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What happens when the people responsible for protecting a nation's borders find themselves entirely unprotected in their own workplace?  In this episode, host Christian Lane sits down with Danielle Getzie and Josée St-Pierre, two long-serving members of the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA). Together, they share their deeply personal and parallel experiences navigating systemic harassment, discrimination, and a culture of leadership retaliation.  Instead of walking away, Danielle and Josée chose to fight back, founding the Nova Alliance, a survivor-informed, peer-support organization helping current and former CBSA members safely navigate psychological workplace injuries.  Tune in as they pull back the curtain on a grueling bureaucratic system, discuss the impending federal parliamentary study into the CBSA's toxic environment, and explain why true institutional change must start with accountability and human empathy.  [00:00] – Introduction to host Christian Lane and guests Danielle Getzie and Josée St-Pierre.[02:17] – Josée’s career path: From loving land border immigration work to stepping into a leadership role.[05:18] – Moving from silence to advocacy: Josée opens up about surviving sexual harassment, the impact on her mental health, and the systemic retaliation she faced after reporting it.[13:16] – Danielle’s story: Achieving her dream as a detector dog handler and facing immediate targeting after challenging a discriminatory 90-day maternity leave policy.[18:50] – Turning trauma into action: How navigating a daunting, unsupportive grievance process led Danielle to establish the Nova Alliance in 2024.[25:18] – Identifying the pattern: Recognizing that their individual struggles were actually symptoms of a country-wide, systemic playbook.[34:16] – The structural beast: A discussion on whether the suffering is caused by broken bureaucratic processes, poor leadership administration, or both.[40:11] – The Parliamentary Study: Unpacking the federal investigation into systemic discrimination within the CBSA.[43:54] – The Manager's Dilemma: Host Christian Lane shares his perspective as a former manager on how the system forces leaders to suppress empathy to survive.[59:40] – Looking forward: The desired objective for the Nova Alliance and the critical need for third-party accountability.[01:09:14] – How to connect with the Nova Alliance for confidential peer-support.Are you a current or former member of the CBSA who needs help?  Connect with Nova Alliance on Instagram @novaalliance.ca or email them at [email protected]   Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn!

In this episode, Dr. David Zwoboda shares his transformative journey from traditional physical therapy to holistic healing through plant medicine, trauma recovery, and spiritual connection. Discover insights on ayahuasca, microdosing, and the deep connection between mind, body, and spirit. Keywords healing, trauma recovery, ayahuasca, microdosing, spiritual connection, mental health, holistic health, PTSD, personal transformation Key  Topics Transformation from traditional physiotherapy to holistic healingThe role of ayahuasca and plant medicine in trauma recoveryThe impact of microdosing on emotional and spiritual well-being Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dr. David Zwoboda 02:12 Transitioning from Traditional Therapy to Holistic Healing 07:08 Personal Journey to Ayahuasca 11:50 Experiencing Ayahuasca: The First Encounter 19:16 Understanding the Mechanism of Plant Medicine 21:50 The Importance of Environment in Healing 25:21 The Journey to Healing: Starting Point Matters 27:28 Embracing Emotions: The Power of Feeling 30:12 Crying as a Natural Process: Breaking Down Stigmas 33:01 Identity Crisis: Unraveling the Ego Self 35:33 Microdosing and Integration: A New Approach 47:03 Building Community: The Importance of Support 49:55 Connecting Through Shared Experiences: The Canadian Community 50:38 The Importance of Connection and Community 53:56 Spiritual Healing and Personal Growth 58:11 Exploring Spirituality and Personal Beliefs 01:02:16 Experiencing Presence and Gratitude 01:13:00 The Power of Now and Mindfulness    Resources Becoming OM on InstagramPlant Medicine for PTSD PodcastThe Cosmic Serpent by Jeremy NarbyThe Bhagavad Gita by Jack Hawley  Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn!

In this insightful interview, Neida Santini shares her journey from Venezuela to Canada, her public service career, and her perspectives on immigration, community, and mental health. Discover how her experiences shape her approach to service, resilience, and personal growth. Key topics Immigration journey from Venezuela to CanadaPublic service career and its impactCommunity and cultural integrationMental health, vulnerability, and resilienceLeadership and service in governmentChapters 00:00 Introduction to Neida Santini's Journey 04:26 Cultural Transition: From Venezuela to Canada 08:59 Perceptions of Safety and Community in Canada 13:35 The Immigrant Experience: Integration and Identity 18:04 Public Service: A Calling and a Journey 22:17 Navigating Workforce Reductions: A New Perspective 26:38 Finding Opportunity in Adversity 31:09 Legacy: The Impact of Human Connection 36:01 Exploring Life After Death 38:15 The Human Experience and Purpose 40:54 Navigating Life's Challenges 41:59 Cultural Influences on Identity 45:53 Reframing Work and Identity 47:42 Finding Balance in Life 54:21 The Challenge of Vulnerability 01:02:42 Staying Grounded in Uncertain Times  Resources Psychology Today - Neida SantiniOttawa Citizen Opinion Piece by Neida SantiniCanadian Public Service CareersGuest links LinkedIn  Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn!

Join us as we explore the unique experiences of City Councillor and RCAF reservist, Captain Amit GAUR, who shares insights from his deployment to Canadian Forces Station Alert in Nunavut, his service philosophy, and his vision for the future of Parksville. Discover how military discipline, community service, and environmental advocacy intersect in his work. Key Topics Deployment to CFS Alert in NunavutImpact of military discipline on municipal leadershipCommunity service and environmental advocacy in ParksvilleArctic sovereignty and Canada's defense strategyFuture vision for Parksville and local developmentChapters 00:00 Introduction to Amit Gore's Unique Journey 02:29 The Influence of Military Training on Public Service 05:01 Cultural Roots and the Desire to Serve 07:30 Insights from Working with Seniors 09:47 Deployment to CFS Alert: Mission Overview 12:20 On-the-Ground Relationships and Political Climate 14:51 Daily Life and Responsibilities at CFS Alert 17:22 Reflections on the Deployment Experience 21:07 Logistics and Morale in Military Operations 25:32 Leadership Ethos in the Military 26:38 Political Journey and Community Service 28:47 Accomplishments in Local Governance 34:41 Environmental Advocacy and Community Development 35:47 Key Issues Facing Parksville 40:32 Vision for Parksville's Future Resources City of Parksville Official WebsiteCanadian Forces Station Alert  Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn!

Join Christian Lane as he interviews Chris Rutkowski, Canada's leading UFO researcher, about the history, patterns, and scientific investigation of UFO sightings in Canada. Discover insights into government reports, credible witnesses, and the ongoing quest to understand unidentified aerial phenomena. keywords UFO, UAP, Canadian UFO Survey, Sky Canada, Chris Rutkowski, extraterrestrial, military, aviation safety, UFO sightings, government investigation key topics Canadian UFO Survey and sightings dataHistorical case studies including Falcon Lake incidentGovernment and military involvement in UFO investigationsCredibility and analysis of witness reportsScientific approaches and technological tools for UFO detectionChapters 00:00 Introduction to UFO Phenomena in Canada 12:53 The Falcon Lake Incident: A Case Study 25:29 Analyzing UFO Sightings: Patterns and Data 37:41 The Role of Government and Military in UFO Reports 47:43 The Future of UFO Research and Public Interest 27:36 The Role of NAV Canada in UAP Reporting 29:15 The Sky Canada Project: A New Approach 33:17 Defense and Public Interest in UAPs 35:17 Credibility of Witnesses in UAP Reports 40:46 UAPs and Nuclear Technology Correlation 45:16 Personal Beliefs on UAPs and Non-Human Intelligence Resources Canadian UFO SurveySky Canada ProjectLuis Elizondo's book 'Imminent'Guest links LinkedInTwitterFollow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn!

In this episode, host Christian Lane and guest Andrew Siwy discuss the significance of honours and awards in the first responder community. They explore the confusion surrounding different types of medals, the importance of maintaining the integrity of the recognition system, and the cultural significance of medals in Canada. The conversation also touches on the need for timely recognition and the potential introduction of a Sacrifice Medal for first responders. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the importance of genuine appreciation and recognition for those who serve their communities.   Takeaways Honours and awards hold significant meaning in the first responder community.The integrity of the recognition system is crucial for maintaining respect for medals.Cultural items like medals help define a country's identity.Timely recognition is essential for meaningful appreciation.The fire service has a unique culture that supports recognition.Recognition should be genuine and sincere to be impactful.The introduction of a Sacrifice Medal for first responders is a worthy consideration.Community support is vital for recognizing the sacrifices made by first responders.Honours and awards can inspire future generations to serve.The conversation around recognition should include all aspects of service, not just military. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Honours and Awards 01:28 - Understanding the Importance of Recognition 07:19 - The Integrity of the System 12:58 - Cultural Significance of Medals 20:03 - Recognition in the Fire Service 27:41 - The Role of Culture in Recognition 34:07 - The Importance of Timely Recognition 40:48 - The Need for a Sacrifice Medal 51:41 - Closing Thoughts on Recognition  Contact Andrew - [email protected] Christian - [email protected] Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn!

In this conversation, Sachin Latti shares his incredible journey from a law enforcement career to becoming an ultra-endurance athlete and mental health advocate. He discusses his struggles with mental health, the transformative power of running, and how he turned his personal challenges into a mission to raise awareness and funds for mental health initiatives. Sachin emphasizes the importance of community, connection, and introspection in fostering resilience and personal growth. His story is one of grit, purpose, and redemption, inspiring others to take action in their own lives. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Conversational Style 03:44 Sachin's Journey: From Law Enforcement to Endurance Athlete 09:18 Family Dynamics and Immigrant Experience 19:00 Struggles with Mental Health and Career Path 22:54 Turning Point: Addressing Personal Issues 25:16 Reading and Self-Improvement 36:00 Coping Mechanisms and New Beginnings 36:54 Rediscovering Running: A Personal Journey 40:02 Setting Ambitious Goals: Running Across Canada 42:38 Building Connections: The Importance of Community 46:45 Mentorship and Purpose: Finding Direction 51:57 Preparing for the Challenge: Training and Fundraising 56:44 Overcoming Obstacles: The Journey to Sponsorship 58:58 Transformative Experiences: Conversations on the Road 01:04:45 Introspection and Growth: The Role of Reflection 01:10:38 Future Endeavors: Podcasting and Community Support For more information about Sachin and his incredible story visit: https://sachinmotion.ca/ and following him on Instagram @sach.in.motion Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn!

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 Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook, 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 Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook, 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].  Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook, 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 veteransFollow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook, 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-caseFollow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook, 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.   Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook, 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. Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook, 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. Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn!