Send us a text

In this episode of the Blue Grit Podcast, we sit down with Jim Bedinger, Division President, and Jorge Mendoza, Vice President of the National Police Federal Credit Union, to talk about how their organization is helping law enforcement officers nationwide keep more of their hard-earned money.

As a proud TMPA partner, the National Police Federal Credit Union offers exclusive financial benefits designed specifically for those who serve — including mortgage rates 1% below market value and the incredible High-Speed Auto Loan starting at just 2.99%.

Jim and Jorge break down how joining the Credit Union not only saves officers money but also connects them with a community that understands the unique challenges of the profession. From financial security to personalized support, this episode highlights another way TMPA continues to serve those who serve Texas.

🔗 Learn more: www.nationalpolicefcu.com

📧 Contact:
Jim Bedinger – [email protected]

Jorge Mendoza – [email protected]

#BlueGritPodcast #TMPA #NationalPoliceFCU #ServingThoseWhoServeTexas #BlueFamily #FinancialFreedom

Support the show

email us at- [email protected]

Send us a text

In Part 2 of this gripping two-part series, Giovanni Rocco pulls back the curtain on life after the takedown.
What happens when the mission ends—but the mask doesn’t come off?

This episode explores the personal cost of living undercover: the toll it took on Gio’s mental health, the strain on his marriage, and the distance that grew between him and his children. With raw honesty, Gio shares what it was like to lose himself in the role—and the long road to finding his way back.

Today, his mission continues in a new form. No longer infiltrating criminal organizations, Gio now works on the frontlines of mental wellness for law enforcement and first responders, helping others navigate the same darkness he once lived through.

It’s a story of redemption, resilience, and redefining what it means to serve.

Check out his book here- https://a.co/d/9Oix3EW
Inside the Life Podcast- https://insidethelife.org/episodes/

Support the show

email us at- [email protected]

Send us a text

In this gripping episode, former undercover officer Giovanni Rocco takes listeners deep inside one of the most dangerous assignments in modern law enforcement — infiltrating the MOB. For years, Rocco lived a double life, gaining the trust of some of the most ruthless figures in organized crime while secretly working to bring them down.

With raw honesty and unfiltered emotion, Giovanni reveals the mental and emotional toll of living undercover, the split-second decisions that could have cost him his life, and the price he and his family paid for justice. His story is not just about deception and danger — it’s about courage, loyalty, and the relentless pursuit of truth.

This is more than a story about the mob — it’s the story of a man who walked the line between good and evil… and lived to tell about it.

Support the show

email us at- [email protected]

Send us a text

In this inspiring episode of the Blue Grit Podcast, Houston Area Regional Attorney Marsha Todd shares how her remarkable journey from the Houston Police Department to the courtroom shaped her approach to defending Texas law enforcement officers.

Marsha reflects on her years serving in Houston Police Narcotics — where she learned firsthand the intensity, integrity, and teamwork it takes to serve on the front lines. Later, she brought that same dedication to the Houston Police Department’s Legal Division, sharpening her expertise in policy, procedure, and officer representation. Those experiences, both on the streets and behind the desk, have made her an outstanding choice for TMPA members across Texas who depend on her skill, grit, and deep understanding of what officers truly face.

Listeners will also hear Marsha reveal her personal “recipe for success” in representing officers — a blend of empathy, preparation, and unwavering loyalty that defines her legal philosophy.

Joining her in this episode is TMPA Field Representative Robby Campbell, who covers the Southeast Texas region. Robby brings a field perspective to the discussion, sharing how TMPA’s legal and field services work seamlessly together to ensure that every member receives the best representation and support possible.

💙 Tune in for a powerful mix of insight, humor, and heart — as two seasoned professionals remind us that behind every badge defended, there’s a story of service, sacrifice, and unshakable dedication.

Support the show

email us at- [email protected]

Send us a text

In this inspiring episode, we welcome Sharon Hernandez, Law Enforcement Torch Run Coordinator for Special Olympics Texas, and Katrina Cordova, dedicated SOTX volunteer, to discuss how a partnership built on service and compassion continues to transform lives across the state.

Sharon and Katrina share heartfelt stories of the connection between Texas law enforcement and Special Olympics athletes—how each event, from the Torch Run to statewide competitions, represents courage, inclusion, and unity.

Together, they reflect on the incredible impact TMPA’s involvement has made—building bridges between officers and communities, inspiring athletes, and empowering families to see what’s truly possible when law enforcement and Special Olympics Texas stand side by side.

💙 A partnership fueled by heart. A mission driven by hope.

Support the show

email us at- [email protected]

Send us a text

At just 26 years old, Edinburg Police Officer Felicia Barragan has already lived a lifetime of service. A U.S. Army veteran, patrol officer, and self-defense instructor, Barragan is also the founder of the Blue Heart Initiative—a grassroots program designed to connect law enforcement officers with elementary students in her community.

In this episode, we dive into Barragan’s journey from soldier to street cop, and how her vision for the Blue Heart Initiative is shaping the next generation’s perception of law enforcement. With a focus on mentorship, trust, and human connection, Barragan is proving that the badge isn’t just about enforcement—it’s about inspiration.

Listeners will walk away with a powerful reminder of how young officers can lead change, strengthen communities, and leave a lasting legacy that extends far beyond their uniform.

Support the show

email us at- [email protected]

Send us a text

For the second time, the Texas Municipal Retirement System (TMRS) joins the Blue Grit Podcast to talk about what could be a historic shift for public safety retirement in Texas.

Guests Marin Emma and Shannon Lucero from TMRS break down a new bill that, if passed, would raise both the employee contribution and the city match to 8%. The conversation dives into how this proposed change would impact officers across the state, what it means for long-term retirement security, and why it matters to start planning today.

This episode gives listeners a clear, straightforward look at what’s on the horizon for TMRS members — and how the decisions made in Austin could shape the future for officers and their families.

Support the show

email us at- [email protected]

Send us a text

What happens when small-town values meet the challenges of modern policing? TMPA Board Director Luke Schaefer takes us from the pastures of Mabank, Texas to the leadership ranks of the Tyler Police Department.

Inspired by his grandfather, a Sheriff in Van Zandt County, Schaefer joined Tyler PD in 2006 and has since witnessed the evolution of policing—through technology, culture, and public perception—while staying true to community service.

He shares gripping stories from his time on Tyler’s bike team, where stealth operations led to high-stakes arrests, and opens up about the mental health toll officers face—over 600 critical incidents in a career compared to just a handful for most Americans.

Schaefer’s advice for new officers: manage your certifications, invest wisely, pursue higher education, be cautious with part-time jobs, and keep friendships outside law enforcement.

Want to experience the TMPA family? Join us at the upcoming conference in Dallas. As Schaefer reminds us, this profession impacts entire families, and TMPA is here to support them all.

Support the show

email us at- [email protected]

Send us a text

In this follow-up episode, we continue the conversation on the leadership crisis unfolding in Texas City. TCMPA President Rachel Spahr joins by phone, with board member Lisa Chandler, to shed light on the ongoing fallout with embattled Mayor Dedrick Johnson and the community-driven recall effort now underway.

Lisa brings a board member’s perspective on how the toxic leadership at City Hall has not only fueled mistrust and low morale among officers but has also spilled over into the community’s confidence in its local government. Together, Rachel and Lisa outline the reality of working under a retaliatory mayor-run system, the risks officers face when speaking out, and the urgent push to restore accountability.

Listeners will gain a raw, inside look at how dysfunction at the top erodes public safety, why the recall movement has gained traction, and what true leadership reform must look like for Texas City PD and the community it serves.

This is more than a story about one mayor—it’s about the fight for integrity, stability, and the future of Texas City law enforcement.

Support the show

email us at- [email protected]

Send us a text

In this episode of the Blue Grit Podcast, we sit down with national use-of-force expert and law enforcement attorney Lance LoRusso—a former officer turned legal warrior who’s represented over 180 officers in critical incidents.

From patrol to prosecution, Lance knows the stakes. He breaks down what really happens when officers are thrust into the legal spotlight—where the headlines are loud, but the facts often get buried.

🔹 Why the real question in officer-involved shootings isn’t who did it—but why it happened
🔹 The fatal flaw of knee-jerk firings after viral incidents
🔹 What most attorneys don’t understand about defending cops
🔹 How the emotional toll on officers goes far beyond the courtroom
🔹 Why the “defund” narrative is falling apart—and what comes next

Whether you're wearing the badge or standing behind those who do, this episode delivers unfiltered truth about the legal minefield officers now face—and why specialized representation from people who understand the job is more important than ever.

🛡 From the streets to the stand—Blue Line Institute is in the fight. And so is Lance.

Support the show

email us at- [email protected]