Some healing doesn’t happen in silence —and some healing doesn’t happen through words at all. In this episode of 8158: Stories of Sacrifice, we’re joined by Horses4Heroes, a nonprofit creating powerful spaces for healing through equine-assisted programs designed for first responders, veterans, and the children of those who serve. Horses have an incredible ability to sense emotion, build trust, and meet people exactly where they are — especially those who’ve spent their lives carrying the weight of service, trauma, and sacrifice. In this conversation, we talk about:• How Horses4Heroes was founded and why their mission matters• The unique role horses play in trauma recovery and emotional regulation• Why asking for help can feel harder than the job itself• The impact these programs have on families and children• How community support keeps this mission alive This episode is a reminder that healing doesn’t have to look traditional to be transformational — and that no one who serves should ever have to walk their journey alone. 💙 You are not broken.💙 You are not weak.💙 And you are not alone. ⸻ 💙 Support the mission: Donate to the William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation:🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com/donate 🌐 Website: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com 🎙 Want to be a guest? Schedule an interview here:🔗 https://8158podcast.com/contact-us 📢 Join our community & get exclusive content: 🔗 http://Patreon.com/8158podcast

Take a moment to slow down with us in this special Christmas bonus episode of the 8158 Podcast: Stories of Sacrifice. 💙🎙️ As we wrap up another powerful year of storytelling, Rico and BriAnn sit down together to reflect on the moments that shaped 2025 — the laughs, the tears, the courage, and the community that keeps this mission alive. This episode is all heart. No guests. No agenda. Just gratitude, reflection, and a heartfelt message to every first responder, veteran, dispatcher, and family who carries the weight of service — especially during the holidays. We’re taking a short two-week break for Christmas and New Year’s, and we’ll be back in January with more real stories of real heroes. Until then, take a breath… recharge… and know that you are never walking this road alone. From our family to yours — Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. 🎄✨ ⸻ 💙 Support the Mission Donate to the William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com/donate 🌐 Visit Our Website 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com 🎙 Want to Be a Guest? Schedule your interview here: 🔗 https://8158podcast.com/contact-us 📢 Join Our Community & Get Exclusive Content Become a Patreon member: 🔗 http://Patreon.com/8158podcast

In Part 3 – “Bridging the Gap: Community, Courage & the Two-In, Two-Out Movement,” Rico and retired firefighter Anthony Crane close out this powerful three-part series with one of the most honest, emotional, and eye-opening conversations yet. This final chapter is all about what happens after the flames are out — the mental load, the community responsibility, and the unspoken expectations first responders carry long after everyone else goes home. In this episode, Anthony and Rico dive into:     •    Why “last call” shouldn’t only mean a funeral bell     •    How communities can actually support their firefighters, officers, EMS, and dispatchers     •    Why first responders don’t want validation — they want help, understanding, and real support     •    The truth about burnout, PTSD, and the weight responders bring home to their families     •    Why civilians learning CPR, AED, and basic first aid could save lives and save responders     •    How Anthony uses photography, advocacy, and the “Two In, Two Out” mindset to push mental health forward     •    The upcoming first responder vendor event and the major project in the works for the William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation This episode is raw, funny, heartbreaking, and hopeful — a reminder that it takes all of us to hold this line together. ⚠️ Content note: This episode includes honest discussion about trauma and suicidal ideation. You’re not alone. Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Thank you for listening to this series and supporting the mission to honor our heroes and strengthen the community around them. ⸻ 💙 Support the mission: Donate to the William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com/donate 🌐 Website: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com 🎙 Want to be a guest? Schedule an interview here: 🔗 https://8158podcast.com/contact-us 📢 Join our community & get exclusive content: 🔗 http://Patreon.com/8158podcast

In Part 2 – “Season 2, Episode 32: Two In, Two Out: Forged by Fire - The Brotherhood Behind the Badge (Part 2 of 3)” Rico and retired firefighter Anthony Crane continue their raw, unfiltered conversation about the realities first responders face long after the call is over. Anthony opens up about the stigma surrounding mental health in the fire service, EMS, law enforcement — and even in prison. He breaks down why asking for help is viewed as “weakness,” and why it’s actually one of the strongest decisions a person can make. Together, Rico and Anthony tackle:     •    Why first responders hide their struggles     •    Why civilians AND responders need to get certified in CPR, AED, and first aid     •    How one dispatcher’s perspective changed the way Anthony sees mental readiness     •    The beginnings of Anthony’s “two in, two out” community movement     •    Personal stories about trauma, therapy, burnout, and learning to stay alive after the job ends     •    A hilarious section involving watermelon wine, Tinkerbell patches, and a surprise “test” that Anthony gives Rico This episode is emotional, chaotic, funny, and deeply human — exactly what real conversations about mental health should be. ⚠️ Content note: This episode includes honest discussion about trauma and suicidal ideation. If you’re struggling, you are not alone. Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Catch Part 3 next, where the guys talk community responsibility, leadership, and why bridging the gap between civilians and first responders matters now more than ever. ⸻ 💙 Support the mission: Donate to the William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com/donate 🌐 Website: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com 🎙 Want to be a guest? Schedule an interview here: 🔗 https://8158podcast.com/contact-us 📢 Join our community & get exclusive content: 🔗 http://Patreon.com/8158podcast

In this special three-part series, Rico sits down with retired volunteer firefighter, photographer, and peer-support warrior Anthony Crane to talk about what really happens after the calls stop. In Part 1 – “Two In, Two Out: Forged by Fire — The Brotherhood Behind the Badge”, Anthony shares:     •    How 25 years in the fire service – mostly as a volunteer – shaped his mental health and identity     •    Why he created his “Two In, Two Out” peer-support push for first responders     •    The moment his doctor told him his body and mind couldn’t take another year on the job     •    How EMDR, life coaching, and a stubborn refusal to quit helped him keep going     •    Why he’d rather shine the spotlight on other firefighters than ever be “validated” himself We also talk about the Thin Line Rock Station, his “Dragon Slayer” car covered in first responder patches, and what it feels like when your entire sense of purpose suddenly changes. ⚠️ Content note: This episode includes honest discussion about trauma, depression, and suicidal ideation. If you or someone you love is struggling, you are not alone. Call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (USA). Stay tuned for Parts 2 and 3, where we dive deeper into stigma, community, and how civilians can become part of the “two in, two out” mindset. ⸻ 💙 Support the mission: Donate to the William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com/donate 🌐 Website: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com 🎙 Want to be a guest? Schedule an interview here: 🔗 https://8158podcast.com/contact-us 📢 Join our community & get exclusive content: 🔗 http://Patreon.com/8158podcast

Take a breather with us this Thanksgiving as we slow down, laugh a little, and reflect on the heart of this mission. In today’s special bonus episode, we’re sharing gratitude, a few behind-the-scenes moments (including BriAnn’s legendary taquito fail 😂🔥), and a sneak peek at what’s coming for the rest of the year. We’re wrapping up 2025 with something BIG — Anthony Crane returns for a powerful 3-part series, diving even deeper into his journey, growth, and lessons learned. After that, we’ll take a short holiday break and be back in January with even more real stories of real heroes. Whether you’re cooking, traveling, or hiding from relatives in the garage — thanks for spending part of your day with us. We’re so grateful for this community. 💙 ⸻ 🔗 Connect With Us 💙 Support the mission: Donate to the William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com/donate 🌐 Website: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com 🎙 Want to be a guest? Schedule an interview here: 🔗 https://8158podcast.com/contact-us 📢 Join our community & get exclusive content: 🔗 http://Patreon.com/8158podcast

Today, we honor Officer Collin James Rose — a beloved K-9 handler, loyal friend, and dedicated law-enforcement professional whose life of service continues to ripple through the world long after his End of Watch. This episode walks through Collin’s story: • his early passion for public service • his remarkable work with K-9 partners Clyde and Wolverine • the tragic night of November 22, 2016 • and the extraordinary legacy that rose from loss We also highlight the Officer Collin Rose Memorial Foundation, created to continue Collin’s mission through scholarships, K-9 safety initiatives, fallen-officer family support, and community outreach. Collin’s story is a powerful reminder that heroes are never forgotten — their impact lives on through the people and communities they served. 💙 If you feel moved by this episode, we encourage you to learn more, support the foundation, and share Collin’s story so his legacy continues to shine. ⸻ 🔗 Important Links 💙 Officer Collin Rose Memorial Foundation: https://www.collinrosememorial.org 🎙 8158 Podcast Website: https://www.8158podcast.com 💙 Support the William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation: https://www.8158podcast.com/donate 📅 Be a Guest on the Show: https://8158podcast.com/contact-us 🔒 Exclusive Behind-the-Scenes Content (Patreon): http://Patreon.com/8158podcast

Trauma changes everything — how you think, how you react, and how you see yourself. But it doesn’t have to define your future. In this powerful episode, Rico and BriAnn open up about what it means to move from survival mode to rebuilding a life of purpose. Rico shares how he earned his CDL while incarcerated — not just as a way to find work, but as the first step in reclaiming his identity. Together, they unpack what trauma really is, how it shows up in everyday life, and the moment you begin to take your power back. 💙 Whether you’re a first responder, veteran, or someone simply trying to find healing after hardship — this conversation will remind you that you are not broken, you are becoming. ✨ Listen now and take the first step toward your own transition. ⸻ 🔗 Show Notes / Links: 💙 Support the mission: Donate to the William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation (https://www.8158podcast.com/donate) 🌐 Website: https://www.8158podcast.com 🎙 Be a guest: https://8158podcast.com/contact-us 📢 Exclusive content: http://Patreon.com/8158podcast

🎧 Disclaimer Statement: The views, opinions, and experiences shared in this episode belong solely to the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of the 8158 Podcast, its hosts, sponsors, or affiliates. The stories shared are based on personal experiences and perspectives. While every effort is made to present information responsibly, the podcast does not verify or guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any statements made by guests. This content is provided for informational and storytelling purposes only and should not be interpreted as factual claims, professional advice, or official representation of any organization. Listener discretion is advised. ——— This Veterans Day, we pause to honor the men and women who’ve worn our nation’s uniform — and the families who’ve stood faithfully beside them. In this special one-hour episode of 8158 Podcast: Stories of Sacrifice, Rico and BriAnn reflect on what service truly means beyond the battlefield. From stories of courage and loss to the quiet strength of those transitioning back home, this episode is a heartfelt reminder that the mission doesn’t end when the uniform comes off. 🎖️ Hear stories that inspire, honor, and remind us all of the true cost of freedom — and the power of community that continues long after service. 💙 Whether you’ve served, loved someone who has, or simply want to better understand the meaning of sacrifice, this episode will move you. ⸻ 🔗 Support the mission: Donate to the William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation: 👉 https://www.8158podcast.com/donate 🌐 Visit our website: 👉 https://www.8158podcast.com 🎙 Want to be a guest? 👉 https://8158podcast.com/contact-us 📢 Join our community & get exclusive content: 👉 http://Patreon.com/8158podcast

DISCLAIMER: The views, opinions, and experiences shared in this episode belong solely to the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of the 8158 Podcast, its hosts, sponsors, or affiliates. The stories shared are based on personal experiences and perspectives. While every effort is made to present information responsibly, the podcast does not verify or guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any statements made by guests. This content is provided for informational and storytelling purposes only and should not be interpreted as factual claims, professional advice, or official representation of any organization. Listener discretion is advised. ------------------------------- 💔 Three Names. One City. Endless Courage. In this powerful episode, Rico and BriAnn pay tribute to three Cleveland Police Officers whose lives and legacies continue to echo through the heart of the city. We remember:👮‍♂️ Officer Jamieson Ritter — End of Watch: July 4, 2024A young Army National Guard veteran whose calm courage and quiet leadership left an unforgettable mark. 👮‍♂️ Officer Shane Henry Bartek — End of Watch: December 31, 2021A light to everyone around him — joyful, selfless, and driven by faith in the good within others. 👮‍♂️ Officer David J. Fahey Jr. — End of Watch: January 24, 2017A steady, humble protector whose final moments remind us of the unseen heroism lived out every day. Together, their stories form a portrait of service, sacrifice, and love that defines what it means to protect and serve. 💙 ⸻ 💙 Support the mission:Donate to the William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation:🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com/donate 🌐 Website:🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com 🎙 Want to be a guest?Schedule an interview here:🔗 https://8158podcast.com/contact-us 📢 Join our community & get exclusive content:🔗 http://Patreon.com/8158podcast ⸻ #FirstResponderMentalHealth #BackTheBlue #NeverForgotten #ClevelandPolice #8158Podcast #StoriesOfSacrifice #YouAreNotAlone

🎧 Disclaimer Statement (to be read or inserted at the start of each episode): The views, opinions, and experiences shared in this episode belong solely to the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of the 8158 Podcast, its hosts, sponsors, or affiliates. The stories shared are based on personal experiences and perspectives. While every effort is made to present information responsibly, the podcast does not verify or guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any statements made by guests. This content is provided for informational and storytelling purposes only and should not be interpreted as factual claims, professional advice, or official representation of any organization. Listener discretion is advised. ——————- This week on the 8158 Podcast: Stories of Sacrifice, we sit down with Dr. Joy Hutchinson, a former New Orleans paramedic turned trauma and grief counselor for first responders. With over a decade of experience in emergency medicine and a PhD in Counseling Education and Supervision, Dr. Hutchinson now dedicates her work to supporting first responders through 1:1 counseling, training leadership teams, and advocating for policy change in mental health care. In this episode, Joy shares her powerful journey from the ambulance to advocacy—discussing the realities of trauma in the field, the need for better support systems, and how her research and training are shaping the future of first responder wellness. 💙 A must-listen for anyone who serves, supports, or stands behind our heroes. 💙 Support the mission: Donate to the William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com/donate 🌐 Website: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com (https://www.8158podcast.com/) 🎙 Want to be a guest? Schedule an interview here: 🔗 https://8158podcast.com/contact-us 📢 Join our community & get exclusive content: 🔗 http://Patreon.com/8158podcast (http://patreon.com/8158podcast) Joy's Bio: Dr. Joy Hutchinson is a licensed professional counselor in Tennessee and a former paramedic whose work bridges counseling, education, and first responder wellness. At West Virginia University, she teaches and conducts research focused on culturally responsive and trauma-informed care for firefighters, EMTs, law enforcement officers, dispatchers, and other emergency personnel. Her current projects examine help-seeking behaviors among EMTs, cost-benefit analyses of preemptive mental health programs, and leadership training to reduce stigma and improve early intervention within rural and volunteer departments. She is also studying current approaches and trainings for counselors who work with first responders, and she is developing a West Virginia First Responder Mental Health Database, a statewide resource connecting responders with culturally competent providers. Dr. Hutchinson is the administrator of the First Responder PTSD Research Facebook page, a hub for sharing research updates, resources, and outreach opportunities for the first responder community. 🔗 Connect with Dr. Joy Hutchinson: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-hutchinson-ph-d-lpc-mhsp-ncc-cctp-ii-emt-p-350ab2181/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emscares 📧 Email: mailto:joy.hutchinson@mail.wvu.edu

🎧 Disclaimer Statement (to be read or inserted at the start of each episode): The views, opinions, and experiences shared in this episode belong solely to the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of the 8158 Podcast, its hosts, sponsors, or affiliates. The stories shared are based on personal experiences and perspectives. While every effort is made to present information responsibly, the podcast does not verify or guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any statements made by guests. This content is provided for informational and storytelling purposes only and should not be interpreted as factual claims, professional advice, or official representation of any organization. Listener discretion is advised. ⸻ In this episode of 8158 Podcast: Stories of Sacrifice, we sit down with Isa, a Lead EMT from Florida whose path has been marked by both pain and perseverance. Growing up in a tumultuous home, Isa carried childhood trauma into adulthood, facing unimaginable loss when her best friend was murdered and shortly after losing her beloved dog. These back-to-back tragedies led her into a deep depression, two Baker Acts, and a suicide attempt. But Isa’s story didn’t end there. With nine years of experience as a CNA—including during the height of COVID—Isa found a new calling. In 2022, she was awarded a scholarship to attend EMT school, a turning point that launched her into the role she thrives in today. Now running an ambulance as a Lead EMT, Isa is committed to becoming an FTO and one day working with Recovery Alliance to help others battling their own struggles. This conversation dives deep into Isa’s past, her resilience, and her mission to turn pain into purpose. 💙 Support the mission: Donate to the William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com/donate 🌐 Website: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com 🎙 Want to be a guest? Schedule an interview here: 🔗 https://8158podcast.com/contact-us 📢 Join our community & get exclusive content: 🔗 http://Patreon.com/8158podcast #FirstResponderMentalHealth #RelentlessCourage #8158Podcast #BackTheBlue #YouAreNotAlone

⚠️ DISCLAIMER: The views, opinions, and experiences shared in this episode belong solely to the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of the 8158 Podcast, its hosts, sponsors, or affiliates. The stories shared are based on personal experiences and perspectives. While every effort is made to present information responsibly, the podcast does not verify or guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any statements made by guests. This content is provided for informational and storytelling purposes only and should not be interpreted as factual claims, professional advice, or official representation of any organization. Listener discretion is advised. ——— In this episode of 8158 Podcast: Stories of Sacrifice, we sit down with Joe Danna, a veteran law enforcement officer and candidate for Sheriff. Joe shares the driving force behind his decision to step into leadership, the challenges of running a campaign, and his vision for building trust between deputies and the community. We also talk about the importance of mental health and wellness in law enforcement, how to balance tradition with the evolving demands of policing, and the legacy Joe hopes to leave behind if elected Sheriff. His story is one of service, resilience, and commitment to protecting and connecting with the people he serves. 💙 Support the mission: Donate to the William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com/donate 🌐 Website: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com 🎙 Want to be a guest? Schedule an interview here: 🔗 https://8158podcast.com/contact-us 📢 Join our community & get exclusive content: 🔗 http://Patreon.com/8158podcast

⚠️ DISCLAIMER: The views, opinions, and experiences shared in this episode belong solely to the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of the 8158 Podcast, its hosts, sponsors, or affiliates. The stories shared are based on personal experiences and perspectives. While every effort is made to present information responsibly, the podcast does not verify or guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any statements made by guests. This content is provided for informational and storytelling purposes only and should not be interpreted as factual claims, professional advice, or official representation of any organization. Listener discretion is advised. ⸻ 📖 Episode Description: In this special bonus episode of the 8158 Podcast: Stories of Sacrifice, we honor four Mississippi heroes — Officer Troy Floyd, Corporal Zach Moak, Officer James White, and Deputy William “Bill” Durr — who gave their lives in the line of duty. Each of these men was more than a uniform. They were fathers, friends, mentors, and protectors who lived lives rooted in courage, compassion, and faith. From mentoring those who needed a second chance to laying down their lives for others, their legacies continue to inspire all who serve. This episode was requested by Amanda Watts, whose heartfelt outreach reminds us why it’s so important to keep saying their names and sharing their stories. Going forward, we’ll be dedicating one bonus episode each month to honor a hero submitted by you — our listeners. 💙 Support the mission: Donate to the William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com/donate 🌐 Website: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com 🎙 Want to be a guest? Schedule an interview here: 🔗 https://8158podcast.com/contact-us 📢 Join our community & get exclusive content: 🔗 http://Patreon.com/8158podcast

⚠️ DISCLAIMER: The views, opinions, and experiences shared in this episode belong solely to the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of the 8158 Podcast, its hosts, sponsors, or affiliates. The stories shared are based on personal experiences and perspectives. While every effort is made to present information responsibly, the podcast does not verify or guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any statements made by guests. This content is provided for informational and storytelling purposes only and should not be interpreted as factual claims, professional advice, or official representation of any organization. Listener discretion is advised. ————— In this episode of the 8158 Podcast: Stories of Sacrifice, we sit down with Monty Montanez — Air Force veteran, businessman, and candidate for U.S. Congress in Texas. Monty’s story begins with a childhood marked by sacrifice, discipline, and resilience. From ranking as a Jr. Olympian runner to serving in Bosnia, Kosovo, and the Middle East after 9/11, to earning his MBA in China and spending a decade abroad — his path has been one of grit, growth, and purpose. Now back in Texas, retired and 100% disabled from his military service, Monty has dedicated himself to helping fellow veterans through his transport company and is stepping forward once again — this time into the political arena. 🎧 Tune in as Monty shares his journey through service, sacrifice, and why he believes now is the time to stand up for his community in Washington. 💙 Support the mission: Donate to the William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com/donate 🌐 Website: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com 🎙 Want to be a guest? Schedule an interview here: 🔗 https://8158podcast.com/contact-us 📢 Join our community & get exclusive content: 🔗 http://Patreon.com/8158podcast

DISCLAIMER: The views, opinions, and experiences shared in this episode belong solely to the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of the 8158 Podcast, its hosts, sponsors, or affiliates. The stories shared are based on personal experiences and perspectives. While every effort is made to present information responsibly, the podcast does not verify or guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any statements made by guests. This content is provided for informational and storytelling purposes only and should not be interpreted as factual claims, professional advice, or official representation of any organization. Listener discretion is advised. ---------------- In this powerful episode of the 8158 Podcast: Stories of Sacrifice, we sit down with former Arkansas firefighter and EMT, Robb Watts. From a childhood filled with abuse to the frontlines of trauma in Pine Bluff—where he witnessed drive-bys, gang violence, and the unthinkable loss of children—Robb’s story is raw and real. As the weight of years in fire and EMS began to take its toll, Robb turned to alcohol and narcotics, struggling with nightmares, anger, and suicidal thoughts. His breaking point led him to Warriors Heart in Texas, a place of healing for first responders and veterans battling PTSD and addiction. Now living with stage 3 kidney failure, Robb is asking the question, “What is my purpose?”—and in this conversation, he opens up about his darkest moments, his fight for recovery, and his hope for others walking the same path. 💙 Support the mission: Donate to the William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com/donate 🌐 Website: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com 🎙 Want to be a guest? Schedule an interview here: 🔗 https://8158podcast.com/contact-us 📢 Join our community & get exclusive content: 🔗 http://Patreon.com/8158podcast

DISCLAIMER: The views, opinions, and experiences shared in this episode belong solely to the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of the 8158 Podcast, its hosts, sponsors, or affiliates. The stories shared are based on personal experiences and perspectives. While every effort is made to present information responsibly, the podcast does not verify or guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any statements made by guests. This content is provided for informational and storytelling purposes only and should not be interpreted as factual claims, professional advice, or official representation of any organization. Listener discretion is advised. ————————— In this powerful episode of the 8158 Podcast: Stories of Sacrifice, we sit down with former Arkansas firefighter and EMT, Robb Watts. From a childhood filled with abuse to the frontlines of trauma in Pine Bluff—where he witnessed drive-bys, gang violence, and the unthinkable loss of children—Robb’s story is raw and real. As the weight of years in fire and EMS began to take its toll, Robb turned to alcohol and narcotics, struggling with nightmares, anger, and suicidal thoughts. His breaking point led him to Warriors Heart in Texas, a place of healing for first responders and veterans battling PTSD and addiction. Now living with stage 3 kidney failure, Robb is asking the question, “What is my purpose?”—and in this conversation, he opens up about his darkest moments, his fight for recovery, and his hope for others walking the same path. 💙 Support the mission: Donate to the William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com/donate 🌐 Website: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com 🎙 Want to be a guest? Schedule an interview here: 🔗 https://8158podcast.com/contact-us 📢 Join our community & get exclusive content: 🔗 http://Patreon.com/8158podcast

DISCLAIMER: The views, opinions, and experiences shared in this episode belong solely to the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of the 8158 Podcast, its hosts, sponsors, or affiliates. The stories shared are based on personal experiences and perspectives. While every effort is made to present information responsibly, the podcast does not verify or guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any statements made by guests. This content is provided for informational and storytelling purposes only and should not be interpreted as factual claims, professional advice, or official representation of any organization. Listener discretion is advised. ————————— Rico sits down with Justin Hesse—law enforcement veteran, Minnesota Army National Guard MP, and founder of Blue Line Fitness—to talk bullying, a near-suicide at 17, service, Guantanamo Bay, and why 2020 pushed so many first responders to the edge. Justin shares how fitness became his lifeline and breaks down simple, no-BS steps to drop the dad-bod, rebuild confidence, and protect your mental health—on and off shift. If you’re police, fire, EMS, dispatch, military, or someone who loves them, this one’s for you. 💙🏋️‍♂️ Find Justin on social: Fit Cop Coach (Facebook & Instagram) If you’re struggling today, please reach out. You matter, and your story isn’t over. 🙏 💙 Support the mission: Donate to the William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com/donate 🌐 Website: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com 🎙 Want to be a guest? Schedule an interview here: 🔗 https://8158podcast.com/contact-us 📢 Join our community & get exclusive content: 🔗 http://Patreon.com/8158podcast

From a childhood marked by instability to rising above abuse and breaking barriers in emergency services—Maisi’s story is one of grit, heart, and healing. 💙 In this episode, Maisi, an EMT-A from the VT/NH region, opens up about the trauma that shaped her, the turning point that led her to EMS, and the battles she’s faced as a woman in the field—from sexual harassment to self-doubt. She shares what it was like getting her EMT certification during COVID, overcoming toxic relationships, and how she’s now balancing college life, dual degrees in EMS and psychology, and chasing her dream of becoming a flight nurse. 🚁 This raw and real conversation sheds light on the mental health toll of the job—and the strength it takes to keep showing up. ⚠️ Trigger warning: This episode includes discussion of abuse, mental health struggles, and harassment. ⸻ 💙 Support the mission: Donate to the William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com/donate 🌐 Website: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com 🎙 Want to be a guest? Schedule an interview here: 🔗 https://8158podcast.com/contact-us 📢 Join our community & get exclusive content: 🔗 http://Patreon.com/8158podcast

In this powerful episode of the 8158 Podcast: Stories of Sacrifice, we sit down with Buddy Lee Dobbertteen—a Marine Corps veteran who served five combat tours in Iraq. His journey from an abusive childhood, to the battlefield, to rock bottom, and finally to healing through music and writing is raw, unfiltered, and inspiring. Buddy opens up about survivor’s guilt, addiction, suicidal ideation, and loss. He also shares how music became therapy, what it took to write The Sword of Autumn (available on Amazon), and his vision for a nonprofit supporting “military brats” and a groundbreaking PTSD-centered video game. 💙 Support the mission: Donate to the William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com/donate 🌐 Website: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com 🎙 Want to be a guest? Schedule an interview here: 🔗 https://8158podcast.com/contact-us 📢 Join our community & get exclusive content: 🔗 http://Patreon.com/8158podcast