The Line & The Oath

In this episode, Fred Hawkins—retired firefighter, retired law enforcement officer, and Senior Drum Major for Santa Fe and the State of New Mexico—breaks down what it really means to represent the fallen.With over two decades in the fire service and 26 years in law enforcement, Fred has seen service from every angle. But it’s his work in honor guard and Pipes & Drums that carries a different kind of weight—where precision, discipline, and tradition aren’t just expected… they’re demanded.This conversation goes beyond ceremony. It’s about the pressure of public service, the responsibility of honoring line-of-duty deaths, and why there are no second chances when it matters most.If you’ve ever questioned what service really means—or what it costs over time—this episode answers it.

In this episode, Richard shares what that kind of exposure actually does to you over time. From fatal scenes to the responsibility of reconstructing how and why they happened, this conversation goes beyond the job—it’s about the accumulation, the weight, and the things you don’t leave behind when the shift ends.We talk about the reality of trauma in first responders, the culture around mental health, and the gaps that still exist in support systems. Richard also speaks on his role in helping solve a 20-year-old double homicide and why moments like that don’t always bring the closure people expect.This isn’t just about service.It’s about what it turns into over time.

Jesse Torres has spent over two decades as a voice in the Dalhart community—but nothing prepared him for the loss of his son, firefighter Brendan Torres, in the line of duty on October 4, 2022.In this episode, Jesse shares what grief really looks like after the funeral ends, and how that loss reshaped his purpose. From advocating for stronger grief support to using his platform to serve first responders and the community, this conversation goes beyond remembrance—it’s about responsibility, legacy, and what comes next.We talk about the gaps in mental health and trauma support, the importance of community connection, and how something as small as a moment, a message, or even a symbol can carry lasting meaning. Jesse also speaks on honoring Brendan’s legacy through continued service and initiatives like a memorial scholarship.This isn’t just about loss. It’s about what you do with it.To support Brendan’s legacy, donations can be made to his memorial scholarship by sending checks to:Wellington State BankDalhart, TX 79022

In this episode, we sit down with Brandi Carswell, an EMS veteran with over 21 years on the front lines.This conversation goes beyond the job. We talk about the calls that stay with you, the mental toll that builds over time, and the reality of carrying trauma long after the shift ends. She opens up about her own struggles, what she’s learned along the way, and why supporting the mental health of first responders matters now more than ever.This is an honest look at what this job really takes—and what it takes to keep going.Nobody normal does this for a living.

In this episode, we sit down with retired NYPD detective Tom Smith for a real conversation on law enforcement, investigations, communication, and what it actually takes to work the job at every level. Tom shares how his journey began, how his career took him from street patrol to international counter-terrorism work, and what he learned from decades of policing in an ever-changing world. From investigative mindset and street-level experience to communication, leadership, and the evolution of crime over time, this episode is packed with insight for anyone who cares about service, discipline, and the realities of the job.Gold Shields PodcastThe Line and The Oath Website

In this episode, we sit down with Erica Roberts for a real conversation on dispatch, leadership, communication, and what it actually takes to stay calm when everything around you is chaos. Erica shares how her journey in emergency communications began, what she has learned from more than 20 years behind the headset, and why dispatchers play a far bigger role in public safety than most people realize. From high-pressure calls and training mindset to the disconnect between dispatch and the field, this episode is packed with insight for anyone who cares about service, leadership, and the unseen side of emergency response.Podcast- LifeLine911

In this episode, we sit down with Bill Owen for a real conversation on honor guard, leadership, discipline, and what it actually takes to perform at a high level. Bill shares how his journey began, how he ended up teaching drill and ceremonies around the world, and why standards, culture, and the little details matter more than most people think. From training mindset to team dynamics to the meaning behind doing things right, this episode is packed with insight for anyone who cares about excellence, service, and leading with purpose.Website- https://www.competitive-outcomes.com/

In this episode, we talk honor guard, discipline, and what it truly means to carry the standard. Using insight from Doug Swartz the commander of the National Honor Guard Academy, we break down the repetition, precision, pride, and emotional weight behind the role. People often see the final product, but not the work, leadership, and responsibility it takes to honor someone the way they deserve.National Honor Guard Academy Website- https://nationalhonorguardacademy.comThe Line and The Oath Website- www.thelineandtheoath.com

Welcome to the very first episode of The Line & The Oath. In this pilot episode, we introduce the rebrand, share what this podcast stands for, and talk about what listeners can expect moving forward. We break down the meaning behind The Line & The Oath and why this name represents service, sacrifice, leadership, identity, and the commitment behind the calling. We also share a personal update on where we are in life right now and the vision we have for this show. This podcast will feature real conversations with first responders, active military, and veterans, while exploring leadership, culture, humor, and the real-life experiences that shape those who serve.Website- thelineandtheoath.com