Best 8158 Podcast Podcasts (2025)

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Episode 32: Legacy in the Making: Joshua Cote on Loss, Mental Health & Life in EMS 1:30:29

15h ago1:30:29

1:30:29

At just 16, Joshua Cote began serving his community as a volunteer firefighter in Maine—never expecting the journey would shape not only his career but his mental health and personal identity. From early success in SkillsUSA to becoming a full-time paramedic in 2016, Josh has seen both triumph and tragedy. In this powerful episode, Josh opens up ab…

1
Episode 32: Legacy in the Making: Joshua Cote on Loss, Mental Health & Life in EMS 1:30:26

19h ago1:30:26

1:30:26

At just 16, Joshua Cote began serving his community as a volunteer firefighter in Maine—never expecting the journey would shape not only his career but his mental health and personal identity. From early success in SkillsUSA to becoming a full-time paramedic in 2016, Josh has seen both triumph and tragedy.In this powerful episode, Josh opens up abo…

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Episode 31: From Isolation to Impact: Rob’s Journey Through War, Trauma & Service (Part 2) 1:00:37

5d ago1:00:37

1:00:37

In Part 2, Rob shares the story of the officer-involved shooting that would change everything. A running gunfight, two armed teens—one with a homicide warrant—and a moment that triggered a wave of emotional trauma.We follow his courageous decision to step away from law enforcement for five years to focus on mental health. Rob talks about the therap…

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Episode 30: From Isolation to Impact: Rob’s Journey Through War, Trauma & Service (Part 1) 1:04:30

5d ago1:04:30

1:04:30

Part 1: From Isolation to IraqIn Part 1 of Rob’s powerful journey, we explore his early years growing up in Denver and Dallas, the challenges of life with a single father and a harsh stepmother, and the emotional toll of childhood isolation. Rob opens up about enlisting in the U.S. Army, his deployment to Iraq, and the hidden wounds he brought home…

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BONUS EPISODE: “Ground Flounder to Firefighter: Mick’s Vietnam Story of Sacrifice” 1:41:37

7d ago1:41:37

1:41:37

In this special Memorial Day episode of the 8158 Podcast: Stories of Sacrifice, we sit down with 75-year-old Vietnam veteran Mick—whose life of service spans far beyond the battlefield.Mick served 16.5 years in the Army, completing two tours in Vietnam as a tanker and Search & Destroy team member. From exposure to Agent Orange to operating B40 mort…

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BONUS: Ground Flounder to Firefighter: Mick’s Vietnam Story of Sacrifice 1:41:37

7d ago1:41:37

1:41:37

In this special Memorial Day episode of the 8158 Podcast: Stories of Sacrifice, we sit down with 75-year-old Vietnam veteran Mick—whose life of service spans far beyond the battlefield.Mick served 16.5 years in the Army, completing two tours in Vietnam as a tanker and Search & Destroy team member. From exposure to Agent Orange to operating B40 mort…

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Episode 29: Boots on the Ground: 24/7 Support for First Responders & Veterans (Part 2) 1:01:32

8d ago1:01:32

1:01:32

In Part 2 of our powerful conversation with Bonnie, we dive deeper into the real-life impact of peer support and the challenges first responders face when navigating work-related trauma, compensation, and recovery.💙 Support the mission:Donate to the William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation:🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com/donate🌐 Website:🔗 https://www.…

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Episode 28: Boots on the Ground: 24/7 Support for First Responders & Veterans (Part 1) 54:29

8d ago54:29

54:29

Part 1: Episode DescriptionIn this episode of 8158: Stories of Sacrifice, we’re joined by Bonnie from Boots on the Ground Alberta—a 24/7 peer support hotline serving first responders, veterans, and frontline workers.With a background in emergency dispatch and deep knowledge of Veterans Affairs Canada, Bonnie shares what makes peer support so powerf…

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Episode 27: The Voice Behind the Call: Debbie’s Story of Strength, Silence, and Survival 1:03:27

12d ago1:03:27

1:03:27

In this powerful episode of 8158: Stories of Sacrifice, we sit down with Debbie, a retired dispatcher who served her community for 27 years. In 2019, a tragic on-air incident changed her life forever when she heard a deputy lose his life during a call. The weight of that moment—and years of compound trauma—led to her retirement in 2021.Debbie opens…

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Episode 26: Strength in the Struggle: Payton’s Journey from Trauma to EMS 1:38:58

15d ago1:38:58

1:38:58

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Payton—a Delaware-based EMS provider with a story of resilience that will stop you in your tracks. From a childhood marked by trauma to navigating life as one of two women in her department, Payton opens up about the emotional weight of the job, the challenges of balancing motherhood, and her dreams of wha…

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Episode 25: Service, Struggle & Strength: Jacob’s Journey from Coast Guard to Community Hero (Part 2) 58:35

19d ago58:35

58:35

Part 2: Purpose Beyond the UniformAfter 12 years in the fire service and now serving as a historian with the American Legion, Jacob is using his story to help others. He’s dedicated to supporting first responders and veterans through community outreach, education, and heart-led advocacy. This is a story of grit, growth, and giving back.💙 Support th…

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Episode 24: Service, Struggle & Strength: Jacob’s Journey from Coast Guard to Community Hero (Part 1) 1:04:55

22d ago1:04:55

1:04:55

Part 1: Jacob’s JourneyIn this powerful episode, we sit down with Jacob—a Coast Guard veteran, former firefighter, and lifelong advocate for mental health and service. From dropping out of high school to surviving trauma, Jacob opens up about his raw and real journey through loss, resilience, and rediscovery. He shares how cannabis, community, and …

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Episode 23: From Stickers to Cell Blocks: Messiah’s Journey Behind the Walls 1:34:03

26d ago1:34:03

1:34:03

At just 20 years old, Messiah is already walking one of the toughest beats in Harris County, Texas—as a night shift corrections officer. In this episode, he shares how a childhood moment with a K9 officer sparked his dream, the reality of working inside the jail system, and the unforgettable calls that shaped his first year—including his first dead…

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Episode 22: A Mother’s Fire: Loving a Son in the Line of Duty 1:08:38

29d ago1:08:38

1:08:38

In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Maria, the proud mother of a lifelong firefighter, Joseph. From firehouse tours as a toddler to becoming the youngest lieutenant in Atlanta, Joseph’s path was always clear—but for Maria, being the mom of a first responder hasn’t been easy. She opens up about the pride, the fear, and the quiet strength it …

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Episode 21: From EMS to Foster Parenting: A Life of Service and Love 1:30:24

1M ago1:30:24

1:30:24

In this episode, we sit down with Matthew, a dedicated EMS professional with 27 years of experience, a paramedicine instructor, and a passionate foster parent. Matthew and his wife have opened their hearts to 15 medically complex children, including Charlee, one of the first children they adopted. He shares the emotional journey of fostering, the h…

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BONUS: From Guard to Guardian: A Bond Forged Behind Bars” 51:20

1M ago51:20

51:20

In this episode of the 8158 Podcast: Stories of Sacrifice, we share the remarkable journey of Richard Glassman and Joseph Herd Jr.—two men whose lives collided behind prison walls but became forever connected through an act of courage and an unexpected bond.Richard, a corrections officer, once saved Joseph’s life during a brutal attack inside the V…

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BIG ANNOUNCEMENT!!! 1:10

1M ago1:10

1:10

Starting May 4, we will be releasing two episodes per week on Sundays and Wednesday’s because one just isn’t enough!!By 8158 Podcast

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Episode 20: Relentless Courage: Breaking the Silence on First Responder Trauma with Sgt. Michael Sugrue 1:09:06

1M ago1:09:06

1:09:06

First responders are trained to run toward danger, but what happens when the biggest battle is the one they fight within? In this powerful episode of 81-58: Stories of Sacrifice, retired Sgt. Michael Sugrue shares his personal journey through trauma, PTSD, and the road to healing. As the co-author of Relentless Courage: Winning the Battle Against F…

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Episode 19: Surviving the Unthinkable: Adam Meyers’ Story of Resilience 1:30:59

2M ago1:30:59

1:30:59

In this powerful episode of 8158: Stories of Sacrifice, we sit down with Adam Meyers, a dedicated law enforcement officer who faced a life-altering critical incident in 2016. Adam takes us back to the beginning—sharing his journey into law enforcement, the events leading up to that fateful day, and how it changed his life forever. Through resilienc…

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Episode 18: RedBeard the Medic: The Realities of EMS, Mental Health & Resilience 1:33:08

2M ago1:33:08

1:33:08

EMT and educator RedBeard the Medic opens up about the challenges of life in EMS, from the sacrifices of the job to battling PTSD and imposter syndrome. He shares his journey through fire service, mental health struggles, and a pivotal moment in 2021 that changed everything. We dive into the stigma around EMS, the need for better support, and how h…

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Episode 17: Honoring heroes with Sirens and Salutes 1:24:05

2M ago1:24:05

1:24:05

In this episode, we sit down with Bill Price, founder of Sirens and Salutes, a nonprofit dedicated to honoring first responders and veterans. From 9/11 memorial walks to placing flags on graves and delivering meals to those who serve, Bill shares how his organization keeps the memory of our heroes alive. Tune in to hear his powerful story and learn…

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Episode 16: Ducks4Dad: Honoring Deputy Eric Minix, One Duck At A Time 47:13

2M ago47:13

47:13

After losing their dad, Deputy Sheriff and K9 Officer Eric Minix, in the line of duty, sisters Adelynn and Harper started Ducks4Dad to keep his memory alive. They’ve handed out thousands of ducks to honor his legacy, connecting with families across the country who have also lost loved ones in service. In this episode, they share their story, the im…

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Episode 15: Rising from the Ashes – Anthony’s Journey of Recovery Part 2 1:43:19

2M ago1:43:19

1:43:19

Part Two: Rising from the Ashes – Anthony’s Journey of Recovery In Part Two, we explore Anthony’s fight for recovery. Struggling with PTSD and the aftermath of his injuries, he turned to addiction and lost his sense of purpose. But with the support of his wife and therapy, he found a new path in storm chasing and on-scene photography. This is a sto…

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Episode 14: Born Into the Fire – Anthony’s Story Part 1 1:32:51

2M ago1:32:51

1:32:51

Raised by firefighters after his father left, Anthony found his purpose in the fire service. From the moment he was old enough to help at the station, firefighting became his life. But after a devastating explosion during a call left him with life-altering injuries, Anthony faced PTSD, addiction, and a battle to rebuild. In this episode, we dive in…

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Epiosde 13: From Fire to the Force: VA Leo’s Journey in Public Safety 1:21:44

3M ago1:21:44

1:21:44

In this episode of 81-58: Stories of Sacrifice, we sit down with VA Leo, a dedicated first responder who transitioned from firefighting to law enforcement. Now serving as a street cop in a small town with big-city problems, he’s passionate about getting drugs and guns off the streets while navigating the personal sacrifices of the job. From night s…

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Episode 12: From the Frontlines to the Headset – Part 2 -Miranda’s Story 51:44

3M ago51:44

51:44

In Part 2, Miranda shares her transition from paramedic to dispatcher, the challenges of being the voice behind the radio, and how a life-changing accident reshaped her career. She opens up about the highs, lows, and critical moments that define the world of emergency dispatch.By 8158 Podcast

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Episode 11: From the Frontlines to the Headset – Miranda’s Story Part 1 50:41

3M ago50:41

50:41

In this episode of 81-58: Stories of Sacrifice, we sit down with Miranda, a seasoned first responder whose journey has taken her from the firehouse to the dispatch center. With over 23 years in emergency services—starting as a paramedic at just 19—Miranda has lived and breathed the high-stakes world of first response. She’s worked in critical care …

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Episode 10: Chasing Justice: Inside the World of Fugitive Recovery with Deputy Chief Boyd 1:13:03

3M ago1:13:03

1:13:03

In this adrenaline-charged episode of 81-58: Stories of Sacrifice, we sit down with Deputy Chief Boyd, owner of B.O.A.R. Fugitive Apprehension Division, to uncover the high-stakes world of bail recovery. With a background in law enforcement, private security, and specialized training, Boyd has dedicated his life to tracking fugitives and ensuring j…

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Episode 9: Breaking Barriers: Chris Ballard’s Journey of Resilience in Corrections 53:57

3M ago53:57

53:57

In this episode of 81-58: Stories of Sacrifice, we sit down with Chris Ballard, a correctional officer at a state prison in Alabama. Chris’s journey is one of resilience, determination, and heart. Despite living with hydrocephalus, cerebral palsy, and high-functioning autism, he has dedicated himself to serving in a demanding and high-risk environm…

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Episode 8: A Brother-in-Law’s Tribute: Remembering Billy Butler Jr. with Joshua Wainscott-Part 2 46:09

4M ago46:09

46:09

In Part 2 of our conversation with Joshua Wainscott, we continue to honor the legacy of Billy Butler Jr. through the eyes of family. In this episode, Josh dives deeper into the impact Billy had—not just as a brother-in-law, but as a devoted son, husband, father, and friend.Josh also shares more about his own experiences growing up in a law enforcem…

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Episode 7: A Brother-in-Law’s Tribute: Remembering Billy Butler Jr. with Joshua Wainscott -Part 1 44:47

4M ago44:47

44:47

In this part 1 of this week’s episode of the 8158 Podcast, we’re joined by Joshua Wainscott, brother-in-law of the late Billy Butler Jr., as he shares heartfelt memories and reflections on Billy’s incredible legacy.Josh recounts the impact of growing up with Billy and Christy, his marriage to Christy in 2021, and the close bond they all shared. He …

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Episode 6: IVEGOTYOURBACK911: Supporting First Responders, Breaking the Stigma, Changing Lives 1:14:18

4M ago1:14:18

1:14:18

In this episode, we sit down with the team behind IVEGOTYOURBACK911, a groundbreaking organization dedicated to supporting the mental health of First Responders. Learn how this movement began with a mission to break the stigma around PTSD and has since grown into a global force for change, offering critical resources like their Peer Support App and…

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Episode 5: Driven by Duty: The Dual Life of Dalton McVey 43:19

4M ago43:19

43:19

In this inspiring episode of 8158: Stories of Sacrifice, Dalton McVey shares how his family’s legacy of service shaped his path to becoming a firefighter. With his father and uncle serving in the fire department for decades, Dalton grew up surrounded by stories of courage and dedication. Despite being born with a medical condition that many thought…

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Episode 4: From Prison to Purpose: Mike Kern’s Journey of Redemption and Service 1:08:04

5M ago1:08:04

1:08:04

In this powerful episode of 8158: Stories of Sacrifice, Mike Kern shares his remarkable journey of redemption, perseverance, and service. After facing personal challenges, including time in prison, Mike felt a deep calling to give back to his community. Inspired by a friend’s work as a firefighter, he decided to take a leap of faith, completing his…

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Episode 3: A Brother’s Love: Christy Butler’s Journey of Family, Loss, and Legacy 40:45

5M ago40:45

40:45

In this emotional episode of 8158: Stories of Sacrifice, Christy Butler, sister of the late Deputy Billy Butler Jr., reflects on her deep bond with her brother and the lasting impact he had on her life. From their childhood memories to the way Billy influenced her views on family, community, and service, Christy shares intimate stories that showcas…

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Episode 2: Holding On: Sarah Butler’s Journey Through Grief and Resilience 58:12

5M ago58:12

58:12

In this powerful episode of 8158: Stories of Sacrifice, we hear from Sarah Butler, the widow of Deputy Billy Butler Jr., who tragically lost his life in the line of duty. Sarah shares her journey through grief, resilience, and the deep love she continues to carry for her late husband.As she reflects on the sacrifice Billy made and the impact on the…

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Episode 1: Starting the Journey – Rico’s Story 47:25

5M ago47:25

47:25

In this debut episode of 8158: Stories of Sacrifice, host Rico shares the inspiration behind the podcast and his personal connection to the world of first responders. Dive into the heart of why these stories matter, the sacrifices they represent, and the mission to honor the heroes who protect and serve.Through this self-interview, Rico reflects on…

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Trailer 2:21

5M ago2:21

2:21

81-58: Stories of Sacrifice is a podcast dedicated to honoring the lives of first responders and their families. Through heartfelt interviews, we uncover the untold stories of bravery, love, and resilience behind the uniform. Join host Rico as we explore the personal challenges, sacrifices, and inspiring moments that define those who serve and prot…

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