8158 Podcast: Stories of Sacrifice

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

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 body scene and a shocking backup fail involving Netflix. From wild inmate antics to moments of real change, Messiah opens up about the good, the bad, and the downright unexpected sides of the job.
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Schedule an interview here:
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#FirstResponderMentalHealth #RelentlessCourage #8158Podcast #BackTheBlue #YouAreNotAlone

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

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 takes to love someone who runs toward danger. We talk about holidays spent apart, the toll on mental health, and what it really means to be a firefighter’s mom. This is a story of sacrifice, resilience, and unconditional love.
💙 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

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

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 heartbreaking loss of Charlee, and how they turned their grief into action through Charlee’s Orchard, a nonprofit supporting families of children with Down syndrome. Join us as we discuss the challenges, triumphs, and future goals of their incredible mission.
💙 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

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

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 Ventura Youth Correctional Facility. Decades later, their relationship has transformed from duty and survival to friendship and growth. This is a powerful story of redemption, second chances, and the human spirit’s ability to rise above circumstance.
Don’t miss this heartfelt conversation that challenges assumptions and celebrates the strength it takes to change a life—yours or someone else’s.
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💙 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 #StoriesOfSacrifice #Redemption #SecondChances #CorrectionsOfficers #PrisonMinistry

BIG ANNOUNCEMENT!!!

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

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

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 Frontline Trauma, Michael is on a mission to break the stigma surrounding mental health in law enforcement and beyond.
We dive into the realities of cumulative trauma, the challenges of seeking help, and how departments can better support those who serve. If you or someone you love wears the badge, this episode is a must-listen. 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
#FirstResponderMentalHealth #RelentlessCourage #8158Podcast #BackTheBlue #YouAreNotAlone

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

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 resilience, courage, and a commitment to breaking the stigma around mental health, Adam’s story is one of survival, recovery, and advocacy. Tune in for an unforgettable conversation about the realities first responders face and the support they deserve.
💙 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 18: RedBeard the Medic: The Realities of EMS, Mental Health & Resilience

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 he’s using his platform to mentor and advocate for first responders.

Episode 17: Honoring heroes with Sirens and Salutes

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 how you can support their mission.
Learn more, donate, or get involved at SirensAndSalutes.org. Follow them on Facebook or reach out via email at SirensAndSalutes@gmail.com

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

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 impact of Ducks4Dad, and their dream of helping other kids left behind. Join us as we talk about love, loss, and the power of a small rubber duck to make a big difference.