Life On The X

What does it take to serve as a California Highway Patrol (CHP) SWAT officer, flight paramedic, and executive protection specialist? In this episode of Life on the X , host Sal Cortez sits down with CHP Officer Brian Wiest , a 19-year veteran whose career bridges law enforcement, emergency medical services, tactical operations, and protective security. From patrolling California's rugged Big Sur c...

In this episode of Life on the X , Sal Cortez sits down with California Highway Patrol Officer Norm Sells , whose career has taken him from the back of an ambulance to serving as a CHP SWAT operator, sniper, and paramedic. Norm shares how his early years as an EMT and paramedic shaped his approach to public service and ultimately led him to the California Highway Patrol. The conversation explores...

In this episode of Life on the X, host Sal Cortez sits down with Allyn T. Goodrich, a veteran Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officer, SWAT operator, author, and advocate for first-responder wellness. Goodrich shares his journey from small-town Nevada to nearly two decades in law enforcement, including patrol, undercover investigations, intelligence, and SWAT. He opens up about the cumula...

In this episode of Life on the X , host Sal Cortez sits down with Jason Bassett , a retired Sacramento Police Department captain and veteran firearms instructor, to discuss law enforcement training, firearm proficiency, responsible handgun ownership, and the importance of continued training. Jason shares his journey from serving in the U.S. Navy to a nearly 24-year career with the Sacramento Polic...

Dr. Reynolds Kairus shares his remarkable journey from a challenging upbringing in New York City to becoming a medical doctor. He discusses the impact of his early life experiences, the positive influences that shaped him, and the challenges he faced in his youth. The conversation also delves into the high-stress nature of EMS work and the issue of burnout among first responders. Dr. Reynolds Kair...

The conversation covers Dr. Michael Guirguis's journey from aspiring pilot to emergency medicine physician and his experiences in law enforcement and air rescue operation. It also delves into the challenges and experience of flight medicine and the use of whole blood in emergency care. The conversation covers topics, including the importance of whole blood donation, the experience of trauma in eme...

The conversation with Jim Morrissey covers his background in outdoor education, wilderness medicine, and his role as a tactical medic with the FBI SWAT team. It delves into the evolution of tactical medicine, the role of medics in law enforcement operations, and the need for standardized training and guidelines for tactical medics. The conversation delves into the challenges and complexities of ta...

From Marine Recon to SWAT to Counterterrorism: A Lifetime of Service with Carlos Ponce | Life on the X Podcast The conversation covers Carlos's personal background, military experience, law enforcement career, and involvement in gang suppression. It delves into his upbringing, military training, law enforcement assignments, and experiences with gang activity in Sacramento. The conversation covers...

Retired California Highway Patrol officer Dave White shares his remarkable journey from the United States Navy to the California Highway Patrol, highlighting his experiences, leadership, and commitment to service. His story is one of courage, sacrifice, and unwavering dedication to duty. The conversation covers a range of topics, including the experiences of David White as a Navy Seabee, his trans...

Sergeant Tom Zizo shares his journey from New York to Los Angeles, shaped by the September 11th attacks, and his commitment to public service. He discusses his experiences, influences, and perspective on leadership and modern policing. The conversation covers various topics related to law enforcement, including patrol functions, career progression, leadership challenges, and tactical operations. I...

Retired police sergeant Rob Young shares the incredible story of surviving the 1989 Cleveland Elementary School shooting before dedicating nearly two decades to a career in law enforcement. In this premiere episode of Life on the X , host Sal Cortez explores Rob's journey from childhood trauma to serving on the front lines as a police officer, including the day he was forced to respond to an activ...