Shows
Chapter BlueLaw Enforcement & EMS: Bridging the First Responder Gap with StaceeTyra Valeriano opens a new chapter for the podcast by welcoming her first non-law enforcement, but first responder guest, paramedic Stacee. Though they once worked alongside each other without forming a connection, they've since developed a friendship that bridges the gap between their first responder roles.Stacey reveals the subtle psychological shifts that happen to EMS professionals after just a few years on the job. "I catastrophize things," she admits, describing how constantly witnessing worst-case scenarios creates a hyperawareness of mortality that most people never experience. This conversation exposes the hidden mental burden carried by those who...2025-04-2452 min
The 10 Code MindsetWellness That Works: What First Responders Need to Hear – Featuring Tyra ValerianoIn this episode of The 10 Code Mindset, I sit down with Tyra Valeriano—a former police officer turned wellness advocate and host of the Chapter Blue podcast. Tyra opens up about her journey from law enforcement to the world of wellness and personal growth. We discuss what wellness really means for first responders, personal growth, and what to do if you feel stuck. Click HERE to view Shield Of Duty Wellness Follow Tyra on Instagram --------------------------------------------------- Get your copy of my new book, 101 Stress-Busting Tips For First Resp...2025-04-1829 minChapter BlueTom Smith: 30 Years with NYPD to True Crime PodcastingTom Smith's 30-year career with the NYPD reads like a roadmap through the evolution of modern American policing. From his early years patrolling the streets during New York's high-crime era through his extensive work in plainclothes units, narcotics, and gang divisions, Tom offers listeners extraordinary insights into the realities of law enforcement.Following 9/11, Smith's career took a dramatic turn when he joined the FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force, where he would spend the next 17 years. This transition led him across several countries, including a three-month deployment, putting him at the forefront of international counter-terrorism operations. Throughout our...2025-04-1452 minChapter BlueRobie Poynter: Breaking the Mental Health Stigma with PsilocybinEver wondered what happens when traditional mental health approaches fail our first responders? In this groundbreaking episode, I speak with Rob Poynter, a retired deputy sheriff, who took an unconventional path to healing the wounds left by his law enforcement career.Rob's story begins with his upbringing as the son of a homicide detective who was an active father but struggled with alcoholism. He decided to follow in his dad's footsteps and after nearly 15 years of service, a motorcycle accident forced his medical retirement, leaving him to confront how his career had affected his relationships with his...2025-04-0554 minChapter BlueVincent Scotto: What 20 Years at NYPD Taught Me About Officer Wellness That No One Is Talking AboutWhat happens when the badge comes off? In this powerful conversation, former NYPD officer Vincent Scotto takes us behind the blue wall of silence to reveal the deeply human struggles of life in law enforcement. After serving 20 years with the NYPD and being retired for 13 years, Scotto brings rare perspective on how police work fundamentally transforms those who wear the uniform."People who join law enforcement go in wanting to change the world and they get out with the world changing them," cutting to the heart of why officer wellness matters. He shares his personal journey through...2025-03-101h 00Chapter BlueFrom Addiction to Advocacy: Alan and Amy's StoryWhat happens when a law enforcement officer confronts the demons of addiction and infidelity, and emerges with a mission to transform mental health support within the force? Listen to the compelling story of Alan Hendrickson, who, alongside his wife Amy, turned personal adversity into a pillar of hope for law enforcement officers struggling with mental health challenges and addiction. Alan and Amy open up about their personal journey, highlighting the pivotal moments that sparked their dedication to mental wellness for officers and their spouses.Amy's support through Alan's recovery offers a realistic perspective on love, strength, and...2025-02-2244 minChapter BlueWillie Bermudez: Financial Literacy and Balancing Life in Law EnforcementLaw enforcement officers face unique challenges that impact their financial and mental well-being. Willie Bermudez, a seasoned officer, shares his journey from personal debt to advocating financial literacy for first responders, emphasizing the importance of overall wellness in policing. • Willie's early life and entry into law enforcement • The struggles of financial literacy among officers • Transitioning from debt to financial stability • The importance of work-life balance in law enforcement • Mental health support in the police community • Preparing for retirement and planning for the future • The role of identity and self-worth outside of policing • Oppor...2025-02-1650 minChapter BlueNathan Clark on Navigating Police Culture and Adapting to Civilian LifeImagine transitioning from a high pressure law enforcement career to civilian life and carrying with you the emotional toll and mental challenges that come with wearing the badge. In this episode of Chapter Blue, seasoned officer Nathan Clark shares his journey through 23 years of policing in Arizona, offering a rare glimpse into the diverse agencies he served, including the ASU Police Department and a reservation police agency. Nathan's stories discuss the unique challenges faced by officers and the adaptability required for each role amidst varying policies within each agency.Listen to Nathan's personal battles with mental health...2025-02-0552 minChapter BlueDavid Smith: From SWAT to Wellness Advocate in Law EnforcementWhat happens when a dedicated SWAT member decides to shift gears and focus on personal wellness and family? Join me for a interesting conversation with David Smith, a seasoned police officer from Virginia, who takes us through his personal transformation from high-stakes law enforcement to prioritizing self-development and holistic wellness. With 13 years of service under his belt, including seven years on the SWAT team, David shares how programs like the Modern Day Knight Project and Apogee inspired a profound change in his career path and life philosophy. David's story resonates with many in law enforcement facing burnout a...2025-01-2543 minChapter BlueCharles Heasley: From Crisis to Catalyst for ChangeCharles Heasley, a former Texas law enforcement officer, stands as a testament to resilience and transformation in the face of adversity. Grappling with toxic leadership and mental health challenges during his time on the force, Charles' journey is both harrowing and inspiring. We talk about his unexpected exit from law enforcement, and how internal job stressors led him to a critical point, contemplating suicide. Yet, with unwavering support from his family, faith, and friends, Charles found the courage to pursue a new path, now dedicated to improving leadership and fostering mental health awareness across various sectors.Our...2025-01-1551 minChapter BlueRetired Officer Doug White: Embracing Vulnerability and Mental Health AwarenessDoug White shares his profound journey from law enforcement to retirement, discussing the struggles of identity and mental health that follow a career behind the badge. By confronting his past, he talks about the importance of vulnerability, honesty, and seeking help, ultimately encouraging others to embrace their healing journeys.• Doug's introduction as a veteran officer with a rich career • The challenges faced during the transition to retirement • The exploration of identity post-uniform • Confronting psychological struggles deeply rooted in service • The role of honesty and vulnerability in the healing process • Insights from Doug's book, "Hiding in...2025-01-0745 min