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In this deeply emotional and powerful episode of GOLD SHIELDS, we share the unforgettable and heartbreaking story of Chris AuCoin—a young man who fought a silent war against depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Join his parents, Brent and Paula, as they bravely open up about a decade-long journey of watching their beloved son slowly fall into the shadows of mental illness.

Brent and Paula’s courage in sharing their story shines a light on the real-life consequences of untreated mental health issues, the importance of support systems, and the urgent need for mental health awareness and suicide prevention.

Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to Chris O'Coin's Story
02:14 The Early Life and Career of Chris O'Coin
08:26 Military Service and Its Impact
11:37 Transition to Law Enforcement
16:39 Struggles with Mental Health
21:37 The Family's Perspective on Chris's Challenges
26:13 The Heartbreaking Reality of PTSD
29:48 Navigating Crisis: A Family's Journey
32:43 The Pain of Loss: Chris's Story
39:33 Understanding Suicide: A Desperate Act
41:54 Breaking the Stigma: Mental Health Awareness
48:59 Resources for Help: Finding Support

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In this powerful and emotional interview, Bristol Police Officer Alec Iurato shares his harrowing story of survival. Alec was the sole survivor of a deadly ambush that tragically claimed the lives of two of his fellow officers.

💔 This heartbreaking yet inspiring story marks Alec’s first sit-down interview since returning to active duty.

🎙️ Hear firsthand how he faced the unimaginable—and found the strength to come back.

Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to the Journey
06:04 Alec's Path to Law Enforcement
11:57 The Day of the Incident
24:02 The Shooting Incident
36:06 Aftermath and Reflection
38:36 Survivor's Guilt and Personal Reflection
41:12 Training and Preparedness in Law Enforcement
45:50 The Impact of Critical Incidents
51:14 Honoring Fallen Officers
54:28 Building Community and Positive Relationships
01:01:51 The Journey to the Hall of Fame

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In this powerful and heart-wrenching episode, we take you deep into one of the most chilling cases in American criminal history — the first murders committed by the infamous BTK serial killer, Dennis Rader.

Episode 119 features an exclusive and emotional interview with Carmen Montoya, a brave survivor whose family, the Otero's, was brutally murdered in 1974 in Wichita, Kansas.

#TrueCrimePodcast #BTKKiller #OteroFamilyMurders#SerialKillerStories #MurderInvestigation #FamilyTragedy#ColdCaseFiles #JusticeForVictims

Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Housekeeping
01:04 Carmen Montoya's Story Begins
02:06 The Day of the Otero Family Murders
05:14 The Aftermath and Police Involvement
11:05 Life After the Tragedy
16:55 The Investigation and Suspects
22:51 The Arrest of Dennis Rader
28:03 Coping with the Past and Family Discussions
30:18 Navigating the Aftermath of Tragedy
33:09 Facing the Accused: Courtroom Experiences
35:52 Shared Grief: Connecting with Other Victims
37:58 The Illusion of Closure
39:54 Strength in Vulnerability
42:04 A Journey of Healing and Resilience

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👮‍♂️ Ralph Friedman served during the most dangerous era in New York City, assigned to the infamous 41st Precinct in the South Bronx – also known as Fort Apache – during the 1970s crime wave. This precinct was so notorious, it inspired the hit Hollywood movie "Fort Apache, The Bronx" starring Paul Newman.

🎖️ With hundreds of arrests, dozens of commendations, and an unmatched legacy, Detective Friedman shares intense real-life stories of high-risk arrests, undercover operations, and what it was like to patrol the most violent streets in NYC at the height of its crime epidemic.

Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to a Legend: Ralph Friedman
02:05 Ralph's Early Career and NYPD Journey
05:55 The Challenges of Policing in the 70s
12:12 The Evolution of Police Equipment and Training
17:59 Reflections on Modern Policing and Political Climate
24:51 The Evolution of Policing Practices
27:39 Accountability and the Changing Landscape of Law Enforcement
29:22 The Reality of Officer-Involved Shootings
32:34 A Life-Changing Incident: The Story of Cal Unger
40:36 Recognition and the Politics of Policing
48:10 Off-Duty Responsibilities and the Burden of the Badge
51:50 Mental Health and the Strain of Law Enforcement
52:07 The Unseen Struggles of Law Enforcement
54:11 A Life-Altering Incident: The Motorcycle Accident
58:05 The Dangers of Everyday Police Work
01:02:05 The Impact of Political Decisions on Policing
01:06:31 Legacy and Reflections on a Distinguished Career

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** SENSITIVE MATERIAL WARNING**

In this gripping episode, we sit down with Tyler Schwab, a true hero on the frontlines of the fight against human trafficking. His firsthand stories are harrowing, horrifying, and absolutely necessary to hear. Discover how Tyler is saving lives and bringing light to the darkest corners of this global crisis.

Don’t miss this powerful, eye-opening interview—raise awareness, share the truth, and be part of the solution.

Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Sponsorship Announcement
02:50 Understanding Human Trafficking
03:34 Personal Journey into Human Trafficking Awareness
09:39 The Horrors of Human Trafficking
15:03 The Role of Law Enforcement and Community
21:44 Libertas International's Mission and Methodology
27:34 The Satisfaction of Justice for Victims
34:03 The Joy of Consequences
35:32 Supporting Our Heroes: Organizations Making a Difference
37:30 The Impact of Abuse: Real Stories
38:04 Honoring Vulnerability: Stories of Healing
46:30 From Victims to Survivors: Long-term Impact
54:34 A New Mission: Helping Families in Crisis

Subscribe to GOLD SHIELDS now for the best True Crime experience with real life stories.

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In this jaw-dropping, emotional episode, we sit down with retired Detective Mario Oliveira, a true real-life hero who survived the unthinkable.

Shot six times at point-blank range and declared clinically dead three separate times, Mario’s story is a miracle of survival, courage, and resilience.

This isn’t just a police story—it’s a testament to human strength, the power of hope, and the bond of family.

🎙️ Hear how Detective Oliveira fought through his final breaths, how he leaned on faith and grit to survive, and how the mystical experience involving his grandmother will leave you speechless. You won’t believe it—it’s the kind of moment that gives you goosebumps and chills.

✅ Don’t miss this heart-pounding, tear-jerking episode filled with lessons on survival, faith, and the power of never giving up.

👉 Subscribe to GOLSD SHIELDS now for more true crime survivor stories, inspirational law enforcement interviews, and behind-the-scenes looks at the toughest cases in America.

Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction to the Journey
01:44 Mario Oliveira's Background and Career
02:43 The Investigation Begins
04:22 Uncovering the Loophole
06:51 The Ruse and the Encounter
11:55 The Confession and the Guns
20:08 The Decision to Flip
22:18 The Failed Operation
25:15 The Night of the Shooting
35:31 The Moment of Crisis
40:28 Facing Death: A Cop's Perspective
46:36 The Fight for Survival
50:35 The Hospital Experience
56:50 Miraculous Recovery and New Beginnings
01:07:12 A Mother's Love and Spiritual Connection
01:09:23 Life After Death: A Personal Experience
01:11:57 The Struggles of Recovery and Systemic Issues
01:17:46 Turning Pain into Purpose: Advocacy and Legislation
01:23:31 The Impact of a Life Saved: Dr. King's Role
01:25:39 The Journey to the Big Screen: A Story to Tell

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🔍 What makes a serial killer tick?

Dive deep into the dark psychology of criminal minds with forensic psychologist and criminal profiler Dr. Joni Johnston in this chilling episode

From Ted Bundy and Jeffrey Dahmer to David Berkowitz (Son of Sam) and Charles Manson, we uncover the twisted inner workings of some of the most notorious serial killers in history.

Dr. Johnston brings her expert insight into the patterns of psychopaths, the early warning signs of violent behavior, and what separates everyday criminals from pure evil. This is a true crime psychological breakdown you won’t hear anywhere else.

🧠 Whether you're a true crime junkie, psychology enthusiast, or just curious about what drives people to commit unspeakable acts, this episode will have you hooked from start to finish.

👉 Don’t miss Episode 115 of Gold Shields – hit Subscribe, Follow, and Share with fellow true crime fans!

🔔 Turn on Notifications so you never miss a deep dive into the darkest corners of the human mind.

Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:54 The Fascination with Forensic Psychology
05:53 Understanding Serial Killers: The Psychological Perspective
09:57 Childhood Indicators and the McDonald Triad
13:05 Insights from Interviewing Offenders
16:56 Patterns in Serial Killer Behavior
20:50 The Chilling Nature of Evil
25:03 Stalking and Social Media Concerns
26:38 The Dangers of Technology and Social Media
28:04 Obsession and Stalking: A Psychological Perspective
33:23 Understanding Serial Killers and Unsolved Cases
39:20 The Impact of True Crime Media
44:12 Transparency in Investigations and Family Involvement
47:12 Writing and Researching Serial Killers

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🏀 🇺🇸 Prepare to be inspired beyond words, as we sit down with Danielle Green — a true American hero, Purple Heart recipient, Iraq War veteran, and former Notre Dame basketball star.

💥 In this unforgettable episode, Danielle shares her incredible journey from dominating the court at Notre Dame to the battlefield of Iraq, where a life-changing injury would test her strength like never before. But Danielle’s story doesn’t end there — it begins again with her powerful work with the Wounded Warrior Project, helping veterans across the country find hope, healing, and purpose.

🎧 Whether you're a fan of military hero stories, inspirational women, or warrior mindset conversations, this episode will leave you breathless and uplifted.

🦁 Danielle Green is the definition of resilience, courage, and the heart of a lioness. Don’t miss this must-hear moment in podcasting.

Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
03:07 Danielle Green's Humble Beginnings
06:09 The Journey to Notre Dame
09:10 Overcoming Challenges at Notre Dame
12:01 Transitioning from Basketball to Military Service
14:53 Deployment to Iraq and Life-Changing Events
18:00 The Day of the Injury
21:03 Aftermath and Recovery
24:14 Significance of the Wedding Rings
34:53 The Power of Teamwork and Sacrifice
37:01 Resilience Through Adversity
38:30 Faith as a Guiding Force
40:16 The Journey of Recovery
42:17 Wounded Warrior Project: A Lifeline
44:52 Transitioning to Civilian Life
46:30 Finding Purpose and Community
49:52 Current Engagements and Future Aspirations
52:59 Living Life to the Fullest
55:49 Legacy and Impact

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