Blue Grit Radio: the Police Performance Podcast: Mindset, Wellness, Leadership
Blue Grit Radio is a podcast for police officers, first responders, and service-minded leaders, hosted by active police leader Eric Tung. It explores topics such as police leadership, officer mental health, resilience, and career development. Each episode features raw conversations and interviews with law enforcement leaders, wellness experts, and high performers. The show aims to help listeners strengthen their mindset, improve their health, and elevate their impact both on the job and in life.
Episodes
353: How Police can use Tech to Work Smarter, not Harder w/ Jamie Algatt
In a world overflowing with information, law enforcement agencies face the challenge of sifting through vast amounts of data to make informed decisions. Eric and Jamie Algatt from Sound Thinking discuss the transformative role of AI in policing, emphasizing the importance of responsible use and effective data management. Jamie stresses the necessity for law enforcement agencies to establish clear
352: Police Careers, Leadership, Tech Innovation w/ Christian Quinn
In this episode, I am joined by former police leader and tech innovator Christian Quinn for a wide-ranging conversation about a career that took an unconventional path through policing, leadership, and modern public safety. Christian shares how unexpected assignments, high-pressure roles, and a willingness to learn helped shape the way he led teams, built new programs, and navigated change inside
351: Police Career Rise, Ego, Pressure & Growth w/ Dr. Ron Camacho
In this conversation, I visit with retired chief Dr. Ron Camacho to talk about the real work behind leadership: self-awareness, humility, trust, and the courage to confront ego. Ron shares the career journey that took him from rapid promotion in policing to leading a large department, and the personal transformation that reshaped how he leads today.Ron explains that being “successful” in rank didn
350: Front-Line Police Leadership (Learning, Teaching, Training) w/ Chief Jeremy Story
In the world of policing, leadership is not just about authority; it’s about learning, growing, and mentoring others through the challenges faced along the way. In this episode, I am joined by Chief Jeremy Story, who emphasizes the importance of experiential learning and robust training in law enforcement. His journey is a testament to how mistakes can lead to profound growth and the cultivation o
349: Why are Police Teams Failing? 3 Things to Improve for Individuals and Agencies
We are at a loss. We have this Mission, but we are floundering. People don't feel they are making a difference. That their work doesn't matter.Are we here to just do a job, or are we here to serve a Purpose? Am I a replaceable cog? Do I make impact? Does anyone care if I stay or go?In this quick episode, I share three things that are lacking from many individuals and teams (and many
348: Should People Become Cops? Mentoring Next Gen Protectors w/ Sgt. Pat Morgan
In this episode, I am joined by esteemed, long-time colleague Sgt. Pat Morgan. We delve into the intricacies of policing today, addressing the evolving culture and leadership challenges within law enforcement. Significant themes of the conversation include the importance of peer support, intentional mentorship, and positive outlook within police culture. We also talk on the generational differenc
347: Identity & Challenges in Police & Law Enforcement w/ Dr. Jaimie Lusk
From its roots, compassion means "to suffer with." Careers and lifestyles in the first and frontline responder professions are inundated with exposure to stress and hurt - from the people we help in the public, to the people we work alongside daily. If left unchecked, the impacts can overwhelm us, and my guest in this episode helps not only explain the multi-layered "why," bu
346: Private Sector to Police Leader, Financial Health w/ Chief Tim Meyer
In this episode, Chief Tim Meyer shares his unique journey from private industry to the police profession, emphasizing innovative approaches to public safety, wellness, and financial planning. Discover how a mindset shift and creative strategies can transform policing and personal growth.Key Topics:Career transition from private industry to law enforcementInnovative approaches to public safety, su
345: GOOD GRIT: The Check In - Purpose, Team, and Self
We may be good at checking in on our people, our buddies, those around us. But how often do we hit pause and check in on what we are doing? The work we do, the way in which we do it? Our personal Mission? In this quick episode, I explore this discussion, starting with quick reflection on the show itself, then adding in a layer of self-check. It goes beyond a temperature gauge, and into forecastin
344: Police Profession, Greater Purpose, Stoicism and Wellness on The Chief Exchange
Hi, I'm Eric. I didn't always want to be a police officer, in fact, if you asked 10 or 18 year old Eric, he would have been likely puzzled, thinking you were joking. I find that new people are finding my podcast, writing, and newsletter continually. An introduction can thus, be helpful. This episode features an interview that I absolutely loved taking part in, as it goes far beyond m
343: GOOD GRIT - How a Kid is Helping Others Dream Again, and How You Can Help!
This job (and life) affords countless examples of inspirational things that humans are capable of. It's that much more impactful and awe striking when it's one of our youth- shining a beacon of what's possible.I saw this young man, Atharv, at a local council presentation as he shared about how his personal medical challenges as a kid, and seeing other kids struggling with devastati
342: Moral Injury, Police & First Responders, Pathways & Prevention, Dr. Brooke Bartlett returns
In this episode, Dr. Brooke Bartlett returns and discusses the concept of moral injury, its pathways, contributing factors, and strategies for recognition and support within public safety and military communities.Key Insights:The three pathways to moral injuryThe role of perception in experiencing moral injuryContributing factors like organizational policies and societal perceptionsStrategies for
341: Good GRIT - On & Off Duty Passions, Car Crash Rehab & Police, Limitless Momentum, w/ Ariana Stone
In this episode, Ariana Stone shares her inspiring journey of resilience, mental health advocacy, and leadership in first responder communities. We explore her personal experiences: grappling with extreme physical injury and rehab, innovative police programs like co-response units, building a brand that is helping first responder mental health, and practical advice for mental wellness and professi
340: Police & Martial Arts, Training, Identity & More! w/ Jason Harney
Story-telling is a key element core to our human existence, and is one that is unmatched in teaching, depicting, and building understanding. My guest, Jason Harney, retired Las Vegas Metro sergeant and veteran turned documentary creator joins me to discuss themes emergent from his career, necessity for legitimate training, and complex issues in policing lives and careers.We explore the dynamics o
339: Highs and Lows, Working K-9 Units & Rocky Mentality w/Chris Bingham
There's a saying in K-9 work: the only thing two handlers can agree on... is that the third is messed up. Luckily this isn't real true, as my guest Chris Bingham and I have much we agree on. There's another more significant saying in K-9 work - which is that the assignment will bring you the highest highs and lowest lows. Chris shares about his career in federal police work, and
338: Identity and Stoicism for Resilience, w/ Alec Wons
Alec Wons is something(s) else. You may recognize he's the name, voice, and mind behind The Chief Exchange podcast. Getting to flip the mics and get him on the interviewed side of the table, I've truly enjoyed learning more about his own story and how he arrived here, truly innovating the perspective by which we can integrate leadership and wellness- of individuals and organizations.He
337: TRUST - How Bosses Trash it and How we Rebuild it, w/ Christine Townsend (pt. 2)
In this episode, Christine Townsend returns and we highlight key lessons for building, repairing, and fostering trust for leaders.In the last episode, we discussed her story, various roles in policing and experiences as an impetus to research and dive into all things about the concept. Here, we discuss the critical role of trust in organizations, especially in law enforcement, exploring how socie
336: Broken Trust is Killing Your Organization, and What to Do About it, Christine Townsend pt. 1
In this insightful interview, Christine Townsend shares her unique journey from journalism to policing and her deep exploration of trust, moral courage, and mental health in first responder communities. We use her book (Trust) as a jump-off point for key themes that affect every relationship, perception, and organization.She shares how trust underpins organizational culture, personal resilience,
335: Ice Bath, Sauna, Red Light, Vagus Nerve Recovery Every Agency Needs, w/ Rich Ganley
Our bodies and minds get beat up by the job. The gear wearing down our posture, backs and hips. Our mainstays of caffeine and cortisol, the long shifts and hypervigilance rollercoaster that can feel like a crash out, or even scarier... like total numbness. There's something real, tangible, and scientific we can do about it all.In this episode, Rich Ganley shares his inspiring journey, focu
334: The Undead or the Un-Living? Crash & Lost Purpose in First Responder Work, w/ Jon Vargas
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 de
333: Warriors in First Responder Work, Understanding and Supporting the Warrior Archetype
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 hard
332: Empty Leadership, How to Spot It, and What to Do to Fix It
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 learningBuilding a cul
331: Dispatch Saved My Life from Suicide w/ fmr. Officer Tricia Small (First Responder Wellness & Resilience)
“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
330: Cultural Competency and Crucial Context - for First Responder, Clinicians, Family, and More
"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, in
329: The King Suffers, So Will the Kingdom. Ownership, Wellness, and Organization
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 leadershipThe impact of personal wellness on organizational healthStrategies f
328: The Leadership Forge: Culture by Design w/ Chief Doreen Jokerst & Major Zach Stephens
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 S
327: Lincoln on Leadership: Key Strategies and Tactics, Book Review
"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 wi
326: Real Responder Resources: What's Next? w/ Code 4 NW, Nick Bauer & Andy McCurdy
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 gues
325: MORE Hiring Q&A for Police and Public Safety Careers
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
324: Police & Purpose - through Unrest, Loss and the Grind, w/ Capt. Kory Flowers
The past few years highlighted many police leaders hanging up the badge - often with their sharing about how it just wasn't worth it anymore. I'm glad to be able to connect with and feature Captain Kory Flowers, who shared his enthusiasm and pride in the profession, despite what he, his team, and our industry endured. I greatly appreciated reflecting on how we are strong, not simply in
323: GOOD GRIT: Reality of Resilience, Donna Brown Returns - Responder Advocate & Trainer, Author, Police Sgt. ret.
I am grateful to premiere the new GOOD GRIT series, focused on people doing genuinely GOOD stuff out there in the community. Who better to kick this off than returning guest Donna Brown, mental health advocate, trainer and retired police sergeant?? (from ep. 32!)Donna, a retired homicide detective and author, shares her insights on resilience, identity, and the importance of gratitude in navigati
322: The REAL Gift of Gab to Build Police Teams and Save Lives w/ Alex Mann
In this engaging interview, Alex Mann shares insights on the art of communication, de-escalation, and adaptability in policing, drawing from his 28-year career and unique experience in improv comedy. Discover practical techniques for effective community engagement, the importance of flexibility, and how humor can be a powerful tool in law enforcement.The Importance of Communication in PolicingImpr
321: No More Performance Evals? Why they aren't Effective and What to do Instead, w/ Chief Scott Hughes
We all know evals are generally ineffective. They're check boxes, and often don't reflect objectively across the ranks. In this conversation, Chief Scott Hughes discusses the importance of mentorship, effective evaluations, and the need for a cultural shift in law enforcement. He emphasizes the significance of regular check-ins and positive recognition to build trust and motivate office
320: Ask for Help & Lose your Job? Confidentiality, Therapy Types, Sleep, L&I for First Responders, Police and Military w/ Drs. Thalia Nicholson & Larissa Tate
In this conversation, Dr. Thalia Nicholson and Dr. Larissa Tate discuss the mental health challenges faced by first responders and veterans, specifically the hurdle of reaching out for help, fearing loss of badge, job, clearance, and more. They emphasize the importance of evidence-based treatments, the role of rapport in therapy, and the nuances of confidentiality. The discussion also covers the s
319: What's Hurting and Helping Police and Community: Chaplain Panel Perspective, w/ Jared Altic and Matt Domyancic
"Pain shared is pain divided."This conversation delves into the multifaceted role of chaplains in supporting first responders, particularly police officers. I'm joined by chaplain GREATS- Jared Altic (Hey Chaplain! podcast) and returning guest, Matt Domyancic (Tactical Chaplain fmr. police officer). The insights go far beyond chaplain topics, but they afford us a unique view from t
318: Are you ready for FIFA World Cup?! (And other Major Event Planning, Public Safety, Emergency Management)
FIFA World Cup will prove to be the largest sporting event the USA has ever seen, and this will occur in just weeks. This is the sentiment shared from not only commentators and experts in world events, sports, geo-political arenas, but public safety and emergency management leaders across the nation.This episode explores the complexities of planning for large-scale international events like the F
317: New Tools for Nervous System Regulation w/ Emily Ireland and Light Touch
You carry the weight of the job in your body, whether you feel it or not. (When you feel it.. you know it!) The nervous system doesn't forget a shift... it keeps score. Today's episode is about what happens when you stop white-knuckling through it and actually give your body a way out. We're talking craniosacral therapy, wellness tech, and the science of a nervous system that'
316: Beyond Generational Talk, but what Police Leaders Need to DO about It! w/ Will Akin, Bill Fraass, & Tyler Comeaux
This conversation explores far beyond the dynamics of generational differences in the workforce, but what responsible police leaders need to know and do about it all. We go into communication, motivators, and succession and strategic planning insights for crucial operations.Joining me are three police leaders who have done thorough research and work on the topic: Sheriff Will Akin, Capt. Tyler Com
315: First Responder Panel: Identity Pitfalls, Lessons and Tips (pt.2) w/ Megan Amaturo, Rich Creamer, David Smith
(Part 2 of 2!) In the demanding world of first responders, the concept of identity plays a crucial role in shaping how individuals perceive themselves and their roles. This podcast episode dives deep into the complexities of identity within the first responder community, featuring insights from experienced professionals who share their journeys and the challenges they face.Host Eric opens the disc
314: First Responder Panel: Identity Pitfalls, Lessons and Tips (pt.1) w/ Megan Amaturo, Rich Creamer, David Smith
In the demanding world of first responders, the concept of identity plays a crucial role in shaping how individuals perceive themselves and their roles. This podcast episode dives deep into the complexities of identity within the first responder community, featuring insights from experienced professionals who share their journeys and the challenges they face.Host Eric opens the discussion with the
313: The Threats Beneath the Surface.. Protecting our Protectors, with Ray Lankin
According to the American Heart Association, nearly 50% of American adults over 20 have cardiovascular disease. For first responders, the risks are even higher. Worse, research shows that law enforcement officers have a 56% increased risk of dying from heart attacks between ages 55 and 59.First responders are often celebrated for their bravery and commitment, but what about the hidden threats they
312: Transforming & Improving Police Training: Insights from Tony Anderman
In this conversation, Eric and Tony Anderman discuss the intersection of leadership, training, and culture within law enforcement. They explore the importance of effective communication, emotional intelligence, and the role of mentorship in fostering a positive police culture. Tony shares insights on training strategies, the significance of emotional connections in learning, and the need for conti
311: Your Body Keeps the Score and STRESS! Tips and Solutions in Somatic work w/ Romay Nichols
In this conversation, Eric and Romay Nichols delve into the complexities of stress, particularly in the context of law enforcement and first responders. Romy shares her personal journey from experiencing severe stress and panic attacks to discovering the healing power of somatic therapy and breath work. They discuss the biological impact of stress on the body, the importance of nervous system hygi
310: The Problem with our "Wellness" Culture: Gurus, Hacks, and Bullies (Police, First Responders, and More)
I've been seeing something very disturbing in our circles of speakers, clinicians content generators... our "community." In the wellness space for first responders, there is a disturbing trend: tribalism and negativity. This "cutting down culture" contradicts everything wellness is supposed to promote. This person has the answer, these people certainly don't... thes
309: Modernizing Police through Effective Training, w/ Capt. Heather Glogolich and Scott Savage (Sgt, ret.)
This conversation delves into the critical intersections of training, leadership, and culture within policing. The panelists discuss the importance of professional development, the role of experience in decision-making, and the need for a supportive culture that encourages growth and mentorship. They also explore the concept of 'winning' in policing, emphasizing the need for officers to
308: Why Police Fail: Media, Public Relations and PIO, w/ Julie Parker
In this conversation, Eric and Julie discuss the evolution of law enforcement communication, emphasizing the importance of transparency, authenticity, and community engagement. Julie shares her journey from media to law enforcement and highlights the need for police departments to take control of their narratives through effective use of social media. They explore the challenges of communicating d
307: THE Key to Best Interview and Written Test Tips, for Police and Public Safety Entry, Promotion, Specialty Testing
Whether you are an entry level applicant, or a veteran officer seeking to get onto that high-speed unit, investigative team, or promote to the next rank, THIS quick episode is for you. Even if you aren't.. it's still relevant!I start off sharing a necessary insight for ALL interviews that most people sleep on. It goes far beyond showing up on time, having good posture, and a solid hand
306: Rock Bottom to Recovery and Resilience: Police, Special Ops, Wellness Coordinator Dylan Ignacio (pt. 2)
(**Part 2**) In this conversation, Eric and Dylan Ignacio explore the critical importance of wellness in law enforcement. Dylan shares his personal journey into policing, highlighting the challenges he faced with mental health and the strategies he employed to overcome them. They discuss the significance of resilience, positivity, and building healthy habits, as well as the role of community outre
305: Police at Rock Bottom, Hard Life and Career Lessons & Lift to Live, w/ Dylan Ignacio, pt. 1
In this conversation, Eric and Dylan Ignacio explore the critical importance of wellness in law enforcement. Dylan shares his personal journey into policing, highlighting the challenges he faced with mental health and the strategies he employed to overcome them. They discuss the significance of resilience, positivity, and building healthy habits, as well as the role of community outreach in foster
304: Rookie to Retiree Panel: Career Tips for Police and First Responders, w/ Greg Grogan and Doug White
In this engaging panel episode, Eric hosts Doug White and Greg Grogan, both seasoned veterans in policing and podcasting. They delve into the intricate balance between career and personal life, emphasizing the importance of wellness for first responders. Doug shares his journey from a 25-year law enforcement career to retirement, highlighting the challenges of identity and the need for self-care.
303: What Are We Missing? Post Incident Care, Wellness Panel, Police, Fire & Frontline Responders
This conversation features a wellness panel with industry leaders discussing the importance of peer support, mental health, and resilience in first responders. The panelists share their experiences and insights on how to effectively provide support during and after critical incidents, emphasizing the need for psychological safety, mindfulness, and community connection. They explore the role of ani
302: Tips for Healthy First Responder Culture, Organizational Wellness, Book Review Soul Therapy by Thomas Moore
In this episode, Eric delves into the concept of organizational wellness, drawing insights from Thomas Moore's book, "Soul Therapy." He emphasizes the importance of understanding the emotional dynamics within workplaces, particularly in high-stress environments like first responder organizations. Eric highlights how hierarchies can create anxiety and affect individuals' sense o
301: Officer Wellness = Community Wellness! Support, Health & Safety of ALL, w/ Dr. Carolyn Van Der Meulen, ATI
In this episode of Blue Grit Radio, Eric and Dr. Carolyn Van Der Meulen discuss the critical relationship between community wellness and the wellness of first responders. Dr. Carolyn shares her background in occupational therapy and her focus on performance, emphasizing the importance of day-to-day actions in maintaining health. They explore the significance of cultural competence in clinical prac
300: "Forever a Student" - 10 Lessons from Sparta, Career, and Life for GRIT
"Be forever a student."In this milestone episode 300, Eric reflects on his journey and shares ten valuable insights gained throughout his career, emphasizing the importance of self-leadership, resilience, and aligning values with actions. He encourages listeners to embrace continuous learning, define their identity beyond their job, and recognize the beauty in impermanence while cherishi
299: Leadership (SGT) Panel! PT 2! Critical Front-Line Roles, Styles, Impact w/ Dave Lind, Dave Struwing, Brian Frankeberger
Pt 2! This conversation delves into the critical role of first-line leadership in law enforcement, featuring a panel of experienced sergeants who share their insights on mentorship, professional development, and the importance of adaptability in leadership. The discussion emphasizes the need for servant leadership, building trust, and fostering relationships within teams to enhance performance an
298: Leadership (SGT) Panel! Critical Front-Line Roles, Styles, Impact w/ Dave Lind, Dave Struwing, Brian Frankeberger
This conversation delves into the critical role of first-line leadership in law enforcement, featuring a panel of experienced sergeants who share their insights on mentorship, professional development, and the importance of adaptability in leadership. The discussion emphasizes the need for servant leadership, building trust, and fostering relationships within teams to enhance performance and mora
297: Improving Police Culture: Losing a Brother, Stigmas, Team with FTO, Negotiator Brian Willard pt. 2
**Part 2** In this episode, Eric and Brian Willard discuss the critical importance of mental health in law enforcement, sharing personal stories and insights into the challenges officers face. They explore the cultural shifts needed to support mental wellness, the significance of peer support, and the impact of identity on mental health. Brian shares the tragic story of his brother, Andy, a forme
296: Improving Police Culture: Losing a Brother, Stigmas, Team with FTO, Negotiator Brian Willard pt. 1
In this episode, Eric and Brian Willard discuss the critical importance of mental health in law enforcement, sharing personal stories and insights into the challenges officers face. They explore the cultural shifts needed to support mental wellness, the significance of peer support, and the impact of identity on mental health. Brian shares the tragic story of his brother, Andy, a former police of
295: Be the "Glue," Your Organization's Most Important Teammates and their Traits
Every team has rockstars. The hard chargers. The high producers. The ones who get recognized.And then there’s the GLUE. I recently saw a headline highlighting this concept in by the WSJ. The glue employee isn’t always the loudest or flashiest. They don’t chase credit. But when they’re gone, everything feels harder. When they're around, they elevate cohesion; they elevate the team.In this epi
294: Tips through Police Career Stages: Learning, Adapting, Health, Leadership, w/ Lt. David Smith, Pt. 2
Part 2! In this engaging conversation, Eric and Lieutenant David Smith explore the themes of leadership, wellness, and personal growth through stages of a police career. They discuss the importance of self-reflection, the challenges faced by applicants and rookies, and the significance of understanding one's identity and purpose in the profession. The dialogue emphasizes the need for continu
293: Tips through Police Career Stages: Learning, Adapting, Health, Leadership, w/ Lt. David Smith, Pt. 1
In this engaging conversation, Eric and Lieutenant David Smith explore the themes of leadership, wellness, and personal growth through stages of a police career. They discuss the importance of self-reflection, the challenges faced by applicants and rookies, and the significance of understanding one's identity and purpose in the profession. The dialogue emphasizes the need for continuous lear
292: 7 Habits of Highly Effective Officers (and People!), Book Review, Key Takeaways for being Better Humans
Many of you may have heard of the 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey. I heard about it for years, and finally dove into it. Not only did I find it impactfully relevant for high-performance, but specific takeaways from how we may approach a first responder and police career - along with our live dynamics out uniform.I share and break down the 7 Habits as described by Covey, alon
291: Leadership Panel - Supporting People with Care & Progress, The Curve, Innovation & Development w/ Chela Cottrell & Siobhan McTighe
Effective leadership isn’t about one thing or the other; it’s about applying a multitude of skills, capacities, intentions and holding tension between them.In this episode I’m joined by two leaders who carry authenticity and astute operational insights. Sgt. Siobhan McTighe and Police Services Manager Chela Cottrell help discuss leading with people in mind, sharing and curating meaningful vision
290: Better Officer Safety, Leads, Intel Gathering w/ Police Tech, CrimeTracer
The faster the world moves, the quicker we need to move with it… and that’s only feasible with emerging, effective technology. Information is power… but only if we can actually compile, analyze, and apply it. This is where information becomes actionable intelligence. In this episode, I’m joined by Joel Ste. Marie and Paul Bailey with SoundThinking. They help discuss how CrimeTracer helps agenc
289: Police Leaders in Difficult, Uncertain Times, Stoicism, and Practical Perspective w/ Nathan Romas
In this cross-platform episode, Sgt. Nathan Romas (The Quiet Professional podcast) and I reconnect once again in this - on police leadership today. We discuss some of the challenges and dynamics of learning a new leadership role, grappling with "I don't know" and how to manage that tension.Nathan asks about the state of things with Blue Grit, which brings us right to into ways to t
288: First Responder Careers Declining? Hyper-Vigilance, Fatigue, Mind & Consciousness w/ Jon Vargas
In this special edition episode we discuss trends, challenges, and dynamics that our first responder professions are facing. Jon Vargas, active firefighter and host of the Grab Lives podcast, and I compare and contrast the pressures we are seeing in real-time and how they have evolved in our careers.We discuss how the challenges and lessons learned shaped our resolve and approaches, not just to th
287: Brain Enhancement, Neuroplasticity, Stress Reduction for Police and First Responders: Dr. Oscar Harp
We often talk about health and wellness and peak performance, but in those conversations, our brain health and optimization is often an afterthought.In this episode, Dr. Harp and I discuss this potential, I review some stand-out lessons from his book, and he details unique tips and strategies to prime and elevate our brain performance- thus our stress-reduction and a host of other benefits!--Dr. O
286: Cops! Don't be Fooled by Suspects! Violence Prevention & Building Strength w/ Raven Buckingham Aae
Cynicism is a slippery, tricky beast. It sneaks in and suffocates our resolve, our purpose, our WHY. When cops are complaining, we are playing the victim. We feel like a meaningless cog, because the difference we can make isn't so easy to be seen.A key to effectiveness is ensuring we remember the real victims- those calling 911 for help and those who are too afraid to do so. Joining me in
285: Family First, Changes in Identity, & First Responder Retirement Challenges w/ Greg Furnia
Sometimes the hardest mission is when you have to adapt to a new role. Identity is a tricky thing to grapple with when we take on this "job" which is more than that, more than a career, and even lifestyle. My guest, Greg Furnia is a retired Special Operations supervisor with a background in the US Border Patrol. He is now a personal and professional development coach who helps first r
284: What Really Matters in Professionalism for Police, and WHY, w/ (pt. 2)
Part 2/2!If we want Police and Policing to be seen as a legitimate Profession, must we focus on Professionalism - and what that truly means? When we think of the word, some think of being courteous, others diligent. For some it is higher standards, training, formal education. Joining me in this high-level conversation surrounding how we can elevate and evolve our profession are two leaders: Jeff
283: What Really Matters in Professionalism for Police, and WHY (pt. 1)
If we want Police and Policing to be seen as a legitimate Profession, must we focus on Professionalism - and what that truly means? When we think of the word, some think of being courteous, others diligent. For some it is higher standards, training, formal education. Joining me in this high-level conversation surrounding how we can elevate and evolve our profession are two leaders: Jeff Wenniger
282: Police Reducing Stigmas, Sharing Story, & Leading for Change w/ Chris Littrell
I am joined by my colleague and friend in this first responder wellness/leadership/how to improve our culture space, Chris Littrell. In this IN-PERSON conversation, we explore much of what our people and profession are struggling with : availability, vulnerability, stigmas, and what to do about it all.This episode is being also being aired on his show: Gravity, Two Feet on the Ground. You can fi
281: 7 Tips for a Healthier, More Resilient New Year! (Physical Health, Routines, Relationships & More)
New Year, unlocked and upleveled version of YOU!Whether you like to think of it as building and developing, or shaving away what's not serving you, the New Year is the perfect time to reflect and craft a strategy to live your life most optimally. In this episode, I share some quick and effective tips that span different health aspects and pillars: from nutrition and movement to habit-buildin
280: Level Up! Mindset Lessons to help Police and First Responders Overcome Challenges
In this episode of Blue Grit Radio, we dive into what it really means to step up your mental game — beyond motivation and mindset buzzwords. Drawing on the psychological insights of Carl Jung and James Hollis, we explore how true growth requires looking inward, owning your story, and facing the shadows that hold you back.This episode connects ancient wisdom with modern policing, leadership, and pe
279: Knowing Your Officers and Community, Keys to Trust, Effective Policing w/ Scott Lowry
One of the most critical responsibilities and efforts of police is trust. Trust is built through connection, understanding - it is built through KNOWING.In this episode, my guest Scott Lowry discuss how knowing how our officers are doing on a call-to-call basis helps us fully. We can identify what's going well, what we can work on, and it allows us to recognize and elevate our officers with
278: Health & Wealth, Psychology of Money Book Review, Mindset Tips for First Responders
In this episode, I share key takeaways that don’t only apply to money - as the book title infers - but all aspects of health, career and life. These concepts are tenets of human nature, and I run through how we may apply these lessons in a multi-faceted approach. In The Psychology of Money, Morgan Housel makes a compelling case that success with money has far less to do with intelligence or tech
277: Mental Beasts- Psychology for Police Officers with Anthony Shefferly & Matt Domyancic pt. 2
(Part 2 of 2!) Blue Grit started largely focused on physical health through fitness and stress management through peer support and other mental health support. Joining me in this episode are two returning guests: Matt Domyancic and Anthony Shefferly, two absolute physical AND mental beasts.What do I mean by mental beasts? Beyond the cognitive intelligence (which they both have and bring to share
276: Mental Beasts- Psychology for Police Officers with Matt Domyancic & Anthony Shefferly pt.1
Blue Grit started largely focused on physical health through fitness and stress management through peer support and other mental health support. Joining me in this episode are two returning guests: Matt Domyancic and Anthony Shefferly, two absolute physical AND mental beasts.What do I mean by mental beasts? Beyond the cognitive intelligence (which they both have and bring to share in droves in th
275: Key Tips from Police Recruiting and Retention Webinar
This episode is a recording of a webinar where I was invited to participate as part of a panel discussing the critical topics of police recruiting and retention.I was called upon from my experience in hiring and recruiting in 2022 and my continual dives into police culture and wellness to aid retention and resiliency. Joining me in the panel were Chief Travis Koltiska from Sheridan, WY and Greg Z
274: How to Integrate Technology for Effective Police Teams and Operations, w/ Chief Darrell Lowe
The world is ever evolving, so Policing needs to do the same in embracing emerging technologies. From AI and data analytics to drones, body-worn cameras, and wellness platforms, technology is rewriting how we serve, protect, and stay resilient.With innovation comes challenges: resistance, cost, training, and trust. Enter my guest: regional police leader Chief Darrell Lowe. He has leaned in and imp
