Blue Grit Radio: the Police Performance Podcast: Mindset, Wellness, Leadership

Eric Tung

Welcome to Blue Grit Radio: the podcast for police officers, first responders, and service-minded leaders who want to elevate their performance in career and life.  Hosted by Eric Tung, an active police leader, trainer, and mentor, this show explores topics, lessons, and resources, for listeners with to achieve professional excellence and personal resilience. Each episode features raw conversations, actionable insights, and interviews with leaders in law enforcement, wellness experts, veterans, and high performers who share their lessons on overcoming adversity, leading with purpose, and creating positive change in their first responder and organizational culture. Whether you’re a rookie, veteran officer, aspiring leader, or just passionate about growth and service, Blue Grit Radio will help you strengthen your mindset, improve your health, and elevate your impact on the job and in life. Topics include: - Police leadership and team building - Officer mental health and wellness - Navigating toxic police culture - Resilience, mindset, and Stoicism - Career development and promotion - Fitness, family, and fulfillment beyond the badge Host Eric Tung is an 18-year police officer currently serving as a Patrol Operations Commander and wellness coordinator in Washington State.  He is an author, host, speaker, and industry voice focused on building critical mindset, wellness, recruiting, hiring, retention, police leadership, organizational health and community engagement.IG: @bluegritwellness / @bluegritradio Police Hiring and Testing and Promotional Guides! bluegritwellness.com/SHOP Free newsletter at bluegritwellness.com  Bluegritwellness@gmail.com The Blue Grit Radio Podcast  Subscribe, follow and share through YouTube, Spotify, Apple, Amazon and more!

  1. 3d ago

    347: Identity & Challenges in Police & Law Enforcement w/ Dr. Jaimie Lusk

    From its roots, compassion means "to suffer with."  Careers and lifestyles in the first and frontline responder professions are inundated with exposure to stress and hurt - from the people we help in the public, to the people we work alongside daily.  If left unchecked, the impacts can overwhelm us, and my guest in this episode helps not only explain the multi-layered "why," but many systems and strategies we can explore to help navigate the challenges and promote our positive resolve. In this episode, Dr. Jamie Lusk shares insights on resilience, identity transition, moral injury, and the importance of compassion and presence in law enforcement and first responder careers.  She shares her personal story and experience from his military service to unique athletic pursuits and excellence, to redefining and finding her current work and passion helping veterans and first responders. Key topics Identity shift after military service and career changeResilience and growth through adversityMoral injury and strategies for mitigationThe role of compassion and self-compassion in policingThe importance of presence and mindfulness in stress managementArchetypes and mental models for understanding self and othersThe concept of awe and moral beauty as sources of resiliencePractical tools: Motivational interviewing and acceptance and commitment therapy— Dr. Jaimie Lusk, PsyD, ABPP, BCC is a board-certified psychologist and resilience coach with over 15 years as a clinical psychologist in the Veterans Health Administration. Her expertise is informed by original research in both the U.S. and Canada, covering traumatic brain injury (TBI), posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), suicidality, spirituality, and moral injury—critical topics for first responders and law enforcement professionals. Dr. Lusk is the founder of the Oregon Surf Club, using community and adventure to advance trauma integration. She conducts nationwide trainings on moral distress and resilience, known for translating evidence-based insights into practical, values-driven action for those facing operational stress and complex transitions. Her approach is direct and adaptive, emphasizing evidence-based interventions, authentic relationship-building and experiential methods. Dr. Lusk invites law enforcement and high-stakes professionals to engage deeply with the realities of moral injury, trauma, and leadership—supporting them in developing practical resilience, self-connection, and meaning in their work. Check out some of her work, including a free course on coping with moral distress here: www.drjaimielusk.com  Questions, topic ideas and feedback? Send a line! To stay connected with the latest and exclusive content: Subscribe to the FREE newsletter at on bluegritwellness.com  ! Don’t forget to follow and subscribe to Blue Grit Radio on Apple, Spotify, YouTube and more!  Sharing the show and episodes to your friends, peers, circles and social platforms is one of the greatest compliments I can receive- which truly helps the show grow. Please help support a healthier first responder community by giving us a 5 star rating (Spotify and Apple) and a review (on Apple) to help others find the show. Need help with entry-level, promotional testing, career & mindset coaching? Stop spinning your wheels and prep the right mindset and awareness of all the critical hiring steps with my comprehensive hiring guide: bluegritwellness.com/shop  Email at bluegritwellness@gmail.com ------------------------------------- Want to safeguard your health and the health of your team? United Diagnostic Services brings hospital-grade diagnostic technology directly to first responder agencies, making early detection of heart disease and cancer simpler than ever. For more information, visit udshealth.com ------------------------------------- *the opinions expressed in all episodes of this podcast and related materials do not reflect on any departments agencies.  music credit: Drive by ASham...

  2. Sep 8

    346: Private Sector to Police Leader, Financial Health w/ Chief Tim Meyer

    In this episode, Chief Tim Meyer shares his unique journey from private industry to the police profession, emphasizing innovative approaches to public safety, wellness, and financial planning. Discover how a mindset shift and creative strategies can transform policing and personal growth. Key Topics: Career transition from private industry to law enforcementInnovative approaches to public safety, such as using coloring books for Alzheimer's patientsThe importance of wellness and peer support in policingFinancial planning and investment metaphors for life and careerCommunity engagement and adaptive policing models— Tim Meyer is a captain with the King County Sheriff’s Office, serving as the Police Chief for the contract city of Sammamish. Before entering public safety, he spent ten years in traffic & logistics management in the private sector.  He holds a degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from Western Washington University. Ever since buying his first stock in elementary school, he has maintained a lifelong interest in personal finance. He can be reached at Tim_Meyer@Outlook.com or via LinkedIn. Questions, topic ideas and feedback? Send a line! To stay connected with the latest and exclusive content: Subscribe to the FREE newsletter at on bluegritwellness.com  ! Don’t forget to follow and subscribe to Blue Grit Radio on Apple, Spotify, YouTube and more!  Sharing the show and episodes to your friends, peers, circles and social platforms is one of the greatest compliments I can receive- which truly helps the show grow. Please help support a healthier first responder community by giving us a 5 star rating (Spotify and Apple) and a review (on Apple) to help others find the show. Need help with entry-level, promotional testing, career & mindset coaching? Stop spinning your wheels and prep the right mindset and awareness of all the critical hiring steps with my comprehensive hiring guide: bluegritwellness.com/shop  Email at bluegritwellness@gmail.com ------------------------------------- Want to safeguard your health and the health of your team? United Diagnostic Services brings hospital-grade diagnostic technology directly to first responder agencies, making early detection of heart disease and cancer simpler than ever. For more information, visit udshealth.com ------------------------------------- *the opinions expressed in all episodes of this podcast and related materials do not reflect on any departments agencies.  music credit: Drive by ASham...

  3. Sep 3

    345: GOOD GRIT: The Check In - Purpose, Team, and Self

    We may be good at checking in on our people, our buddies, those around us. But how often do we hit pause and check in on what we are doing? The work we do, the way in which we do it? Our personal Mission?  In this quick episode, I explore this discussion, starting with quick reflection on the show itself, then adding in a layer of self-check.  It goes beyond a temperature gauge, and into forecasting to see if we are living in accordance with our ultimate path and goals. I want to know how  YOU check in and create intention around this.  As always thanks for sharing the show and coming along the journey. Questions, topic ideas and feedback? Send a line! To stay connected with the latest and exclusive content: Subscribe to the FREE newsletter at on bluegritwellness.com  ! Don’t forget to follow and subscribe to Blue Grit Radio on Apple, Spotify, YouTube and more!  Sharing the show and episodes to your friends, peers, circles and social platforms is one of the greatest compliments I can receive- which truly helps the show grow. Please help support a healthier first responder community by giving us a 5 star rating (Spotify and Apple) and a review (on Apple) to help others find the show. Need help with entry-level, promotional testing, career & mindset coaching? Stop spinning your wheels and prep the right mindset and awareness of all the critical hiring steps with my comprehensive hiring guide: bluegritwellness.com/shop  Email at bluegritwellness@gmail.com ------------------------------------- Want to safeguard your health and the health of your team? United Diagnostic Services brings hospital-grade diagnostic technology directly to first responder agencies, making early detection of heart disease and cancer simpler than ever. For more information, visit udshealth.com ------------------------------------- *the opinions expressed in all episodes of this podcast and related materials do not reflect on any departments agencies.  music credit: Drive by ASham...

  4. Aug 31

    344: Police Profession, Greater Purpose, Stoicism and Wellness on The Chief Exchange

    Hi, I'm Eric.  I didn't always want to be a police officer, in fact, if you asked 10 or 18 year old Eric, he would have been likely puzzled, thinking you were joking.  I find that new people are finding my podcast, writing, and newsletter continually.  An introduction can thus, be helpful.  This episode features an interview that I absolutely loved taking part in, as it goes far beyond my background, and deep into perspectives on policing and leadership needed today. After interviews, I feel a mixture of sentiments. I appreciate the depth of conversation that generally occurs, I feel gratitude to share story and experience in the hopes it can help others.  I sometimes pause to reflect on how my story has changed, continued, as it's been over 4 years of being more "public" with my experiences and career.   Out of the shows I've been on, Alec's interview on The Chief Exchange is one of my favorites.  Perhaps it was how many things we each shared that resonated, from finding purpose, building facets of your identity, recovering from stumbles and checking against piling pressures and protecting our wellness. I loved chatting with Alec, loved his thoughtful questions, and love being able to share it here with you.  Be sure to check out Alec's show for a wealth of insights from dynamic public service leaders! Questions, topic ideas and feedback? Send a line! To stay connected with the latest and exclusive content: Subscribe to the FREE newsletter at on bluegritwellness.com  ! Don’t forget to follow and subscribe to Blue Grit Radio on Apple, Spotify, YouTube and more!  Sharing the show and episodes to your friends, peers, circles and social platforms is one of the greatest compliments I can receive- which truly helps the show grow. Please help support a healthier first responder community by giving us a 5 star rating (Spotify and Apple) and a review (on Apple) to help others find the show. Need help with entry-level, promotional testing, career & mindset coaching? Stop spinning your wheels and prep the right mindset and awareness of all the critical hiring steps with my comprehensive hiring guide: bluegritwellness.com/shop  Email at bluegritwellness@gmail.com ------------------------------------- Want to safeguard your health and the health of your team? United Diagnostic Services brings hospital-grade diagnostic technology directly to first responder agencies, making early detection of heart disease and cancer simpler than ever. For more information, visit udshealth.com ------------------------------------- *the opinions expressed in all episodes of this podcast and related materials do not reflect on any departments agencies.  music credit: Drive by ASham...

  5. Aug 26

    343: GOOD GRIT - How a Kid is Helping Others Dream Again, and How You Can Help!

    This job (and life) affords countless examples of inspirational things that humans are capable of.  It's that much more impactful and awe striking when it's one of our youth- shining a beacon of what's possible. I saw this young man, Atharv, at a local council presentation as he shared about how his personal medical challenges as a kid, and seeing other kids struggling with devastating diagnoses inspired him to start his own non-profit.  He came up with the idea of taking kids' drawings of characters and creating 3D printed renderings, so they could hold their actual creations in their hands.   Listen in, not only to learn how he built it from his own grit and conviction, but to nudge at what's possible for all of us.  Everyone has a special gift that we can use for good- we just have to nurture it's spark and grow its flame.  I am truly grateful to see such a sharp young man make his vision concrete- something we adults can all learn from! -- From Atharv -- "Printable Dreams is a nonprofit with a simple idea. Kids who are going through tough times send me a picture of their favorite cartoon or animal or anything their heart desires. We 3D print it for them. I started this because I have a heart condition myself. I know firsthand what it feels like to be a kid facing something hard and scary.  I also know how much a small moment of creativity and joy can mean when everything else feels out of your control. This isn't only for kids dealing with a medical problem. It is for a kid going through their parents' divorce. It is for a kid facing the loss of a family member or even something small. I just hope that when they see their imagination come to life and hold onto the thing they created, they feel a little more joy in their lives." Visit printabledreams.com to learn more and to contribute! Questions, topic ideas and feedback? Send a line! To stay connected with the latest and exclusive content: Subscribe to the FREE newsletter at on bluegritwellness.com  ! Don’t forget to follow and subscribe to Blue Grit Radio on Apple, Spotify, YouTube and more!  Sharing the show and episodes to your friends, peers, circles and social platforms is one of the greatest compliments I can receive- which truly helps the show grow. Please help support a healthier first responder community by giving us a 5 star rating (Spotify and Apple) and a review (on Apple) to help others find the show. Need help with entry-level, promotional testing, career & mindset coaching? Stop spinning your wheels and prep the right mindset and awareness of all the critical hiring steps with my comprehensive hiring guide: bluegritwellness.com/shop  Email at bluegritwellness@gmail.com ------------------------------------- Want to safeguard your health and the health of your team? United Diagnostic Services brings hospital-grade diagnostic technology directly to first responder agencies, making early detection of heart disease and cancer simpler than ever. For more information, visit udshealth.com ------------------------------------- *the opinions expressed in all episodes of this podcast and related materials do not reflect on any departments agencies.  music credit: Drive by ASham...

  6. Aug 17

    342: Moral Injury, Police & First Responders, Pathways & Prevention, Dr. Brooke Bartlett returns

    In this episode, Dr. Brooke Bartlett returns and discusses the concept of moral injury, its pathways, contributing factors, and strategies for recognition and support within public safety and military communities. Key Insights: The three pathways to moral injuryThe role of perception in experiencing moral injuryContributing factors like organizational policies and societal perceptionsStrategies for peer support and leadership to mitigate moral injuryThe importance of normalizing emotional responses and encouraging open dialogueYou can contact Dr. Brooke on prior Blue Grit Radio episodes 63 and 115. and https://www.linkedin.com/in/drbartlettphd/  #moral injury #publicsafety #militarypsychology #trauma #peersupport #organizationalbetrayal #mentalhealth #resilience #leadership #emotionalwellbeing Questions, topic ideas and feedback? Send a line! To stay connected with the latest and exclusive content: Subscribe to the FREE newsletter at on bluegritwellness.com  ! Don’t forget to follow and subscribe to Blue Grit Radio on Apple, Spotify, YouTube and more!  Sharing the show and episodes to your friends, peers, circles and social platforms is one of the greatest compliments I can receive- which truly helps the show grow. Please help support a healthier first responder community by giving us a 5 star rating (Spotify and Apple) and a review (on Apple) to help others find the show. Need help with entry-level, promotional testing, career & mindset coaching? Stop spinning your wheels and prep the right mindset and awareness of all the critical hiring steps with my comprehensive hiring guide: bluegritwellness.com/shop  Email at bluegritwellness@gmail.com ------------------------------------- Want to safeguard your health and the health of your team? United Diagnostic Services brings hospital-grade diagnostic technology directly to first responder agencies, making early detection of heart disease and cancer simpler than ever. For more information, visit udshealth.com ------------------------------------- *the opinions expressed in all episodes of this podcast and related materials do not reflect on any departments agencies.  music credit: Drive by ASham...

  7. Aug 10

    341: Good GRIT - On & Off Duty Passions, Car Crash Rehab & Police, Limitless Momentum, w/ Ariana Stone

    In this episode, Ariana Stone shares her inspiring journey of resilience, mental health advocacy, and leadership in first responder communities. We explore her personal experiences: grappling with extreme physical injury and rehab, innovative police programs like co-response units, building a brand that is helping first responder mental health, and practical advice for mental wellness and professional growth. Ariana is an active police officer and the founder of Limitless Momentum. She is a returning guest from the highly popular FTO panel episode, #192. Find out more at: https://limitlessmomentum.us/ #resilience #mentalhealth #firstresponders #coresponseunits #leadership #wellness #personalgrowth #communityimpact Questions, topic ideas and feedback? Send a line! To stay connected with the latest and exclusive content: Subscribe to the FREE newsletter at on bluegritwellness.com  ! Don’t forget to follow and subscribe to Blue Grit Radio on Apple, Spotify, YouTube and more!  Sharing the show and episodes to your friends, peers, circles and social platforms is one of the greatest compliments I can receive- which truly helps the show grow. Please help support a healthier first responder community by giving us a 5 star rating (Spotify and Apple) and a review (on Apple) to help others find the show. Need help with entry-level, promotional testing, career & mindset coaching? Stop spinning your wheels and prep the right mindset and awareness of all the critical hiring steps with my comprehensive hiring guide: bluegritwellness.com/shop  Email at bluegritwellness@gmail.com ------------------------------------- Want to safeguard your health and the health of your team? United Diagnostic Services brings hospital-grade diagnostic technology directly to first responder agencies, making early detection of heart disease and cancer simpler than ever. For more information, visit udshealth.com ------------------------------------- *the opinions expressed in all episodes of this podcast and related materials do not reflect on any departments agencies.  music credit: Drive by ASham...

  8. Aug 3

    340: Police & Martial Arts, Training, Identity & More! w/ Jason Harney

    Story-telling is a key element core to our human existence, and is one that is unmatched in teaching, depicting, and building understanding.  My guest, Jason Harney, retired Las Vegas Metro sergeant and veteran turned documentary creator joins me to discuss themes emergent from his career, necessity for legitimate training, and complex issues in policing lives and careers. We explore the dynamics of the policing industry, shifting culture, mental health, the importance of continuous learning, and how to transition into life after policing.  Jason shares with deep perspective from his time on the street, FTO, DT instructor, investigations, recruiting and roles in the academy. Some of Jason's deeply relevant work in producing, directing, editing and writing: “Is There Something Going On At Home?” (2023) A documentary film telling the stories of Police Officer trauma, through the lens of the Police Family and the voices of the Spouses & Children. “Wrist Lock” (2022) The Martial Arts’ Influence on Police Use of Force”.  A documentary film featuring high level martial artists from around the country, who have also served their communities as Law Enforcement Officers, as well as experts in police training, wellness, & fitness.  “Vinnie-isms: The Story of the Cop Comedian” (2024) "Repeat Offender" (2019) "The Wounded Blue" (2019)  “Voices of the Blue” (2020). You can contact Jason at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-harney-720bb7122/ X: @JasonHarney72 LightningDigitalEntertainment.com Questions, topic ideas and feedback? Send a line! To stay connected with the latest and exclusive content: Subscribe to the FREE newsletter at on bluegritwellness.com  ! Don’t forget to follow and subscribe to Blue Grit Radio on Apple, Spotify, YouTube and more!  Sharing the show and episodes to your friends, peers, circles and social platforms is one of the greatest compliments I can receive- which truly helps the show grow. Please help support a healthier first responder community by giving us a 5 star rating (Spotify and Apple) and a review (on Apple) to help others find the show. Need help with entry-level, promotional testing, career & mindset coaching? Stop spinning your wheels and prep the right mindset and awareness of all the critical hiring steps with my comprehensive hiring guide: bluegritwellness.com/shop  Email at bluegritwellness@gmail.com ------------------------------------- Want to safeguard your health and the health of your team? United Diagnostic Services brings hospital-grade diagnostic technology directly to first responder agencies, making early detection of heart disease and cancer simpler than ever. For more information, visit udshealth.com ------------------------------------- *the opinions expressed in all episodes of this podcast and related materials do not reflect on any departments agencies.  music credit: Drive by ASham...

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About

Welcome to Blue Grit Radio: the podcast for police officers, first responders, and service-minded leaders who want to elevate their performance in career and life.  Hosted by Eric Tung, an active police leader, trainer, and mentor, this show explores topics, lessons, and resources, for listeners with to achieve professional excellence and personal resilience. Each episode features raw conversations, actionable insights, and interviews with leaders in law enforcement, wellness experts, veterans, and high performers who share their lessons on overcoming adversity, leading with purpose, and creating positive change in their first responder and organizational culture. Whether you’re a rookie, veteran officer, aspiring leader, or just passionate about growth and service, Blue Grit Radio will help you strengthen your mindset, improve your health, and elevate your impact on the job and in life. Topics include: - Police leadership and team building - Officer mental health and wellness - Navigating toxic police culture - Resilience, mindset, and Stoicism - Career development and promotion - Fitness, family, and fulfillment beyond the badge Host Eric Tung is an 18-year police officer currently serving as a Patrol Operations Commander and wellness coordinator in Washington State.  He is an author, host, speaker, and industry voice focused on building critical mindset, wellness, recruiting, hiring, retention, police leadership, organizational health and community engagement.IG: @bluegritwellness / @bluegritradio Police Hiring and Testing and Promotional Guides! bluegritwellness.com/SHOP Free newsletter at bluegritwellness.com  Bluegritwellness@gmail.com The Blue Grit Radio Podcast  Subscribe, follow and share through YouTube, Spotify, Apple, Amazon and more!

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