Blue Grit Radio: the Police Performance Podcast: Mindset, Wellness, Leadership

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 a large agency. 

The discussion covers themes around identity, adaptability, and what it really means to stay useful as your career evolves.The conversation also opens the door to a deeper look at the balance between mission a...

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’t mean he was leading well. In fact, the pressure of rapid advancement, unresolved trauma, and a need to prove himself pushed him into a style that got results but alienated many of the pe...

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 of effective leadership qualities.

Beyond a significant background in tactics, Chief Story is a front-line, demonstrative leader, competing in the fitness tests and obstacle courses he asks of his own people.  (This is...

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 segments of society).  By recognizing them and building upon them in our direct circles of influence, we should have...

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 differences shaping today's policing landscape. 

As a proud father of a new officer, Pat reflects on the conversations he's had with his son about pursuing a career in law enforcement. We discuss the challenges of officers not being advocates for...

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," but many systems and strategies we can explore to help navigate the challenges and promote our positive resolve.

In this episode, Dr. Jamie Lusk shares insights on resilience, identity transition, moral injury, and the im...

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:

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Tim Meyer is a captain with the King County Sh...

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 forecasting to see if we are living in accordance with our ultimate path and goals.

I want to know how  YOU...

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 my background, and deep into perspectives on policing and leadership needed today.

After interviews, I feel a mixture of sentiments. I appreciate the depth of conversation that generally occurs, I feel...

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 devastating diagnoses inspired him to start his own non-profit.  He came up with the idea of taking kids' drawings of characters and creating 3D printed renderings, so they could hold their actual creations in...

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:

You can contact Dr. Brooke on prior Blue Grit Radio episodes 63 and 115.

and https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbartlettphd/

 #moral i...

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 professional growth.

Ariana is an active police officer and the founder of Limitless Momentum. She is a returning guest from the highly popular FTO panel episode, #192.

Find out more at: https://limitlessmomentum.us/

#resilience #mentalhealth #firstresponders #coresponseunits #leadership...

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 of the policing industry, shifting culture, mental health, the importance of continuous learning, and how to transition into life after policing.  Jason shares with deep perspective from his time on the street, FTO, DT instructor, investigations, re...

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 how his career evolved with key leadership, mentorship, and sponsorship.  We talk about the unique challenges and bonds with our K-9 partners and connect over...

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's an innovator, an expander, a self-developer.  It didn't take me long in conversations pre-recording to recognize how much of an abundance mindset he carries, mixed with an appreciation with integrating old kno...

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 societal shifts, organizational culture, and leadership impact trust levels. 

The conversation offers practical insights on building institutional courage, fostering authenticity, and enhancing self-trust to improve morale, performance, and community relations.

Key To...

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, and effective leadership, with practical insights on fostering trust and well-being.

We discuss:

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, focusing on proactive health strategies for first responders. Discover the ins and outs of innovative tools like red light therapy, grounding, sauna, and cold water immersion that enhance recovery, resilience, and overall wel...

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 decline of first responder jobs and hypervigilance dynamics. In this follow up conversation, we talk on:

Jo...

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 harder" mentality which works...until it doesn't. 

Listen along to explore how understanding how pause, humility, and integrating diverse psychological tools can foster greater resilience and wellbeing within the high-stakes worlds of police, fire, and military. This...

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.

Kristen Ziman is a dynamic leader and keynote speaker known for her transformative impact across various industries. With over 20 years of leadership experience, Kristen...

“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 from that moment through today.

Tricia is now an integral part of Code 4 Northwest and its expansion to assist first and frontline responders across the state with a range o...

"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, innovative therapies like EMDR, and effective modeling can transform frontline mental health support. 

We discuss their book and resource being not only an expansive resource for first responders, but the clinicians who see...

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:

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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 Stevens is leading the way with hands-on regional leadership models that develops and mentors team members with a true coaching perspective.  

Key topics:

"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 with public opinion, empowering teams, and the role of compromise in effective leadership. Eric emphasizes that these lessons are applicable across various fields and industries, making them relevant for leaders at all levels.

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 guest Chief Andy McCurdy.  We talk about the new chapter we are moving into with statewide efforts and true real action for first responder resources.

We explore how Cod...

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.

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