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Enduring The Badge

Welcome to Enduring The Badge, the podcast that uncovers the untold stories of law enforcement officers, firefighters, military members, dispatchers, and emergency medical workers. These courageous individuals and their families have lived in the shadows for far too long, but that ends now. Explore these heroes' personal accounts as they witness unimaginable tragedy and reveal how it has shaped their lives.

Our podcast is hosted by Jerry Dean Lund, a seasoned veteran with over three decades of experience, and offers a unique perspective. Jerry, a Fire Captain and Law Enforcement certified SWAT Medic/Operator, knows firsthand the toll these roles can take on an individual. Discover how he triumphed over dark thoughts of suicide after sustaining an on-duty injury. But this podcast is not just about Jerry; it's about all the First Responders who have endured so much to keep us safe.

Enduring The Badge Podcast is your guide to navigating the challenging transition from work to home, finding balance on and off duty, and overcoming personal obstacles. Our content is designed to engage and entertain while providing valuable insights into the lives of First Responders.

Whether you are a First Responder or a supporter, join us on this incredible journey to honor those who risk their lives daily. Gain inspiration, knowledge, and a profound appreciation for the sacrifices made by these brave individuals. Let us share their extraordinary stories with the world.

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Recent Episodes

April 16, 2024

Embracing the Heart of Leadership: Gene Reed on Emotional Intelligenc…

Have you ever stood at life's crossroads, wondering how to weave emotional intelligence into the fabric of your leadership? Today, I sit down with Gene Reed, the mastermind behind Reed Training Solutions and author of "Police...

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April 9, 2024

JR Martinez's Insights on Inner Strength and the Art of Vulnerability

When JR Martinez, a man of indomitable spirit whose life unfolds like an epic novel, graced our podcast, we knew the conversation would be anything but ordinary. From his life-altering injury at 19 to his triumphs as an autho...

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April 2, 2024

Voices of Bravery: Crafting Stories to Mend the Invisible Scars of Se…

Have you ever considered the profound impact that sharing a story can have on healing a heart marked by trauma? This is the central theme of my heartfelt conversation with Stephen Leapley, a ghostwriter whose life has been de...

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March 19, 2024

Unlocking Potential The Therapeutic Advantages of Psychedelics with P…

Insights into the world of psychedelics, featuring Paul Austin of Third Wave. It covers responsible use and personal growth, Paul's journey in the psychedelic community, societal acceptance, and the delicate balance between responsible use and misuse for first responders. It …

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March 12, 2024

Victoria Kelly's Journey Through the Storms of Military Spousal Chall…

Navigating a life woven into the fabric of the military, Victoria Kelly opens her heart to us, recounting tales of resilience and adaptation. Each move, each deployment, she's faced head-on, not just as a military spouse, but...

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March 5, 2024

Dr. Brooke Bartlett's Blueprint for Overcoming Stigma in First Respon…

"Breaking the Stigma: Transformative Pathways to Healing for First Responders and Military Heroes" In this podcast episode, Jerry Dean Lund and clinical psychologist Brooke Bartlett discuss the critical topic of mental health support for first responders and military heroes. The …

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Feb. 20, 2024

Safeguarding Our Saviors: Retired Battalion Chief Robert Avsec on the…

In this episode, Robert Avsec, a retired battalion chief from the Chesterfield Virginia Fire and EMS department, sheds light on the mental health challenges faced by firefighters. The conversation delves into the alarming increase in suicides and the psychological impact …

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Feb. 13, 2024

Unmasking the Protector: Ashley Jones on Vulnerability and Personal G…

Ashley Jones provided eye-opening insights into the complexities of mental health within the force and the struggle to maintain integrity and personal well-being. The conversation shed light on the challenges officers face and the importance of supportive environments prioritizing mental …

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Feb. 6, 2024

A New Chapter for Heroes Brian Livingston on Life After Service

The conversation between the speaker and Brian Livingston delves into the emotional, psychological, and logistical hurdles that come with leaving behind the camaraderie and identity built in the line of duty. It emphasizes the importance of a supportive network and …

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Jan. 23, 2024

Igniting Change: Captain Jeremy Norton on Firefighting, Leadership, a…

Captain Jeremy Norton provides a compelling account of his journey as a firefighter, offering invaluable insights into the challenges, triumphs, and profound human experiences that define the firefighting profession. His narrative serves as a poignant reminder of the critical need …

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Jan. 16, 2024

Behind the Badge: Kristen Linton on the Resilience and Unity of Polic…

The podcast delves into the experiences and challenges faced by police families, featuring the story of Kristen Linton, a police wife known for sharing her insights on Instagram and through books like "Boots by the Door." It explores the emotional …

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Jan. 9, 2024

The Unseen Shield: Officer Davin's Raw Tale of Addiction, Trauma, and…

The story of Davin, a former San Francisco Police Officer, sheds light on the challenges faced by first responders, particularly the impact of opioid addiction on individuals and their families. The narrative underscores the need for mental health support within …

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Recent Blog Posts

The Silent Battle Within: Firefighters and Mental Health

The Silent Battle Within Firefighters and Mental Health Introduction: The Unseen War When the alarm bells cease their clamor, and the engines rest once more in their bays, an oft-unseen battle endures for those who brave the flames. It is within t…

Law Enforcement Work and The Critical Need To Recognize and Support The Emotional Well-being

In the latest installment of Enduring the Badge Podcast, host Jerry Dean Lund welcomes Ashley Jones, an esteemed law enforcement officer and an expert in mental and physical growth, to tackle the pressing topic of police officer mental health. The e…

Unveiling the Humanity Behind the Heroism: A Firefighter Captain's Journey

Unveiling the Humanity Behind the Heroism: A Firefighter Captain's Journey In the latest episode of our podcast, we had the honor of hosting Captain Jeremy Norton, a seasoned firefighter with extensive experience in the Minneapolis Fire Department.…