The Cost of the Badge: A shooting, a Combat Cross, and the Mental Aftermath Artwork

Truly Mental

This podcast has been created by Joe Smarro & Jesse Trevino and it is being provided by SolutionPoint+, a national training and consulting firm that specializes in cultivating mental wellness to maximize human capital and promote safety. They are two combat veteran marines, who have been on a shared journey as best friends for the last 20+ years. Joe and Jesse were both San Antonio Police officers for 15 and 10 years, respectively, and have started a training and consulting firm which is now their full-time endeavor. They have set out on a mission to change the culture of law enforcement in America by focusing on individual wellness. They hope to eradicate first responder suicide. Welcome to the podcast, please subscribe, share, and leave comments for them both. BeWell -

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Truly Mental

The Cost of the Badge: A shooting, a Combat Cross, and the Mental Aftermath

January 05, 2026 • Season 5 • Episode 1

0:00 | 48:31

Summary:

In this episode of Truly Mental, Joe Smarro interviews retired NYPD officer Steve Pedullo, who shares his journey from a working-class upbringing to a 16-year career in law enforcement. Steve discusses the challenges and realities of policing in New York City, including a life-altering shooting incident that led to his combat cross award. He opens up about the emotional aftermath of the incident, the importance of mental health, and his transition to a fulfilling career in private security. Throughout the conversation, Steve emphasizes the significance of kindness, personal growth, and the need for support in difficult times.

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Takeaways:

Steve Padulo shares his upbringing in a working-class family.
He emphasizes the importance of family values instilled by his father.
Steve discusses his journey to becoming a police officer in NYPD.
He reflects on the challenges faced by officers in high-pressure environments.
The shooting incident he experienced changed his perspective on life.
Steve highlights the emotional impact of being involved in a shooting.
He advocates for mental health awareness and seeking help.
Steve found purpose in his new role in private security after retiring.
He encourages kindness and understanding towards others.
Steve believes that the storm of life cannot last forever.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Steve Padulo's Journey
02:49 Growing Up and Family Values
06:13 Early Career and Joining NYPD
08:50 The Reality of Policing in Brooklyn
11:54 The Combat Cross Incident
20:58 Aftermath and Reflection on the Shooting
26:03 Navigating Injury and Recovery
28:28 Confronting PTSD and Seeking Help
30:48 Transitioning to Life After Law Enforcement
32:44 The Challenges of Parenthood
35:09 Finding Purpose in New Opportunities
39:35 Reflections on Law Enforcement and Community
45:10 Lessons in Kindness and Understanding

Keywords:
NYPD, police officer, mental health, shooting incident, private security, family values, leadership, emotional impact, personal growth, kindness