8158 Podcast: Stories of Sacrifice

Episode 29: From Trauma to Triumph: Isa’s Journey as a Florida EMT

🎧 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.
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🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com
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Schedule an interview here:
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#FirstResponderMentalHealth #RelentlessCourage #8158Podcast #BackTheBlue #YouAreNotAlone

Episode 28: Leadership, Legacy, and Law Enforcement: Sheriff Candidate Joe Danna

⚠️ 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.
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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:
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BONUS: Mississippi’s Fallen Heroes: Honoring Floyd, Moak, White & Durr

⚠️ 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.
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📖 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

Episode 27: From Jr. Olympian to Congress: The Journey of Monty Montanez

⚠️ 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.
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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:
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Episode 26: From the “Wild Wild West” to Warriors Heart: Robb Watts’ Journey Through Fire, Trauma, and Redemption (part 2)

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.
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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

Episode 25: From the “Wild Wild West” to Warriors Heart: Robb Watts’ Journey Through Fire, Trauma, and Redemption (part 1)

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.
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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

Episode 24: From Bullied Teen to Fit Cop Coach: Justin Hesse on Turning Pain into Purpose

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.
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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

Episode 23: Maisi’s Story: Finding Purpose After Pain in the EMS World

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.
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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

Episode 22: Survivor’s Guilt, Suicide, and Second Chances | Buddy Lee Dobbertteen

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.
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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
 
Purchase his book here: https://amzn.to/4oueA1v

Episode 21: From Cav Scout to Cop: Sgt. Lewis on Service, Struggles & Mental Health

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.
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In this episode of 8158: Stories of Sacrifice, we sit down with Sergeant Lewis—better known on TikTok as @Ty_Nation. From his years in the 82nd Airborne Division and deployment to Mosul, Iraq, to life as a small-town police sergeant, Sgt. Lewis shares an unfiltered look at the highs and lows of service. He opens up about growing up with a troubled father, his unlikely path into law enforcement, the challenges of repeat offenders and juvenile crime, and an officer-involved shooting that reshaped his view on mental health. Sgt. Lewis also shares his personal journey with panic attacks and therapy, reminding us that seeking help is a sign of strength—not weakness. If you or someone you know is struggling, call the 8158 Hotline at 209-542-8158. 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