S4 E15 Duty, Depression, and Deliverance with guest, Rob Rudewicz, Retired Police Captain, April 10, 2024 Responder Resilience

In this eye-opening episode of our podcast, we delve into the life of Rob Rudewicz, a man whose career in law enforcement spanned two decades, culminating in his retirement as a Captain from the Hartford Police Department. Rob's journey is not just a tale of policing a city he grew up in, but it's also a raw exploration of his own personal battles with addiction, depression, and surviving stage 4 pancreatic cancer. His story is one of vulnerability and courage, as he shares his experiences with unflinching honesty, offering listeners a rare glimpse into the complexities of life behind the badge.

Rob's tenure in the police force was marked by both traditional and non-traditional roles, even serving as acting chief of police, which brought its own unique set of challenges and triumphs. We explore how these experiences intertwined with his early life traumas, further complicating his journey towards recovery. The conversation takes a deep dive into the ways in which the pressures of the job exacerbated Rob's struggles with addiction, and how adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) played a role in his depression.

Adding another layer to his inspiring story, Rob discusses his contribution to "The Expanding Man Chronicles," a recently published book that sheds light on personal transformation and recovery. This episode is not just about the struggles; it's about overcoming them. It's about Rob Rudewicz's ultimate success in finding true recovery and the lessons we can all learn from his journey. Join us as we uncover the resilience of the human spirit, through the eyes of a man who faced his demons and emerged victorious.