Half Serious
In this show we delve into various hardships that people have had and how levity and laughter helped them through it. We will cover a variety of different people with different backgrounds to help show that no matter the situation, bringing a little levity to it can help you develop more grit and resilience to see it through.
E17 In Memory of Billy Clardy
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This episode is dedicated to Billy Clardy- End of Watch December 6, 2019. In 2020 everyone remembers that COVID traumatized a generation, but before that hit in full force, this department was already suffering from an indescribable loss. Billy Clardy was murdered in the line of duty during a takedown. This podcast episode is to further facilitate his name permanently being out in the ether no matter how many years pass. He was a positive impact to everyone he came in contact with and to lose that type of a person is shattering to a community...
E16 Cocaine, Bribery, and Morals
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In this episode Tess talks to Tory. Although this is a hard topic to cover because both individuals love and respect the policing career, it is a topic that must be discussed none the less. Tory tells his story of being a new officer and dealing with a senior officer offering a bribe after Tory found a large amount of cocaine. He was ecstatic to have discovered such a great bust, when that happiness was quickly crushed by an officer looking to gain money from it. This event is highly unusual, at least...
E15: Paramedics, CPTSD, and Therapy Dogs
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This week we explore the multifaceted world of emergency medical services (EMS), discussing the importance of trust, collaboration, and mental health awareness. The guest shares memorable experiences from her career, highlighting the emotional toll of the job and the significance of compassion in patient care. We also delve into the challenges faced by EMS personnel, the impact of public perception, and the role of peer support in navigating difficult situations. The discussion emphasizes personal growth and the evolving nature of EMS, with a focus on the importance of kindness and understanding in the...
E14 Alcoholism, Ego Death, and the Foo Foo Stuff that Helps
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This conversation delves into the complexities of alcoholism, recovery, and the impact of trauma, particularly within the military context. Alex shares his personal journey of overcoming addiction, the role of peer support, and the importance of open discussions about mental health. The dialogue emphasizes the need for better resources and understanding, highlighting the significance of shared experiences in healing and recovery. They discuss the disconnect between military personnel and civilian society, the importance of vulnerability in high-stress professions, and the transformative power of seeking help and support. Alex shares his journey of recovery...
E13 (P2) Sacrifice, Loss, Guilt, and Trauma that Makes Us...Funny?
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In part II of Kevin's interview we continue his story of traumatic events. However, this week we delve into his experience with the murder of a friend, and coming close to being next. He delves into how he analyzed this mentally, for good or for bad, and what kind of a toll it took on his personal life. Luckily, this did not end how a lot do, and he was able to find the grit and support to continue on. I hope this episode speaks to those that are currently thinking there is n...
E12 (P1) Sacrifice, Loss, Guilt, and Trauma that makes us...Funny?
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This conversation explores the multifaceted experiences of a law enforcement officer, touching on health scares, military experiences, the impact of trauma, and the importance of humor in coping with difficult situations. The discussion also delves into the challenges of training new officers, the emotional toll of child-related cases, and the significance of support from family and friends during times of grief. It delves into the profound impact of grief and loss, particularly in the context of personal tragedy. Kevin shares his experiences of navigating the complexities of grief, the importance of having a...
Half Serious Season 1 Trailer
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Quick Trailer to give you snippets of what to expect when listening. Although humor and good conversation is always mixed in, we do cover some hard subjects that are often not talked about. No, not an exclusive police podcast, but since I am a retired cop, we do have a lot of those stories on here. We explore a wide variety of topics and how when there seems to be no joy in the moment, people find a way to laugh again, and keep moving forward.
TRIGGER WARNING should be assumed...
E11: Child Loss, Christianity, and Talking with an Agnostic
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This week we talk to Keith. He was on track to retiring from the military when he got a calling to change his path. During this drastic change, he also had the ultimate challenge in his belief system with the hardest loss a parent can experience. We explore his different views on Christianity and how it applies to his everyday life. Since I am what I coin an "agnostic at best" I question his stance from my point of view. This gives you a more well-rounded look at religious views without any hate m...
E10 Abuse, Power with Your Story, and Thriving On
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In this episode we talk to Jaime who was abused by her biological father as a child. Although this could have defined her and caused a tragic life direction, she instead decided to stand up for herself, and go the hard route that led to a better future. In an event that typically doesn't have a happy ending, she was able to find hers. She is thriving today with an amazing family that she laughs heartedly with everyday. Although she alone had to make the choice to speak out, once she...
E9 Training, External Hardships, and Not Quitting
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In this conversation, Keelin shares her journey in law enforcement, discussing the challenges and experiences she has faced. She reflects on her growth, the importance of mentorship, and the dynamics within a SWAT team. She emphasizes the significance of humor in policing and offers valuable advice for aspiring officers. The conversation highlights the need for strong support systems and the impact of personal experiences on professional development.
TRIGGER WARNING should be assumed with all episodes. This is real life with real problems. But along with that is real advice on how...
E8 Infertility and Coping with Decisions
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In this conversation, Cindy Adams shares her journey from law enforcement to motherhood, discussing the challenges she faced in both her career and personal life. She reflects on her experiences as a state trooper, the camaraderie within law enforcement, and the emotional struggles of infertility. Cindy emphasizes the importance of building relationships in her career and coping mechanisms that helped her navigate the emotional weight of her journey. Cindy shares her deeply personal journey through infertility, discussing the emotional and financial challenges she faced while trying to conceive. She emphasizes the importance of...
E7 The Iron Curtain, Swimming, and Redefining Success
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This conversation explores the journey of Ildiko Szekely. She began swimming at the age of three in the midst of a communist regime in Hungary. She was lucky enough to make it to the States when she turned seventeen due to her swimming talents. Now, the road to the US was unimaginable for those that have experienced the normal club swimming temperament. But, her journey did not end there. She has continued to thrive and challenge herself in ways we should all aspire to do. Currently, she is better known as "swimplify" on so...
E6 Vehicle Pursuits and Positive Outlooks
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A retired cop and ex-marine discusses some of the worst calls that he has been on and how he was able to continue to show up, even though the calls never seemed to get any better. He discusses camaraderie and expectation of those around you to include the levity a team can bring to a situation. He was a perpetual shit magnet for the most messed up calls which gave him a leg up on experience, but a harsh perspective on life. However, even though this career has taken some of those closest to...
E5 Addiction, Divorce, and Butt Air
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We explore complexities of life, emphasizing importance of taking life half seriously while navigating through hardships. They share personal stories, reflect on family dynamics, and grit. The conversation highlights the significance of self-discovery, empowerment through adversity, and the impact of support systems in overcoming challenges. Listeners are encouraged to learn from their own experiences, and recognize the strength found in vulnerability.Â
TRIGGER WARNING should be assumed with all episodes. This is real life with real problems. But along with that is real advice on how they got through it. Listen long e...
E4 Mental Tolls and Raw Chicken
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This conversation delves into the experiences of law enforcement professionals, focusing on leadership, emotional challenges, and the importance of camaraderie and humor in coping with the stresses of the job. The speakers reflect on personal sacrifices made throughout their careers, the impact of community support, and the significance of mentorship in shaping future leaders in policing. They emphasize the need for resilience and the value of living life to the fullest, despite the challenges faced in their professions.
TRIGGER WARNING should be assumed with all episodes. This is...
E3 Agoraphobia And Coaching
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In Episode 3 we talk to seasoned swim coach, Richard Mull. Although I got to know him when he coached at Michigan State, he has had a plethora of other experiences and achievements that are too numerous to name. In this episode he discusses some of the challenges he experienced in coaching and how a simple outlook trick, altered his ability to cope. If you known him, you love and respect him, so please take a moment to show some love to one of the best human beings I have ever known.Â
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E2 Stabbings and Frogger
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In this episode we that describe some dire situations he was in while acting in a law enforcement capacity. Then we address how he overcame the issues to continue to thrive in his career. Now, we do not hold back on the “cop shop” and gore with gallows humor. I want to stay true to life in these podcasts, and in this one it is a true conversation. So if you are easily offended or queasy, maybe pick another episode that doesn’t involve law enforcement. No judgement. But also hopefully none on the fl...
E1 What is this Podcast All About?
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Short intro to see what will be heading your way in a couple of weeks.Â
TRIGGER WARNING should be assumed with all episodes. This is real life with real problems. But along with that is real advice on how they got through it. Listen long enough and you may find the thing that gets you over that next hurdle. Follow us on Instagram for up to date episode information and message with any inquiries.
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