The What's a Hero Podcast

Episode 101 of the What's a Hero Podcast introduces us to a man who has spent his entire adult life in the service of others. Dr. John Lohrfink has been a paramedic, patrol officer, and detective. He has a special place in his heart for those who have and are dealing with trauma, specifically active shooter trauma. His work dives into the cause and effect of that horrible act and what we as citizens can do about it. Dr. Lohrfink walks us through multiple aspects of what we can do based on what is available to us and what others have done in the past. You can find Dr. Lohrfink at John J.'s Profilelinkedin.com/in/john-j-lohrfinkEmailjlohrfink@gmail.comYou can also find us at www.whatsahero[odcast.buzzsprout.com and kenfrownfelter.com

Episode 100 of the What's a Hero Podcast culminates 3 years and 100 episodes of awesome people who epitomize the title hero. This episode, however, interviews the one who stands in their shadows, the least of them and not worthy of the title hero. We have an obligation to serve others and Mike Vorberg, acting as guest host, shines a light on just that. 

Episode 099 of the What's a Hero Podcast gets personal with a man who was there when those that had been there and done that were doing what they did. Chuck Yarbrough, an everyman, whose self-proclaimed purpose in life was to have fun and raise his children to be good people and do good for others. He has done that and continues to bring smiles to the faces of everyone he meets. 

Episode 098 of the What's a Hero Podcast is a short that asks the question: what is holding you back from making that change? The change you want to make is so close and sometime the only thing holding you back is you. We go over those things that hold us back from becoming everything we want to become. Because if we always do what we've always done then we'll always get what we've always gotten.  Fight insanity in this short episode. 

Episode 097 of the What's a Hero Podcast brings us a story of a detour Dan Sperry never saw coming. We meet Deputy Sperry, a career police officer who has been a school resource officer for most of his career and has seen a lot of change, some known and some unknown, in the people he serves. The detour life throws his way causing him to change paths is one you don't want to miss. 

Episode 096 of the What's a Hero Podcast asks the question "are you a people pleaser." We touch on the hero dampening behavior that is people pleasing. Is it something we do and what reason do we do it. And, if we do do it, why?  Let's get into it....

Episode 095 of the What's a Hero Podcast introduces us to an Army vet on a mission to serve his fellow man. Veteran, personal trainer and Man of War, Chris Franklin brings a unique vision to help others on their fitness or weight loss journey.  His dream to help and serve others anywhere in the world is his motivation to better himself in the process.  We could all use a friend like Coach Chris Franklin. 

Episode 094 of the What's a Hero Podcast speaks to the topic of victimhood. Feeling sorry for yourself is not an option, however there are ways not to do it. 

Episode 093 of the What's a Hero Podcast introduces us to veteran, retired police officer, author, pastor and chaplain, Tim Rupp. This man will change the way you see docile men of the cloth. He  has been there and done that and is willing to help you through any struggle you might be going through. 

Episode 092 of the What's a Hero Podcast is a short on the importance and impetus of training and preparing for that next challenge.  

Episode 091 of the What's a Hero Podcast brings us inside the world of the 911 dispatcher. The unsung heroes, the very first responder to many 911 emergencies and the toll it takes on those who sometimes can only guess the outcome of a given situation. Deborah Green takes us inside the world of a dispatcher who may not have seen it all but has heard it and struggled to keep it together as the aftermath took its toll.  

Episode 090 of the What's a Hero Podcast speak to the need to evolve and grow into a hero. The beginning of a new part of the What's a Hero Podcast, the shorts, to speak about what it takes to be a hero and how we all can do it. 

Episode 089 of the What's a Hero Podcast sits down with a guy who has seen and done it all, and if not, you wouldn't know it, Glen Topping. This Army veteran and police veteran has been and done a little of everything from patrol to interdiction, to investigations, undercover, task force work... you name it. He's an author and lifelong learner who works to teach a new generation, even still. This hero is a great guy to listen and learn a ton from. 

Episode 088 tells the story of Iron John and what it means to us. To the heroes who continue to strive every day to figure out their best self, where they came from, and what it is they are making available for those who need them most. How is it you have grown to be the hero you are. Is the 8-year-old version of yourself looking on you with that thing that says that's who I want to be? And what has it taken for you to get to this point in your life. Iron John breaks that down in a not-so-subtle way, that lets you figure that out. 

Episode 087 of the What's a Hero Podcast looks at the lack of male role models in the world and how much the world needs a certain kind of hero right now. Our young people are acting out all because of the lack of real male role models and heroes. This episode looks at that topic and tries to encourage men to step up. 

Episode 086 of the What's a Hero Podcast introduces us to a veteran Sailor who found his calling serving others on a humanitarian aid cruise in the south Pacific. From there Douglas James learned his ability and desire to serve others would be his next mission. We could all learn a thing or two from this hero.

Episode 085 of the What's a Hero Podcast sits down with a hero who has seen and done most of it. From life and death shoot outs to narcotic stings, human and drug trafficking busts, serving search warrants on SWAT, you name it he's probably done it, or come darn close. Now Chief Matthew Thomas closing that chapter and has written it down because it needed to be told and preserved. Meet a real hero who put it all on the line. 

Episode 084 of the What's a Hero Podcast addresses the topic "you may only have one chance." We look at the way we operate and determine if we want to take the chance of not having another opportunity, and if that opportunity will be fleeting. We also look at the stories of some real heroes and the good they did. 

Episode 083 of the What's a Hero Podcast tells the story of Medal of Honor winner Lt. Jack Montgomery. The inspiring true story of a native American medal of honor recipient for his valor on the battlefield at Anzio in 1944.  His heroic actions not only demoralized the enemy but saved his men and helped American forces push forward, helping to win the war in Europe. 

Episode 082 of the What's a Hero Podcast brings back an old friend as we go in depth of "Relentless Courage." Michael Sugrue returns, and we talk about the book he said was almost done writing when he was on back on episode 32.  He doen't only open up about he story of the trauma he underwent and the aftermath but we go into detail of how he overcame that struggle. With the help of Shauna 'Doc' Springer we can now understand how this book can help save lives.    

Episode 081 of the What's a Hero Podcast introduces us to the medical investigation side of death. Nurse Lindsey leads us down the road she took as an RN to become a medicolegal death investigator and SANE nurse. How death is investigated and how it integrates with law enforcement is complex but this young lady has a passion for helping bring closure to families of tragedy. 

Episode 080 of the What's a Hero Podcast sits down with a real-life big deal.  Doni is a cop who only ever wanted to do this job and do it the best he could. His desire to do what it takes to help others, get drugs off the street and build relationships is his core mark. From his days in the Air Force, being deployed and facing his own trauma to his days taking pounds of drugs off the street, this cop refuses to quit. His memory and quick wit serves him well as he continues to work towards the betterment of others. 

Episode 080 of the What's a Hero Podcast delves into the basis of what and why the police conduct business like they do. With the help of Officer Brooks, we get granular on the Peelian principles and answer the question a lot of society is asking police officers, why do you do what you do?

Episode 080 of the What's a Hero Podcast focuses on the journey, not the prize. We are meant to enjoy the ride and not worry about the destination, because that place may change along the way. The hero needs to focus on what he is doing, knowing where he is going, but never losing his need to see his current situation. Life can change in the blink of an eye, but we need to enjoy the ride. 

Episode 078 of the What's a Hero Podcast introduces us to US Navy Seal, entrepreneur, CEO, Sleep scientist and a plethora of other usable skills, not to mention survivor of physical trauma. Robert Sweetman talks about his time leading up to joining the Seal teams, his time in the teams and what he did after being injured and how he moved on from there, naturally. This hero spends his days working to help others better their lives and wants the best for those around him. 

Episode 077 of the What's a Hero Podcast takes us inside the world of human trafficking and the investigation of it by real heroes. One of which is retired detective Randall Snyder, who worked tirelessly, and sometimes to his own detriment, stopping those sick, twisted and evil people who traffic in children.  We learn about the toll it took on him and how he overcame the trauma he experienced and how he now shares how others can keep their own loved ones safe through his book, Cyber Creeps: Real-life investigations of internet crimes against children. 

Episode 076 of the What's a Hero Podcast reunites us with and old friend from episode 024, Jarrett Morris. This Deputy Sheriff, author, and business owner updates us on what he has going on and where life is taking him. We go over some life lessons and leadership lessons and realize life never stops throwing things at us. Fitness and wellness are Jarrett's next mission, and he offers that up with a dose of ethos...

Episode 075 of the What's a Hero Podcast details the life and times of a real American Hero. A man who chose a life of service to his country, fellow man, his family and his Corps. Cece AT Cece is a Marine who has done everything a Marine is expected to do and so much more. The relationships he garnered, the battles he fought and the struggles he persisted through. A man that did everything asked of him, and more.  

Episode 074 of the What's a Hero Podcast goes inside the life and time of retired Sailor and US Marshal Bobby Ledogar. A guy who worked his tail off serving others, only to be betrayed while helping another hero. Here is a story of ups and downs, good and bad and light at the end of the tunnel.  

Episode 073 of the What's a Hero Podcast brings us inside the world of someone who has no specific skin in the game but has a heart for those who do. Sarah Correll brings together those who struggle to trust and open up about the struggles they face. She offers that place and the relief to know there are people who care and can be trusted. bonds are formed, relationships are repaired and trauma is mitigated all because of "the Power of our Story." 

Episode 072 of The What's a Hero Podcast introduces us to a firefighter/EMT and author who has seen his fair share of traumatic events and yet keeps going. Ryan Rodriquez spends his life working to help others better by either saving their lives or teaching them how they can save their own. A teacher and a firefighter and a paramedic, it never stops for this hero.  

Episode 071 of the What's a Hero Podcast sits down with Army combat veteran and trauma survivor JD Thompson. His struggle after battle was almost more difficult than the battle itself. However, his ability to face the struggle and overcome it is nothing more than miraculous. Now, find out how he uses his ability to overcome to help others who are going through the same struggle and come out on the other side victorious as well.  

Episode 070 of the What's a Hero Podcast takes us to the other side of the investigation with former LAPD Internal Affairs investigator Marlon Marrache. We get a glimpse of the one that defended officers while their behavior was questioned. Marlon's approach and belief in his brothers and the system is evident in his everyday dealings. If you were under the eye of admin this is the guy you want looking out for you. 

Episode 069 of the What's a Hero Podcast details the growth and advent of identification and how we got to where we are. The heroes of yesteryear who work meticulously to determine who committed what crimes and how they worked to identify them. Step into the past as we learn a little about how we got to where we are and the heroes who helped us get here.  

Episode 068 of the What's a Hero Podcast reveals the life and service of a real American Hero. Growing up with the thought and desire to be a police officer only to find his true calling as a US soldier, Jeff Crapo truly defines the term hero. From dirt poor as a kid to working his way through college to fighting the Taliban and realizing he is pretty good at serving his country. Jeff now brings that service and leadership to those who continue to serve with Ethos.  

Episode 067 of the What's a Hero Podcast welcomes back an old friend, Chistopher Hoyer. We revisit episode 026 and the topic of that episode, the book "When That Day Comes." Written by Chris, we go a little deeper into it, talking about life lessons, lessons from the book and what being a hero really means to Chris. More gets fleshed out in this episode and Chris' selfless attitude comes shining through.  We also go into "All Because of a Love Note," because support is sometimes not seen until you least expect it.  

Episode 066 of the What's a Hero Podcast teaches us a thing or two with Police Officer and professional trainer, Scott Savage. How do you help police officers save lives, advance their careers and become experts? Well, you train them and train them correctly. With over 20 years in law enforcement Scott Savage has seen the ups and downs that career can offer. He subordinated his ego and worked for the greater good of those around him by taking what he's learned and sharing it. This hero not only learns what it takes but make sure he surrounds himself with others who are extremely capable of making those around them better. 

Episode 065 of the What's a Hero Podcast introduces us to former local police officer, retired federal agent, adjunct professor and author Mike Roche. Mike spent four decades in law enforcement conducting behavioral threat assessments of individuals considering targeted violence.  With such an interesting career, how can one not just sit and listen to this hero's story.  Not only is this a good story but Mike is such a likable guy you can help but want to be inspired and motivated by him.

Episode 063 of the What's a Hero Podcast has a great conversation with a hero who went to the bottom and was able to climb his way out and emerge as the hero he is. John Kelly spent 30 years serving as a police officer and is candid in regard to his struggle with addiction, adultery and suicide. He learned what he needed to do to be a better man and serve other people the way he was called to.  If not me then who is the motto he wants to live by and his desire for a legacy one could be proud of is his goal. Check this hero out!

Episode 064 of the What's a Hero Podcast fleshes out 35 rules a US Army Green Beret lives by and raises his children by. These are rules we all know and some of which we practice, however all of them, is that possible? They are simple, straight forward and will add value to your life. Too easy, right? 

Episode 062 of the What's a Hero Podcast introduces us to retired Deputy Chief Scott Mingus. The darkness, struggle and pain associated with him and his victory over trauma makes his story one worth sharing. The full career of a man who worked tirelessly for other people and now continues to work for those same people, because it is what he is called to do. we can all learn a little something from Scott Mingus. 

Episode 061 of the What's a Hero Podcast tells the stories of three very different "Police Heroes" and the good they did. Trooper Barry Croy, Chief Robert Mortell and Deputy Richard Bach all heroes who sacrificed to help keep others safe and bring the bad guys to justice. Stories taken from the book "Police Heroes" written by Chuck Whitlock, are three of many who willingly served others because it was who they are. 

Episode 060 of the What's a Hero Podcast takes us through the journey of one who, but for the grace of God, would not be here. Ms. Jenae's journey is a difficult and painful one to follow but brings us face to face with what police and other first responders see everyday, but this time it is much more personal. If it weren't for those heroes this story may have never been told. This is raw and unflinching, but makes us all want to come together and serve one another, because you never know what others have suffered and gone through. As she continues to fight for others and serve others we can all learn a little something from this unlikely, human, hero.   

Episode 059 of the What's a Hero Podcast helps to shed some light on the weight a hero bares serving others. Jason Sery brings an understanding and personal struggle, and victory, to what it is many first responders, and police officers specifically, go through during their career. However, no matter the struggle or trauma faced the reward of overcoming and victory is sweet. With much left to do, learn what Jason now continues to bring to others who are working to fight the good fight. 

Episode 058 of the What's a Hero Podcast takes us international, once again, with RCMP Swat Commander Kevin Cyr. A hero who grew up knowing what he wanted to do and figuring how to go about making it happen. Now he works to better all those who he works with and works for, not only leading down the chain of command, but up the chain of command as well.  

Episode 057 of the what's a Hero Podcast brings an understanding of lifelong service in our conversation with police officer, author, business owner, family man, public speaker and trainer, Lt. Jim Glennon. Lt. Glennon's desire to do nothing else than be a cop in the suburbs of Chicago had been with him since an early age. Hailing from a family of cops, he knew this was all he wanted to do and be. After 30 years of service, leaving was an emotional moment for him, and remains that way. His lifework will always be police work, which is why he continues to help a new generation learn the lessons he learned. The word hero means much more when one honors the kid, they once were, with the work of continuing to serve what that kid wanted so badly to become. 

Episode 056 of the What's a Hero Podcast brings us up close and personal with the Angry Viking, himself. This Police Officer, turned therapist embodies what heroism focused on the betterment of mankind looks like. Dr. Wilkins tells his story and explains how he, now, works to help those suffering from trauma associated with PTSD, PTSI and other forms of internal struggles. He's not your average therapist but also a man who learned what he needed and how he could use that to help others just like him. Dr. Wilkins is the real deal from the Viking, to the struggling hero, to the healer who will fight for others as much as he'll fight for himself. 

This Episode of the What's Hero Podcast remembers those heroes we have lost this year serving others and giving everything to the betterment of their fellow man. As we enter Police week 2022, we can never know the sacrifice and price paid, but we can earn this life and honor those who gave everything so we can live a life worth living. Never forget those who came before and gave all that was required. Thank you for your service. 

Episode 055 of the What's a Hero Podcast speaks with US Navy veteran, martial artists, violence expert, business owner and author Tim Larkin. Having trained more than 10,000 people in more than 50 countries to deal with imminent violence Tim's expertise and knowledge is on par with the best in the world. Through his book "When Violence is the Answer"  and his experience, his hope is that he can share his knowledge so those who are unfamiliar with violence will know how to deal with it should they ever be faced with it. He knows 99% of the time violence is not the answer, but when it is, it is the only answer. 

Episode 054 of the What's a Hero Podcast introduces us to Brandon Griffith of Griffith Blue Heart. Brandon's life, and his death, helped him realize his need to earn everyday by giving back and sharing his life to help prepare others to prevent the worst-case scenario. By sharing his story and realizing what it takes to live a life not knowing if each day will be your last Brandon epitomizes what it takes to a hero's hero. 

Episode 053 of the What's a Hero Podcast introduces us to a retired Air Force Veteran who spends her life working towards supporting veterans and those who support veterans. Not only does Lt. Col Gallowitz support veterans but she focuses on those who support the veteran, the family, friends and loved ones. Who will be there to help the veteran when they come home, as they figure out the next mission, this is who Lt.Col. Gallowitz empowers through Vanguard Veteran. We all need someone to be willing to support us, who supports them... Lt. Col. Gallowitz and Vanguard Veteran.