Bend Don't Break

Bend Don’t Break is a podcast that tells the story of police officers who have overcome significant adversity in their personal and professional lives. Through the power of story, the listener will understand the depth of resilience and personal strength that exists in the men and women who protect our communities 24x7.

PART TWO. Starlight Casio Shooting - Jordan MacWilliams 02/11/2025

PART TWO. Starlight Casio Shooting - Jordan MacWilliams On this episode of Bend Don’t Break, your host, Neil Dubord, is joined by Constable Jordan MacWilliams once again, to continue his story from last week’s episode. Jordan has gone through significant events over the last several years — making him the perfect person to discuss the topic of resiliency in the field. His story starts on November 8th, 2012, a fateful night in both his life and work. Having been sent to a dangerous hostage situation at Starlight Casino, Jordan has to make one of the toughest decisions of his life for the safety of his colleagues. In this episode, Jordan outlines the events that followed this event: his court appearances, avoiding the media, and managing his stress, emotions, and feelings around the whole ordeal. He also highlights key factors in how he managed to overcome his struggles surrounding the situation and gives advice on how to get through similar situations. Key Takeaways: [:43] Chief Neil Dubord recaps last week’s episode and Jordan picks up the story where he left it, with the fated phone call. [3:06] Jordan outlines the events following the phone call: getting a lawyer, going to court, receiving bail, and avoiding the media. [7:55] Jordan talks about the internal part of the week after being charged: managing stress and emotions, and his feelings towards the organization. [11:00] Jordan explains how he managed to have a positive outlook on the situation and gives his advice to others. [13:51] Who helped Jordan the most get through this difficult time? And what did they do to make him feel better? [15:57] How Jordan’s 2014 ended (in terms of where he was with the organization). [19:43] The early events in 2015, 30 months after being charged: watching the tape of the incident for the first time, his second court appearance, and hearing the hostage’s side of the story. [24:04] The summer of 2015: the moment Jordan was waiting for that marked his freedom. [26:00] Jordan talks about an important factor in his recovery: choice. [27:47] Jordan reflects on the importance of structure. [29:30] What Jordan considers to be a key component in helping him to overcome his struggle. [32:02] Jordan’s suggestions for how to help others we may not know are carrying silent struggles or burdens. [34:45] Chief Neil Dubord gives his thanks to Jordan for talking about his story. Looking for More Episodes? You can find more episodes of Bend Don't Break on all the major Podcast Channels /episode/index/show/benddontbreak/id/35118615

CHARGED WITH MURDER- THE STARLIGHT CASINO SHOOTING 02/04/2025

CHARGED WITH MURDER- THE STARLIGHT CASINO SHOOTING Today on Bend Don’t Break, it is another one from the archieves and the next two episodes will go over one of the most popular series on Bend Don’t Break. Jordan has gone through significant events over the last several years — making him the perfect person to discuss the topic of resiliency in the field. He’s happily married with two young daughters. Currently, he’s seconded, working at The Lower Mainland District Emergency Response Team. He joined the Delta Police Department as a Reserve Constable back in 2007, graduated in 2009, and then worked Patrol until 2012 when he got onto the Integrated Emergency Response Team. Jordan’s story starts on November 8th, 2012, a fateful night in both his life and work. Having been sent to a dangerous hostage situation at Starlight Casino, Jordan has to make one of the toughest decisions of his life for the safety of his colleagues. In this podcast, Jordan details the event that changed his life; how he dealt with it in the following days, months, and years; his thoughts and emotions during and after; how he persevered through his struggle and was able to maintain his committed and engaged attitude throughout; and whether or not he would have done it all differently if he could do it all again. Key Takeaways: [:59] About today’s show with Jordan. [1:15] Starting off easy, Chief Dubord asks: When was the last time you ate at McDonald’s? [1:35] Jordan’s favourite book and what he’s currently reading. [1:58] Jordan’s current status; life and work-wise. [2:50] Jordan talks about his history working for the Delta Police Department, his family’s lineage within it, and his initial career goals. [4:28] Jordan begins his story, starting with the events that lead up to the fateful Starlight Casino file. [5:55] Continuing his story, Jordan details the events that happened that day. [15:12] Jordan’s thoughts and emotions during the shootout, and the events that followed. [26:33] How the following media coverage impacted Jordan’s life. [28:28] How many days off did Jordan have after everything had happened? What happened when he got back? [32:10] Is there anything the organization could’ve done better for Jordan in this situation? [33:18] Now working in the training unit, Jordan outlines his work in the following months and his wait on more information in the coming years. [37:00] How Jordan dealt with the wait and managed to maintain a committed and engaged attitude during work. [38:25] What Jordan would’ve done differently if he knew what he knows now, going into it all. [40:08] Jordan talks about some of the additional stressors that were in his life at the time. [41:21] Jordan explains what happened for him in 2014. [46:58] A preview of next week’s episode. Tune in next week to hear the rest of Jordan’s story! /episode/index/show/benddontbreak/id/35103900

CIA Secrets to Escape 01/07/2025

Nearly Losing her Life over a Stolen Chocolate Bar: From Trauma to Triumph 12/31/2024

Episode #79 With Brian Willis 12/17/2024

Episode #79 With Brian Willis "Insights into Resilience of First Responders" This episode of the Bend Don't Break podcast features a role reversal, with Brian Willis of the Excellence in Training Academy interviewing Neil Dubord, about the lessons and insights gained from the first 70 episodes of Bend Don't Break. The podcast explores the resilience of first responders, touching on critical incidents, mental health challenges, and strategies for overcoming adversity. Key Themes Discussed: Origin of the Podcast: Neil shares how the Bend Don't Break podcast started as a Delta Police Department initiative, inspired by the need to reduce stigma around mental health and tell authentic stories of resilience. The podcast focuses on sharing personal experiences to help others navigate their challenges. Hope and Personal Accountability: A recurring theme across episodes is the importance of maintaining hope during difficult times. Resilience often begins when individuals embrace accountability and take ownership of their journey toward recovery. Phrases like "embrace the suck" and "own it" encapsulate this mindset. Building Support Systems: Peer support emerged as a vital factor in recovery. Simple gestures, such as a text or call, can foster optimism. Neil highlighted the CareTrack program in Delta, which ensures ongoing connection with officers on leave to prevent feelings of isolation. Proactive Resilience Strategies: Establishing wellness plans early in careers, including routines for fitness, financial literacy, and mental health, can prepare individuals for future challenges. Neil emphasized integrating resilience training into regular shifts, advocating for "a little, a lot"—small, consistent doses of training on mental health and personal wellness. Navigating Identity and Transition: Losing the professional identity tied to being a first responder can cause significant mental health struggles. Supporting officers through these transitions, especially those who cannot return to active duty, is essential. Lessons from the Field: Recovery is not linear; it’s filled with ups and downs. Small, incremental goals can lead to significant progress. Spending time in nature, focusing on fitness, and maintaining routines can aid recovery. Addressing Suicide in Law Enforcement: Neil discussed the complexities of addressing suicides within agencies, balancing recognition for service with preventing a contagion effect. He stressed the need for open conversations, support for families, and proactive mental health programs. Work-Life Harmony: Neil challenged the notion of work-life balance, advocating instead for harmonizing priorities and being present in the moment—whether at work or home—without guilt. Takeaways for First Responders and Leaders: Resilience is a Skill: It can be cultivated through habits, support systems, and proactive planning. Peer Support Matters: Strong connections, both formal and informal, are critical for recovery. Small Steps Build Momentum: Daily rituals and incremental progress are more sustainable than lofty, overwhelming goals. Leadership's Role: Leaders must foster open conversations about mental health, provide ongoing support for families, and prioritize wellness throughout careers. Self-Compassion: Officers must learn to be kind to themselves and allow grace during difficult times. Connect with Neil Dubord at neildubord.com or on Linkedin /episode/index/show/benddontbreak/id/34452490

Jail Break 12/10/2024

Brain Health For First Responders 12/03/2024

Episode #76 Jessica Flores 11/26/2024

Bend Don't Break Episode #75 Brian Murphy 11/19/2024

Episode #74 with Jim Nixon 11/12/2024

The Thin Ice of Policing 11/05/2024

Forgotten Civilians 10/29/2024

The Scars of Policing 10/22/2024

Redemption - From Charges to Chief 10/15/2024

Beneath the Badge Episode #69 10/04/2024

Blue Grit Wellness: Balancing Duty, Family and Health 07/23/2024

Blue Grit Wellness: Balancing Duty, Family and Health Summary In this conversation, police commander Eric Tung discusses the importance of wellness and resilience in law enforcement. He shares his personal journey of recognizing the need to address sleep issues, chronic stress, and mental health in order to optimize his performance as a police officer. Eric also talks about the role of his podcast, Blue Grit Radio, in promoting wellness practices and building bridges between law enforcement and the community. The conversation covers topics such as organizational culture, leadership support, and the importance of living outside the 'blue world' to maintain a balanced perspective. The conversation revolves around the themes of personal responsibility, setting boundaries, and the importance of seeking support. Eric and Chief Dubord discuss the challenges of work-life balance and the importance of setting boundaries to prioritize different aspects of life. Eric also highlights the significance of talking to someone, whether it's a psychologist or a trusted friend, to navigate personal and professional challenges. Takeaways Recognizing the importance of wellness and resilience in law enforcement is crucial for optimizing performance and maintaining mental health. Living outside the 'blue world' and engaging with the community helps maintain a balanced perspective and prevents the formation of an echo chamber. Organizational culture and leadership support play a significant role in promoting wellness practices and removing barriers to self-care. Regular blood work and monitoring personal health are individual responsibilities that contribute to overall well-being. Building bridges between law enforcement and the community through open dialogue and transparency helps foster trust and understanding. Take ownership of your well-being and make choices that align with your values and purpose. Set boundaries to prioritize different aspects of life and maintain work-life balance. Seek support from psychologists or trusted friends to navigate personal and professional challenges. Embrace positivity and optimism to contribute to a positive culture in the law enforcement profession. Chapters 00:00 Recognizing the Need for Wellness and Resilience 06:29 Hitting Walls and Figuring Things Out 09:24 Promoting Wellness Practices and Removing Stigma 13:58 The Journey to Resilience: Not One Singular Event 19:16 Living Outside the 'Blue World' 22:11 Individual Responsibility for Health and Well-being 23:11 Taking Ownership of Your Well-being 25:24 Setting Boundaries for Work-Life Balance 29:15 The Power of Seeking Support 37:13 Embracing Positivity in Law Enforcement /episode/index/show/benddontbreak/id/32245137

Blue Grit Wellness: Balancing Duty, Family and Health 07/23/2024

Blue Grit Wellness: Balancing Duty, Family and Health Watch the video episode on YouTube: Summary In this conversation, police commander Eric Tung discusses the importance of wellness and resilience in law enforcement. He shares his personal journey of recognizing the need to address sleep issues, chronic stress, and mental health in order to optimize his performance as a police officer. Eric also talks about the role of his podcast, Blue Grit Radio, in promoting wellness practices and building bridges between law enforcement and the community. The conversation covers topics such as organizational culture, leadership support, and the importance of living outside the 'blue world' to maintain a balanced perspective. The conversation revolves around the themes of personal responsibility, setting boundaries, and the importance of seeking support. Eric and Chief Dubord discuss the challenges of work-life balance and the importance of setting boundaries to prioritize different aspects of life. Eric also highlights the significance of talking to someone, whether it's a psychologist or a trusted friend, to navigate personal and professional challenges. Takeaways Recognizing the importance of wellness and resilience in law enforcement is crucial for optimizing performance and maintaining mental health. Living outside the 'blue world' and engaging with the community helps maintain a balanced perspective and prevents the formation of an echo chamber. Organizational culture and leadership support play a significant role in promoting wellness practices and removing barriers to self-care. Regular blood work and monitoring personal health are individual responsibilities that contribute to overall well-being. Building bridges between law enforcement and the community through open dialogue and transparency helps foster trust and understanding. Take ownership of your well-being and make choices that align with your values and purpose. Set boundaries to prioritize different aspects of life and maintain work-life balance. Seek support from psychologists or trusted friends to navigate personal and professional challenges. Embrace positivity and optimism to contribute to a positive culture in the law enforcement profession. Chapters 00:00 Recognizing the Need for Wellness and Resilience 06:29 Hitting Walls and Figuring Things Out 09:24 Promoting Wellness Practices and Removing Stigma 13:58 The Journey to Resilience: Not One Singular Event 19:16 Living Outside the 'Blue World' 22:11 Individual Responsibility for Health and Well-being 23:11 Taking Ownership of Your Well-being 25:24 Setting Boundaries for Work-Life Balance 29:15 The Power of Seeking Support 37:13 Embracing Positivity in Law Enforcement /episode/index/show/benddontbreak/id/32244967

Behind the Shield: A Journey from Undercover Ops to Mental Health Advocate 07/09/2024

Behind the Shield: A Journey from Undercover Ops to Mental Health Advocate Watch the video episode on YouTube: Summary Bob Stenhouse, a former undercover police officer, shares his journey from undercover work to being a whistleblower and the impact it had on his mental health. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining balance, avoiding cynicism, and surrounding oneself with good people. Stenhouse also highlights the need for wise leadership in policing, with a focus on emotional intelligence, psychological safety, and accountability. He encourages young officers to be trauma-informed, compassionate, and empathetic. Stenhouse's story serves as a reminder that taking responsibility for one's mental health and creating a respectful workplace are crucial for the well-being of police officers. Takeaways Maintain balance, avoid cynicism, and surround yourself with good people in order to thrive in the police profession. Wise leadership is crucial in creating a respectful and psychologically safe workplace for police officers. Take responsibility for your own mental health and well-being, and seek therapy if needed. Be trauma-informed, compassionate, and empathetic towards others, including those who may be engaging in negative behavior. Create a workplace culture that supports and holds officers accountable while also providing support for mental health challenges. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 03:01 Bob Stenhouse's Career and Transition to Corporate Investigations 05:19 From Small Town Drug Enforcement to International Undercover Work 06:42 Bob Stenhouse's Experience in the Counterintelligence Team 08:36 Working on Project KISS and Dealing with the Hell's Angels 11:43 The Whistleblowing Incident and Career Trajectory Change 23:26 The Impact of Workplace Culture on Stress Levels 25:43 Finding a New Identity and Pursuing Personal Growth 31:07 Advice for Young People Entering the Police Profession 33:31 Creating a Respectful and Psychologically Safe Workplace /episode/index/show/benddontbreak/id/32052407

Behind the Shield: A Journey from Undercover Ops to Mental Health Advocate 07/09/2024

Behind the Shield: A Journey from Undercover Ops to Mental Health Advocate Summary Bob Stenhouse, a former undercover police officer, shares his journey from undercover work to being a whistleblower and the impact it had on his mental health. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining balance, avoiding cynicism, and surrounding oneself with good people. Stenhouse also highlights the need for wise leadership in policing, with a focus on emotional intelligence, psychological safety, and accountability. He encourages young officers to be trauma-informed, compassionate, and empathetic. Stenhouse's story serves as a reminder that taking responsibility for one's mental health and creating a respectful workplace are crucial for the well-being of police officers. Takeaways Maintain balance, avoid cynicism, and surround yourself with good people in order to thrive in the police profession. Wise leadership is crucial in creating a respectful and psychologically safe workplace for police officers. Take responsibility for your own mental health and well-being, and seek therapy if needed. Be trauma-informed, compassionate, and empathetic towards others, including those who may be engaging in negative behavior. Create a workplace culture that supports and holds officers accountable while also providing support for mental health challenges. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 03:01 Bob Stenhouse's Career and Transition to Corporate Investigations 05:19 From Small Town Drug Enforcement to International Undercover Work 06:42 Bob Stenhouse's Experience in the Counterintelligence Team 08:36 Working on Project KISS and Dealing with the Hell's Angels 11:43 The Whistleblowing Incident and Career Trajectory Change 23:26 The Impact of Workplace Culture on Stress Levels 25:43 Finding a New Identity and Pursuing Personal Growth 31:07 Advice for Young People Entering the Police Profession 33:31 Creating a Respectful and Psychologically Safe Workplace /episode/index/show/benddontbreak/id/32052332

Surviving The Unthinkable: A Journey of Healing and Hope 06/25/2024

Post-Traumatic Growth and Survival Through Support 06/11/2024

Overcoming Tragedy Through Mental Health Advocacy 05/21/2024

Overcoming Tragedy Through Mental Health Advocacy Summary Jodie Baulkham, a survivor of the loss of her police officer husband, shares her journey of overcoming grief and supporting another first responder with PTSD. She emphasizes the importance of personal growth, effective communication, and mental health awareness. Jody encourages listeners to reflect on their own lives, assess their feelings, and set goals for the future. She shares her story through her memoir and invites others to share their stories as well. Takeaways Personal growth and resilience are essential in overcoming grief and trauma. Effective communication and emotional intelligence are key in supporting relationships with those experiencing mental health challenges. Seeking help early and often, and being open about mental health, can save lives. Reflection and goal-setting are important for personal growth and motivation. Sharing stories and connecting with others can provide support and inspiration. Chapters 00:00 Overcoming Grief and Supporting First Responders 29:14 The Power of Personal Growth and Resilience 31:34 Effective Communication and Emotional Intelligence 34:23 Seeking Help and Raising Mental Health Awareness 39:41 Reflection and Goal-Setting for Personal Growth 40:06 The Impact of Sharing Stories and Connecting with Others Guest Biography Jodie is a licensed teacher, professional coach and certified Leader Character practitioner who focuses on cultivating character, igniting passion, and fortifying resilience for herself and others. She is a leadership and mental health curriculum design specialist, trainer and advocate. Jodie has trained and coached thousands in the first responder community and beyond. She recently released her memoir Choosing My Tomorrow: Surviving Murder, Navigating Mental Health, and Harnessing the Power of Choice which reached best-seller status on Amazon. She lives in Alberta with her husband, daughter, and mini goldendoodle. /episode/index/show/benddontbreak/id/31360412

Overcoming Tragedy Through Mental Health Advocacy 05/21/2024

Overcoming Tragedy Through Mental Health Advocacy Watch the video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/dxpq4bkQeI0 Summary Jodie Baulkham, a survivor of the loss of her police officer husband, shares her journey of overcoming grief and supporting another first responder with PTSD. She emphasizes the importance of personal growth, effective communication, and mental health awareness. Jody encourages listeners to reflect on their own lives, assess their feelings, and set goals for the future. She shares her story through her memoir and invites others to share their stories as well. Takeaways Personal growth and resilience are essential in overcoming grief and trauma. Effective communication and emotional intelligence are key in supporting relationships with those experiencing mental health challenges. Seeking help early and often, and being open about mental health, can save lives. Reflection and goal-setting are important for personal growth and motivation. Sharing stories and connecting with others can provide support and inspiration. Chapters 00:00 Overcoming Grief and Supporting First Responders 29:14 The Power of Personal Growth and Resilience 31:34 Effective Communication and Emotional Intelligence 34:23 Seeking Help and Raising Mental Health Awareness 39:41 Reflection and Goal-Setting for Personal Growth 40:06 The Impact of Sharing Stories and Connecting with Others Guest Biography Jodie is a licensed teacher, professional coach and certified Leader Character practitioner who focuses on cultivating character, igniting passion, and fortifying resilience for herself and others. She is a leadership and mental health curriculum design specialist, trainer and advocate. Jodie has trained and coached thousands in the first responder community and beyond. She recently released her memoir Choosing My Tomorrow: Surviving Murder, Navigating Mental Health, and Harnessing the Power of Choice which reached best-seller status on Amazon. She lives in Alberta with her husband, daughter, and mini goldendoodle. /episode/index/show/benddontbreak/id/31360377

Breaking The Silence: Transforming Mental Health in Law Enforcement 05/07/2024

Breaking The Silence: Transforming Mental Health in Law Enforcement Summary In this conversation, Mark Bouchard discusses the importance of addressing mental health and stigma within the police force. He shares his personal experience with psychological injury and emphasizes the need for proactive action and individual responsibility in maintaining mental health. Bouchard also highlights the concept of suicide by cop and the challenges faced by officers in making lethal force decisions. He calls for a shift in the understanding and treatment of officers involved in such incidents. In this conversation, the Delta Police Department discusses the importance of educating the public and themselves about the realities of police work. They also explore the psychological challenges faced by officers, including the decision to use lethal force and the impact of suicide by cop incidents. The conversation highlights the need for organizations to address mental health and wellness within their ranks, including providing resources and support for officers. The guests emphasize the importance of creating a culture that reduces stigma around mental health and encourages officers to seek help when needed. Takeaways Police officers need to be taught about their own psychology and humanity to better handle the challenges they face and keep the public safe. Individuals should take proactive action and be active participants in their own mental health. The stigma surrounding mental health in law enforcement needs to be reduced to encourage officers to seek help. Lethal force decisions are complex and officers need more training and support to navigate these situations. Society needs to differentiate between non-culpable homicides and murder in cases of suicide by cop. Educating the public and police officers about the realities of police work can lead to better outcomes in incidents and help officers process traumatic experiences. The decision to use lethal force is a difficult one for officers, but they can find solace in knowing they are keeping their community safe. Incident commanders and leaders need to be prepared to make critical decisions, and training in instant command and critical thinking is crucial. Addressing mental health and wellness within police organizations is essential, as officers face higher rates of mental health disorders and suicide. Creating a culture that reduces stigma around mental health and encourages officers to seek help is important for their well-being and the well-being of the organization. Officers can develop healthy coping strategies and find meaning in their experiences to promote post-traumatic growth and resilience. Chapters 00:00 Addressing Mental Health and Stigma 11:41 Proactive Action and Individual Responsibility 24:31 Reducing Stigma and Providing Support 25:26 Educating the Public and Police Officers 28:04 The Weight of the Decision: Using Lethal Force 28:31 Preparing Incident Commanders 29:24 Addressing Mental Health and Wellness 35:38 Reducing Stigma and Encouraging Help-Seeking 43:19 Finding Meaning and Promoting Resilience Guest Biography Mark Bouchard grew up in Delta, and joined the Delta Police Department as a police officer in 2007, after a few years as a volunteer in the Delta Police Reserve Program. Mark worked primarily in patrol and on the Emergency Response Team, prior to his departure in 2020 for the RCMP. Since then, Mark has continued to work patrol and Emergency Response, until his recent promotion into the RCMP'S National Tactical Medicine Program. He has also completed a master's degree in leadership with a focus on police culture and the impacts on police officer mental health. Mark has combined his experiences and research into a book that he published on Amazon in 2023. It is called Setting My Sights on Stigma: Thoughts From an Injured Mind, where he shares what he learned as he recovered from his PTSD diagnosis, with a goal to help other people. /episode/index/show/benddontbreak/id/31165977

Breaking The Silence: Transforming Mental Health in Law Enforcement 05/07/2024

Breaking The Silence: Transforming Mental Health in Law Enforcement Watch the video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ojl-vQVxWrA Summary In this conversation, Mark Bouchard discusses the importance of addressing mental health and stigma within the police force. He shares his personal experience with psychological injury and emphasizes the need for proactive action and individual responsibility in maintaining mental health. Bouchard also highlights the concept of suicide by cop and the challenges faced by officers in making lethal force decisions. He calls for a shift in the understanding and treatment of officers involved in such incidents. In this conversation, the Delta Police Department discusses the importance of educating the public and themselves about the realities of police work. They also explore the psychological challenges faced by officers, including the decision to use lethal force and the impact of suicide by cop incidents. The conversation highlights the need for organizations to address mental health and wellness within their ranks, including providing resources and support for officers. The guests emphasize the importance of creating a culture that reduces stigma around mental health and encourages officers to seek help when needed. Takeaways Police officers need to be taught about their own psychology and humanity to better handle the challenges they face and keep the public safe. Individuals should take proactive action and be active participants in their own mental health. The stigma surrounding mental health in law enforcement needs to be reduced to encourage officers to seek help. Lethal force decisions are complex and officers need more training and support to navigate these situations. Society needs to differentiate between non-culpable homicides and murder in cases of suicide by cop. Educating the public and police officers about the realities of police work can lead to better outcomes in incidents and help officers process traumatic experiences. The decision to use lethal force is a difficult one for officers, but they can find solace in knowing they are keeping their community safe. Incident commanders and leaders need to be prepared to make critical decisions, and training in instant command and critical thinking is crucial. Addressing mental health and wellness within police organizations is essential, as officers face higher rates of mental health disorders and suicide. Creating a culture that reduces stigma around mental health and encourages officers to seek help is important for their well-being and the well-being of the organization. Officers can develop healthy coping strategies and find meaning in their experiences to promote post-traumatic growth and resilience. Chapters 00:00 Addressing Mental Health and Stigma 11:41 Proactive Action and Individual Responsibility 24:31 Reducing Stigma and Providing Support 25:26 Educating the Public and Police Officers 28:04 The Weight of the Decision: Using Lethal Force 28:31 Preparing Incident Commanders 29:24 Addressing Mental Health and Wellness 35:38 Reducing Stigma and Encouraging Help-Seeking 43:19 Finding Meaning and Promoting Resilience Guest Biography Mark Bouchard grew up in Delta, and joined the Delta Police Department as a police officer in 2007, after a few years as a volunteer in the Delta Police Reserve Program. Mark worked primarily in patrol and on the Emergency Response Team, prior to his departure in 2020 for the RCMP. Since then, Mark has continued to work patrol and Emergency Response, until his recent promotion into the RCMP'S National Tactical Medicine Program. He has also completed a master's degree in leadership with a focus on police culture and the impacts on police officer mental health. Mark has combined his experiences and research into a book that he published on Amazon in 2023. It is called Setting My Sights on Stigma: Thoughts From an Injured Mind, where he shares what he learned as he recovered from his PTSD diagnosis, with a goal to help other people. /episode/index/show/benddontbreak/id/31163108

Resilience and Strength: Navigating Through Grief 04/23/2024

The Transcendental Power of Meditation for First Responders 04/09/2024

Bend Don't Break

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