In this conversation with Jason Monteiro, a police officer with 24 years of experience we discuss various aspects of law enforcement, including the challenges of hiring new officers, the toll the job takes on officers' physical and mental well-being, and the importance of staying physically fit. Jason shares some of his funniest and most difficult experiences on the job and offers advice for new recruits and officers nearing retirement. He also talks about his passion for helping officers stay fit through his initiative, Blue Kevlar Fitness.

Takeaways

• Physical fitness is crucial for police officers to handle the physical demands of the job.
• Compassion, listening, and staying ahead of the times are important lessons for officers to learn.
• Officers should take the time to make wise decisions and seek help when needed.
• Blue Kevlar Fitness is an initiative aimed at helping officers stay physically fit.

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Tim Martin, founder of 10-7 Fishing, discusses the importance of fishing as a way for first responders to decompress and support mental health. He shares how 10-7 Fishing started as a fun Instagram page for law enforcement officers who enjoy fishing and evolved into a platform to raise funds for mental health initiatives. Tim emphasizes the need for first responders to seek help beyond recreational activities and highlights the importance of talking to a culturally competent therapist. He also discusses the challenges of law enforcement, such as the increasing leniency towards certain crimes and the need for better mental health support within the profession. In this conversation, the host and guest discuss various topics related to financial resilience, honesty, self-care, and the importance of having a life outside of one's career. They also touch on the guest's experience being featured on a TV show and the role of faith in resilience. The conversation emphasizes the need to invest in physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. The guest shares his mission with 10-7 Fishing and his goal to provide resiliency trips for first responders. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of balance and resilience in both personal and professional life.

Takeaways:

• Fishing can be a powerful tool for first responders to decompress and support their mental health.
• It is important for first responders to seek help beyond recreational activities and consider talking to a culturally competent therapist.
• New officers should be honest, take care of themselves, and practice good financial resilience.
• Veteran officers should also prioritize self-care and make necessary changes to improve their mental and financial well-being.
• Investing in physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being is essential for overall resilience.
• Faith can play a significant role in resilience and coping with the challenges of a career in law enforcement.

IG:@10_7fishing

10-7 Fishing Website

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Summary

In this episode, Kimberly Ingram, a certified first responder therapist, discusses the importance of cultural competency when working with first responders. She emphasizes the need for therapists to understand the unique challenges and experiences of first responders and to provide a safe and supportive environment for them. Kimberly also highlights the role of faith in her work and how it has helped her navigate the difficulties of being a law enforcement spouse. Additionally, she shares information about the organization How to Love Our Cops, which focuses on supporting and empowering law enforcement spouses.

Takeaways

• Cultural competency is crucial in therapy for first responders, as therapists need to understand the unique stressors and complications that come with being a first responder.
• Many first responders are hesitant to seek therapy due to fears of being diagnosed or labeled, so it's important for therapists to create a safe and non-judgmental environment.
• Faith can play a significant role in providing comfort and support for both therapists and their clients in the first responder community.
• How 2 Love Our Cops is an organization that focuses on educating, empowering, and equipping law enforcement spouses to thrive in their relationships and families.

Wellspring Mental Health Group

Wellspring Mental Health Group-IG

Kim Ingram-LinkedIn

How 2 Love Our Cops

How 2 Love Our Cops-IG

How 2 Love Our Cops-Home Watch Conference

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