8158 Podcast: Stories of Sacrifice
A heartfelt podcast honoring the sacrifices of first responders and their families. Through raw and inspiring stories, host Rico explores the bravery, resilience, and love that define their lives. Each episode sheds light on the personal challenges and triumphs behind the badge, offering listeners a deeper understanding of the human side of service. Together, we celebrate their dedication and preserve their legacy. 💙
Episodes

Sunday Jul 27, 2025
Sunday Jul 27, 2025
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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Emilee Landreth knows what it’s like to be behind the headset when everything goes wrong. After five years in dispatch—fielding line-of-duty deaths, suicides, and trauma with no access to debriefings—she knew something had to change. Now a licensed therapist in North Carolina, Emilee is on a mission to serve those who serve us. In this powerful episode, she shares her personal journey from dispatch to mental health, how her law enforcement roots shaped her career, and what she wants every first responder to know about healing, trauma, and hope. 💙 Whether you’re struggling silently or just need someone who gets it—this one’s for you. ⸻ 📞 Need Help Now? Crisis & Peer Support Lines: 🧠 First Responders Peer Support (24/7): 833-377-7648 🧠 Frontline Helpline (24/7): 866-676-7500 🧠 Veterans Crisis Line: 800-273-8255 opt 1 🧠 Share The Load: 888-731-3473 🧠 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988 📱 Crisis Text Line: Text “HELP” to 741741 📱 Next Rung: Text SUPPORT, COUNSELING, or TREATMENT to 833-698-7864 🚔 Copline (LEO Only): 800-267-5463 ⸻ 👩⚕️ Therapist Contact – NC Only (Expanding Soon): Emilee Landreth, MSW, LCSW-A 📞 Office: 704-269-6068 | Crisis: 828-290-9125 🌐 http://www.tlctherapycenter.com 📧 resilientfrontlines@tlctherapycenter.com 🧠 Responder Support Services (WNC + Upstate SC): 📞 Office: 828-333-5708 | Crisis: 828-209-8038 ⸻ 🌐 Helpful Sites: 📚 First Responder Center for Excellence (https://firstrespondercenter.org/resource-hub) 📚 First Responders Foundation Mental Health Resources (https://firstrespondersfoundation.org/mental-health-resources-for-first-responders/) ⸻ 💙 Support the mission: Donate to the William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com/donate 🎙️ Subscribe & Listen: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com 📢 Join us on Patreon: 🔗 http://Patreon.com/8158podcast 💬 Be a guest or share your story: 🔗 https://8158podcast.com/contact-us ⸻ #EmileeLandreth #FirstResponderTherapist #911Dispatch #MentalHealthSupport #BackTheBlue #YouAreNotAlone #TraumaHealing #FrontlineTherapy #RelentlessCourage #8158Podcast #StoriesOfSacrifice #FYP

Wednesday Jul 23, 2025
Wednesday Jul 23, 2025
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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This special bonus episode was recorded live with Darryl, a National Guard Veteran, as he shares his journey through service, transition, and personal growth. Hosted by Rico, this conversation dives deep into what it means to serve, adapt, and find purpose after the uniform. 📍 Please note: Due to the live setting and close recording setup, you may hear some light feedback and background noise throughout the episode. — 💙 Support the mission: https://www.8158podcast.com/donate 🎙 Be a guest: https://8158podcast.com/contact-us 🌐 Explore more: https://www.8158podcast.com 🎧 Get exclusive content: http://Patreon.com/8158podcast

Wednesday Jul 16, 2025
Wednesday Jul 16, 2025
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 bonus episode, we’re flipping the mic around as 8158 Podcast creator and host, Rico, opens up about his next chapter—stepping into life coaching. After years of simply surviving—pushing through pain, grief, and identity shifts—Rico found purpose through storytelling. Now, he’s ready to help others move from just surviving to fully living. 💬 He shares: • What survival mode really looks like • How his healing journey began • Why he’s launching coaching for people ready to rewrite their story • What his coaching will look like (1:1, group, and digital tools) If you’ve ever felt stuck, lost, or unsure of what’s next—this one’s for you. 💙 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 #FromSurvivalToLiving #RewriteYourStory #LifeAfterTrauma #8158Podcast #BackTheBlue #YouAreNotAlone #StoriesOfSacrifice #FirstResponderMentalHealth #RelentlessCourage

Wednesday Jul 09, 2025
Wednesday Jul 09, 2025
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 deeply personal episode of 81-58: Stories of Sacrifice, host Rico steps into the spotlight to share his own story—one of pain, resilience, redemption, and purpose. Born in Oakland and raised in chaos, Rico found himself caught in a cycle of instability, incarceration, and searching for direction. From foster care and boys camp to prison and parole, his path was anything but easy. But through it all, he discovered strength, found healing, and uncovered a purpose that would one day become this very podcast. Hear how the death of his cousin, Sheriff’s Deputy Billy Butler, became the turning point that gave birth to 81-58 Podcast—a platform honoring the sacrifices of first responders and their families. 💙 Get ready for an honest, emotional, and inspiring story of transformation. 🎧 Episode drops January 8, 2025. 📲 Trailer available now on all platforms! ⸻ 💙 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 ⸻ #8158Podcast #StoriesOfSacrifice #FirstResponderSupport #BackTheBlue #RedemptionStory #FromPrisonToPurpose #YouAreNotAlone

Monday Jul 07, 2025
Monday Jul 07, 2025
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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🎙️ 8158 Podcast: We’re Taking a Short Break 💙 The Stories of Sacrifice podcast is pressing pause — but not for long! We’ll be back with brand new full-length interviews starting June 27, but in the meantime, don’t miss our bonus episodes every Wednesday! These drops will include follow-ups with past guests, powerful new content from Rico, and maybe even details on a live event 👀🔥 Need to reach out or just want to talk? 📞 Support Hotline: 209-542-8158 📧 Email: ContactUs@8158podcast.com Note: Rico is not a licensed therapist and cannot offer legal advice, but this is a safe space to speak — and he will listen. 💙 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 ⸻ #BackTheBlue #YouAreNotAlone #8158Podcast #StoriesOfSacrifice #FirstResponderMentalHealth #RelentlessCourage #SupportOurHeroes #BehindTheBadge #ThinBlueLine #PodcastCommunity #MentalHealthMatters

Sunday Jul 06, 2025
Sunday Jul 06, 2025
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, we sit down with Emma—a first responder, wife, and mother—who shares her journey from adoption through EMS, all while battling invisible wounds. Emma talks about losing her father, feeling guilty for not being there, and how that pain eventually guided her toward a career in emergency medicine. She walks us through the highs and lows of EMT school, raising a family in a dual first responder household, and learning to prioritize her mental health after hitting a breaking point. Emma’s story reminds us that behind every uniform is a human fighting battles we often don’t see. This conversation is one of healing, grit, and hope. 🎙️ 💙 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 #PTSDRecovery #MentalHealthMatters #BackTheBlue #YouAreNotAlone #8158Podcast #StoriesOfSacrifice

Friday Jul 04, 2025
Friday Jul 04, 2025
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, we team up with Tyler Burns from The Debrief Podcast for a raw and honest conversation about the mental health crisis facing our first responders.
We dive into the stigma surrounding PTSI/PTSD, the fear of speaking out, and the real-life consequences that silence can bring. Together, we explore what needs to change within departments to create safe, supportive environments — and how policy shifts can help save lives.
This isn’t just a conversation — it’s a call to action.
🎥 Watch it on Patreon: patreon.com/8158podcast

Wednesday Jul 02, 2025
Wednesday Jul 02, 2025
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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AJ’s story is one of survival, strength, and service. Emancipated at 15 and raised in a home marked by addiction and abuse, she found her way into emergency medicine—not just as a career, but as a calling. Now with over a decade of experience in EMS, AJ opens up about the organized chaos she thrives in, the pediatric calls that still sit heavy on her heart, and the deep “why” behind the work she does. This episode is raw, powerful, and deeply human. If you’ve ever wondered how someone turns pain into purpose—AJ’s story is one you won’t forget. 💙 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 #SurvivorStory #EMSStrong #8158Podcast #YouAreNotAlone #StoriesOfSacrifice

Sunday Jun 29, 2025
Sunday Jun 29, 2025
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 gripping episode, we sit down with Michael Streed, a.k.a. The SketchCop — a former police officer and forensic artist who has helped solve some of the most high-profile crimes of the last 45 years. From working the Samantha Runyon case to reimagining the Alcatraz escapees and tracking down a Louisiana serial killer, Michael shares how he transforms trauma into powerful composite sketches that lead to justice. We dive into the art and heart behind forensic sketching, the emotional weight of sitting with victims, and his global mission to train others in this powerful craft. He also opens up about personal sacrifice — losing his wife to cancer, carrying on his father’s legacy, and watching his sons serve in law enforcement and the military. This is a powerful look into the intersection of art, law enforcement, and human resilience. 🎨🕵️♂️🇺🇸 ⸻
💙 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 ⸻
Get his books:
“Creating Digital Faces for Law enforcement”
https://amzn.to/4oqDsXY
"Sketchcops: True Stories from Those Who Draw the Line Against Crime"
https://amzn.to/48ABu2y
"SketchCop: Drawing a Line Against Crime"
https://amzn.to/4nOkOcu

Friday Jun 27, 2025
Friday Jun 27, 2025
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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On June 27, we honor the life and legacy of Deputy William H. “Bill” Butler Jr., whose End of Watch marked the beginning of a mission we continue today. In this powerful anniversary episode, we reflect on who Bill was, the values he lived by, and the lasting impact of his service. You’ll hear stories from those who knew him best, and learn why this podcast was created to carry his spirit forward. This isn’t just a remembrance—it’s a call to action. To serve with heart. To show up for each other. To never forget. ⸻ 💙 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 an interview: 🔗 https://8158podcast.com/contact-us 📢 Join our community & get exclusive content: 🔗 http://Patreon.com/8158podcast ⸻ #BillButler #EOW #EndOfWatch #ThinBlueLine #HonorTheFallen #8158Podcast #StoriesOfSacrifice #PoliceLegacy #LineOfDuty #LawEnforcementPodcast #LegacyLivesOn








