Enduring The Badge

Send us a textWhat happens when actions or events violate your deepest moral beliefs? Join us for an essential conversation with Rita Brock, Senior Vice President for Moral Injury Recovery Programs at Volunteers of America, as we dissect the profound suffering known as moral injury. Unlike PTSD, moral injury stems from moral and ethical violations, often leading to harmful coping mechanisms and even life-threatening situations. Rita shares powerful insights on how addressing these painful experiences through supportive discussions and therapeutic practices can lead to growth, wisdom, and resilience. Hear the compelling story of a Vietnam veteran who discovered the true nature of his trauma after learning about moral injury. Through this narrative, we explore the intricate overlap between moral injury and PTSD, and the heated debate over their distinct treatment approaches. Gain a deeper understanding of alternative healing methods, such as Native American rituals, and learn about an impactful pilot study by V

Send us a textHave you ever wondered what it's like to grow up with a parent who's constantly on the front lines of justice? Catherine Boyle, daughter of a Special Victims Unit Lieutenant in Philadelphia, opens up about her childhood and the unique challenges faced by children of law enforcement officers. Our conversation sheds light on the ripple effects of her father's demanding job on family dynamics and the crucial need to address the mental health of first responders' children. Catherine's transition from the fashion industry to becoming a passionate advocate for police officers and their families is truly inspiring.Balancing the intense emotional demands of law enforcement with family life is no small feat. In this episode, Catherine and I discuss the profound challenges first responders face when transitioning from traumatic work environments to nurturing their homes. We underscore the importance of creating a supportive home environment, setting boundaries, and the pivotal rol

Send us a textEver wondered how a radical shift in diet could transform your life? Join us as we welcome Eric Reynolds, better known as Keto 5-0. Eric recounts his remarkable journey of losing 80 pounds, improving his heart health, and overcoming metabolic disease through the ketogenic and carnivore diet. Initially skeptical, Eric's self-education and willingness to challenge conventional medical advice not only saved his life but ignited a passion for nutrition coaching. Now, he's dedicated to helping fellow officers reclaim their health.Retirement isn't just about financial planning; it's a pivotal moment for reassessing health and lifestyle choices. Hear firsthand about the transition from a structured career to the freedom and unpredictability of life on the road. Personal stories, such as coping with the loss of a close friend and the decision to embrace full-time camping, offer valuable insights into the emotional and physical challenges faced during this life stage. We emphasize the

Send us a textWhat if embracing a new role in your golden years could bring unparalleled joy and fulfillment? Join us as we sit down with Chris Perry, a retired Cincinnati Police Officer turned Senior Resource Officer in Amberley Village. Chris shares his remarkable journey from law enforcement to passionately supporting senior citizens, weaving in personal anecdotes about connecting elders with essential resources and combating isolation. His story is a testament to the powerful impact of community service and the joy that comes from enhancing the quality of life for seniors.Ever thought about finding purpose in the most unexpected places? Meet Chris, a 50-year-old motorcycle racer who discovered healing and growth through his love for the sport. After multiple surgeries and wrestling with PTSD, Chris found that the discipline and focus required in racing mirrored his journey towards mental wellness. Listen as he recounts his experiences, from setting small, achievable goals to mentoring others facing simila

Send us a textHow do first responders navigate the challenging terrain of maintaining control in their professional lives while relinquishing it in their personal and spiritual journeys? Today, we sit down with Jeremy Wade, the Executive Director of Mission First Alliance, who shares his transformative journey from a Seattle Police Officer to leading a non-profit aimed at supporting first responders. Jeremy opens up about his early career, the critical incidents he faced, and the immense struggles he observed among his colleagues and their families. His firsthand experiences led him to focus on peer support, resilience, and wellness within the force, all underpinned by his unwavering faith.Our conversation takes a deep dive into the unique challenges first responders face when surrendering to God, especially in a profession that values control and composure. Jeremy discusses the critical balance and self-awareness needed to prevent work from becoming an escape from deeper personal issues. We also highlight th

Send us a textWhat if your emotional well-being was just as critical as your physical health? Join us in this riveting episode of Enduring the Badge as we sit down with Don Bradley, a former police officer turned therapist, who specializes in first responders, complex trauma, PTSD, and military personnel. Bradley's no-nonsense approach to therapy sheds light on the stigma surrounding mental health support within the first responder community. He articulates the necessity of granting oneself emotional permission to heal and uses powerful analogies and metaphors to help clients better understand and internalize therapeutic lessons.Explore the depth of survival mode and its profound effect on emotional responses, particularly for those in high-stress professions. Bradley uses a captivating county fair metaphor to describe how our identities—physical, intellectual, social, and emotional—are like horses pulling a team, with the emotional horse often being the neglected one. Discover how this neglect leads to

Send us a textWhat if the badge you wear symbolizes more than authority, but a lifetime of wisdom and responsibility? Join us for an engrossing conversation with Pete Furselli, a distinguished law enforcement veteran, as he recounts his 35-year journey from the gritty streets of the Bronx to leading roles in the ATF across North America. Pete shares gripping tales from his career, from handling homicide cases to managing high-profile incidents like the Parkland and Pulse nightclub shootings. Gain invaluable insights into the significance of the badge, the evolution of law enforcement culture, and the critical lessons Pete imparts to new recruits.Effective leadership is the cornerstone of a successful law enforcement career, and this episode dives deep into what makes a great leader. Drawing from my own experiences, I reveal the importance of truly listening to your team, respecting dissenting opinions, and shunning authoritarian clichés. The conversation takes a compelling turn as we discuss my time as a supe

Send us a textWhen the weight of the badge meets the human heart, stories of valor and vulnerability emerge. Join me, Jerry Dean Lund, as I sit down with Pete Forcelli, a retired ATF agent with a 35-year tenure in law enforcement, for an honest exchange about the evolution of policing, leadership, and the challenges that come with a career dedicated to justice. Witness the journey from the Bronx's gritty streets to the complex landscape of gun trafficking, and hear Pete's personal insights into the cultural shifts within the force and the pivotal role mentorship played in reigniting his passion for the badge.Pete Friselli, with his wealth of experience, doesn't hold back on what it takes to lead with integrity. We unpack leadership qualities, communication strategies, and the pitfalls of misusing authority, delving into the essence of what creates a respected leader in law enforcement. The conversation takes a sobering turn as we discuss the controversial Operation Fast and Furious, revealing t

Send us a textHave you ever pondered the healing power of unconventional medicine? Join us as Jerry Dean Lund sits down with Josh Hailu, an ex-military officer who now champions psychedelic medicine for treating PTSD. Venture into Josh's personal narrative of confronting PTSD, the shortcomings of traditional treatments, and how his life-altering encounters with psilocybin mushrooms have propelled him to create PsychX. Together, we tackle the stigmas of mental health and the complex legal landscape surrounding psychedelic therapy, illuminating Josh's mission to support veterans, first responders, and others grappling with trauma.Embark on an exploration of psychedelic experiences and the profound insights they can foster. We unravel the crucial aspects of set, setting, and integration that shape the therapeutic process, delving into the remarkable intelligence of fungi and their potential for catalyzing significant psychological shifts. This episode is not merely a discussion on psychedelics; it&apos

Send us a textTransform your understanding of leadership and culture in high-stakes professions with insights from Michael Lopez, a distinguished coach and consultant. Our latest episode offers compelling discourse on fostering a service-oriented approach within the first responder and law enforcement communities. You'll gain a fresh perspective on leadership that resonates with a new generation of professionals who yearn to comprehend the 'why' of their actions, rather than simply executing orders. Michael draws on his vast experience to discuss the parallels between public perceptions and the pressing need for transformative change in organizations under intense scrutiny.Embark on a journey that transcends the world of first responders, touching on universal themes of transition and personal growth. We discuss how embracing the lessons from failure can enhance learning and performance, and investigate the psychological effects of fear of failure in critical professions. The conversation navig

Send us a textHave you ever considered the profound impact your childhood has on your adult life? Dr. Robb Kelly joins me, Jerry Dean Lund, to unravel the ties between early experiences and self-sabotaging behaviors, particularly in those who serve as our society's protectors. Through Dr. Kelly's personal odyssey from a musician finding solace in alcohol to overcoming alcoholism and homelessness, we gain a deep understanding of addiction's complexities and neuroscience's transformative power.This episode is not just about the struggles; it's about the triumph of the human spirit and the importance of mindset. We delve into narratives about unexpected leaders who started out with doubts but embraced a world of possibilities. The conversation extends to the mental health of first responders, the cascading effects of kindness, and the idea that contentment can come from knowing what 'enough' truly is. As we share anecdotes on the power of positive impact, you'll see why su

Send us a textHave 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 Leadership Redefined: The EQ Advantage," who embodies the transformation from a seasoned police veteran to a trailblazer in the realm of emotional intelligence for first responders. Our conversation is a deep dive into the heart of leadership, mapping out the intersection where emotional intelligence enhances not just professional relationships but also the personal well-being of those in high-stress careers.Navigating the complexities of life, Gene guides us through the four pillars of emotional intelligence—self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management—and their profound impact on the law enforcement community. We dissect the unique emotional challenges faced by first responders, where certain emotions are normalized, and ot

Send us a textWhen 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 author, actor, motivational speaker, and veteran, JR embodies what it means to be a cycle breaker. His candid reflections on personal transformation and the power of looking back to foster growth will leave you inspired and introspective. We navigated the complexities of self-honesty, the importance of feedback from loved ones, and the surprising role of stillness in our lives—a lesson I learned firsthand amid the flames of a burning Humvee.The journey didn't stop at self-reflection; it also embraced the delicate art of vulnerability and the immense strength it takes to seek support. I opened up about my father-in-law, a man whose NYPD badge didn't shield him from personal tragedy, and his initial reluctance to seek help. Our discussion underscored how vulnerability can

Send us a textHave 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 dedicated to serving those in the military and emergency services community. Through his words, we uncover how the act of storytelling can be a lifeline for individuals grappling with PTSD, providing a pathway to preserve legacies and foster connections that run soul-deep.The tales of military and first responders aren't just about valor; they're human experiences rich with emotion and complexity. This episode peels back the layers of these stories, as Stephen paints a candid picture of the lives behind the uniforms. Our discussion ventures into the intricacies of ghostwriting and the unique character development that unfolds when translating lived experiences onto the page. In a particularly moving segment, Stephen shares how his diverse background enables him to em

Send us a textDiscover the transformative realm of psychedelics as Paul Austin, the visionary behind Third Wave, joins us to unveil the intricacies of using these powerful substances responsibly for healing and personal growth. Through Paul's narrative, we traverse his evolution from conventional roots to becoming a pioneer in the psychedelic community, highlighting his profound experiences with cannabis, LSD, and psilocybin mushrooms. Delving into the societal shift towards acceptance, as reflected by legislative changes in Colorado and Oregon, we tackle the delicate subject of responsible use versus recreational misuse, particularly within the intense scenarios faced by first responders.Venture into the subtle yet impactful world of microdosing, where sub-perceptual doses of psychedelics like LSD and psilocybin offer a plethora of mental health benefits. This episode illuminates how microdosing can enhance mood, energy, and neuroplasticity, fostering a heightened sense of presence without intoxication.

Send us a textNavigating 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 as a creative beacon, illuminating the nuanced existence of those who love a service member. From a hurricane-induced home restoration with her daughters to finding harmonious frequencies with her current husband, a former Marine sniper, Victoria's narrative isn't just about survival—it's a masterclass in thriving amidst chaos.As Victoria switches the lens to her artistic endeavors, we're granted backstage access to her disciplined dance between being a writer, a full-time communication professional, and a mother to five. Her decade-long journey through the craft, punctuated by her strategy to get her stories into literary journals, reveals the meticulous orchestration required to not only pen novels and poems but also to carve out sacred spaces for

Send us a textJoin me, Jerry Dean Lund, as I sit down with Brooke Bartlett, an esteemed clinical psychologist with an unwavering commitment to the mental health of our first responders and military heroes. Brooke's expertise shines as we tackle the stigma that clouds the judgment of those in dire need of psychological support, and how dispelling these myths can create a pathway to healing. In a candid conversation, we reveal the nuances of selecting a mental health provider with the right cultural insight, likening the process to a search for a compatible partner, and the transformative power of neuroplasticity in the journey to recovery from trauma.This episode is a deep exploration of the unique challenges first responders face, and how the strength of shared experiences and open communication can alleviate the burdens carried by these brave individuals. We bring to light the idea that trauma is profoundly personal, with no two individuals experiencing it the same way, and underscore the importance of

Send us a textWhen the sirens fade and the trucks are back in the bay, what lingers in the minds of those who fight fires? Robert Absteck, a retired battalion chief, writer, and advocate from the Chesterfield Virginia Fire and EMS department, brings his expertise to our latest episode, revealing the silent battles waged within the fire service. As a member of the Fire Service Psychology Association, Absteck draws back the curtain on the mental health challenges firefighters face, from the haunting uptick in suicides to the psychological onslaught of cancer diagnoses within their ranks.The lifeline for any firefighter sidelined by injury often comes in the form of continued connection to their team and department. We unravel the critical importance of support systems that maintain a firefighter's sense of value and purpose during recovery. The discussion traverses the landscape of the Fire Service Psychology Association's efforts to foster collaboration between mental health professionals and firefig

Send us a textHave you ever wondered what lies beneath the tough exterior of a law enforcement officer? Join me, Jerry Dean Lund, as I sit down with Ashley Jones, an experienced officer and a mental and physical growth expert, for a candid discussion about the personal battles faced by those who protect and serve. We peel back the layers of the expected stoic facade to reveal the importance of vulnerability, empathy, and adaptability in policing. Navigating the complexities of mental health within the force, Ashley provides eye-opening insights into the struggle of maintaining integrity and personal well-being in a profession that often demands an unyielding front.As we explore the art of balancing life's demands with self-care, Ashley shares her transition into life coaching and the transformative power it holds. This conversation is not only for those in uniform but for anyone striving to overcome life's hurdles while aiming for success. We talk about the significance of mindset and determination,

Send us a textWhen the uniform comes off, and the badge is set aside, what's next for our first responders? Brian Livingston joins me in unraveling this question, sharing his evolution from police officer to retiree. Our conversation uncovers the seldom-spoken challenges encountered when transitioning from a life of service to the civilian world, delving into the emotional, psychological, and logistical hurdles that stand in the way.Departing from a career as a first responder isn't merely a job change—it's a complete life pivot. The camaraderie and identity forged in the line of duty often leave a void when stepping away. Brian and I navigate these profound changes, discussing the importance of a supportive network and a thought-out exit strategy. We swap stories of those who've successfully leaped, highlighting that it's not just about finding a new job but also rediscovering who you are outside the uniform.Planning for retirement isn't just a numbers game; it's about layi