The Brighter Side of Blue Podcast

We wrapped up our final series recap with Alex Wurman, diving into his work on the score and how he approached underscoring the emotional and dramatic layers of the series. Alex shares his perspective on the full arc of the story, what stood out to him creatively, and how the music helped shape the tone throughout. We also get into his journey in Hollywood, what continues to inspire his passion for music, and how his career has evolved over time. It’s a thoughtful, behind-the-scenes conversation that brings a whole new dimension to the series. #TheBrighterSideOfBlue #PolicePodcast #LawEnforcement #TrueCrime #BehindTheBadge #PoliceStories #DTFStLouis #Finale #Episode7 #SeriesFinale

(45:03) In our featured interview on the The Brighter Side of Blue, we sit down with St. Louis Post Dispatch crime reporter Katie Kull to break down a disturbing murder-for-hire case in St. Louis… the trial of Michael Grady.What starts as financial trouble quickly turns into a calculated plan involving a secret life insurance policy, a targeted victim, and a killing that took place in 2011… but wouldn’t fully come to light until years later.Katie walks us through the courtroom details, including the shocking phone call used to obtain the insurance policy, the timeline leading up to the murder of Charles Harris, and how investigators ultimately pieced the case together through financial records, phone data, and testimony.We also dive into Grady’s background… a paralegal who seemed to be connected to major players in the St. Louis criminal world… and how this case intersected with other investigations over the years.This is a story about greed, manipulation, and how even years-old cases can come back around when the right evidence surfaces.Communities that support law enforcement are safer places to live.#TheBrighterSideOfBlue #PolicePodcast #LawEnforcement #TrueCrime #BehindTheBadge #PoliceStories #StLouisCrime #MurderForHire

The finale is here… and the DTF St. Louis mystery finally comes full circle. In this Episode 7 wrap-up, Danny, Tommy, Maggie, and Producer John break down the shocking conclusion, revisit their theories, and discuss what they got right… and what completely caught them off guard. From the truth behind Floyd’s death to the motivations, clues, and red herrings scattered throughout the series, the crew walks through how it all unfolded. They also reflect on the storytelling, the twists, and what made DTF St. Louis such a compelling ride from start to finish… along with a few laughs and final thoughts now that the mystery has been solved. Did the ending live up to the hype? Were the clues there all along? And what surprised you the most? #TheBrighterSideOfBlue #PolicePodcast #LawEnforcement #TrueCrime #BehindTheBadge #PoliceStories #DTFStLouis #Finale #Episode7 #SeriesFinale

Featured Inerview (27:30) ...Former police officers turned attorneys Brian Millikan and Mike Nolan join us for a fascinating conversation about life after policing… and what happens when officers find themselves under investigation. Both guests started their careers on the streets of St. Louis before transitioning into law. Brian Millikan now represents police officers facing internal affairs investigations, criminal charges, and civil lawsuits… while Mike Nolan practices commercial litigation at Husch Blackwell, bringing a unique perspective from both sides of law enforcement and the legal system. We discuss what officers face during investigations, the impact of media narratives, the role of body cameras, and the turbulent years when multiple officers were charged but ultimately cleared. This episode provides an inside look at Internal Affairs investigations, Brady lists, and the real-world consequences officers face when accusations are made… even when they’re eventually cleared. If you've ever wondered what really happens when officers get investigated… this is a must-listen episode. Before the featured interview, the crew covers a wide range of topics including: • A wild story about a “mad woman” that led to a major heroin arrest • The history of the Egan’s Rats and early St. Louis organized crime • A suspicious sailing death in the Bahamas • Fast food arguments that turned deadly • Military heroism and special forces rescue operations • And plenty of classic Brighter Side banter #TheBrighterSideOfBlue #PolicePodcast #LawEnforcement #TrueCrime #BehindTheBadge #PoliceStories #InternalAffairs #PoliceLawyers

Episode 6 of the DTF St. Louis Breakdown brings more twists, theories, and unanswered questions as the crew at The Brighter Side of Blue digs deeper into what may have happened to Floyd. Danny, Tommy, Maggie, and Producer John break down the uncomfortable opening scenes, Clark’s interrogation, the mysterious “Tiger Tiger” connection, and the strange clues surrounding the bike, Modern Love, and the Denny’s plan. As the finale approaches, the theories start to take shape. Is this setting up a suicide… or are we being misled again? Could Richard be more involved than anyone thought? And what exactly is the significance of the poetic clues surrounding “Tiger Tiger”? With only one episode left, the crew debates suspects, motivations, and whether the truth will tie together everything we've seen so far. One thing is certain… the mystery of DTF St. Louis is far from solved. #TheBrighterSideOfBlue #PolicePodcast #LawEnforcement #TrueCrime #BehindTheBadge #PoliceStories #DTFStLouis #EpisodeBreakdown

Featured Interview (28:00) Retired DEA Supervisor Tim Brunholz joins The Brighter Side of Blue to share stories from a remarkable career that included locking up a mayor, a judge, and a sheriff.From undercover buys and violent encounters to major corruption investigations, Tim walks us through the cases that defined his career. He also shares how the St. Louis airport interdiction program was built from the ground up… leading to major seizures, high profile arrests, and millions taken off the streets.Tim also takes us back to his early days… growing up in Kansas, serving in Air Force intelligence during the Cold War, and eventually joining the Bureau of Narcotics and Dangerous Drugs… the precursor to the DEA.This episode is packed with incredible stories, investigative insight, and behind the scenes moments from one of the most active eras in federal narcotics enforcement.Communities that support law enforcement are safer places to live.#TheBrighterSideOfBlue #PolicePodcast #LawEnforcement #TrueCrime #BehindTheBadge #PoliceStories #DEA #DrugInterdiction

Episode 5 of DTF St. Louis takes a unique turn as the crew at The Brighter Side of Blue is joined by a special guest… the composer of the series, Alex Wurman. Danny, Tommy, Maggie, and Producer John break down the latest twists, theories, and suspects... while trying to read between the lines with someone who helped shape the tone and emotion of the show itself. From new clues and shifting suspicions to the role music plays in building tension, the conversation brings a fresh perspective to Episode 5. After the breakdown, the crew sits down with Alex to discuss his background, his work on DTF St. Louis, and how the sound of the show helps drive the mystery forward. #TheBrighterSideOfBlue #PolicePodcast #LawEnforcement #TrueCrime #BehindTheBadge #PoliceStories #DTFStLouis #EpisodeBreakdown

Before the featured interview, the crew kicks things off from Colombo’s Café and Tavern in Dogtown with their usual mix of humor and current events. This episode includes a wild breakdown of the Afroman vs. Adams County Sheriff’s Office situation, a discussion on juvenile crime and policing strategies, updates on the new Brighter Side of Blue studio, and more of the banter listeners have come to expect before diving into this week’s featured story;FEATURED INTERVIEW (29:58) What happens when someone you know… someone you trusted… becomes the suspect in a murder investigation?Retired St. Louis homicide detective Tom Carroll joins The Brighter Side of Blue to break down one of the most shocking cases connected to the St. Louis law enforcement community. The Mike Reed case.Mike Reed was not just another suspect. He worked around the St. Louis Police Academy as a college liaison, helping officers further their education. He built friendships throughout the department, played sports with officers, and became someone many trusted.Then one day… he did not show up.Rumors quickly spread. Mike Reed had been arrested for murder.Detective Tom Carroll walks us through the investigation that began with a body found in an alley on Waterman… and led to a shocking discovery when Carroll knocked on a nearby door and came face to face with someone he recognized. Mike Reed.The case unfolded into a disturbing story involving a double life, gambling, prostitution, and a violent confrontation that ended in murder. Reed eventually pled guilty to second degree murder and was sentenced to 25 years in prison.This is a story about instincts, betrayal, and a case that shook the St. Louis law enforcement community.Communities that support law enforcement are safer places to live.#TheBrighterSideOfBlue #PolicePodcast #LawEnforcement #TrueCrime #BehindTheBadge #PoliceStories #StLouisCrime #HomicideDetective

Episode 4 of DTF St. Louis throws the entire investigation into chaos… and the crew at The Brighter Side of Blue is trying to make sense of it all. Danny, Tommy, Maggie, and Producer John break down the biggest twists in Episode 4 ... from Clark’s intense police interview and the mystery of the bike, to Carol’s manipulation, Floyd’s financial troubles, and the strange appearance of “Modern Love.” Theories are flying in every direction. Is Carol the mastermind? Is Clark hiding something? Could the real killer still be someone we haven’t even met yet? One thing is certain… this episode changes a lot of what we thought we knew. Jump into the conversation, share your theories in the comments, and join us each week as we break down the mystery of DTF St. Louis. #TheBrighterSideOfBlue #PolicePodcast #LawEnforcement #TrueCrime #BehindTheBadge #PoliceStories #DTFStLouis #EpisodeBreakdown

In this episode, we’re joined by true legends of the Law Enforcement Torch Run and Special Olympics Missouri… men who have dedicated years, some nearly three decades each...to raising money, building relationships, and changing lives. Together, this group represents over 200 years of combined service to this mission. From the early days of the Torch Run in Missouri—when fundraising was just getting started—to helping grow it into a multi-million dollar, year-round movement, these guys share how it all came together… the grind, the laughs, the road trips, and the moments that made it all worth it. But what stands out most isn’t the money raised… it’s the relationships built. You’ll hear powerful stories about: -The first time officers put a medal around an athlete’s neck… and how it changes you forever -The deep bonds formed between law enforcement and Special Olympics athletes -How this program gives athletes opportunities, confidence, and a true sense of belonging -The moment that hooked each of them for life -And why they’ve never walked away from it Brock Guseman, a Special Olympics athlete with over 200 medals, reminds us exactly why this mission exists… and why it continues to grow. His perspective—and his appreciation for law enforcement—says more than anything else ever could. From funny stories about early fundraisers and road trips… to emotional moments that define the entire mission… this conversation shows what the Law Enforcement Torch Run is really about. In Missouri alone, law enforcement has raised over $43 million for Special Olympics… and worldwide, the movement has surpassed $1 billion. This is what it looks like when law enforcement leads with heart. Communities that support law enforcement are safer places to live✌️💙.

In this episode, Raphael Jackson calls into The Brighter Side of Blue from prison and speaks, Detectives Stone and Carroll, the same detectives who took his original confession years ago, were on set when Rafael calls in. What starts like a strange family reunion turns into a raw, uncomfortable, and at times surreal conversation about his viral confession, prison life, time spent in the hole, remorse, accountability, and whether he truly believes he has changed. He also reacts to the attention his confession has received and agrees to come back to answer listener questions.#TheBrighterSideOfBlue #PolicePodcast #LawEnforcement #TrueCrime #BehindTheBadge #PoliceStories #RaphaelJackson #CallsFromPrison

Episode 3 of DTF St. Louis throws the entire investigation into chaos… and the crew at The Brighter Side of Blue is trying to make sense of it all. Danny, Tommy, Maggie, and Producer John break down the biggest twists in Episode 3 — from Clark’s intense police interview and the mystery of the bike, to Carol’s manipulation, Floyd’s financial troubles, and the strange appearance of “Modern Love.” Theories are flying in every direction. Is Carol the mastermind? Is Clark hiding something? Could the real killer still be someone we haven’t even met yet? One thing is certain… this episode changes a lot of what we thought we knew. Jump into the conversation, share your theories in the comments, and join us each week as we break down the mystery of DTF St. Louis. Hashtags (copy/paste friendly): #TheBrighterSideOfBlue #PolicePodcast #LawEnforcement #TrueCrime #BehindTheBadge #PoliceStories #DTFStLouis #EpisodeBreakdown

Retired SLMPD Sgt. Steve Sorocko joins The Brighter Side of Blue to break down one of the darkest and most violent chapters in St. Louis labor history ... the 1970s violence surrounding Pipefitters Local 562. From the unsolved murder of union boss Eddie Steska to the bombings of Lou Shoulders, Tommy Callanan, Harriet Callanan, and others, Sorocko walks us through the people, the power struggles, the organized crime connections, and the fear that kept so many mouths shut. It’s a fascinating look at a turbulent era in St. Louis history from one of the city’s legendary Bomb & Arson investigators.

Episode 2 of DTF St. Louis had the crew at Colombo’s buzzing. From the “Bang Master” to the strange lies, suspicious timelines, and a growing list of suspects… Danny, Tommy, Maggie, and Producer John break down everything they caught in the latest episode. Is Clark a pawn? Is Carol manipulating everyone? Or is the real killer someone we haven’t even met yet? The theories are starting to fly. #TheBrighterSideOfBlue #PolicePodcast #LawEnforcement #TrueCrime #BehindTheBadge #PoliceStories #DTFStLouis #EpisodeBreakdown

In our featured interview, we sit down with retired SLMPD Lt. Col. Ray Lauer and his sons, retired Lt. Mike Lauer and retired Lt. Paul Lauer, to talk about one of the most remarkable law-enforcement legacies in St. Louis history. With roughly 170 years of combined service in one immediate family, the Lauer name represents generations of dedication to the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department. Ray, Mike, and Paul share stories from their careers, the legendary training officers who shaped them, and the unique experience of carrying on a family legacy in policing. From academy days and major cases to traffic-fatality investigations, leadership roles, and the prestigious FBI National Academy, the conversation spans decades of policing in St. Louis and what it means when the next generation continues the tradition. But before we get to the Lauer interview, the show opens the way it usually does with Danny, Tommy, JJ and Producer John trading stories and banter from around the job. The crew talks about night shift life, memorable police hiring interviews (including a recruit who showed up for his interview in a tank top and chewing tobacco), and the incredible story of Japanese Lt. Hiroo Onoda, the WWII soldier who spent 29 years in the jungle believing the war was still going on. As always, the opening conversation mixes humor, history, and the kind of cop-shop storytelling listeners have come to expect before the main interview begins. If you want to jump straight to the Lauer interview, check the timestamp in the description below. The Brighter Side of Blue—St. Louis stories from the men and women who wear the badge, recorded at Colombo’s Café in Dogtown. Full interview is on YouTube and all major podcast platforms. If you dig it, please like, comment, and share so more St. Louis folks see it. #TheBrighterSideOfBlue #PolicePodcast #LawEnforcement #TrueCrime #BehindTheBadge #PoliceStories #StLouisPolice #SLMPD

Episode 1 of DTF St. Louis is in the books…so we’re doing what we do best: breaking it down from a law enforcement lens, with plenty of laughs along the way. Maggie joins Danny and Tommy at Colombo’s Café in Dogtown to set the table on all the key characters, the crime scene, and the big clues HBO clearly wants us to notice…from the “sunshine” theme, to the weird bike, to cornhole, blurred-out family shots, and a pool house death that feels way too staged to be simple. We also talk realism vs Hollywood when it comes to probable cause, interrogation choices, jurisdiction squabbles, and whether an on-air arrest would ever really go down like that. Then we wrap with early theories…because somebody’s lying, somebody’s manipulating, and somethings up with the second bike. #DTFStLouis #DTFStLouisHBO #HBOMiniseries #TrueCrimeBreakdown #CrimeSeries #StLouis #TheBrighterSideOfBlue

(31:08) In our featured interview, Maggie Hagen breaks down real cases where dating, online connections, and hidden relationships spiraled into shocking violence. From dating apps lowering barriers to risky behavior…to double lives, secret affairs, and friendships that turned into betrayal…we examine how seemingly normal situations escalated into murder.With Maggie bringing a younger perspective on modern dating culture and the crew looking at it through a law-enforcement lens, this conversation dives into how technology, secrecy, and human behavior collide in dangerous ways.We open the episode from Colombo’s in Dogtown with some classic TBSOB chaos…Ricky Ray’s “ham and beans” gets labeled a peasant dish, Lent season and fish fry talk makes an appearance, and we set the table for the week’s content. Then we pivot into real topics…police being targeted during crowd incidents, officer safety, and two Christian County line-of-duty deaths. Sprinkle in sponsor love, a Colin Ledbetter update, and an all-time radio-station “live stream mistake” story…and then it’s on to Maggie.Communities that support law enforcement are safer places to live.#TheBrighterSideOfBlue #PolicePodcast #LawEnforcement #TrueCrime #BehindTheBadge #PoliceStories #DatingApps #DoubleLife #DTFStLouis

Retired SLMPD Bomb & Arson legend Det. Sgt. Steve Sorocko and retired FBI Bomb Technician Frank Brostrom join us for a deep dive into the story of Richard Beck and the era of bombings that once gripped St. Louis.⏱️ Featured Interview Starts (37:14)Inside the Richard Beck investigation:• How the case came to the show through Frank Brostrom• Steve Sorocko’s Bomb & Arson background• First contact with Richard Beck• Confessions to 1960s–70s bombings• Corroborating investigative work• St. Louis bombing era context• Mob connections• Approached about MLK plot involvement• Beck’s psychology• Why some consider him highly prolific• Firsthand investigator insightOpening of the show-• Episode intro and case setup• Highway crash story + Shrewsbury PD shoutout• Colin Ledbetter update• Mark O’Brien update• Nancy Guthrie case discussion• Olympics banter• DTF St. Louis preview• Iwo Jima flag-this day in history• Corvette STL trivia (Producer John)• Law enforcement integrity “Zen”• Mardi Gras officer discussion• Transition to interviewCommunities that support law enforcement are safer places to live.The Brighter Side of Blue… St. Louis stories from the men and women who wear the badge. Full interview is on YouTube and all major podcast platforms. If you dig it, please like, comment, and share so more folks see it.#TheBrighterSideOfBlue #PolicePodcast #LawEnforcement #TrueCrime #BehindTheBadge #PoliceStories #StLouis #MobHistory

New Haven Police Chief Chris Neace joins us to walk through the Mason Griffith case—from the night of March 12, 2023 at the Casey’s in Hermann, to the evidence presented in court, the first-degree murder conviction, and the jury’s death penalty recommendation. Chief Neace attended every day of the trial and shares what hit him hardest: details that never made the news, the body-cam footage, the 15-hour standoff, and the powerful victim impact moments—especially hearing from Officer Adam Sullentrup, who survived but will never be the same. Then, after the serious conversation, we hit the classic TBSOB bar-banter: reacting to the interview, talking Neace’s social media approach, a few Olympics rabbit holes, a St. Louis hockey legacy, a feel-good perseverance story, and a quick history lesson on the origins of 911—before wrapping with shoutouts and some laughs. Communities that support law enforcement are safer places to live.

In the episode, we sit down with Kyle Reyes, the owner of Law Enforcement Today and Blue Lives Matter — two of the largest pro-law-enforcement platforms in the country. Kyle shared how and why he got into supporting law enforcement, along with powerful stories from traveling around the country, meeting officers, departments, and families, and seeing firsthand what the men and women behind the badge are dealing with every day. We talked media narratives, morale, and the moments along the way that reinforced his mission to tell real police stories that often go unheard. There are some meaningful — and at times eye-opening — stories in this one. And of course, once the interview wrapped up, the bar-banter kicked in. We also covered: • Breaking down the interview with Kyle • JJ’s Zen • The Tale of Two Dicks • The Miracle on Ice documentary • The Hoodlum Priest — the story of Fr. Charles Dismas Clark The full episode is live now on YouTube and all major podcast platforms. If you dig it, please like, comment, and share so more St. Louis folks see it. Communities that support law enforcement are safer places to live. #TheBrighterSideOfBlue #PolicePodcast #LawEnforcement #TrueCrime #BehindTheBadge #PoliceStories