Brownie In Blue

Mike, a military and LE veteran, joins me on this episode. Mike has an impressive resume. He has expertise in training and instructing on all levels with military, law enforcement, and currently with unknown government special operators. Mike provides his extensive knowledge and provides great insight into the mind of a LEO at all different phases and positions. Mike references Jeff Cooper’s color code model of mental preparation of escalation of force (https://www.police1.com/police-trainers/articles/coopers-colors-a-simple-system-for-situational-awareness-Np1Ni2TbRj9EkGUN/). Please reach out to me on Instagram/Twitter and Facebook @brownieinblue, or email me at [email protected] for comments on the episode.

Saly, a victims rights advocate, speaks to help she provides to victims/witnesses of violent crime and/or abuse. Saly has been in the advocacy of victims for over two decades. She works intimately with the victims and their families along with with the major crimes detectives who are investigating the violent crimes. Her unique perspective of hearing the voice of the community through victims and witnesses to knowing the ins and outs of law enforcement is an insightful look. Saly references a great book, Emotional Survival for Law Enforcement ( http://emotionalsurvival.com) by Kevin Gilmartin, and its effect on LEOs. She also provides herself as informal support to LEOs and victims and witnesses. Her work, along with others like her , is greatly important and needs to be brought to light. If you’re in need of help please contact me at [email protected] or find me @brownieinblue on Instagram , Twitter , or Facebook. If you’re interested in a career in victims advocacy please go to http://centerforvictims.org and follow in the footsteps of great leaders like Saly.

Eric, a 16 year Law Enforcement Officer in Southern California , joins me as my guest. His career has unfolded where he’s been a great role model for disenfranchised Latin youth and has been the face and representative for his Agency in international teaching and training to Latin American officers. With the highs, he has experienced the lows through 2 Officer involved shootings and other use of force incidents that have resulted in PTSD. He’s an incredible voice that speaks from the suffering and the healing process from the traumas he’s endured . His message is powerful and if you can resonate through his story he wants you to know that you are not alone in fighting the struggles of PTSD. Thank you Eric for your bravery and vulnerability!

My New Year of 2021 guest Mr. James Geering (https://www.jamesgeering.com/about) provides great information on what “wellness” truly is and how that correlates with first responders. He delves into how sleep deprivation effects the first responder, as well as what can be done to change the mindset of “wellness” through first responder professions. James is a powerful voice in championing the mental/physical/and spiritual wellness of first responders, and does so through his successful podcast “Behind the Shield” (https://open.spotify.com/episode/2TXnSoRmFW4sUOjMLz5FGO?si=Bc2GwRoLTYK-PnvnugFhmQ&context=spotify%3Ashow%3A5zcP08rOU3BMDRVzx9dwJA). James also provides vital references that can be of guidance for those looking for their own “wellness” definition. Please also read James’s book which is listed below and also available on Amazon. Thank you James! http://www.sebastianjunger.com/tribe-by-sebastian-junger. https://docparsley.com/former-navy-seals-secret-for-better-sleep/. Book: https://www.amazon.com/One-More-Light-Humanity-Firefighter-ebook/dp/B08HJKY9CH

Howie Scott (https://www.crisisconsultantgroup.com/howie-scott/) provides his expert insight into use of force and the training that goes into being a SWAT operator. More importantly, Howie talks about how training is the most important aspect of teaching officers and recruits. He also provides a needed insight in how a properly trained officer can be the most effective for himself/herself and for the community they serve. Howie is now Master Instructor for the Crisis Consultant Group ( https://www.crisisconsultantgroup.com/). I’m honored to have his voice, knowledge and expertise as my guest . Thank you Howie! Names and sites used in this episode : https://www.forcescience.org/. https://blauerspear.com/.

Matt Domyancic ( bio: https://www.globalassociates.org/matt-domyancic/ ) joins me on this incredible episode about spirituality and what that means? and how does it relate to Law Enforcement Officers? Matt dives deep into explaining that “spirituality” encompasses more than just stating your a Christian, or Muslim, or Jewish. He explains how spirituality can come in all forms and ways; and more importantly Matt provides practical applications and suggestions in developing and/or heightening ones own spiritual growth and journey. The following are just some resources Matt provides for the listeners: Books: Warriors Return by Edward Tick; Falling Upward by Richard Rohr; The Contemplative Heart by James Finley; Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster. Websites: illuman.org ; warriorsascent.org ; globalassociates.org.

Q Hart joins on this episode . He’s an 18 year old that is wise beyond his years and a former basketball player of mine that is now playing in college. He provides the youth perspective on law enforcement and provides the insight how his upbringing in an African American household has shaped his views on modern day policing. Q is a bright young mind that instills hope for the youth of America . Thank you Q and thank you to his whole family in raising such a responsible young man.

Marc Hildebrand, veteran of the LAPD , joins me on this episode. He provides his story and describes his transformation through his career and his personal life. He gives incredible commentary of his struggles with his health and mindset and how those struggles were the catalyst to the positive and strong mindset he has now. He also talks about how the positive mindset has propelled him to start his own business that focuses on helping LEOs and de-stigmatizing “asking and seeking help”. Marc can be found on Instagram @leo_family_fitness. I’m grateful for his story and his support. Thank you Marc!

Who I am; my background; and my reasons for the podcast.  Tackling today’s big issue of policing in America!

Charlie joins me on this episode. She is a law enforcement spouse and she provides a unique perspective hardly ever focused on. She’s a mother , a wife , and most importantly the biggest support system to her Law Enforcement husband. She goes through in depth feelings about what she’s undergone in connection to the stressors of her husbands job; ultimately providing great information on how to support those that are married, dating a law enforcement officer. Charlie, Thank you for your courage in giving a voice to the silent but sturdy backbones of LEOs.