GOLD SHIELDS

Tom Smith/Dan Murphy

GOLD SHIELDS: TRUE CRIMES, TRUE STORIES, TRUE HEROES Welcome to Gold Shields, your ultimate source for true crime stories, real-life heroism, and military and law enforcement adventures. Hosted by the brave men and women who lived through these incredible moments, our channel takes you behind the scenes of dangerous missions, high-stakes investigations, and real-life stories that will leave you on the edge of your seat. We bring you exclusive, first-hand accounts from law enforcement officers and military veterans who have dedicated their lives to serving and protecting others.  Our channel offers you a unique "Back Stage Pass" to crime investigations, military operations, and the true grit it takes to bring justice to the world. Whether you’re a fan of true crime documentaries, military missions, or heroic stories, Gold Shields will deliver gripping tales of courage, dedication, and the heroes who risk everything to protect and serve. Tune in every week for new episodes, in-depth interviews, and exclusive content that highlights the incredible work of real-life heroes.

  1. 5d ago

    GOLD SHIELDS EPISODE 171: CIA SPY REVEALS HOW THE CIA HUNTS TERRORISTS | BOB DOUGHERTY

    We hope you enjoy this episode of Gold Shields, let us know how we did. The shadows are where wars are won... and where heroes are rarely recognized. For more than 25 years, CIA Operations Officer Bob Dougherty served on the front lines of America's hidden war, operating in some of the world's most dangerous countries. While the headlines focused on military operations, Bob was working deep inside the shadows, recruiting spies, developing high-value human intelligence (HUMINT) sources, penetrating terrorist networks, and preventing attacks before they could happen. This is the world very few people ever get to see. On this gripping episode of GOLD SHIELDS, Bob takes you behind the curtain of the Central Intelligence Agency, revealing how CIA case officers identify, recruit, and manage the human sources who provide the critical intelligence needed to stop terrorists, dismantle extremist organizations, and protect American lives across the globe. Discover what it takes to convince someone to risk everything to become a spy, the incredible psychological skills required to build trust with complete strangers, and the split-second decisions that can mean the difference between mission success and death. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Uncovering the CIA's true mission 02:30 - What motivated Bob Dougherty to join the CIA in the 1980s 04:45 - The role of patriotism in public service careers 07:10 - Differentiating signal intelligence and human intelligence 09:50 - Why human intelligence remains vital despite technological advances 12:30 - Developing sources: Building trust and relationships 15:20 - The operational dance: Approaching and recruiting human sources 18:05 - vetting and validating sources to ensure reliability 21:30 - Success stories: From Peru to counterterrorism efforts post-9/11 24:45 - The evolution of terrorism and challenges in modern intelligence 28:00 - Critical moments and the importance of intuition in field operation 31:30 - The dangers of solo operations and operational security 34:00 - The global landscape: China, Russia, Iran, and the rise of new threats 37:10 - Leadership impact on intelligence effectiveness 39:55 - Emerging technological threats: AI, drones, synthetic biology 43:05 - The importance of proactive intelligence in preventing catastrophe 46:15 - Current gaps and challenges in U.S. intelligence capabilities 49:05 - The rarity and value of freedom: A reminder of American exceptionalism 52:00 - Closing thoughts: Protecting the American Dream and national security SUBSCRIBE to Youtube.com/@GoldShields Follow GOLD SHIELDS on ALL Audio Podcast Platforms Visit us at https://thegoldshieldshow.com SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.instagram.com/thegoldshieldshow/ https://www.facebook.com/THEGOLDSHIELDSHOW/ linkedin.com/in/tom-smith-09676a22b

  2. Jul 17

    GOLD SHIELDS EPISODE 170: SEAL TEAM SIX TEAM LEADER REVEALS THE BIN LADEN RAID | ALEX WEST

    We hope you enjoy this episode of Gold Shields, let us know how we did. OPERATION NEPTUNE SPEAR | The SEAL Team Six Raid That Killed Usama Bin Laden On May 2, 2011, one of the most daring and historic military operations in modern history unfolded deep inside Abbottabad, Pakistan. Operation Neptune Spear ended the decade-long manhunt for the world's most wanted terrorist—the leader of Al-Qaeda, Usama Bin Laden. In this exclusive GOLD SHIELDS interview, former SEAL Team Six Team Leader Alex West takes you inside the mission that changed history forever. Hear the untold story from the man who led one of the assault teams during the raid, revealing what it was like to fly into hostile territory, breach the compound, confront the unknown, and execute one of the most dangerous missions ever carried out by U.S. Special Operations. This is far more than the story of one raid. Alex shares the extraordinary teamwork, leadership, split-second decision-making, and unwavering commitment that defined the operators who answered America's call on one unforgettable night. But the mission didn't end when the helicopters left Pakistan. Alex also speaks candidly about the hidden battle that many Special Operations warriors continue to fight long after combat ends. He discusses the devastating effects of PTSD and moral injury, the mental health challenges facing elite operators every day, and the promising breakthrough treatment with ibogaine that many veterans believe is changing—and saving—lives. Despite its growing success overseas, American veterans are still forced to leave the United States to receive this treatment as advocates continue pushing for its approval at home. This is an unforgettable conversation about courage, sacrifice, brotherhood, resilience, and hope.  The mission. The manhunt. The aftermath. The healing.          TIMESTAMPS:      (00:00) - Introduction and current updates in New York sports and personal  life (01:08) - The historic Osama bin Laden raid: origins and Alex West’s role(02:23) - The significance of the operation in military history(03:20) - How the mission came into focus after initial deployment in Afghanistan(04:42) - Building confidence and the risks of flying into Abbottabad(07:11) - Training and preparation for the precise raid(08:29) - The three-week planning process and contingency planning(09:52) - Handling unpredictable scenarios, such as helicopter crashes(12:36) - Flight in, emotional state, and the pressure of performance(16:37) - The psychological toll and the rush of executing the mission(18:15) - Reflection on the collective effort and the sense of payback(20:09) - The moment of victory and the decision to take bin Laden’s body(23:38) - Navigating the chaos of extraction and escape(27:44) - The intense firefight and clearing the target(28:13) - Debrief and verification of the target's death ('Geronimo call sign')(30:15) - Recognizing the team effort beyond individual heroism(34:29) - Returning home, relief, and the historic victory celebration(38:36) - The impact of the operation on the American psyche(43:26) - Alex West’s journey through mental health struggles and recovery(44:23) - Founding One More Wave to aid veterans through adaptive surfing(45:50) - Transition into mental health advocacy and therapeutic innovations(50:18) - The critical need for breakthrough treatments like Ibogaine(52:13) - Breaking societal stigma around mental health in high-stress professions(58:19) - Honoring service members and advocating for ongoing mental health support SUBSCRIBE to Youtube.com/@GoldShields Follow GOLD SHIELDS on ALL Audio Podcast Platforms Visit us at https://thegoldshieldshow.com SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.instagram.com/thegoldshieldshow/ https://www.facebook.com/THEGOLDSHIELDSHOW/ linkedin.com/in/tom-smith-09676a22b

  3. Jul 10

    GOLD SHIELDS EPISODE169: FACELESS: The Last Hope for the Unidentified

    We hope you enjoy this episode of Gold Shields, let us know how we did. What happens when a victim has no name... no identity... and no one left searching? In this unforgettable episode of GOLD SHIELDS, we sit down with Lisa Bailey, former FBI Forensic Artist, forensic facial approximation specialist, and bestselling author of Clay & Bones.  For decades, Lisa worked at the intersection of art, science, and criminal investigation, reconstructing the faces of unidentified victims from nothing more than skulls and skeletal remains. Every face she recreated represented more than a work of art—it was a chance to restore a name, reunite families with their loved ones, and breathe new life into investigations that had gone cold. Some victims lose their lives. Others lose their names. Lisa Bailey dedicated her career to giving them both a voice and an identity. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Forensic Art 03:04 The Journey from Art to Forensic Science 05:48 The Science of Facial Reconstruction 08:52 Empathy in Forensic Art 11:56 Memorable Cases and Their Impact 14:47 The Role of Forensic Art in Solving Crimes 18:02 Challenges and Triumphs in the FBI 20:49 Unsolved Cases and Ongoing Mysteries 27:47 Confronting Workplace Harassment 29:48 Navigating Organizational Politics 31:37 The Breaking Point: Filing an EEO Case 34:22 The Impact of Leadership on Workplace Culture 36:41 The EEO Process: Challenges and Realities 38:07 The Motivation Behind Writing the Book 44:43 A New Identification: Closure for Victims 50:10 Inspiring Future Forensic Artists SUBSCRIBE to Youtube.com/@GoldShields Follow GOLD SHIELDS on ALL Audio Podcast Platforms Visit us at https://thegoldshieldshow.com SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.instagram.com/thegoldshieldshow/ https://www.facebook.com/THEGOLDSHIELDSHOW/ linkedin.com/in/tom-smith-09676a22b

  4. Jul 3

    GOLD SHIELDS EPISODE 168: ANGEL IN THE SKY | AC-130 Gunner Mary Howe’s Incredible Combat Story

    We hope you enjoy this episode of Gold Shields, let us know how we did. This week on GOLD SHIELDS, we take you into the heart of modern aerial warfare with an unforgettable interview featuring Mary Howe, a former U.S. Air Force AC-130 Gunner whose courage, precision, and leadership helped protect American troops in some of the world’s most dangerous combat zones. Born into a family with a deep and legendary tradition of military service, Mary Howe answered the call to serve with honor, carrying forward a legacy of sacrifice, patriotism, and unwavering commitment to country. As an elite gunner aboard the feared AC-130 gunship, Mary operated one of the most powerful close-air-support aircraft ever built—providing devastating firepower and lifesaving protection for troops on the ground. Mary and her crew became a lifeline for soldiers under fire, delivering precision strikes when seconds meant the difference between life and death.  This is a powerful conversation about heroism, combat, military aviation, patriotism, and the warriors who defend freedom from above. Don’t miss this incredible episode of GOLD SHIELDS—where real heroes tell their true stories. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Gold Shields and Guest Background 01:22 Mary Howe's Military Family Legacy 03:11 Choosing the Air Force: A Personal Journey 05:41 The AC-130U Gunship: Capabilities and Operations 09:54 First Mission Experience: A Life-Changing Moment 14:22 Subsequent Missions: Learning and Adapting 16:04 Decompression After Missions: Coping Mechanisms 17:15 Deployment Insights: Duration and Frequency 21:16 Life After Deployment: Balancing Work and Personal Life 22:14 Diverse Combat Experiences: Afghanistan vs. Iraq 25:04 Transitioning from Military to Nursing 27:12 Challenges in Nursing: From NICU to Aesthetics 30:33 Personal Growth and Resilience 32:39 Current Role: Supporting Veterans 34:57 The Impact of Service on Personal Life 38:38 Faith and Self-Worth: A Journey of Healing SUBSCRIBE to Youtube.com/@GoldShields Follow GOLD SHIELDS on ALL Audio Podcast Platforms Visit us at https://thegoldshieldshow.com SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.instagram.com/thegoldshieldshow/ https://www.facebook.com/THEGOLDSHIELDSHOW/ linkedin.com/in/tom-smith-09676a22b

  5. Jun 23

    GOLD SHIELDS EPISODE 167: WHICH WIRE DO YOU CUT?! | NAVY EOD EXPERT ON TICKING TIME BOMBS

    We hope you enjoy this episode of Gold Shields, let us know how we did. This week on GOLD SHIELDS, prepare for an edge-of-your-seat interview with Trevor Fortner, a U.S. Navy veteran and elite Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) expert who spent years confronting some of the deadliest ticking time bombs in combat zones around the world. When every second matters… how do you decide which wire to cut? What goes through your mind when one wrong move could mean instant death? How do bomb technicians stay calm while facing unimaginable pressure? Trevor takes us deep inside the terrifying reality of bomb disposal, IED detection, military special operations, and the life-or-death decisions that few people on Earth will ever understand.  But this conversation goes far beyond explosives. Trevor also delivers powerful insight into the importance of leadership and why great leaders change lives, why leadership matters in every profession, and how strong leadership can shape teams, families, and personal success.  You do not want to miss Episode 167 of GOLD SHIELDS. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to EOD and Special Ops Mindset 03:11 The Journey to EOD: Personal Experiences and Inspirations 05:58 Training and Challenges in EOD School 08:59 First Experiences and Lessons Learned in the Field 12:00 Understanding Bomb Makers and Their Signatures 15:12 The Reality of Bomb Disposal: Insights from the Field 18:04 Hollywood vs. Reality: The Hurt Locker Discussion 29:25 Decompressing After High-Stakes Missions 35:23 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life 36:25 Everyday Spy: Bridging Skills for Decision Making 42:51 Leadership Challenges in Modern Environments 49:20 Honoring Service and Sacrifice SUBSCRIBE to Youtube.com/@GoldShields Follow GOLD SHIELDS on ALL Audio Podcast Platforms Visit us at https://thegoldshieldshow.com SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.instagram.com/thegoldshieldshow/ https://www.facebook.com/THEGOLDSHIELDSHOW/ linkedin.com/in/tom-smith-09676a22b

  6. Jun 15

    GOLD SHIELDS EPISODE 166: HOW TO ROB A BANK, THE REAL STORY BEHIND THE NETFLIX DOCUMENTARY

    We hope you enjoy this episode of Gold Shields, let us know how we did. Netflix captivated audiences with How To Rob A Bank, the unbelievable true story of Scott Scurlock, better known as "Hollywood," the mastermind behind a string of high-profile bank robberies that stunned law enforcement and fascinated the public. In Episode #166 of GOLD SHIELDS, Tom and Dan bring together two of the most important people connected to this extraordinary case. Shawn Johnson, the retired FBI Special Agent who led the hunt for Hollywood and his crew, and Steve Meyers, one of Hollywood's accomplices during the robbery spree. This unique conversation explores the investigation from both sides—law enforcement and criminal. Shawn shares the challenges of tracking one of the country's most elusive bank robbers, while Steve provides a rare inside look into the mindset, planning, and reality of life inside a notorious bank robbery crew. From the headlines and Hollywood-style disguises to the relentless FBI manhunt that ultimately brought the case to an end, this episode offers an unforgettable look into one of America's most fascinating true-crime stories. Don't miss this exclusive conversation with the people who lived it. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to a Unique Collaboration 02:47 The Evolution of Bank Robberies 05:54 The First Encounter: A Cop and a Robber 09:06 The Planning Behind the Heists 11:49 The Role of Media in Criminal Investigations 15:07 Understanding the Criminal Mind 17:57 The Mechanics of a Bank Heist 21:04 The Dynamics of Criminal Partnerships 24:03 The Aftermath and Reflections 27:02 Conclusion: Lessons Learned 30:50 The Boldness of Bank Robberies 32:01 Technological Evolution in Banking Security 34:00 The Role of Surveillance and Public Involvement 34:53 The Mindset of Investigators 36:04 The Hollywood Moniker and Its Impact 36:46 The Progression of Robberies 39:01 Challenges in New Locations 41:04 The Final Robbery and Its Consequences 53:18 The Hasty Decision: A Turning Point 56:18 The Chaos of the Getaway 01:00:39 Tracking the Criminals: Technology in Action 01:02:56 The Search for Scott: Uncovering the Truth 01:08:27 The Final Confrontation: A Tragic End SUBSCRIBE to Youtube.com/@GoldShields Follow GOLD SHIELDS on ALL Audio Podcast Platforms Visit us at https://thegoldshieldshow.com SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.instagram.com/thegoldshieldshow/ https://www.facebook.com/THEGOLDSHIELDSHOW/ linkedin.com/in/tom-smith-09676a22b

  7. Jun 8

    GOLD SHIELDS EPISODE 165: WHAT THE CRIMINAL BRAIN ACTUALLY DOES

    We hope you enjoy this episode of Gold Shields, let us know how we did. A psychiatric nurse gets punched on shift and goes back the next day. That's the world Julie and Laurie live in — and it's the same world that produced every case Dan and Tom ever worked. Two psychiatric nurses from Night Shift: Darkness Diagnosed sit down with Gold Shields and get into the questions the criminal justice system has never fully answered: Are killers born or made? Does the brain of a serial killer actually know what it's doing? Why does a man walk calmly away from a crime scene while another runs? And are there people who are simply beyond rehabilitation? Clinical, direct, and nothing like what you've seen on television. This is the conversation detectives and psychiatric nurses have when no one's performing for a camera. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Mind of Killers 02:27 Nature vs. Nurture: Are Killers Born or Made? 09:30 Understanding the Consciousness of Killers 19:16 The Legal Perspective on Insanity 22:31 Debunking the Myth of Split Personality 27:29 Understanding Flat Responses in Crisis Situations 30:10 The Complexity of Mental Health and Crime 31:36 Choosing Cases for Discussion 34:16 Accountability in Mental Health Care 39:05 The Challenge of Proving Criminal Insanity 43:05 The Debate on Rehabilitation vs. Punishment 46:37 Favorite Episodes and Insights SUBSCRIBE to Youtube.com/@GoldShields Follow GOLD SHIELDS on ALL Audio Podcast Platforms Visit us at https://thegoldshieldshow.com SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.instagram.com/thegoldshieldshow/ https://www.facebook.com/THEGOLDSHIELDSHOW/ linkedin.com/in/tom-smith-09676a22b

  8. Jun 2

    Special GOLD SHIELDS Episode: THE SON OF SAM — NEW YORK'S SUMMER OF FEAR

    We hope you enjoy this episode of Gold Shields, let us know how we did. Step back into the tense and turbulent streets of New York City in 1977, when an elusive serial killer turned everyday life into a nightmare. In this special episode, we explore the terrifying case of David Berkowitz, the man who became infamous as the "Son of Sam." Over the course of more than a year, Berkowitz carried out a series of random shootings that left six people dead and seven others wounded. His attacks, often targeting young couples sitting in parked cars, spread fear across the city and dominated newspaper headlines. Taunting letters sent to police and the media fueled public panic, earning him the nickname "Son of Sam" after claims that a neighbor's dog was possessed and commanding him to kill. This episode examines the investigation that gripped New York, the massive manhunt that followed, and the eventual arrest of Berkowitz in August 1977. We also explore the social atmosphere of a city already struggling with crime, economic hardship, and the infamous blackout of 1977, all of which amplified the fear surrounding the case. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Son of Sam Case 03:05 The Context of New York City in the 1970s 05:54 David Berkowitz: The Man Behind the Murders 08:59 The First Victims and Initial Reactions 11:50 The Media Frenzy and Public Panic 15:05 The Investigation and Challenges Faced 17:57 Eyewitness Accounts and Their Impact 21:02 The Task Force and Ongoing Search 24:02 Conclusion and Reflections on the Case 29:12 The Breakthrough Clue 32:40 The Capture of the Son of Sam 36:38 Lessons from the Case 40:53 The Impact of the 1977 Blackout 45:00 Reflections on a Dark Time SUBSCRIBE to Youtube.com/@GoldShields Follow GOLD SHIELDS on ALL Audio Podcast Platforms Visit us at https://thegoldshieldshow.com SOCIAL MEDIA: https://www.instagram.com/thegoldshieldshow/ https://www.facebook.com/THEGOLDSHIELDSHOW/ linkedin.com/in/tom-smith-09676a22b

See All (174)

4.8
out of 5
61 Ratings

About

GOLD SHIELDS: TRUE CRIMES, TRUE STORIES, TRUE HEROES Welcome to Gold Shields, your ultimate source for true crime stories, real-life heroism, and military and law enforcement adventures. Hosted by the brave men and women who lived through these incredible moments, our channel takes you behind the scenes of dangerous missions, high-stakes investigations, and real-life stories that will leave you on the edge of your seat. We bring you exclusive, first-hand accounts from law enforcement officers and military veterans who have dedicated their lives to serving and protecting others.  Our channel offers you a unique "Back Stage Pass" to crime investigations, military operations, and the true grit it takes to bring justice to the world. Whether you’re a fan of true crime documentaries, military missions, or heroic stories, Gold Shields will deliver gripping tales of courage, dedication, and the heroes who risk everything to protect and serve. Tune in every week for new episodes, in-depth interviews, and exclusive content that highlights the incredible work of real-life heroes.

Information

  • Creator
    Tom Smith/Dan Murphy
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    174
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 GOLD SHIELDS
  • Show Website
    GOLD SHIELDS