Enduring The Badge

Send us a textWhen the crackle of a firefighter's radio signals another mission, Captain Jeremy Norton of the Minneapolis Fire Department knows the dance with unpredictability begins anew. Our latest episode welcomes Jeremy, offering nearly 24 years of stories that reveal the courage and vulnerability behind the uniform. His journey—shifting from the strategic role of a battalion chief to the fiery intensity of frontline service—sheds light on the adaptability needed in emergency response. Jeremy's candid musings on retirement illustrate a philosophy that many in-service grapple with finding the right moment to step back with health and vitality still on their side.Facing the aftermath of incidents involving George Floyd, Jeremy discusses the emotional and systemic strains that bear down on first responders. This episode peels back the protective layers to discuss the unrecognized battles with PTSD, the fight against toxic masculinity within their ranks, and the pressing need for cultural change. We

Send us a textWhen Kristen Linton began sharing her life as a police wife through Instagram reels, little did she know she'd become a beacon of light for law enforcement families everywhere. On this episode, I sit down with Kristin, who brings laughter and deep insight through her books aimed at both adults and children within the police community. Her stories, like "Boots by the Door," illustrate the emotional landscape of families who wait at home, blending humor with the raw truth of loving someone behind the badge.The life of a police family is a tapestry woven with threads of resilience, love, and the ever-present tension between duty and family time. We open up about the complexities of raising children under the shadow of a badge, addressing their innocent inquiries and the stark reality of a society quick to judge. The conversation branches out to include narratives from officers themselves, with one sharing his memoir that details his trajectory from a child of a police officer to navi

Send us a textWhen a decorated officer's life spirals out of control, it's a stark reminder that beneath the badge beats the heart of a human being. Former San Francisco Police Officer Davin lays his soul bare, sharing his harrowing descent into opioid addiction following a cocktail of trauma and chronic pain that came with the job. The gripping tales of his first shift, where danger lurked behind every decision, set the stage for what becomes a life-altering struggle.Imagine carrying the weight of countless life-and-death encounters, storing each in a mental 'junk drawer' that one-day spills open. Davin's experience is a brutal testament to the often-unseen battles faced by those in law enforcement as he uncovers the reality of addiction within the ranks. The conversation takes us on a labyrinthine journey into the depths of dependency, where the fight for normalcy pits a once-respected protector of the community against his demons and the pursuit of a pain-free existence.Yet, throug

Send us a textHow do you provide effective mental health support to first responders? That's the question we tackle head-on as we sit down with Dr. Pam Arnell, executive director 2020. This trailblazing program offers a non-invasive, non-clinical approach to therapy. Dr. Arnell opens up about her passionate commitment to the cause and shares her personal experiences with 2020, providing a firsthand account of how this unique program positively impacts first responders.In our exploration of mental health, we highlight the extraordinary efforts of 22 Zero, a non-profit organization that aims to curb suicide rates among veterans and first responders. Dr. Arnell, who also founded 22 Zero, gives us an insider's perspective on the organization's operations, its peer-to-peer coaching program, and how it offers free, confidential support for veterans, first responders, and their families. We also share our personal stories, revealing how 22 Zero has been a beacon of hope for us and our loved ones.But,

Send us a textHave you ever wondered about the potential of psychedelic psychotherapy in treating mental health? Please tune into our enlightening exchange with Dr. Marisha Chilcott, a dedicated family physician with a heart for improving mental health in society, especially among first responders. Dr. Chilcott's rich experiences span her time on an urban search-and-rescue team to partnering with a firefighter. She brings the issue of mental health in high-stress professions to the forefront, underlining the urgency to destigmatize mental health issues and champion resilience and wellness.We pull back the curtain on ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, exploring its efficacy in treating mental health issues. This is much more than drug therapy; it's about forging new mental paths and transforming reactive thought patterns. We'll walk through personal experiences with ketamine and the efforts to make this revolutionary treatment more accessible, particularly for first responders. We also take a deep

Send us a textWhat if you could combat the compassion fatigue that often plagues first responders and service providers? Join me, Jerry Dean Lund, alongside Dr. Finneran, a licensed mental health counselor, as we delve into this critical issue and offer tangible strategies to prevent and recover from it. We shed light on the aftermath of the pandemic, emphasizing the need for self-care and recuperation for those who tirelessly care for others.Imagine acknowledging the trauma of being a first responder and finding ways to fill your cup to respond better to such situations. This episode addresses these harsh realities, as well as the alarmingly high rates of divorce, suicide, and alcoholism prevalent among first responders. We tie these issues back to unaddressed trauma, urging individuals and cities to invest in mental health resources and break the surrounding stigma. In addition, we welcome Dr. Finneran, a clinical psychologist, who joins us in our discussion on how cities can better support their first resp

Send us a textEver wondered what it's like to be on the front lines of wildland firefighting? Ever pondered the mental hurdles faced by these brave souls and their loved ones? Join us as we delve into the raw, unfiltered realm of wildland firefighting with our esteemed guests, Rachel, Seth, and Robin. They offer profound insights into the mental health challenges, the pressure of securing seasonal positions, and the sheer isolation that follows a grueling fire season. Rachel encapsulates the struggle of many from her personal experience, highlighting the urgent need for mental health care within this tight-knit community.Shifting gears, we shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes - the partners of these first responders. Our conversation traverses the rocky terrains of constant transitions, high expectations, and the critical need for a robust support system at home. We explore the strain firefighting can put on a family and dissect the importance of communication in maintaining healthy relationships. But

Send us a textDiscover the gripping story of Marine Corps veteran Matt Spaid in our conversation as we traverse through his life in combat zones and the battles he endured long after. With a career spanning across Iraq and Afghanistan, Matt's journey is a testament to the human spirit's resilience and strength. He shares his experiences with the Marines, the challenges he faced transitioning back into civilian life, and his ongoing fight with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Matt's tale offers a rare insight into the mind of a warrior facing an invisible enemy- PTSD. As he grapples with the aftermath of trauma, his journey towards healing is far from linear. Matt finds strength in fitness and faith, turning adversity into an opportunity for growth. The peaks and valleys of his journey include experiences as a firefighter, where past traumas resurfaced, and the emotional rollercoaster of misinformation, misdiagnosis, and mistreatment while seeking help. In the final part of our conversatio

Send us a textEver wonder how first responders manage their nutritional needs amidst their demanding jobs? Good news! We've got Megan Lautz joining us for an enlightening discussion. Megan, a registered dietitian and an expert in the world of first responders' nutrition, throws light on how she tailors evidence-based diet routines fitting into the unpredictable lifestyles of busy police officers and firefighters. She even shares her experiences of taking the CPAT and doing 24-hour shifts, giving us a glimpse into the world of first responders.Megan and I dive into an impactful discussion on mental health, diet, and the role of caffeine. She reveals how the Standard American Diet (SAD) contributes to depression and anxiety and offers practical pointers for a healthier diet for shift workers. We also debunk myths about caffeine usage in the first responder world. With Megan's expertise, we venture into the realm of dietary supplements, their implications on safety and performance, and the critica

Send us a textPicture this: a woman bravely stepping into a profession dominated by men, facing discrimination, personal attacks, and the stress of balancing motherhood with a demanding career. That woman is Lynnette Fritshaw, our remarkable guest for today's episode. A retired firefighter, Lynette's story is a tale of resilience, determination, and the power of a positive mindset in the face of adversity. Our conversation traverses the rough terrain of Lynette's experiences in the fire service, her early retirement, and the emotional toll it took on her. We look hard at Lynnette's struggle to balance the demands of her job and motherhood, her tireless efforts to prove herself in a male-dominated environment, and her quest to maintain a positive attitude amidst adversity. In the latter part of our discussion, Lynnette uncovers the healing process and the path to move forward after experiencing trauma. She offers an insightful perspective on processing emotions and the importance of acknowl

Send us a textHave you ever wondered what it's like to work on the frontlines of the homeless crisis, grappling with the challenges of addiction, mental illness, and missing persons? An eye-opening conversation with Eric Hofstein, a retired law enforcement officer, might give you the answers. With 27 years of experience under his belt, Eric takes us through his journey in law enforcement, the inspiration behind his book "What Doesn't Kill You," and his transformative perspective over the years.Ever been riveted by the intricacies of a missing persons case on your favorite crime show? We go beyond the screen with Eric, diving into the real-world obstacles those with missing loved ones face and the mental health hurdles of individuals battling substance abuse. The conversation shifts gears as we discuss the legal tangles that arise once someone turns 18 and the heart-wrenching impact of HIPAA privacy laws on families. And if you're in for a moving account, wait till Eric narrates the ta

Send us a textHave you ever wondered how law enforcement officers handle the physical and psychological trauma they often face? Join us as we sit down with Deven, a ten-year veteran in law enforcement and the creative mind behind Resilience Through Fitness. Listen to his awe-inspiring journey of recovery after a traumatic on-duty incident. Discover the role fitness played in helping him regain his strength and mental resilience. His insightful experiences provide a unique perspective that's seldom shared, making this a must-listen episode for anyone in high-risk occupations.In the aftermath of sustaining a traumatic injury while on duty, the emotional and psychological healing process can be as challenging as the physical recovery. Deven and I exchange our personal stories candidly, shedding light on the often-overlooked mental struggles that follow such events. We emphasize the imperative role of empathy and support within the community, especially for those who have experienced a similar ordeal. Our go

Send us a textCan poetry, music, and art help combat PTSD?" Struggling with PTSD himself, our guest, Edmund Dalo, co-founder of the Authentic Abstraction First Responder Foundation, has an intriguing answer to this question. An experienced first responder, Edmund talks about his journey from a PTSD diagnosis to finding a new way to heal and cope through outlets of creativity. He provides a refreshing perspective on navigating mental health issues, drawing inspiration from his experiences to help others with similar struggles.Mental health stigma, especially among first responders, is challenging to navigate. Edmund's story sheds light on this issue by revealing his initial disbelief and the accompanying shame of his PTSD diagnosis. We also touch on how spirituality influences our perception of fears and coping mechanisms. This episode stands as a beacon of resilience, hope, and the healing power of creativity. Please tune in for an insightful conversation with Edmund Dalo and discover the profound i

Send us a textToday's special guest is the compelling Dan Joseph, an honorably discharged military veteran and the author of the thought-provoking book, "Backpack to Rucksack." This episode is a deep dive into the crucial topic of mental health maintenance among our service members, an issue Dan passionately advocates for from his personal experiences. We journey through Dan's military tenure, learning about his unique leadership style, the role of vulnerability in healing, and the impact of mental health resources on our veterans. We don't just stop there. Dan shares his personal stories of childhood abuse, the strength it took to overcome it, and the transformative effect it had on him as a leader. Hear about the power that vulnerability has in creating profound connections and positive changes. We also discuss the unique mental strains military personnel face, emphasizing the need for self-care, prevention, and understanding. The rich insights and heartfelt stories shared by Dan ar

Send us a textAs your host, it was a genuine privilege to sit down with our two special guests, who shared gripping recounts from Ground Zero and the inspiring journey of an admirable non-profit, Building Homes for Heroes. Founded by our guest, Andy, the organization is about to drastically change the life of Purple Heart recipient. This conversation is a profound exploration of the lasting impact of 9-11 on our lives and the constant reminders that continue to persist. This episode is an in-depth examination of the vital role of Building Homes for Heroes in rebuilding lives and dreams. Our guests unflinchingly reveal the immense physical and emotional toll of working at Ground Zero, alongside the ongoing struggles for first responders to receive the help they need. You'll be moved by the incredible story of a father who received a distressing call about his son being injured in Afghanistan and the subsequent outpouring of love and support from the staff at Walter Reed Hospital. As we wrap up, we express

Send us a textHave you ever wondered what it’s like to walk a mile in the shoes of a first responder and the unique challenges they face? Meet Jon Vought, a seasoned South Florida Fire Department Captain who’s not only walked that mile but is striving to make it a little less rocky for his fellow first responders. Infusing his passion for CBD into his commitment to first responders’ wellbeing, John takes us on a riveting journey into the inner workings of his company, Rescue One CBD, a name fast becoming synonymous with THC-free CBD.Jon’s encounter with sleep issues post-foot surgery propelled him into the fascinating realm of CBD and its potential benefits. Amidst the discussion of the stringent process of isolating the CBD molecule and eliminating THC, John underscores the significance of third-party lab testing and the risks of sourcing CBD from untrustworthy companies. Take a deep dive into the complex relationship between sleep, inflammation, and mood as John unpacks how CBD - combined with melatonin - c

Send us a textWhat happens when your spouse's profession constantly pushes them into a hypervigilant state, and this spills over into your relationship? How do you maintain a healthy connection amidst the unique challenges first responders face? Licensed professional counselor and law enforcement spouse Cyndi Doyle joins us to explore these questions and more. In her book 'Hold the Line: How to Protect Your Essential Guide for Protecting Your Law Enforcement Relationship,' Cyndi shares insights into the hypervigilance cycle often experienced by first responders and its impact on their relationships.We also discuss how first responders can maintain personal relationships as we navigate these challenges.  Cyndi touches on how coping skills can aid in maintaining a state of vigilance without spilling into hypervigilance. We explore the conditioning that makes first responders more vigilant and the role of romantic relationships in fostering resilience.  Cyndi also shares invaluable tips on creatin

Send us a textDo you feel the weight of leadership and its loneliness? How about the struggle with mental health? Join us as we sit down with the enigmatic Off-Duty Chief, Tim Eggebraaten, who has turned his 28 years of law enforcement experience into a mission to inspire through music and stories. Get ready for an enlightening conversation that takes you from the challenges of leadership, to the importance of mental health, and the transformative power of communication.Tim shares his personal journey, including a poignant story of a friend and colleague’s suicide, and how it shaped his perspective on life and mental health. Together, we debunk the stigma of seeking help and emphasize self-care. We also delve into the silent suffering of first responders and emphasize the power of maintaining a positive outlook. Get ready to transform your leadership skills, cultivate resilience, and learn to navigate life's rough waters with grace.Finally, we explore the therapeutic benefits of journaling and expressing

Send us a textThe gripping account of Deborah Green, a retired dispatcher with over 20 years of experience, is not one to miss. As a veteran of the military, Deborah's stories, from being shot at during the 1992 LA Riots to dealing with the tragic death of an officer in a shooting, bring home the stark realities faced by first responders. Join us, as we unravel Debra's experiences, highlighting the toll dispatching takes on one's mental health, and the importance of decompression after such high-pressure situations.Our conversation goes beyond just the professional aspect. We delve into Debra's personal journey, where she shares her experience with trauma and how it affected her mental health. Hear first-hand, the impact of an officer-involved shooting that resulted in the unfortunate loss of her deputy. Deborah's openness about her therapeutic journey, the coping strategies she adopted, and the importance of peer support are heartrending and inspiring in equal measures.The challenges

Send us a textWhen 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 Five-0 Fierce and Fit, joins me, Jerry Dean Lund, as we explore this question. We navigate through the challenging world of first responders and take a deep look at how crucial it is to prioritize your own health and wellness despite the demanding nature of the job.Monica shares her journey from a criminal justice graduate to a law enforcement officer, discussing how her health challenges pushed her to focus on self-care. She shares her experiences with shoulder surgery and CrossFit competitions, emphasizing the transformative power of sleep, nutritious eating, and striking a balance between work and personal life. We also tackle the importance of mental health and wellbeing, delving into the struggle of dealing with rumors in the Academy, finding support, and being open to feedback. To wrap up, we provide practical tips for maintaining