CHP Behind the Badge

Join us as California Transportation Secretary Toks Omishakin shares his journey in public service, discusses the future of transportation in California, and highlights the importance of collaboration in keeping our communities connected and safe. 🎧 Behind the Badge gives listeners an inside look at the people and programs that make the CHP one of the nation’s leading law enforcement agencies.

From Fresno to the skies above California, Sergeant Chris Barrett shares what it really takes to be part of CHP Air Operations. Beyond the missions—tracking sideshows, supporting officers, and responding to critical incidents—comes a deep responsibility: maintaining the aircraft, ensuring safety, and being ready to deploy at a moment’s notice. Every detail matters when lives are on the line. 🎧 Be...

From Poland to the Golden State.  Officer Maja Dajnowicz’s journey started with military basic training overseas, but it was a trip to California to visit her father that sparked something bigger. Inspired by the California Highway Patrol, she chose to build a new path far from home. Starting over in a new country isn’t easy. New language, new culture, new challenges, but through it all, she staye...

Officers Goesch and Whitebear from the Hazardous Device Detail share what it’s like handling high-stakes situations and how their K-9 partners play a crucial role behind the scenes. Watch as they break down what the job really looks like—on duty and at home. Hear how dedication to the mission becomes a way of life.

In this episode, Gordon Graham sits down for a thoughtful discussion about leadership, risk, and the mindset behind good decision-making in public safety. Some people give speeches. Gordon Graham leads conversations that stick with you. Known for his ability to challenge the way we think, Gordon has spent decades engaging audiences in powerful discussions about leadership, risk, and the decisions...

Lights, sirens… and a whole lot of personality. 🚨✨ On this episode, we sit down with the one and only Erik Estrada, whose charisma lit up the screen as Officer Frank “Ponch” Poncherello on CHiPs. Erik shares how he got his start in acting, what drew him to Hollywood, and how his bold, unforgettable personality helped shape one of television’s most iconic roles.

In this episode, we’re joined by Sergeant Patrick Bourassa from the Computer Crimes Investigations Unit, who shares an inside look at investigating cybercrime and the toughest challenges he faces in tracking digital offenders. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast, true crime fan, or discovering the show for the first time, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes view of the expertise, persistence, and...

Sergeant Shane Kensey and Officer Matt Butler from the CHP K-9 Unit join our podcast and share insight into their roles and what goes into K-9 operations.

On this episode of Behind the Badge, we sit down with Detective Joey Bravo from CHP Central Division ISU – Major Crimes Unit for a conversation on major cases, investigative work, and what it takes to crack the toughest investigations.

Join us for a special edition of our Behind the Badge Podcast. In this episode, we feature Robert Pine, renowned television actor best known for his featured role as Sergeant Joseph Getraer on the hit television series CHiPs.

Join us for the continuation of CHP Sergeant Tim Gray’s unbelievable true story — a harrowing fight for survival during a critical incident on patrol, followed by the unwavering resilience that carried him through a long road to recovery and ultimately back to the badge.

In our third podcast episode, CHP Sergeant Tim Gray shares his incredible and harrowing story of survival during an incident while on patrol, as well as his long and resilient journey to recovery and his return to duty.

Listen as Officer Scott Pierson shares his incredible experience as the most senior motor rider on the California Highway Patrol. With over 30 years as an officer, and 28 years on a motor, he has served on presidential motorcades, assisted in the Hurricane Katrina rescue relief efforts, deployed to presidential national conventions, ridden in the Memorial Unity Tour honoring fallen officers across...

In our debut episode of Behind the Badge, we sit down with Commissioner Sean Duryee — the highest ranking member of the California Highway Patrol. Commissioner Duryee comes on to discuss his insight on leadership, the Department’s top priorities, and the future of the men and women who serve behind the badge. This in-depth conversation offers a rare look at the vision and responsibilities of the C...