The Courage To Live

 In this short episode of The Courage to Live Podcast, Josh shares his journey into Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, from getting humbled on his very first day to discovering how the art builds confidence, quiets the “lizard brain,” and teaches problem solving under stress. He reflects on how lessons from the mat carry over into leadership, critical incidents, and everyday life, and why Jiu Jitsu offers value to anyone, from cops to business leaders to parents. 

 In this episode of The Courage to Live, Josh Bitsko sits down with his co-host, Jenna, to walk through the 2023 active shooter at UNLV. Josh was the incident commander that day. He explains how the first teams entered within seconds, why getting medical inside fast can save lives, and how the response was coordinated across agencies on a large, open campus. You will also hear the human side: the quick call Josh made to Jenna on the way, what it felt like to run the command post for hours, and what changed when he went home and chose to process the incident instead of stuffing it down. 

In this episode of The Courage to Live, Josh Bitsko unpacks the role of pain, not just physical, but emotional and relational, in shaping who we are. Drawing on personal losses, critical incidents, and lessons from the field, he shares how pain can reveal our limits, point us in a new direction, build resilience, and deepen empathy. Instead of seeing pain as punishment, Josh challenges listeners to view it as feedback and growth. This conversation is raw, practical, and a reminder that the hardest moments in life can become the foundation for strength and healing.

 In this episode of The Courage to Live, Josh Bitsko explores the phrase “leaders are readers” and why the best leadership is learned, not inherited. From his time as a police captain to conversations with mentors, Josh shares how books expand perspective, build empathy, and sharpen clarity. He breaks down excuses leaders use to avoid reading, the value of audio books, and why even ten minutes a day matters more than you think. With practical takeaways on reading with purpose and applying just one lesson from each book, this conversation is a reminder that growth is a choice and great leaders never stop learning. 

 In this episode of The Courage to Live, Josh Bitsko tackles a challenge many first responders and professionals face: giving everything to the job and having nothing left for home. Drawing from his own struggles and lessons learned, he explores why the same planning, training, and intentionality used at work must also be applied to relationships. Josh shares how neglect at home can erode trust and connection, why marriage counseling should be seen as training rather than a last resort, and practical ways to celebrate wins, schedule time, and keep relationships resilient. This conversation is about legacy, the one that matters far more than any title or badge. 

In this short episode of The Courage to Live, Josh Bitsko reflects on one of the bravest things anyone can do, be real. From his early years as a people pleasing cop to lessons learned as a leader, Josh shares how authenticity, vulnerability, and honesty can transform relationships, build trust, and strengthen resilience. He explains why pretending to be stoic only works for so long, how admitting “I don’t know” can be a powerful leadership move, and why small steps toward authenticity lead to lasting growth. A practical, heartfelt conversation on courage, self worth, and the freedom that comes from being your true self. 

In this episode of The Courage to Live, Josh Bitsko speaks openly about one of the hardest topics in policing and in life, suicide. Josh shares the story of losing his brother Jason, the guilt and anger that followed, and how those emotions shaped his understanding of what real support looks like. 

Drawing from personal experience and years in law enforcement, he explains why telling people to “reach out” often falls short and why “reaching in” can save lives. With practical insight on spotting warning signs, asking better questions, and breaking through stigma, this is an honest conversation about courage, loss, and hope for anyone who wants to help those they care about.

n this episode of The Courage to Live, Josh and Jenna revisit a SWAT operation that unfolded just six weeks after the One October Las Vegas Massacre.  Josh recounts how a SWAT operation turned into a split second fight for survival with his K9 partner Loki when a gun was raised in a dark bedroom.

Together, Josh and Jenna talk through the tactics, the emotions, and the aftermath, how anger masked shame, how compartmentalizing stopped working, and why starting therapy became the most courageous step of all. With honesty, humor, and lessons learned, they explore what it really means to lead through chaos and find healing on the other side.

In this Courage Cast, retired Police Captain Josh Bitsko explains the outlier principle and why we must prepare for rare but devastating events. Active shooter incidents are statistically uncommon, yet their impact is enormous when they happen.

Josh reflects on lessons from policing and shows how the same principle applies to business and life. High impact, low frequency events demand preparation, clear procedures, and a resilient mindset. This episode challenges you to identify your own outliers and make sure you are ready before they arrive.

In this Courage Cast, retired Police Captain Josh Bitsko explains why the grind matters more than the big event. Success in critical moments does not come from luck or talent. It comes from the daily habits, training, and mindset built long before.

Josh shares how consistent reps, mental rehearsal, and crisis preparation shape readiness under stress. Whether in policing, sports, or life, it is the unseen grind that gives you confidence when it matters most.