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In this episode, Major Robert Scott Oikle shares his extensive military career, reflecting on the influences that shaped his journey from a young man in Salmon Arm, British Columbia, to a decorated leader in the Canadian Armed Forces. He discusses the emotional toll of deployment, the challenges of transitioning back to civilian life, and the evolution of mental health support within the military. Major Euchel emphasizes the importance of communication and leadership in combat settings, as well as the therapeutic benefits of writing about his experiences. He also addresses the significance of Remembrance Day and the need to honor all veterans, while contemplating the future of military engagement in a complex global landscape. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Major Robert Scott Euchel 01:31 Early Influences and Military Journey 04:59 The Impact of the Gulf War on Military Aspirations 06:52 Transitioning Home: The Toll of Deployment 10:07 Recognizing Mental Health Challenges 13:25 Mental Health Support in the Canadian Armed Forces 19:16 Leadership and Support for Struggling Soldiers 22:19 Effective Communication in Combat Leadership 30:13 The Journey to Writing 'The Last Rotation' 35:20 The Therapeutic Power of Journaling 39:51 Coping with Memories and PTSD 44:37 The Military's Unique Burden 49:14 Remembering All Veterans 52:21 Reflections on Global Conflict and Peacekeeping Major Oikle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_last_rotation/ Visit Amazon to pick up a copy of his book:  https://www.amazon.ca/Last-Rotation-Afghanistan-War-Diary/dp/1069310808 Thank you for listening! For more Team Ten Eight content, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn!

In this episode, host Christian Lane interviews retired Deputy Chief Constable Jennifer Hyland, who shares her journey through the policing system in Canada. Hyland discusses the challenges of balancing duty with personal well-being, the impact of trauma on first responders, and the importance of empathy and authenticity in leadership. She reflects on her experiences in a male-dominated field, the sacrifices made early in her career, and the need for cultural change within policing. The conversation highlights the significance of mental health, vulnerability, and the evolving landscape of law enforcement, particularly regarding the role of women in leadership positions.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Tightrope Journey 02:43 The Metaphor of the Tightrope 05:23 Processing Trauma in Policing 08:23 The Impact of Isolation in Policing 11:03 Navigating a Male-Dominated Culture 13:35 Sacrificing Compassion for Acceptance 16:23 The Cost of Wearing a Mask 19:24 Empathy as a Strength in Policing 21:55 Integrity and Speaking Up 24:34 The Role of Self-Awareness 27:20 Compassion in the Face of Tragedy 40:08 Understanding Human Moments in Policing 45:14 Transforming Mental Health Conversations in Law Enforcement 51:01 The Importance of Vulnerability and Authenticity 56:43 The Future of Policing: Challenges and Changes  Links Tightrope: Balancing Duty with Courage and Conviction by Jennifer Hyland  Amazon Canada Jennifer Hyland on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jennifer-hylandReferenced Authors & Experts: Dr. Gabor Maté – Trauma and Authenticity Dr. Jody Carrington – Connection and ResilienceSimon Sinek – Leadership and Purpose Thank you for listening! For more Team Ten Eight content, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn!

In this episode, host Christian Lane speaks with Captain Willow Bloomquist of the Dashwood Volunteer Fire Department. Willow shares her journey from various jobs to becoming a firefighter, her experiences in wildfire prevention, and the importance of community engagement. The conversation delves into the challenges and responsibilities of volunteer firefighting, including training, liability, and the dynamics of leading a volunteer team. Willow emphasizes the significance of building strong relationships within the community and the fire department, especially during critical incidents like the Wesley Ridge fire. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Willow Bloomquist and Dashwood Fire Department 08:28 Willow's Journey to Firefighting 13:28 Understanding Danger in Firefighting 15:15 Reading Smoke: A Critical Skill 19:50 Incident Command Decision Making 23:24 Liability in Volunteer Fire Departments 29:33 Attracting and Retaining Volunteer Firefighters 43:53 Wesley Ridge Fire Experience 54:31 Community Engagement and Support  To learn more or connect with the Dashwood Volunteer Fire Department visit https://dashwoodvfd.com/ or contact Capt. Bloomquist directly at [email protected].  Thank you for listening! For more Team Ten Eight content, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn!

In this episode, Christian Lane interviews Heather Edward, a seasoned paramedic leader who has transitioned from frontline work to leadership roles and now healthcare philanthropy. Heather discusses her early influences, the challenges of leadership, the importance of mental health, and her current research on paramedic leaders' mental health. She emphasizes the need for open dialogue, self-reflection, and the importance of supportive peer networks in navigating the complexities of leadership in paramedicine. Takeaways Heather's early family influences shaped her understanding of mental health.Transitioning from frontline work to leadership requires courage and support.Women often need encouragement to step into leadership roles.Disruptive leadership can challenge the status quo for positive change.Self-reflection is crucial for effective leadership.Admitting mistakes is a sign of strong leadership.Conflict in leadership can be navigated with open dialogue.Finding the right environment is essential for personal growth.Leaders often feel alone in their responsibilities.Organizational culture significantly impacts leaders' mental health.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Heather Edward 01:42 Heather's Early Life and Influences 03:57 Transitioning from Frontline to Leadership 06:40 The Role of Women in Leadership 09:04 Disrupting the Status Quo in Leadership 11:32 Navigating Leadership Challenges 15:38 The Importance of Self-Reflection 17:49 Admitting Mistakes as a Leader 18:58 Dealing with Conflict in Leadership 24:26 Finding the Right Environment for Growth 25:58 The Value of Being Uncomfortable 28:44 Feeling Alone in Leadership 30:41 Building a Supportive Peer Network 32:29 Balancing Frontline Responsibilities with Leadership 36:54 The Impact of Organizational Culture on Mental Health 39:21 Researching Mental Health in Paramedic Leadership 44:34 Anticipated Themes from the Research 49:32 The Future of Paramedic Leadership and Mental Health 57:15 Conclusion and Next Steps 🔗 Links Heather Edward on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-edward-669a14270/Paramedic Association of Canada: paramedic.caResources Mentioned:The Working Mind (Mental Health Commission of Canada) Bell Let’s Talk – Mental Health Initiatives Wounded Warriors Canada – Trauma-informed programs for first responders and veteransThank you for listening! For more Team Ten Eight content, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn!

The Honourable Senator Baltej Singh Dhillon, a trailblazer whose courage reshaped the face of Canadian law enforcement and whose leadership continues to drive inclusion, justice, and empathy across our country. Senator Dhillon made history in 1991 when he became the first turbaned Sikh RCMP officer, following a national controversy that tested Canada’s commitment to diversity and religious freedom. What began as an act of faith became a turning point in our national story — one that continues to inspire generations of Canadians to serve authentically and without compromise. In this conversation, we explore: The personal and public cost of challenging tradition and standing in truthLessons from 25 years of service with the RCMP, including leading investigations into organized crime and homicideThe evolving identity of Canadian policing and public serviceThe role of empathy, community, and representation in rebuilding trustHis transition to the Senate of Canada and what true public service means todaySenator Dhillon’s story is not only about breaking barriers — it’s about building bridges between communities, faiths, and institutions, reminding us that courage and compassion are not opposing forces, but necessary partners in the pursuit of justice. Learn More: Senate of Canada Profile: https://sencanada.ca/en/senators/dhillon-baltej-s/Official Instagram:https: https://www.instagram.com/senatorbaltejsdhillon/Canadian Encyclopedia:  https://thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/baltej-dhillon-caseThank you for listening! For more Team Ten Eight content, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn!

Sleep isn’t a luxury — it’s a survival tool. Yet for first responders, veterans, shift workers, and high performers, it’s usually the first thing sacrificed.  On this episode we're joined by Dr. Leah Kaylor — a prescribing psychologist, trauma specialist, and the FBI’s go-to expert on sleep. She blends neuroscience, trauma therapy, and performance psychology to help elite professionals recover, reset, and thrive.  We cover:  Why “I’ll sleep when I’m dead” is one of the most dangerous myths in our cultureHow your brain literally “takes out the trash” every night during sleepThe critical role of REM sleep in trauma processing and emotional regulationSleep avoidance as an unhealthy coping mechanism — and how to break itThe truth about alcohol, shift work, and sleep apnea in first responder populationsCutting-edge treatments like Imagery Rehearsal Therapy for nightmaresPractical strategies you can use tonight to improve your sleep Dr. Kaylor is also the author of If Sleep Were a Drug — a science-backed, no-nonsense guide to unlocking the performance, health, and mental clarity you’re missing when you neglect sleep. 📕 If Sleep Were a Drug (Available now):   Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/If-Sleep-Were-Drug/dp/164687150XDr. Kaylor’s Website: https://www.drleahkahler.com ▶️ Connect with Dr. Leah Kaylor:   Website: https://drleahkaylor.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drleahkaylor/YouTube (Sleep Science & Practical Strategies): https://www.youtube.com/@DrLeahKaylorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drleahkaylor/ 🎧 Listen now and share this episode with someone in your life who needs better rest.   Thank you for listening! For more Team Ten Eight content, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn!

Master Corporal (Ret’d) James Gendron’s story is one of service, sacrifice, and the healing power of music. Over a 29-year career in the Canadian Armed Forces, James performed 63 ramp ceremonies in Afghanistan—solemn farewells for fallen soldiers making their final journey home. Those experiences left deep scars, leading him to put down his bagpipes altogether. Years later, the pipes returned to him in the most unexpected way—culminating in a powerful moment at the 2023 Invictus Games in Düsseldorf, where Prince Harry publicly honoured James for transforming what once haunted him into a source of healing. In this conversation, we explore: James’ path from cadets to 29 years of military serviceThe stark contrast between combat operations in Afghanistan and humanitarian missions in Sri LankaThe emotional toll of ramp ceremonies and the burden of remembranceHow music became both a trigger and a lifelineHis Invictus Games journey, the moment with Prince Harry, and life after serviceJames now serves his community as a volunteer firefighter and continues to share his story to help others navigate trauma, healing, and resilience. Thank you for listening! For more Team Ten Eight content, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn!

This episode of goes deep with Corporal Peter MacDonald, a veteran RCMP officer with nearly 18 years of service across the Lower Mainland of British Columbia. From his early days in frontline policing to the intense files that shaped his career, Peter speaks candidly about the weight of trauma, the moments that nearly broke him, and the path back through therapy, honesty, and support. Today, he serves as a Member Services NCO and a leader in the RCMP’s National Reintegration Program, helping colleagues navigate long-term leave, recovery, and the return to work. We talk about: The reality of witnessing death and the long shadow it can cast.How operational stress injuries develop—and what it takes to process them.Why vulnerability and openness aren’t weakness but strength.The culture shift inside policing around mental health.Strategies for self-care, resilience, and rediscovering identity beyond the badge.This is an honest, powerful conversation about what it means to serve, to struggle, and to find your way back. Guest Contact: Peter can be reached via email at [email protected] or through the Langley RCMP detachment. Thank you for listening! For more Team Ten Eight content, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn!

In this episode, host Christian Lane interviews firefighter, veteran, and founder of Victory Medals, Andrew Siwy, who shares his journey from childhood bullying to military service and firefighting. Andrew discusses the impact of his experiences on his mental health, the significance of self-awareness, and the challenges faced during his deployments in Afghanistan. He reflects on the importance of understanding intent in human interactions and the ethical complexities of military duty, emphasizing the need for compassion and humanity in service roles. In this conversation, Andrew shares his journey from military service to becoming a firefighter, detailing the mental health challenges he faced and the importance of support systems in recovery. He recounts a traumatic incident during the Lapu-Lapu Day Festival and discusses the need for recognition of sacrifices made by first responders. Andrew emphasizes the significance of mental health strategies and the role of community support in navigating trauma.   Chapters  00:00Introduction to Andrew Siwy's Journey  02:52Overcoming Childhood Bullying  05:44Self-Awareness and Reflection  08:09The Impact of 9/11 on Military Aspirations  10:58Joining the Canadian Armed Forces  13:24First Deployment to Afghanistan  21:36Cultural Shock in Kandahar  27:09Second Deployment and Special Forces Experience  35:05The Complexity of Military Ethics  40:36Reflections on Duty and Humanity  44:29Understanding the Military Mindset  45:18The Journey Through Mental Health Challenges  46:10Crisis and Recovery: A Personal Story  52:34The Role of Support Systems in Recovery  55:25Navigating Trauma in First Response  01:00:05Responding to Tragedy: The Lapu-Lapu Day Incident  01:11:32Personal Growth and Mental Health Strategies  01:14:17Honoring Service: The Importance of Recognition  01:20:32Advocating for Civilian Recognition of Sacrifice  keywords military, service, resilience, mental health, bullying, Afghanistan, Canadian Armed Forces, firefighting, leadership, special forces, military mindset, mental health, first responders, crisis recovery, support systems, trauma response, personal growth, service recognition, civilian honors, mental health strategies  Thank you for listening! For more Team Ten Eight content, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn!

In this powerful episode, host Christian Lane sits down with RCMP Sergeant and National Police Federation Board Director Chris Voller to explore the weight police officers carry—on the job, in their hearts, and within the system they serve. Voller reflects on multiple officer-involved shootings during his tenure, his father’s legacy as an officer involved in a tragic 1998 incident, and the human cost of systemic inaction in mental health care.  Chris reads aloud a viral Facebook post he authored—a stark, vulnerable, and honest meditation on policing in a time of crisis. Together, he and Christian unpack the intersection of law enforcement, mental illness, public scrutiny, and systemic breakdowns.  Topics Covered:  Critical incidents in Campbell River, BCThe 1998 shooting of Connie and Ty Jacobs on the Tsuu T'ina NationImpact of media narratives on officer moraleRCMP’s approach to mental health, training & use of forceThe role and limitations of mental health response programs (e.g., CAR 87, CAR 69)The National Police Federation’s wellness advocacyLong-term effects of IIO investigationsSystemic gaps and public expectations of police Relevant Links:   National Police Federation (NPF)The Connie and Ty Jacobs Shooting – CBC ArchivesVancouver's CAR 87/88 Mental Health Car ProgramIIO BC – Independent Investigations OfficeThe Death of Service Dog Gator – CBC NewsConst. Shaelyn Yang remembered – Global News  Connect with Sgt. Voller: @chrisvollerNPF Thank you for listening! For more Team Ten Eight content, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn!

In this powerful and deeply personal conversation, Christian Lane is joined by Carly Ring, a dedicated mental health professional, first responder advocate, and passionate speaker on trauma, healing, and identity. Carly shares her lived experiences as a survivor of childhood trauma, a first responder, and someone who has walked through complex grief, post-traumatic growth, and the transformative journey of self-reclamation.  Together, they explore:  The long tail of unacknowledged trauma and how it shapes our identitiesWhat it means to belong in uniform — and the cost of tying your worth to itCarly’s story of betrayal trauma and how she rebuilt her life from the ground upNavigating moral injury and spiritual crisis in the wake of occupational traumaHow advocacy became a channel for healing, and a call to greater service This episode is a raw, unflinching look at what it means to break — and how, through love, courage, and community, we become something stronger. Links & Resources:  Carly Ring on Instagram: @csrpsychotherapyBC First Responders Mental Health: bcfirstrespondersmentalhealth.com Thank you for listening! For more Team Ten Eight content, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn!

Episode Summary: In this deeply reflective and inspiring episode, host Christian Lane sits down with Dr. Alec Ritchie—an emergency physician, educator, and mountain medicine expert. From the adrenaline-filled peaks of Whistler to the life-saving trenches of North Shore Rescue, Dr. Ritchie shares the personal and professional journey that led him to wilderness medicine. We explore the “Zen of the mountains,” the hidden stressors medical professionals face, how fitness and mindset impact recovery, and the life-saving gaps in wilderness healthcare policy. Alec speaks candidly about purpose, legacy, and the healing power of both nature and connection. What You’ll Learn: Why the outdoors is Dr. Ritchie's ultimate mental health toolkitThe surprising resilience of the human body—and spiritHow emergency physicians navigate stress differentlyWhat it’s really like being part of North Shore RescueThe systemic gap in wilderness medical care—and the legacy Alec is building to fix itResources & Links: 🏔️ North Shore Rescue Documentary – Knowledge Network🩺 UBC Department of Emergency Medicine – Wilderness & Mountain Medicine Working Group📬 Reach Dr. Alec Ritchie: [email protected] you for listening! For more Team Ten Eight content, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn!

Nurses are the backbone of our healthcare system, but what happens when they’re stretched beyond their limits?  In this powerful episode, host Christian Lane sits down with Adriane Gear, President of the BC Nurses Union, to explore the critical challenges facing nurses today—from workplace safety and burnout to the historic win for nurse-patient ratios in BC.  Adriane shares her journey from bedside nursing to frontline advocacy, the mental and physical toll of the profession, and what needs to change to retain and recruit nurses. This conversation is essential listening for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and anyone who values the people who care for us when we need it most.  Topics Covered: ✅ The reality of nurse-patient ratios and how it impacts patient care ✅ How BC became the first jurisdiction in Canada to mandate minimum ratios ✅ The mental health toll of nursing and the fight for PTSD recognition ✅ The truth about nurse salaries and why pay matters for retention ✅ Why nursing isn’t just a job—it’s a deeply personal commitment  📌 Follow & Connect with Adriane Gear:  Instagram: @adrianegear  LinkedIn: Adriane Gear   🔗 Resources Mentioned:  BC Nurses Union: [www.bcnu.org]Nurse-Patient Ratio Studies: [https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8408834/] [https://nursesunions.ca/research/nurse-patient-ratios/] Thank you for listening! For more Team Ten Eight content, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn!

In this episode, Christian interviews Dr. Mike Christian, an expert in critical care and disaster medicine. Dr. Christian shares his experiences responding to major crises, including the SARS outbreak, the Haiti earthquake, and the London Bridge attack. He discusses his journey into medicine, the challenges he faced, and the importance of mental health in first responders. The conversation highlights the resilience of individuals in crisis situations and the critical decision-making required in emergency medicine. This conversation delves into the critical aspects of mental health in emergency medicine, focusing on the interplay between primary and secondary stressors faced by first responders. It emphasizes the importance of organizational culture in mitigating these stressors and highlights the benefits of interprofessional teams in pre-hospital care. The discussion also outlines key strategies for improving mental health support within organizations and the potential for implementing successful models from other countries in North America. Takeaways Dr. Christian emphasizes the importance of stepping forward to help in crises.His experience during the SARS outbreak taught him about emergency preparedness.A thirst for knowledge drove him to pursue a career in medicine.Overcoming initial struggles in education was pivotal for his success.The devastation in Haiti highlighted the need for basic public health measures.Human resilience in disaster zones can be inspiring and eye-opening.Split-second decisions can significantly impact patient outcomes in emergencies.Mental health discussions are crucial in the physician community.Teamwork is essential in emergency response and decision-making.Learning from experiences in the field is vital for growth in medicine. Mental health issues in emergency medicine must be openly discussed.Primary stressors are inherent to the job, but secondary stressors can be managed.Organizational culture significantly impacts employee well-being.Leaders must prioritize addressing secondary stressors to improve outcomes.A learning culture within organizations fosters improvement and adaptability.Caring for both patients and staff is essential for effective service delivery.Interprofessional teams have shown to improve patient survival rates.Understanding the potential of interprofessional collaboration is crucial for change.Overcoming cultural attitudes towards emergency care is necessary for progress.Support systems for first responders can enhance their performance in critical situations.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Mike Christian 05:00 The Journey into Medicine 16:09 Reflections on the Haiti Earthquake 27:30 Mental Health in First Responders 33:06 The Impact of Organizational Culture on Stressors 39:25 Interprofessional Teams in Pre-Hospital Care 50:06 Implementing Change in North American Emergency Services Thank you for listening! For more Team Ten Eight content, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn!

In this episode of the Team Ten Eight podcast, Christian Lane speaks with Canadian army veteran and fitness coach Dave Morrow. Morrow shares his mission to help veterans improve their health and wellness, emphasizing the importance of physical fitness as a foundation for mental health. He discusses his personal journey from struggling with injuries and mental health challenges to becoming a fitness advocate for veterans. The conversation covers various topics, including the significance of community, the impact of childhood experiences on health, and the importance of continuous learning and personal growth. Morrow also shares insights from his books, which aim to provide actionable steps for veterans to improve their lives and health. Takeaways Morrow's mission is to help veterans lose weight and improve health.Physical fitness is crucial for mental well-being.The mind follows the body; physical health impacts mental health.Community and social connections are vital for overall wellness.Reading and continuous learning are essential for personal growth.Shifting perspectives on money can lead to a healthier mindset.Friendships and male bonds provide necessary support and stress relief.Deep conversations enhance understanding and connection.Life's challenges can be viewed as opportunities for growth.Morrow's books offer practical advice for veterans seeking to improve their lives.Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Mission 02:36 The Importance of Physical Health for Veterans 06:51 Mind-Body Connection: The Foundation of Wellness 12:23 Tracking Progress: The 100K Veterans Mission 14:49 Childhood Influences on Health and Fitness 20:37 Maintaining Mental Health: Routines and Connections 30:55 Reading and Lifelong Learning 31:57 The Shift to Entrepreneurship 39:49 Understanding Money and Wealth 41:11 The Depth of Conversation 42:50 The Meaning of Life 51:01 Transforming Anger into Purpose 01:01:08 Books and Personal Growth Visit Dave's Hard to Kill website to learn more about his mission, the Hard To Kill podcast and for information on how to pick up any of his books!  Thank you for listening! For more Team Ten Eight content, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn!