A Badge of Honor Podcast

Spreely Media
Spreely Media
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Former Secret Service LEO Samantha Horwitz and former NYPD Detective John Salerno host A Badge of Honor Podcast to highlight Post Traumatic Stress Injury recovery, wellness, and resiliency possible through training and support. Their organization by the same name works with police department mental health liaisons and critical incidence management teams to provide workshops that are pivotal to successful lives and families in our communities. Call 469-232-7894 or go to ABadgeOfHonor.org to start a workshop or sponsor an officer in your hometown!

  1. 1d ago

    Exposing Grant Fraud Affecting Veteran nd First Responder Nonprofits

    Sam Horwitz and David Solerno host a hard‑hitting roundtable that pulls back the curtain on a shadowy grant ecosystem siphoning money from the nonprofits that serve veterans and first responders. The panel features Dr. Arnell, executive director of 220 and longtime first‑responder; Joe Nagra, board member of 220 and Marine veteran; Ian Patterson, executive director of Operation Recovery and former Air Force combat weather specialist; and John Edmondson, director of wellness at the Green Branch and veteran‑focused program leader. Together they map out how grant applications are filtered, why established charities with deep roots are repeatedly passed over, and how some awards are pre‑written for phantom or well‑connected entities. Listeners hear concrete examples: a government grant that was secretly earmarked for the University of Tennessee, a private “pay‑to‑play” veteran bank that demands donations before it will consider funding, and the opaque criteria that ask for bank‑account balances as a de‑facto gatekeeper. The guests explain how they uncovered these patterns through persistent FOIA requests and on‑the‑ground research, and they outline practical steps for nonprofits to verify eligibility, document red flags, and report abuse to the Inspector General or relevant oversight bodies. The conversation also touches on the human toll—how funding gaps erode mental‑health services for those who risk their lives daily. Yet the panel stresses that integrity still wins: they share how 220 and Operation Recovery maintain a 90 % mission‑to‑expense ratio and why whistleblowers are protected under the Whistleblower Act. By the end, the episode equips veterans, first responders, and nonprofit leaders with a roadmap to navigate grant waters, spot fraud, and demand accountability, while reaffirming the community’s commitment to keep funding where it belongs: on the front lines of mental‑health care. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  2. Oct 26

    Protecting Our Children - The ATP Task Force

    Sam Horwitz and David Solerno pull back the curtain on the All Things Possible (ATP) Task Force, a law‑enforcement‑focused nonprofit battling child sexual exploitation, sextortion, and human trafficking. The hosts open with a stark reminder of the cultural battles they see in schools—drag shows, explicit books, and internet‑driven predators—setting the tone for a hard‑hitting conversation. David explains how ATP grew from overseas anti‑trafficking work to a U.S. operation that partners with prosecutors, the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC), and local police. He describes the mental‑resilience training they provide to first responders, the specialized retreats for forensic analysts, and the practical resources they deliver to officers on the front lines. Sam emphasizes the sheer scale of the problem, citing a 55.7 million‑dollar industry in child sexual exploitation and the alarming rise of sextortion scams that begin on Instagram, TikTok, and even school‑sanctioned platforms. The dialogue moves to concrete action: how parents can protect their kids, the role of school resource officers, and the importance of community outreach sponsored by Patriot Mobile. Listeners hear real‑world examples—from a Florida extortion ring targeting teens to a multi‑agency bust that saved lives—illustrating the interconnected web of law‑enforcement, prosecutors, and nonprofit support. Throughout, Horwitz and Solerno stress that the fight isn’t limited to big cities; small‑town America faces the same threats. They call on viewers to become “warriors” for children, whether by joining ATP training, supporting the Carry the Load veterans walk, or simply voting for leaders who will keep explicit content out of schools. The episode ends with a rallying cry for collective responsibility and a promise of upcoming seminars to equip officers and parents alike with the tools needed to safeguard the next generation. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  3. Oct 12

    Unconventional Hope.- From Paralysis to the Finish Line

    Former firefighter and paratriathlete Trent Fielder joins Sam Horwitz and John for a raw, heart‑opening conversation about surviving three paralytic episodes, battling Guillain‑Barre syndrome and Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy, and turning relentless pain into a mission. Trent recounts how a prayer from his young daughter sparked a mental compass that guided him from wheelchair to Ironman finish lines, where he wears the names of fallen first responders on his back. He details the birth of Tri‑Hope, a nonprofit forged from his daughter Nebiah’s name, and how a donated endless pool ignited a nationwide fundraising engine that supports veterans, first responders, and their families. Listeners hear vivid stories of adaptive training with the Adaptive Training Foundation, the emotional weight of his first wife’s suicide, and the daily grind of designing leg braces and training for 22‑mile open‑water swims. The hosts highlight community partners—Patriot Mobile, East Texas Legends Coffee, and local sponsors—while urging fans to join the cause via TryHope.org, social channels, and volunteer opportunities. Trent’s narrative weaves faith, mental resilience, and a relentless “one bite at a time” mindset, offering a blueprint for anyone wrestling with trauma or seeking purpose beyond personal triumph. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  4. Oct 5

    Smashing Cancer with Hearts and Helmets

    In this episode of A Badge of Honor TV, Sam Horwitz and David Solerno sit down with Nick Juarez and Natalie Juarez of the Hearts and Helmets program. The conversation opens with a moving story of a service dog calming an officer in ICU, illustrating how deeply the bond between veterans and their canine partners can affect recovery. From there, the Juarez duo explains how Hearts and Helmets was born out of personal experience—Nick’s own family faced a cancer diagnosis, and the lack of coordinated support sparked a mission to build a nationwide safety net for veteran families. Listeners hear the step‑by‑step process a family goes through when they call Hearts and Helmets: a compassionate intake questionnaire, free counseling for parents and children, on‑call psychiatrists, and practical assistance with daily tasks that often fall through the cracks during treatment. The program’s partnership with the American Warrior Association’s R3 initiative expands resources to first‑responders dealing with moral injury, while collaborations with the Fort Worth Stockyards Foundation, local sports teams, and the Dallas Fire Department bring unique experiences—flight‑sim tours, PBR events, and meet‑and‑greets with athletes—to children coping with a parent’s illness. Sam and David highlight the importance of community‑driven fundraising, from the "Bras for a Cause" breast‑cancer calendar to upcoming outdoor events at the Stockyards. The hosts also discuss how the program leverages social media, Instagram, Facebook, and a simple donation tab on heartsandhelmets.org to keep support flowing. Throughout, the Juarez’s emphasize that every family’s needs are different, and the program’s flexibility—local and nationwide outreach, adaptable counseling, and even future pickleball initiatives—ensures no veteran feels alone in the fight against cancer. The episode closes with a call to action: visit heartsandhelmets.org, follow the organization online, and consider donating to keep these life‑changing services alive for the brave men and women who have served our country. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  5. Sep 28

    When That Day Comes with Ret. LEO Chris Hoyer

    Guest Chris Hoyer delves deep into the intricate emotional landscape of law enforcement, illuminating the often-hidden effects of trauma and critical incidents. Drawing on personal experiences, Hoyer reflects on the loss of his partner, Dave Glasser, a moment that marked a turning point in his life and career. From that pivotal day in May 2016, he shares how he gradually became emotionally disconnected, only realizing the depth of his struggle upon retirement. With raw honesty, he recounts the challenges he faced, the complexities of survivor's guilt, and the urgency of addressing mental health in police departments. The discussion emphasizes the importance of peer support among officers, underlining how crucial it is for law enforcement professionals to feel safe in sharing their burdens. Hoyer candidly addresses obstacles in mental health programs within police departments, revealing that many still stagnate without real progress. He believes storytelling is not just cathartic but vital for healing, and he encourages fellow officers to take a moment to reach out to their peers. With compelling anecdotes, the episode highlights the dark intersections of duty, trauma, and resilience. Hoyer’s narrative is not just a personal testimony; it serves as a call to action for law enforcement agencies to prioritize mental health resources and the well-being of their officers. In sharing his own journey of recovery and shedding light on the importance of community, he inspires others to confront their own challenges, advocating for a shift towards openness and understanding in a profession where vulnerability is often masked. Join us as Hoyer’s story unfolds, highlighting how each officer’s journey matters and the critical need for supportive networks in overcoming personal battles. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  6. Sep 21

    It s All About Your Sleep with Ret. Navy Seal Rob Sweetman

    Sleep is often underestimated, but for veterans and first responders, it's a matter of life and death. Retired Navy SEAL Rob Sweetman shares his personal journey, exposing the chilling link between sleep deprivation and mental health crises within these communities. He opens up about losing his friend Ryan Larkin to suicide and how it spurred him to explore the science of sleep. Listeners are provided with actionable tips to enhance sleep quality, including the pivotal role of consistency and creating a sleep-conducive environment. Sweetman dives into alternatives to harmful sleep medications and stresses the necessity of addressing the unique sleep challenges faced by first responders. He discusses strategies like polyphasic sleeping and the importance of establishing a wind-down routine that transitions the mind and body into relaxation. With informative insights, Rob encourages listeners to confront their excuses and prioritize their well-being through better sleep habits. This episode is crucial for anyone looking to improve their mental health and recognize the undeniable connection between sleep and overall quality of life. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  7. Sep 14

    Lead Like it s Two Dark Thirty with Marc Hill

    In the realm of first responders, accountability and leadership intertwine in profound ways. Join Marc Hill as he reflects on the importance of these values amidst the challenges faced by those who serve. Listen in as he recounts heartwarming moments from a recent family event, where celebrities honored heroes from the NYPD, and how it emphasized the unbreakable bond between first responders and their communities. Hill's wisdom shines when he discusses the need for unyielding standards and the vital role of education in shaping effective leaders. Navigating through the complexities of public safety, he challenges the status quo, urging listeners to hold their leaders accountable for decisions that affect lives. Embracing failure as a learning tool is central to Hill's philosophy, shaping the dialogue around resilience and growth. As he shares personal anecdotes, including his journey from education to firefighting, he emphasizes that true leadership is about teaching those around you. This episode serves as a powerful reminder of the need for strong ethical boundaries and the importance of integrating family values into the fabric of first responder life. Tune in to discover how being prepared for 'Two Dark Thirty'—that critical moment when decisions matter most—can define not only a leader but also a community's future. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

  8. Aug 31

    Your Trauma Doesn t Define You with Ofc. Sam Cabrera

    As the 25th anniversary of September 11th approaches, the enduring pain for first responders is palpable. In this poignant episode, Lieutenant Samantha Cabrera shares her personal journey, touching on the traumatic memories that continue to haunt many while advocating for the essential need for mental health support. Cabrera, a seasoned officer who entered the force inspired by the resilience exhibited during 9/11, recounts her experiences with trauma and mental health, including her introduction to EMDR therapy. Through emotional revelations, she uncovers how critical peer support networks and wellness initiatives have played a role in her healing journey. Listeners will gain insight into the struggles many first responders face, including survivor's guilt, and how such emotional burdens can manifest in destructive coping mechanisms. Cabrera's candid discussion about her breakdown, provoked by grief, emphasizes the importance of understanding that embracing therapeutic support is not a sign of weakness but a necessary step toward healing. Together with her peers, she underscores the power of connection to combat loneliness and promote mental well-being. As she elaborates on her work with programs like H.R.S.S. and Responder Wellness, listeners learn the importance of regular check-ins for mental health maintenance—treating emotional challenges similarly to how one would manage physical health. Emphasizing the need for ongoing dialogue, Cabrera frames mental health discussions as vital in breaking the stigma around therapy within the first responder community. This heartfelt conversation serves as a beacon of hope, encouraging others to seek help and recognize that their trauma does not define their identity. Join us as we honor fallen heroes and navigate the intricate web of mental health in public service, ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten. If you’re someone who has walked a similar path or know someone who has, this episode is designed to resonate deeply with you, illuminating that healing is possible and crucial. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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About

Former Secret Service LEO Samantha Horwitz and former NYPD Detective John Salerno host A Badge of Honor Podcast to highlight Post Traumatic Stress Injury recovery, wellness, and resiliency possible through training and support. Their organization by the same name works with police department mental health liaisons and critical incidence management teams to provide workshops that are pivotal to successful lives and families in our communities. Call 469-232-7894 or go to ABadgeOfHonor.org to start a workshop or sponsor an officer in your hometown!

Information

  • Channel
    Spreely Media
  • Creator
    Samantha Horwitz and John Salerno
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    171
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © © 2026 A Badge of Honor | OBBM Network Podcasts
  • Show Website
    A Badge of Honor Podcast

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