Post-Op Reflections

#007 | Brad Ortiz - Moral Injury, Identity Beyond the Uniform, and Faith-Fueled Resilience

Brad Ortiz — former law enforcement officer with over a decade in patrol, street crimes, gang investigations, and fugitive apprehension — joins Neil Noakes and Reuben Ramirez for a raw, honest conversation on the unseen costs of the job. From the cumulative trauma of loss-of-life calls (including the ones that still haunt him years later) to battles with anxiety, depression, identity tied to the badge, and moments where he sat with a gun in his hand, Brad shares how faith, family, physical wellness, and getting comfortable with discomfort helped him persevere. Now leading the law enforcement division at Silencer Shop and continuing to serve as a reserve officer, Brad offers hard-earned wisdom on transition, leadership, failing forward, and why first responders must create stop-gaps and prioritize self-care without losing the grit that defines the profession. This episode highlights the real human impact of moral injury and the hope available through Christ-centered healing — the foundation of the American Warrior Association’s Warrior’s Refuge™ retreats and R3 Program™ for first responder agencies. If you’re carrying the weight of the job or supporting someone who is, this conversation will encourage you. American Warrior Association — restoring hope and renewing purpose for America’s warriors and first responders.

#006 Daniel & Ruth Kaster - A Warrior Couple’s Journey of Faith, Leadership & Healing

From the battlefield to a Christ-centered marriage—Sergeant Major Daniel Kaster and Sergeant First Class Ruth Kaster share their powerful journey of faith, healing, and hope on the newest episode of Post-Op Reflections. After decades of service, multiple deployments, moral injury, childhood trauma, and personal battles, this warrior couple found each other as friends first, then built a marriage rooted in grace, accountability, and unwavering faith. Today, as parents of four, they are breaking generational curses and modeling compassionate leadership that puts people before paperwork. Their story is a living testament to what’s possible when heroes turn to Christ for restoration. This is the heart of the American Warrior Association’s mission: helping service members, veterans, first responders, and their families heal from moral injury and reclaim purpose in mind, body, and soul through faith-based programs like Warrior’s Refuge™ and the R3 Program™.

#005 Brandon Hernandez & Aaron Krause - Moral Injury & Courage in Law Enforcement

Veteran SWAT operators Brandon Hernandez and Aaron Krause join Will Spencer and Neil Noakes for a powerful discussion on moral injury, officer shootings, justice system failures, and the role of faith in modern policing. A faith-anchored conversation about courage, leadership, and healing the soul of our nation.

#004 Mattie Parker - How Fort Worth's Mayor is Revolutionizing First Responder Support

In this powerful episode of Post-Op Reflections, host Neil Noakes sits down with Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker and co-host Dr. Heather Twedell, forensic psychologist and Dallas Cowboys team psychologist. Mayor Parker reveals how the R3 Program is transforming first responder wellness while sharing how her small-town roots shaped her leadership approach. Dr. Twedell offers expert insights on addressing trauma and promoting mental health in high-pressure professions. Discover how these two remarkable women are breaking barriers and creating lasting change in traditionally male-dominated fields. A must-watch conversation on leadership, wellness, and building stronger communities.

#003 Brad Hunstable & Cliff Weaver - Loss, Trauma, and Faith's Redemption

In this episode of Post-Op Reflections, Brad Hunstable courageously shares the heartbreaking story of losing his son Hayden to suicide, offering raw insights into grief and the path to renewed purpose. Joined by Forth Worth Fire Department Chaplain Cliff Weaver, who reflects on the traumatic calls that tested his resilience and faith.