8158 Podcast: Stories of Sacrifice

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

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

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.

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

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. 

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 story of resilience, survival, and finding hope even after the flames die down. #FirstResponderStories #MentalHealthMatters #FirefighterLife #8158Podcast

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 into his childhood, the fire service that shaped him, and the explosion that would change his life forever. 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 story of resilience, survival, and finding hope even after the flames die down. #FirstResponderStories #MentalHealthMatters #FirefighterLife #8158Podcast

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 shifts with limited backup to the challenges of balancing fatherhood and duty, Leo shares his journey, his struggles, and his hopes for the future. Tune in for a raw and honest look at life behind the badge.

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.

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 transport, the ER, and fire rescue before a life-changing accident forced her into early medical retirement. But her passion for helping others didn’t stop there—she found a new calling as a dispatcher, becoming the voice behind the radio for multiple fire, EMS, and law enforcement agencies.   Part 2 drops March 9, 2025