Seven Points Podcast

In this episode of Seven Points, hosts Warren Trent and Sgt. Kameron Lee sit down with longtime DPS employee Charlie Hopkins to chat about his resilience, wellness, and personal growth. Recorded at the DPS Wellness Center, Charlie shares his journey from aspiring child psychologist to state trooper, SWAT operator, and law enforcement tech specialist. Charlie shares a life-changing incident when he was hit by a vehicle, leading to a long recovery that changed his view on health and fitness. That experience, combined with later career challenges, ignited a lasting commitment to physical and mental wellness. He discusses how consistent training, strength work, and even stepping outside his comfort zone with yoga have helped him stay grounded and resilient. The conversation highlights the importance of simply showing up, breaking through intimidation, and using available resources to improve overall well-being. Charlie’s candid, often humorous storytelling underscores a deeper message: fitness isn’t about perfection, it’s about persistence. His story serves as both motivation and proof that no matter your starting point, taking that first step can lead to lasting change.

In this episode of Seven Points, hosts Warren Trent and Sgt. Kameron Lee sit down with Health & wellness coach Erica Martzen to explore the critical role of physical and mental wellness in public safety. Broadcasting from the DPS Wellness Center, the conversation highlights how fitness goes beyond the gym—connecting movement, breath, and mindset.Erica shares her journey from a small-town upbringing in Pennsylvania to joining DPS, bringing a passion for yoga and holistic health. She explains how yoga is accessible to everyone, regardless of experience or fitness level, and emphasizes its benefits for strength, flexibility, injury prevention, and stress management. The discussion breaks down common misconceptions, reassuring listeners that yoga is adaptable, practical, and grounded in simple practices like breathing and awareness.The episode also highlights DPS’s expanding wellness program, including yoga classes, personalized coaching, and statewide outreach efforts to support both sworn and professional staff. With a focus on inclusivity and sustainability, Erica’s approach encourages individuals to take that first step toward better health—physically, mentally, and emotionally—no matter where they are in their journey.

In this energetic episode of Seven Points, hosts Warren Trent and Sgt. Kameron Lee take the show on the road to the DPS Wellness Center, where they sit down with Deborah Goodwin, a longtime DPS employee and passionate wellness coach. Blending humor with heartfelt insight, Deborah shares her unique journey from elementary school teacher to marathon runner to fitness advocate within the agency.With 18 years at DPS, Deborah brings both experience and relatability to her role. She opens up about her own transformation, including overcoming weight challenges and discovering the power of strength training. As a Boston Marathon qualifier and ultra-distance runner, she offers a perspective that combines mental toughness, discipline, and the importance of finding what works for each individual.The conversation highlights the agency’s growing commitment to wellness and the importance of making fitness accessible and non-intimidating for everyone. Deborah emphasizes that there is no one-size-fits-all approach, encouraging employees to take that first step, ask questions, and build confidence through education and support.From motivation and accountability to practical tips on exercise and nutrition, this episode delivers both inspiration and actionable advice. It is a fun and informative look at how DPS is empowering its people to live healthier, stronger lives—one step at a time.

In this episode of Seven Points, hosts Warren Trent and Sgt. Kameron Lee sit down inside the DPS Employee Health & Wellness Center with special guest Joe Carson, one of the agency’s new wellness coaches. Joe shares his powerful personal journey, including how he lost 180 pounds through discipline, education, and a commitment to sustainable lifestyle changes. That transformation sparked a nearly 25-year career in health and fitness, where he has helped hundreds of people achieve lasting results.Joe discusses the mission behind DPS’s expanded wellness initiative and how it aims to support employees across the state with personalized fitness and nutrition guidance. From building custom workout plans to offering one-on-one coaching and group classes, the program is designed to meet employees wherever they are in their journey, whether they are just starting out or looking to improve performance.The conversation highlights common barriers to success, including misinformation and lack of support, while emphasizing the importance of education, accountability, and mindset. Joe also addresses how to overcome intimidation in a gym environment and encourages employees to take advantage of the free resources available to them.This episode offers practical insight, motivation, and a behind-the-scenes look at how DPS is investing in the long-term health and well-being of its workforce.

In this episode of Seven Points, hosts Warren Trent and Sgt. Kameron Lee take the podcast on location to a working hangar at Falcon Field to talk about one of the fastest-growing technologies in law enforcement. Their guest is Sgt. Brian Hon, Aviation UAS Program Manager for the Arizona Department of Public Safety.Sgt. Hon shares his journey from growing up in Tucson to serving in law enforcement for more than two decades. Along the way, he describes how a career that began in patrol and the Vehicular Crimes Unit eventually led him to pioneer DPS’s drone program. What started with a single off-the-shelf drone used to document crash scenes has grown into a statewide program that supports investigations, tactical operations, disaster response, and public safety missions.Listeners will learn how drones are helping troopers map crash scenes in minutes instead of hours, locate suspects during searches, assist SWAT operations, and safely assess hazardous situations. Sgt. Hon also explains how drones were deployed during major flooding in Globe, helping crews search damaged areas and assess infrastructure.The conversation also addresses privacy concerns and the strict policies that guide drone use. Sgt. Hon makes it clear that drones are response tools designed to improve safety for officers and the public.It is a fascinating look at how emerging technology is transforming modern policing in Arizona.

In this episode of Seven Points, hosts Warren Trent and Sgt. Kameron Lee sit down with Lt. Col. Jason Leonard, Assistant Director of the Arizona Department of Public Safety’s Criminal Investigations Division, for an in-depth conversation about the critical work happening behind the scenes to keep Arizona’s communities safe.Lt. Col. Leonard shares his personal journey into law enforcement, from his early years in rural Northern Arizona and service near the Navajo Nation to leading one of the most complex investigative divisions in the state. He discusses how his diverse career experiences, ranging from highway patrol and SWAT leadership to large-scale special events, shaped his leadership philosophy and commitment to mentorship.Listeners are given an inside look at CID’s four major bureaus, including intelligence, gang enforcement, drug investigations, and major crimes. The conversation highlights the division’s role in combating fentanyl trafficking, dismantling organized criminal networks, investigating road-rage shootings, supporting local agencies, and deploying specialized SWAT and bomb squad resources statewide.The episode also explores how modern investigative technology such as license plate readers, ballistic databases, and community-provided digital evidence helps solve serious crimes and prevent future violence.This episode offers a powerful reminder of the dedication, innovation, and teamwork required to protect Arizona, and why the men and women of CID truly represent the best of the best.Learn more about the Arizona Department of Public Safety: https://www.azdps.gov/department-information

In this engaging and personal episode of Seven Points, hosts Warren Trent and Sgt. Kameron Lee speaks with Lt. Col. Deston Coleman, Deputy Director of the Arizona Department of Public Safety, about leadership, legacy, and the vital role of wellness in law enforcement. With more than three decades of service, Lt. Col. Coleman reflects on growing up in a DPS family, following in his father’s footsteps, and how his early years working in rural Arizona shaped his leadership style. He shares candid insight into how DPS has evolved, from limited equipment and working solo in remote districts to today’s advanced technology and statewide operations. The heart of the episode focuses on the agency’s groundbreaking wellness initiatives. Lt. Col. Coleman explains DPS’s commitment to mental, physical, and emotional health through clinician visits, fitness and nutrition support, and new reprieve programs designed to help employees reset, recover, and thrive. He also addresses the stigma surrounding mental health, emphasizing that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how healthy employees contribute to creating safer communities, stronger families, and a more resilient department. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about leadership, first responder wellness, and the future of public safety.

In this informative episode of Seven Points, hosts Warren Trent and Sgt. Kameron Lee welcome Christy Shafer, Records Supervisor for the Arizona Department of Public Safety’s Fingerprint Clearance Card Unit. With a background in nuclear medicine and a passion for public service, Christy shares her journey into DPS and offers a behind-the-scenes look at the vital work her team does to protect vulnerable populations across Arizona.Listeners will gain valuable insights into the fingerprint clearance card process, including the differences between IVP and non-IVP cards, common misconceptions, and how to avoid delays. Christy explains how the unit processes nearly 230,000 applications annually, emphasizing the importance of accuracy, digital submissions, and using the Public Service Portal (PSP.azdps.gov) to streamline the experience. She also discusses the role of the Arizona Board of Fingerprinting in appeal cases and the impact of strict background checks.With warmth and clarity, Christy highlights the dedication of her team and the significance of their work in enabling safe employment across education, healthcare, and other sectors. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the clearance card process or curious about the unsung heroes behind Arizona’s public safety infrastructure.

In this episode of Seven Points, hosts Warren Trent and Sgt. Kameron Lee sit down with Ethan Jones, supervisor of the Arizona Department of Public Safety’s Concealed Weapons Permit (CCW) Unit, to demystify the CCW application process and highlight key updates every gun owner should know. Ethan shares his journey from military service to public safety, and offers expert guidance on navigating CCW requirements, whether you're an Arizona resident or applying from out of state.Listeners will learn about the benefits of obtaining a CCW—even in a constitutional carry state—including enhanced education, legal clarity, and interstate reciprocity. Ethan breaks down the differences between paper and online applications, emphasizing the speed, security, and convenience of the digital route. He also addresses common misconceptions, federal prohibitors, and the importance of accurate criminal history records.With over 75,000 permits processed annually by a dedicated team of just 15 professionals, this episode sheds light on the behind-the-scenes work that keeps Arizona’s CCW system running smoothly. Whether you're a first-time applicant or renewing your permit, this conversation offers practical tips, valuable insights, and a deeper appreciation for the professional staff supporting public safety across the state.

In this compelling episode of Seven Points, hosts Warren Trent and Sgt. Kameron Lee sit down with Arizona radio icon Mike Broomhead for an unfiltered conversation about his unconventional journey into broadcasting, his deep-rooted support for law enforcement, and the life experiences that shaped his voice behind the mic. From growing up in rural Ohio and Southwest Florida to chasing dreams as a bull rider in Arizona, Mike shares how tragedy—the loss of his brother in Iraq—unexpectedly launched his media career.Listeners will hear behind-the-scenes stories from Mike’s interviews with political heavyweights like Senator John McCain and President Trump, as well as sports legends and local heroes. He reflects on his ride-alongs with DPS troopers, the evolution of radio into a multimedia platform, and the importance of honoring both sworn and professional staff in law enforcement. With humor, humility, and heartfelt anecdotes—including getting a speeding ticket from a trooper he later honored—Mike offers a rare glimpse into the man behind the microphone.This episode is a celebration of service, storytelling, and the power of connection. Whether you're a fan of radio, law enforcement, or just great conversation, this one’s not to be missed.

In this powerful episode of Seven Points, hosts Warren Trent and Sgt. Kameron Lee welcome Kelsey Commisso, Arizona’s State Alerts Coordinator, for an in-depth look at the life-saving alert systems that protect vulnerable populations across the state. From Amber and Blue Alerts to the newly expanded Safe Alert and the groundbreaking Turquoise Alert, Kelsey breaks down the criteria, processes, and purpose behind each activation—emphasizing the critical role of community engagement and interagency collaboration.Listeners will learn how alerts are triggered, the rigorous steps involved before activation, and how legislative changes have broadened the scope of coverage, especially for individuals with cognitive disabilities and missing Indigenous persons. Kelsey shares her personal connection to the mission, her background in law enforcement, and the emotional impact of helping reunite families through these alerts.With over 140 Safe Alerts activated annually and a recovery rate nearing 98%, this episode highlights the importance of public awareness and the integrity of the alert system. Whether you’ve received a notification on your phone or wondered how these alerts work, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the people and passion driving Arizona’s emergency alert infrastructure.

In this episode of the Seven Points podcast, hosts Warren Trent and Sgt. Kameron Lee sit down with Chaplain Rick Derbyshire to explore his inspiring journey from Southern California to a life of service in law enforcement chaplaincy. Rick shares how his upbringing, shaped by family health challenges and a strong spiritual foundation, led him to pursue ministry and ultimately dedicate over 21 years to supporting law enforcement personnel.Listeners will hear about Rick’s transition from pastoral leadership to volunteer chaplaincy, his early work with the LA County Sheriff's Department, and his deep commitment to building trust and emotional support within the Arizona Department of Public Safety. He emphasizes the importance of presence, confidentiality, and proactive care in the chaplain role, offering insight into how chaplains help troopers navigate trauma, grief, and personal challenges.Whether responding to critical incidents or simply checking in, Rick’s passion for service shines through. The episode also highlights the growing need for more chaplains across Arizona and how retired law enforcement or clergy can get involved.Special thanks to the AZDPS Heritage Museum for providing a meaningful space to produce this episode.

In this heartfelt episode of Seven Points, hosts Warren Trent and Sgt. Kameron Lee sit down with Brian Hirst, a dedicated member of the Arizona Department of Public Safety’s Employee Assistance Program—and his four-legged partner, Maui, a certified facility dog. Brian shares his journey from growing up in Dana Point, California, to becoming a dispatcher at AZDPS, and now serving in a vital wellness role supporting both sworn and civilian staff.Listeners will gain insight into the emotional toll of dispatch work, the power of peer support, and how Maui brings comfort and connection across the department. From high-stress 911 calls to quiet moments of healing, Brian and Maui’s story highlights the importance of mental health and the evolving culture of care within law enforcement.Whether you're part of the DPS family or simply curious about the unseen heroes behind the scenes, this episode offers a moving look at resilience, compassion, and the healing power of a wagging tail.Special thanks to the AZDPS Heritage Museum for allowing us to record this episode in such a meaningful and historic space.

In this episode of Seven Points, hosts Warren Trent and Sgt. Kameron Lee kicks off Season Two from the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) Heritage Museum, surrounded by historic relics that highlight the agency’s legacy. Their guest, Renee Gronski, an Employee Wellness Coordinator with DPS, shares her inspiring journey from elementary education to a career spanning decades in public safety. With a background in victim services, crisis management, and leadership, Renee brings a unique perspective to her role supporting the mental, emotional, and physical health of sworn and professional staff.Renee discusses the evolution of wellness programs in law enforcement, reflecting on how the culture has shifted from “just push through” to offering critical resources such as peer support, chaplain services, and counseling. She also explains how DPS extends wellness initiatives statewide and even provides support to families of employees, recognizing the impact of the profession beyond the workplace.This conversation underscores the importance of caring for those who serve, thereby ensuring healthier careers and better lives after retirement.A special thanks to the AZDPS Heritage Museum for hosting this episode and allowing the Seven Points team to record in such a meaningful setting.

In this episode of Seven Points, hosts Warren Trent and Sgt. Kameron Lee kicks off Season Two from the Arizona Department of Public Safety (AZDPS) Heritage Museum. Joined by a historic backdrop that includes the iconic 1931 Model A patrol car, they welcome Trooper Misty Van Tassel, AZDPS Employee Assistance Program (EAP) Coordinator, to share her journey and insights.Misty opens up about her Arizona roots, her family’s long history with AZDPS, and her decision to pursue a law enforcement career later in life. From starting at the academy at age 40 to patrolling Phoenix’s busiest night shifts, Misty brings firsthand experience of the challenges troopers face both on and off duty. Her unique background, which includes a master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling, has positioned her to lead wellness efforts across the department.Listeners will hear how the EAP and wellness programs are expanding to support employees in areas of mental, physical, and emotional health. Misty highlights available resources, peer support, and the importance of breaking stigma around seeking help.Seven Points thanks the AZDPS Heritage Museum (ahpdpsmuseum.org) for hosting this episode and supporting the conversation on employee wellness and resilience. s02e01

It’s hard to believe, but we’re already on Episode 18 of Seven Points! Join us as we wrap up Season 1 and welcome the new Public Information Supervisor, Sgt. Kameron Lee! In this episode, we’ll dive into Sgt. Lee’s experiences in the Highway Patrol Division, his previous time with the Public Affairs Unit (PAU), and how his career path has brought him full circle back to the PAU!

We’ve explored the AZDPS Aviation Bureau in two previous episodes—hearing from a paramedic and a fixed-wing pilot—but now it’s time to take to the skies with one of our helicopter pilots. Meet State Trooper/Pilot Kenan Bahadir, one of our rotary-wing (helicopter) pilots. In this episode, he shares the experiences that led him to this career path, along with another passion he brings to the job: using his camera skills and social media to promote the Department and our Aviation Bureau!

Most people take for granted that law enforcement radios will work whenever they’re needed. In reality, a dedicated team of technicians is working tirelessly behind the scenes to keep that vital communications equipment up and running. Enter Radio Tower Supervisor Zach Watzke! He and his team ensure the AZDPS—and many other government agencies across Arizona—have clear, reliable communication when it matters most. Tune in as Zach shares what led him to this career, what keeps him going, and much more.

As the primary agency responsible for patrolling and enforcing laws on Arizona's highways and interstates, AZDPS troopers regularly respond to major collisions involving serious injuries or fatalities. Depending on the circumstances, the involved driver(s) may face criminal charges, especially when impairment is involved. This is when our Vehicular Crimes Unit (VCU) detectives step in, utilizing a foundation of math and science to piece the evidence together, helping ensure justice for the victims. In this episode, Detective Zach Cousins talks about the methods utilized by our detectives and shares his experiences in VCU and throughout the department.

We've discussed our rescue helicopters on the show before, but did you know the AZDPS also operates a small fleet of fixed-wing airplanes?  From getting detectives to critical incident scenes to transporting the governor to her next event, this unit helps state employees save valuable time traveling all over Arizona. In this episode you’ll hear from one of our longest tenured state troopers, Frank Valenzuela, the chief fixed-wing pilot for AZDPS!

Detectives commonly work with squads of other detectives, but did you know they have another teammate who works alongside them every day in their cases?  Criminal Intelligence Analysts and Intelligence Research Specialists are core members of every investigative team, and Tracy Foster has been doing it for years. Hear her story as she talks about what these critical members of the AZDPS team do and how you can be an integral part of a criminal case without ever going to a police academy!

It is not secret that those who choose law enforcement as a career face risks regularly on the job.  There are a select few, though, who spend years in very specialized training to become members of one of the riskiest units in law enforcement - the bomb squad.  Join us as we have a conversation with AZDPS' currently longest-serving hazardous device technician, Sergeant Tony Vazquez!  Tony shares what it means to be a member of this elite unit, and what he did before he got here.  

Did you know the AZDPS operates multiple rescue helicopters statewide? In this episode we speak with Trooper Paramedic Mike Snyder, a longstanding crew member on our Ranger rescue helicopters. He shares what it takes to be a part of the AZDPS Aviation Bureau, his most memorable rescue, and life as a member of this elite unit. 

Most AZDPS troopers patrol in vehicles with doors and four wheels, but a select few are destined for a different kind of ride. 🏍️ From their vehicles to their uniforms, AZDPS motorcycle troopers—otherwise known as 'motors'—are truly set apart. Tune in to today’s episode as we chat with Trooper John Simon about the unique opportunities and challenges of being a motor!

In this episode of "Seven Points", we speak with Detective Henry Rodgers, a member of the AZDPS' elite Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team.  Trooper Rodgers comes with a wealth of experience both within SWAT as well as other areas with the AZDPS.  

Today, we talk to Sgt. Marc Snyder, currently a squad supervisor in the AZDPS' Major Incident Division (MID) who is tasked with investigating officer-involved shootings for agencies throughout the state.  Sgt. Snyder, like our other guests, has had experiences throughout the department and throughout the state.  Join as we discuss what brought him to the AZDPS and the MID.  

It's the episode that has been mentioned in almost every other episode...the AZDPS living legend, Captain Tony Mapp!  Join us as he discusses the groundbreaking roles he has had at our agency and the experiences that led him to where he is today.  

Join us as we discuss what life is like for new State Trooper Academy graduate, Trooper Kevin Bynum.  Kevin gives us insight into life in the hiring process, life in State Trooper Academy, and his time in field training so far.  

Join us as we talk to Sergeant Ken Norton about what it means to lead a fresh group of recruits hoping to become Arizona State Troopers.  Sgt. Norton shares expectations of the training staff and what recruits can expect while in the AZDPS State Trooper Academy.

Join us as we have a discussion with K9 Trooper Brandon Hainke.  Trooper Hainke discusses life with a furry partner and everything that it entails.  

Join us for our third episode of Seven Points, where we sit down and talk with Phoenix Communications Center Manager Jill Swanson.  Jill shares her experiences as a dispatcher and call taker with the department and the importance mental health plays in the daily life of dispatchers in public safety.  

Join us as we discuss what the daily life of a State Trooper entails while we interview Trooper Harkins, assigned to central Phoenix in the Highway Patrol Division.

Get to know the two hosts of the Seven Points podcast a little better as AZDPS Public Information Manager Warren Trent interviews Sergeant Eric Andrews and Detective Sherod Harris.

Welcome to our first episode of the Seven Points Podcast!  In this episode, we interview Arizona Department of Public Safety Director, Colonel Jeffrey Glover.