Behind The Shield

Michael Lopez turned a life of addiction and gang life into a degree in forensic psychology and the genesis of Mission Echo, helping feed the homeless on Skid Row. We discuss childhood trauma, the tribal element of gangs, addiction, finding the power to change, altruism and much more.
As a young man, Michael Lopez found himself on a path of gang life and addiction. One day, he made the decision to turn his life around. He now is a Forensic Psychology graduate and the man behind Mission Echo, feeding Skid Row’s homeless.
Mission Echo: https://www.instagram.com/mission_echo/

Ryan Lucas is a second-generation journeyman power lineman and the creator and host of Powerline Podcast, one of the most trusted platforms in the electrical utility and line trade. With over two decades in the field, his experience spans urban distribution, major transmission construction including 500kV barehand work, helicopter operations, and large-scale infrastructure projects work rooted in discipline, teamwork, and operating under pressure. In 2019,
Ryan launched Powerline Podcast, now backed by Quanta Services, to spotlight the people, culture, and leadership behind the power grid while inspiring the next generation to consider a future in the trades.

Marc Wysocki is a dedicated clinician and public safety leader with over 30 years of experience in emergency response and sports medicine. Currently serving as the Head Athletic Trainer and Associate Director of Campus Safety at Berkshire School in Sheffield, MA, Marc has spent over two decades to help developing crisis response protocols and leading athletic training services student-athletes as an athletic trainer for 35 years.
In 2025, Marc reached a significant professional milestone by earning his Doctor of Athletic Training from Moravian University. His academic journey is marked by prestigious accolades, including being named the National Winner of the 2025 Thought Leadership Essay contest, sponsored by WS Darley and the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, for his impactful work titled "Behind the Mask". He is also a recipient of the Frank George Doctoral Scholarship and the NATA Memorial Scholarship.
Beyond the clinic, Marc serves his community as a Captain with the Sheffield Volunteer Fire Department, where he has been a member since 2014. As a Certified EMT and Tactical Emergency Casualty Care (TECC) specialist, Marc operates at the intersection of tactical performance and mental health advocacy. He is passionate about changing the "tough guy" culture in the fire service and helping first responders navigate the complexities of identity fusion and mental resilience.
Marc’s clinical expertise is further supported by certifications as a Graston Technique Specialist and a Corrective Exercise Specialist, along with proficiency in Blood Flow Restriction Training and Dry Needling.
https://www.darley.com/essay-competition/

Jonathan Williams is a modern country artist from Vernon, British Columbia, whose music blends heart, grit, and the honesty of lived experience. A retired RCMP officer turned singer-songwriter, Jonathan’s journey from the front lines of law enforcement to the spotlight of the Canadian country scene is a story of resilience, redemption, and rediscovery through music.
His breakout single “That’s What a Heartbreak Tastes Like” reached #3 on the Canadian Indie Country Countdown, earning radio play across Canada, the U.S., and Mexico, and racking up over 26,000 streams. His follow-up singles “Wild Fire” and “Goodbye Back” have continued that momentum, with “Goodbye Back” surpassing 150,000 digital streams, gaining national radio traction, and solidifying Jonathan as one of Canada’s most promising independent country voices.
Produced by Jeff Johnson (The Washboard Union, Chris Buck Band) and recorded at Saxman Studios in Nashville, Jonathan’s recordings capture the energy and authenticity that define his live performances. His songs are built around real emotion — stories of heartbreak, hope, and hard-won lessons — anchored by a powerful voice and a sound that merges modern Nashville polish with the heart of true country storytelling.
Jonathan’s career continues to rise with two new singles on the way — both produced by Jeff Johnson and recorded in Nashville — leading up to the release of his six-song EP planned for 2026. The project will showcase his strongest songwriting to date, highlighting his distinct blend of heartfelt ballads and high-energy anthems that speak to life, love, and resilience.
Over the past year, Jonathan has performed more than 50 shows across British Columbia, including major events like Peachfest, Westside Daze, Armstrong IPE, Vancouver Island Exhibition, and Parks Alive, along with brewery residencies and sold-out shows at venues like Crown & Thieves. His “Boots, Bars & Battle Scars Tour” combined live music with storytelling about mental health and PTSD — connecting deeply with audiences and first responders across the province.
Media and industry have taken notice. Jonathan has been featured on Global TV, CTV, Castanet, and the Vernon Morning Star, and was a 2nd Ballot Nominee for both Male Artist of the Year and Emerging Artist of the Year at the 2025 BC Country Music Association Awards. His music has also received consistent coverage on 91.5 Bounce FM, 105.7 The Ranch, Move 101.5 Kelowna, and numerous U.S. and international country stations.
Looking ahead, Jonathan is preparing for a Canada-wide tour to support his upcoming EP release — with plans to expand into national festivals, international showcases, and sync placements through recent connections at VIFF AMP Summit. His career continues to grow from the grassroots upward, built on talent, authenticity, and a genuine desire to connect through every lyric and performance.
Whether on stage or on record, Jonathan Williams embodies the spirit of modern country — real stories, raw emotion, and the reminder that no matter how tough the road gets, there’s always music to carry you through.

Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Craig Mitchell is the founder of the Skid Row Running Club which is featured in the documentary Skid Row Marathon. Founded in 2012, The Skid Row Running Club provides a running program for the Skid Row Community of Los Angeles and involves the larger community in supporting its members in overcoming alcohol/drug abuse and achieving positive life goals.
It all began when a young man he had previously sentenced to prison, Roderick Brown, contacted him through the Midnight Mission. “For some reason he decided he liked the way I treated him, even though I sent him to prison,” Mitchell says. “He looked me up and introduced me to The Mission.”
As soon as Mitchell got there, he decided the best way to reach the people was through running. “There are so many little things that emanate from this very basic idea of just running,” he says.
Mitchell had been running for about 15 years when he started the club. He ran his first race because he was asked by his boss at the District Attorney’s Office to run a relay. It was too early in his career to say no, so he joined the team. It was a blessing—he’s a runner to the core now, even when he’s in the courtroom.
Under the black robe he wears on the bench, Mitchell is in a shirt and tie as you’d expect. But below the belt he’s in just his running shorts and shoes—he likes to change out of his robe quickly to maximize the time of his lunchtime run. -- Runner's World, Liam Boylan-Pett