Half Serious

Tess

In this show we delve into various hardships that people have had and how levity and laughter helped them through it. We will cover a variety of different people with different backgrounds to help show that no matter the situation, bringing a little levity to it can help you develop more grit and resilience to see it through. 50% First Responder Related and 50% variety of other stories involving hardship, grit, and trauma. ----- TRIGGER WARNING should be assumed with all episodes. This is real life with real problems. But along with that is real advice on how they got through it. Listen long enough and you may find the thing that gets you over that next hurdle. Feel  free to reach out if you would like to be a guest or share with someone you think should be. We are always looking for new people that have a story to tell.  Email: tess@halfseriousllc.com Follow us on Instagram @halfserious_podcacst and Facebook @Half Serious Podcast SWAG Shop

  1. 2d ago

    E56: 🚨Failure to Support, DUIs, and a Desperate Call for Change

    *Links/Contact Below* The conversation delves into the challenges faced by law enforcement officers, including issues of pay, leadership, and the emotional toll of their work. It highlights personal experiences in DUI enforcement and traffic homicide investigations, while also addressing the disconnect between officers and administration, and the need for systemic changes in the field. We talk about the challenges faced by law enforcement officers regarding promotions, mental health, and the consequences of personal decisions. It highlights the importance of open communication, support systems, and the need for accountability within the department. Takeaways Pay issues impact moraleLeadership affects officer retention Communication is crucialMental health support is lacking Mental health is crucialSelf-care prevents burnoutTRIGGER WARNING should be assumed with all episodes. This is real life with real problems. But along with that is real advice on how they got through it. Listen long enough and you may find the thing that gets you over that next hurdle. Feel  free to reach out if you would like to be a guest or share with someone you think should be. We are always looking for new people that have a story to tell.  Email: tess@halfseriousllc.com Follow us on Instagram @halfserious_podcacst and Facebook @Half Serious Podcast SWAG Shop

  2. Nov 3

    E55: Defying Death, The "Yea Buts," and Achieving Your Goals

    Vincent shares his harrowing experience of a severe e-scooter accident, his journey through recovery, and the lessons on resilience, gratitude, and living authentically. This episode offers deep insights into mental toughness and the power of perspective in overcoming life's toughest challenges. During his journey of resilience, authenticity, and building a life aligned with true happiness, he also gives advice on how to do the same. His outlooks are refreshing and something I hope to embody more in my everyday life.  This episode explores mental frameworks, overcoming hardships, and pursuing genuine success. HIGHLY suggest reading his book and checking out his instagram for daily motivation. Links For Vincent InstagramAmazon Book-Everthing Feels Impossible Until Its Done- by Vincent Van den Broeck Topics Vincent's e-scooter accident detailsImpact of head injury and recovery processLessons on resilience and mental toughnessThe role of gratitude in healingThe importance of a support system and mindsetInsights into the legal case and driverWriting a book about overcoming adversityThe influence of surroundings on mindsetThe significance of living authentically Vincent Van den Broeck's personal journey and resilienceThe Chase Yes framework for success measurementThe importance of authenticity and living true to oneselfOvercoming hardships and inspiring othersThe role of positivity and delusional optimismBuilding a life aligned with happiness and purposeThe impact of community and connection in recoveryFuture projects and global message of positivityPlease LIKE/Subscribe/Share Click Here for Half Serious Merchandise  TRIGGER WARNING should be assumed with all episodes. This is real life with real problems. But along with that is real advice on how they got through it. Listen long enough and you may find the thing that gets you over that next hurdle. Feel  free to reach out if you would like to be a guest or share with someone you think should be. We are always looking for new people that have a story to tell.  Email: tess@halfseriousllc.com Follow us on Instagram @halfserious_podcacst and Facebook @Half Serious Podcast

    E55: Defying Death, The "Yea Buts," and Achieving Your Goals

  3. Oct 20

    E54: 🚨Rookie Cops, Coming back from Tragedy, and Investing Outside of Policing

    In this episode, Justin shares his journey through law enforcement, from rookie days to narcotics, and the profound impact of personal tragedy on his career. Sometimes when you start your career day one, it turns into somthing completely different. And we find that policing seems to be that type of career. You don't know what changes and how it affects you until you are knee deep in it. On top of the regular hardships experienced in policing, Justin experienced the worst thing you can as a parent, and somehow found his way back. Listen in as we explore the challenges, memorable moments, and the importance of ethics and resilience in policing.  KEY TOPICS Justin's early days in policing and rookie experiencesMemorable and challenging moments in narcotics workThe impact of personal tragedy on police officersThe importance of ethics and integrity in law enforcementChanges in police culture and camaraderie over the yearsBalancing family life with police dutiesThe mental and physical toll of police workReflections on police training and squad dynamics Police career progression and challengesImpact of personal loss and resilienceImportance of staying busy and purposefulCareer transitions within law enforcementLessons learned from police investigations and experiencesPlease LIKE/Subscribe/Share Click Here for Half Serious Merchandise  TRIGGER WARNING should be assumed with all episodes. This is real life with real problems. But along with that is real advice on how they got through it. Listen long enough and you may find the thing that gets you over that next hurdle. Feel  free to reach out if you would like to be a guest or share with someone you think should be. We are always looking for new people that have a story to tell.  Email: tess@halfseriousllc.com Follow us on Instagram @halfserious_podcacst and Facebook @Half Serious Podcast

    E54: 🚨Rookie Cops, Coming back from Tragedy, and Investing Outside of Policing

  4. Oct 6

    E53: 🚨Leadership with Chief Kristen Ziman, Asking for Help, and Promoting Correctly

    Kristen Ziman shares her inspiring journey from police cadet to police chief, highlighting the challenges women face in law enforcement, leadership lessons, and strategies for career advancement. We cover an array of topics to include: leadership, mental health, and organizational culture in law enforcement, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability, influence, and resilience. I full appreciated the discussion and was reinvigorated knowing some places have the correct leadership in the correct places. Now how can we get this everywhere? If you are interested in learning more you can find her at KristenZiman.com and on Instgram @ziman_kristen  KEY TOPICS INCLUDE Kristen Ziman's career path from police cadet to chiefChallenges faced by women in law enforcementThe importance of mentorship and visibilityStrategies for career advancement and promotionOrganizational culture and favoritism in promotionsLeadership principles and personal development Leadership development in law enforcementMental health initiatives and legislationBuilding organizational culture and influenceThe importance of vulnerability and authenticityStrategies for officer retention and engagementImpact of ego and power in leadershipMentorship and succession planningResilience and self-care for leaders Please LIKE/Subscribe/Share Click Here for Half Serious Merchandise  TRIGGER WARNING should be assumed with all episodes. This is real life with real problems. But along with that is real advice on how they got through it. Listen long enough and you may find the thing that gets you over that next hurdle. Feel  free to reach out if you would like to be a guest or share with someone you think should be. We are always looking for new people that have a story to tell.  Email: tess@halfseriousllc.com Follow us on Instagram @halfserious_podcacst and Facebook @Half Serious Podcast

    E53: 🚨Leadership with Chief Kristen Ziman, Asking for Help, and Promoting Correctly

  5. Sep 22

    E52: Ricks Road to Recovery and Tactics to Beat Addiction

    Rick shares his powerful journey through addiction, recovery, and life-saving medical experiences, offering insights and hope for those battling similar struggles. His look at addiction is different from our previous episodes in that it was so embedded in his life, prior to deciding on recovery. Throughout my career in law enforcement, it is rare to see someone truly recover with the odds stacked against them the longer they are in it. He fought the odds and now wants other to join in with him on being sober and living a full life.   KEY TOPICS Rick's early life and predisposition to addictionThe role of family and early experiences in addictionTurning points that led to seeking helpThe inpatient treatment experience and recovery supportThe importance of community and mentorship in sobrietyThe impact of health crises and medical interventionsThe significance of daily choices and mental health managementStrategies for relapse prevention and ongoing recoveryThe role of faith, gratitude, and service in healingAdvice for those struggling with addiction and mental health How to Find Rick - Instagram at @ricksroadtorecovery and on TikTiok @ricksroadtorecovery Follow him for your daily inspirational needs.  Please LIKE/Subscribe/Share Click Here for Half Serious Merchandise  TRIGGER WARNING should be assumed with all episodes. This is real life with real problems. But along with that is real advice on how they got through it. Listen long enough and you may find the thing that gets you over that next hurdle. Feel  free to reach out if you would like to be a guest or share with someone you think should be. We are always looking for new people that have a story to tell.  Email: tess@halfseriousllc.com Follow us on Instagram @halfserious_podcacst and Facebook @Half Serious Podcast

    E52: Ricks Road to Recovery and Tactics to Beat Addiction

  6. Sep 8

    E51: 🚨Police Jujitsu, Keeping Positive Mindsets, and Cell Phone Murders

    Jerry is possibly one of the most influential police officers in this area. He can get officers to follow him through hell because they know he would do the same for them. And they also know he probably has a damn good plan for leading them through it. He grew up policing in the 90s and earned his way through the trenches to be the leader and person he is today. A staple in the policing community. Even though he has retired, he still works part time training cadets and seasoned law enforcement in jujitsu. His drive for a safer department (and other passionate practitioners in the department) has helped to form one of the best jujitsu programs for police in the southeast. Oh yea, and he does sprinkle in some good stories from policing back in the 90s when he was the rookie... Episode sponsored by Cindy's Web Designs! And get an easrly glimpse at my new company coming soon- Threat Zeno ----- KEY TOPICS Jerry's early years in policing and memorable callsDevelopment of GST and its impact on police trainingThe role of jiu-jitsu in law enforcement and officer safetyLeadership principles and building effective followershipBalancing physical skills and mental resilience in policingTraining strategies for officers on different shiftsThe importance of continuous learning and adaptation in police workReal-life stories of police encounters and lessons learned Jerry's career progression from homicide to captainLeadership principles and team building in police workStress management and mental health awarenessThe importance of authenticity and approachability in leadershipLessons learned from high-stakes police operationsThe impact of line of duty deaths on officersBalancing departmental politics and personal integrity Please LIKE/Subscribe/Share Click Here for Half Serious Merchandise  TRIGGER WARNING should be assumed with all episodes. This is real life with real problems. But along with that is real advice on how they got through it. Listen long enough and you may find the thing that gets you over that next hurdle. Feel  free to reach out if you would like to be a guest or share with someone you think should be. We are always looking for new people that have a story to tell.  Email: tess@halfseriousllc.com Follow us on Instagram @halfserious_podcacst and Facebook @Half Serious Podcast

    E51: 🚨Police Jujitsu, Keeping Positive Mindsets, and Cell Phone Murders

  7. Aug 25

    E50: 🚨FLUFFER Episode (Q&A), Police Academies, Coping Mechanisms, and Favorite Episode

    HALF SERIOUS celebrates the 50th episode of the podcast, reflecting on the journey, sharing insights on law enforcement, mental health, and personal growth, and addressing listener questions. Key Topics Milestone celebration and reflection on 50 episodes Insights into police academy training and mental resilience Coping mechanisms for first responders and their health Understanding the challenges faced by police officers in trouble The impact of social media and public perception on law enforcement Recruitment challenges and standards in policing The importance of stress inoculation and mental health support Personal growth and continuous self-improvement in law enforcement   Austin Bridges Therapy- Referenced in one of the answers to your questions Please LIKE/Subscribe/Share Click Here for Half Serious Merchandise  TRIGGER WARNING should be assumed with all episodes. This is real life with real problems. But along with that is real advice on how they got through it. Listen long enough and you may find the thing that gets you over that next hurdle. Feel  free to reach out if you would like to be a guest or share with someone you think should be. We are always looking for new people that have a story to tell.  Email: tess@halfseriousllc.com Follow us on Instagram @halfserious_podcacst and Facebook @Half Serious Podcast

    E50: 🚨FLUFFER Episode (Q&A), Police Academies, Coping Mechanisms, and Favorite Episode

  8. Aug 18

    E49: 🚨Hunting those that Hunt Children and Protecting the Most Vulnerable

    In this episode, Officers Chase and Riggins share their experiences and insights from their specialized unit's efforts in combating child exploitation and human trafficking in Huntsville, Alabama. They discuss the challenges, successes, and the importance of proactive policing in protecting vulnerable victims. We talk experiences with insights into combating human trafficking and online child exploitation. KEY TOPICS Child trafficking and exploitation efforts in HuntsvilleUse of cyber tips and undercover operationsPart-time vs. full-time law enforcement unitsPartnerships with federal agencies like Homeland Security and FBIChallenges of investigating online child exploitationImpact of proactive policing on community safetyCase studies of successful rescues and sting operationsThe importance of specialized training and resources Human trafficking case investigationUse of technology in law enforcementChallenges in prosecuting online child exploitationCommunity involvement in child safetyImpact of social media and gaming platforms Child exploitation and online safetyLaw enforcement collaboration and federal partnershipsCommunity engagement and resource allocationTechnological tools and training for policeFuture goals for a dedicated child protection unitCovenant Rescue Group Please LIKE/Subscribe/Share Click Here for Half Serious Merchandise  TRIGGER WARNING should be assumed with all episodes. This is real life with real problems. But along with that is real advice on how they got through it. Listen long enough and you may find the thing that gets you over that next hurdle. Feel  free to reach out if you would like to be a guest or share with someone you think should be. We are always looking for new people that have a story to tell.  Email: tess@halfseriousllc.com Follow us on Instagram @halfserious_podcacst and Facebook @Half Serious Podcast

    E49: 🚨Hunting those that Hunt Children and Protecting the Most Vulnerable
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Trailer

About

In this show we delve into various hardships that people have had and how levity and laughter helped them through it. We will cover a variety of different people with different backgrounds to help show that no matter the situation, bringing a little levity to it can help you develop more grit and resilience to see it through. 50% First Responder Related and 50% variety of other stories involving hardship, grit, and trauma. ----- TRIGGER WARNING should be assumed with all episodes. This is real life with real problems. But along with that is real advice on how they got through it. Listen long enough and you may find the thing that gets you over that next hurdle. Feel  free to reach out if you would like to be a guest or share with someone you think should be. We are always looking for new people that have a story to tell.  Email: tess@halfseriousllc.com Follow us on Instagram @halfserious_podcacst and Facebook @Half Serious Podcast SWAG Shop

Information

  • Creator
    Tess
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    56
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Tess
  • Show Website
    Half Serious