The Team Ten Eight Podcast

Christian Lane
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Founded in 2021 and inspired by the radio code for “in service,” the Team Ten Eight Podcast is a tribute to the extraordinary individuals who dedicate their lives to serving others. This platform is about more than uniforms or titles—it’s about the people behind them. Through candid conversations, our guests share their unique stories and personal perspectives on life in law enforcement, emergency services, and the military. The Team Ten Eight Podcast takes you behind the scenes and beyond the badge, offering a deeper understanding of the challenges, triumphs, and complexities of these professions. Together, we explore the issues that matter most and celebrate the service and sacrifices made by these remarkable individuals. Join us as we honour their journeys—simply by listening.

  1. Jennifer Hyland: Walking the Tightrope of Duty and Despair

    4D AGO

    Jennifer Hyland: Walking the Tightrope of Duty and Despair

    In this episode, host Christian Lane interviews retired Deputy Chief Constable Jennifer Hyland, who shares her journey through the policing system in Canada. Hyland discusses the challenges of balancing duty with personal well-being, the impact of trauma on first responders, and the importance of empathy and authenticity in leadership. She reflects on her experiences in a male-dominated field, the sacrifices made early in her career, and the need for cultural change within policing. The conversation highlights the significance of mental health, vulnerability, and the evolving landscape of law enforcement, particularly regarding the role of women in leadership positions.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Tightrope Journey 02:43 The Metaphor of the Tightrope 05:23 Processing Trauma in Policing 08:23 The Impact of Isolation in Policing 11:03 Navigating a Male-Dominated Culture 13:35 Sacrificing Compassion for Acceptance 16:23 The Cost of Wearing a Mask 19:24 Empathy as a Strength in Policing 21:55 Integrity and Speaking Up 24:34 The Role of Self-Awareness 27:20 Compassion in the Face of Tragedy 40:08 Understanding Human Moments in Policing 45:14 Transforming Mental Health Conversations in Law Enforcement 51:01 The Importance of Vulnerability and Authenticity 56:43 The Future of Policing: Challenges and Changes  Links Tightrope: Balancing Duty with Courage and Conviction by Jennifer Hyland  Amazon Canada Jennifer Hyland on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jennifer-hylandReferenced Authors & Experts: Dr. Gabor Maté – Trauma and Authenticity Dr. Jody Carrington – Connection and ResilienceSimon Sinek – Leadership and Purpose Thank you for listening! For more Team Ten Eight content, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn!

    1h 21m
  2. Leadership Without Ego: A conversation with Capt. Willow Bloomquist

    NOV 30

    Leadership Without Ego: A conversation with Capt. Willow Bloomquist

    In this episode, host Christian Lane speaks with Captain Willow Bloomquist of the Dashwood Volunteer Fire Department. Willow shares her journey from various jobs to becoming a firefighter, her experiences in wildfire prevention, and the importance of community engagement. The conversation delves into the challenges and responsibilities of volunteer firefighting, including training, liability, and the dynamics of leading a volunteer team. Willow emphasizes the significance of building strong relationships within the community and the fire department, especially during critical incidents like the Wesley Ridge fire. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Willow Bloomquist and Dashwood Fire Department 08:28 Willow's Journey to Firefighting 13:28 Understanding Danger in Firefighting 15:15 Reading Smoke: A Critical Skill 19:50 Incident Command Decision Making 23:24 Liability in Volunteer Fire Departments 29:33 Attracting and Retaining Volunteer Firefighters 43:53 Wesley Ridge Fire Experience 54:31 Community Engagement and Support  To learn more or connect with the Dashwood Volunteer Fire Department visit https://dashwoodvfd.com/ or contact Capt. Bloomquist directly at w.bloomquist@dashwoodvfd.com.  Thank you for listening! For more Team Ten Eight content, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn!

    1h 1m
  3. Leading From The Front: A Conversation with Heather Edward

    NOV 15

    Leading From The Front: A Conversation with Heather Edward

    In this episode, Christian Lane interviews Heather Edward, a seasoned paramedic leader who has transitioned from frontline work to leadership roles and now healthcare philanthropy. Heather discusses her early influences, the challenges of leadership, the importance of mental health, and her current research on paramedic leaders' mental health. She emphasizes the need for open dialogue, self-reflection, and the importance of supportive peer networks in navigating the complexities of leadership in paramedicine. Takeaways Heather's early family influences shaped her understanding of mental health.Transitioning from frontline work to leadership requires courage and support.Women often need encouragement to step into leadership roles.Disruptive leadership can challenge the status quo for positive change.Self-reflection is crucial for effective leadership.Admitting mistakes is a sign of strong leadership.Conflict in leadership can be navigated with open dialogue.Finding the right environment is essential for personal growth.Leaders often feel alone in their responsibilities.Organizational culture significantly impacts leaders' mental health.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Heather Edward 01:42 Heather's Early Life and Influences 03:57 Transitioning from Frontline to Leadership 06:40 The Role of Women in Leadership 09:04 Disrupting the Status Quo in Leadership 11:32 Navigating Leadership Challenges 15:38 The Importance of Self-Reflection 17:49 Admitting Mistakes as a Leader 18:58 Dealing with Conflict in Leadership 24:26 Finding the Right Environment for Growth 25:58 The Value of Being Uncomfortable 28:44 Feeling Alone in Leadership 30:41 Building a Supportive Peer Network 32:29 Balancing Frontline Responsibilities with Leadership 36:54 The Impact of Organizational Culture on Mental Health 39:21 Researching Mental Health in Paramedic Leadership 44:34 Anticipated Themes from the Research 49:32 The Future of Paramedic Leadership and Mental Health 57:15 Conclusion and Next Steps 🔗 Links Heather Edward on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-edward-669a14270/Paramedic Association of Canada: paramedic.caResources Mentioned:The Working Mind (Mental Health Commission of Canada) Bell Let’s Talk – Mental Health Initiatives Wounded Warriors Canada – Trauma-informed programs for first responders and veteransThank you for listening! For more Team Ten Eight content, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn!

    1h 6m
  4. Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges: Senator Baltej Dhillon on Courage, Service & Belonging

    OCT 25

    Breaking Barriers and Building Bridges: Senator Baltej Dhillon on Courage, Service & Belonging

    The Honourable Senator Baltej Singh Dhillon, a trailblazer whose courage reshaped the face of Canadian law enforcement and whose leadership continues to drive inclusion, justice, and empathy across our country. Senator Dhillon made history in 1991 when he became the first turbaned Sikh RCMP officer, following a national controversy that tested Canada’s commitment to diversity and religious freedom. What began as an act of faith became a turning point in our national story — one that continues to inspire generations of Canadians to serve authentically and without compromise. In this conversation, we explore: The personal and public cost of challenging tradition and standing in truthLessons from 25 years of service with the RCMP, including leading investigations into organized crime and homicideThe evolving identity of Canadian policing and public serviceThe role of empathy, community, and representation in rebuilding trustHis transition to the Senate of Canada and what true public service means todaySenator Dhillon’s story is not only about breaking barriers — it’s about building bridges between communities, faiths, and institutions, reminding us that courage and compassion are not opposing forces, but necessary partners in the pursuit of justice. Learn More: Senate of Canada Profile: https://sencanada.ca/en/senators/dhillon-baltej-s/Official Instagram:https: https://www.instagram.com/senatorbaltejsdhillon/Canadian Encyclopedia:  https://thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/baltej-dhillon-caseThank you for listening! For more Team Ten Eight content, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn!

    1h 4m
  5. If Sleep Were a Drug: Dr. Leah Kaylor on Trauma, Recovery, and Resilience

    OCT 4

    If Sleep Were a Drug: Dr. Leah Kaylor on Trauma, Recovery, and Resilience

    Sleep isn’t a luxury — it’s a survival tool. Yet for first responders, veterans, shift workers, and high performers, it’s usually the first thing sacrificed.  On this episode we're joined by Dr. Leah Kaylor — a prescribing psychologist, trauma specialist, and the FBI’s go-to expert on sleep. She blends neuroscience, trauma therapy, and performance psychology to help elite professionals recover, reset, and thrive.  We cover:  Why “I’ll sleep when I’m dead” is one of the most dangerous myths in our cultureHow your brain literally “takes out the trash” every night during sleepThe critical role of REM sleep in trauma processing and emotional regulationSleep avoidance as an unhealthy coping mechanism — and how to break itThe truth about alcohol, shift work, and sleep apnea in first responder populationsCutting-edge treatments like Imagery Rehearsal Therapy for nightmaresPractical strategies you can use tonight to improve your sleep Dr. Kaylor is also the author of If Sleep Were a Drug — a science-backed, no-nonsense guide to unlocking the performance, health, and mental clarity you’re missing when you neglect sleep. 📕 If Sleep Were a Drug (Available now):   Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/If-Sleep-Were-Drug/dp/164687150XDr. Kaylor’s Website: https://www.drleahkahler.com ▶️ Connect with Dr. Leah Kaylor:   Website: https://drleahkaylor.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drleahkaylor/YouTube (Sleep Science & Practical Strategies): https://www.youtube.com/@DrLeahKaylorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drleahkaylor/ 🎧 Listen now and share this episode with someone in your life who needs better rest.   Thank you for listening! For more Team Ten Eight content, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn!

    47 min
  6. From Ramp Ceremonies to Royal Recognition: Master Corporal (Ret’d) James Gendron

    SEP 15

    From Ramp Ceremonies to Royal Recognition: Master Corporal (Ret’d) James Gendron

    Master Corporal (Ret’d) James Gendron’s story is one of service, sacrifice, and the healing power of music. Over a 29-year career in the Canadian Armed Forces, James performed 63 ramp ceremonies in Afghanistan—solemn farewells for fallen soldiers making their final journey home. Those experiences left deep scars, leading him to put down his bagpipes altogether. Years later, the pipes returned to him in the most unexpected way—culminating in a powerful moment at the 2023 Invictus Games in Düsseldorf, where Prince Harry publicly honoured James for transforming what once haunted him into a source of healing. In this conversation, we explore: James’ path from cadets to 29 years of military serviceThe stark contrast between combat operations in Afghanistan and humanitarian missions in Sri LankaThe emotional toll of ramp ceremonies and the burden of remembranceHow music became both a trigger and a lifelineHis Invictus Games journey, the moment with Prince Harry, and life after serviceJames now serves his community as a volunteer firefighter and continues to share his story to help others navigate trauma, healing, and resilience. Thank you for listening! For more Team Ten Eight content, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn!

    1h 17m
  7. “It’s Okay Not to Be Okay”: Lessons from 18 Years in the RCMP – with Cpl. Peter MacDonald

    AUG 16

    “It’s Okay Not to Be Okay”: Lessons from 18 Years in the RCMP – with Cpl. Peter MacDonald

    This episode of goes deep with Corporal Peter MacDonald, a veteran RCMP officer with nearly 18 years of service across the Lower Mainland of British Columbia. From his early days in frontline policing to the intense files that shaped his career, Peter speaks candidly about the weight of trauma, the moments that nearly broke him, and the path back through therapy, honesty, and support. Today, he serves as a Member Services NCO and a leader in the RCMP’s National Reintegration Program, helping colleagues navigate long-term leave, recovery, and the return to work. We talk about: The reality of witnessing death and the long shadow it can cast.How operational stress injuries develop—and what it takes to process them.Why vulnerability and openness aren’t weakness but strength.The culture shift inside policing around mental health.Strategies for self-care, resilience, and rediscovering identity beyond the badge.This is an honest, powerful conversation about what it means to serve, to struggle, and to find your way back. Guest Contact: Peter can be reached via email at peter.macdonald@rcmp-grc.gc.ca or through the Langley RCMP detachment. Thank you for listening! For more Team Ten Eight content, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn!

    1h 2m
  8. From Bullying to Bravery: Andrew Siwy's Story

    JUL 27

    From Bullying to Bravery: Andrew Siwy's Story

    In this episode, host Christian Lane interviews firefighter, veteran, and founder of Victory Medals, Andrew Siwy, who shares his journey from childhood bullying to military service and firefighting. Andrew discusses the impact of his experiences on his mental health, the significance of self-awareness, and the challenges faced during his deployments in Afghanistan. He reflects on the importance of understanding intent in human interactions and the ethical complexities of military duty, emphasizing the need for compassion and humanity in service roles. In this conversation, Andrew shares his journey from military service to becoming a firefighter, detailing the mental health challenges he faced and the importance of support systems in recovery. He recounts a traumatic incident during the Lapu-Lapu Day Festival and discusses the need for recognition of sacrifices made by first responders. Andrew emphasizes the significance of mental health strategies and the role of community support in navigating trauma.   Chapters  00:00Introduction to Andrew Siwy's Journey  02:52Overcoming Childhood Bullying  05:44Self-Awareness and Reflection  08:09The Impact of 9/11 on Military Aspirations  10:58Joining the Canadian Armed Forces  13:24First Deployment to Afghanistan  21:36Cultural Shock in Kandahar  27:09Second Deployment and Special Forces Experience  35:05The Complexity of Military Ethics  40:36Reflections on Duty and Humanity  44:29Understanding the Military Mindset  45:18The Journey Through Mental Health Challenges  46:10Crisis and Recovery: A Personal Story  52:34The Role of Support Systems in Recovery  55:25Navigating Trauma in First Response  01:00:05Responding to Tragedy: The Lapu-Lapu Day Incident  01:11:32Personal Growth and Mental Health Strategies  01:14:17Honoring Service: The Importance of Recognition  01:20:32Advocating for Civilian Recognition of Sacrifice  keywords military, service, resilience, mental health, bullying, Afghanistan, Canadian Armed Forces, firefighting, leadership, special forces, military mindset, mental health, first responders, crisis recovery, support systems, trauma response, personal growth, service recognition, civilian honors, mental health strategies  Thank you for listening! For more Team Ten Eight content, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn!

    1h 40m
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About

Founded in 2021 and inspired by the radio code for “in service,” the Team Ten Eight Podcast is a tribute to the extraordinary individuals who dedicate their lives to serving others. This platform is about more than uniforms or titles—it’s about the people behind them. Through candid conversations, our guests share their unique stories and personal perspectives on life in law enforcement, emergency services, and the military. The Team Ten Eight Podcast takes you behind the scenes and beyond the badge, offering a deeper understanding of the challenges, triumphs, and complexities of these professions. Together, we explore the issues that matter most and celebrate the service and sacrifices made by these remarkable individuals. Join us as we honour their journeys—simply by listening.

Information

  • Creator
    Christian Lane
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2025
  • Episodes
    70
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 The Team Ten Eight Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Team Ten Eight Podcast

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