Blue Grit Radio: the Police Performance Podcast: Mindset, Wellness, Leadership

How many people are just going through the motions.. surviving...autopilot?  Simply existing, sub-optimally, and not LIVING?  In our high-stress, high-paced first responder careers, it's all too common.  I'm excited to feature Jon Vargas, deep thinker, firefighter, podcast host of the Grab Lives Podcast. 

Jon and I connected on his show, re-aired here in ep. 288, where we discussed the decline of first responder jobs and hypervigilance dynamics. In this follow up conversation, we talk on:

• Illusion of control and reactive response
• Nihilistic collapse and loss of purpose
• The role of trust and vulnerability
• Practical strategies for resilience and self-awareness

Join in, whether you're new to the game or been seeing and living it for some time.  These are the types of conversations we need to have, pause, and think about or else I fear we will be the Undead/Unliving.  

Grab Lives Podcast:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/grablives/id1671088910

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, promotional testing, career & mindset coaching? 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 at [email protected]

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

Want to safeguard your health and the health of your team?

United Diagnostic Services brings hospital-grade diagnostic technology directly to first responder agencies, making early detection of heart disease and cancer simpler than ever.

For more information, visit udshealth.com

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

*the opinions expressed in all episodes of this podcast and related materials do not reflect on any departments agencies. 

music credit: Drive by ASham...

As first responders, you face intense pressure and trauma daily. But what does it really take to build mental resilience in such demanding roles? In this episode, we’ll explore key insights shared by Matt Domyancic analyzing the Warrior archetype which we often (over)identify with in first responder work.  We discuss fostering meaningful psychological strength and wellness beyond the "go harder" mentality which works...until it doesn't. 

Listen along to explore how understanding how pause, humility, and integrating diverse psychological tools can foster greater resilience and wellbeing within the high-stakes worlds of police, fire, and military. This conversation challenges simplistic solutions and emphasizes holistic, humble approaches to growth and recovery.

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, promotional testing, career & mindset coaching? 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 at [email protected]

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

Want to safeguard your health and the health of your team?

United Diagnostic Services brings hospital-grade diagnostic technology directly to first responder agencies, making early detection of heart disease and cancer simpler than ever.

For more information, visit udshealth.com

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

*the opinions expressed in all episodes of this podcast and related materials do not reflect on any departments agencies. 

music credit: Drive by ASham...

In this insightful interview, retired police chief Kristen Ziman shares her leadership journey, the importance of humility, embracing continuous learning, and fostering a culture of curiosity and respect within law enforcement. Discover practical strategies for authentic leadership, overcoming imposter syndrome, and building resilient teams.

• Leadership humility and continuous learning
• Building a culture of curiosity and respectful dissent
• Overcoming imposter syndrome and self-doubt
• The role of vulnerability and authenticity in leadership
• Strategies for fostering agency culture and influence

Kristen Ziman is a dynamic leader and keynote speaker known for her transformative impact across various industries. With over 20 years of leadership experience, Kristen has a proven track record of driving organizational excellence, fostering innovation, and empowering individuals and teams to achieve their full potential.

Kristen's approach to leadership is characterized by a deep commitment to accountability, innovation, and community engagement.  Her influence extends far beyond her previous role as the first female Chief of Police in Aurora, Illinois. As a published author of the memoir "Reimagining Blue," she shares insights on leadership, resilience, and the power of optimism, drawing from her extensive experience to inspire professionals across all fields.

Her experience in managing critical incidents, including the tragic mass shooting at the Henry Pratt Company in 2019, underscores her expertise in crisis leadership and her dedication to building resilient organizations. Kristen’s leadership philosophy is universally applicable, offering valuable lessons to professionals in all sectors who are looking to optimize performance and foster a culture of excellence.

She is a sought-after speaker and consultant, recognized for her ability to guide organizations through cultural evolution and empower leaders to create lasting, positive change.

You can find and contact her on LinkedIn.

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, promotional testing, career & mindset coaching? 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 at [email protected]

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

Want to safeguard your health and the health of your team?

United Diagnostic Services brings hospital-grade diagnostic technology directly to first responder agencies, making early detection of heart disease and cancer simpler than ever.

For more information, visit udshealth.com

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

*the opinions expressed in all episodes of this podcast and related materials do not reflect on any departments agencies. 

music credit: Drive by ASham...

“Saved by the bell.”  The phrase that accompanied a situation with mounting tension… built up the the brink. A moment of dread impending, and then a sound or other type of pattern-interrupt that stops it all…

Former officer Tricia Small joins me in this episode, where she shares her intimate near-last moments on this earth, focused on ending her life while on duty, and her journey through adversity from that moment through today.

Tricia is now an integral part of Code 4 Northwest and its expansion to assist first and frontline responders across the state with a range of resources, training, and intervention tools. 

Tricia Small, Project Director for Code 4 Northwest. Tricia began her career working as a prosecutor then became a police officer fulfilling her lifelong dream until she medically retired. 

Contact her via LinkedIn and visit code4northwest.org to learn more.

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, promotional testing, career & mindset coaching? 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 at [email protected]

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

Want to safeguard your health and the health of your team?

United Diagnostic Services brings hospital-grade diagnostic technology directly to first responder agencies, making early detection of heart disease and cancer simpler than ever.

For more information, visit udshealth.com

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

*the opinions expressed in all episodes of this podcast and related materials do not reflect on any departments agencies. 

music credit: Drive by ASham...

"Culturally competent." The words get thrown around a lot in discussion, on mental health practitioner profiles, and first responder wellness trainer bios.  But what does it mean, and what does it include? 

In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Stacy Raymond and Lt. David Dachinger (ret.) as we delve into the mental health challenges faced by first responders and how cultural competence, innovative therapies like EMDR, and effective modeling can transform frontline mental health support. 

We discuss their book and resource being not only an expansive resource for first responders, but the clinicians who seek to work with and thus understand our work.  Beyond that are key insights for peer support programs, family members, and much more.

Join us for a robust discussion that combines expert insights, real-world experiences, and practical strategies to foster resilience in those who serve.

Key Topics:

• The importance of cultural competence in mental health support for first responders
• How leadership modeling influences organizational culture around mental wellness
• EMDR therapy: history, application, and impact on trauma processing
• The role of family and peer support in resilience and recovery
• The hero's journey analogy and the significance of reintegration and sharing stories
• The evolving landscape of mental health programs in fire, police, and EMS services
• Practical advice on seeking and finding the right mental health care
• The importance of intentional self-reflection and recognizing small wins

Dr. Stacy Raymond is a Clinical Psychologist who has been in private practice in Ridgefield, CT, for 27 years.  Shis is a trauma specialist and an Approved Consultant in EMDR, an approved clinician for the FOP and IAFF, and a member of the Police Psychological Services Section of IACP.  

The daughter of a retired police officer and US Marine, Stacy dedicates many of her practice hours to working with first responders and military veterans. Dr. Raympnd is also a member of the Fairfield County Trauma Response Team, a volunteer group of EMDR trained clinicians who offer CISM interventions and education to first responder departments throughout Connecticut. Stacy is a host on the popular weekly podcast, Responder Resilience.

David Dachinger is a retired Fire Lieutenant/EMT who has dedicated over 21 years to leading emergency services. Today, David hosts the podcasts "Responder Resilience" and "Igniting The Shift Within," where he engages with experts on first responder mental health, wellness, leadership, and post-traumatic growth. David also serves as a peer coach for 22Zero (https://22zero.org/), continuing his commitment to supporting first responders.

He is a co-author of the bestselling book, Helping the Helpers: The Clinician's Guide to First Responder Mental Wellness. David's journey as a stage IV cancer survivor since 2014 has fueled his passion for advocating firefighter wellness. His transformative experience with cancer led him to become a two-time international bestselling author, featured in "Cancer: From Tears to Triumph," and the co-author of the bestselling book "Live Calm With Cancer (...and Beyond)."

A two-time Grammy Award® nominee, David's career in the music industry saw him collaborate with legendary artists like Roberta Flack, Usher, Celine Dion, and The Isley Brothers as a mixing engineer and producer.

Website: https://ResponderTV.com 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responder.tv/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/responderTV/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responder-resilience-podcast/

Drstacyraymond.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, promotional testing, career & mindset coaching? 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 at [email protected]

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

Want to safeguard your health and the health of your team?

United Diagnostic Services brings hospital-grade diagnostic technology directly to first responder agencies, making early detection of heart disease and cancer simpler than ever.

For more information, visit udshealth.com

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

*the opinions expressed in all episodes of this podcast and related materials do not reflect on any departments agencies. 

music credit: Drive by ASham...

In this episode, Eric explores the timeless lessons from the legend of the Fisher King to highlight the importance of personal and organizational wellness. He emphasizes ownership, self-regulation, and the impact of morale on leadership and team performance.

Key Elements:

• The legend of the Fisher King and its relevance to leadership
• The impact of personal wellness on organizational health
• Strategies for self-regulation and emotional management
• The role of morale in team performance and leadership
• Ownership and responsibility in personal and professional 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, promotional testing, career & mindset coaching? 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 at [email protected]

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

Want to safeguard your health and the health of your team?

United Diagnostic Services brings hospital-grade diagnostic technology directly to first responder agencies, making early detection of heart disease and cancer simpler than ever.

For more information, visit udshealth.com

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

*the opinions expressed in all episodes of this podcast and related materials do not reflect on any departments agencies. 

music credit: Drive by ASham...

This episode explores the critical role of intentional culture building within organizations, featuring insights from Chief Doreen Jokerst and Major Zach Stevens. Topics include leadership development, fostering psychological safety, and practical strategies for creating a positive organizational environment.

Chief Jokerst is a founding member of The Curve, focused on modernizing policing.  Major Stevens is leading the way with hands-on regional leadership models that develops and mentors team members with a true coaching perspective.  

Key topics:

• The importance of intentionality in culture building
• Leadership development and mentorship programs
• Creating psychological safety in teams
• The role of everyday interactions in shaping culture
• Strategies for fostering community trust and engagement

Keywords:

culture, leadership, police, organizational development, psychological safety, leadership training, community trust, leadership programs, culture by design

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, promotional testing, career & mindset coaching? 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 at [email protected]

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

Want to safeguard your health and the health of your team?

United Diagnostic Services brings hospital-grade diagnostic technology directly to first responder agencies, making early detection of heart disease and cancer simpler than ever.

For more information, visit udshealth.com

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

*the opinions expressed in all episodes of this podcast and related materials do not reflect on any departments agencies. 

music credit: Drive by ASham...

"Lead by being led."

In this conversation, Eric reviews the book 'Lincoln on Leadership' by Donald T. Phillips, exploring the leadership principles exemplified by Abraham Lincoln during one of the most tumultuous times in American history. 

The discussion highlights key concepts such as the importance of values, flexibility, persuasion over coercion, maintaining hope, engaging with public opinion, empowering teams, and the role of compromise in effective leadership. Eric emphasizes that these lessons are applicable across various fields and industries, making them relevant for leaders at all levels.

• Lincoln was known for his high integrity and values.
• Effective leaders are flexible in their tactics and strategies.
• Circulating among the team fosters better relationships.
• Never act out of anger; take time to reflect before responding.
• Persuasion is more effective than coercion in leadership.
• Leaders should seek feedback and consent from their teams.
• Maintaining hope is crucial for morale and effectiveness.
• Engaging with public opinion helps leaders stay grounded.
• Compromise is a strength, not a weakness in leadership.
• Persistence and resourcefulness are key to overcoming challenges.

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, promotional testing, career & mindset coaching? 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 at [email protected]

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

Want to safeguard your health and the health of your team?

United Diagnostic Services brings hospital-grade diagnostic technology directly to first responder agencies, making early detection of heart disease and cancer simpler than ever.

For more information, visit udshealth.com

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

*the opinions expressed in all episodes of this podcast and related materials do not reflect on any departments agencies. 

music credit: Drive by ASham...

Who helps the helpers?  This is a question that organizations like Code 4 Northwest has been working to answer since before I started in this career nearly two decades ago.

If you didn't know much about first responder wellness or mental health resources, if you were in Washington, you knew about Code 4 NW.  In this episode, I am joined by Nick Bauer (retired Seattle PD Sgt) and returning guest Chief Andy McCurdy.  We talk about the new chapter we are moving into with statewide efforts and true real action for first responder resources.

We explore how Code 4 NW supports first responders with peer support, mental health resources, and community-building efforts. With insights from leaders deeply involved in this mission, we examine the evolving landscape of wellness and the tangible ways organizations can make a difference.

The lessons and topics translate beyond state lines and are a meaningful listen as we consider what we do to build and develop progress in efforts to keep our people and teams healthy, whole, balanced, and well.

Be sure to visit the new site at:

https://code4northwest.org/

For more information you can contact:

Nick at [email protected] 

Andy at [email protected]

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, promotional testing, career & mindset coaching? 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 at [email protected]

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

Want to safeguard your health and the health of your team?

United Diagnostic Services brings hospital-grade diagnostic technology directly to first responder agencies, making early detection of heart disease and cancer simpler than ever.

For more information, visit udshealth.com

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

*the opinions expressed in all episodes of this podcast and related materials do not reflect on any departments agencies. 

music credit: Drive by ASham...

In this quick episode, I answer questions that help entry-level applicants and those testing for special unit selection as well as promotions.  We cover interview tips and written test insights!

For more information check out other episodes and go to bluegritwellness.com/shop for an extensive guide for testing - so you can learn each step of the process in detail AND how to prepare.

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, promotional testing, career & mindset coaching? 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 at [email protected]

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

Want to safeguard your health and the health of your team?

United Diagnostic Services brings hospital-grade diagnostic technology directly to first responder agencies, making early detection of heart disease and cancer simpler than ever.

For more information, visit udshealth.com

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

*the opinions expressed in all episodes of this podcast and related materials do not reflect on any departments agencies. 

music credit: Drive by ASham...