Team Ten Eight Christian Lane
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Inspired by the radio code for "in service", Team Ten Eight provides a platform for the incredible people who choose to step up and serve and provides a different perspective of the law enforcement, emergency services and military communities that counters the narratives that often dominate the headlines. Go behind the scenes and beyond the badge. Delve deeper into the issues that impact these professions. Honour those who serve and sacrifice by simply listening.
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Christopher Litrell: The Breaking Point
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
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Calvin Chrustie: Converging On Canada
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
Shawn Pinto - Mortgage BrokerMortgage consulting services for those who serve. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Thank you for listening!
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Jas Dhillon: From the O-line to the Frontline
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
Shawn Pinto - Mortgage BrokerMortgage consulting services for those who serve. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Thank you for listening!
For more Team Ten Eight content, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn! -
Necole Belanger - Pride Amid Prejudice
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
Shawn Pinto - Mortgage BrokerMortgage consulting services for those who serve. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Thank you for listening!
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Brendan Hynes: Breech, Breech, Breech
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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Shawn Pinto - Mortgage BrokerMortgage consulting services for those who serve. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Thank you for listening!
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Special Episode: Supporting Shawn Coady's Battle Against Cancer
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.
Shawn Pinto - Mortgage BrokerMortgage consulting services for those who serve. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Thank you for listening!
For more Team Ten Eight content, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn!