This episode is part two of the two-part series with Lt. Joshua Bitsko from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department.   In the first part of the series, Josh recounts the day of the October 1st, 2017 Las Vegas shooting as one of the first responders on the scene. He took listeners moment-by-moment from when he first received the call up to finding the shooter deceased in his room.   In this episode, Josh shares further insight into his mindset, emotions, and mentality during and post-incident. He also speaks about the key lessons he learned about resiliency, and the pieces that played the most important roles in helping him heal and move forward. His body cam footage from the incident can be found here -  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PlrwOaQTuFw

Aftermath of a Mass Shooting: Las Vegas Police Department Lt. Joshua Bitsko Recounts the Months and Years After the Tragedy.

Bend Don’t Break is a podcast that tells the story of police officers who have overcome significant adversity in their personal and professional lives. Through the power of story, the listener will understand the depth of resilience and personal strength that exists in the men and women who protect our communities 24x7.

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   Summary      In this episode of the Bend Don't Break Podcast, retired police chief Les Sylven and Garry Foster discuss the benefits of transcendental meditation (TM) for first responders. They explain that TM is a simple and easy practice that can help reduce stress and build resilience. They share research studies that show the effectiveness of TM in reducing PTSD symptoms and improving overall well-being. The conversation emphasizes the proactive nature of TM, highlighting its ability to enhance concentration, conflict management, and relationships. They encourage listeners to explore TM as a tool for self-care and mental wellness.       Takeaways   Taking care of our minds is just as important as taking care of our bodies, especially for first responders who experience significant trauma.  Transcendental Meditation (TM) is a simple and effective practice for reducing stress and building resilience.  Research has shown that TM is effective in reducing PTSD symptoms and improving overall well-being.  TM is a proactive measure that can improve job performance, relationships, and overall quality of life.  Anyone can learn TM, and it can be practiced anywhere, making it a convenient tool for self-care.    Chapters    00:00  Introduction 02:45  The Importance of Taking Care of Our Minds 06:08  Transcendental Meditation: A Simple Tool for Stress Reduction 08:59  Research on Transcendental Meditation and its Benefits 10:52  TM as a Proactive Measure for First Responders 24:02  Improving Job Performance and Relationships through TM   Would you like to learn more about Transcendental Meditation? Contact Garry Foster at garryfoster108@gmail.com. 

The Transcendental Power of Meditation for First Responders

 Watch our video on YouTube: https://bit.ly/4axm4Kd      Summary      In this episode, we remember Ryan Masales, also known as Chopper, who was an undercover operator for the Delta Police Department. Ryan battled brain cancer and shared his inspiring story. He discussed his early career in law enforcement, his involvement in Project Starboard, and his diagnosis of glioblastoma. Despite the challenges he faced, Ryan remained resilient and focused on spending time with his family. He emphasized the importance of realism and cherishing every moment. This conversation with Chopper and his wife Estelize covers a range of topics, including the importance of always having a plan, the role of physical fitness in their lives, Chopper's passion for tattooing, leaving a legacy, managing critical incidents, the power of love and support, finding hope in the face of adversity, the impact of a mentor, and the lessons they have learned.          Takeaways   Ryan Masales, also known as Chopper, was an undercover operator for the Delta Police Department.  He battled brain cancer and shared his inspiring story of resilience.  Ryan discussed his early career in law enforcement, his involvement in Project Starboard, and his diagnosis of glioblastoma.  He emphasized the importance of realism and cherishing every moment. Always have a plan, whether it's in policing or in life.  Physical fitness is important for both mental and physical well-being.  Find a passion that allows you to leave a lasting impact.  Support from loved ones and the community is crucial in difficult times.  Hope is a powerful motivator in the face of adversity.  Mentors play a significant role in shaping our lives.  Focus on the present and make the most of each day.      Chapters    00:00  Remembering Ryan Masales 03:56 Chopper's Early Career 10:19  Project Starboard 29:16  Glioblastoma and Realism 41:36  Managing the Condition 42:04  Always Have a Plan 44:08  The Importance of Working Out 46:19  The Art of Tattooing 50:19  Leaving a Legacy 56:50  Managing Critical Incidents 59:37  The Power of Love and Support 01:05:03  Finding Hope in the Face of Adversity 01:06:03  The Impact of a Mentor 01:19:21  Lessons Learned 

A Legacy of Resilience: Honoring Ryan Masales

   Summary      In this episode, we remember Ryan Masales, also known as Chopper, who was an undercover operator for the Delta Police Department. Ryan battled brain cancer and shared his inspiring story. He discussed his early career in law enforcement, his involvement in Project Starboard, and his diagnosis of glioblastoma. Despite the challenges he faced, Ryan remained resilient and focused on spending time with his family. He emphasized the importance of realism and cherishing every moment. This conversation with Chopper and his wife Estelize covers a range of topics, including the importance of always having a plan, the role of physical fitness in their lives, Chopper's passion for tattooing, leaving a legacy, managing critical incidents, the power of love and support, finding hope in the face of adversity, the impact of a mentor, and the lessons they have learned.          Takeaways   Ryan Masales, also known as Chopper, was an undercover operator for the Delta Police Department.  He battled brain cancer and shared his inspiring story of resilience.  Ryan discussed his early career in law enforcement, his involvement in Project Starboard, and his diagnosis of glioblastoma.  He emphasized the importance of realism and cherishing every moment. Always have a plan, whether it's in policing or in life.  Physical fitness is important for both mental and physical well-being.  Find a passion that allows you to leave a lasting impact.  Support from loved ones and the community is crucial in difficult times.  Hope is a powerful motivator in the face of adversity.  Mentors play a significant role in shaping our lives.  Focus on the present and make the most of each day.      Chapters    00:00  Remembering Ryan Masales 03:56 Chopper's Early Career 10:19  Project Starboard 29:16  Glioblastoma and Realism 41:36  Managing the Condition 42:04  Always Have a Plan 44:08  The Importance of Working Out 46:19  The Art of Tattooing 50:19  Leaving a Legacy 56:50  Managing Critical Incidents 59:37  The Power of Love and Support 01:05:03  Finding Hope in the Face of Adversity 01:06:03  The Impact of a Mentor 01:19:21  Lessons Learned  

In this episode of Bend Don't Break, Courtney Luxen from the Calgary Police Service shares her journey of overcoming functional neurological disorder (FND) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). She initially joined the police service with a background in sports medicine but fell in love with the idea of becoming a cop after seeing a female officer in action. Courtney experienced various physical symptoms, including uncontrollable blinking, breathing difficulties, and loss of motor control. After a long and challenging recovery process, she returned to work in a part-time capacity and now advocates for mental health and wellness within the police service.   Takeaways Seeking therapy and regular check-ins with a mental health professional are essential for everyone, especially those in high-stress professions like policing. Maintaining physical health, practicing gratitude, and incorporating breath work and meditation can contribute to overall well-being and resilience. Don't judge others and avoid comparing yourself to others. Each person's journey is unique, and it's important to focus on your own progress. Recovery from mental health challenges is a lifelong journey, and it's crucial to have a supportive network of friends, family, and colleagues. Never lose hope. Even in the darkest times, there is always the possibility of a better tomorrow.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:12 Becoming a Police Officer 04:05 Getting Sick and Seeking Help 08:25 Diagnosis and Treatment 10:49 Recovery and Rehabilitation 27:00 Returning to Work and Advocating for Mental Health 30:29 Lessons Learned and Advice 34:45 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

How PTSD Manifested Physically

In this episode, Chief Neil Dubord speaks with Detective Greg Linkert from the Calgary Police Service, who shares his journey of resilience in the face of adversity after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). Greg discusses his career in law enforcement, including his time in specialty sections such as the tactical team and bomb unit. He recounts the symptoms he experienced before his MS diagnosis and the challenges he faced in accepting his condition. Greg emphasizes the importance of communication, support systems, and maintaining a positive mindset. He also shares his involvement in the MS walk and peer support programs.   Takeaways   Appreciate the simple things in life and find joy in everyday experiences. Adapt and accept the challenges that come with a diagnosis or disability. Maintain open communication with your support system and seek help when needed. Choose to define your own story and focus on the possibilities rather than dwelling on the past.   Chapters   00:00 Introduction 00:15 Appreciating Simple Things 00:30 Specialty Sections in Police Career 01:25 Greg Linkert's Career Journey 03:10 Diagnosis of MS 04:08 Living with MS 05:28 Refereeing and Skating Issues 06:26 Delayed Diagnosis of MS 07:24 First Real Incident of MS Symptoms 08:55 Continued Symptoms and Denial 09:23 Seeking Medical Help 10:21 36-Hour Adventure at the ER 11:16 MS Diagnosis Confirmed 12:44 Medical Professionals Involved 13:42 Physiatrist and Coping Skills 14:38 Peer Support and MS Walk 16:05 Fear and Adapting to MS 18:05 Teaching Recruit Class and Body Worn Camera 20:04 Life Now and Physical Limitations 22:30 Walking Around the Island 23:56 Support Systems 25:23 Importance of Communication 26:53 Choosing Your Story 28:19 Peer Support and Giving Back 28:55 Message to Others 30:25 Summary and Gratitude

Aftermath of a Mass Shooting: Las Vegas Police Department Lt. Joshua Bitsko Recounts the Months and Years After the Tragedy.

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