Guarding the Guardians: Joe King on Mental Health, Service and Strength in the Ranks

Dallas native and longtime police officer Joe King joins Ryan and Shawn for a candid conversation about mental health in law enforcement, the evolution of officer wellness programs and how his top-ranked podcast is helping bridge the divide between the badge and the community.

As a 28-year veteran of the Dallas Police Department and a leader in the Assist the Officer Foundation, Joe is on the frontlines of culture change — challenging stigmas, expanding trauma-informed care and building a support system for officers and their families. He also shares reflections on July 7, 2016, and how that moment continues to shape his mission.

Interview begins @ 11:55

Key Topics:

• The evolution of the Dallas Police Department’s Officer Wellness Unit
• How ATO’s confidential counseling services are breaking generational stigmas
• The mental toll of critical incidents — and why proactive outreach matters
• Lessons learned from July 7, 2016, and the path forward for officer support
• Building a nationally recognized podcast that gives voice to untold stories

More on Joe King & ATO:

• 🌐 Learn more or donate: ATOdallas.org
• 🎙 Listen to ATO’s “Bridging the Divide” on all major podcast platforms

Hosts: Shawn P. Williams & Ryan Trimble
Producer: Zach Thompson