Half Serious

In this episode, Katherine Boyle shares her unique perspective on law enforcement, the importance of supporting police families, and how to foster healthier relationships between law enforcement and civilians. She discusses her personal journey, challenges faced, and vision for a more supportive police culture. She shares insights on the perceptions of law enforcement and military, the importance...

I know you guys know our host is not the religious type, but that doesn't mean we don't want to explore the topics as they come to us. We welcome those that embrace religion in a healthy way and we believe Peter did just that. His experience in which he believes to be a spiritual one, changed his life for the better in an immeasurable way. No matter you religion or beliefs, his story is...

In this insightful interview, trauma therapist Austin Bridges discusses the nuances of trauma diagnosis, the importance of stability in therapy, and innovative approaches like intensives and retreats for healing. He emphasizes the significance of understanding individual experiences over labels and shares practical strategies for mental health support. Austin shares insights on mental health suppo...

You guys asked for it, so here is another FLUFFER episode. In this episode I answer some of the questions you guys have submitted and elaborate perhaps too much on the topics. We hit on a variety of topics this episode but if you feel like something else needed to be addressed, feel free to contact us and let us know.  In this episdoe I share insight on leaving policing, personal growth, and embra...

Addiction is a complex issue that many face, and often the approaches to treatment can feel too soft or ineffective. If you’re searching for a more direct method to tackle addiction issues, you’re in the right place. In this discussion, we’ll explore tough love strategies that can make a real difference for those struggling with addiction. We’ll also delve into why these methods resonate and how t...

This episode features an in-depth interview with author Chelsea Noel about her book 'Beyond the Path,' which explores the chilling case of the bike path serial killer and her unique experience of befriending him to uncover his story. We discuss the psychological complexities of criminal interviews, the emotional toll on law enforcement and writers, and the fascinating insights into the m...

Tess sits down with Conrad Weaver to unpack what it truly takes to protect the longevity, mental health, and sanity of first responders working one of the most psychologically demanding career paths imaginable. Together, they dive into why leadership must make a real investment in the people behind the badge, sirens, and uniforms—and how departments can do better before burnout, trauma, and isolat...

This week we talk to Mike from Caffeinated Trauma, a police podcaster out of Austin, Texas. We delve into the motivations for podcasting and what is his current driving force. Podcasting while being an active law enforcement officer is rare so it was interesting to hear how he navigates it. We also talk about our common topic, police mental health. Although police agencies and first responders are...

This week we talk to Jaide who started life diagnosed with several different ailments (due to a traumatic event), attempted suicide, became homeless as a teenager, and then was able to crawl out of this purgatory to eventually owning her own thriving business. She had the grit to keep freaking going and redefine who she thought she had to be in order to be who she is today.  She was willing to go...

Ever wonder how police departments differ and how you choose the right one? Want to know why there is such an issue with police mental health and how they deal with mental health in the public? We approach all of these topics with a special 2 guest episode this week.  All of us are passionate about mental health and know there is a struggle between learning how to compartmentalize so you don'...

In this episode your host answer questions from you guys. Fluffer episodes are the mini episodes we do every now and then to address any questions our audience has. If you have a questions for next Fluffer episode, email or message us and we will put it on the list. This week we cover adrenaline, new leadership, finding normalcy, and questions about podcasting in general.  Website now up! - yep an...

This one is a difficult one as we talk to a friend of mine that lost her husband to suicide. He was an active narcotics agent and due to a complex set of events, he chose to end his life. She goes into the tale of how confusing it is when your spouse or loved one makes this decision, and how it reverberates through your life long after they are buried. Not only were there uncharted and unbelievabl...

This week we talk to Paul Nash about how he got addicted to gambling, and how he was able to overcome the decade long addiction. We also go into the topics about why gambling is such a dangerous addiction. Although it may not kill you like drugs or alcohol can, the mental toll and monetary devastation can lead to suicidal ideation or worse.  Not only did Paul readjust his life to take gambling com...

BATTLE FOR SPARTAN SWIM AND DIVE This interview explores the impactful journey of a coach who navigated personal tragedy, career transitions, and the importance of resilience and perspective in sports and life. In this in-depth interview, Coach Matt Gianiodis shares his experiences coaching at Michigan State, the challenges faced during program cuts, and insights into athlete development and leade...

This week we talk to Brad Wendes who has a plethora of experience in the world of parkour. Although his exposure in the the mainstream sense with Ninja Warrior, Britain's Got Talent, and the vast number of productions he has been a part of is intriguing, the most intriguing part of his accomplishments is what he had to trudge through behind closed doors.  He not only survived situations that...

In this conversation, Tess and Earl discuss the evolution of active shooter training, the importance of military experience in crisis management, and the challenges of transitioning to civilian life. Earl shares insights from his military background, emphasizing the need for effective training that includes the fight component in active shooter situations. They also explore the significance of hon...

In this episode, our host introduces the concept of 'Fluffer' episodes—quick, candid Q&A sessions—and your will probably regret listening to it. But thats ok, that is what we do. These will be quick episodes so we can address some of the questions you all have had for us or to delve into previous episodes a little more. Have questions? Email us and we will answer them on our next Flu...

You guys made it to the season finale. This episode your Host gets interviewed by a past guest, Chass. Now, they go off the rails quite a bit due to a tragic event that happened a week prior, but we promise real conversations in this, and that is what you got. Please be weary, the F-bomb is used quite a bit in here but you put cops and emotions in a room together, and cussing is what you get. Actu...

In this engaging conversation, Tucker shares a candid account of his experiences in law enforcement, touching on the challenges and humorous moments that come with the job. Tucker recounts his early days in the academy, the camaraderie formed with fellow recruits, and the unique challenges of navigating police work. The conversation flows into anecdotes about their time in the field, including hum...

This week we talk to a firefighter. I know I know, the firefighter vs cop thing. I love some good banter with a firefighter. We will be the quickest to make fun o each other but will also be the quickest to defend each other as well. We will discuss how the training is different, talk wildfire dangers, the different perspectives of firefighters from police, and how they cope with the trauma they h...

Throughout the conversation, themes of mental health, parenting, and personal growth are examined, highlighting the complexities of relationships and the importance of communication and therapy. Lindy Vogel (aka Sweary Mommy) shares her experiences navigating relationships, the challenges of parenting, and her journey with bipolar disorder. She discusses the creation of her publication, Sweary Mom...

The week we talk to Pro MMA Fighter Julia Ramsden ( Mavericks Training Center ). She shares her journey through the world of combat sports, discussing her experiences in jiu-jitsu and Muay Thai, her role as a coach, and the dynamics of competition. The conversation flows from lighthearted anecdotes to deeper reflections on her training, injuries, and aspirations in the sport. Julia emphasizes the...

This conversation delves into the experiences of a law enforcement officers as he navigates the complexities of his roles, including the impact of trauma, the importance of camaraderie, and the evolution of policing. The discussion highlights the significance of self-acceptance, humor as a coping mechanism, and the necessity of debriefing after critical incidents. Through personal anecdotes and re...

Happy Holidays everyone. Although we thought about taking this week off, we all know Christmas is an important time to remind those that feel alone, that they are not alone. Therefore, this week it felt extra important to release this episode about a non profit that steps up to help veterans. Bearded Warriors was built because there were cracks seen in resources offered and instead of getting upse...

This week Tess and guest explore the complexities of trauma, relationships, and personal struggles. Guest shares her experiences with age-gap relationships, family dynamics, and the impact of substance abuse on her life. They discuss the challenges of mental health, the cycle of violence, and the journey towards recovery. Through humor and candid storytelling, they highlight the importance of unde...