Breach Your Mind

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 You didn’t start this job to hate the people you serve, but resentment doesn’t announce itself; it builds quietly. In this episode, we take a hard look at how public service can twist into public contempt, and how unchecked negativity poisons the mission, the team, and your purpose.
 If you're rolling your eyes at every call, mentoring rookies with sarcasm, or finding yourself burned out and bitter, this is your gut check.
 You owe it to the public. You owe it to your team. You owe it to yourself.
 Time to reset. 

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 After nearly two decades in public safety, I’m not the man I used to be—and neither are most of us. In this episode, I talk about the unseen impact this work leaves on us, what it’s done to me, and how we can start taking some of that back. 

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In this episode, I share the raw, unscripted experience of stepping into unknown territory—my first time as a vendor at the 2025 Peer Support Conference in Kansas City. What started with self-doubt turned into a reaffirmation of mission. I talk about meeting incredible people from organizations like Tactical Recovery, The Forge, Copline, 10-33 Foundation, Reboot, and Guiding Star Counseling—each doing powerful work in the world of trauma-informed care for veterans, first responders, and public safety professionals.

This one’s not just a recap. It’s a reminder of why Breach Your Mind exists: to bridge the gap between trauma and treatment, to connect those who serve with those who understand, and to fight back against the stigma that still lingers in our professions.

Plus, I introduce a new podcast series—Standing in the Gap—focused on peer support, real talk, and doing the work that actually makes a difference.

Referenced Organizations in This Episode:

• Tactical Recovery
• The Forge
• Copline
• Reboot Recovery
• 10-33 Foundation
• Guiding Star Counseling (Dr. Amy Vaughn)

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Originally aired in 2021. This republished episode still hits home.

In this raw and personal episode of Breach Your Mind, Bryan and Chris revisit the timeless question: What’s my purpose—and how the hell do I find it?

Bryan shares how a message seen on a church bathroom wall—“Be still and listen”—became a guiding principle through his journey from teenage firefighter to seasoned law enforcement leader. Chris opens up about the emptiness he felt after leaving the military and how a spontaneous act of compassion revealed his deeper purpose.

🎯 Topics covered:

• Finding meaning in misery
• How your strengths may already be pointing you toward purpose
• The role of signs, silence, and reflection
• Why your purpose doesn’t need to be grand—it just needs to be real

Whether you're in transition, feeling stuck, or just questioning what's next, this episode is a reminder: Purpose doesn't shout. It whispers. You just have to get quiet enough to hear it.

💬 We'd love to hear your story. Email us at [email protected] or connect via social.

🔗 More at breachyourmind.com

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The first time I ever did CPR, it wasn’t in training—it was on an 8-month-old baby who had stopped breathing. I wasn’t ready.

What followed was trauma, a criminal investigation, and a courtroom I’ll never forget.

This is a raw, unfiltered story about what it’s really like to be a first responder when the training ends and reality begins.

If you’ve ever had to carry something heavy—this one’s for you.

🎧 Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/KDMUwWFd2_8
🌐 Learn more: https://www.breachyourmind.com

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In this raw and revealing conversation, we meet Jennifer—a seasoned death investigator who spent 20 years grappling with some of life’s darkest moments. Day after day, she witnessed tragedy up close: child homicides, brutal crime scenes, and the unimaginable weight that comes with regularly facing mortality. Over time, these compounded stresses pushed her to the edge, leading her to multiple suicide attempts.

Now, for the first time, Jennifer opens up about the toll her profession took on her mental health, why she felt she couldn’t ask for help, and the turning point that led her to choose life. She highlights an often-overlooked aspect of first responders’ experiences: the emotional burdens they carry long after the shift ends. Her story is one of resilience, hope, and the power of speaking out. Whether you’re in public safety, know someone who is, or want to understand the unseen battles others face, this episode offers a poignant reminder that, even in the darkest moments, it’s possible to find a path forward.

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 In this episode titled "Hype or Hope," we delve into President Donald Trump's recent inaugural address, delivered on January 20, 2025. Trump proclaimed the onset of a "golden age" for America, emphasizing a renewed focus on national sovereignty, safety, and prosperity. He outlined plans to reclaim national sovereignty, restore safety, and balance justice. The speech also highlighted a series of executive actions aimed at reversing policies from the previous administration, including withdrawing from the Paris Climate Treaty and pardoning individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol riot. 

 In this episode, we discuss the key themes of the speech, such as the emphasis on "America First" policies, the pledge to restore American manufacturing, and the commitment to energy independence through increased drilling. We also examine the implications of reinstating full-time office work for federal employees and the potential impact of ending government diversity, equity, and inclusion programs. 

 Join us as we explore whether this address signals genuine hope for the nation's future or if it is merely political hype. We'll provide insights into the potential effects of these proposed policies and what they mean for the American populace. 

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Can you imagine facing a life-threatening situation and emerging not only alive but more determined than ever? This gripping episode of our Resilience Series on the Breach Your Mind podcast features the astounding story of Jared Reston, a law enforcement officer who survived being shot seven times. Jared's incredible journey of recovery and continued dedication to his career will leave you inspired and reflective on your own capacity for resilience in the face of adversity.

As we launch this series, we're not just sharing stories; we're building a community. Your own stories of resilience matter, whether you've faced personal demons, navigated professional challenges, or overcome unexpected hurdles. We invite you to share these experiences with us, promising anonymity to ensure your comfort and security. By fostering a network of shared narratives, we aim to create a ripple effect of empowerment and inspiration, transcending individual experiences to uplift an entire community.

Storytelling is a profound connector, and we encourage you to reach out through social media or email, choosing the medium that best suits your comfort level. This episode is not only an invitation to listen but also a call to participate and amplify your voice. Together, let's harness our collective resilience, turning personal trials into powerful narratives that can impact and inspire others. Your engagement makes all the difference, and we’re grateful for every story that shapes our growing community.

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In this powerful episode, we dive into one of the most critical issues affecting our society today—domestic violence. With 18 years of experience in public safety, Bryan Shearouse shares his deeply personal encounters and insights into the impact domestic violence has on victims, families, and, particularly, children. Bryan discusses the importance of communication, the devastating effects of repeated exposure to violence, and how societal denial often exacerbates the problem.

In addition to sharing stories from his career, Bryan highlights the need for comprehensive mental health support and resources. He introduces the new Breach Your Mind website, which now features a dedicated crisis support page that consolidates vital resources in one easy-to-navigate space, providing help for everyone, from public safety personnel to everyday citizens.

Bryan also discusses the frustrations of repeatedly responding to domestic violence incidents, where children are often the hidden victims, and challenges societal norms that prevent men from reporting abuse. As the episode unfolds, Bryan shares harrowing stories from his time in law enforcement, including one of the worst domestic violence cases he encountered early in his career. His story serves as a stark reminder of the importance of breaking the cycle of violence and doing better as a society.

Join us in this candid conversation as we confront the harsh realities of domestic violence and the hope for change through awareness, resources, and understanding.

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