Chief’s Chats

“Chief’s Chats” is hosted by Joey Hoover, a veteran law enforcement officer and radio broadcaster. Joey Hoover’s public service career spans five decades, beginning soon after graduating from Russell County High School in Russell Springs, KY in May 1984. Chief Hoover’s 34+ year law enforcement career includes a combined 14 years as Police Chief for two agencies and 8 years as Colonel of the Kentucky State Park Rangers. Chief Hoover achieved numerous certifications including Advanced Law Enforcement Investigator and Law Enforcement Chief Executive through the Kentucky Law Enforcement Council. Growing up working in his parent’s radio stations fueled Joey Hoover’s passion for broadcasting and public service which paralleled his law enforcement career. “Chief’s Chats” was created to share true stories and real-life events that Chief Hoover personally witnessed. Some are funny. Some are heart-breaking. Some will make you wonder “did that really happen?” Some episodes will feature special guest with discussions on a variety of topics.

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Episodes

5 days ago

In this compelling episode of Chief’s Chats, host Joey Hoover talks with Ken Hill—retired Detective Lieutenant with the Kentucky State Police, Second Amendment advocate, 1770s frontier reenactor, and owner of a thriving real estate company in south-central Kentucky. Ken shares his insights on law enforcement, the importance of constitutional rights, living history, and life after retirement. It’s a deep dive into a life built on service, storytelling, and self-reliance.

Friday Jun 20, 2025

In this episode, Colonel McQueary shares insights into the unique challenges faced by Kentucky's Game Wardens, the importance of protecting our natural resources, and how modern enforcement methods are evolving. From wildlife poaching to boating safety, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the vital role Game Wardens play in preserving Kentucky's outdoors for future generations.

Friday Jun 13, 2025

In this episode, we sit down with longtime Wayne County, Kentucky Coroner Gordon Hicks to explore the realities of a job few truly understand. With decades of experience serving his community, Coroner Hicks shares powerful stories from the field, the emotional toll of the work, and the deep sense of duty that drives him. From handling crime scenes to comforting grieving families, this candid conversation offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at life and death through the eyes of a dedicated public servant.
 

Friday Jun 06, 2025

In this powerful and heartfelt episode, we sit down with Ron Black — a United States Army veteran and retired police officer with over 30 years of service. Ron shares stories from his military deployments to Panama in the late 1980s, and offers a candid look into his multifaceted law enforcement career. From patrolling the streets to working undercover in VICE, leading highway drug interdiction efforts, and enduring the tragic loss of fellow officers in the line of duty, Ron’s journey is one of resilience, dedication, and deep personal sacrifice.
You will also hear about Ron’s lifelong passion for working with police K-9s — both as a handler and a trainer — and how that work continues to inspire and shape his mission today.  This episode is a tribute to those who serve, both human and canine, and a compelling look at the realities and rewards of life as a Police Officer.

Friday May 30, 2025

In this compelling episode, I sit down with retired DEA Agent Greg Bunch who shares his extraordinary journey—beginning with his upbringing in our very own hometown. We explore how his early life shaped his career, dive into the gripping story of how he helped solve over 200 pharmacy burglaries across the U.S., and hear firsthand what it was like to serve as the United States Attaché in Mozambique.
This conversation is a rare look behind the badge, revealing the personal and professional experiences that defined over three decades in law enforcement ending with a special diplomatic assignment overseas.

Friday May 30, 2025

Welcome to the first episode of my podcast! I'm sharing the story of how I got my start in public service—a career that has now spanned over four decades. From my early days in news reporting to working as a dispatcher, firefighter, EMT, police officer, DARE instructor, and eventually Police Chief, each role shaped the person I am today.
In this episode, you'll hear about the pivotal moments, challenges, and motivations that fueled my commitment to serving others. Whether you're in public service yourself or simply curious about the path, I hope my story offers insight, inspiration, and a sense of shared purpose.

Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.

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