We talk about back up weapons, back up lights.. back up and contingency plans for each and every call- to include the 800 pound gorilla popping out of a trunk on a traffic stop- to train our brains and prep for the best AND worst. (Wait, your FTOs didn't pitch you those scenarios??)

And yet... when we talk about our own career paths and livelihoods, we often shy away from thinking what we would do if not this job.  I am a fervent believer that embracing the eventuality of leaving this career- whether after 3 or 30 years will only make us better cops and first responders - and more engaged for all the days we ELECT to continue in this role and path.

I am joined by Devonta (returning from ep. 174) and Vince from Welcome to the Street.  We dive into skill development for the job, roles, and beyond. We talk starting new businesses and projects so that we can serve BEST with peace of mind and PASSION.

--

Devonta is a 7-year police veteran, active SWAT operator, and school resource officer. He spent six years on patrol in both Georgia and Ohio before transitioning into specialized roles. Vince is a 13-year police veteran with experience in patrol, criminal investigations, narcotics enforcement, and fire investigations. Outside of law enforcement, Vince is also a franchise owner of an ice cream shop. Together, they combine their diverse experiences to help officers save time and easily stay updated on critical legal developments, ensuring they can focus on what matters most—serving and protecting their communities.

Devonta Richardson and Vince are the founders of Welcome to The Street, where they’ve developed a unique way of delivering police news, case law, and legal updates directly to officers. Through their weekly newsletter, they make complex legal information easily digestible by cutting through the legal jargon. Their innovative approach uses scenarios and micro-learning to ensure officers truly understand and retain the material, helping them stay sharp and informed on the go.

Website: www.welcometothestreet.com

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Please help support a healthier first responder community by giving us a 5 star rating (Spotify and Apple) and a review (on Apple) to help others find the show.

Need help with entry-level OR promotional testing? Stop spinning your wheels and prep the right mindset and awareness of all the critical hiring steps with my comprehensive hiring guide:
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-------------------------------------

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Parking tickets.. logistically a challenge.  Most people don't pay them, and no action is pursued since it's unfruitful.  In addition, parking officers and attendants often are faced with conflict- even threat of violence- especially when using clunky devices like a "boot."

I am joined by Myra Bennett of Tire Tag- which provides a cost-effective solution that has dramatically improved citation collection for optimal revenue, light-weight compact devices, and significantly reduces confrontation with drivers and employees.

Also, in the spirit of off duty side hustles and income generation in retirement, Myra shares what many officers are doing to build a simple, easy business using Tire Tag and partnering with property owners in their area.

To learn more, visit tiretag.com , where you can see a video on how it works and fill out a contact to connect with their team!

Questions, topic ideas and feedback? Send a line!

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Don’t forget to follow and subscribe to Blue Grit Radio on Apple, Spotify, YouTube and more! Sharing the show and episodes to your friends, peers, circles and social platforms is one of the greatest compliments I can receive- which truly helps the show grow.

Please help support a healthier first responder community by giving us a 5 star rating (Spotify and Apple) and a review (on Apple) to help others find the show.

Need help with entry-level OR promotional testing? Stop spinning your wheels and prep the right mindset and awareness of all the critical hiring steps with my comprehensive hiring guide:
bluegritwellness.com/shop

Email me at [email protected] !

-------------------------------------

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Promo Code: BLUEGRIT - 10% off

Affiliate link: https://nutricost.com/discount/BLUEGRIT

-----------——————————-

music credit: Drive by AShamaluevMusic

We often talk on the alarming and devastating rates of depression, crisis and su-cide in first responder and veteran communities.  Bringing awareness is one thing, but as combat veteran Mark Messina discusses- we don't need more awareness- we are all keenly aware.  We need ACTION that actually addresses the issue and provides immediate help to those suffering.  

We talk about Mark's military career, raising his hand to get help, which was one step of his continuation of serving the greater good in building Grey Group Tactical and now serving as the VP for QRFUP to combat su-cidality taking far too many of our people.

-

Mark Messina is a combat-tested leader, security expert, and entrepreneur dedicated to enhancing tactical training, crisis response, and mission-readiness solutions. After retiring from the military, he founded Grey Group Tactical Inc., a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Corporation, to bring his extensive operational experience to the private sector—educating, training, and outfitting clients with mission-critical gear and knowledge.

In addition to his leadership at Grey Group Tactical, Mark serves as the Vice President of QRFUP, an organization committed to providing rapid crisis response solutions for service members, veterans, and first responders. Through QRFUP, he helps develop life-saving crisis intervention programs, ensuring that those who serve receive the support they need when they need it most.

Throughout his service, he played a crucial role in combat operations, security cooperation, and training foreign allied forces. His expertise in counterterrorism, unconventional warfare, and force protection continues to shape his approach to leadership, training, and security consulting.

Mark’s mission is clear: to challenge the status quo in the tactical industry by bridging the gap between training, technology, and real-world application. Through Grey Group Tactical and QRFUP, he continues to drive innovation in security, crisis intervention, and tactical preparedness, ensuring that those on the front lines—whether in combat, law enforcement, or emergency response—have the training and resources they need to excel and survive.

Questions, topic ideas and feedback? Send a line!

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Don’t forget to follow and subscribe to Blue Grit Radio on Apple, Spotify, YouTube and more! Sharing the show and episodes to your friends, peers, circles and social platforms is one of the greatest compliments I can receive- which truly helps the show grow.

Please help support a healthier first responder community by giving us a 5 star rating (Spotify and Apple) and a review (on Apple) to help others find the show.

Need help with entry-level OR promotional testing? Stop spinning your wheels and prep the right mindset and awareness of all the critical hiring steps with my comprehensive hiring guide:
bluegritwellness.com/shop

Email me at [email protected] !

-------------------------------------

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Promo Code: BLUEGRIT - 10% off

Affiliate link: https://nutricost.com/discount/BLUEGRIT

-----------——————————-

music credit: Drive by AShamaluevMusic

First responder careers are no joke- I have seen it be a forge for development in personal, professional arenas- in skills for leadership, problem solving, confidence and mindset.  

In this episode, we discuss all that- with former NCIS turned corporate leader turned leadership coach Rebecca Fitzsimmons.  We expand on topics of development and elevating to optimize ourselves- regardless of what career field, team and community we are working in and with!

--

Rebecca Fitzsimmons is a Leadership Coach, Podcast Host, Keynote Speaker and Author, dedicated to helping driven professionals and leaders awaken their inner leader, defy the ordinary and excel in both their careers and beyond.

Following 20 years of global experience — from her time as an Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) Special Agent leading teams in high-risk, fast-paced environments, to serving as a senior leader at a tech company, Rebecca saw first-hand how effective leadership and mindset answered every challenge.

Rebecca launched her business, Tactical Harmony, to help high performers and businesses redefine success on their own terms so they can achieve extraordinary breakthroughs and step into greater power.

Website: https://tacticalharmony.com/
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-fitzsimmons-tacticalharmony
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tacticalharmony/
Twitter: https://x.com/SoulAligned

New Book: "Unleashed: Holistic Leadership Insights from Our Canine Companions"

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DP1PPT9M

Leadership + Mindset Coaching: https://tacticalharmonyllc.hbportal.co/schedule/6526cd737ad37800bedeae7e  

Questions, topic ideas and feedback? Send a line!

To stay connected with the latest and exclusive content:

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Don’t forget to follow and subscribe to Blue Grit Radio on Apple, Spotify, YouTube and more! Sharing the show and episodes to your friends, peers, circles and social platforms is one of the greatest compliments I can receive- which truly helps the show grow.

Please help support a healthier first responder community by giving us a 5 star rating (Spotify and Apple) and a review (on Apple) to help others find the show.

Need help with entry-level OR promotional testing? Stop spinning your wheels and prep the right mindset and awareness of all the critical hiring steps with my comprehensive hiring guide:
bluegritwellness.com/shop

Email me at [email protected] !

-------------------------------------

Want a discount on the best value high-quality supplements? I've legitimately used Nutricost products easily for a decade. Whey isolate, plant proteins, collagen, vitamins, etc...??

Promo Code: BLUEGRIT - 10% off

Affiliate link: https://nutricost.com/discount/BLUEGRIT

-----------——————————-

music credit: Drive by AShamaluevMusic

We can talk a lot about wellness resources, but when someone is hurting, how does one access them?  We can think about these elusive, intangible words and ideas like "reaching out, EAP, Peer Support, and resources" but what are the different modalities, organizations, and strategies?

Shawn Thomas, retired LEO, founded 1st Responder Conferences to address this. She shares about her career, what prompted this recognition and need, and what her conferences (which I have attended) are all about.  We also hit on other LE topics like working a dog, selection processes and the necessity to be your advocate - whether for health or your training and development!

--

Shawn is the founder of 1st Responder Conferences and a retired deputy from the King County Sheriff's Office in Seattle, WA. Shawn retired in 2022 after 25 years of service as a Wellness and Resiliency Detective and a therapy K9 handler. During her career, Shawn worked patrol, served as an undercover detective, a detective in the warrant unit, transit patrol, and as an explosive K9 handler. She was also a dedicated member of the peer support team for 16 years, serving as a team lead for several of those years.

Shawn is married to Jeff, who is also a retired King County Sheriff’s Office Deputy. Together, they have two young men: Andrew, who is a volunteer resident firefighter, and Cooper, who is actively involved in the Army ROTC program and the Washington National Guard. Outside of her professional work, Shawn is passionate about supporting first responders, promoting mental health awareness, and fostering community resilience. She enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and continuing to find ways to give back to those who serve.

Website: www.1strc.org

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/1stresponderconferences

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/1st-responder-conferences

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1st_responder_conferences

Questions, topic ideas and feedback? Send a line!

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Don’t forget to follow and subscribe to Blue Grit Radio on Apple, Spotify, YouTube and more! Sharing the show and episodes to your friends, peers, circles and social platforms is one of the greatest compliments I can receive- which truly helps the show grow.

Please help support a healthier first responder community by giving us a 5 star rating (Spotify and Apple) and a review (on Apple) to help others find the show.

Need help with entry-level OR promotional testing? Stop spinning your wheels and prep the right mindset and awareness of all the critical hiring steps with my comprehensive hiring guide:
bluegritwellness.com/shop

Email me at [email protected] !

-------------------------------------

Want a discount on the best value high-quality supplements? I've legitimately used Nutricost products easily for a decade. Whey isolate, plant proteins, collagen, vitamins, etc...??

Promo Code: BLUEGRIT - 10% off

Affiliate link: https://nutricost.com/discount/BLUEGRIT

-----------——————————-

music credit: Drive by AShamaluevMusic

Here we are.. Episode 200!  It's crazy how far we've come (we certainly being you and I, those following along, joining in and sharing out).  I'm grateful for how this whole Blue Grit project, podcast and all, have grown and how they have helped me and others grow as well.  It's about elevating our community through learning and developing - whether it's our first responder community or THE Community!

Naturally, milestones are impactful times to reflect and take inventory.  Where are we, where did we come from, where are we going.  It's timely as these past couple months I have been faced with exciting new opportunities- at the SAME time being faced with frustrating, corrosive scrutiny and negativity.

Regardless, there are lessons to be learned (that I am leaning into learning!) through it all, which is in part what I share with you.  Last but not least, I summarize some reflections and challenges to you- my peeps- whether you are brand new coming into the game or seasoned like me(!) as you continue navigating and growing yourself, your teams in career and LIFE!

Questions, topic ideas and feedback? Send a line!

To stay connected with the latest and exclusive content:

Subscribe to the FREE newsletter at on bluegritwellness.com !

Don’t forget to follow and subscribe to Blue Grit Radio on Apple, Spotify, YouTube and more! Sharing the show and episodes to your friends, peers, circles and social platforms is one of the greatest compliments I can receive- which truly helps the show grow.

Please help support a healthier first responder community by giving us a 5 star rating (Spotify and Apple) and a review (on Apple) to help others find the show.

Need help with entry-level OR promotional testing? Stop spinning your wheels and prep the right mindset and awareness of all the critical hiring steps with my comprehensive hiring guide:
bluegritwellness.com/shop

Email me at [email protected] !

-------------------------------------

Want a discount on the best value high-quality supplements? I've legitimately used Nutricost products easily for a decade. Whey isolate, plant proteins, collagen, vitamins, etc...??

Promo Code: BLUEGRIT - 10% off

Affiliate link: https://nutricost.com/discount/BLUEGRIT

-----------——————————-

music credit: Drive by AShamaluevMusic

I have often been complimented for being a police leader and sharing about vulnerability in the vein of first responder and police wellness and resilience.  It's evokes a strange feeling, as I don't see why it matters more that I'm a "boss" and sharing it- as I feel much just "a guy" trying to support and invite others through this sharing of insight.

However, when I step outside of myself, although it is not more significant when leaders demonstrate an openness, it does SIGNAL and MODEL that it's ok. In a culture where stigmas, judgements, and traditional shame/blame fear responses are still so prevalent, it matters.

It is one thing when a police leader says to get help, but is struggling in silence.  It is one thing when a leader says to use the gym on duty, yet can't peel themselves from the desk due to external pressures and internal workaholism.  

If we want to see it, we have to BE it.  Which is why I'm honored to share two local police leaders who are being about it, sharing in some of their past struggles and how they are continually challenging themselves, which in my eyes is demonstrative leadership in the forge of a true culture of wellness.

Deputy Chiefs (AKA DC Duo) Julie Beard and (returning guest) Andy McCurdy join me in this powerful conversation!

Julie Beard grew up in Washington State in a police and veteran family. She is married, and she and her husband's lives are built around being outside as much as possible, volunteering with and playing sports, and spending family time with their two children. 

Julie is a graduate of the Washington and Alaska Police Corps, and started her career at the Redmond Police Department. She served there for 20 years and rose to lieutenant before being selected to serve as the Deputy Chief of the Bothell Police Department in 2024. Becoming a police officer was a childhood dream and she feels blessed to wear a badge and serve. 

Andy McCurdy has been working in law enforcement since 1991 and is currently the Deputy Chief of Sumner PD. Andy also has an extensive coaching background, Executive Director for the Police Activities League of Sumner, Director of Badges and Barbells, and Camp Director for Camp Possible where he and his wife run summer camps for blind and visually impaired children. 

Andy advocates for first responder mental health on the Board of Directors of Code 4 Northwest, is the Law Enforcement Coordinator for the Pierce County Peer Supp

Questions, topic ideas and feedback? Send a line!

To stay connected with the latest and exclusive content:

Subscribe to the FREE newsletter at on bluegritwellness.com !

Don’t forget to follow and subscribe to Blue Grit Radio on Apple, Spotify, YouTube and more! Sharing the show and episodes to your friends, peers, circles and social platforms is one of the greatest compliments I can receive- which truly helps the show grow.

Please help support a healthier first responder community by giving us a 5 star rating (Spotify and Apple) and a review (on Apple) to help others find the show.

Need help with entry-level OR promotional testing? Stop spinning your wheels and prep the right mindset and awareness of all the critical hiring steps with my comprehensive hiring guide:
bluegritwellness.com/shop

Email me at [email protected] !

-------------------------------------

Want a discount on the best value high-quality supplements? I've legitimately used Nutricost products easily for a decade. Whey isolate, plant proteins, collagen, vitamins, etc...??

Promo Code: BLUEGRIT - 10% off

Affiliate link: https://nutricost.com/discount/BLUEGRIT

-----------——————————-

music credit: Drive by AShamaluevMusic

Marriage is hard. Police marriage is harder. Ok, the dynamics can be challenging.. but is it helpful to dwell on that- or do we lean into the facts and build awareness, connection, framework, communication, trust, and structures to SUPPORT those dynamics?  (Hint: yes, that's what we aim to do!)

Enter Rebecca Lynn, of Proud Police Wife.  As the name and title describes, Rebecca shares, connects, speaks, and teaches from her lived perspective as a police spouse.  We talk about not just challenges but REAL tips, solutions and takeaways to help first responders be much more successful in their relationships and families.

--

Rebecca Lynn is the founder of Proud Police Wife (.com), a nationally recognized blog, where she provides support, encouragement, education, and resources to law enforcement families. She is also the founder and host of the Annual Police Wife Conference, a virtual conference featuring highly sought after speakers and resources to law enforcement spouses internationally. 

Rebecca Lynn is the author of The Peacemaker’s Wife, A Journal for Reflection and Encouragement for Police Wives and Girlfriends and Proud Police Wife: 90 Devotions for Women Behind the Badge. She holds a degree in Psychology and a Master's Degree in Education. Her husband has been in law enforcement for 18 years and they have three children.

Blog

Podcast

Instagram

Facebook

Check out my newest Devotional for Police Spouses Here

Questions, topic ideas and feedback? Send a line!

To stay connected with the latest and exclusive content:

Subscribe to the FREE newsletter at on bluegritwellness.com !

Don’t forget to follow and subscribe to Blue Grit Radio on Apple, Spotify, YouTube and more! Sharing the show and episodes to your friends, peers, circles and social platforms is one of the greatest compliments I can receive- which truly helps the show grow.

Please help support a healthier first responder community by giving us a 5 star rating (Spotify and Apple) and a review (on Apple) to help others find the show.

Need help with entry-level OR promotional testing? Stop spinning your wheels and prep the right mindset and awareness of all the critical hiring steps with my comprehensive hiring guide:
bluegritwellness.com/shop

Email me at [email protected] !

-------------------------------------

Want a discount on the best value high-quality supplements? I've legitimately used Nutricost products easily for a decade. Whey isolate, plant proteins, collagen, vitamins, etc...??

Promo Code: BLUEGRIT - 10% off

Affiliate link: https://nutricost.com/discount/BLUEGRIT

-----------——————————-

music credit: Drive by AShamaluevMusic

The policing testing and hiring process is daunting enough.. and then you have to be evaluated by a psychologist?  Intimidating to say the least!  In this episode, I am joined by "Doc" Jena Casas.  She breaks down what the psych eval and component are all about for applicants and agencies.

We cover takeaways from the hiring perspective and how candidates' awareness in this can help them show up their best.  (Don't forget my hiring guide on all that!)

—

Dr. Jena Casas is a Licensed Clinical and Police and Public Safety Psychologist who specializes in consultation and treatment for first responders, their families, and their organizations. She owns a private practice in Nevada and serves residents across Nevada and in PSYPact participating states. 

She also contracts with organizations to provide consultation, education, training, and crisis services. You can learn more at the ridges.com or @doc.jena.

Questions, topic ideas and feedback? Send a line!

To stay connected with the latest and exclusive content:

Subscribe to the FREE newsletter at on bluegritwellness.com !

Don’t forget to follow and subscribe to Blue Grit Radio on Apple, Spotify, YouTube and more! Sharing the show and episodes to your friends, peers, circles and social platforms is one of the greatest compliments I can receive- which truly helps the show grow.

Please help support a healthier first responder community by giving us a 5 star rating (Spotify and Apple) and a review (on Apple) to help others find the show.

Need help with entry-level OR promotional testing? Stop spinning your wheels and prep the right mindset and awareness of all the critical hiring steps with my comprehensive hiring guide:
bluegritwellness.com/shop

Email me at [email protected] !

-------------------------------------

Want a discount on the best value high-quality supplements? I've legitimately used Nutricost products easily for a decade. Whey isolate, plant proteins, collagen, vitamins, etc...??

Promo Code: BLUEGRIT - 10% off

Affiliate link: https://nutricost.com/discount/BLUEGRIT

-----------——————————-

music credit: Drive by AShamaluevMusic

When we (as an industry) fail we must not look away, but examine so we can learn from "our" collective mistakes.  This stings at best and disgraces at worst.  When so many of us are shedding our literal blood, sweat, and tears in the service of others and to elevate the badge, others would sully it.

In this episode, ret. Capt. Bill Fraass (from Ep. 186 where he teaches us about principle-based leadership and the blunderous Sheriff of San Mateo County) details the developing investigations surrounding NYPD Chief Jeff Maddrey.   It's not just the headlines, but a concerning history documented in investigations and findings.

Listen in and share out, so we can take ownership of fixing our industry through focused work, demanding accountability, and truly learning from mistakes.  As, if we don't learn from history, we are surely doomed to repeat it. 

-

Bill Fraass retired as a captain from the Sausalito Police Dept. in CA.  He is the owner/operator of Code 33 Consulting; you can find him, his book, and services at  https://code33consulting.com . 

Questions, topic ideas and feedback? Send a line!

To stay connected with the latest and exclusive content:

Subscribe to the FREE newsletter at on bluegritwellness.com !

Don’t forget to follow and subscribe to Blue Grit Radio on Apple, Spotify, YouTube and more! Sharing the show and episodes to your friends, peers, circles and social platforms is one of the greatest compliments I can receive- which truly helps the show grow.

Please help support a healthier first responder community by giving us a 5 star rating (Spotify and Apple) and a review (on Apple) to help others find the show.

Need help with entry-level OR promotional testing? Stop spinning your wheels and prep the right mindset and awareness of all the critical hiring steps with my comprehensive hiring guide:
bluegritwellness.com/shop

Email me at [email protected] !

-------------------------------------

Want a discount on the best value high-quality supplements? I've legitimately used Nutricost products easily for a decade. Whey isolate, plant proteins, collagen, vitamins, etc...??

Promo Code: BLUEGRIT - 10% off

Affiliate link: https://nutricost.com/discount/BLUEGRIT

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music credit: Drive by AShamaluevMusic