Episodes

  • GOLD SHIELDS EPISODE 144: CRIMINOLOGIST N. LEIGH HUNT: INSIDE THE MIND OF CRIMINALS, MASS SHOOTERS & AMERICA’S DARKEST CASES
    Nov 14 2025

    We hope you enjoy this episode of Gold Shields, let us know how we did.

    Get ready for one of the most powerful, eye-opening, and unforgettable episodes yet. This week, we welcome the extraordinary N. Leigh Hunt—a renowned criminologist, award-winning author, and one of the world’s leading experts on mass shootings and violent offender behavior.

    In this Explosive Episode, Nick breaks down:

    🔥 The origins of the In Esto Podcast Series—his groundbreaking True-Crime investigative project that digs into real cases with unparalleled depth.

    🔥 The first documented school shooter incident in the United States—the 1979 San Diego school shooting—exploring the shooter’s motives, behavioral trajectory, and how the event shaped the nation’s understanding of school violence.

    And so much more.....

    🔥 Don't miss this insightful interview from the U.K.

    CONNECT WITH NICK LEIGH HUNT:

    www.nleighhunt.com

    @nleighhunt (IG)

    N Leigh Hunt (LI)

    @nleighhunt (X)

    www.Amazon.com (Book: I Don't Like Monday's)

    Timestamps:
    00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
    02:39 Nick Leigh Hunt's Journey into True Crime
    06:26 Comparing True Crime in the UK and the US
    10:53 The Nature of Violence and Human Aggression
    12:23 Brenda Spencer: The First School Shooter
    17:52 Understanding the Mind of a School Shooter
    21:44 The Complexity of Human Nature
    29:42 The Adriana Hutto Case: A Tragic Drowning
    35:43 The Flaws in the Justice System
    39:30 The Role of Evidence and Witness Testimony
    44:42 Bias in Investigations
    50:59 The Importance of Objectivity in Law Enforcement
    57:56 The Emotional Toll of Crime Investigation


    SUBSCRIBE to Youtube.com/@GoldShields
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    Visit us at https://thegoldshieldshow.com
    SOCIAL MEDIA:
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    linkedin.com/in/tom-smith-09676a22b

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    1 hr and 18 mins
  • GOLD SHIELDS EPISODE 143: THE 1975 FRAUNCES TAVERN BOMBING: A SON’S FIGHT FOR JUSTICE
    Nov 7 2025

    We hope you enjoy this episode of Gold Shields, let us know how we did.

    In this gripping episode we sit down with Joe Connor, whose father, Frank Connor, was tragically killed in the Fraunces Tavern bombing on January 24, 1975, one of the deadliest Terrorist Attacks in New York City history.

    Hear Joe’s powerful and emotional story of loss, terrorism, and resilience, and how the search for justice has defined his life for nearly five decades. This true story exposes the pain left behind by political violence and the strength of a family determined to never forget.

    Also, hear how the heartbreak deepened years later when several of the convicted FALN Terrorists were granted clemency by President Bill Clinton, with support from Hillary Clinton and Attorney General Eric Holder — a decision that left Joe and his family outraged and betrayed.

    👉 Don't miss this powerful account of a day which changed Joe's life and the lives of New Yorkers.

    Connect with Joe Connor:

    📍 JosephConnor (FB)

    📍 Book: Shattered Lives: Overcoming the Fraunces Tavern Terror

    Amazon.com

    Timestamps:
    00:00 Introduction and Sponsorships
    02:16 The Impact of the FALN Bombing
    09:57 Joe Connor's Personal Story
    14:33 The FALN's History and Political Connections
    20:44 Clemency Controversy and Political Ramifications
    25:44 The Legacy of Terrorism and Forgiveness
    31:20 The Ongoing Fight Against Terrorism and Political Manipulation
    35:51 Understanding Anger and Loss
    39:07 Personal Accounts of 9/11
    51:16 Legislative Efforts and Challenges
    54:10 Books and Documentaries: Sharing Stories
    01:00:01 The Fight for Justice and Recognition

    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

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    1 hr and 18 mins
  • GOLD SHIELDS EPISODE 142: FRONTLINE HERO: COMBAT TRAUMA NURSE NIKKI SELBY; LIFE, DEATH & COURAGE IN AFGHANISTAN
    Nov 1 2025

    We hope you enjoy this episode of Gold Shields, let us know how we did.

    In this powerful episode, we sit down with Combat Trauma Nurse and Navy Veteran Nikki Selby, who shares her extraordinary story from the frontlines of war.

    As a combat trauma nurse deployed to Afghanistan, Nikki treated severely wounded soldiers under fire, saving countless lives in some of the most dangerous conditions imaginable. She opens up about what it takes to train for combat medical deployment, the intense pressure of emergency battlefield medicine, and the emotional toll of caring for injured warriors in a war zone.

    💥 This is a must-watch episode for anyone who wants to understand the true cost of combat, the resilience of military medics, and the sacrifice of our service members.

    Hear firsthand accounts of wounded soldiers and the courageous stories of survival from the nurse who treated them on the battlefield. Nikki’s experience is raw, real, and unforgettable.

    TimeStamps:
    00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
    03:11 Nikki Selby's Journey to the Navy
    05:58 Becoming a Combat Medic
    09:12 Overcoming Challenges in a Male-Dominated Field
    12:02 Transitioning to Officer and Nursing
    15:01 Experiences in Combat and Medical Care
    18:02 The Importance of Mental Resilience
    22:11 Challenges in Combat Medical Training
    29:28 Mental Resilience in War
    37:50 Life After Military Service
    45:39 Volunteering During COVID-19
    46:10 The Eerie Silence of New York City
    47:03 Field Hospital Experience and Skepticism
    48:20 Transition to Executive Protection
    50:31 The Glamorous Yet Grueling Life of Executive Protection
    51:57 From Trauma Nursing to Aesthetics
    53:29 The Hunter Seven Foundation: A Mission to Help Veterans
    01:00:05 Passion for Service and Advocacy


    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

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    1 hr and 19 mins
  • GOLD SHIELDS EPISODE 141: TOM RIZZO: INSIDE ON PATROL:LIVE AND THE IVORY TOWER OF POLICE LEADERSHIP
    Oct 24 2025

    We hope you enjoy this episode of Gold Shields, let us know how we did.

    In this powerful new episode we sit down with Tom Rizzo, Captain and star of the hit television series On Patrol: Live, for an exclusive and inspiring conversation you don’t want to miss!

    Tom opens up about his incredible Law Enforcement career, his groundbreaking leadership training course “The Ivory Tower,” and he gives fans a rare behind-the-scenes look at what it’s really like filming On Patrol: Live.

    From his early days on patrol to becoming a respected Police Captain and National TV personality, Tom shares how he built a reputation for leadership excellence, tactical expertise, and motivational mentorship that continues to impact officers across the country.

    Connect withTom Rizzo:

    @tomrizzo70

    www.thomasrizzo.com

    Timestamps:
    00:00 Introduction to Gold Shields and Guest Introduction
    03:02 Tom Rizzo's Journey in Law Enforcement
    06:11 Leadership Challenges and Personal Growth
    08:53 Mistakes and Learning in Law Enforcement
    12:02 The Importance of Effective Leadership
    15:01 Training for Leadership and Human Connection
    17:58 The Human Element in Policing
    21:05 Navigating Modern Policing Challenges
    23:56 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
    28:28 The Importance of Mental Health in Law Enforcement
    31:49 Transitioning to Media: A New Chapter
    35:59 The Power of Personal Stories
    39:49 Advocacy and Support for Law Enforcement
    45:41 Closing Thoughts and Future Endeavors

    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

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    1 hr and 1 min
  • SPECIAL EPISODE – GOLD SHIELDS GOES LIVE; A NIGHT TO REMEMBER!
    Oct 18 2025

    We hope you enjoy this episode of Gold Shields, let us know how we did.

    We're proud to release a special new episode of GOLD SHIELDS – recorded LIVE from the legendary Don Roberto's Italian Restaurant in Staten Island during an unforgettable Cigar Charity Night! 🍷🍝💨

    🎤 An Epic Collaboration:

    This exclusive evening brought together Joe Imperatrice, Founder of Blue Lives Matter NYC, and the Legendary Chazz Palminteri, supporting his heartfelt cause, The Child Reach Foundation. 💙👮‍♂️🎭

    ✨ We were honored to be invited to broadcast our show LIVE from this incredible event – where cigars, charity, and conversation lit up the night! 🔥

    🎙️ INSIDE THE EPISODE:

    A one-on-one interview with the iconic Chazz Palminteri – actor, director, and passionate philanthropist

    Powerful stories from Law Enforcement advocates, a legendary artist, the owner of Don Roberto's, and much more.

    Behind-the-scenes access to one of Staten Island's most exclusive fundraising events

    🎤 SUPPORT OUR GUESTS:

    📍 www.bluelivesmatternyc.org

    📍 www.childreachfoundation.org

    📍 www.Magalangelo.VIP

    📍 www.donrobertonyc.com

    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

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    38 mins
  • GOLD SHIELDS EPISODE 139: POLICE SUICIDE: THE TRAGIC STORY OF LUCAS SIZEMORE & THE LUCAS CRUSADE TO SAVE OFFICERS’ LIVES
    Oct 13 2025

    We hope you enjoy this episode of Gold Shields, let us know how we did.

    💔 Lucas' story is not just heartbreaking — it’s a call to action.

    ⚠️ Every 57 hours, a Police Officer dies by suicide in the U.S. — a stat we cannot ignore.

    🔵 This episode we delivers one of the most emotional and important interviews we’ve ever recorded. This is a MUST-WATCH for anyone in Law Enforcement, with family on the job, or simply concerned about the unseen battles our heroes face.

    In this powerful episode, we sit down with Brian Sizemore, father of Lucas Sizemore, a dedicated Police Officer whose tragic and heartbreaking death by suicide shook his family, community, and the Law Enforcement world.

    Brian courageously shares Lucas’ story — not just the pain, but the purpose that rose from the tragedy: Lucas Crusade, a movement built to fight the rising epidemic of Police Officer suicides and the stigma surrounding mental health in Law Enforcement.

    Joining us is Jared Murphey, Acting Deputy Assistant Director of HSI (Homeland Security Investigations), who brings deep insight into the systemic issues facing officers today , and his vital role in Lucas Crusade.

    Timestamps:
    00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage
    00:50 The Importance of Wellness in Law Enforcement
    01:49 Introducing Lucas Sizemore and His Journey
    02:57 Lucas's Career Aspirations and Internships
    04:09 Life as a Police Officer in Atlanta
    05:08 The Day Everything Changed
    05:55 The Aftermath and Establishing the Foundation
    34:08 The Call to Action: Honoring Lucas
    37:12 Reflections on Loss and Support
    38:20 Transforming Tragedy into Purpose
    42:44 Understanding the Mental Health Crisis in Law Enforcement
    45:44 Introducing Lucas's Crusade: A Mission for Change
    52:26 Building a Supportive Community for Officers
    55:30 The Relay Run: A Symbol of Unity and Awareness
    01:00:53 Continuing the Conversation: A Call to Action

    SUBSCRIBE to Youtube.com/@GoldShields
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    Visit us at https://thegoldshieldshow.com
    SOCIAL MEDIA:
    https://www.instagram.com/thegoldshieldshow/
    https://www.facebook.com/THEGOLDSHIELDSHOW/
    linkedin.com/in/tom-smith-09676a22b

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    1 hr and 19 mins
  • GOLD SHIELDS EPISODE 138: THE GOLD CLUB TAKEDOWN – SEX, POWER, AND THE FBI FEATURING RETIRED FBI AGENT MARK SEWELL
    Oct 3 2025

    We hope you enjoy this episode of Gold Shields, let us know how we did.

    In Episode 138, we sit down with retired FBI Special Agent Mark Sewell, the man who led one of the largest Mafia investigations in U.S. history—the explosive takedown of The Gold Club in Atlanta.

    💥 The Gold Club Case wasn't just about a strip club—it was a multimillion-dollar criminal empire involving organized crime, public corruption, money laundering, sex trafficking, and celebrity clients. From mobsters and athletes to powerful businessmen, The Gold Club was a front for decades of illegal operations—until Mark Sewell and the FBI shut it down.

    🔎 In this high-impact true crime episode, Agent Sewell reveals exclusive behind-the-scenes stories, from wiretaps to undercover ops, exposing how sex, money, and power created a criminal dynasty—one that collapsed under the FBI’s pressure.

    🎖️ PLUS: Don’t miss his insights on Stolen Valor cases, where fake heroes are exposed and justice is served.

    Timestamps:
    00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
    03:00 Mark Sewell's Background and Transition to the FBI
    06:01 The Formation of the Organized Crime Squad in Atlanta
    09:03 The Gambino Crime Family and the Gold Club Case
    12:01 The Unique Landscape of Atlanta's Strip Clubs
    15:00 Criminal Activities at the Gold Club
    17:54 Credit Card Fraud and Other Crimes
    20:54 Prostitution and High-Profile Clients
    25:53 The Gold Club Investigation Begins
    28:01 Money Flow and Organized Crime Connections
    30:39 Informants and Trial Strategies
    34:30 Marketing Tactics of the Gold Club
    35:02 Drug Use and Management's Negligence
    36:16 Deciding When to Take Down the Case
    39:02 The Grand Jury Process and Arrests
    41:08 Defense Strategies and Legal Challenges
    44:01 Credibility and Testimony in Court
    47:51 The Rise of Stolen Valor Cases
    54:54 Investigating Military Impersonation
    01:01:10 The Impact of Stolen Valor on Society
    01:05:55 Mark Sewell's Journey and Insights

    SUBSCRIBE to Youtube.com/@GoldShields
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    Visit us at https://thegoldshieldshow.com
    SOCIAL MEDIA:
    https://www.instagram.com/thegoldshieldshow/
    https://www.facebook.com/THEGOLDSHIELDSHOW/
    linkedin.com/in/tom-smith-09676a22b

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    1 hr and 22 mins
  • GOLD SHIELDS EPISODE 137; UNDERCOVER IN SIN CITY: THE REAL DANGER WITH JENN BENJAMINS
    Sep 26 2025

    We hope you enjoy this episode of Gold Shields, let us know how we did.

    💥 Las Vegas. Sex. Drugs. Rock & Roll. And one badass undercover operator in the middle of it all. 💥

    In this explosive episode of GOLD SHIELDS, we sit down with elite undercover operator Jenn Benjamins, who worked deep inside some of the most dangerous criminal networks on the Las Vegas Strip. From infiltrating drug rings to dismantling human trafficking operations, Jenn opens up about the high-stakes world of undercover police work—where one wrong move can mean never coming home.

    Jenn is also giving back with her training of the next generation of female undercover operatives through her company: CovertBlueLLC.com

    👩‍✈️ Jenn Benjamins is not just surviving in a man's world—she’s reshaping it. As one of the most effective female undercover officers in Law Enforcement, she now leads real-world training programs for women entering the field of covert operations.

    TimeStamps:
    00:00 Introduction to the Show and Guest
    01:10 Jen Benjamins: A Unique Perspective on Undercover Work
    02:06 Journey to Law Enforcement: Jen's Background
    06:01 Transitioning to Undercover Work: The Call to Vice
    09:48 First Experiences in Undercover Operations
    16:07 The Changing Landscape of Prostitution and Vice
    19:59 The Role of Informants in Undercover Work
    24:57 Expanding Roles: From Vice to Narcotics Operations
    30:03 The Relationship with Risk in Undercover Work
    30:13 The Risks of Undercover Work
    33:51 Deep Undercover Operations
    35:13 Pucker Moments in the Field
    48:47 The Mental Toll of Undercover Work
    53:57 Creating a Legacy: Covert Blue LLC

    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

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    1 hr and 15 mins