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In this midweek update, we highlight the power of storytelling, the importance of humor in law enforcement, and the incredible support that makes all the difference. Returning to work after recovery is a huge milestone, and we take a moment to recognize the unwavering support from our agency—proof that when leadership and peers rally around you, it can make the road to recovery that much smoother. We also discuss why open conversations about mental health matter, the role of networking in connecting with future guests, and how shared experiences help break the stigma. Tune in for laughs, real talk, and a reminder that resilience is built through both personal strength and the support of those around us.
In Part 2 of our conversation with Jess Flores, we dive deep into the power of physical health and personal transformation. Jess shares his journey of rebuilding both mind and body after leaving law enforcement, offering insights on the challenges and victories that come with transitioning into life beyond the badge.
The biggest focus of this episode? The Next Shift Podcast—Jess' mission to help current and former officers rediscover their identity, redefine their purpose, and reignite their passions. We explore the impact his podcast is making in the law enforcement community and why these conversations are more important than ever.
If you or someone you know is navigating life after law enforcement, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in and be part of the conversation!
Next Shift Academy
In this mid-week update, Brian teases some exciting news he'll be revealing in the coming weeks! We also hit a technical snag while recording with Angela, the founder of The SIREN Project, but we're working on rescheduling. Plus, Part 2 of our conversation with Jess Flores from The Next Shift Podcast drops this Sunday! Stay tuned as we check in, share what's ahead, and continue breaking the stigma in law enforcement.
In this episode of Shielded Voices, we sit down with Jess Flores, a former law enforcement officer and the host of The Next Shift Podcast. Jess is dedicated to helping current and former officers navigate life after law enforcement, sharing powerful stories of transition, personal growth, and rediscovering purpose beyond the badge.
In Part 1 of our conversation, Jess opens up about her journey in law enforcement, the challenges of stepping away from the profession, and how she found a new sense of identity and fulfillment. She also shares the inspiration behind The Next Shift Podcast and how she's helping others redefine their future after policing.
Next Shift Academy
This week, we dive into navigating personal emotions and parenting challenges, strengthening family connections while focusing on personal growth. We'll quickly discuss the impact of the physical demands of the job on overall health and well-being. We also take a moment to acknowledge line-of-duty deaths. Plus, a sneak peek at our upcoming guest and their powerful story—don't miss it!
In this powerful second episode with Janeen Baggette, we dive deeper into the incredible work of K9's For Freedom & Independence, the non-profit she founded to train critical incident and detection dogs for first responders. Janeen shares the inspiring mission behind the organization, the life-changing impact of service dogs, and the specialized training that goes into preparing these K9s for roles in PTSD support, critical incident response, and beyond.
K9's for Freedom and Independence
It's time for your midweek update! This week on Shielded Voices, we're back with Part Two of our conversation with Janeen Baggette which comes out Sunday. We dive into her non-profit, K9s For Freedom & Independence, and the incredible work she's doing to train service dogs for first responders and those in need. Stay tuned!
We also continue to update you guys on upcoming guest and episodes to look forward to!
But it's not all serious—we also just kick back and banter, sharing some laughs and good stories along the way. If you haven't tuned in yet, now's the time! Don't miss this update—stream it now!
In Janeen Baggette's first episode on Shielded Voices, we dive into her remarkable career as a retired law enforcement officer and expert K9 handler with over 27 years of experience. She shares her journey from working in detection K9 training—spanning search and rescue, cadaver detection, narcotics, explosives, and forensic evidence recovery—to founding K9's For Freedom & Independence, a non-profit dedicated to training service and critical incident response dogs. Janeen also discusses her extensive work with PTSD service dogs, helping first responders and veterans regain independence through highly trained K9 partners. With powerful insights into the impact of working dogs on mental health and resilience, this episode explores service, sacrifice, and the healing power of man's best friend.
K9's For Freedom and Independence
This weeks Midweek update covers Janeen Bagette's two part episode dropping on Sunday. Janeen is a retired law enforcement officer, elite K9 trainer, and founder of K9's For Freedom & Independence. Janeen's episode will be released this Sunday Feb. 16th, so stay tuned. Other announcements include future guest!
In part two of our conversation with Rob Poynter, we dive into his experience with the SIREN Project and how it played a pivotal role in his personal journey. Rob opens up about the challenges he faced, the lessons he learned, and the impact of finding a supportive community focused on healing and growth. His story sheds light on the importance of mental health resources for first responders and the different paths to recovery. Tune in for an insightful and honest discussion about resilience, self-discovery, and the power of seeking help.
THE SIREN PROJECT
From the publisher's feed
Shielded Voices is a podcast co-hosted by Mitch and Brian, two law enforcement professionals with a combined 24 years of experience. As husbands, fathers, and advocates for mental health, they are dedicated to breaking the stigma surrounding mental well-being in the profession. Through candid conversations, they emphasize the power of open communication and the importance of supporting one another in this demanding career. Shielded Voices aims to create a space where first responders and their families can find understanding, resources, and encouragement to prioritize their mental health.
CONTACT:
Mitch and Brian - [email protected]
Contact #: 503-389-5419 for inquires, guest appearances, and suggestions.
Disclaimer:
The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the Shielded Voices podcast are solely those of the hosts and guests. They do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any law enforcement agency. The content shared on this podcast is for informational and personal purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice or guidance from any agency.