Season 5
Dec. 19, 2023
Dr. Pam Arnell, Advocating for Comprehensive Mental Health Support for First Responders and Veterans
Effective mental health support is essential for first responders and introduces the transformative 22 Zero program. By offering a non-invasive, non-clinical approach to therapy, the program has proven to be a game-changer for veterans and first responders dealing with post-traumatic stress. In add…
Dec. 12, 2023
The Battle Within: Dr. Marisha Chilcott on Mental Health in First Responders and Innovative Treatments
Explore the potential of psychedelic psychotherapy in treating mental health, focusing on the benefits of ketamine-assisted therapy and the need to destigmatize mental health issues. Discover the transformative power of ketamine in changing thought patterns and forging new mental paths. Discuss the…
Dec. 5, 2023
Combatting Compassion Fatigue: Dr. Finneran on Improving Mental Health Support for First Responders
Jerry Dean Lund and Dr. Finneran delve into the challenges faced by first responders and service providers, providing valuable strategies to combat compassion fatigue. They stress the significance of self-care and mental health resources, shedding light on the consequences of unaddressed trauma. Th…
Nov. 28, 2023
Braving the Blaze: Exploring Mental Health, Relationships and Retention in Wildland Firefighting
Join us on the Enduring the Badge Podcast as we explore the raw and unfiltered world of wildland firefighting. Through profound insights from courageous firefighters and their loved ones, we delve into the mental health challenges, seasonal job pressure, and isolation experienced by members of this…
Nov. 21, 2023
Unseen Battlefields: Matt Spaid's Journey with Combat, PTSD, and Healing
The story of Marine Corps veteran Matt Spaid as he shares his experiences in combat zones, the challenges he faced during his transition back to civilian life, and his ongoing battle with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In this emotional journey, Matt's story highlights the transformative po…
Nov. 14, 2023
Fueling the Frontline: Megan Lautz on Nutrition Solutions for First Responders
In this episode, Megan Lautz, a registered dietitian and expert in first responders' nutrition, discusses how she tailors evidence-based diet routines for busy police officers and firefighters. She explores the impact of the Standard American Diet on mental health and offers practical tips for a he…
Nov. 7, 2023
From Fire Service to Trauma Coaching: Lynnette Fritshaw's Path of Overcoming and Healing
Lynette is a woman who fearlessly entered a male-dominated profession, facing discrimination and personal attacks, all while balancing motherhood and a demanding career. Despite the challenges, Lynette's resilience, determination, and positive mindset allowed her to overcome adversity and retire as…
Oct. 24, 2023
Navigating the Frontlines: A Glimpse into Homelessness, Missing Persons, and Complex PTSD with Eric Hofstein
This episode features a conversation with Eric Hofstein, a retired law enforcement officer with 27 years of experience working on the frontlines of the homeless crisis. He discusses the challenges of addiction, mental illness, and missing persons, as well as the legal and mental health hurdles face…
Oct. 17, 2023
Strengthening Body and Mind: Fitness as a Tool for First Responders Recovery
This podcast episode will explore the topic of resilience and mental health in high-risk occupations, focusing on law enforcement officers. The episode will feature an interview with Devin, a ten-year veteran in law enforcement who has experienced the physical and psychological trauma of a traumati…
Oct. 10, 2023
Healing the Wounds of PTSD: Edmund Dalo's Journey through Creativity
Edmund Dalo, co-founder of the Authentic Abstract First Responder Foundation, shares his journey of healing from PTSD through creativity. He addresses the stigma associated with mental health, especially among first responders, and how spirituality can influence our coping mechanisms. This inspirin…
Oct. 3, 2023
From Backpack to Rucksack: Unpacking Service Members' Mental Health with Dan Joseph
Join military veteran and author Dan Joseph as he discusses mental health among service members and the transformative power of vulnerability. Gain insights into the unique mental strains faced by military personnel and the importance of self-care. Explore the role of leadership dynamics in high-pr…
Sept. 26, 2023
Building Homes for Heroes: Honoring Sacrifices, Rebuilding Lives, and Transforming Legacies
This episode explores the critical work of Building Homes for Heroes in rebuilding lives and dreams. Guests share the physical and emotional toll of working at Ground Zero and the ongoing struggles of first responders to receive support. We hear about a father who received a distressing call about …
Sept. 19, 2023
Facing the Fire: John Vought's Crusade for CBD in First Responder Care
Meet John Vought, a South Florida Fire Department Captain who is dedicated to improving the well-being of first responders through his company, Rescue One CBD. After experiencing sleep issues post-foot surgery, John discovered the potential benefits of CBD and became passionate about its use. He em…
Sept. 12, 2023
Expert Discussion On Hypervigilance In First Responder Relationships with Cyndi Doyle
We discuss how first responders can maintain personal relationships while navigating challenges. Cyndi gives tips on coping skills, maintaining vigilance without hypervigilance, and the role of romantic relationships in building resilience. She also advises creating safe spaces for meaningful conve…
Sept. 5, 2023
Debunking Leadership and Mental Health Stigma with Off-Duty Chief, Tim Eggebraaten
Tim discusses the weight of leadership and the feeling of loneliness that often accompanies it. He also addresses the important topic of mental health and shares his personal journey, including a heartbreaking story of a colleague's suicide that shaped his perspective on life and mental well-being.
Aug. 22, 2023
Unmasking the Realities of First Responders with Deborah Green
Explores the personal journey of Debra, where she candidly discusses her experience with trauma and its impact on her mental health. It highlights the emotional toll of an officer-involved shooting that tragically resulted in losing a fellow deputy. Debra's story is heartbreaking and inspiring as s…
Aug. 15, 2023
Preserving Health Amidst Serving Others: A Talk with Monica Crawford
When the pressure of protecting others weighs heavy on your shoulders, how can you find the strength to also care for yourself? Monica Crawford, CEO and owner of Fierce 505 and Fit, joins me, Jerry Dean Lund, as we explore th...
Aug. 8, 2023
The Blue Line to Recovery: Mike Arena's Inspiring Tale
Summary: In a poignant conversation, retired police officer Mike Arena opens up about the emotional toll of his final officer-involved shooting in Ventner. Battling depression and suicidal thoughts, Mike found solace in an outpatient rehabilitation program that played a pivotal role in his recovery…
Aug. 1, 2023
Living Outside the Wire: The Human Side of Law Enforcement with Gary Eddington
In our conversation with retired bond enforcement officer Gary Eddington, we delve into the challenging world of law enforcement, going beyond the portrayal in TV dramas. With thirty years of experience in Southern California's law enforcement, Gary shares his remarkable journey from a Police Explo…
July 25, 2023
Resilience, Trauma, and Hope: A Conversation with Ryan Phillips
In this episode, Ryan Phillips, a former law offender turned mental health advocate, shares his personal journey of resilience and transformation. He discusses his struggles with memory decline, ADHD, addiction, and childhood trauma, shedding light on the hidden battles many people face. Ryan's sto…
July 18, 2023
The Power of Resilience: Bridget Truxillo's Fight against Workplace Injustice
Bridget Lawsheild, a former deputy sheriff and SWAT team member, shares her insights into navigating workplace challenges from a unique perspective. She emphasizes the importance of standing up against an unjust work environment, finding a solid support system, and harnessing mental strength to fac…
July 11, 2023
The Transformative Impact of Peer Support in Mental Health
Think about it. We all know someone who has been impacted by crime in some way. Maybe they lost a loved one, were the victim of a violent act, are experiencing PTSD, or have just been through a traumatic event. It only takes one person to help someone in need make a connection with a life-saving or…
July 4, 2023
Spreading Positivity and Fostering Support in Law Enforcement: A Conversation with Sergeant Eric Tung
Sergeant Eric Tung, a law enforcement officer with 16 years of experience, is using social media to spread positivity and support his peers. He has held various roles, including K9 officer and Field Training Officer, and currently oversees hiring and recruiting.
Eric understands the stress and t…
June 27, 2023
Unleashing Your Inner Resilience: A Conversation with Experts
Join us for an exciting opportunity to learn how to build resilience and tackle life's challenges confidently and gracefully. Public safety, wellness, and empowerment specialist Dr. Tia White and seasoned police officer Jake Steyer will debunk the myth of resilience being merely bouncing back. Deve…