Season two of the Arizona DPS Seven Points Podcast wraps with a powerful episode on mental health and wellness for first responders. Public Information Manager Warren Trent and Sergeant Kameron Lee sit down with licensed professional counselor Dan Oakes, owner of the Arizona Family Institute, to discuss trauma, PTSD, and the importance of seeking help.

Dan explains the difference between primary and secondary PTSD, the impact of long-term stress on the nervous system, and the early warning signs: irritability, sadness, and difficulty feeling joy. He emphasizes that these reactions are normal, not a sign of weakness, and highlights how peer support and open conversation can be more effective than therapy alone.

The episode also explores how trauma affects not only sworn officers but dispatchers, lab staff, records personnel, and others exposed to repeated high‑stress environments. DPS’s growing wellness program, including annual mandatory clinician visits and wellness reprieves, is recognized as a model for destigmatizing mental health support.

Season two concludes with encouragement for all employees to reach out, talk openly, and seek professional help when needed. caring for mental health leads to healthier troopers, employees, stronger families, and better service to the community. The podcast returns in September.

In this episode of Seven Points, hosts Warren Trent and Sgt. Kameron Lee sit down with Mike Burnett, Director of the Law Enforcement Torch Run for Special Olympics Arizona, for a conversation about service, community, and the powerful impact of supporting athletes with intellectual disabilities.

Mike shares the history and mission of the Law Enforcement Torch Run, a worldwide movement that has grown into the largest public awareness and fundraising initiative benefiting Special Olympics. He discusses how Arizona law enforcement agencies, including the Arizona Department of Public Safety, partner throughout the year to raise funds, build relationships, and champion inclusion across the state.

Listeners will learn about the inspiring stories behind the athletes, the dedication of the officers who volunteer their time, and the life-changing opportunities created through sports, leadership, and community engagement. Mike also highlights the significance of the annual Torch Run, the role of public safety professionals in supporting Special Olympics, and how these partnerships continue to strengthen communities.

Whether you're a law enforcement professional, a Special Olympics supporter, or simply looking for an uplifting story about making a difference, this episode showcases the spirit of service, teamwork, and compassion that defines both organizations.

In this episode of Seven Points, hosts Warren Trent and Sgt. Kameron Lee sit down with DPS telecommunications manager and statewide interoperability coordinator Jeremy Knoll for an inside look at the technology that keeps Arizona’s first responders connected. With nearly 30 years at DPS, Jeremy shares his journey from growing up in a small town in North Idaho to becoming one of the agency’s leading experts in public safety communications.

Jeremy explains the critical role telecommunications plays in law enforcement, from 911 dispatch systems and mountaintop radio towers to the massive statewide network that supports troopers, firefighters, EMS, and partner agencies across Arizona. Listeners will hear about the challenges of maintaining aging infrastructure, the demanding off-road work required to access remote communication sites, and the groundbreaking transition to a modern digital radio system.

The conversation also dives into new technology transforming public safety, including LTE integration, FirstNet connectivity, improved statewide coverage, and encrypted communications designed to enhance officer safety. Jeremy’s passion for innovation, teamwork, and public service shines throughout this fascinating discussion, offering listeners a behind-the-scenes perspective on the unseen systems that help keep Arizona safe every day.

In this episode of Seven Points, hosts Warren Trent and Sgt. Kameron Lee sit down with longtime DPS employee Charlie Hopkins to chat about his resilience, wellness, and personal growth. Recorded at the DPS Wellness Center, Charlie shares his journey from aspiring child psychologist to state trooper, SWAT operator, and law enforcement tech specialist.

Charlie shares a life-changing incident when he was hit by a vehicle, leading to a long recovery that changed his view on health and fitness. That experience, combined with later career challenges, ignited a lasting commitment to physical and mental wellness. He discusses how consistent training, strength work, and even stepping outside his comfort zone with yoga have helped him stay grounded and resilient.

The conversation highlights the importance of simply showing up, breaking through intimidation, and using available resources to improve overall well-being. Charlie’s candid, often humorous storytelling underscores a deeper message: fitness isn’t about perfection, it’s about persistence. His story serves as both motivation and proof that no matter your starting point, taking that first step can lead to lasting change.

In this episode of Seven Points, hosts Warren Trent and Sgt. Kameron Lee sit down with Health & wellness coach Erica Martzen to explore the critical role of physical and mental wellness in public safety. Broadcasting from the DPS Wellness Center, the conversation highlights how fitness goes beyond the gym—connecting movement, breath, and mindset.

Erica shares her journey from a small-town upbringing in Pennsylvania to joining DPS, bringing a passion for yoga and holistic health. She explains how yoga is accessible to everyone, regardless of experience or fitness level, and emphasizes its benefits for strength, flexibility, injury prevention, and stress management. The discussion breaks down common misconceptions, reassuring listeners that yoga is adaptable, practical, and grounded in simple practices like breathing and awareness.

The episode also highlights DPS’s expanding wellness program, including yoga classes, personalized coaching, and statewide outreach efforts to support both sworn and professional staff. With a focus on inclusivity and sustainability, Erica’s approach encourages individuals to take that first step toward better health—physically, mentally, and emotionally—no matter where they are in their journey.

In this energetic episode of Seven Points, hosts Warren Trent and Sgt. Kameron Lee take the show on the road to the DPS Wellness Center, where they sit down with Deborah Goodwin, a longtime DPS employee and passionate wellness coach. Blending humor with heartfelt insight, Deborah shares her unique journey from elementary school teacher to marathon runner to fitness advocate within the agency.

With 18 years at DPS, Deborah brings both experience and relatability to her role. She opens up about her own transformation, including overcoming weight challenges and discovering the power of strength training. As a Boston Marathon qualifier and ultra-distance runner, she offers a perspective that combines mental toughness, discipline, and the importance of finding what works for each individual.

The conversation highlights the agency’s growing commitment to wellness and the importance of making fitness accessible and non-intimidating for everyone. Deborah emphasizes that there is no one-size-fits-all approach, encouraging employees to take that first step, ask questions, and build confidence through education and support.

From motivation and accountability to practical tips on exercise and nutrition, this episode delivers both inspiration and actionable advice. It is a fun and informative look at how DPS is empowering its people to live healthier, stronger lives—one step at a time.

In this episode of Seven Points, hosts Warren Trent and Sgt. Kameron Lee sit down inside the DPS Employee Health & Wellness Center with special guest Joe Carson, one of the agency’s new wellness coaches. Joe shares his powerful personal journey, including how he lost 180 pounds through discipline, education, and a commitment to sustainable lifestyle changes. That transformation sparked a nearly 25-year career in health and fitness, where he has helped hundreds of people achieve lasting results.

Joe discusses the mission behind DPS’s expanded wellness initiative and how it aims to support employees across the state with personalized fitness and nutrition guidance. From building custom workout plans to offering one-on-one coaching and group classes, the program is designed to meet employees wherever they are in their journey, whether they are just starting out or looking to improve performance.

The conversation highlights common barriers to success, including misinformation and lack of support, while emphasizing the importance of education, accountability, and mindset. Joe also addresses how to overcome intimidation in a gym environment and encourages employees to take advantage of the free resources available to them.

This episode offers practical insight, motivation, and a behind-the-scenes look at how DPS is investing in the long-term health and well-being of its workforce.