Donovan Heavener on Support for First Responders Coping with PTSD & Off-Duty Shooting

We never know where life might take us, and today's guest, Donovan Heavener, is a perfect example of that. With 29 years of experience in law enforcement, Donovan shares his fascinating journey into a profession he never dreamed of pursuing.

Together, we explore his passion for making a difference in people's lives and the defining moments that have shaped his career.

A particularly powerful part of our conversation delves into Donovan's off-duty shooting experience, his struggle with PTSD, and the importance of having a support system in place.

We also examine the impact of our jobs on our relationships and how Donovan has found purpose and identity beyond his law enforcement career. Plus, we have a blast with a lively "This or That" segment, revealing Donovan's preferences on everything from night shifts to donuts.

As we wrap up our compelling and insightful discussion with Donovan Heavener, we address the trend of people leaving the law enforcement profession and the significance of community and support for first responders.

We're reminded of the importance of finding one's passion in life and the power of staying connected to those who matter most. Don't miss this incredible episode as we learn and grow together.

About Donovan Heavener

• 29 years in LE
• Worked in Wisconsin and Washington
• Sits on the Special Olympics Board of Directors
• Recognized for work in community policing and by school boards for work as an SRO
• From Washington State

Follow Donovan

• Facebook
• LinkedIn
• The Police Applicate Podcast

Episode Chapters

(0:00:00): Law Enforcement & Off-Duty Shooting

(0:11:55): PTSD Recovery Through Special Olympics

(0:23:35): Life Lessons and Self-Reflection

(0:29:20): Finding Purpose and Identity Beyond Work

(0:33:37): Life, Family, and Law Enforcement

(0:39:01): Support First Responders

Episode Chapters with Short Keys

(0:00:00): Law Enforcement & Off-Duty Shooting

Police officer Donovan Heavener shares his journey, passion for making a difference, moments of doubt, and why he chose the profession.

(0:11:55): PTSD Recovery Through Special Olympics

Donovan Heavener shares his journey with PTSD, coping strategies, and how he now talks to recruits about his experience.

(0:23:35): Life Lessons and Self-Reflection

Donovan reflects on family, shooting experience, retirement, and purpose, emphasizing the importance of staying busy for mental well-being.

(0:29:20): Finding Purpose and Identity Beyond Work

Donovan Heavener's law enforcement career transition and the importance of finding passion and honest friends are discussed.

(0:33:37): Life, Family, and Law Enforcement

Donovan reflects on his mother's influence, and discusses night shift vs. day shift, donuts with filling vs. without.

(0:39:01): Support First Responders

Donovan Heavener's 29-year journey in and out of law enforcement, adjusting to life after, and thoughts on unexpected turns are discussed.

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Support First Responders:

Blue Java Coffee Co. is a coffee brand that I started, one because I like coffee and two, because a portion of every purchase, will be donated to a different campaign on the “Fund the First” platform and helping first responders in need. Get your coffee here!

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