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ATO: BRIDGING THE DIVIDE

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Rating
★★★★★
5
from
139 reviews
This podcast has
195 episodes
Language
English
Explicit
Yes
Date created
2021/08/26
Latest episode
2026/10/22
Average duration
81 min.
Release period
7 days

Description

The Dallas Assist the Officer Foundation in Dallas Texas was created in 1999 to assist the first responder community financially if they suffered injury, illness or death. Now the ATO is providing a stage to hear their incredible stories so we can learn, heal and honor those who served before and after us. Take a journey with the ATO hosts as we provide the loyal listener a peek behind the curtain of the very complex and trauma filled first responder world. Contact us at [email protected] Instagram: ato_bridging_divide ATODALLAS.org #Dallas #Texascrime #firstresponders #mentalhealth #policestories #firefighters #firstresponderpodcast #wellness #police #policepodcasts #coplife #policecriticalincidents #truecrime #policedetectives #SWAT #DallasSWAT #truecrimejunkie #truecrimeobsessed #crime #murder #truecrimefan #truepolicestories #podcasts #investigations #murdercase #activeshooter #detective #dallaspolice #lawenforcement #lawenforcementpodcast #policepodcast

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Podcast episodes

Check latest episodes from ATO: BRIDGING THE DIVIDE podcast


A Message from the Dallas Wellness Unit: Dallas Mounted Unit Patrick Burke and the Story of the “Backpack"
2026/10/22
We are proud to sit down with Dallas PD Mounted Unit Patrick Burke as he tells us the story of the "backpack". The Dallas Wellness Unit puts on a first responder health, in honor of David Clark #9815 to benefit the first responder's community.  Patrick Burke proudly serves in the best Mounted Unit in the country and had to be talked into participating in last year's fair. What got him into the door?  An unlikely raffle item that changed his life forever. We hope his story inspires others to walk through the Dallas Police Association's door on November 6th to take part in our free resources.  Please take an hour or two to make your health a priority on Friday, November 6. The DPD Wellness Unit has secured numerous FREE essential screenings and services specific to your needs. To name a few: - Full Blood panels (results onsite) - Cardiovascular risk assessment (ultrasounds) - Liver Screenings - Thyroid scans - Kidney Screenings - Body composition screening - Complimentary B12 shots, discounted IV therapy - Complimentary 3D foot scans - 10-15 Minute muscle therapy treatments - Self Care Device Demo (massage gun, infrared therapy, compression therapy) - Resetting the CNS - Mammograms - EKGs - Health Meal Prep samples - Chiropractic information/services Also, for veterans there will be the following services/information provided: - Home Loan info for Veterans - Assistance with Disability Claims - Health Care Enrollment Resources - Resources- Equine Counseling - Wounded Warrior with be there with resources
Episode 140 (Ret.) Dallas Police Major Mark Harris: The Twelfth Step
2026/10/18
Retired Dallas Police Major Mark Harris spent a career serving others, confronting danger, and carrying the weight of responsibility. But eventually, he faced a battle that no badge, rank, or years of service could shield him from—the battle within himself.  The demon in the bottle became a fight he could no longer win alone, and Mark had to find the courage to confront his demons, silence his pride, and reach out for help. His journey toward sobriety began with the difficult realization that asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but an act of courage that can save a life.  Today, Mark uses the lessons forged through his own struggles to become a voice for those still trapped in the darkness of addiction, offering hope to those who may believe there is no way out. Because recovery is not simply about finding your way back to yourself; it is about reaching back for someone who is still fighting to find their way.  The Twelfth Step is service to others—turning personal pain into purpose, hard-earned lessons into hope, and the battle you once fought alone into a lifeline for someone who needs to know they are not alone. Special guest host Dallas PD Assistant Chief Jeremy Foy.
When Dallas Calls: Dallas PD K9 Sgt. Joshua Shipp
2026/10/07
When Dallas calls, the men and women of the Dallas Police Department step forward. They leave behind their families, embrace the unknown, and run toward the moments most people spend their lives hoping to avoid. They do so with courage forged through sacrifice, a commitment tested by every shift, and a promise to protect a city that depends on them. Behind every patrol car, every detective's investigation, every tactical operation, and every specialized unit is a team of professionals whose dedication forms the backbone of one of America's most historic police departments. In this limited series, Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux sits down alongside the officers, investigators, and specialists who answer that call every day. Together, they pull back the curtain on the units, the missions, the challenges, and the victories that define modern policing in Dallas. Through candid conversations and firsthand stories, viewers will experience the people behind the badge and the unwavering commitment that drives them to serve. These are the stories of those who answer when Dallas calls—because protecting Dallas is more than a profession. It is a calling. Today we sit down with Sgt. Josh Shipp of the Dallas K9 Unit.
Episode 139 Dallas HSTF1 Narcotics Detective David Roach #9150: The Shadow of Success
2026/09/30
Today we present Dallas Narcotics Detective David Roach, who has nearly twenty years with the Dallas Police Department. A career built on action, sacrifice, and the relentless pursuit of those who chose to poison the streets. David Roach came to Dallas from Missouri with one mission: chase dope and arrest bad guys. But somewhere along the way, the mission became more than a job. David developed an addiction—not to drugs, but to action, to the fight, to the pursuit, and to being the best. Because success has a price. The more you accomplish, the higher the standard you set for yourself. The more people expect from you, the more pressure you carry to deliver. And when you become accustomed to winning, failure isn't just disappointing—it becomes something you fear. Behind every arrest, every case, every high five and every measure of success is a cost few people ever see. This is David Roach's story—not just about chasing the bad guys, but about what happens when the pursuit of being the best begins demanding something in return.
A Message from the Host with Dr. Matthew Housson: Bridging Hope
2026/09/24
Today, we sit down with the amazing people at The Housson Center in Dallas, Texas—a team dedicated to helping both adults and children navigate some of life’s most difficult challenges. For more than 30 years, Dr. Matthew Housson and his team have provided exemplary care grounded in the powerful connection between the mind and body, science, and evidence-based psychology practices. And that commitment to innovation continues today. The Housson Center is proud to be among the first clinics in the DFW area to offer RTM Therapy—Reconsolidation of Traumatic Memories, an innovative, research-backed approach designed to help individuals find relief from the lasting effects of trauma and PTSD. Unlike traditional trauma therapies that can require individuals to repeatedly revisit painful experiences, RTM uses guided visualization and memory-reconsolidation techniques designed to change how traumatic memories are stored and experienced. The process allows clients to remain calm and in control without intentionally re-experiencing the distress associated with the original trauma. But beyond the science, the techniques, and the decades of experience, this is ultimately a story about people—professionals who have dedicated their lives to understanding the human mind, helping families, and giving people a path forward when life has left them carrying something they never asked to carry. Today, we step inside The Housson Center to meet the people behind the mission and explore what it truly means to care for the whole person. Fundraiser: Mending Minds Walk 5K Date: Saturday, Oct. 3 8:00 AM: Registration 8:30 AM: 5K Run 8:45 AM: 1K Fun Walk Location: Smith Park, 4000 Greenbriar, University Park To register click on the link below https://runsignup.com/Race/TX/UniversityPark/MendingMindsWalk2024
When Dallas Calls: Dallas Assaults Detective Darren Burch
2026/09/23
When Dallas calls, the men and women of the Dallas Police Department step forward. They leave behind their families, embrace the unknown, and run toward the moments most people spend their lives hoping to avoid. They do so with courage forged through sacrifice, a commitment tested by every shift, and a promise to protect a city that depends on them. Behind every patrol car, every detective's investigation, every tactical operation, and every specialized unit is a team of professionals whose dedication forms the backbone of one of America's most historic police departments. In this limited series, Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux sits down alongside the officers, investigators, and specialists who answer that call every day. Together, they pull back the curtain on the units, the missions, the challenges, and the victories that define modern policing in Dallas. Through candid conversations and firsthand stories, viewers will experience the people behind the badge and the unwavering commitment that drives them to serve. These are the stories of those who answer when Dallas calls—because protecting Dallas is more than a profession. It is a calling. Today we sit down with Assaults Detective Darren Burch.
When Dallas Calls: Dallas PD Northeast Patrol Sr. Cpl. Ernesto Elizondo
2026/09/18
When Dallas calls, the men and women of the Dallas Police Department step forward. They leave behind their families, embrace the unknown, and run toward the moments most people spend their lives hoping to avoid. They do so with courage forged through sacrifice, a commitment tested by every shift, and a promise to protect a city that depends on them. Behind every patrol car, every detective's investigation, every tactical operation, and every specialized unit is a team of professionals whose dedication forms the backbone of one of America's most historic police departments. In this limited series, Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux sits down alongside the officers, investigators, and specialists who answer that call every day. Together, they pull back the curtain on the units, the missions, the challenges, and the victories that define modern policing in Dallas. Through candid conversations and firsthand stories, viewers will experience the people behind the badge and the unwavering commitment that drives them to serve. These are the stories of those who answer when Dallas calls—because protecting Dallas is more than a profession. It is a calling. Today we sit down with Ernesto Elizondo of Northeast Patrol. Dallas Patrol is the backbone of the Dallas Police Department and Eli has created a legacy of young officers he has trained and mentored.
Episode 138 Dallas Robbery Detective Meagan Mulvihill: Symphony of Collaboration
2026/09/13
Today on Bridging the Divide, we step inside a world most people will never see—the world of robbery investigations—and meet the woman behind the badge, Dallas Police Detective Meagan Mulvihill. From growing up and the experiences that shaped the woman she would become, to finding her calling in law enforcement and joining the Dallas Police Department, Meagan takes us on a journey through the moments that built her life and ultimately led her to investigations. But her story doesn’t end with the badge. Along the way, she became a wife and took on what she calls her most important role of all—motherhood. Now, as a robbery detective, she enters a world where every case is a puzzle, every detail matters, and justice is found by connecting the dots others may never see. Today, we go beyond the badge, beyond the cases, and into the life of the woman who has made a career out of finding the truth. This is the world of Detective Meagan Mulvihill.
Episode 137 (Ret.) Drug Enforcement Administration Richard T Sanchez: Rising from the Ashes
2026/09/06
Some lives are shaped by opportunity. Others are forged in fire. Richard Sanchez spent more than 21 years with the DEA, rising to Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Europe Division and leading international efforts against some of the world’s most powerful criminal organizations. But his greatest battle began long before the badge. Raised in Floresville, Texas, by his grandparents, Richard grew up in a world marked by addiction, crime, and circumstances no child should endure.   Through faith, resilience, and an unbreakable will, he transformed that pain into purpose. Today, as the President and CEO of One Team Global, an author, and a law enforcement peer coach, Richard dedicates his life to helping others rise from the ashes—and proving that your past may shape you, but it does not have to define you.   Home | OneTeamGlobal
Episode 136 Dallas Police IAD Detective Conner Smith #11689
2026/08/26
*****Trigger Warning***** This episode discusses the tragic incident on February 13th, 2021, when a drunk driver hit and killed Dallas Police Officer, Mitchell Penton.  Today, we sit down with a genuinely good man, a proud Texan, and a Dallas detective who has carried more than most people will ever know—Detective Conner Smith. His journey would take him into the middle of a natural catastrophe and, later, to the scene of an unimaginable tragedy as he responded to a fallen Dallas officer. Those moments leave a mark. Some wounds cannot be seen, and some memories never truly leave us. But tragedy does not define who we are. Sometimes, it changes us. Sometimes, it breaks us open and forces us to discover a purpose we never knew we had. Conner’s story is a raw and deeply personal look at what happens when trauma is carried in silence—how it can slowly consume the mind, the heart, and the person behind the badge. But this is also a story about courage. The courage to admit you are hurting. The courage to ask for help. And the courage to believe that healing is still possible. Alongside his wife, Kayla, Conner takes us beyond the badge and into the moments that changed him forever. This is not a story about tragedy. It is a story about what comes after it—and the strength it takes to stand back up, find your purpose, and become a source of hope for someone else who may be silently fighting the same battle.   Critical Incidents Discussed: Hurricane Harvey August 2017   Dallas Police Officer Mitchell Penton End of Watch: Saturday, February 13, 2021 Officer Mitchell Penton was struck and killed by a vehicle operated by an intoxicated driver at about 1:45 am. He was working at the scene of a vehicle collision in the northbound lanes of the North Central Expressway at Walnut Hill Lane. He was securing traffic with the emergency lights from his patrol car when a vehicle driven by an intoxicated driver, traveling at a high rate of speed, hit the back of his patrol car. The collision pushed the patrol car into Officer Penton. Officer Penton was transported to Baylor University Medical Center when he died from his injuries.
When Dallas Calls: Dallas PD South Central Patrol Sr. Cpl. Mari Cartas
2026/08/16
When Dallas calls, the men and women of the Dallas Police Department step forward. They leave behind their families, embrace the unknown, and run toward the moments most people spend their lives hoping to avoid. They do so with courage forged through sacrifice, a commitment tested by every shift, and a promise to protect a city that depends on them. Behind every patrol car, every detective's investigation, every tactical operation, and every specialized unit is a team of professionals whose dedication forms the backbone of one of America's most historic police departments. In this limited series, Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux sits down alongside the officers, investigators, and specialists who answer that call every day. Together, they pull back the curtain on the units, the missions, the challenges, and the victories that define modern policing in Dallas. Through candid conversations and firsthand stories, viewers will experience the people behind the badge and the unwavering commitment that drives them to serve. These are the stories of those who answer when Dallas calls—because protecting Dallas is more than a profession. It is a calling. Today we sit down with Mariana (Mari) Cartas-Santiago of South Central Patrol. Dallas Patrol is the backbone of the Dallas Police Department and Mari is one of the bright new stars of DPD.
When Dallas Calls: Dallas Vice Detective Rebecca Mack
2026/08/13
When Dallas calls, the men and women of the Dallas Police Department step forward. They leave behind their families, embrace the unknown, and run toward the moments most people spend their lives hoping to avoid. They do so with courage forged through sacrifice, a commitment tested by every shift, and a promise to protect a city that depends on them. Behind every patrol car, every detective's investigation, every tactical operation, and every specialized unit is a team of professionals whose dedication forms the backbone of one of America's most historic police departments. In this limited series, Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux sits down alongside the officers, investigators, and specialists who answer that call every day. Together, they pull back the curtain on the units, the missions, the challenges, and the victories that define modern policing in Dallas. Through candid conversations and firsthand stories, viewers will experience the people behind the badge and the unwavering commitment that drives them to serve. These are the stories of those who answer when Dallas calls—because protecting Dallas is more than a profession. It is a calling. Today we sit down with Vice Detective Rebecca Mack
When Dallas Calls: Dallas Mounted Unit Tracy Morgan
2026/08/09
When Dallas calls, the men and women of the Dallas Police Department step forward. They leave behind their families, embrace the unknown, and run toward the moments most people spend their lives hoping to avoid. They do so with courage forged through sacrifice, a commitment tested by every shift, and a promise to protect a city that depends on them. Behind every patrol car, every detective's investigation, every tactical operation, and every specialized unit is a team of professionals whose dedication forms the backbone of one of America's most historic police departments. In this limited series, Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux sits down alongside the officers, investigators, and specialists who answer that call every day. Together, they pull back the curtain on the units, the missions, the challenges, and the victories that define modern policing in Dallas. Through candid conversations and firsthand stories, viewers will experience the people behind the badge and the unwavering commitment that drives them to serve. These are the stories of those who answer when Dallas calls—because protecting Dallas is more than a profession. It is a calling. Today we sit with a representative of the great Mounted Unit, Tracy Morgan.
When Dallas Calls: Sergeant Eric Hearn of Dallas Homicide Unit
2026/08/03
When Dallas calls, the men and women of the Dallas Police Department step forward. They leave behind their families, embrace the unknown, and run toward the moments most people spend their lives hoping to avoid. They do so with courage forged through sacrifice, a commitment tested by every shift, and a promise to protect a city that depends on them. Behind every patrol car, every detective's investigation, every tactical operation, and every specialized unit is a team of professionals whose dedication forms the backbone of one of America's most historic police departments. In this limited series, Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux sits down alongside the officers, investigators, and specialists who answer that call every day. Together, they pull back the curtain on the units, the missions, the challenges, and the victories that define modern policing in Dallas. Through candid conversations and firsthand stories, viewers will experience the people behind the badge and the unwavering commitment that drives them to serve. These are the stories of those who answer when Dallas calls—because protecting Dallas is more than a profession. It is a calling. Today we sit with Homicide Sergeant Eric Hearn of the Dallas Homicide Unit to highlight this historic unit.
Geaux Time with Dallas Chief Comeaux and NFL Legend Charles Haley: The Active Sport of Leadership
2026/07/19
Some of life's greatest lessons are not learned in classrooms—they are forged in locker rooms, tested on the battlefield of competition, and refined through the responsibility of leading others. In this powerful episode of Geaux Time with Chief Comeaux, Dallas Police Chief Daniel Comeaux unveils the philosophy behind his new book, The Active Sport of Leadership, exploring the many dimensions of leadership through the universal language of sports. From building championship cultures to developing resilient teams, Chief Comeaux reveals why leadership is not a position to hold, but an active pursuit that demands discipline, sacrifice, accountability, and the courage to inspire others to become more than they believed possible. Joining him as co-host is five-time Super Bowl Champion and NFL Hall of Famer Charles Haley, whose extraordinary career was defined by an unrelenting pursuit of greatness and an uncompromising standard of excellence. Together, they draw striking parallels between the gridiron and the front lines of leadership, sharing hard-earned lessons on perseverance, culture, and the immeasurable value of mentorship. This is more than a conversation about winning championships or writing books—it's an exploration of how true leaders build legacies by shaping people, creating purpose, and inspiring the next generation to carry the torch long after the final whistle has blown. To purchase The Active Sport of Leadership go to : https://www.dccbooks.com/

Podcast reviews

Read ATO: BRIDGING THE DIVIDE podcast reviews


5 out of 5
139 reviews
★★★★★
Bob__10 2026/06/02
A must
Wide variety of guests on the show from current officers to legends that are now retired. Great listen and highly recommended for 1st responders, anyo...
★★★★★
ServiceB4Self98 2026/02/17
Best First Responder podcast
I am in the process of listening to all the episodes. As a 33 year LEO spanning local and federal agencies, your stories of tragedy and triumph are wh...
★★★★★
big Dik nik 2025/05/11
Episode #7752
As a EOD Tech who’s currently in recovery, it was absolutely inspirational to hear Andre’s story. As a child, I watched A&E and was driven to serve th...
★★★★★
Shlamalamadingdong123 2024/12/09
Chief Garcia’s “Goodbye” episode was great, they all are!
Unfortunately I never had the privilege of meeting or working for Dallas Police Chief Eddie Garcia, but I have zero doubt it would have been an honor ...
★★★★★
WCPod 2024/06/11
Love!
With all the unrest in the world this is such a refreshing and heartfelt show. I appreciate all the voices and hard work coming together for this awes...
★★★★★
Harley1110 2024/05/30
Amazing!
Love this amazingly fascinating podcast! So glad I found it. So much knowledge and learning behind the scenes. Absolutely loving it and can’t wait to ...
★★★★★
 2024/01/05
Fascinating Behind-the-Scenes Look at Life as a First Responder
ATO: Bridging The Divide podcast pulls back the curtain on life as a first responder, and it is fascinating. It originates from the Dallas Police De...
★★★★★
Be A Coffee Bean 2023/12/21
The Most Honest Depiction of Law Enforcement
Recently, I was turned onto this podcast by a member of Dallas SWAT. It was after I spoke to SWAT to thank them for saving my life when they pulled me...
★★★★★
Greg Garcia 2023/06/29
This show makes me laugh, and it brings tears to my eyes.
There are a lot of difficult topics to touch on in the law enforcement world, and this show does an outstanding job presenting them, oft times from th...
★★★★★
JenDrew4 2023/06/04
Episode 70
Episode 70 was emotional and well done. I shared the podcast with a family member who is a police officer hoping she may consider reaching out to a c...
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