This episode of the Critical Aspects Podcast focuses on addressing the challenges faced by law enforcement officers (LEOs) and the potential impact of trauma on their well-being. The host discusses the high-risk nature of the profession, with over 23,000 LEOs killed in the line of duty since the establishment of law enforcement. LEOs are frequently exposed to critical incidents and traumatic events, which can overwhelm their coping mechanisms. The episode explores the concept of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in law enforcement and the prevalence of PTSD symptoms among LEOs. The host introduces cognitive processing therapy (CPT) as a potential approach to address the negative beliefs and hypervigilance associated with trauma exposure. The integration of Socratic dialogue and biblical principles is proposed as a means to challenge and reframe these beliefs, fostering resilience and a healthier perception of traumatic events.TakeawaysLaw enforcement officers (LEOs) face numerous challenges and are at a greater risk of being exposed to critical incidents and traumatic events.Cognitive processing therapy (CPT) is a potential approach to address the negative beliefs and hypervigilance associated with trauma exposure in LEOs.The integration of Socratic dialogue and biblical principles can help challenge and reframe negative beliefs, fostering resilience and a healthier perception of traumatic events.Building resilience in LEOs involves focusing on their relationship with Christ, being purpose-driven, and facing adversity with faith.Support the Show.Critical Aspects Website IG: @critical_aspectsIG: @pastorvernin: @Dr. Vernon Phillips

Yitzhak Almog, a retired senior police officer from the Israel National Police, discusses his career and the unique challenges faced by law enforcement in Israel. He highlights the importance of understanding counterterrorism and the complex dynamics of the region. The conversation with Yitzhak Almog covered various themes, including the challenges faced by the Israeli National Police, the importance of resilience, and the role of faith in his career. The conversation also touched on the events of October 7th and the impact it had on the police force and the country. Yitzhak shared his personal strategies for staying grounded and mentally healthy in a high-stress job. Overall, the conversation highlighted the dedication and sacrifice of the Israeli police and the need for support and resources to ensure their well-being.TakeawaysLaw enforcement in Israel faces unique challenges due to the country's location in the Middle East and its diverse population.Resilience is crucial for police officers, and it is important to provide support and resources to help them cope with the stresses of their job.Faith can play a significant role in providing strength and guidance in difficult times.The events of October 7th had a profound impact on the Israeli National Police, and the resilience of the officers and the community is commendable.Taking care of one's mental health is essential, and strategies such as seeking professional help, engaging in physical activity, and spending time with loved ones can be beneficial.Building strong relationships and collaboration with other law enforcement agencies can lead to valuable knowledge sharing and support.Support the Show.Critical Aspects Website IG: @critical_aspectsIG: @pastorvernin: @Dr. Vernon Phillips

This week we speak with retired ATF deputy assistant director, Peter Forcelli, who shares his background in law enforcement and his experiences with the Operation Fast and Furious scandal. Forcelli emphasizes the importance of self-care for law enforcement officers and encourages them to prioritize their well-being. Forcelli discusses the frustration he felt during the Fast and Furious scandal and his decision to blow the whistle on the misconduct. He also highlights the qualities of good leadership and the need for accountability in the field. Forcelli concludes by discussing his decision to write a book about his experiences. TakeawaysLaw enforcement officers should prioritize self-care and seek help when needed.Leadership in law enforcement should prioritize the well-being of their officers and hold them accountable.Maintaining accountability and standing up for oneself is crucial in any profession.Faith and spirituality can play a significant role in providing a sense of purpose and support in challenging times.If you are interested in Peter's book or connecting with him please see the information below:The Deadly PathPeter Forcelli-LinkedinSupport the Show.Critical Aspects Website IG: @critical_aspectsIG: @pastorvernin: @Dr. Vernon Phillips

In this episode, I reflect on the new year and the importance of making realistic changes in various aspects of life. I share my own personal experience with managing stress and the benefits of lifestyle changes. I also emphasizes the need for consistency and gradual progress when implementing new habits. In addition, I highlight the significance of addressing mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. The episode concludes with encouragement to embrace life changes with purpose and find peace in faith.TakeawaysMake realistic changes and start with achievable goals.Consistency and gradual progress are key to sustaining lifestyle changes.Addressing mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being is essential for overall health.Seeking help and utilizing resources can support personal growth and change.Finding joy and peace in faith can provide strength and resilience.Support the Show.Critical Aspects Website IG: @critical_aspectsIG: @pastorvernin: @Dr. Vernon Phillips

In this episode, I discuss the importance of self-care and resilience from a biblical perspective. I  share my personal experience of neglecting self-care and the impact it had on my well-being. I emphasizes the need to prioritize self-care in all aspects of life, including the spiritual dimension. I explore biblical examples of resilience, such as Abraham, Joseph, Job, King David, and Jesus, highlighting their internal focus, purpose-driven mindset, and ability to face adversity. I conclude by encouraging listeners to invest in their spiritual self-care and rely on their faith to navigate life's challenges.TakeawaysSelf-care is essential for maintaining overall well-being and building resilience.The concept of self-care is not new and has been emphasized in scripture since the beginning.Resilience is the ability to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity, and it is rooted in an internal focus, purpose-driven mindset, and the willingness to face challenges.Faith plays a crucial role in resilience, providing purpose, hope, and the strength to endure.Support the Show.Critical Aspects Website IG: @critical_aspectsIG: @pastorvernin: @Dr. Vernon Phillips

In this episode, we talk with John Jones. John is a veteran and retired LEO who has worked in a number of different assignments. Please tune in to hear John talk about law enforcement, stress, and marriage. Support the Show.Critical Aspects Website IG: @critical_aspectsIG: @pastorvernin: @Dr. Vernon Phillips

In this episode, we talk with Tim Rutledge. Tim has an extensive history working in law enforcement and is the lead instructor for LEAPS (Law Enforcement Alliance for Peer Support. Please tune in to hear Tim talk about peer support, the purpose, and the mission behind LEAPS. If you want to know more about peer support, this episode is for you. If you would like more information about LEAPS or need someone to talk to, check out the information below:LEAPS-WebsiteTim Rutledge-(601)955-0055Vern Phillips-(352)789-9077Support the Show.Critical Aspects Website IG: @critical_aspectsIG: @pastorvernin: @Dr. Vernon Phillips

In this episode, we talk with Rick Lechleitner. Rick is an officer and the founder of Blue Badge Coffee Company. Please tune in to hear Rick talk about critical incidents, purpose, and the mission behind his coffee. If you enjoy authentic discussion and coffee, this episode is for you. If you would like more information about Blue Badge Coffee Company, check out the information below:Blue Badge Coffee Co.-WebsiteBlue Badge Coffee Co.-IGSupport the Show.Critical Aspects Website IG: @critical_aspectsIG: @pastorvernin: @Dr. Vernon Phillips

Please tune in to hear Lieutenant Sutton share some crucial life-changing moments in his career and how he processed them. Lieutenant Sutton is the founder of The Wounded Blue, an author, key speaker, and advocate for wounded officers. If you would like more information about Lieutenant Sutton and The Wounded Blue, check out the information below:Lieutenant Randy Sutton-IGLieutenant Randy Sutton-FBLieutenant Randy Sutton-inThe Wounded Blue-WebsiteThe Wounded Blue-IGThe Wounded Blue-FBThe Wounded Blue-inSupport the Show.Critical Aspects Website IG: @critical_aspectsIG: @pastorvernin: @Dr. Vernon Phillips

In this episode, we talk with Lieutenant Eric McCants. Lieutenant McCants works for a Sheriff's Office overseeing their SOD (Special Operations Division). Please tune in to hear Lieutenant McCants share key points from his career, leadership tips, and how to take care of yourself while working in the law enforcement profession. If you want to contact Lieutenant McCants, you can follow him on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-mccants-3a3920192/.Support the Show.Critical Aspects Website IG: @critical_aspectsIG: @pastorvernin: @Dr. Vernon Phillips

In this episode, we talk with Kevin Mullins (Wrap Technologies CEO) and Chief Don Delucca on the BolaWrap. The BolaWrap is a remote restraint device designed to help LEOs in various situations. Tune in as we discuss the implementation of the BolaWrap, its overall effectiveness, and law enforcement wellness. Below, you will find more information on the BolaWrap and Wrap Technologies.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wraptechnologiesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/wraptechnologies/Twitter: https://twitter.com/WrapTechIncIG: https://www.instagram.com/wraptechnologies/Support the Show.Critical Aspects Website IG: @critical_aspectsIG: @pastorvernin: @Dr. Vernon Phillips

In this episode, we talk with Kara. Kara is currently a Deputy Sheriff and an advocate of mental wellness. Please tune in to hear Kara share key points from her career, along with some advice she offers to other LEOs to help them survive and thrive. If you want to contact Kara, you can reach her at ravenconsultingkc@gmail.com and on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kclarkl41/.Potential trigger warning: Kara discusses an officer-involved shooting. Side Note: the book we briefly discussed is The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van Der Kolk.Support the Show.Critical Aspects Website IG: @critical_aspectsIG: @pastorvernin: @Dr. Vernon Phillips

In this episode, we talk with Officer Cyndi. Tune in to hear Officer Cyndi share about her journey of becoming a law enforcement officer, the struggles of being a mother and officer, losing her partner to suicide, and how she maintains her overall well-being. Support the Show.Critical Aspects Website IG: @critical_aspectsIG: @pastorvernin: @Dr. Vernon Phillips

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Katherine Kuhlman, a Police & Public Safety Psychologist, and Kuhlman Psychology & Consulting owner. Tune in to hear Dr. Kuhlman discuss how she maintains her overall health and wellness, the trauma officers face, and the misconceptions with "fit for duty" evaluations. If you are interested in speaking with Dr. Kulhman or inviting her to speak to your agency, you can find her contact information below. Dr. Katherine Kuhlmankatherine@drkuhlman.comwww.drkuhlman.comSupport the Show.Critical Aspects Website IG: @critical_aspectsIG: @pastorvernin: @Dr. Vernon Phillips

In this episode, co-hosted with Tim from 10_7 Fishing, we talk with Sgt. Michael Surgue (Ret.), best-selling author of Relentless Courage: Winning the Battle Against Frontline Trauma. Listen as Michael shares his military and law enforcement history, his journey to writing Relentless Courage, and other crucial topics such as law enforcement suicide. Check out the links below to connect with 10_7 Fishing, Micheal, or order your copy of Relentless Courage.10-7 FishingSgt. Michael Surgue (Ret.)Relentless Courage: Winning the Battle Against Frontline TraumaSupport the Show.Critical Aspects Website IG: @critical_aspectsIG: @pastorvernin: @Dr. Vernon Phillips

After a short break, we are back with guest Chief David Ogden. Chief Ogden shares insight from his extensive Law Enforcement career on maintaining integrity while you serve, the Got Your Six Ministry, and the importance of having a purpose in your life. In addition, Chief Ogden openly talks about his faith and how that has helped to shape the leader and mentor he is today. Tune in and listen to Chief David Ogden.Got Your Six Got Your Six Movie Chief David OgdenSupport the Show.Critical Aspects Website IG: @critical_aspectsIG: @pastorvernin: @Dr. Vernon Phillips

In this episode, we talk with Sammy, a former Law Enforcement Officer now working for a large retail coffee company and the Non-Profit Cop to Corporate. Tune in to hear us talk about maintaining a balanced life, suicide in law enforcement, transitioning from law enforcement to the corporate or private sector, and just some general advice for law enforcement professionals. Cop to Corporate-LinkedinCop to Corporate WebsiteSammy-Linkedin Support the Show.Critical Aspects Website IG: @critical_aspectsIG: @pastorvernin: @Dr. Vernon Phillips

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Kathryn Hamel, best-selling author of Body, Mind, & Badge: Strategies for Navigating Trauma & Resilience in Law Enforcement.  Dr. Hamel is the Chief Executive Officer at the Hecht Trauma Institute. Before transitioning into non-profit leadership, she worked in higher education and served her community for nearly 25 years as a law-enforcement professional for two mid-sized municipal police departments. She has worked as a police lieutenant, police sergeant, special victim’s unit detective, public information officer, and task force officer.Tune in to hear the advice offered by Dr. Hamel.You can find Dr. Hamel's book in the link below:Body, Mind, & BadgeSupport the Show.Critical Aspects Website IG: @critical_aspectsIG: @pastorvernin: @Dr. Vernon Phillips

In this episode, our guest, Military Chaplain Mike Slaughter, talks about the importance of self-care, an accountability partner (aka “workout buddy”), purpose, and faith. Please tune in and listen to the information Mike shares that transcends the line between law enforcement and the military.Potential trigger warning: Mike talks about a suicide on one of the ships he was stationed on and its impact on him and the rest of the crew.Support the Show.Critical Aspects Website IG: @critical_aspectsIG: @pastorvernin: @Dr. Vernon Phillips

In this episode, we are joined by Mike Baldwin. Mike is a retired law enforcement detective and is currently the V.P. of Operations for Grossman on Truth. Please tune in to hear Mike share key points from his career, along with some advice he offers to other LEOs to help them survive and thrive. If you want more information on Grossman on Truth, you can reach Mike at mike@grossmanontruth.com or visit grossmanontruth.com.Potential trigger warning: Mike shares an emotional case involving the death of a child. Support the Show.Critical Aspects Website IG: @critical_aspectsIG: @pastorvernin: @Dr. Vernon Phillips