Truth behind the badge with Team South Florida: Recent Episodes
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Policing today: a real, direct, and honest perspective behind the badge. Message us if you want a topic discussed. TeamSouthFlorida.org
In this episode, Rich sat down with Jorge Gomez for a thoughtful and honest conversation about service, leadership, and what truly matters when the uniform comes off.
Jorge’s journey spans more than two decades of service, beginning with the United States Coast Guard, including both active duty and reserve time, and continuing into a law enforcement career that has included patrol, detective work, homicide investigations, and now serving as a patrol supervisor.
Along the way, he has carried the weight that comes with responsibility, trauma, and leadership, while now recognizing and making it known who matters most to him: his wife and young children.
This episode highlights how Jorge’s lived experiences have shaped a leadership philosophy rooted in caring for one another, investing in people, and intentionally building a culture where teammates are seen, supported, and valued. He shares hard-earned lessons about balancing duty and family, leading with empathy, and breaking cycles that don’t serve the next generation of officers.
This is a conversation about service beyond titles, leadership beyond rank, and the quiet strength it takes to choose family, connection, and humanity in professions that often demand everything. Jorge breaks the stigma by acknowledging what really is normal.
Brought to you by Team South Florida, honoring service, supporting those who serve, and reminding us we don’t have to carry the weight alone. To reach Jorge, feel free to send us a message, and we'll happily connect you.
💥 Are you ready to tackle one of the toughest challenges life can throw your way?
Police Detective, Author, Podcast Host, Animator, and Founder of OneWay Publishing, Mr. Clee Tilman, on LinkedIn and the host of the "Black & Blue" podcast proudly presented this episode, Badge & Breakup.
This was an eye-opening discussion tailored for law enforcement officers navigating the complexities of divorce. Clee looked at emotional resilience, legal hurdles, and how to protect your kids while building a future you can be proud of.
🎙️✨ Here’s what you can expect:
- Emotional Jiu-Jitsu 🤼♂️
- Legal Labyrinths ⚖️
- Stress Survival Kit 💪
- Co-Parenting Playbook 👨👧👦
BlackAndBluePodcast #DivorceSupport #ThriveAfterDivorce
In this powerful episode of Truth Behind the Badge, we sat down with former Police Sergeant Sarah Patterson, who shared her deeply personal journey through betrayal, resilience, and the painful reality many officers never expect, but find out about if it happens to them or someone close.
Rather than focus on the specifics of her case, we asked Sarah to open up about the silence from leadership, the absence of support from peers, and the hard truth about how quickly the so-called brotherhood and sisterhood can fade. Her story is not about bitterness. It's about survival. It’s about refusing to let the job define your worth, your life, or your future.
Together, we talk about the importance of standing up for what’s right, even when it costs you so much. We talk about the strength it takes to keep going when the uniform is taken but your heart still beats for service. And we remind anyone listening who may be struggling, you are not alone.
This episode is hosted by the Team South Florida Law Enforcement Charity and sponsored by Warrior Spirit Health and Wellness. We have seen what silence and isolation can do. That's why we speak up. That’s why we created this space.
You can reach Sarah on instagram AT sarah___patterson
In this episode, we sat down with a great man and a true leader in the law enforcement profession. Lieutenant JP Guillot, a 30 year police veteran, is just months away from hanging up the badge.
He’s always been humble and this conversation was no different. We talked about how much the job has changed since he started as a police explorer back in the late '80s, to working narcotics in some of the toughest areas, to climbing the ranks and eventually helping shape the future of law enforcement through his leadership and tenure at one of Florida’s most respected and well-known police academies.
He didn’t hold back, sharing his honest thoughts on everything from “TikTok cops” to what’s really hurting law enforcement leadership these days. There was even a moment that got emotional, when we surprised him with some heartfelt words from someone he truly made a lasting impact on.
This one’s for anyone who believes leadership still matters and the right people in uniform still make a difference. Whether you're active, retired, supportive, or aspiring law enforcement, give this one a listen and if you'd like, reach out to JP though his instagram page at Talon Protection.
JP, Sir, brother, thank you for who you are and all you've sacrificed for the profession and society. Congratulations and best wishes on a WELL DESERVED upcoming retirement.
-Your Team South Florida Law Enforcement Charity Family
This episode gets real with Mr. Mike Mellides of @CoachUniteUs , as we caught up over one year later since our last episode together. For episode one, Mike filled us in on his rollercoaster of a journey through the law enforcement profession.
For this episode, Mike talks about the present and lessons learned after sacrificing so much for his police career. This included his health, time, and safety among other things. Despite that, he was simply pushed aside when he it was convenient for his administration.
Mike opens up about hitting rock bottom, the darkness that nearly took him, and the fire that brought him back. Now with a clearer purpose than ever, he’s using his pain to continue serving others through his charity, coaching, and entrepreneurship.
His story is raw, real, and a reminder that even when we feel broken, we can still rise and lead. You don’t need rank to be a leader. That comes from heart, and you either have it or you don’t.
WarriorSpirit #Resiliency #Mindset
The episode is available on all major podcast platforms featuring @teamsouthflorida ‘s Truth Behind the Badge.
Serving with Honor – Lessons from a Law Enforcement Officer / US Coast Guard Commander and a Firefighter Battalion Chief.In this powerful episode, we sat down with two remarkable guests — a retired firefighter battalion chief and a retired U.S. Coast Guard Commander who also served as a police officer. With decades of experience in service and leadership, they share their inspiring journeys, some lessons they learned, and the values that guided them through it all.
Beyond their impressive careers, these men are dedicated to family, humility, and taking care of others. Their stories highlight the resilience, courage, and deep sense of duty that shaped their lives. From leadership insights to heartfelt advice, this conversation is packed with wisdom for anyone looking to lead with integrity and serve with passion.
It was an honor to sit down with Stephanie Kiesow and not just discuss her incredible book, Workicide, but also have a great conversation about wellness, life in general, the workplace, and our identity.
More information and a link to purchase her book through Amazon can be found at her website: www.stephaniekiesow.com. She can also be contacted via LinkedIn at Stephanie Kiesow.
It's been humbling and amazing getting to know this law enforcement officer over the years. From nearly being killed after being shot, to never forgetting his role as a father, husband, friend, and much more, to work promotions, it's been rewarding beyond measure. It was a pleasure to connect with JR, formerly Big Sarge, now Lieutenant, and discuss all things leadership.
You can connect with JR via instagram at fit_cop.
We had a great conversation with retired veteran police officer and musician, Mr. Frank Ray. Hats off to Frank who did his time in policing, experienced the ups and downs of the profession, followed his passion and was blessed to take his musical talents into a full-time career.
Frank shared his thoughts about mental health, giving back, and never forgetting those who have made the ultimate sacrifice and their families.
Frank's social media can all be found via his main website at https://frankraymusic.com. In addition, Frank shared his mental health campaign titled “FRAY", which he transformed into an organization dedicated to mental health for first responders. The name is derived from First Responders mentAl claritY and more info can be found at www.frayoc.org
Amanda, a veteran law enforcement officer, trainer, and with a strong focus on fitness, wellness, and mental health sat down to talk and share her insight gained over the years.
What an incredible human being who has no problem making himself vulnerable, being transparent and open, in an effort to help others.
We sat down with retired Miami-Dade Police Sergeant JC Prellezo and discussed his struggle, perseverance, and thoughts on law enforcement then and now.
Sergeant Prellezo created 3am Fog based on his own story he shared with us. He calls it a safe place for first responders to try and begin to understand and heal from the psychological injuries from trauma.
You can follow and contact "JC" at instagram at @3a.m.fog and on youtube at: 3AMFOG.
Rich sat down with Detective Roberto Quinones, better known as "Q", to many in South Florida to discuss the upcoming 28th Annual Florida Tour de Force memorial charity bicycle ride.
This years ride takes place April 8th thru April 12th and travels from Miami Beach to Daytona Beach.
Additional information can be found at: https://floridatourdeforce.org/
For the return of this podcast, Rich sat down with Mike Mellides for a powerful, moving, and emotional episode which can best be described as an emotional rollercoaster.
Mike was vulnerable, transparent, and open about his experience as a police officer through some of the ups and unfortunately, some of the all too real negatives many are not privy to. Despite going through a living hell and coming close to losing it all, Mike chose to be resilient, find his why, find his purposes, and continues pushing to help and inspire others.
Mike is currently focusing on entrepreneurship, continued professional growth, and as he has done for years, continues fostering relationships with the youth to guide them as a mentor, coach, and teacher through his nonprofit, CoachUniteUs.
We hope you enjoy this episode and in Mike's own words, if this episode helps even just one person find hope, it was all worth it.
You can reach Mike on instagram at @CoachUniteUs
Check out Bookem_Bridges on instagram and Bookem on Spotify. An active New Jersey law enforcement officer sits down with Rich, an active South Florida law enforcement officer to relate music to current events. This episode is dedicated to our NYPD Family grieving and struggling.
Retired Law Enforcement Officers Angel and Drew answer your questions regarding perception of law enforcement post January 6th.
CC, JR, Rich and an unexpected appearance by Angel all sit down together and share some laughs coupled with some serious conversation.
What a powerful interview with the wife of a Police Officer. Learn more by following @ClearOfficerDages on Instagram. Sadly this could literally be any one of us at any given time. We need #Leadership now more than ever before.
After a heavy 24 hours, Rich is joined by Angel, Drew, and Bookem for some #RealTalk Chicago. God bless our Chicago PD brothers and sisters.
We were proud to join Officer Autumn in a talk about all things resiliency and leadership.
"No one is coming to save you from the job. It's on you." -Officer Autumn.
It's all about mindset and we discuss five real world examples of five different situations where our brothers and sisters took it upon themselves to survive!!
A special thank you to Maureen Lynn for authoring a very powerful message. A special thank you to our volunteers for giving the message a personal touch.
In one word, hearing from Jess and Braden inspires... "HOPE" in our future. Thankful for courageous and brave individuals like Jess and Braden who are not afraid to stand up for what they believe in.
Joined by "JP", we discuss all things training related and policing in 2021 related with a Lieutenant who has served his community for more than 25 years.
First segment: What is going on in our schools? Are our children being brainwashed? Second segment: Are Law Enforcement Officers racist?
Part two of our three part series focusing on what its like when it really hits the fan. Why its important to be prepared and what its like in the aftermath. Blessed to sit down with these two gentlemen, heroes, officers, fathers, and husbands to share their stories. #HardToKill #Courage #TrainToWin
This is part one of a three part series with studio guests Cornell and Jr. This episode focuses on mental, physical, and emotional MINDSET among other topics that will carry us into part two and then part three.
Co-founders Meghan, a Yoga and Meditation Instructor and Jeanna Marie, a Law Enforcement Officer and licensed clinician joined Rich to discuss Wellness for Warriors. This TEAM is comprised of a wealth of diverse experiences that make them unique and able to accomplish their goals and mission. They simply want to help.... First Responders and their families, can utilize their free no cost services and have the confidence of anonymity and confidentiality. Check them out at: www.wellnessforwarriors.live
We sit down with Emelie Nimtz for the final part of a 3 part series recapping what it's like, one year later, after the line of duty death of her partner.
Frustrated with a number of issues placing Law Enforcement under siege, this episode provides insight from a nearly 40 year Law Enforcement veteran still serving on the front lines.
We were fortunate to sit down and have a conversation with Tom. Tom is a retired Law Enforcement veteran who shared his perspective on several topics.
There is a lot of negative attention given to Law Enforcement portrayed by many in the media today. Although this conversation could have certainly been negative, we found it interesting to note how Tom's attitude remained very positive and upbeat regarding the topics.
Nick Wilson of the Resiliency Project joined us to discuss mental health and the common theme consistently came back to leadership. It just goes to show whether you are talking about Florida, California, or anywhere in between, Leadership is CRUCIAL, especially these days.
Kaylyn, a college student who is not afraid to support Law Enforcement, shares some insight while working on a journalism project involving Law Enforcement and mental health. From speaking with Officers near and far, active and retired, the results are fairly consistent. Support is lacking and its taking a toll.
We sat down with Teresa Kondek to share with us over five years later, how her husband, Charlie Kondek's legacy lives on. We also took the opportunity to hear what Teresa felt about some current trends involving her Law Enforcement Family.
Less than two weeks before their Father's one year end of watch anniversary, Emelie Nimtz takes us through the last twelve months for Elizah and Tommy.
Ten Eight Memes joined us on tonight's episode for a much needed break from the daily stresses of the job and everything else going on these days. They are on Facebook at Ten Eight Memes and Instagram at teneight_memes.
On this episode, Emelie Nimtz takes us through the heartbreaking and difficult reality of receiving the dreaded knock on the door. Emelie shares what follows in the first week when our Law Enforcement Family are tragically killed in the line of duty...
We are honored to introduce of our newest volunteers and Family Liaisons, Emelie Nimtz, wife of Benji Nimtz.
Rich was joined by the Florida Tour de Force's Vice President Kevin, Board Member Todd, and Board Member Q to share some exciting updates regarding the 2020 Florida Tour de Force. More information at www.FloridaTourDeForce.org
18 years in the profession... Whats changed and how do we stay motivated? Remember what Less Brown said, “When life knocks you down, land on your back. Because if you can look up, you can get up."
Rich sat down with Carolyn, Claudia, Kristen, and Melissa who combined, brought a lot of unique experience to the table. As Claudia said, "You might forget me when you hang up the phone or when you put away your uniform but I don't forget the sound of fear in your voice, your tears, the relief in your voice when it's a false alarm".
We sat down with Jon and Lou Tuesday evening. Jon is a military veteran and an active Police Officer in New Hampshire. Lou is the President of his Local Union and an active Police Officer in New Jersey. It was interesting to discuss the similarities and differences facing these Law Enforcement Officers. Being "essential", everyone leaves their families at home to care for the communities they serve.
An honest conversation about relationships with a First Responder. Emelie Nimtz, of the Benjamin Nimtz Hero Foundation, thought it was important to have a candid conversation with First Responders and not hold back. Emelie was joined by volunteers with TSF who bring a diverse background with varying experience and opinions.
March 13th, 2016... Almost four years after that horrific date, we had the privilege of sitting down with Bev Perez. Thanks to Bev, this podcast was an amazing, honest, candid, open, direct, and blunt conversation. Bev shared a small glimpse into some of the ups and downs that she had experienced. We could not be more proud and honored to call Bev one of our sisters and see all of the great things yet to come.
Huge thank you to Sam and Amirah for coming together and candidly discussing perception in today's communities as it relates to Law Enforcement. #BridgeTheGap #Policing #OneBigFamily #HumanizeTheBadge
Meet our secretary, Christine. Our apologies for some technical difficulties with the audio.
On tonight's show, we are honored to have Emelie Nimtz, the wife of fallen Broward Sheriff's Deputy Benji Nimtz with us. Emelie was kind enough to open our eyes and those who choose to listen by hearing a unique perspective not often considered.
Proud to introduce some of our great volunteers. Mike, our current Vice President, shares a little bit about himself.
Truth behind the badge - Episode 2: We have to do better. Introduction, what you can expect from our podcast, and the importance on surrounding yourself with positivity.
We'll be introducing some of our volunteers who make us who we are. We'll also have those in depth and difficult conversations that are needed to improve our profession and communities.
We look forward to sharing the truth behind the badge with our podcasts.
Additional information about us can be found at www.TeamSouthFlorida.org