8158 Podcast: Stories of Sacrifice

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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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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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 about losing his mentor to cancer, his captain to a stroke, and a close lieutenant to suicide—all within a short time span. He also shares his diagnosis of MDD, later Bipolar Disorder, and how it’s impacted him as a responder and a human being. Through it all, Josh has remained committed to making a difference—and dreams of mentoring the next generation of EMS professionals. This episode is raw, honest, and a reminder that even in the darkest moments, there is still purpose to be found. Trigger Warning: This episode discusses suicide and mental health challenges.

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 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 therapies that helped, the nonprofit he started using music to help fellow veterans, and how he slowly found his way back to himself. Now back in uniform, Rob is on a mission to create a crisis negotiation unit—and his story is a reminder that healing is messy, but possible. ⸻
💙 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.
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Part 1: From Isolation to Iraq In 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—panic attacks, PTSD, and the mental health battles that followed. We also dive into his post-military journey, how his dream of becoming a paramedic was cut short by financial reality, and what led him to law enforcement in Albuquerque, NM. This first half sets the stage for a deep conversation about trauma, service, and the strength it takes to survive.
💙 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.
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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 mortar tubes and fueling operations, his time in combat left lasting physical and emotional wounds. After transitioning to the Air Guard as an F16 weapons specialist, Mick continued to serve his country from the skies. Post-military, he earned degrees in social science, focusing on the aftershock syndrome faced by veterans’ children. He then served with the Bureau of Land Management, flying helicopters into wildfires and leading live fire trainings—including during the 1988 Yellowstone fires. This is a powerful tribute to the cost of service, the battle for benefits, and the impact on family. Mick’s story is raw, real, and deeply American. Listen in and remember: freedom isn’t free. ⸻
💙 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.
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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.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
 Bonnie shares more about the behind-the-scenes work Boots on the Ground Alberta does to connect people with the right resources—whether it’s trauma therapy, support with Veterans Affairs, or simply having someone to talk to who gets it. We also talk about the role of chaplains, the importance of community donations, and what healing really looks like for those on the front lines. If you missed Part 1, go back and start there—then come back for this meaningful continuation of a story that matters.

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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Part 1: Episode Description In 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 powerful and how Boots on the Ground helps those navigating trauma, stress, and work-related injuries. From connecting individuals with province-wide resources to walking them through work compensation and therapy options, this episode is packed with insight and heart. Listen now and hear how this organization is making a real impact. Learn more about Boots on the Ground Alberta: 🔗 https://botgalberta.com/ ⸻
💙 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.
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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 up about the unseen battles dispatchers face, the toll of trauma, and why she’s using her voice to break the silence around mental health in public safety. With over 50 podcast appearances, her mission is clear: to make sure no one else suffers in silence. 💙 This episode is a must-listen for first responders, families, and anyone who wants to better understand the emotional toll behind the headset. ⸻
🔗 Links & Resources:
💙 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.
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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 what comes next.
💙 We talk mental health, female strength in first responder roles, and how one call can change everything. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like behind the scenes in EMS or how personal battles shape professional bravery—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 

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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Part 2: Purpose Beyond the Uniform After 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 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.
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Part 1: Jacob’s Journey In 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 connection have played a role in his healing.
💙 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