Bend Don't Break

Watch our video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/VWYOjcfSfb4 Summary Constable Peggy MacConnell shares her experience of losing her husband in a tragic accident and how she coped with the grief and trauma. She emphasizes the importance of being your own advocate and doing what feels right for you. Peggy found support from the RCMP and her family, and she prioritized her physical fitness and mental well-being. She returned to work and embraced a routine to maintain a sense of normalcy. Peggy's resilience and positive outlook have helped her navigate through the challenges and continue to live a fulfilling life. Takeaways Be your own advocate and do what feels right for you Surround yourself with a strong support network Prioritize your physical fitness and mental well-being Embrace routine to maintain a sense of normalcy Maintain a positive outlook and take control of your own situation Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 08:13 The Organ Donation Process 14:43 Support from Family and the RCMP 26:13 Overcoming Judgment and Staying Resilient 35:44 Returning to Work and Helping Others

Summary In this episode of the Bend Don't Break Podcast, retired police chief Les Sylven and Garry Foster discuss the benefits of transcendental meditation (TM) for first responders. They explain that TM is a simple and easy practice that can help reduce stress and build resilience. They share research studies that show the effectiveness of TM in reducing PTSD symptoms and improving overall well-being. The conversation emphasizes the proactive nature of TM, highlighting its ability to enhance concentration, conflict management, and relationships. They encourage listeners to explore TM as a tool for self-care and mental wellness. Takeaways Taking care of our minds is just as important as taking care of our bodies, especially for first responders who experience significant trauma. Transcendental Meditation (TM) is a simple and effective practice for reducing stress and building resilience. Research has shown that TM is effective in reducing PTSD symptoms and improving overall well-being. TM is a proactive measure that can improve job performance, relationships, and overall quality of life. Anyone can learn TM, and it can be practiced anywhere, making it a convenient tool for self-care. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:45 The Importance of Taking Care of Our Minds 06:08 Transcendental Meditation: A Simple Tool for Stress Reduction 08:59 Research on Transcendental Meditation and its Benefits 10:52 TM as a Proactive Measure for First Responders 24:02 Improving Job Performance and Relationships through TM Would you like to learn more about Transcendental Meditation? Contact Garry Foster at garryfoster108@gmail.com.

Summary In this episode, we remember Ryan Masales, also known as Chopper, who was an undercover operator for the Delta Police Department. Ryan battled brain cancer and shared his inspiring story. He discussed his early career in law enforcement, his involvement in Project Starboard, and his diagnosis of glioblastoma. Despite the challenges he faced, Ryan remained resilient and focused on spending time with his family. He emphasized the importance of realism and cherishing every moment. This conversation with Chopper and his wife Estelize covers a range of topics, including the importance of always having a plan, the role of physical fitness in their lives, Chopper's passion for tattooing, leaving a legacy, managing critical incidents, the power of love and support, finding hope in the face of adversity, the impact of a mentor, and the lessons they have learned. Takeaways Ryan Masales, also known as Chopper, was an undercover operator for the Delta Police Department. He battled brain cancer and shared his inspiring story of resilience. Ryan discussed his early career in law enforcement, his involvement in Project Starboard, and his diagnosis of glioblastoma. He emphasized the importance of realism and cherishing every moment. Always have a plan, whether it's in policing or in life. Physical fitness is important for both mental and physical well-being. Find a passion that allows you to leave a lasting impact. Support from loved ones and the community is crucial in difficult times. Hope is a powerful motivator in the face of adversity. Mentors play a significant role in shaping our lives. Focus on the present and make the most of each day. Chapters 00:00 Remembering Ryan Masales 03:56 Chopper's Early Career 10:19 Project Starboard 29:16 Glioblastoma and Realism 41:36 Managing the Condition 42:04 Always Have a Plan 44:08 The Importance of Working Out 46:19 The Art of Tattooing 50:19 Leaving a Legacy 56:50 Managing Critical Incidents 59:37 The Power of Love and Support 01:05:03 Finding Hope in the Face of Adversity 01:06:03 The Impact of a Mentor 01:19:21 Lessons Learned

In this episode of Bend Don't Break, Courtney Luxen from the Calgary Police Service shares her journey of overcoming functional neurological disorder (FND) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). She initially joined the police service with a background in sports medicine but fell in love with the idea of becoming a cop after seeing a female officer in action. Courtney experienced various physical symptoms, including uncontrollable blinking, breathing difficulties, and loss of motor control. After a long and challenging recovery process, she returned to work in a part-time capacity and now advocates for mental health and wellness within the police service. Takeaways Seeking therapy and regular check-ins with a mental health professional are essential for everyone, especially those in high-stress professions like policing. Maintaining physical health, practicing gratitude, and incorporating breath work and meditation can contribute to overall well-being and resilience. Don't judge others and avoid comparing yourself to others. Each person's journey is unique, and it's important to focus on your own progress. Recovery from mental health challenges is a lifelong journey, and it's crucial to have a supportive network of friends, family, and colleagues. Never lose hope. Even in the darkest times, there is always the possibility of a better tomorrow. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:12 Becoming a Police Officer 04:05 Getting Sick and Seeking Help 08:25 Diagnosis and Treatment 10:49 Recovery and Rehabilitation 27:00 Returning to Work and Advocating for Mental Health 30:29 Lessons Learned and Advice 34:45 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

In this episode, Chief Neil Dubord speaks with Detective Greg Linkert from the Calgary Police Service, who shares his journey of resilience in the face of adversity after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). Greg discusses his career in law enforcement, including his time in specialty sections such as the tactical team and bomb unit. He recounts the symptoms he experienced before his MS diagnosis and the challenges he faced in accepting his condition. Greg emphasizes the importance of communication, support systems, and maintaining a positive mindset. He also shares his involvement in the MS walk and peer support programs. Takeaways Appreciate the simple things in life and find joy in everyday experiences. Adapt and accept the challenges that come with a diagnosis or disability. Maintain open communication with your support system and seek help when needed. Choose to define your own story and focus on the possibilities rather than dwelling on the past. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:15 Appreciating Simple Things 00:30 Specialty Sections in Police Career 01:25 Greg Linkert's Career Journey 03:10 Diagnosis of MS 04:08 Living with MS 05:28 Refereeing and Skating Issues 06:26 Delayed Diagnosis of MS 07:24 First Real Incident of MS Symptoms 08:55 Continued Symptoms and Denial 09:23 Seeking Medical Help 10:21 36-Hour Adventure at the ER 11:16 MS Diagnosis Confirmed 12:44 Medical Professionals Involved 13:42 Physiatrist and Coping Skills 14:38 Peer Support and MS Walk 16:05 Fear and Adapting to MS 18:05 Teaching Recruit Class and Body Worn Camera 20:04 Life Now and Physical Limitations 22:30 Walking Around the Island 23:56 Support Systems 25:23 Importance of Communication 26:53 Choosing Your Story 28:19 Peer Support and Giving Back 28:55 Message to Others 30:25 Summary and Gratitude

In this episode, Mitch Hardington from the Calgary Police Service shares his experience with PTSD and his journey to recovery. Mitch recounts a traumatic call where he found a man who had cut his own throat and the impact it had on Mitch's mental health. He emphasizes the importance of seeking help and therapy, including the use of EMDR therapy. Mitch also discusses the concept of post-traumatic growth and how he has found a new identity outside of being a police officer. He shares his reintegration strategy for returning to work and encourages others to live authentically and take control of their own lives. Takeaways: Seeking help and therapy is crucial for dealing with PTSD and other mental health challenges. EMDR therapy can be effective in processing traumatic experiences and reducing emotional attachment to the memory. Post-traumatic growth is possible, and individuals can use their experiences as an opportunity for personal growth and self-improvement. Reintegration into work should be done gradually and with a plan in place to ensure a successful transition. Living authentically and finding an identity outside of work is important for overall well-being and resilience. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Community Engagement 01:01 Mitch's Experience with PTSD 03:10 Starting Career in Law Enforcement 04:08 The Traumatic Call 08:17 Saving the Man's Life 10:31 Impact on Mental Health 12:03 Seeking Help and Therapy 13:58 EMDR Therapy 21:50 Post-Traumatic Growth 25:56 Reintegration into Work 30:56 Living Authentically and Taking Control 34:19 Final Words and Gratitude Looking for More Episodes? You can find more episodes of Bend Don’t Break on iTunes, Google Play, and most other major podcasting platforms. Connect with the Delta Police Department: Follow the Delta Police on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Visit their website at DeltaPolice.ca.

This week, Chief Neil Dubord speaks with Nanaimo RCMP Constable Mason Dirnback. Mason was the first officer on scene of a dispute in a car between a man and a woman. Upon Mason's arrival, the man became fixated on Mason, not breaking eye contact, and advancing on him from the very start. And then the man produced a pistol. The encounter turned fatal for the man. Mason talks about the incident, the subsequent Independent Investigations Office investigation, and strategies he has employed to help him get through the psychological weight of taking the life of another person. Looking for More Episodes? You can find more episodes of Bend Don’t Break on iTunes, Google Play, and most other major podcasting platforms. Connect with the Delta Police Department: Follow the Delta Police on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Visit their website at DeltaPolice.ca.

RCMP Sergeant Greg Toogood was at home enjoying an evening with friends and family when his chocolate labrador Abby started uncharacteristically barking outside. He went to the back door of his house to check on the dog. Greg, silhouetted in the door, was ambushed from afar and shot causing significant, permanent damage to his right arm. On this episode of Bend Don't Break, Greg joins Chief Neil Dubord to talk about how the shooting affected him, and how he found the courage to come back both physically and mentally. Join Chief Dubord and Sgt. Toogood as Greg shares the power of his story of resilience. First responders are on the front lines daily, keeping our communities safe and facing some of the most dangerous situations; there is no doubt that the mental health toll of the job is significant. In recent years, the first responder community has worked hard to reduce the stigma and increase awareness, fostering an overall culture of wellness. The power of healing through story is the goal of Bend Don't Break, listed as one of the Top Policing & Law Enforcement Podcasts. Follow and like Bend Don't Break on your podcast platform of choice.

Join Chief Neil Dubord as he speaks with Greater Sudbury Police Service Constable James Jefferson. James was involved in a critical incident that had a profound impact on how he managed and functioned. Until he was ready to acknowledge this impact and do something to help himself, he spiraled to his rock bottom. But when James did acknowledge the impact, he started a road to recovery for himself, and now uses his experiences and outlook to help others with the GSPS. Looking for More Episodes? You can find more episodes of Bend Don’t Break on iTunes, Google Play, and most other major podcasting platforms. Connect with the Delta Police Department: Follow the Delta Police on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Visit their website at DeltaPolice.ca

Join Chief Neil Dubord as he speaks with psychologist Dr. Mark Davies. Mark has recently joined the Delta Police Department and works with our wellness section to help our officers be mentally healthy. A psychologist on staff is not a completely new thing, but it goes a long way to show how committed the DPD is to employee wellness. Mark believes organizational culture can reduce barriers and contribute to healthy mental well-being. In speaking about a study conducted at Harvard, Dr. Davies states, “Unit cohesion in the military was a negative predictor of PTSD by a 20% variance.” Essentially, having the proper mechanisms in place before trauma occurs, can reduce the chance and severity of trauma, if and when trauma does happen. Mark emphasizes the value of organizational culture, why he chose to work with first responders, and how his own lived experience is now helping him contribute to the DPD’s environment to help its officers. “Mental health isn’t about preventing bad, it’s about being really great.” Looking for More Episodes? You can find more episodes of Bend Don’t Break on iTunes, Google Play, and most other major podcasting platforms. Connect with the Delta Police Department: Follow the Delta Police on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Visit their website at DeltaPolice.ca

This week, Chief Neil Dubord is joined by Sande Higgins, an RCMP member who bravely shares her unique story of survival, followed by trauma. In this episode, Chief Dubord speaks with Sande who, several years ago, boarded a plane five days before getting married to the love of her life, to moments later finding herself as a survivor. Sande describes the traumatizing experience and how it accompanied her in silence for many years, painfully but away from the sight of her close ones. Sande has remained resilient in the face of all the different obstacles she had to overcome and shares her story to encourage anyone suffering to seek help. Listen to this inspiring story! Key Takeaways: [2:53] Sande shares her background and how she became part of the RCMP. [5:19] Sande expands on her experience in residential schools. [6:45] Sande describes the mounted community. [8:12] Each member had their own home at the mounted community. [9:25] When the incident occurred, Sande was days away from her wedding. She talks about her relationship with her partner back then. [12:46] Sande boarded the plane, and nothing seemed odd. [15:17] What happened on July 4th? [20:24] What is Telecom? [21:18] Sande stops and tries to process what just happened. [23:25] Sande talks about her injuries. [25:45] Sande made sure everyone was all right. [28:00] Sande got married five days after the incident. [28:41] Sande returned to work pretty fast; she explained what that looked like. [30:23] Before getting back to work, Sande consulted a psychologist. [33:25] Sande had a son; she is convinced he saved her; shifting the focus was the key to starting healing. [38:15] Sande confesses having thoughts of dying. [39:11] Sande’s doctor told her she had PTSD years after the event. [40:55] Sande receives a treatment plan for her PTSD. [43:23] Sande talks about where she is on her journey today. [45:18] How does Sande see a change in perspectives in the RCMP regarding mental health? [47:33] Sande discusses survivor’s guilt. [48:58] It is never too late to ask for help. Mentioned in this Episode: RCMP Royal Canadian Mounted Police Looking for More Episodes? You can find more episodes of Bend Don’t Break on iTunes, Google Play, and most other major podcasting platforms. Connect with the Delta Police Department: Follow the Delta Police on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Visit their website at DeltaPolice.ca

This week, Chief Neil Dubord is joined by Ryan Moore of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. In this episode, Chief Dubord speaks with Ryan about his struggle with PTSD and how he ended up helping others due to his own healing journey. Ryan has indigenous roots and received his formal name when he was young, he was called Big Uncle, a name they hadn’t given for a while in his culture, which represents somebody who looks after people, a perfect name that foresaw his destiny. In his role helping others, Ryan experienced extreme situations, which over time disturbed his peace, work, and relationships. Ryan turned his suffering into an opportunity to find himself again and to learn how to take care of his own mental health, which today he applies in helping others struggling with PTSD. Get inspired by Ryan’s brave journey, if he could, so do you! Key Takeaways: [1:25] Ryan talks about himself, his career, and how he got to join the RCMP. [3:30] Ryan is also an indigenous member. [5:04] Ryan shares his experience with PTSD. [10:45] Ryan finally realizes he is suffering from PTSD (even though it was obvious to his closest ones). [12:46] Ryan recalls the origins of PTSD in his life. [21:34] The training that officers don’t receive. [22:21] Ryan discusses his life as a veteran. [27:43] Ryan and Chied Dubord address that moment when an officer realizes he/she needs time off because something is not correct. [31:57] Ryan wants to get involved in Veteran’s Affairs by making a presentation, but things get complicated, and Ryan loses control. [37:56] Ryan finds himself at home with no road map of what to do next; he shares how he found his way during that time. [40:36] Ryan gets introduced to a particular treatment for people struggling with PTSD. [44:07] Ryan was hesitant about the program; he did not think it was meant for him since he didn’t feel ready to retire. [46:26] Ryan was sent home, which was the beginning of his recovery. [48:26] Today, Ryan helps others on their journeys toward healing from PTSD. [54:50] Ryan shares how he connects with other service members in need. [56:12] Ryan’s first day back at work felt like a million dollars. Mentioned in this Episode: K9 Coffee Co. Looking for More Episodes? You can find more episodes of Bend Don’t Break on iTunes, Google Play, and most other major podcasting platforms. Connect with the Delta Police Department: Follow the Delta Police on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Visit their website at DeltaPolice.ca

Chief Neil Dubord is accompanied this week by Dr. Kendra Devor, who dives deep into her efforts regarding the Wellness Program designed to assist first responders in overcoming the repercussions of critical incidents they often endure in service. In this episode, Chief Dubord speaks with Kendra Devor Psy. D., a Licensed Clinical Psychologist out of Orange County, California. Her professional experience has focused on treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, grief, and loss. Dr. Devor has extensive experience working with first responders and their family members. Key Takeaways: [1:45] Kendra introduces herself. [4:10] Kendra talks about her certifications. [5:14] Kendra shares about a particular client who has gone through several traumatic incidents. [8:26] EMDR is an amazing therapeutic modality designed to treat trauma, Kendra explains why. [10:39] Kendra continues talking about this specific client who got to therapy after his third critical incident; she addresses the two first traumatic events. [14:49] Now, this deputy went through two more critical incidents. [16:01] Less than one year later, this particular deputy is stronger and happier than ever. [17:45] Kendra shares the best tools for assisting first responders. [20:03] Kendra expresses her gratitude and honor for being trusted by cops. [20:53] Kendra talks about the Wellness Program. [24:01] Kendra addresses the invaluable importance of training. [25:03] Physical wellness is also involved in the Wellness Program. [27:41] Kendra shares her thoughts on the mental health stigma. [30:22] Kendra advises: Go to therapy before you feel like you need it, and if you don’t like the clinician, it is not that therapy isn't for you; just seek another therapist. Mentioned in this Episode: K9 Coffee Co. Looking for More Episodes? You can find more episodes of Bend Don’t Break on iTunes, Google Play, and most other major podcasting platforms. Connect with the Delta Police Department: Follow the Delta Police on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Visit their website at DeltaPolice.ca.

This week, Chief Neil Dubord is joined by Kyle Stubbs, who is a member of the RCMP and was formerly in the Surrey Detachment. In this episode, Chief Dubord speaks with Kyle about how his life took a sudden shift in 2018 with his premature daughter's birth. Kyle openly shares how his entire family was affected by this and especially the impact that the vulnerable health condition of his baby girl had on him as a father, a husband, and a cop. Kyle shares how he struggled to find the support he needed but, fortunately, ran into a therapeutic group that changed his life forever. This transformation brought along a new purpose to him: Nine8, a Health and Wellness Training Program for first responders Kyle created. Key Takeaways: [1:13] Kyle introduces himself. [1:51] How did the frequent moving affect Kyle and his family? [2:38] Kyle takes us back to 2018, when his younger daughter was born. [5:25] Kyle talks about the delivery of her premature baby girl. [7:31] Kyle ignored how this situation would impact his entire family. [8:42] They had to fly back to the Children’s Hospital soon after arriving home. [10:21] Kyle was told by the doctors her baby, Matilda, was going to go through surgery and that there was a possibility that she wouldn’t survive it. [11:11] Matilda fully recovered; today she is a typical 5-year-old! [11:33] Kyle talks about the pressure he placed on himself for not going to work during that period when Matilda was recovering. [13:30] How did Kyle deal with the stress? [14:34] Kyle became numb and disconnected from his family. [15:14] Kyle tried therapy without luck, but he found a group that gave him the support he needed. [16:50] Kyle’s least favorite word: Should. [19:56] How did Kyle find the therapeutic group? How long did it take him to find it? [22:14] By assisting the group, Kyle realized he was not alone. [23:04] Kyle began a journey that provided even more meaning to his life and self-discovery. [25:16] Kyle created Nine8, a 10-week program for first responders. [26:18] Kyle shares some interesting statistics about under and over-40-year-old men and their meaningful connections. [28:36] You are not alone. [30:18] Chief Dubord highlights some of the most essential messages brought by Kyle to today’s episode. Mentioned in this Episode: Find more about Kyle Stubbs Looking for More Episodes? You can find more episodes of Bend Don’t Break on iTunes, Google Play, and most other major podcasting platforms. Connect with the Delta Police Department: Follow the Delta Police on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Visit their website at DeltaPolice.ca.

This week, Chief Neil Dubord is joined by Jonny Morris, CEO of the British Columbia chapter of the Canadian Mental Health Association, to discuss the event that took place on January 23rd, 2023, when the Delta Police Department received a report of an individual who was outside the safety rail on the southbound side of the Alex Fraser Bridge. In this episode, Chief Dubord speaks with Jonny Morris, who reached out during the crisis faced on that bridge and extended his support through a long negotiation process that lasted 8 hours and also caused the closing of the bridge, which created discontent from the general population which was affected by this security measure. The overall decision to close the bridge was complex but guided by the belief in the importance of preserving life, which first responders and committed officers achieved, saving this man’s life and successfully assisting an individual with a mental health crisis. Key Takeaways: [4:15] Jonny Morris, CEO of the British Columbia chapter of the Canadian Mental Health Association, joins Chief Dubord. [7:13] Jonny talks about his role and how he advocates for mental health. [9:44] Jonny shares the successes accomplished and the services the Canadian Mental Health Association gives. [13:35] Care to Speak and Care for Care Giver and their impact on stress management teams and first responders. [16:33] Jonny talks about building psychologically safe environments and their work on preventive care. [19:58] Jonny speaks of the Study in Blue and Gray, a report with many recommendations in cases of people confronting a mental health emergency. [23:54] Jonny described the importance of creating a psychologically safe workplace. [32:40] Why is it so difficult for mental fitness to be on the same footing as physical health? [39:08] Jonny expresses his gratitude. Mentioned in this Episode: Canadian Mental Health Association Learn more about 13 Factors: Addressing Mental Health in the Workplace Anxiety Canada Call the crisis line: 3-10-6789 Looking for More Episodes? You can find more episodes of Bend Don’t Break on iTunes, Google Play, and most other major podcasting platforms. Connect with the Delta Police Department: Follow the Delta Police on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Visit their website at DeltaPolice.ca.

This week, Chief Neil Dubord is joined by Grayson Hawkings and Joel Thirsk from the Delta Police Department. In this episode, Chief Dubord speaks with Grayson and Joel about their intervention in a case that had an unexpected turn and how they handled a complex and uncertain incident in the Ferry Terminal, displaying a magnificent team effort. Both Grayson and Joel share the impact the process that followed the event had on them since they were not able to talk to anyone about the incident for many months. They also speak of the strategies and tools they used to keep their psychological strength and clarity. Key Takeaways: [1:43] Grayson shares about himself [2:07] Joel talks about how he joined the Delta Police Department. [3:17] Reflection on a previous call involving Grayson and Joel. Four years ago, Joel and Grayson got a peculiar call about a child stuck in mud. [4:09] Introduction of crisis call. Radio clip of the police communicating during the incident at the ferry terminal. [7:50] Grayson talks about that call. [13:05] Grayson had to run after the man that was driving the taxi. [13:36] Joel shares what he knew about what was happening. [14:39] Grayson and Joel were at the moment working by themselves, each in a one-person unit. [14:55] Grayson explains the yelling in the radio clip. [16:33] Joel shares how he got to support Grayson. [18:30] Grayson finds out the man has a knife. [20:55] Grayson talks about what happened after the man starts to harm himself.. [23:40] From de-escalation to applying first aid. [24:40] Grayson distances himself from the scene to catch his breath. [26:09] Joel shares the events after the man harmed himself and all the questions he had in his mind at the moment. [28:12] Grayson returned to the office, and anxiety started to kick in. [29:46] Grayson and Joel discuss the impact of being unable to speak with anyone about what happened. [32:08] Grayson shares how upsetting it was for his belt to be taken from him. [32:50] Joel did not sleep well after the event. [35:34] How was it like to get back to work? [36:55] Grayson and Joel did not know how long the process would be. [37:50] They could speak to no one (not even the psychologist or teammates) [40:57] Joel and Grayson discuss their strategies to continue working and staying positive. [44:01] Months turned into years, what did Joel and Grayson do over that period of time? [45:54] Eighteen months later, they have to talk about the incident. How fresh was it in their minds? [47:42] There is a need to understand the process. [49:45] Social connections are crucially important inside and outside of the police. [51:42] Did they do anything to try to stop the event from repeating itself in their minds? [54:09] Would there have been any advantage if they were allowed to tell the story sooner? [55:13] Joel grew up in a police family. [56:45] Chief Dubord summarizes the advice that Joel and Grayson provided. Mentioned in this Episode: K9 Coffee Co. Looking for More Episodes? You can find more episodes of Bend Don’t Break on iTunes, Google Play, and most other major podcasting platforms. Connect with the Delta Police Department: Follow the Delta Police on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Visit their website at DeltaPolice.ca.

This week, Chief Neil Dubord is joined by Todd Mason from the Victoria Police Department. In this episode, Chief Dubord speaks with Todd about two tragic incidents that changed his career and affected him deeply, impacting his physical and mental health profoundly. Todd boldly shares the struggles he endured being diagnosed with PTSD, major depression and anxiety and how he regained control of his life and has his PTSD in remission. Listen to Todd’s inspiring story of transformation, resilience, and perseverance. Key Takeaways: [1:51] In September of 2021 Todd was a negotiator with the Victoria Police Department, he shares a critical incident he experienced on September 15th. [6:58] Todd took a week off after the shooting. [8:11] Todd talks about the events that happened on September 27th. [13:27] How fast did the car hit Todd? [13:50] Todd talks about the several injuries resulting from the incident. [15:23] How did Tom get to the hospital? [17:37] What happened after Todd got released from the hospital? [21:15] Todd talks about the impact this incident has on his psyche. [25:30] Medication helped Todd a lot. [25:55] Todd speaks of his wife’s unconditional support. [28:54] Todd confesses that he did not know what was happening to him at the time. [31:23] Todd heard about a program dedicated to helping people with PTSD. [34:09] Treatment at Ravensview felt like a full-time job to Todd. [35:04] Todd was out for three months, and he talks about what was different when he came back. [36:00] Depression is a daily battle. [36:43] What is the prognosis for Todd? [37:55] Was Which of the physical or mental injuries was the hardest to get over with? [39:12] What happened to the person that tried to run Todd down? [42:31] Todd shares some of the things that worked for him. Mentioned in this Episode: Homewood Ravensview Looking for More Episodes? You can find more episodes of Bend Don’t Break on iTunes, Google Play, and most other major podcasting platforms. Connect with the Delta Police Department: Follow the Delta Police on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram and Chief Neil Dubord on Linkedin Visit their website at DeltaPolice.ca.

This week Chief Neil Dubord is joined by Laurie White. Laurie graduated from the RCMP training academy, ‘depot’, in 1996 and was posted to Kitimat, B.C. Less than three years into her career she was shot in the leg while executing a search warrant at the home of a sex offender. Laurie shares her incredible story of losing her leg, her physical and mental recovery and her heroic return to work as the first police officer in Canada to return to full, unrestricted policing duties, with an artificial leg. Laurie and Chief Dubord discuss how the injury sent her to a dark place mentally, and how she struggled with constantly being told ‘you are lucky to be alive’, while at the same time feeling incredibly angry. Laurie went on to have a full career and write a book about her experience after her retirement in 2020. (Link Book – 10-33 Officer Down) https://www.amazon.ca/10-33-Officer-Down-Steps-Back/dp/1039115748 This is a story you won’t want to miss.

In this episode, Chief Neil Dubord speaks with retired LAPD Chief Psychologist Dr. Kevin Jablonski. Kevin discusses how, in 25 years with the LAPD, he observed policing distort and skew how police officers view their world - becoming increasingly negative. Kevin also challenges police officers to explore their own world view and challenge it, noting that while black and white thinking might serve a purpose on the job, life outside of policing has many more shades of grey. Key Takeaways: [2:35] Kevin talks about his background and how he became a psychologist working with police officers. [5:58] Kevin learned in a very short time that his prejudgements and stereotypes about law enforcement officers were not valid. [6:30] Kevin became the Chief Police Psychologist at LAPD. [8:35] Kevin talks about the stereotypes regarding policing. [13:33] Kevin shares an example from a particular consultation a police officer brought to him. [19:11] How can our worldview be balanced between awareness and hypervigilance? [22:47] Black-and-white thinking is still really predominant and it is true that on the job this kind of thinking can be life-saving. [26:51] It is crucially important to connect with a psychologist before a major event happens. [27:13] How does a psychologist help clients to get perspective around their worldview? [30:32] Kevin emphasizes the importance of open communication. [32:04] Kevin talks about organizational stress. [36:20] Kevin shares a piece of advice to expand a constricted worldview. Mentioned in this Episode: Looking for More Episodes? You can find more episodes of Bend Don’t Break on iTunes, Google Play, and most other major podcasting platforms. Connect with the Delta Police Department: Follow the Delta Police on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Visit their website at DeltaPolice.ca.