Shows
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode 52: From Cop to Therapist; Navigating a second career post-retirement, with Cathy BustosWelcome to the Guns and Yoga Podcast. My name is Wendy Hummell.
Cathy Bustos is a retired police Lt. who currently works with first responders as a LPC- Associate at Angels on the Horizon Foundation LLC in Texas. She provides counseling services to first responders and veterans. Cathy and her husband, Javier, also a retired Law Enforcement Officer, are known as “That Peer Support Couple”. They teach, train, and support first responders and their families on the importance of peer support and family wellness. They share their stories in hopes to help others navigate the challenges of a first r...2025-02-131h 18
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode 51: The Stoic Responder with Kristofor HealeyKristofor Healey, is a speaker, author, and former DHS HSI Special agent who spent more than 15 years in federal law enforcement. He is also the host of The Stoic Responder podcast where he uses his experiences in law enforcement and endurance racing to teach Stoic lessons on leadership and overcoming adversity.
He had no plans for a career in law enforcement but after 911, Kris put aside his plans and his purpose shifted and he pursued a career in federal LE.
We discuss his career and then transition to discussing his new book, 𝘐𝘯 𝘝𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘳: 𝟹𝟼𝟻 𝘚𝘵𝘰𝘪𝘤 𝘔𝘦𝘥𝘪𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘍𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵 𝘙𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘰𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳𝘴.
Kris was first introduced to the stoic philosophy when he was a freshman in college and discusses how and how it helped him throughout his...2024-08-311h 01
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode 50: Megan Lautz, RD – Realistic Nutrition for First RespondersMegan Lautz, RD – Realistic Nutrition for First Responders
As regular listener's know, we talk a lot about the importance of mental health on his podcast, but there are other aspects of our health that are just as important. Research tells us there is a connection between the types of foods we eat, our mental and emotional health and its impact on things like anxiety and depression. A lack of essential nutrients can be a contributing factor which is where today’s guest comes in.
Today I speak with Megan Lautz, she is a register...2024-07-2654 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode 49: Dr. Renee Thornton - Leading High Performance CulturesWelcome to the Guns and Yoga Podcast
Today my guest is Dr. Renee Thornton. Dr. Thornton is an organizational and crisis intervention psychologist, author, entrepreneur, military veteran, mom, and founder of Pathfinder Resilience.
She is passionate about building high performing cultures within the first responder professions, whether it be with her Navigating Adversity program, a self-paced, one of a kind, wellness program with a whole person approach geared towards public safety professionals or her newest endeavor that focuses on leaders.
Dr. Thornton is the epitome of resilience; she shares her personal adversity while g...2024-05-291h 06
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode 48: Nate Schweitale - Wichita Police Officer and co-author of - Rooster: What a Homeless Man Taught a CopWelcome to the Guns and Yoga Podcast
Today my guest is a former co-worker of mine, Police Officer Nate Schweitale. Nate has worked for the Wichita Police Department for the past 23 years and started the agency’s HOT team, which stands for Homeless Outreach Team.
Nate is also now a consultant to other agencies looking to implement a HOT team and an author of a new book “Rooster: What a Homeless Man Taught a Cop” which he co-wrote with his childhood friend, Mack Severns.
Nate and the HOT team have helped over 1200 homeless get into...2024-04-2457 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode 47: Supporting First Responder Families with the LT’s Daughter, Katherine BoyleWelcome to the Guns and Yoga Podcast. My name is Wendy Hummell.
My guest today is a true inspiration. Her name is Katherine Boyle, and she created Beyond the Uniform and also hosts a podcast with the same name. Her mission is simple – to support police officers and their families. However, I believe her message and content is relevant to all first responder families. Her emphasis on the importance of creating a healthy, stable, and happy home-life is an extremely relevant, yet often overlooked, aspect of first responder wellness and wellbeing.
LINKS:
Beyond The Un...2024-03-2557 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastTactical Tip Tuesday: How will you upgrade in 2024?Tactical Tip Tuesday
How will you upgrade in 2024?
Today is Tactical Tip Tuesday where I share a tip, tool, or dose of inspiration for your week.
LINKS:
Live Your Best Life Using Your Strengths - Gallup Poll
Bring Your Strengths to Life & Live More Fully - VA
Law Enforcement Agency and Officer Resilience Training Program
I hope you enjoy the show, and check us out on Instagram at: @guns_and_yoga_podcast
Wendy
2024-02-0109 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode 46: Surviving Retirement with Police Psychologist Dr. Medina BaumgartSurviving Retirement with Police Psychologist Dr. Medina Baumgart
Today, I have a guest who is a subject matter expert on the topic, Dr. Medina Baumgart, an in-house psychologist at a LE Agency and author of “Surviving Retirement: Finding Purpose and Fulfillment Beyond the Badge”. In her role as an in-house psychologist, she conducts counseling, works with peer support, and builds relationships with sworn and civilian members while embedded in their patrol stations.
But it is her personal experience as the spouse of a retired LEO that inspired her book and course. She openly shares...2024-01-0453 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode 45 : David Kennington - Nashville Police Department Wellness ManagerWelcome to the Guns and Yoga Podcast. My name is Wendy Hummell.
Before we get into today’s episode, I’d like to share a few things with all of you:
I will be presenting a couple of free webinars on Justice Clearinghouse. For those of you that don't know, Justice Clearinghouse is a peer-to-peer educational platform geared towards CJ professionals.
On December 8th, I will be presenting “Building a Wellness Program from the Ground Up”. It is free to watch live, and if you are Justice Clearinghouse member you can access the replay anytime. Please see the link...2023-11-1853 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastMicrocast: What’s Missing from the Public Safety Conversation – My Two Cents.What’s missing from the Public Safety Conversation – My Two Cents:
Welcome to the guns and yoga podcast. My name is Wendy Hummell. Today’s microcast is inspired by my belief that organizational wellness should be at the forefront of the public safety.
Lately I have been paying attention to what many of our local politicians in Wichita KS are saying on the topic of public safety, in particular the conversation surrounding staffing shortages. It is a priority topic this campaign season and I have heard higher pay, recruiting, and retention mentioned quite a bit.
Co...2023-10-2407 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode 44: A Conversation (and a practice) with Jennifer Boileau - A Trauma Informed Yoga and Mindfulness InstructorWelcome to the Guns and Yoga Podcast. Today I am sharing a conversation I had a while back with Jennifer Boileau. It’s a bit longer than our usual podcast because in the second half Jen leads us through a practice, so keep in mind that at around the 1 hour and 10 minute mark we transition into the practice.
Jen is a trauma informed yoga and mindfulness instructor who teaches to the first responder population. She is married to a now retired police officer so she knows first-hand the stresses the police profession can have on the first respo...2023-10-051h 47
The Guns & Yoga PodcastTactical Tip Tuesday: The Intersection of Wellness, Peer Support, and LeadershipTactical Tip Tuesday
The Intersection of Wellness, Peer Support, and Leadership
Today is Tactical Tip Tuesday where I share a tip, tool, or dose of inspiration for your week. This week I want to talk about the interconnectedness of wellness, peer support and leadership. Here are a few quotes from the show that will help sum up what this solo-cast is about:
"Life can only be learned backwards, but must be lived forwards." (Søren Kierkegaard)
"You can't pour from an empty cup."
"How great leaders inspire actio...2023-09-1219 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #43: Catching up with Kim Colegrove – Books that Save Lives: The Mindfulness for Warriors Handbook
Today’s episode is a special one for a few reasons. I speak with a dear friend of mine, Kim Colegrove. Kim and I met back in 2017 and I am a better person today for knowing her. Kim is also the first podcast guest to come back on the show a second time, so if you missed the first episode with Kim back in 2021, I encourage you to check it out.
In our conversation, we catch up on what she’s been up to since our first episode a few years ago. We discuss her online...2023-09-081h 08The Guns & Yoga PodcastTactical Tip Tuesday: Share Your Unique Gift with the WorldTactical Tip Tuesday:
Share Your Unique Gift with the World!
Today is Tactical Tip Tuesday where I share a tip, tool, or dose of inspiration for your week. This week I want to talk about sharing your unique gift with the world.
Later this week, my podcast with Kim Colegrove will be released. She is the first guest to return to the show for a second time. Not only is Kim a good friend, but she is a talented author and meditation teacher. She is re-releasing her book Mindfulness for Warriors with some really c...2023-09-0505 minThe Guns & Yoga PodcastSecond Mountain Masterclass Series (Part 3) - Myth of ”Strength in Suppression”, and shout out to Federal Pretrial West Texas RegionIn this micro-cast we discuss the unwritten credo of "strength in suppression", which is often prevalent in first responder professions, and how it is not sustainable long term. We also address the need for "depth work" throughout our careers, but especially as we transition to retirement which can look like; therapy, peer support, family support, spirituality, and self-care. This retiree masterclass is a call to action for you, your family, and for all first responders collectively.
Guns and Yoga Podcast - Instagram
2023-08-2916 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #42: Financial Freedom for First Responders with Courtney from Heroes Financial CoachingToday I speak with Courtney from Heroes Financial Coaching. As a police and veteran wife, she is familiar with the stress of these professions and helps first responder and veteran families reduce stress due to finances.
Courtney and her husband had years of credit card debt, car payments, and student loans, but were able to overcome their debt and purchase their dream home.
Her goal is to help first responder families become the hero in their financial journey. She does this through one on one coaching, goal setting, and developing a plan that can lead to...2023-08-1659 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastWe’re Back!We’re back!
After taking some time off this year we are back with new episodes and great guests. In this very brief episode, I share my gratitude and appreciation for the listeners and the reason for the break.
2023-08-1404 min
Responder ResilienceS3 E17 Yoga To The Rescue: Restful Tools For Stressful Times with Guest Wendy HummelLooking to enhance your well-being and job performance? Meet Wendy S. Hummell, a retired Detective, podcaster and Sheriff’s Office Wellness Coordinator who has been teaching yoga, mindfulness, and resilience to First Responders for the past six years. Wendy’s area of expertise is officer wellness. She has been teaching yoga, mindfulness, and resilience to First Responders for the past six years. She now works as the Wellness Coordinator for a Sheriff’s Office and has helped to implement a holistic wellness program at the agency. She is passionate about sharing the tools of peer support, mindfulness, yoga, a...2023-04-2744 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastYogaFit for Warriors with Shaye Molendyke
Welcome to the Guns & Yoga Podcast. Today's guest: Shaye Molendyke - Shaye Molendyke is a retired Lt. Colonel with the US Airforce. She is a trained mental health counselor, yoga teacher, and yoga therapist. Shaye has experience in teaching yoga on US military bases across the nation and has seen first hand how the tools of yoga support healing. Shaye coordinates and teaches in the Warriors Program at Yogafit where she teaches workshops such as YogaFit for Warriors which emphasizes how yoga can support those with PTSD.
LINKS:
International Women's Day - Femme Flo...2023-03-141h 04
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode 40: Yoga Rescue with Vance Row
Welcome to the Guns and Yoga Podcast, my name is Wendy Hummell and today I talk to Vance Row. Vance and I first met last year at the National FOP Wellness Conference in Nashville, TN. He is a fellow Yogi, so as you can imagine, we became fast friends. Vance is a former police officer and he now works as a police and fire dispatcher. He found the tools of yoga to be very beneficial in his own healing process, which he talks about. So much so, that it inspired him to become a yoga inst...2023-02-161h 02
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode 39: A conversation with Kyle Stubbs, First Responder Coach and founder of the Nine8 Program
Welcome to the Guns and Yoga Podcast. My name is Wendy Hummell. Today I share a conversation I had with Kyle Stubbs. Kyle is a police officer in British Columbia, Canada, has experience as a paramedic, a husband and father. Kyle and I discuss the work he’s doing outside his full time job as a first responder coach. Kyle shares how his own experience in a mens group coaching program inspired him to create the Nine8 program, a 10 week group coaching program which came from the ten code for backup, and is based on the premise of conn...2023-01-271h 18The Guns & Yoga PodcastSecond Mountain Masterclass Series (Part 2) - Retiree Roundtable, the Circle, and the Power of Peer SupportAs we continue this week with our Retiree Masterclass Series and explore the pillar of leadership, I wanted to share something I recently learned about that ties into what I wanted to discuss today. As I shared last time, the first concept of the conscious leadership paradigm is Radical Responsibility; this entails taking charge of our physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and relational well -being. As we begin to better manage our nervous system and increase self-awareness, we are better equipped to take radical responsibility for the circumstances of our lives and become more open, curious, and growth minded. One ave...2023-01-1910 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #38: Karen Solomon - FIRST H.E.L.P. Honoring the Service of First Responders Who Died By SuicideToday you will hear a conversation I had with Karen Solomon, a pioneer on the first responder wellness front. Karen is the founder of BLUE HELP, a non profit organization that started tracking LE suicides in 2016. The organization also aims to reduce mental health stigma through education, advocate for benefits for those suffering from post-traumatic stress, acknowledge the service and sacrifice of LE officers we lost to suicide, support families after suicide and bring awareness to suicide and mental health issues.
Karen tells us how BLUE HELP was created because of a gap in the support for po...2023-01-1054 minThe Guns & Yoga PodcastSecond Mountain Masterclass Series - Finding Meaning Health and Vitality in RetirementThe Second Mountain - A Masterclass Series
Welcome to the Guns and Yoga Podcast, my name is Wendy Hummell. In today's Microcast I’m kicking off the first in a series on retirement, and even if you have a ways to go before retiring, I encourage you to listen because I think you’ll find this helpful.
The inspiration came from numerous interactions over the past year or so with those that struggle in retirement for various reasons; at first I thought it was just me, but as I started to openly discuss my own strugg...2023-01-0521 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #37: Mindfulness and Purpose with Blue Line Golf founder Matt MintierWelcome to the Guns and Yoga Podcast.Today I share a conversation I had with Matt Mintier, a veteran Deputy working in Oregon and the founder of the non profit organization - Blue Line Golf. Matt and I discuss his path to law enforcement and how growing up as the child of a cop influenced him. Matt opens up about events in his childhood, in his personal life, and on the job that lead him to seek help. We cover some difficult topics such as his fathers suicide and other traumatic events so I wanted to prepare anyone who may...2022-12-071h 18The Guns & Yoga PodcastWisdom Wednesday: Facing my Demons and Retirement - Microcast 24Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!
In this Microcast I finally share my not-so-happy retirement story, along with some of the things that I've learned in retrospect. And, how that experience, and its aftermath, has only reinforced my desire to help cops (and other first responders) have the tools and resources available to them to help navigate the ups and downs they will face throughout their career, and to retire healthfully - both physically & mentally. Because, if done correctly, the end of a law enforcement career can be the beginning of a new life journey, one I like to call "T...2022-11-2324 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #36: A Conversation with Scott Medlin - Changing the Narrative for Law Enforcement Well BeingWelcome to Episode 36 of the Guns and Yoga Podcast. Today I share a conversation I had with Scott Medlin, a US Marine veteran and law enforcement veteran. Scott discusses his difficult decision to leave full time law enforcement in 2020 to save his family. His overidentification with the job led him to work part time jobs when he didn’t even need the cash. It was at that time, Scott began his journey to inspire and encourage police officers to focus on their personal wellbeing in order to better survive the career and better serve the public. Scott discusses his strugg...2022-11-1755 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #35: A Conversation with Amanda Dozanti – First Responder Wellness CoachWelcome to Episode #35 of the Guns and Yoga Podcast my name is Wendy Hummell. In today’s episode you will hear my conversation with Amanda Dozanti, a former Deputy Sheriff turned first responder wellness coach and specialist. Amanda actively works towards giving first responders a way to manage chronic stress and mitigate the effects of working in a trauma-rich environment.
Amanda shares her personal story of burnout and PTS which ultimately lead her to leave the job the same year she was named Officer of the Year. She is a certified yoga instructor and wellness coach helping indi...2022-10-0652 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #34: Dr. Colby Mills discusses the National Wellness SurveyToday’s show will be of special interest for those agency decision makers and leaders, politicians, or anyone interested in research to support wellness programming. Dr. Colby Mills is a Clinical and Police Psychologist who works at Forge VFR in Virginia. He has extensive experience working with veterans and first responders. Colby reached out and told me how he and his colleagues created a national survey in conjunction with the US Marshalls in which approximately nearly 9,000 respondents from all first responder agencies, local state and federal, participated. This survey asks questions about suicidal ideations, PTSD, and depression. They also looked...2022-09-201h 09The Guns & Yoga PodcastWise Warrior Wednesday - Microcast 23
This week: How We Manage Our Energy
2022-08-1110 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #33: Relentless Courage with Michael SugrueMichael Sugrue is an Air Force Veteran and medically retired Sergeant from the Walnut Creek PD in California. He recently released a book, Relentless Courage – Winning the Battle Against Frontline Trauma, with whom he co-authored with Dr. Shauna Springer. At the time of our conversation, His book has been on the #1 bestseller list since its release five weeks in a row. Michael discusses how he had no desire to write a book, but a phone call from his co-author, led to the release of a story that absolutely needed to be told.
I have read countless books on the...2022-08-021h 01
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #32: No Price for Peace – Christopher DavisChristopher Davis is a retired Assistant Chief from the Fayetteville NC PD and served as an Officer in the Army. He served in Operation Desert Storm and Desert Shield. He is an adjunct professor and a trained yoga instructor who through his business, YOGA911, teaches the tools of yoga and mindfulness to first responders
I had the opportunity to meet Chris earlier this year at the National FOP Wellness Conference and we instantly clicked. He is the prime example of why the the tools of yoga, meditation, and mindfulness are a perfect fit for the manliest of cop...2022-07-2033 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #31: Bridging the Gap – Sheila Schmid teaches first responders and others the tools of yoga.Welcome to the Guns and Yoga Podcast, my name is Wendy Hummell. It has been a little while since I released an episode, so to make up for lost time, today I am releasing two. Full disclosure, my schedule these past few months has been eventful, and as much as I love the podcast, it had to take a back burner temporarily. This podcast is a passion of mine. It is important to me to provide value through conversations with interesting people in the field of first responder wellness, and I take pride in the quality of what I shar...2022-07-1958 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #30: Managing Anger by Helping Keep Good People Good with Jack HarrisWelcome to the Guns and Yoga Podcast My name is Wendy Hummell. Today you will hear a conversation I had with Jack Harris, retired LEO, licensed counselor, trained mediator, and professional trainer. Jack retired from the Tuscon Police Dept. in 1994 at the rank of Captain. I first met Jack at the COPS conference in Oklahoma City last fall. I attended one of his sessions on retirement, but was unable to sit in on his class on Anger. Several of my co-workers attended and said it was a great class, so I reached out to Jack and invited him on the sh...2022-05-311h 10The Guns & Yoga PodcastTactical Tip Tuesday - Microcast 22Tactical Tip Tuesday is a weekly microcast where we will share a tip, tool, or dose of inspiration for the week ahead.
This week: Box Breathing, Airplanes & Tornados
wendyhummell.com
2022-05-1011 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #29: A Conversation with Sherri Martin, National FOP Director of WellnessWelcome to Episode #29 of the Guns and Yoga Podcast. Today I am speaking with Sherri Martin, National FOP Wellness Coordinator.
I was fortunate enough to meet Sherri in 2020 after our agency was matched with her, and two other Subject Matter Experts, from the Nashville Police Dept. as we launched our peer support and wellness program after applying to the CRITAC program through the COPS office. CRITAC stands for: Collaborative Reform Initiative Technical Assistance Center. Sherri’s background as a law enforcement veteran and clinician were extremely valuable as we moved forward with our program. She shared insight, guidance...2022-04-161h 00The Guns & Yoga PodcastTactical Tip Tuesday - Microcast 21Tactical Tip Tuesday is a weekly microcast where we will share a tip, tool, or dose of inspiration for the week ahead.
This week: My Mentor
wendyhummell.com
2022-03-1610 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #28: The Next Chapter - with retired States Attorney and Yogi, Patricia Froehlich.Welcome to Episode #28 of the Guns and Yoga Podcast. Today I am speaking with retired States Attorney Trish Froehlich.
I met Trish and her husband this summer at a yoga training in Wichita. We instantly connected and I knew I wanted to have her on the show. First Responder wellness must include our colleagues in the Prosecutors Office; and not just the prosecutors but court clerks, evidence clerks, and those who work with the victims and witnesses. Trish talks about her career as a prosecutor, her exposure to secondary trauma, and what retirement has been like.
Trish...2022-03-031h 23The Guns & Yoga PodcastTactical Tip Tuesday - Microcast 20Tactical Tip Tuesday is a weekly microcast where we will share a tip, tool, or dose of inspiration for the week ahead.
This week: Self Sabotage
wendyhummell.com
2022-02-1507 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #27: Matt Domyancic - The Tactical ChaplainIn today’s episode I speak with Matt Domyancic. Matt volunteers as a chaplain and peer support for police agencies in Los Angeles. He also is a volunteer for nonprofits that support police officers in crisis, as well as those that are injured and disabled. Matt believes all first responders can have careers that provide deeper meaning and add richness to their spiritual lives if approached in the right manner.
Matt is a medically retired police officer that worked patrol, Peer Support, SWAT, and as a full-time police academy instructor. Matt was the Wellness Coordinator for his ag...2022-02-011h 07The Guns & Yoga PodcastTactical Tip Tuesday - Microcast 19Tactical Tip Tuesday is a weekly microcast where we will share a tip, tool, or dose of inspiration for the week ahead.
This week: Be Curious, Not Judgmental
On this week's podcast, Wendy talks about a Walt Whitman quote from an episode of the TV show Ted Lasso - "Be curious, not judgmental". We could all probably use a little more of this mindset in our daily lives, and not just in how we view others, but also with how we view ourselves. You can check out her Blog and the vi...2022-01-1809 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #26: Morgan Farms Part 2 - with Jason & Shannon KlepacHappy New Year and welcome to Episode 26 of the Guns and Yoga podcast, my name is Wendy Hummell.
Today you will hear a conversation I had with Jason Klepac and his wife, Shannon; part 2 of our on-location series at Morgan Farms.
Jason started the non-profit after retiring from law enforcement and serving in the military. I really enjoyed my time with Jason and Shannon. Talking to them was like hanging with a few old friends and shooting the shit, which is really what we did. We sat on their wrap around front porch overlooking their br...2022-01-051h 02The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #25: Morgan Farms Mash-Up
Today we are doing something new- at the end of 2021, we got the opportunity to visit Morgan Farms, a newly formed non-profit located in Wellsville, KS. My husband and I drove there on an unseasonably warm day in early December. Jason Klepac, the founder, and owner, was hosting an open house and invited the Guns and Yoga Podcast for a tour and opportunity to speak with some of the first responders in attendance. As our two-and-a-half-hour drive came to an end, and we got closer to Morgan Farms, I started to feel more at ease. Less cars, more space, les...2021-12-2953 minThe Guns & Yoga PodcastTactical Tip Tuesday - Microcast 18Tactical Tip Tuesday is a weekly microcast where we will share a tip, tool, or dose of inspiration for the week ahead.
This week: Own Your Experience
On this week's podcast, Wendy talks about why she retired, the forces at play behind that decision, and the path to clarity, personal growth, and new opportunities.
wendyhummell.com
2021-12-1512 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #24: Blue for Brian – The Arterburn’s Story of tragedy, healing, and resilienceToday we will hear a conversation I had with Claudale Arterburn, a retired Wichita police officer. Claudale is married to Brian Arterburn, also a veteran police officer who is now medically retired due to injuries he sustained in February 2017 while attempting to capture a felony suspect, an incident that nearly took his life and left him with a TBI and other serious medical issues.
Claudale shares the details of that day, walks us through what life has been like for both her and Brian, and the complications of traumatic brain injuries. At a time when Brian and C...2021-12-081h 03
The Guns & Yoga PodcastTactical Tip Tuesday - Microcast 17Tactical Tip Tuesday is a weekly microcast where we will share a tip, tool, or dose of inspiration for the week ahead.
This week: We Are All Connected
Also, I want to thank all of the Guns & Yoga Podcast listeners, as well as each of my awesome guests, for helping us reach 5000 downloads. We could not have done it without every single one of you! Thank You!!
And finally, as I mention at the end of this podcast, I am launching a program in January 2022 called Radical Resilience. If you...2021-11-1709 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #23: From Police Officer to Police Psychologist – A Conversation with Dr. Stephanie ConnWelcome to Episode 23 of the Guns and Yoga Podcast, my name is Wendy Hummell.
In today’s episode I speak with Dr. Stephanie Conn. She is a former dispatcher and police officer turned police psychologist. In talking with Dr. Conn, it is obvious this work is in her blood. She grew up as the daughter of a police officer and ended up married to one. Dr. Conn explains that her career path was the result of seeing a need and filling it. After the death of someone at her agency, she realized the missing piece at her agency w...2021-11-031h 09
The Guns & Yoga PodcastTactical Tip Tuesday - Microcast 16 - THE TACTICAL HABITS SERIESTactical Tip Tuesday is a weekly microcast where we will share a tip, tool, or dose of inspiration for the week ahead.
THE TACTICAL HABITS SERIES
This week: Tactical Habit 4 - Addressing Burnout & Chronic Inflammation
As I mention in this podcast, I am launching a program in January 2022 called Radical Resilience. If you want to build resilience and adaptability into your physiology by optimizing the rhythm of your daily habits, want to tap into your unique purpose and potential, and learn these habits in a dynamic group setting then this pr...2021-10-2025 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #22: Rodger Ruge - Navagating AdversityIn today’s episode I spoke with retired police veteran, Rodger Ruge. Rodger is the author of Navigating Adversity Tactical Self Care for First Responders, podcast host, professional trainer, and resilience coach.
We discuss Rodger’s career, how police officers tend to over identify with their careers his passion to guide other first responders to be healthier, he discusses an incident that led to his PTSD diagnosis that he refers to as his triggering incident and we wrap up with a brief meditation.
Rodger discusses his healing journey and his realization that his engagement in high r...2021-10-131h 09The Guns & Yoga PodcastTactical Tip Tuesday - Microcast 15 - THE TACTICAL HABITS SERIESTactical Tip Tuesday is a weekly microcast where we will share a tip, tool, or dose of inspiration for the week ahead.
THE TACTICAL HABITS SERIES
This week: Tactical Habit 3 - Start Your Day Right
2021-09-2908 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #21: Amy Morgan – Academy HourWelcome to episode 21 of the Guns and Yoga podcast, my name is Wendy Hummell.
In today’s episode I speak with Amy Morgan, founder and CEO of Academy Hour, an online platform offering mental health training for first responders.
I had a lot of fun talking to Amy – fun may seem like an odd word choice, but when I get to meet and talk to people who are as passionate and enthusiastic about first responder wellness as Amy is, I’m in my happy place – it’s encouraging to know there are good people out there dedicate...2021-09-211h 11The Guns & Yoga PodcastTactical Tip Tuesday - Microcast 14 - THE TACTICAL HABITS SERIESTactical Tip Tuesday is a weekly microcast where we will share a tip, tool, or dose of inspiration for the week ahead.
THE TACTICAL HABITS SERIES
This week: Tactical Habit 2 - Sleep: Don't Steal Energy from Tomorrow
2021-09-0812 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #20: Jonathan Hickory – Break Every ChainWelcome to episode 20 of the Guns and Yoga podcast, my name is Wendy Hummell. In today’s episode I talk with Jonathan Hickory. He’s been a police officer for 18 years in Virginia and is the award winning author of the book Break Every Chain that is now a powerful award winning movie.
I reached out to Jonathan after seeing a facebook post about his book. As I often do when I stumble upon interesting people, I did a little stalking and reached out to him on Linkedin. Jonathan and I exchanged a few emails before recording this epi...2021-09-0159 minThe Guns & Yoga PodcastTactical Tip Tuesday - Microcast 13 - THE TACTICAL HABITS SERIESTactical Tip Tuesday is a weekly microcast where we will share a tip, tool, or dose of inspiration for the week ahead.
THE TACTICAL HABITS SERIES
This week: Tactical Habit 1 - Earlier, Lighter Dinner
2021-08-2510 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #19: Dr. Jennifer Prohaska – KC area Police Psyhcologist with Insight Public SafetyDr. Jennifer Prohaska, PhD, has a postdoctoral fellowship in Neurorehabilitation Psychology and received a Bachelor of Arts, Master’s Degree and a PhD in clinical psychology from the University of Kansas.
Dr. Prohaska has spent nearly two decades focused on the needs of those on the front lines. Her passion is to help those who help others by providing the critical tools needed to navigate the stressors they experience on a daily basis.
She has conducted extensive research on: Prevention of PTSD in First Responders; Effective Treatment Modalities for First Responders; Building Resiliency in First Responders; Modi...2021-08-181h 10The Guns & Yoga PodcastTactical Tip Tuesday #12This week I share an episode of the Evolve to Harmony Podcast hosted By Carole Westerman. In this episode the tables are turned and I am the guest and the one answering questions instead of asking them. I thought this would be a great way to not only share Carole's excellent new podcast, but to also give my listeners an opportunity to learn a little bit more about me.
LINKS:
evolvetoharmony.com
Evolve to Harmony Podcast
and, as always, I can be reached directly at: wendy@bluelineyoga.com
2021-08-1049 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #18: FAB FEMALE ALERT: Shawna McClureWelcome to episode 18 of the Guns and Yoga podcast, my name is Wendy Hummell. In today’s episode I talk with Shawna McClure. Shawna recently retired from a 25 year career in law enforcement, her most recent assignment was with the Omaha Police Department.
In my conversation with Shawna, it dawned on me that she is the first female cop I’ve had on the show. Law Enforcement is still predominantly male and only 12-14% of cops are women which isn’t much different than 25 years ago when Shawna and I first started out. We discuss challenges women in this ca...2021-08-031h 02The Guns & Yoga PodcastTactical Tip Tuesday - Microcast 11Tactical Tip Tuesday is a weekly microcast where we will share a tip, tool, or dose of inspiration for the week ahead.
This week: A Growth Mindset
2021-07-2804 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #17: Sonny Provetto & The Vermont Center for Responder WellnessSonny Provetto is a former police officer and a trauma-focused therapist. He is the Clinical Director at The Vermont Center for Responder Wellness & The Institute for Trauma Recovery and Resilience. It is a comprehensive treatment center for first responders that uses a multi-disciplinary approach to healing traumatic stress. They treat trauma at its core by using EMDR, biofeedback, and trauma-sensitive yoga as tools to help responders heal from their trauma.
Sonny and I discuss his personal experience with EMDR, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, and how it helped him to heal from PTS.
LINKS:
Ho...2021-07-201h 28
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #16: Within The Trenches with Ricardo Martinez - THE PODCASTER SERIESThis week I talk with Within the Trenches podcast host, Ricardo Martinez. He worked as a dispatcher for 13 years and is doing amazing things within the dispatch world by bringing awareness to issues surrounding burnout, wellness, and self-care through the power of storytelling. He talks about how burying his own calls and not reaching out was personally detrimental to him, and used this as motivation for what started as a college project blog and eventually turned in to what he has created today with his Within the Trenches podcast. His podcast is based on his own experiences as a 911 dispa...2021-07-061h 25
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #15: Steph Therapy 911 with Police Therapist Stephanie Samuels - THE PODCASTER SERIESToday’s guest is Stephanie Samuels, the founder and director of COPLINE, a 24/7 hotline manned by vetted and retired LEOs, she is a psychotherapist that specializes in working with police officers and their families, a trainer, an author, and she hosts her own show, Steph Therapy 911.
LINKS:
COPLINE @ www.copline.org
Facebook - StephTherapy911 with Stephanie Samuels
2021-06-291h 19
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #14: The Squad Room with Garrett TeSlaa - THE PODCASTER SERIESThis week, we continue with our Podcaster Series. I speak with Garrett TeSlaa, veteran law enforcement sergeant and host of the successful podcast, The Squad Room. Garrett left a successful career in the music and film industry in 2005 to pursue a life in public service. Garrett is now an active duty 16-year law enforcement veteran and sergeant for a sheriff's office in Southern California. Garrett has held assignments in patrol, gang investigations, community relations, internal affairs, and media relations among many others; and, has been involved in numerous critical incidents that have received international media attention. Garrett holds a Ma...2021-06-151h 02
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #13: Helping First Responder Families with Dr. Rachelle Zemlok -THE PODCASTER SERIESThis week, we continue our first responder podcast series. During the month of June, we will be releasing podcast episodes in which I talk with fellow first responder podcasters.
In today’s episode, I speak with Dr. Rachelle Zemlok. She is a licensed child and family psychologist in California. She specializes in supporting and educating first responder families in private practice. She is married to a firefighter and has three siblings in law enforcement so she knows first hand the impact a career as a first responder can have on families. In her practice she helps provide first re...2021-06-0856 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #12: Behind the Shield with James Geering -THE PODCASTER SERIES
Today’s guest is James Geering. If you don’t yet know James, you are in for a treat. He is a Rockstar and trailblazer in the arena of first responder well-being. He is a retired firefighter/paramedic, author, and successful podcaster.
James served for 14 years as a firefighter/paramedic on both the east and west coasts. He was inspired to start the Behind the Shield Podcast in 2016 after experiencing personal loss of those he served along side with. He is also an author of the book “One More Light: Life, Death and Humanity Through the Eyes of a Firefighte...2021-06-011h 07
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #11: A Conversation with Brady Pilster from CORDICOToday I have the pleasure of speaking with Brady Pilster. Brady is the Vice President for Strategic Partnerships for CORDICO. For those of you not familiar with Cordico, Cordico is the leader in officer wellness technology. CordicoShield Wellness Apps are confidential, available 24/7, easy to use, proactive wellness solutions customized for law enforcement agencies of every type and size. CordicoShield provides law enforcement with powerful handheld wellness resources, anonymous self-assessments, access to peer support, geo-mapping of vetted therapists, one-touch calling, on-demand tools targeting critical incidents, depression, suicide risk, and much more.
LINKS:
CORDICO (Website)
C...2021-05-2542 minThe Guns & Yoga PodcastTactical Tip Tuesday - Microcast 10Tactical Tip Tuesday is a weekly microcast where we will share a tip, tool, or dose of inspiration for the week ahead.
This week: Find Your Tribe
Links for 30X30 Initiative:
https://30x30initiative.org/about-30x30/
https://www.police1.com/women-officers/articles/police-agencies-sign-national-pledge-to-recruit-30-women-by-2030-NAeOiIHClnyIEeqH/
2021-05-1807 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #10: Under the Headset with Pam OpokaPam Opoka is the Public Safety Training Coordinator and Peer Support Program Planner at Mid-America Regional Council (MARC). She has over 25 years of experience in Public Safety and has a master’s degree in Public Administration and is an ENP or Emergency Number Professional. Pam is active in University Research projects for peer support efficacy. She is currently the co-chair of National Emergency Number Association’s Wellness Committee Peer Support Work Group and is a member of NENA’s Education Advisory Board. Pam is also on the State of MO Service Board Training Committee and the State of KS Coordinating Co...2021-05-1139 minThe Guns & Yoga PodcastTactical Tip Tuesday - Microcast 9Tactical Tip Tuesday is a weekly microcast where we will share a tip, tool, or dose of inspiration for the week ahead.
This week: How yoga and meditation helped sharpen my aim
Article Link: https://www.police1.com/police-training/articles/how-yoga-and-meditation-helped-sharpen-my-aim-U1igYyNBTQ1RSINh/
2021-05-0406 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode 9: War Horses For Veterans with Patrick Benson“HORSES ARE THE BRIDGE, VETERANS ARE THEIR OWN BEST THERAPY.” – PATRICK BENSON
Co-Founder/Director of War Horses For Veterans
Patrick Benson is an Army Veteran who served in the Infantry from 1998 to 2004. His numerous military operations enable his understanding of the physical and emotional strain on our combat veterans. As a professional horseman, he manages a training and breeding program for performance horses.
Links:
War Horses For Veterans
VFW - War Horses for Veterans: 'Your Anxiety Goes Away'
2021-04-2857 minThe Guns & Yoga PodcastTactical Tip Tuesday - Microcast 8Tactical Tip Tuesday is a weekly microcast where we will share a tip, tool, or dose of inspiration for the week ahead.
This week: What Lies Beneath
2021-04-2007 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #8: Bulletproof Spirit with Dan WillisBulletproof Spirit: This week, I speak with retired Captain Dan Willis who served with the La Mesa Police Department near San Diego for 30 years. During his career, he worked violent crimes cases such as sexual assault - child molestation – and homicide. He also served as the SWAT Commander, and Wellness Unit Coordinator. He's a graduate of the FBI National Academy and is author of the emotional survival and wellness guidebook "Bulletproof Spirit: The First Responders Essential Resource for Protecting and Healing Mind and Heart." (which is required reading at the FBI National Academy). He's a national instructor on Trauma, PTSD...2021-04-1359 minThe Guns & Yoga PodcastTactical Tip Tuesday - Microcast 7Tactical Tip Tuesday is a weekly microcast where we will share a tip, tool, or dose of inspiration for the week ahead.
This week: Establishing a Morning Routine
2021-04-0606 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #7: You Can’t Stop the Waves but You Can Learn to Surf: The SWEL with Rob Sanderson
This week I speak with Rob Sanderson, a retired Police Sergeant from the Lenexa Kansas Police Department. He started his career in 2003 with the Harrison County SO in Gulfport, MS.
Earlier last year, Rob founded the non profit organization, SWEL, which stands for Surf Waves Enjoy Life. Rob founded the organization with a group of like-minded veterans and first responders in order to fill a void in those communities. That void is options for positive outlets to aid in the processing of cumulative and acute traumas our nation’s heroes overcome in their career.
Rob kno...2021-03-2932 minThe Guns & Yoga PodcastTactical Tip Tuesday - Microcast 6Tactical Tip Tuesday is a weekly microcast where we will share a tip, tool, or dose of inspiration for the week ahead.
This week: The Man in the Arena
2021-03-2302 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #6: The Stoic Cop with Bill Mauro; Applying Ancient Wisdom to Modern Day Policing.Bill Mauro is an 8 year law enforcement veteran who has worked in corrections, patrol, and investigations. Bill started studying Stoicism in 2018 while working night shift. He noticed a parallel between this philosophy and policing and how applying the stoic virtues of wisdom, justice, courage, and temperance, improved his character and his attitude towards stress. Bill was so impacted by the benefits of the Stoic Philosophy that he wrote a book that was recently released, The Stoic Cop.
Bills own struggles, which he candidly shares in the book, inspired him to help other officers so that they may apply...2021-03-221h 01The Guns & Yoga PodcastTactical Tip Tuesday - Microcast 5Tactical Tip Tuesday is a weekly microcast where we will share a tip, tool, or dose of inspiration for the week ahead.
This week: The Carrot, The Egg, and The Coffee Bean
2021-03-1602 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #5: Healing Out Loud with Sarah Purcell – A story of overcoming grief and addiction with radical resilience.On September 28, 2009, Sarah Purcell’s life changed forever. She received news that every police wife dreads. After only serving 18 months with the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office, her husband, Brian Etheridge, was shot and killed in an ambush style attack while responding to a false report of a larceny.
This episode could be difficult for some to listen to. Sarah shares the events of that day, the aftermath of Brian’s death for her and their young daughter, and her journey through grief and addiction. Sarah truly is an inspiration and the epitome of resilience.
Sarah is pas...2021-03-151h 28The Guns & Yoga PodcastTactical Tip Tuesday - Microcast 4Tactical Tip Tuesday is a weekly microcast where we will share a tip, tool, or dose of inspiration for the week ahead.
This week: Breathing
2021-03-0904 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #4: Yoga For First Responders with Olivia MeadOlivia Mead is the founder and Executive Director for the non-profit organization, Yoga For First Responders. Olivia is is a life-long yoga practitioner and has been teaching yoga since 2003. Olivia saw the need to design a program to specifically address the needs of First Responders by applying the ancient wisdom of yoga. She developed the Yoga for First Responders protocol which is culturally informed and job specific. The program was developed to help first responders to build resilience, enhance performance, and process stress.
YFFR YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBU0mRTMl-GkNjo8AAS92iw
DISCO...2021-03-081h 39The Guns & Yoga PodcastTactical Tip Tuesday - Microcast 3Tactical Tip Tuesday is a weekly microcast where we will share a tip, tool, or dose of inspiration for the week ahead.
This week: Wired for Connection
TED TALK LINK: https://www.ted.com/talks/kelly_mcgonigal_how_to_make_stress_your_friend
2021-03-0204 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #3: Building Resilience: Surviving Secondary Trauma with Darren Ivey Darren Ivey is a Major with the Kansas City Police Department. He is a United States Air Force Veteran and has been with his current agency since 1992. He served as the Department’s CIT Commander from 2012 – 2018 and through a partnership with Truman Medical Center’s Behavioral Health, Ivey led a team that developed a training program called “Building Resilience: Surviving Secondary Trauma”. This training helps address the occupational risks of secondary trauma and acute stress. Thousands of law enforcement, mental health professionals, and other first responders from across the country have attended the course since it's inception in 2015. Major Ivey has a Bachelors...2021-03-011h 15The Guns & Yoga PodcastTactical Tip Tuesday - Microcast 2Tactical Tip Tuesday is a weekly microcast where we will share a tip, tool, or dose of inspiration for the week ahead.
2021-02-2303 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #2: The Impact of Fatigue on Performance, Safety, and Well Being. A conversation with sleep researcher, Dr. Stephen James.Dr. Stephen James is a sleep researcher with the University of Washington, College of Nursing. He has a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice and studies the impact of sleep deprivation on police performance. Dr. James spent 23 years in the British Military as an Irish Ranger, and knows first hand the impact lack of sleep can have. Dr. James and his wife have created a sleep hygiene training based of their research which improves work performance and overall well being. His research findings have been published internationally and help to inform policy and decisions made by agency leaders.
During this episode, Dr...2021-02-221h 04The Guns & Yoga PodcastTactical Tip Tuesday - Microcast 1Tactical Tip Tuesday is a weekly microcast where we will share a tip, tool, or dose of inspiration for the week ahead.
This week check out the following links -
Police One: How Yoga and Meditation Helped Sharpen My Aim
Pause First Academy: https://pausefirst.com/
Pause First Academy on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjUmBuMRzr8&t=7s
Insight Timer: https://insighttimer.com/meditation-app
2021-02-1603 min
The Guns & Yoga PodcastEpisode #1: From Pain to Purpose – Mindfulness for First Responders with Kim ColegroveA discussion with Kim Colegrove the author of Mindfulness for Warriors, and the founder of Pause First.
Amazon Book Link: Mindfulness for Warriors
Pause First Academy: https://pausefirst.com
2021-02-151h 04
The Guns & Yoga PodcastWelcome to the Guns & Yoga PodcastAn introduction to the Guns & Yoga Podcast.
2021-02-1003 min