Summary

Marissa Rose, a paramedic with a background in advanced care paramedicine, shares her journey of navigating the challenges and traumas of her profession. She discusses how her childhood experiences and the need for help shaped her desire to become a paramedic. Marissa highlights the demanding nature of the job, the accumulation of trauma over time, and the impact it has on mental health. She talks about the feelings of betrayal, anger, and depression that she experienced, as well as the physical and emotional toll of working during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the difficulties, Marissa continues to do the job because of her passion for helping others. Marissa Rose shares her journey of struggling with mental health and finding healing through equine therapy. She opens up about her darkest moments and the decision she made to end her life. However, her encounter with horses, particularly a horse named Caesar, brought her a sense of relief and connection that she had never experienced before. Equine therapy became a transformative experience for her, leading her to advocate for its benefits and pursue research in the field. Marissa emphasizes the importance of understanding the physiological changes that occur in the brain during therapy and the need for more comprehensive studies in this area. Marissa Rose shares her journey of resilience and healing after experiencing trauma as a paramedic. She emphasizes the importance of self-care and finding balance in life, as well as the need for better support and mental health resources for frontline workers. Marissa discusses the impact of trauma on the brain and the potential for healing through holistic methods such as equine therapy, yoga, and art therapy. She also highlights the significance of debriefing and the reconsolidation of memories in managing PTSD. Marissa's mission is to empower and support her peers in the first responder community.

Chapters

00:00Introduction and Background

07:55Challenges and Trauma in the Job

26:34The Physical and Emotional Toll of the Job

38:02The Transformative Power of Equine Therapy

44:41The Need for Research on Equine Therapy

55:32Overcoming Challenges and Finding Hope

01:02:30The Significance of Saving Lives

01:10:24Understanding the Impact of Trauma

01:18:48Training to Do vs. Being

Marissa's The Inner Response website is available here: https://innerresponse.com.au/

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Summary

Dr. Scott MacDonald, a physician at the Providence Crosstown Clinic in Vancouver, discusses the drug crisis in British Columbia and the need for safe supply harm reduction strategies. He emphasizes the limitations of current treatments and the importance of diversifying options for people with opioid use disorder. Dr. MacDonald advocates for the use of prescription heroin and explores the potential of prescription fentanyl. He highlights the need to move beyond the abstinence-only approach and prioritize patient-centered care. Dr. MacDonald also addresses the role of law enforcement and the importance of resources for individuals seeking help with substance use disorder.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

01:42 Criticism of Drug Decriminalization

03:07 Insufficient Treatment Options

05:00 Lack of Access to Treatment

06:06 Attracting More Patients to Treatment

07:26 Prescription Heroin as an Option

08:12 Challenges of Prescribing Heroin

09:36 Exploring Prescription Fentanyl

11:07 Success Stories and Case Studies

20:11 Factors Driving Fentanyl Use

23:39 Moving Beyond Abstinence-Only Approach

25:24 Following the Evidence

27:39 The Need for Diversified Treatment Options

29:24 The Role of Law Enforcement

33:07 Addressing Drug Diversion

35:53 Reevaluating Prohibition

41:17 Personal Experience with the Crisis

43:22 Resources for Substance Use Disorder

44:00 Connecting with Dr. Scott MacDonald

45:11 Conclusion

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Summary

In this episode, Christopher Littrell, a former police officer and mental health advocate, shares his journey of resilience and healing. He discusses the impact of traumatic experiences, the importance of support systems, and the challenges of balancing personal and professional life. Litrell also opens up about his struggles with alcohol abuse and the role it played in his mental health. He emphasizes the significance of mutual support in marriage and the need for first responders to seek help and overcome the stigma surrounding mental health. Overall, Littrell's story highlights the importance of mental health support for first responders and the power of resilience in overcoming adversity. In this conversation, Chris Littrell shares his personal journey of dealing with post-traumatic stress and the importance of seeking help. He emphasizes the need for a culturally competent counselor and employer support. Chris also discusses the impact of an intensive treatment program and the value of self-care practices, including talking to trusted individuals and being self-aware. He concludes by providing his top three must-do's for someone struggling and shares how to connect with him.

Takeaways

• Traumatic experiences can have a lasting impact on first responders, leading to mental health struggles such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
• Having a strong support system, both within and outside of the law enforcement community, is crucial for coping with the challenges of the job.
• Balancing personal and professional life is essential for maintaining mental well-being. Setting boundaries, seeking help, and prioritizing self-care are important strategies.
• Alcohol abuse can be a coping mechanism for first responders, but it can also exacerbate mental health issues. Seeking treatment and finding healthier ways to cope are essential for recovery. Seeking help is crucial for dealing with post-traumatic stress.
• Culturally competent counselors are essential for effective treatment.
• Employer support is vital in creating a supportive environment for employees.
• Intensive treatment programs can have a significant impact on recovery.
• Self-care practices, such as talking to trusted individuals and being self-aware, are essential for overall well-being.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

01:26 Transition to Law Enforcement

06:21 Impact of Traumatic Experiences

09:21 Importance of Mutual Support in Marriage

12:21 Balancing Personal and Professional Life

13:05 Seeking Help and Overcoming Stigma

14:45 Cumulative Trauma and PTSD

20:16 Supporting Spouses and Sharing Responsibilities

23:24 Recognizing the Signs of Mental Health Struggles

25:13 Reaching Out for Help

26:09 Importance of Mental Health Support for First Responders

26:19 The Importance of Seeking Help

32:01 Employer Support

38:07 Chief Guerrero's Response

40:47 Intensive Treatment Program

45:31 The Value of Intensive Treatment

47:40 Self-Care Practices

53:52 Top Three Must-Do's for Someone Struggling

57:41 Connecting with Chris Littrell

Click here to visit Gravity Training and Consulting and to listen to the Gravity podcast.

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Calvin Chrustie, a former senior operations officer with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, discusses the importance of navigating the threats, risks, and challenges of the contemporary world. He highlights the convergence of threats and the weaponization of activities by foreign threat actors, which he refers to as hybrid warfare.

The conversation covers various topics related to the challenges and issues faced by Canada, particularly in relation to fentanyl and toxic drug deaths. It highlights the ineffectiveness of current approaches, the weaponization of fentanyl, societal indifference towards drug deaths, lack of interconnectivity and collaboration, concerns for the future of Canada, the role of politicians in addressing the issues, concerns of business leaders, advice for aspiring politicians, and the need for self-reflection and courage. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding and addressing these issues for the well-being and security of Canada.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction
01:15 Background and Interest in National Security
11:36 Convergence of Threats and Hybrid Warfare
22:43 Factors Contributing to Canada's Blind Eye
28:04 Comparison of CSIS Mandate with Other Intelligence Agencies
29:24 Lack of Legislative Changes to Address Contemporary Threats
29:52 The Ineffectiveness of Current Approaches
31:16 The Weaponization of Fentanyl
32:21 Toxic Drug Deaths and Societal Indifference
36:26 Lack of Interconnectivity and Collaboration
37:26 Concerns for the Future of Canada
40:21 The Role of Politicians in Addressing the Issues
45:08 Concerns of Business Leaders
50:04 Advice for Aspiring Politicians
55:24 The Need for Self-Reflection and Courage
56:10 Conclusion and Contact Information

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Jas Dhillon, a former professional football player and current police officer, shares his journey from the football field to law enforcement. He discusses the excitement of draft day and the challenges he faced transitioning from a defensive player to an offensive lineman. Jas highlights the importance of teamwork, resilience, and determination in both football and policing. He emphasizes the need for effective communication and building trust with the public, especially in diverse communities. Jas also reflects on his personal experiences with the police and the cultural differences that can impact interactions with law enforcement.

In this conversation, Jas Dhillon, a police officer, discusses his experiences with law enforcement and the community. He shares how his South Asian background and proud military history influenced his decision to become a police officer. Jas emphasizes the importance of positive interactions, trust, and respect in building relationships with the community. He also highlights the significance of effective communication, humility, and listening in achieving the platinum standard as a police officer. Jas shares stories of his worst and best calls, showcasing the emotional impact of the job. Overall, he emphasizes the importance of teamwork, culture, and mentorship in law enforcement.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Football Career

06:14 Transition from Football to Policing

12:54 Lessons from Football Applied to Policing

20:15 Building Trust with the Public

26:36 Personal Experience with Police and Cultural Differences

30:26 Interactions with Law Enforcement

31:17 Proud Military History

32:08 Positive Interactions with the Community

33:08 Policing in the Neighborhood

34:37 Building Trust and Respect

35:17 Achieving the Platinum Standard

36:13 Continued Learning and Growth

37:35 Effective Communication and Respect

38:21 Humility and Listening

39:05 Being Heard and Treated with Decency

40:24 Dealing with Newcomers and Long-Time Residents

41:31 Recognized as a Police Officer

42:04 Connecting with the Community

43:15 Teamwork and Leadership

44:17 Importance of Communication and Culture

48:10 Field Training and Mentorship

49:08 Worst and Best Calls

55:26 Family History and Sikh Culture

57:04 Connecting with Jas Dhillon

58:41 Appreciation for Service

To follow or connect with Jas check out the links below:

Instagram: @jdhillon54
Email: jas.dhillon@surreypolice.ca

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In this conversation, Necole Belanger shares her experiences as an openly gay woman in the Canadian Armed Forces. Necole talks about the importance of language skills in the military and the respect given to French-speaking troops. She reflects on the French-English question in the military and the challenges faced by Francophone members. Necole also discusses the impact of the Purge, a period of discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals in the military. She shares her personal journey of self-acceptance and the trauma she experienced. Necole highlights the need for change and allyship in the military to address gender disparities and discrimination. In this conversation, Necole Belanger shares her experiences in the military and the challenges she faced as a woman and a member of the LGBTQ+ community. She highlights the importance of mentors and supportive figures throughout her career. Necole also discusses the difficulties she encountered in speaking out about her experiences and finding support. She shares her motivation for writing her book 'Pride Amid Prejudice' and the cathartic process it provided. Necole emphasizes the need for change and inclusivity in the Canadian Armed Forces and offers advice to her younger self.

Takeaways

• The Purge was a period of discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals in the military, and its effects continue to impact those who experienced it.
• Self-acceptance and seeking help are crucial for individuals who have faced trauma and discrimination.
• Gender disparities and discrimination still exist in the military, and there is a need for change and allyship to create a more inclusive and equitable environment. Mentors and supportive figures play a crucial role in one's career development and success.
• Speaking out about personal experiences can be challenging but can also lead to finding support and making a positive impact.
• Senior appointments can present unique challenges, including biases and lack of support.
• Standing up for oneself and refusing to accept unfair treatment is important for personal growth and change.
• Writing can be a cathartic process and a way to share one's story and inspire others.
• It is important to create a culture of inclusivity and support in the military and other organizations.
• Reflecting on one's experiences and offering advice to one's younger self can provide valuable insights and lessons learned.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction

03:20
Joining the Military and Language Skills

07:03
The French-English Question in the Military

09:05
The Dual Language System in the Military

12:36
Early Desire to Join the Military

16:12
Coming Out and Family Rejection

23:20
The Purge and Discrimination

25:54
Trauma and Seeking Help

34:03
Challenges Faced as a Woman in the Military

39:37
Gender Disparity in the Military

45:12
Reconciliation and Allies

46:18
Mentors and Supportive Figures

48:11
Speaking Out and Fin

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Summary

Brendan Hynes, a military veteran and advocate for mental health and brain injury research, shares his journey of resilience and service.

He discusses the challenges he faced during his military career, including failures and injuries. Brendan emphasizes the importance of seeking help and the support of loved ones in overcoming mental health issues. He also highlights the need for better understanding and support for brain injuries in the military and first responder communities. Brendan's advocacy work aims to raise awareness and drive change in these areas.

This conversation explores the work of the Concussion Legacy Foundation and Project Enlist in addressing sports concussions and brain donation. It also delves into the importance of embracing technology and brain research, as well as the overlap between sports and military/first responder brain injuries.

The conversation highlights the institutional challenges and lack of action in addressing these issues and emphasizes the need for more resources and support. It concludes with advice for those going through similar experiences and the importance of buddy checking and opening up discussions.

Takeaways

Seeking help and support is crucial in overcoming mental health challenges.

Brain injuries, including concussive and sub concussive injuries, are often overlooked and require more research and support.

Advocacy and raising awareness are essential for driving change in the military and first responder communities.

Resilience and the support of loved ones can help individuals overcome challenges and continue to make a positive impact.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

11:37 Defining Moment in Military Service

20:15 Overcoming Challenges and Seeking Help

25:46 Job as an Explosives Technician

29:02 Concussive and Sub concussive Traumatic Brain Injuries

34:33 Rock Bottom Moment and Seeking Help

41:43 Advocacy and Taking Action

49:02 Concussion Legacy Foundation and Project Enlist

49:59 Embracing Technology and Brain Research

50:57 Overlap with Sports and Military/First Responder Brain Injuries

51:53 Institutional Challenges and Lack of Action

53:16 The Need for More Resources and Support

54:06 How to Get Involved and Make a Difference

57:42 The Importance of Buddy Checking and Opening Up Discussions

59:01 Advice for Those Going Through Similar Experiences

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In this episode, we revisit an interview with a remarkable individual, Shawn Coady, a retired Vancouver Police Department Sergeant, Canadian Armed Forces veteran, and the founder and president of the Police and Peace Officer Memorial Ribbon Society. Shawn's life has been one of service, dedicated to his community, law enforcement colleagues, and his country.

After an illustrious career, Shawn and his wife settled into a well-deserved retirement in the tranquil community of Armstrong, British Columbia. Unfortunately, life had a different plan, as cancer has entered the scene, challenging Shawn and his family in their fight for his health.

A Hero's Journey: From Service to Survival

Shawn's story is one of resilience, strength, and dedication. As a Canadian Armed Forces veteran and decorated member of the Vancouver Police Department, Shawn shares his experiences as a domestic violence investigations specialist, shedding light on the challenges he faced and the impact on his life. He bravely discusses his battle with post-traumatic stress disorder, offering listeners a raw and honest perspective on the struggles that often accompany a life of service.

Creating Symbolism: The Birth of a Memorial Ribbon

During the interview, Shawn talks about what inspired him to establish the Police and Peace Officer Memorial Ribbon Society. He reveals the driving force behind creating the official national symbol of mourning for law enforcement officers who made the ultimate sacrifice. His dedication to honoring those who serve, even in the face of adversity, is truly inspirational.

Joining Forces: A Call to Action

As a testament to the strength of our podcast community, we are re-releasing Shawn's interview to rally support for him during this challenging time. Shawn was one of the first to join our show when we launched, and now, it's our turn to stand with him.

How You Can Help

In the spirit of teamwork, we invite you to support Shawn and his family by contributing to the Help Shawn Coady Beat Cancer Go Fund Me Page mentioned in the show notes. Every donation, big or small, brings us one step closer to helping Shawn face cancer head-on and allowing him to enjoy the peace and good health he deserves in retirement.

Closing Thoughts: Giving Cancer the Salute It Deserves

As we listen to Shawn's powerful story, let's unite as a team and give cancer the salute it deserves. Together, we can make a difference in Shawn's journey towards recovery. Join us in this special episode dedicated to the resilience of a true hero, and let's show Shawn that he is not alone in this fight.

🔗 Help Shawn Coady Beat Cancer Go Fund Me Page

Together, as a team, let's support Shawn and his family on their journey to overcoming cancer.

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