Pride, Patrol, and Pop Stars
It’s Pride Summer, so Kilo asks the hard-hitting questions—like “Who are your top gays?” Spoiler: Dad’s list includes George Michael, NPH, and Candace Parker. We get into LGBTQ+ visibility on the force, whether there was any actual training back in the day, and what he really thought about Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell. Come for the rainbow, stay for the real talk (and the confused admiration for leather pants).

• Christopher Fox
• Daniel Blatt
• Amy Smith
• Michael Smoothie, PhD
• Luciano Mendez
• Kippie Martin

Cop-Blocking: Teen Rights and Summer Wrongs

In this episode of The Cop and The Comic, we dive into the wild world of teenage freedom—especially in the summertime. Should teens have more rights, or do they need a few more rules? Kilo argues for more trust, while Dad recalls the glory days of busting up parties, patrolling marshlands with a fake K9 unit, and unintentionally becoming the ultimate cop-blocker. From underage ragers to curfew debates, this one’s got laughs, laws, and a little father-son friction.

• Christopher Fox
• Daniel Blatt
• Amy Smith
• Michael Smoothie, PhD
• Luciano Mendez
• Kippie Martin

Thriving in Connecticut: A Conversation with Nordia Savage

This episode of The Cop and the Comic features the vibrant Nordia Savage, a Jamaican-born Hartford native and passionate social and policy worker. Together, we unpack the unique experience of being a young professional of color in Connecticut—a state with a progressive reputation but a strong undercurrent of conservatism and cultural silos.

Nordia shares her favorite spots to connect, including a must-visit Black-owned beer garden that’s redefining community in Hartford. We also dive into the challenges and joys of finding places to meet people and build meaningful connections in a state known for its "Nutmegger" quirks. From Hartford’s colorful characters to the evolving impact of immigrant communities, this episode blends humor, insight, and a whole lot of heart.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to thrive in the land of steady habits, this one’s for you! 🍻💡🏙️

• Christopher Fox
• Daniel Blatt
• Amy Smith
• Michael Smoothie, PhD
• Luciano Mendez
• Kippie Martin

In this episode of The Cop and the Comic, Officer Martin shares his love for shoreline living, a way of life he’s known all his days. From pro tips on snagging the best property rates to his thoughts on why the East Coast is truly the "best coast," his advice might just have you dreaming of a sea breeze and a backyard with a view.

Meanwhile, Kilo chimes in with his unique perspective—reminiscing about a research trip to the Sargasso Sea and uncovering untold tales of the family boat he never quite made it aboard.

Grab your life vest and tune in—it’s a shoreline story you won’t want to miss! 🌊🚤

• Christopher Fox
• Daniel Blatt
• Amy Smith
• Michael Smoothie, PhD
• Luciano Mendez
• Kippie Martin

Into the Perfect Storm: Officer Martin's Harrowing Rescue Mission

In this gripping episode of The Cop and the Comic, Officer Martin takes us into the heart of the real-life events that inspired The Perfect Storm. Sharing his firsthand experience flying through a storm with towering 20-foot waves, he breaks down the strategies and teamwork that kept his crew steady in chaotic skies.

From the critical communications with the rescue team and the distressed boat to the chilling mystery of the diver who was never found, Officer Martin offers a rare behind-the-scenes glimpse of the bravery and precision required in life-or-death missions.

This episode is a blend of nail-biting drama, heartfelt reflection, and the fascinating reality of what it takes to navigate the unforgiving forces of nature.

Buckle up—this story will leave you in awe of the courage it takes to face the perfect storm. 🌊🌀✈️

• Christopher Fox
• Daniel Blatt
• Amy Smith
• Michael Smoothie, PhD
• Luciano Mendez
• Kippie Martin

My dad joins me to talk about something we don’t always think about—emergency preparedness. We dive into his experience working during Hurricane Katrina, where he had to help Haitian refugees and eventually return them to safety. It’s a powerful reminder of how important it is to stay alert and cautious in unpredictable situations, especially when there’s the potential for hostility.

We also get into how my dad prepared me for emergencies growing up. From fire drills at home to having a fire safety plan that was somehow already embedded in my subconscious, he made sure I was always ready for the unexpected—even if I didn’t realize it at the time.

This conversation blends personal stories with life lessons about being prepared for whatever comes your way. You won’t want to miss it. Tune in to hear my dad’s wisdom, and some laughs along the way, as we explore the value of preparation and staying safe.

• Christopher Fox
• Daniel Blatt
• Amy Smith
• Michael Smoothie, PhD
• Luciano Mendez
• Kippie Martin

In this episode of The Cop and the Comic, we tackle the recent LA fires that have shaken the city and left many of us on edge. My dad shares chilling stories of dealing with fires during his time on the force, including the unique and terrifying challenges of fighting blazes on boats—where water doesn't make things any less dangerous.

Being so close to the evacuation zone, I’ve felt the weight of collateral damage firsthand, and we unpack what that means for those of us who live at the edge of danger.

• Christopher Fox
• Daniel Blatt
• Amy Smith
• Michael Smoothie, PhD
• Luciano Mendez
• Kippie Martin

Building Bridges: Nordia Savage on Uplifting Communities in Connecticut (Part 1)

In Part 1 of our conversation with Nordia Savage, a Jamaican-born Hartford native and passionate advocate, we dive into her impactful work as a social worker and policy expert. Nordia shares her experiences with Public Allies and AmeriCorps, including her time in Dan O’Malley’s office, where she spearheaded transformative initiatives for Hartford youth. From history projects to job training and internship programs, she’s made a lasting difference in the lives of underserved communities.

But Nordia doesn’t shy away from addressing the barriers that hold Connecticut back—transportation challenges, low wages, and the lack of affordable childcare. She also highlights the critical need for stronger communication between generations and across sectors, ensuring that the incredible work happening in the state can connect and amplify its impact.

This episode is a thoughtful exploration of what it takes to drive change, break down silos, and create opportunities for everyone. Tune in to hear Nordia’s vision for a more inclusive and united Connecticut. 💬🌟🏙️

• Christopher Fox
• Daniel Blatt
• Amy Smith
• Michael Smoothie, PhD
• Luciano Mendez
• Kippie Martin