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. 19h ago

    327: Lincoln on Leadership: Key Strategies and Tactics, Book Review

    "Lead by being led." In this conversation, Eric reviews the book 'Lincoln on Leadership' by Donald T. Phillips, exploring the leadership principles exemplified by Abraham Lincoln during one of the most tumultuous times in American history.  The discussion highlights key concepts such as the importance of values, flexibility, persuasion over coercion, maintaining hope, engaging with public opinion, empowering teams, and the role of compromise in effective leadership. Eric emphasizes that these lessons are applicable across various fields and industries, making them relevant for leaders at all levels. Lincoln was known for his high integrity and values.Effective leaders are flexible in their tactics and strategies.Circulating among the team fosters better relationships.Never act out of anger; take time to reflect before responding.Persuasion is more effective than coercion in leadership.Leaders should seek feedback and consent from their teams.Maintaining hope is crucial for morale and effectiveness.Engaging with public opinion helps leaders stay grounded.Compromise is a strength, not a weakness in leadership.Persistence and resourcefulness are key to overcoming challenges. 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 OR promotional testing? 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 me at bluegritwellness@gmail.com !  ------------------------------------- Want a discount on the best value high-quality supplements? I've legitimately used Nutricost products easily for a decade.  Whey isolate, plant proteins, collagen, vitamins, etc...?? Promo Code: BLUEGRIT - 10% off Affiliate link: https://nutricost.com/discount/BLUEGRIT   -----------——————————- *the opinions expressed in all episodes of this podcast and related materials do not reflect on any departments agencies.  music credit: Drive by AShamaluevMusic

    32 min

  2. 2d ago

    326: Real Responder Resources: What's Next? w/ Code 4 NW, Nick Bauer & Andy McCurdy

    Who helps the helpers?  This is a question that organizations like Code 4 Northwest has been working to answer since before I started in this career nearly two decades ago. If you didn't know much about first responder wellness or mental health resources, if you were in Washington, you knew about Code 4 NW.  In this episode, I am joined by Nick Bauer (retired Seattle PD Sgt) and returning guest Chief Andy McCurdy.  We talk about the new chapter we are moving into with statewide efforts and true real action for first responder resources. We explore how Code 4 NW supports first responders with peer support, mental health resources, and community-building efforts. With insights from leaders deeply involved in this mission, we examine the evolving landscape of wellness and the tangible ways organizations can make a difference. The lessons and topics translate beyond state lines and are a meaningful listen as we consider what we do to build and develop progress in efforts to keep our people and teams healthy, whole, balanced, and well. Be sure to visit the new site at: https://code4northwest.org/ For more information you can contact: Nick at nickb@code4northwest.org  Andy at andym@code4northwest.org 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 OR promotional testing? 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 me at bluegritwellness@gmail.com !  ------------------------------------- Want a discount on the best value high-quality supplements? I've legitimately used Nutricost products easily for a decade.  Whey isolate, plant proteins, collagen, vitamins, etc...?? Promo Code: BLUEGRIT - 10% off Affiliate link: https://nutricost.com/discount/BLUEGRIT   -----------——————————- *the opinions expressed in all episodes of this podcast and related materials do not reflect on any departments agencies.  music credit: Drive by AShamaluevMusic

    55 min

  3. 6d ago

    325: MORE Hiring Q&A for Police and Public Safety Careers

    In this quick episode, I answer questions that help entry-level applicants and those testing for special unit selection as well as promotions.  We cover interview tips and written test insights! For more information check out other episodes and go to bluegritwellness.com/shop for an extensive guide for testing - so you can learn each step of the process in detail AND how to prepare. 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 OR promotional testing? 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 me at bluegritwellness@gmail.com !  ------------------------------------- Want a discount on the best value high-quality supplements? I've legitimately used Nutricost products easily for a decade.  Whey isolate, plant proteins, collagen, vitamins, etc...?? Promo Code: BLUEGRIT - 10% off Affiliate link: https://nutricost.com/discount/BLUEGRIT   -----------——————————- *the opinions expressed in all episodes of this podcast and related materials do not reflect on any departments agencies.  music credit: Drive by AShamaluevMusic

    20 min

  4. May 26

    324: Police & Purpose - through Unrest, Loss and the Grind, w/ Capt. Kory Flowers

    The past few years highlighted many police leaders hanging up the badge - often with their sharing about how it just wasn't worth it anymore.  I'm glad to be able to connect with and feature Captain Kory Flowers, who shared his enthusiasm and pride in the profession, despite what he, his team, and our industry endured.  I greatly appreciated reflecting on how we are strong, not simply in spite of adversity, but BECAUSE of the adversity. Captain Kory Flowers shares insights on maintaining purpose, resilience, and positivity in policing amidst challenges like social unrest, personal loss, and the demands of the profession. Discover practical strategies for mental wellness, leadership, and fostering a supportive community within law enforcement.   This is one that will motivate and inspire rookies to retirees, not just in how we do the good work we intend, but how we can refocus and orient our resolve. Key topics Maintaining purpose and faith in policingStrategies for mental health and resilienceLeadership and community building in law enforcementQuestions, 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 OR promotional testing? 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 me at bluegritwellness@gmail.com !  ------------------------------------- Want a discount on the best value high-quality supplements? I've legitimately used Nutricost products easily for a decade.  Whey isolate, plant proteins, collagen, vitamins, etc...?? Promo Code: BLUEGRIT - 10% off Affiliate link: https://nutricost.com/discount/BLUEGRIT   -----------——————————- *the opinions expressed in all episodes of this podcast and related materials do not reflect on any departments agencies.  music credit: Drive by AShamaluevMusic

    50 min

  5. May 21

    323: GOOD GRIT: Reality of Resilience, Donna Brown Returns - Responder Advocate & Trainer, Author, Police Sgt. ret.

    I am grateful to premiere the new GOOD GRIT series, focused on people doing genuinely GOOD stuff out there in the community.  Who better to kick this off than returning guest Donna Brown, mental health advocate, trainer and retired police sergeant?? (from ep. 32!) Donna, a retired homicide detective and author, shares her insights on resilience, identity, and the importance of gratitude in navigating life's challenges. Donna’s experience as a first responder, her reflections on mental health, and some of her own health challenges and reflections are shared to help us gain pause, presence, and clarity.  Her commitment to teaching and supporting her community offer valuable lessons for anyone facing adversity or seeking purpose beyond their career. In this episode: Donna’s journey from law enforcement to mental health advocate and storytellerThe role of curiosity and communication in building trust and understandingHow her diagnosis reshaped her perspective, emphasizing gratitude and daily ritualsThe significance of vulnerability and sharing struggles within professions steeped in traumaThe transformative potential of post-traumatic growth and choosing what to do with adversityThe impact of service dogs like Brody in healing and connectionPractical insights on maintaining resilience, positivity, and community engagementQuestions, 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 OR promotional testing? 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 me at bluegritwellness@gmail.com !  ------------------------------------- Want a discount on the best value high-quality supplements? I've legitimately used Nutricost products easily for a decade.  Whey isolate, plant proteins, collagen, vitamins, etc...?? Promo Code: BLUEGRIT - 10% off Affiliate link: https://nutricost.com/discount/BLUEGRIT   -----------——————————- *the opinions expressed in all episodes of this podcast and related materials do not reflect on any departments agencies.  music credit: Drive by AShamaluevMusic

    42 min

  6. May 18

    322: The REAL Gift of Gab to Build Police Teams and Save Lives w/ Alex Mann

    In this engaging interview, Alex Mann shares insights on the art of communication, de-escalation, and adaptability in policing, drawing from his 28-year career and unique experience in improv comedy. Discover practical techniques for effective community engagement, the importance of flexibility, and how humor can be a powerful tool in law enforcement. The Importance of Communication in Policing Improv and Humor as De-escalation Tools Redefining Winning in Policing The Art of Adaptability in Policing Real-World Application of Improv Techniques Acknowledging Reality and Building Trust Leadership Through Collaboration and Humility The Power of Humor in High-Stress Environments Community Engagement and Empathy in Policing Improv as a Tool for Effective Communication Bridging Gaps Between Law Enforcement and Community Flexibility and Adaptability in Crisis Situations Finding Opportunities in Challenges policing, communication, de-escalation, adaptability, improv, community engagement, leadership, mental health, conflict resolution, law enforcement training You can find him at alexmanncomedy.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 OR promotional testing? 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 me at bluegritwellness@gmail.com !  ------------------------------------- Want a discount on the best value high-quality supplements? I've legitimately used Nutricost products easily for a decade.  Whey isolate, plant proteins, collagen, vitamins, etc...?? Promo Code: BLUEGRIT - 10% off Affiliate link: https://nutricost.com/discount/BLUEGRIT   -----------——————————- *the opinions expressed in all episodes of this podcast and related materials do not reflect on any departments agencies.  music credit: Drive by AShamaluevMusic

    47 min

  7. May 11

    321: No More Performance Evals? Why they aren't Effective and What to do Instead, w/ Chief Scott Hughes

    We all know evals are generally ineffective. They're check boxes, and often don't reflect objectively across the ranks.   In this conversation, Chief Scott Hughes discusses the importance of mentorship, effective evaluations, and the need for a cultural shift in law enforcement. He emphasizes the significance of regular check-ins and positive recognition to build trust and motivate officers. The discussion also touches on the challenges of traditional performance evaluations and the role of body cameras in providing a more holistic view of officer performance. Ultimately, Hughes advocates for self-reflection and leadership that prioritizes the well-being of officers and the community. Mentorship is crucial for developing future leaders in law enforcement.Evaluations should focus on meaningful feedback rather than checkbox metrics.Regular check-ins foster trust and improve officer performance.Body cameras can provide valuable insights into officer behavior beyond just use of force incidents.Positive recognition is essential for motivating officers and improving morale.Cultural challenges in law enforcement can hinder progress and trust.Self-reflection is vital for effective leadership and personal growth.A supportive organizational culture leads to better outcomes for officers and the community.Frequent communication helps identify issues before they escalate.Law enforcement is a demanding profession that requires ongoing support and appreciation for officers.You can find Scott on LinkedIn and at https://www.crosdenconsulting.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 OR promotional testing? 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 me at bluegritwellness@gmail.com !  ------------------------------------- Want a discount on the best value high-quality supplements? I've legitimately used Nutricost products easily for a decade.  Whey isolate, plant proteins, collagen, vitamins, etc...?? Promo Code: BLUEGRIT - 10% off Affiliate link: https://nutricost.com/discount/BLUEGRIT   -----------——————————- *the opinions expressed in all episodes of this podcast and related materials do not reflect on any departments agencies.  music credit: Drive by AShamaluevMusic

    44 min

  8. May 4

    320: Ask for Help & Lose your Job? Confidentiality, Therapy Types, Sleep, L&I for First Responders, Police and Military w/ Drs. Thalia Nicholson & Larissa Tate

    In this conversation, Dr. Thalia Nicholson and Dr. Larissa Tate discuss the mental health challenges faced by first responders and veterans, specifically the hurdle of reaching out for help, fearing loss of badge, job, clearance, and more.  They emphasize the importance of evidence-based treatments, the role of rapport in therapy, and the nuances of confidentiality. The discussion also covers the significance of sleep health and the barriers to seeking help, providing listeners with actionable insights and resources for mental wellness. 02:09: Meet the Experts: Dr. Thalia Nicholson and Dr. Larissa Tate 05:34: Understanding Therapy: Beyond Stigmas and Modalities 16:01: Evidence-Based Treatments for PTSD 23:51: Exploring Sleep Disorders and Their Treatments 32:05: Addressing Addictive Behaviors 38:21: Confidentiality in Peer Support Programs 54:05: Evaluating Fitness for Duty and Confidentiality Dr. Thalia Nicholson is a licensed clinical psychologist in California and Nevada who specializes in working with first responders, active-duty service members, veterans, and other frontline professionals. She provides trauma-informed, evidence-based care tailored to the unique demands, exposures, and culture of these roles. Her clinical approach emphasizes practical, skills-based interventions that support stabilization, resilience, and functional recovery in both acute and ongoing situations. In addition to providing therapy, Dr. Nicholson conducts pre-employment and fitness-for-duty evaluations and consults with agencies on behavioral health and wellness initiatives.   www.americasfirstresponderservices.com Dr. Larissa Tate is a licensed clinical psychologist and founder of Momentum Behavioral Health, a private practice serving clients in New York, Maryland, North Carolina, Alabama, and Florida. She specializes in the assessment and treatment of sleep disorders, anxiety, and trauma, with particular expertise in working with professionals in high-stakes, high-pressure roles including first responders, military personnel, medical professionals, attorneys, and others who are used to carrying a lot and rarely slowing down. www.momentumbehavioralhealth.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 OR promotional testing? 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 me at bluegritwellness@gmail.com !  ------------------------------------- Want a discount on the best value high-quality supplements? I've legitimately used Nutricost products easily for a decade.  Whey isolate, plant proteins, collagen, vitamins, etc...?? Promo Code: BLUEGRIT - 10% off Affiliate link: https://nutricost.com/discount/BLUEGRIT   -----------——————————- *the opinions expressed in all episodes of this podcast and related materials do not reflect on any departments agencies.  music credit: Drive by AShamaluevMusic

    1h 2m
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4.9
out of 5
97 Ratings

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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