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

"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...

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 gue...

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, top...

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...

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 navigat...

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 Policing Im...

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 offic...

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...

"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...

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...

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'...

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 Co...

(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 dis...

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 th...

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 the...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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 han...

(**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...

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...

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....

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...