When the Department Walks Away | Randy Sutton artwork
Coming Home Well

When the Department Walks Away | Randy Sutton

  • S5E167
  • 1:07:11
  • April 27th 2026

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When a 34-year law enforcement veteran suffers a stroke on duty, you’d expect his department to have his back. For Randy Sutton, the reality was a heartbreaking betrayal: denied benefits, a grueling legal battle, and the sudden loss of his identity.

In this powerful episode, Randy, founder of The Wounded Blue, author, and retired LVMPD Lieutenant, joins Tyler to discuss the "Thin Blue Line" of support he’s building for injured and struggling officers across the country. They dive deep into the culture of silence around mental health, the corruption of workers' comp, and the miraculous stories of recovery fueled by peer support.

🔗 Resources & Links:

  • Official Website: thewoundedblue.org
  • The 9-1-1 Campaign: Join the mission by donating just $9.11/month to support injured officers. Donate Here
  • 24/7 Peer Support: If you are an officer in need, support is available directly via the website.
  • National Law Enforcement Survival Summit: Join Randy and the team in Las Vegas, September 28–30. Event Details

Coming Home Well

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Coming Home Well is a podcast dedicated to helping the Unified Service Family- transitioning servicemembers, veterans, first responders, and their loved ones- navigate the journey of reintegration and wellness. Hosted by Dr. Tyler Pieron, each episode explores alternative resources and innovative support systems that go beyond traditional approaches to healing the visible and invisible wounds of service.

From non-traditional therapies and community-based programs to expert interviews and practical tools, this podcast serves as a valuable guide for those seeking pathways to improved mental, emotional, and physical well-being. By highlighting diverse healing modalities, we aim to provide inclusive resources that support every individual's unique path.

In addition to spotlighting these resources, Dr. Pieron is occasionally joined by historians to revisit key moments in our nation's history—preserving the legacy of service and sacrifice while providing context that deepens our understanding of the lived experience of those who serve.

Whether you are a veteran, a first responder, a family member, a caregiver, or an advocate, Coming Home Well offers the insights, connections, and tools necessary to support a successful transition and a healthy, purpose-driven life.

Meet the Host

Dr. Tyler Pieron avatar
Dr. Tyler Pieron
Host

Dr. Tyler Pieron is an Army veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan (and a few other conflicts). He served in the Army’s Criminal Investigation Command as a Special Agent until he was medically retired. Tyler hosts Coming Home Well’s radio and podcast shows and focuses on TBI research and helping veterans wade through the bureaucracy to obtain benefits, especially education.

Tyler used his GI Bill benefits to earn a Master of Science degree in Cyber Security Policy and then a PhD. in Information Assurance after receiving a sabbatical and scholarship from the Pat Roberts Intelligence Scholars Program. Tyler lives with his wife Claire, their 3 children (2 boys and a girl), 3 dogs (Beagle, Boxer and Great Dane), 2 lizards (Bearded Dragon and Leopard Gecko), and many fish, near Charlottesville, VA, where he works with the Department of Defense on cyber intelligence issues.