast episode is available for free on their website , Apple Podcasts , Spotify and most major podcast platforms. This stress doesn’t stop at the badge. Weitzel shared how his own children, who also became police officers, faced the same pressures. “It’s not just the officer who feels it, it’s their families too.” The Privacy Dilemma Another issue is the erosion of privacy. Between body cameras, dash cams, and surveillance technology, many officers feel there’s little space left for private conversations, performance reviews, or even mental health support. “Officers need safe spaces, whether it’s during critical incident stress debriefings or when seeking help from employee assistance programs,” Weitzel said. “Without that, the stigma around mental health in policing just gets worse.”The Pressure of Police Work: From Cameras to Traps. The full podcast episode is...

Did This Ex-Police Officer Get a Fair Trial? Was he guilty of 2nd degree murder? The case of former Rocky Ford Police Officer James Ashby continues to raise questions. You can listen and decide for yourself. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast promoted across their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. A Fatal Encounter in Colorado. James is the guest on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast, available for free on their website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and most podcast platforms. In October 2014, Ashby shot and killed a 27-year-old inside his home while on duty. Prosecutors said Ashby followed the young man after a confrontation on the street and ultimately fired the fatal shot in front of his mother. Look for supporting stories about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin . Did This Ex-Police Officer Get a Fair Trial? Was he guilty of 2nd degree murder? In 2016, a jury convicted Ashby of second-degree murder, making him the first Colorado officer in decades to be found guilty of murder for an on-duty shooting. He was sentenced to 16 years in prison. Ashby’s Side of the Story Speaking recently on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other major platforms, Ashby described the trial as deeply flawed. “I was bewildered by the continued prosecution,” Ashby said. “There were problems with the investigation, and I couldn’t believe it when the jury came back with a guilty verdict.” Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. Did This Ex-Police Officer Get a Fair Trial? He spent more than eight years behind bars before being transferred to a halfway house. Ashby now says his prison experience was nothing like what the public sees from Hollywood. “So much of what people think they know about prison comes from TV and legacy media,” he explained. “The reality is far different.” Legal Challenges and Appeals Ashby has not stopped fighting his conviction. His defense has filed multiple appeals, most recently a 35C motion claiming ineffective assistance of counsel, prosecutorial misconduct, and lack of access to critical police reports. Despite these claims, the court denied relief, leaving his 16-year sentence in place. “It’s frustrating,” Ashby said. “We know there were serious issues in the trial, but the system doesn’t want to admit mistakes.” The trial judge himself called it “the most difficult case he’s had and probably will ever have.” Did This Ex-Police Officer Get a Fair Trial? Was he guilty of 2nd degree murder? Rare Conviction for a Police Officer The rarity of Ashby’s conviction cannot be overstated. In the United States, it is unusual for law enforcement officers to be prosecuted and convicted of murder in the line of duty. Jurors deliberated for 11 hours before finding him guilty. Though Ashby originally faced up to 48 years in prison, he received a 16-year sentence. Meanwhile, the young man's family won a $1.3 million settlement against the City of Rocky Ford, alleging that city officials acted irresponsibly in hiring Ashby. A Mission to Clear His Name Now, Ashby is speaking out through social platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, sharing his story under the page Prisoner of War on Police. Did This Ex-Police Officer Get a Fair Trial? “I don’t want this to happen to anyone else,” he said. “I’m determined to clear my name and to shed light on what went wrong in my case.” Final Thoughts The story of James Ashby remains divisive. Supporters believe he was unfairly targeted and prosecuted, while critics argue that justice was delivered for what they called a bad police shooting. Listeners can hear Ashby’s full account on the Law Enforcement Talk Podcast, streaming on Apple, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. So the question...

A Life of Meaning After a Bad Start in Chicago. Growing up in the South Side of Chicago is no easy path, and for Samia Young, the early chapters of her life were filled with violence, instability, and heartbreak. Born into a family plagued by substance abuse and domestic violence, she witnessed things no child ever should. Samia is the guest on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast, available for free on their website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and most podcast platforms. “I had what many would describe as a tumultuous, abusive, and traumatic childhood,” Samia recalls. “There were days I truly didn’t know if I’d make it out alive.” The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast promoted across their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. Her neighborhood was one of many that frequently made the news, as Chicago’s South Side has long carried a reputation for crime, poverty, and struggle. For Samia, the dysfunction inside her home only magnified the challenges outside of it. “I would be lying if I told you that I always knew that I would make it out. That I never felt like throwing in the towel,” she admits. Look for supporting stories about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin . Life on the South Side To understand Samia’s story, it helps to know the environment she grew up in. The South Side of Chicago is one of the city’s three major sections and is geographically the largest. Rich with cultural history, diverse neighborhoods, and deep community ties, it is also an area marked by stark contrasts, where middle-class and affluent families live only blocks away from neighborhoods struggling with poverty and crime. Areas like Hyde Park, home to the University of Chicago, and Kenwood or Beverly are often considered desirable places to live. But other parts of the South Side, such as Englewood and Grand Crossing, have been hit hard by systemic issues, unemployment, and gang violence. These were the realities shaping Samia’s childhood. A Life of Meaning After a Bad Start in Chicago. Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. “Growing up there, you learn to survive more than you learn to live,” she reflects. Hearing the Gospel for the First Time Amidst the turmoil, a flicker of light appeared when Samia was 14 years old. During one of the darkest seasons of her youth, she first heard the message of Jesus Christ. “The Gospel offered me a glimpse of hope,” she shares. “It was something that felt so far removed from my life, yet it stirred something deep inside me.” The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast episode is available for free on their website , Apple Podcasts , Spotify and most major podcast platforms. That spark, however, was not enough to erase the wounds of her childhood. As she transitioned into her teenage years and early adulthood, the pain she carried pulled her into cycles of instability. Poverty, brushes with the criminal justice system, and feelings of being lost became part of her reality. A Life of Meaning After a Bad Start in Chicago. “The wounds from my childhood made it difficult for me to truly know my identity and build the life I wanted,” Samia explains. A Turning Point at 24 Everything began to change at 24, when Samia had what she describes as a moment of clarity. Instead of letting her past dictate her future, she made a decision: to rebuild her life from the ground up. “It wasn’t some overnight transformation,” she admits. “It was slow, painful, and full of setbacks. But it was also the most important decision I ever made.” The full podcast episode is streaming now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and across Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Through perseverance, faith, and a relentless commitment to change, Samia began reshaping her path. She pursued education, steadied her personal...

Could This Be the Miracle Breakthrough for PTSD? A Doctor’s Personal Story and Treatment. When it comes to trauma and PTSD, countless stories of suffering and survival fill the News, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and podcasts on Apple and Spotify. But one story stands out, not just because of the personal tragedy behind it, but because of the revolutionary hope it brings. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast promoted across their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. Dr. Eugene Lipov, a board-certified anesthesiologist and trauma expert, is changing the way the world understands PTSD, or as he prefers to call it, PTSI (Post-Traumatic Stress Injury). His work introduces a treatment that some have called nothing short of a miracle breakthrough. He is the guest on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast, available for free on their website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and most podcast platforms. A Life Marked by Trauma Dr. Lipov’s journey began in tragedy. During medical training, while diving in Mexico, he was struck by a boat and nearly bled to death after suffering devastating propeller injuries. “I had an out-of-body experience when I was close to death,” he recalled. That moment of hovering between life and death left a permanent mark. Look for supporting stories about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin . Just a year later, his mother died by suicide. That profound loss shook his family and became another defining wound. “The impact of that was life-altering,” Dr. Lipov has shared. It was through these events and a growing awareness of his own PTSD that he began to search for new answers. Could This Be the Miracle Breakthrough for PTSD? A Doctor’s Personal Story and Treatment. From Personal Loss to Medical Innovation Rather than simply endure his trauma, Dr. Lipov turned it into a driving force for discovery. He pioneered the use of the Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB), a simple nerve block called “The God Shot.” Unlike conventional therapies that often focus on managing symptoms, this treatment aims to reset the brain’s overactive fight-or-flight response instantly. Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. “Advanced brain scans show trauma leaves physical scars on the brain,” Dr. Lipov explains. “If it’s a biological injury, it means it can heal.” The procedure has already transformed lives, from Navy SEALs and first responders to survivors of abuse and burnout. Patients report an almost immediate sense of calm, describing it as a return to themselves after years of chaos. Could This Be the Miracle Breakthrough for PTSD? The Book That Could Change Everything In his upcoming book, The God Shot: Healing Trauma’s Legacy, co-authored with Lauren Ungeldi and set for release on February 17, 2026, Dr. Lipov dismantles the myths surrounding trauma. Instead of viewing PTSD as a mental weakness, he presents it as a treatable injury with a biology-based solution. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast episode is available for free on their website , Apple Podcasts , Spotify and most major podcast platforms. “The era of managing trauma is over,” he writes. “The age of hope and healing has begun.” The book introduces readers to the science, the stories, and the solution, offering not just coping strategies, but the possibility of full recovery. Beyond the Page: Expanding the Movement Dr. Lipov has also authored The Invisible Machine and Exit Strategy for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. Both works further highlight how SGB has the potential to revolutionize trauma care. These books blend medical insights with deeply personal narratives, ensuring that both professionals and trauma survivors can connect with the material. Could This Be the Miracle Breakthrough for PTSD? A Doctor’s Personal Story and...

Police and Firefighters, Trauma and Recovery. From Demons to Angels: A Georgia First Responder’s Journey Through Trauma, PTSD, and Recovery. Dennis Pishock served his community in Georgia with dedication and courage, first as a firefighter, then as a police officer. His career placed him on the front lines of some of the most traumatic moments imaginable, from heartbreaking drownings to violent crime scenes. He is the guest on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast, available for free on their website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and most podcast platforms. Through it all, he carried the weight of the experiences, often silently, until he realized that recovery was possible and necessary. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast promoted across their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. “After thousands of traumatic calls and seeing friends and families fall apart, I knew I had to start telling my story,” Pishock shared. “I want others to know that recovery is possible, even when you’re still serving on the front lines.” Look for supporting stories about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin . The Traumas Behind the Badge One of the defining moments of Pishock’s career came while serving as a firefighter in the Atlanta suburbs. His swift water rescue team was called to a river where an 8-year-old girl had gone missing while tubing. The girl’s body was eventually discovered trapped beneath a submerged tree. “Even though she was right there, just below the surface, we couldn’t get to her because of the current,” Pishock recalled. “That moment stayed with me for years.” Police and Firefighters, Trauma and Recovery. Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. The trauma intensified when he learned that one of his teammates, who had a young daughter also tubing that day, initially feared the girl was his own child. Thankfully, it wasn’t, but the tragedy was no less devastating. These experiences compounded with countless other traumatic calls. Pishock thought he had processed them, but the emotional toll followed him when he transitioned from firefighting to policing. Police and Firefighters: Different Uniforms, Same Demons The shift from fire service to law enforcement is unusual, but for Pishock, it was a continuation of his call to serve. However, as a police officer in Georgia, he faced even more trauma, shootings, violent incidents, and deaths that left invisible scars. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast episode is available for free on their website , Apple Podcasts , Spotify and most major podcast platforms. “My family life began to fall apart,” he admitted. “I didn’t recognize how much the job had changed me until I went to Peer Support Training. That’s when I finally realized, I needed help.” The wake-up call came after learning about the suicides of several close friends, all fellow first responders. It was a turning point that pushed him toward recovery. Police and Firefighters, Trauma and Recovery. Facing Demons, Finding Angels In his book Demons & Angels, Pishock documents his most personal battles and the lessons he has learned along the way. The book, available across social platforms like Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and discussed on podcasts across Apple and Spotify, is not just about his own survival, it’s a guide for others. “This book isn’t just for me,” Pishock explained. “It’s for every police officer, firefighter, and military member who has spent sleepless nights wrestling with trauma. It’s for anyone who has chosen to serve America and knows the cost that comes with it.” The full podcast episode is streaming now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and across Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. He describes the brotherhood shared among those who wear the badge or the uniform,...

Police Shooting Myths Shattered: From His Own Story. Special Episode. When it comes to policing in America, myths often dominate the public conversation. Many believe law enforcement officers are “trigger happy,” quick to fire their weapons at the first sign of danger. Others assume that trauma only takes its toll after decades in uniform. But as former Roswell, Georgia police officer John Saporsky explains, both assumptions couldn’t be further from the truth. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast promoted across their Facebook , Instagram , LinkedIn , Medium and other social media platforms. In a candid conversation shared on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and streaming on Apple and Spotify, Saporsky speaks openly about the Police Shooting Myths Shattered, From His Own Story. His journey highlights the danger, recovery, career, and experience that shaped his life both in and beyond law enforcement. He is the guest on the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast, available for free on their website, on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and most podcast platforms. Early Career and Trauma in Georgia “People think trauma comes late in a career, but mine started early,” Saporsky says. As a young officer with the Roswell Police Department in Georgia, he faced situations that most officers never experience in their entire careers. From a near-death experience in a traffic accident involving a stolen police car to brake failure in a high-speed pursuit, Saporsky’s early days in uniform were filled with life-threatening moments. Look for supporting stories about this and much more from Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast in platforms like Medium , Blogspot and Linkedin . He recalls a terrifying incident with brake fade, a dangerous reduction in braking ability caused by overheating. “When the brakes failed, it could have been fatal. Those are the moments the public never sees,” he explains. Police Shooting Myths Shattered: From His Own Story. Special Episode. And then there were the shootings. Saporsky was directly involved in critical incidents that tested his judgment and courage. Research from the National Police Foundation underscores just how rare such experiences are. In a study of 1,006 police shootings across 47 departments, four out of five officers had never fired their weapons in the line of duty before. Saporsky’s encounters placed him in the small percentage who had. Available for free on their website and streaming on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other podcast platforms. Shattering Police Shooting Myths Saporsky emphasizes that officers are not eager to use deadly force. “Most of us hope we’ll never have to fire our weapon,” he says. “When it does happen, it changes you forever.” By sharing his story, he aims to dismantle the stereotype that police officers are reckless or insensitive in dangerous situations. Instead, he highlights the human side of danger and recovery—the side the public rarely hears about in the evening news or viral social media debates. Life After Policing After years of service, Saporsky decided to transition out of law enforcement. But stepping away from the badge wasn’t simple. “Leaving the profession can feel like losing your identity,” he reflects. Police Shooting Myths Shattered: From His Own Story. The Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast episode is available for free on their website , Apple Podcasts , Spotify and most major podcast platforms. That personal struggle led him to create Law Enforcement Connect LLC in 2021, a platform designed to help officers transition into civilian life and new careers. “Like military veterans, law enforcement professionals face unique challenges. They need guidance, resources, and a community that understands,” Saporsky says. Through interviews with veterans, business leaders, psychologists, and researchers, Saporsky developed a framework for career transition that goes beyond simple job searches. His mission is to...