The Carnegie Hero Fund Commission has honored over 10,000 civilian heroes since 1904—ordinary people who risk their lives to save others in extraordinary moments. From water rescues to acts of courage that end in tragedy, each story is carefully investigated and recognized with one of the highest civilian honors in North America: the Carnegie Medal.
In this episode of Fed Time Stories, hosts John Gill and Dave Brant speak with Eric Zahren, President of the Carnegie Hero Fund and a retired US Secret Service agent, about what it takes to identify and honor true acts of heroism.
With over 1,000 nominations a year and only 10% awarded, the process is rigorous, and the impact is lasting. From financial support to scholarships and posthumous recognition, the Hero Fund’s work goes far beyond a single moment of bravery.
Throughout the conversation, Eric reflects on the values that shaped his career—pride, humility, and respect—and how they continue to guide his work recognizing the quiet courage of everyday people who step up in life-or-death situations.
Tune in to hear how a former federal agent found a second mission in spotlighting the best of humanity—and why that work is more important than ever.
Fed Time Stories is brought to you by Kaseware, an investigative case management solution. Learn more at www.kaseware.com/fedtimestoriespodcast
Popular Podcasts
Cold Case Files: Miami
Joyce Sapp, 76; Bryan Herrera, 16; and Laurance Webb, 32—three Miami residents whose lives were stolen in brutal, unsolved homicides. Cold Case Files: Miami follows award‑winning radio host and City of Miami Police reserve officer Enrique Santos as he partners with the department’s Cold Case Homicide Unit, determined family members, and the advocates who spend their lives fighting for justice for the victims who can no longer fight for themselves.
24/7 News: The Latest
The latest news in 4 minutes updated every hour, every day.
Crime Junkie
Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.