Positive Connections Radio

MHNR Network, LLC
  • 4.5 (13)
  • Mental Health
  • Updated Weekly

Join former police detective and current certified drug and alcohol counselor, Michael Koch, invoking positive change and breaking the stigma of mental health issues among first responders.

  1. Situation Screwed/Still Survivable (Audio)

    Jun 9

    Situation Screwed/Still Survivable (Audio)

    Positive Connections Radio (Podcast) Episode 142 Situation Screwed/Still Survivable HALT and Call for Backup (Video) https://youtu.be/kVKX3HhJbKE Coast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintock Summary Captain James Owen is a retired fire captain, author, speaker, and recovery advocate dedicated to helping people navigate trauma, resilience, and recovery.After nearly 30 years in emergency services, including more than two decades with the Long Beach Fire Department, James served as a firefighter, paramedic, fire captain, incident commander, and peer support team member. He responded to everything from medical emergencies and major fires to hazardous materials incidents, wildland deployments, maritime operations, and urban search and rescue missions in one of Southern California's busiest communities.But James's most important battle didn't happen on an emergency scene, it happened after years of carrying the weight of trauma, loss, addiction, and the emotional toll that often comes with serving others. His personal journey led him to write The Last Patient: A Memoir of Resilience and Recovery, a powerful story about confronting the wounds we hide, rebuilding trust, and finding a path forward. Today, he speaks nationally about mental health, leadership, recovery, and post-traumatic growth.As the founder of Camp Pivot, James works with first responders, veterans, high-stress professionals, and their families, helping them develop practical tools to heal, reconnect, and reclaim purpose.His mission is simple: help strong people stop struggling in silence and remind them that recovery is possible.For speaking engagements, coaching, media inquiries, or bulk book orders, visit CaptainJamesOwen.com. Situation Screwed. Still Survivable. It's more than a slogan. It's a mindset. It's a mission. It's the work. “Be Strong, Stand Up, Speak Your Truth, and Break the Stigma.” Music by Rod Kim-Let’s Play-Soundtrack MentalHealthNewsRadionetwork.com http://www.youtube.com/@HALTandCallforBackup https://www.instagram.com/haltandcallforbackup/?hl=en Camp Pivot Founder www.captainjamesowen.com 562.884.4948

    26 min
  2. Step-9 (Audio) "Revised" Making Amends: Action Over Apology

    May 31

    Step-9 (Audio) "Revised" Making Amends: Action Over Apology

    Positive Connections Radio (Podcast) Episode 141 (72)  HALT and Call for Backup Step-9 "Revised" Making Amends: Action Over Apology Coast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintock Summary In this episode, Mike Koch and Jim McLintock dive into Step Nine of the recovery process, focusing on the importance of making amends. They discuss the fears associated with this step, the significance of facing the past, and the various ways to approach making amends. The conversation emphasizes the need for honesty, integrity, and empathy, as well as the role of support from sponsors and the recovery community. The hosts encourage listeners to embrace the courage required to make amends and highlight the personal growth that can result from this process. Takeaways Step nine is one of the scariest steps in recovery.Making direct amends is crucial for healing.It's important to face the people we've harmed.Amends should be made in person whenever possible.Expectations should be managed when making amends.Support from sponsors can be invaluable during this process.Making amends is about action, not just words.Trust is rebuilt slowly over time.Recovery is a journey that requires courage.Personal growth comes from taking responsibility for past actions.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Step Nine 02:47 Understanding Amends and Their Importance 05:29 Facing the Past: The Process of Making Amends 08:15 Reactions and Responses to Amends 11:11 The Role of Support in Making Amends 14:17 The Courage to Make Amends 17:06 The Impact of Amends on Personal Growth1 9:33 Recovery and the Importance of Community 22:30 Trust and Healing in Recovery 25:16 Conclusion and Encouragement for the Journey “Be Strong, Stand Up, Speak Your Truth, and Break the Stigma. ”Music by Rod Kim-Let’s Play-Soundtrack Firstresponder-wellness.com MentalHealthNewsRadionetwork.com Positiveconnectionsradio.com McLintockcounseling.com http://www.youtube.com/@HALTandCallforBackup https://www.instagram.com/haltandcallforbackup/?hl=en

    31 min
  3. The Hidden Pain Behind Every Breakup: Rejective Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) (AUDIO)

    Mar 20

    The Hidden Pain Behind Every Breakup: Rejective Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) (AUDIO)

    The Hidden Pain Behind Every Breakup Rejective Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD) Positive Connections Radio (Podcast) Episode 140 HALT and Call for Backup Coast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintock Summary This episode dives into Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD)-an intense emotional response to rejection often linked to ADHD, trauma, and early life experiences.Jim and Mike unpack why some people feel devastated by breakups, criticism, or abandonment, and how this pain can lead to people-pleasing, toxic relationships, and self-sabotage.They connect the dots between childhood wounds, fear of being alone, and adult relationship patterns, while offering practical tools like emotional awareness, self-talk, and the “28-day reset” to rebuild self-worth.At its core, this episode is about turning emotional pain into self-awareness-and finally breaking the cycle. “Be Strong, Stand Up, Speak Your Truth, and Break the Stigma.” Music by;Rod Kim-Let’s Play-Soundtrack

    47 min
  4. COPS are Conditioned to Stay Silent (AUDIO)

    Mar 15

    COPS are Conditioned to Stay Silent (AUDIO)

    COPS ARE CONDITIONED TO STAY SILENT For years, cops and first responders have been conditioned to believe that asking for help means you’re weak. The truth is, the things we see and carry from this job don’t just disappear. We bury them, we ignore them, or we try to numb them, until eventually the bucket overflows. I know because it happened to me. After 19 years in law enforcement, I stayed silent out of fear of the stigma and nearly lost everything before I finally asked for help. This video is for the first responders out there who are still carrying it alone. You’re not weak for speaking up; you’re human. “Be Strong, Stand Up, Speak Your Truth, and Break the Stigma.” Music by; Rod Kim-Let’s Play-Soundtrack Dan Lebowitz-Open and Closed Firstresponderwellness.com MentalHealthNewsRadionetwork.com Positiveconnectionsradio.com McLintockcounseling.com http://www.youtube.com/@HALTandCallforBackup

    6 min
  5. Don’t Fake the Badge (When “Trauma-Informed” Isn’t Enough) AUDIO ONLY

    Jan 19

    Don’t Fake the Badge (When “Trauma-Informed” Isn’t Enough) AUDIO ONLY

    Don’t Fake the Badge (When “Trauma-Informed” Isn’t Enough) With Dennis Carradin Jr. LPCMH, NCC, BCETS HALT and Call for Backup Episode 138  Coast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintock Summary Being “trauma-informed” isn’t the same as being trauma-experienced-and first responders know the difference immediately. In this episode of Positive Connections Radio / Halt and Call for Backup, we sit down with licensed trauma therapist and former first responder Dennis Carradin to talk about what actually works in trauma care for police, fire, EMS, and healthcare professionals. We break down the critical difference between trauma-informed, trauma-experienced, and trauma-practiced clinicians, why credibility can’t be faked, and how underqualified therapy can do real harm. Dennis shares hard truths about cumulative trauma, trust, stigma, and what first responders need from mental health professionals-not theory, not buzzwords, but real-world understanding.If you work in a high-stress profession, or support those who do, this conversation cuts through the noise and gets honest about trauma, resilience, and staying human in the job. Takeaways "It's about not feeling terrible.""You have to gain that experience.""I'm here to carry the weight until you're ready to carry the weight.""We need to talk to the younger ones.""You can actually cost someone's life because of your ineptness.""The average age of therapists is in the high 50s, low 60s.""You have to understand the hardship that somebody is going through.""I always tell folks, look, I'm your humble life guide.""You have to ask the hard questions.""It's about connection-based type of thing." Chapters00:00  Introduction to Dennis Carradin: Trauma and Resilience 04:14 Dennis Carradin's Background and Experience 08:40 The Importance of Mental Health in High-Stress Environments 13:03 Building Connections and Humor in Therapy 17:52 The Role of Support Systems in Trauma Recovery 19:37Dennis's Journey: From Firefighter to Therapist 21:45 The Importance of Trauma Work for First Responders 28:35Building Trust: The Therapist-Client Relationship 30:24 The Challenge of Inexperienced Therapists in Trauma Work 36:35 Understanding Trauma Therapy for First Responders 40:51 Vetting Trauma Therapists: Key Questions to Ask 47:54 The Importance of Experience in Therapy 50:40 Carrying the Weight: Supporting First Responders 55:23 Beyond the Call: Writing and Sharing Experiences 01:01:15 Connection and Understanding in Mental Health 01:06:23 Future of Mental Wellness for First Responders “Be Strong, Stand Up, Speak Your Truth, and Break the Stigma.” Music by Rod Kim-Let’s Play-Soundtrack denniscarradin.com traumasurvivorsfoundation.org Firstresponderwellness.com MentalHealthNewsRadionetwork.com Positiveconnectionsradio.com McLintockcounseling.com http://www.youtube.com/@HALTandCallforBackup

    1h 9m
  6. Episode 137 Step-8 "Revised" Laying the Groundwork for Amends

    Jan 11

    Episode 137 Step-8 "Revised" Laying the Groundwork for Amends

    Summary In this 12-Step Podcast Series, Mike Koch and Jim McLintock dive into the emotional complexities surrounding the concept of making amends. They encourage listeners to reflect on the feelings associated with unmade amends and the impact of holding onto resentment. The discussion emphasizes the importance of recognizing these feelings and exploring the paths they lead us down, ultimately guiding towards emotional healing and personal growth. This step involves making a list of those we have harmed and having the willingness to make amends.  Takeaways Reflecting on unmade amends can evoke strong emotions.Holding onto resentment can affect our life paths.It's important to recognize feelings associated with harm.Not everyone will make amends, and that's okay.Letting go of negative feelings is a crucial step.Understanding the damage caused by unresolved issues is vital.Exploring these feelings can lead to personal growth.Emotional healing often requires confronting painful memories.The journey of forgiveness is personal and unique.Recognizing where these feelings manifest in our lives is essential. “Be Strong, Stand Up, Speak Your Truth, and Break the Stigma.” Music by Rod Kim-Let’s Play-Soundtrack Firstresponderwellness.com MentalHealthNewsRadionetwork.com Positiveconnectionsradio.com McLintockcounseling.com http://www.youtube.com/@HALTandCallforBackup

    27 min
  7. Your Inner Critic Is Lying to You-and It’s Been Controlling Your Life

    12/28/2025

    Your Inner Critic Is Lying to You-and It’s Been Controlling Your Life

    Your Inner Critic Is Lying to You-and It’s Been Controlling Your Life Positive Connections Radio (Podcast) Summary Former police officer Mike Koch discusses the challenges of dealing with the inner critic, the importance of self-compassion, and the journey of recovery. He emphasizes the need for vulnerability in relationships, the significance of patience and change, and the value of building a supportive community. Throughout the discussion, he shares personal insights and practical advice for navigating life's struggles and fostering emotional well-being. TakeawaysAcknowledge and confront your inner critic.Practice self-compassion and kindness towards yourself.Vulnerability is essential for meaningful relationships.Recovery is a personal journey that varies for everyone.Change requires stepping out of your comfort zone.Patience is key in the recovery process.Building a supportive community can aid in recovery.Expectations can lead to disappointment; focus on progress instead.Taking small actions can lead to significant changes over time.Reaching out for help is a crucial first step.  Chapters00:00 Confronting the Inner Critic02:32 The Importance of Self-Compassion 05:45 Navigating Vulnerability and Relationships 08:28 The Journey of Recovery 11:20 Embracing Change and Patience 14:12 Building a Supportive Community 16:55 Taking Action and Making Changes “Be Strong, Stand Up, Speak Your Truth, and Break the Stigma.” Music by Rod Kim-Let’s Play-Soundtrack Firstresponderwellness.com MentalHealthNewsRadionetwork.com Positiveconnectionsradio.com McLintockcounseling.com http://www.youtube.com/@HALTandCallforBackup

    19 min
  8. Episode 135 Breaking the Chains Part-2

    12/15/2025

    Episode 135 Breaking the Chains Part-2

    Episode 135 Breaking the Chains Part-2 Positive Connections Radio (Podcast) HALT and Call for Backup Coast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintock Summary In this episode, Jim McLintock and Mike Koch discuss the struggles of first responders dealing with alcohol addiction and its impact on their relationships. They emphasize the importance of communication, setting boundaries, and taking responsibility for one's actions. The conversation highlights the fear and shame associated with addiction, the need for immediate action, and the significance of finding support within the community. The hosts encourage listeners to confront their issues and seek help, reminding them that recovery is possible and necessary for a healthier life. TakeawaysAlcohol is often used as a coping mechanism by first responders.Fear of losing loved ones is a common concern for those affected by addiction.Setting boundaries is crucial for both the person struggling with addiction and their loved ones.Communication is key in relationships impacted by addiction.Immediate action is necessary to address addiction issues.Support from peers and the community can aid in recovery.Trust is difficult to rebuild after addiction-related issues.The journey to recovery requires personal responsibility and effort.Recognizing the signs of addiction early can prevent further issues.It's important to figure out solutions together or individually.  Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Recovery and Personal Responsibility 11:13 Mental Health Challenges in Emergency Services 15:19 The Impact of Alcohol on Relationships 17:32 Consequences of Addiction and Regret 20:29 The Importance of Honesty and Accountability 22:59 Finding Purpose and Community in Recovery 24:24 Taking Ownership and Moving Forward “Be Strong, Stand Up, Speak Your Truth, and Break the Stigma.” Music by Rod Kim-Let’s Play-Soundtrack Firstresponderwellness.com MentalHealthNewsRadionetwork.com Positiveconnectionsradio.com McLintockcounseling.com http://www.youtube.com/@HALTandCallforBackup

    26 min
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4.5
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

Join former police detective and current certified drug and alcohol counselor, Michael Koch, invoking positive change and breaking the stigma of mental health issues among first responders.

Information

  • Creator
    MHNR Network, LLC
  • Years Active
    2018 - 2026
  • Episodes
    139
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright MHNR Network, LLC
  • Show Website
    Positive Connections Radio