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PODCAST · health

No One Fights Alone

by Brad Shepherd & Kevin Thacker

The No One Fights Alone Podcast is a first responder mental health and culture podcast created to have the conversations that too often go unspoken in the world of service. Built for law enforcement officers, firefighters, paramedics, dispatchers, military veterans, and other public safety professionals, the show explores the real psychological, emotional, and cultural challenges that come with protecting others—often at the cost of your own well-being. Hosted by Brad Shepherd and Kevin Thacker, the podcast is rooted in lived experience, professional insight, and deep respect for first responder culture. Each episode goes beyond surface-level discussions of stress and burnout to address the realities of trauma exposure, cumulative stress, moral injury, identity loss, leadership pressure, family strain, and the long-term impact of high-stakes careers. These are not abstract conversations—they are grounded in real stories from t

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Episodes

  1. Beyond PTSD: First Responder Mental Health, Therapy & What Actually Helps | Dr. Matt Stiehm

    First responder mental health is about much more than PTSD. In this episode of the No One Fights Alone Podcast, Kevin Thacker sits down with Dr. Matt Stiehm, a therapist and former law enforcement professional, for a candid conversation about mental health in law enforcement, the barriers that…

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  2. Navigating the Media Storm: Leadership, Crisis Communication & Officer Wellness with Chris Prochut

    When a police department becomes the center of a national news story, how do leaders respond? In this episode of the No One Fights Alone Podcast, Kevin Thacker sits down with former police commander Chris Prochut to discuss leadership during crisis, managing intense media attention, and the...

  3. The Truth About First Responder Mental Health | Angry Viking Therapist

    In this episode of the No One Fights Alone (NOFA) Podcast, Brad sits down with Dr. Trevor Wilkins — widely known as the “Angry Viking Therapist” — for a direct, no-nonsense conversation about mental health, trauma recovery, and what it actually takes to heal in high-stress professions. With a...

  4. The Breaking Point: A Firefighter’s Story of Trauma, Burnout & Survival

    In this episode of the No One Fights Alone (NOFA) Podcast, Kevin sits down with Sheridan Rhine — firefighter, paramedic, and Firefighter Training Instructor — for a raw and deeply personal conversation about trauma, resilience, and the reality of life in the first responder world. Sheridan shares...

  5. Mental Health meets Legal Protection: join this fascinating conversation with Lady Law Shield, Bridget Truxillo, JD

    In this episode of the No One Fights Alone (NOFA) Podcast, Brad sits down with Bridget Truxillo, JD — former Deputy Sheriff, SWAT team member, and founder of Lady Law Shield — for a powerful conversation about law enforcement, leadership, and the often-overlooked legal pressures first responders...

  6. Embracing the Call to Serve: A Journey Through Law Enforcement and Personal Growth

    In this episode of the No One Fights Alone (NOFA) Podcast, Brad sits down with Commander Eric Tong, an 18-year law enforcement veteran and founder of Blue Grit Wellness, for a powerful conversation about leadership, identity, and personal growth within the law enforcement profession. Eric shares...

  7. Jennafer Kemph, law enforcement officer

    In this episode of the No One Fights Alone (NOFA) Podcast, Brad sits down with Jennafer Kemph, a career law enforcement officer serving in a large metropolitan Texas agency, for a powerful and personal conversation about resilience, recovery, and the fight back to health and wellness. Jennafer...

  8. Firefighter Johnny Lawton discusses his journey to health

    In this episode of the No One Fights Alone (NOFA) Podcast, Brad sits down with firefighter Johnny Lawton for an honest and laid-back conversation about recovery, resilience, and rebuilding a life after facing personal struggles. Johnny brings a lifetime of service and experience to the…

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  9. Erin Nugent, Former LEO, current FF Spouse, Mental Health coach and podcaster

    In this episode of the No One Fights Alone (NOFA) Podcast, Brad sits down with Erin Nugent for a fascinating and heartfelt conversation about first responder wellness, mental health advocacy, and finding purpose after a career in public safety. Originally from Australia, Erin began her career in...

  10. 150th Episode of No One Fights Alone Podcast

    In this milestone 150th episode of the No One Fights Alone (NOFA) Podcast, Austin, Kevin, and Brad come together for a reflective and honest conversation about the journey of building a platform dedicated to first responder and veteran mental health. What started as a mission to normalize...

  11. Dr Shaina Smith with Smith Psychological Services

    In this episode of the No One Fights Alone (NOFA) Podcast, Brad sits down with Dr. Smith for a thoughtful and practical conversation about the psychological realities of working in public safety. Dr. Smith specializes in police and public safety psychology and has worked extensively with patrol...

  12. Cinnamon Reiheld

    In this episode of the No One Fights Alone (NOFA) Podcast, Brad sits down with therapist and national presenter Cinnamon Reiheld for an in-depth conversation about trauma, childhood experiences, and the unique mental health challenges facing first responders. Cinnamon brings extensive clinical...

  13. Brannon Hicks with Here Tomorrow

    In this episode of the No One Fights Alone (NOFA) Podcast, Brad sits down with retired law enforcement officer Brannon Hicks for a powerful and deeply personal conversation about suicide prevention, peer support, and building community for first responders and veterans. After a career in law...

  14. Navigating Family Dynamics in First Responder Households w/ Maren Eberhard

    In this episode of the No One Fights Alone (NOFA) Podcast, Brad and Maren take a deeper look at an often overlooked part of first responder and veteran life — the family at home. While public safety professionals are trained to run toward danger and provide physical protection, the emotional…

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  15. Introduction to new Co-Host, Kevin Thacker

    Brad welcomes Kevin Thacker to the NOFA Podcast microphone for his first full conversation as co-host. In this episode, Kevin shares the path that led him into the behavioral health and recovery field, the experiences that shaped his passion for helping others, and why he has chosen to dedicate…

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  16. Season 6 Opener

    Austin and Brad officially welcome new co-host Kevin Thacker to the No One Fights Alone (NOFA) Podcast in this powerful season kickoff episode focused on first responder mental health, trauma recovery, and leadership resilience. Kevin joins the show bringing years of experience in behavioral...

  17. Five Alarm Charm with Zach Adolphi & Stacey Krantz

    In this episode of the No One Fights Alone podcast, hosts Brad Shepherd and Max Morgan welcome Stacy Krantz and her son Zach Adolphi. They discuss Zach's journey into firefighting, inspired by a family legacy of service, and Stacy's passion for jewelry design, particularly in creating meaningful...

  18. Charles "Chip" Huth on Transforming Leadership in Law Enforcement

    Summary In this episode, Brad Shepherd interviews Chip, a retired SWAT commander, who shares his journey through law enforcement, emphasizing the importance of relationships, leadership, and personal growth. Chip discusses the challenges faced in transforming a troubled SWAT team, the impact of...

  19. From Soldier to Counselor: James Montgomery's Journey

    In this episode, James Montgomery shares his journey from a challenging childhood in an abusive home to a successful military career and his transition into mental health counseling. He discusses the importance of addressing mental health stigma, the holistic approach of his counseling service…

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  20. Building It Right, Not Fast: Chateau’s Next Chapter With Austin Pederson

    In this episode, Brad Shepherd, Ben Pearson, and Austin discuss the growth and expansion of Chateau, a residential treatment facility for first responders. They delve into the logistics of the new facility, the importance of maintaining a supportive environment, and the critical role of quality...

  21. Lessons Written in Blood: Matt Garcia on Officer Wellness and Survival | Police Week 2025

    Matt Garcia, a retired Connecticut State Police Lieutenant and now Deputy Director of Officer Safety and Wellness at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, joins Brad and Max for an unfiltered conversation about the real struggles behind the badge. Matt opens up about the early...

  22. Choosing My Tomorrow: Jodie Baulkham’s Journey Through Grief, Resilience, and Hope

    In this deeply moving episode of the No One Fights Alone Podcast, Brad and Ben sit down with Jodie Baulkham, author of 'Choosing My Tomorrow: Surviving Murder, Navigating Mental Health, and Harnessing the Power of Choice', to explore her extraordinary story of loss, healing, and growth. Jodie…

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  23. Honoring Service: Reflections on Police Week, Growth, and Mental Wellness

    In this episode of the No One Fights Alone Podcast, Brad and Max share powerful reflections as Police Week and Firefighter Memorial Week approach. They explore the deep meaning behind honoring fallen heroes, the importance of supporting those who are still serving, and how setting boundaries is a...

  24. Behind the Ride-Along: When a Therapist Sits in the Passenger Seat

    In this episode of No One Fights Alone, Ben and Brad dive into what it means to really show up for others and ourselves. Through stories of ride-alongs with law enforcement (not as a criminal, we promise!) and firefighters across the country, Ben, as a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW),...

  25. The Responder Feedback Loop: Managing Stress and Anxiety with Josh Grandinetti

    In this deeply resonant episode of the No One Fights Alone Podcast, Brad, Max, and Josh sit down with recently retired Fire Captain Josh Grandinetti—founder of Foundation Fortified—to explore how mindfulness can become a lifeline for first responders. From the invisible toll of trauma and the...

  26. Talk to Them: Heidi Chance on the Frontlines of Human Trafficking

    In this powerful episode of No One Fights Alone, Co-Hosts Brad Shepherd & Max Morgan sit down with retired Detective Heidi Chance, who shares the raw, real, and often heartbreaking realities of human trafficking. With over two decades in law enforcement, Heidi opens up about working undercover…

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  27. Slowing Down to Show Up: Stacey Stocking on the Power of Connection

    In this heartfelt and deeply honest episode of No One Fights Alone, co-hosts Brad and Ben welcome back therapist, recreational specialist, and longtime friend of the Chateau community, Stacey Stocking. With wisdom, warmth, and a touch of humor, Stacey shares how outdoor adventures, pickleball...

  28. Ben & Brad on Why Now Is the Time to Say What Matters

    In this heartfelt and deeply human episode of No One Fights Alone, Ben and Brad reflect on recent experiences with aging parents, fatherhood, and what it means to have hard conversations before it’s too late. Through personal stories, laughter, and raw honesty, they explore generational values,...

  29. From Chaos to Connection: Victoria Newman on Law Enforcement Marriages

    On this episode of the No One Fights Alone podcast, Host Brad Shepherd and Co-Host Ben Pearson sit down with Victoria M. Newman, a best-selling author, law enforcement advocate, and Founder of How2LoveOurCops. With a deep passion for supporting law enforcement families, Victoria shares her…

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  30. Strengthening the Blue Line: Vance Row’s Path to Resilience

    Host Brad Shepherd and Co-Host Max Morgan are joined by Vance Row on this No One Fights Alone podcast episode. Together, they dive into Vance’s journey from law enforcement to yoga instruction, exploring how his personal struggles with mental health, trauma, and recovery led him to a new mission:...

  31. The Power of Resilience: Guest Adam Davis on Faith, Trauma, and Healing

    On this episode of the No One Fights Alone podcast, Host Brad Shepherd and Co-Host Max Morgan sit down with Adam Davis to discuss his powerful journey, the mental and spiritual resilience of first responders, and how his work is changing lives across the country. Author | Speaker | First…

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  32. NOFA & Pat McMonigle: A Life of Service, A Battle for Survival

    Pat McMonigle spent 19 years in the FBI, serving as an analyst, Special Agent, and Field Supervisor. He investigated national security crimes, led hostage negotiations, and worked on the Joint Terrorism Task Force, earning 24 commendations, including the Combat Theater Award for his 2017…

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  33. Answering the Call: Surviving Trauma and Finding Hope with Deborah Green

    With over three decades of dedicated service in law enforcement communications and military operations, Deborah Green has spent her life protecting and supporting those on the front lines. Her career began in 1986 with the California Army National Guard, where she served as a Communications...

  34. Siobhan McTighe

    We are joined by Sergeant Siobhan McTighe, an 18-year law enforcement veteran, serving the majority of her career as a Major Crimes Detective. She is currently employed as the first female Sergeant in the history of her police department, in Windsor, Colorado. Sergeant McTighe is the mother of 2...

  35. Lilly Bodway

    Join us as we visit with Lilly Bodway, a retired Phoenix PD officer and US Air Force veteran. As Lilly says ... former cop, former airman, former punk, rocker and motorcycle rider… Gonna stray. Now entrepreneur, up-and-coming couture designer…still off her rocker.

  36. Chad Ballestrazze: Active-Duty Army Officer & Founder of Beyond the Trek

    Join us as we visit with Chad Ballestrazze. Chad is an Active-Duty Army Officer with 18 years of service in both Conventional and Special Operations Formations. Chad entered the U.S. Army in 2007 as a Cavalry Scout and served until his selection into the Special Operations Civil Affairs branch in...

  37. Dan Sundahl: First Responder, Artist & Therapist

    Daniel Sundahl (DanSun) is an amazing, published artist and writer with four (4) art books produced of his works. Articles of his work are featured in several international publications, and his art is recognized and exhibited worldwide. Daniel is a registered counseling therapist with the…

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  38. Dr. Evan Peskin - Ketamine Discussion

    Brad is joined by Dr. Peskin, the cofounder and medical director of Sanctuary Healthcare, a concierge private practice specializing in ketamine infusions for mental health and chronic pain. He has published and lectured regarding Ketamine and the growth of its recognition and utilization. He...

  39. New Co-Hosts for Season 5: Ben Pearson & Max Morgan

    Season 5 opener with introducing new season co-hosts, Max Morgan and Ben Pearson. Looking forward to having a great season for the No One Fights Alone Podcast with two fantastic individuals who have a heart and passion to bring a good message of hope to you, our listeners.

  40. Co-Host Austin Pederson's new chapter

    Austin & Brad have a candid conversation about the No One Fights Alone podcast as he takes a step back from the co-host role. Austin discusses why but also what his vision for the podcast is and how it has become more than what that vision was. We hope to see Austin back as a stand in host. Join…

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  41. 2024 Podcast Season Closeout w/Ben, Austin & Brad

    Ben joins Austin & Brad to closeout Season 4 and the 2024 year with a good talk on the hurdles and hardships of the holiday season. We also discuss the gratitude we have for all the loyal listeners that took time out of their day to listen to our podcast. Thank you so much to all of you!!! Have a...

  42. Veteran Danny O'Neel talks about losing freinds and his passion to save his brothers & sisters from suicide

    Danny O’Neel was born and raised in Northern California. Signing up for the Army on 9/11 as a Forward Observer at 19, the US Army sent Though the first tour was mostly uneventful, the second trip to Sadr City was a deadly year. Nine of Danny’s brothers lost their lives that year. Sadly, 15…

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  43. Austin & Brad discuss Recovery

    Austin celebrated another milestone in his recovery. Brad asks Austin wisdom of the challenges he has faced in his journey. Austin talks about one of his most powerful lessons in his recovery journey: honesty. Austin also opens up to a very dear family topic. Tune in to hear a great conversation!

  44. LEO Marriage of Garret and Summer Dutson

    Garrett and Summer Dutson join us to discuss the impact of a Line of Duty Loss of a partner on their marriage and family. Garrett and Summer go into detail on the grief of their loss and how deeply this impacted their marriage.

  45. Scott Medlin with 10 Code Mindset

    We visit with Law Enforcement and Marine Corps Veteran | National Presenter | Podcast Host | YouTube Creator to talk about his passion for helping his brothers and sisters stay healthy. Scott speaks openly about PTSD, Substance Use and other issues related to the challenge veterans and law...

  46. Bonnie Eckman, Sensory Specialist, with After Action

    Bonnie Eckman, with has over a decade of experience in mental health and addiction recovery, Bonnie specializes in developing trauma-informed, sensory-based programs for first responders. She identified sensory input as a basic survival tool underutilized for self-regulation, mindfulness, and...

  47. Behind the Badge: Fostering First Responder Wellness with Mike Berg

    We sit down with Mike Berg, former Parowan Police Chief and current advocate with FOP Wellness. Mike opens up about his career in law enforcement, the importance of family, and his personal journey with mental health. He shares how his struggles shaped his approach to supporting others in the…

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  48. Therapist Brooke Greenig

    We have Brooke Greenig with us from River District Counseling in Yankton, SD to discuss her passion for veterans & first responders. Brooke has a master’s degree is specialized in military social work, an educational track where she was able explore evidence-based methods for helping those who…

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  49. Chateau's own Ben Pearson & Danny Warner discuss residential treatment

    Austin sits down with Chateau's own Ben & Danny to give the listeners a deep perspective on what Residential Treatment level of care really means clinically, non-clinically and the culture of this level of care. Further discussion delves into the differences in the various levels of treatment…

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  50. Filmmaker Conrad Weaver on the Movie PTSD911

    Filmmaker Conrad Weaver discusses his new documentary film, PTSD911. This film tells this story from first hand accounts with first responders themselves. The discussions traverses the incredibly difficult journey of being a first responder. Conrad also discusses how this has impacted him as a...

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

The No One Fights Alone Podcast is a first responder mental health and culture podcast created to have the conversations that too often go unspoken in the world of service. Built for law enforcement officers, firefighters, paramedics, dispatchers, military veterans, and other public safety professionals, the show explores the real psychological, emotional, and cultural challenges that come with protecting others—often at the cost of your own well-being.

Hosted by Brad Shepherd and Kevin Thacker, the podcast is rooted in lived experience, professional insight, and deep respect for first responder culture. Each episode goes beyond surface-level discussions of stress and burnout to address the realities of trauma exposure, cumulative stress, moral injury, identity loss, leadership pressure, family strain, and the long-term impact of high-stakes careers. These are not abstract conversations—they are grounded in real stories from t

HOSTED BY

Brad Shepherd & Kevin Thacker

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does No One Fights Alone have?

No One Fights Alone currently has 156 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is No One Fights Alone about?

The No One Fights Alone Podcast is a first responder mental health and culture podcast created to have the conversations that too often go unspoken in the world of service. Built for law enforcement officers, firefighters, paramedics, dispatchers, military veterans, and other public safety...

How often does No One Fights Alone release new episodes?

No One Fights Alone publishes regularly with 156 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.

Where can I listen to No One Fights Alone?

You can listen to No One Fights Alone on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts No One Fights Alone?

No One Fights Alone is created and hosted by Brad Shepherd & Kevin Thacker.
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