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Send us a text  You didn’t start this job to hate the people you serve, but resentment doesn’t announce itself; it builds quietly. In this episode, we take a hard look at how public service can twist into public contempt, and how unchecked negativity poisons the mission, the team, and your purpose.  If you're rolling your eyes at every call, mentoring rookies with sarcasm, or finding yourself burned out and bitter, this is your gut check.  You owe it to the public. You owe it to your team. You owe it to yourself.  Time to reset. 

Send us a text  After nearly two decades in public safety, I’m not the man I used to be—and neither are most of us. In this episode, I talk about the unseen impact this work leaves on us, what it’s done to me, and how we can start taking some of that back. 

Send us a text In this episode, I share the raw, unscripted experience of stepping into unknown territory—my first time as a vendor at the 2025 Peer Support Conference in Kansas City. What started with self-doubt turned into a reaffirmation of mission. I talk about meeting incredible people from organizations like Tactical Recovery, The Forge, Copline, 10-33 Foundation, Reboot, and Guiding Star Counseling—each doing powerful work in the world of trauma-informed care for veterans, first responders, and public safety professionals. This one’s not just a recap. It’s a reminder of why Breach Your Mind exists: to bridge the gap between trauma and treatment, to connect those who serve with those who understand, and to fight back against the stigma that still lingers in our professions. Plus, I introduce a new podcast series—Standing in the Gap—focused on peer support, real talk, and doing the work that actually makes a difference. Referenced Organizations in This Episode: Tactical RecoveryThe ForgeCoplineReboot Recovery10-33 FoundationGuiding Star Counseling (Dr. Amy Vaughn)

Send us a text Originally aired in 2021. This republished episode still hits home. In this raw and personal episode of Breach Your Mind, Bryan and Chris revisit the timeless question: What’s my purpose—and how the hell do I find it? Bryan shares how a message seen on a church bathroom wall—“Be still and listen”—became a guiding principle through his journey from teenage firefighter to seasoned law enforcement leader. Chris opens up about the emptiness he felt after leaving the military and how a spontaneous act of compassion revealed his deeper purpose. 🎯 Topics covered: Finding meaning in miseryHow your strengths may already be pointing you toward purposeThe role of signs, silence, and reflectionWhy your purpose doesn’t need to be grand—it just needs to be realWhether you're in transition, feeling stuck, or just questioning what's next, this episode is a reminder: Purpose doesn't shout. It whispers. You just have to get quiet enough to hear it. 💬 We'd love to hear your story. Email us at [email protected] or connect via social. 🔗 More at breachyourmind.com

Send us a text The first time I ever did CPR, it wasn’t in training—it was on an 8-month-old baby who had stopped breathing. I wasn’t ready. What followed was trauma, a criminal investigation, and a courtroom I’ll never forget. This is a raw, unfiltered story about what it’s really like to be a first responder when the training ends and reality begins. If you’ve ever had to carry something heavy—this one’s for you. 🎧 Watch the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/KDMUwWFd2_8 🌐 Learn more: https://www.breachyourmind.com

Send us a text In this raw and revealing conversation, we meet Jennifer—a seasoned death investigator who spent 20 years grappling with some of life’s darkest moments. Day after day, she witnessed tragedy up close: child homicides, brutal crime scenes, and the unimaginable weight that comes with regularly facing mortality. Over time, these compounded stresses pushed her to the edge, leading her to multiple suicide attempts. Now, for the first time, Jennifer opens up about the toll her profession took on her mental health, why she felt she couldn’t ask for help, and the turning point that led her to choose life. She highlights an often-overlooked aspect of first responders’ experiences: the emotional burdens they carry long after the shift ends. Her story is one of resilience, hope, and the power of speaking out. Whether you’re in public safety, know someone who is, or want to understand the unseen battles others face, this episode offers a poignant reminder that, even in the darkest moments, it’s possible to find a path forward.

Send us a text  In this episode titled "Hype or Hope," we delve into President Donald Trump's recent inaugural address, delivered on January 20, 2025. Trump proclaimed the onset of a "golden age" for America, emphasizing a renewed focus on national sovereignty, safety, and prosperity. He outlined plans to reclaim national sovereignty, restore safety, and balance justice. The speech also highlighted a series of executive actions aimed at reversing policies from the previous administration, including withdrawing from the Paris Climate Treaty and pardoning individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol riot.   In this episode, we discuss the key themes of the speech, such as the emphasis on "America First" policies, the pledge to restore American manufacturing, and the commitment to energy independence through increased drilling. We also examine the implications of reinstating full-time office work for federal employees and the potential impact of ending government diversity, equity, and inclusion programs.   Join us as we explore whether this address signals genuine hope for the nation's future or if it is merely political hype. We'll provide insights into the potential effects of these proposed policies and what they mean for the American populace. 

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Send us a text Can you imagine facing a life-threatening situation and emerging not only alive but more determined than ever? This gripping episode of our Resilience Series on the Breach Your Mind podcast features the astounding story of Jared Reston, a law enforcement officer who survived being shot seven times. Jared's incredible journey of recovery and continued dedication to his career will leave you inspired and reflective on your own capacity for resilience in the face of adversity. As we launch this series, we're not just sharing stories; we're building a community. Your own stories of resilience matter, whether you've faced personal demons, navigated professional challenges, or overcome unexpected hurdles. We invite you to share these experiences with us, promising anonymity to ensure your comfort and security. By fostering a network of shared narratives, we aim to create a ripple effect of empowerment and inspiration, transcending individual experiences to uplift an entire community. Storytelling is a profound connector, and we encourage you to reach out through social media or email, choosing the medium that best suits your comfort level. This episode is not only an invitation to listen but also a call to participate and amplify your voice. Together, let's harness our collective resilience, turning personal trials into powerful narratives that can impact and inspire others. Your engagement makes all the difference, and we’re grateful for every story that shapes our growing community.

Send us a text In this powerful episode, we dive into one of the most critical issues affecting our society today—domestic violence. With 18 years of experience in public safety, Bryan Shearouse shares his deeply personal encounters and insights into the impact domestic violence has on victims, families, and, particularly, children. Bryan discusses the importance of communication, the devastating effects of repeated exposure to violence, and how societal denial often exacerbates the problem. In addition to sharing stories from his career, Bryan highlights the need for comprehensive mental health support and resources. He introduces the new Breach Your Mind website, which now features a dedicated crisis support page that consolidates vital resources in one easy-to-navigate space, providing help for everyone, from public safety personnel to everyday citizens. Bryan also discusses the frustrations of repeatedly responding to domestic violence incidents, where children are often the hidden victims, and challenges societal norms that prevent men from reporting abuse. As the episode unfolds, Bryan shares harrowing stories from his time in law enforcement, including one of the worst domestic violence cases he encountered early in his career. His story serves as a stark reminder of the importance of breaking the cycle of violence and doing better as a society. Join us in this candid conversation as we confront the harsh realities of domestic violence and the hope for change through awareness, resources, and understanding.

Send us a text What happens when your gut instinct compels you to rush to a dangerous scene without a formal summon? Join us as we recount a gripping personal experience where I faced the unimaginable stress of a shots-fired call. From the nerve-wracking drive to the scene to the overwhelming relief of seeing my team safe, we explore the intense pressure and instantaneous decisions that define such perilous moments. This narrative shines a light on why stress management is not just beneficial but essential for supervisors in high-adrenaline situations. Ever wondered about the unique challenges a supervisor faces during high-stress investigations? In the next segment, we dive into the responsibilities that come crashing down and the pivotal role of teamwork and communication in navigating through chaos. Hear firsthand how the team managed to neutralize a threat and adhere to strict investigative procedures while dealing with the looming stress of ensuring everyone's safety. The episode also underscores the unwavering commitment to accountability and public trust, crucial for maintaining integrity in law enforcement. Lastly, we discuss the importance of comprehensive incident debriefs and the often-overlooked aspect of mental health in high-stress professions. Standard operating procedures can only take you so far; real-life experiences and on-the-job training are indispensable. We delve into the necessity of addressing emotional and psychological stress proactively, whether individually or through group activities like critical incident debriefings. Recognize the value of maintaining your mental and emotional well-being, and learn why it's crucial to process these experiences to prevent severe long-term consequences.

Send us a text Ever felt the sting of self-doubt while pursuing personal growth? Join me as I confront my own insecurities in real-time, choosing to publish rather than delete a vulnerable video of my day off. This decision embodies the spirit of facing challenges head-on and showcases the raw, unedited moments that make personal development an ongoing journey. You'll witness my struggle to balance authenticity with self-criticism and the surprising lessons that emerge when you practice what you preach. Get ready for a rollercoaster of a day off, blending moments of cherished routines with the unpredictability of unplanned tasks. Experience the simple joy of a morning coffee with my wife, juxtaposed with the necessity of taking her car to the dealership—despite my preference for DIY maintenance. Through candid observations and reflections, this segment reveals how a lack of strict scheduling can still lead to meaningful and memorable moments. The fluidity of my day offers a reminder of the importance of flexibility and appreciating the small things in life. Step into the world of home gardening with me as I tackle the ever-evolving project of reworking our garden borders. From initial setbacks and eroded soil to creative improvisations with rocks, you'll gain insight into the perseverance required to maintain a beautiful yard. I'll share the thought process behind our landscaping choices, including the trials and errors that led to our current setup. Whether you're a gardening enthusiast or just love hearing about personal projects, this episode is filled with relatable experiences and inspiring moments that highlight the value of persistence and creativity.

Send us a text Ever felt the sting of self-doubt while pursuing personal growth? Join me as I confront my own insecurities in real-time, choosing to publish rather than delete a vulnerable video of my day off. This decision embodies the spirit of facing challenges head-on and showcases the raw, unedited moments that make personal development an ongoing journey. You'll witness my struggle to balance authenticity with self-criticism and the surprising lessons that emerge when you practice what you preach. Get ready for a rollercoaster of a day off, blending moments of cherished routines with the unpredictability of unplanned tasks. Experience the simple joy of a morning coffee with my wife, juxtaposed with the necessity of taking her car to the dealership—despite my preference for DIY maintenance. Through candid observations and reflections, this segment reveals how a lack of strict scheduling can still lead to meaningful and memorable moments. The fluidity of my day offers a reminder of the importance of flexibility and appreciating the small things in life. Step into the world of home gardening with me as I tackle the ever-evolving project of reworking our garden borders. From initial setbacks and eroded soil to creative improvisations with rocks, you'll gain insight into the perseverance required to maintain a beautiful yard. I'll share the thought process behind our landscaping choices, including the trials and errors that led to our current setup. Whether you're a gardening enthusiast or just love hearing about personal projects, this episode is filled with relatable experiences and inspiring moments that highlight the value of persistence and creativity.

Send us a text Ever wondered how a simple walk around the lake can turn a rough day into a refreshing experience? Join me as I share a personal story of battling through a relentless headache by staying active, only to find unexpected joy and novelty in everyday moments. You'll hear a hilarious tale about a new recruit's first encounter with a dirt road, which serves as a humorous reminder of how our backgrounds shape our perceptions and comfort zones. And for a good laugh, don't miss my observation about my rarely-seen-in-sunlight legs, typically covered due to my hands-on lifestyle. Pushing through pain and finding motivation can be incredibly challenging, but the rewards are worth it. Despite a headache and a rocky start, I managed to turn my morning around with a three-mile walk, falling short of my initial five-mile goal but gaining a sense of accomplishment and optimism. This episode emphasizes the therapeutic benefits of outdoor activities and the importance of perseverance. I'll leave you with a blend of humor, inspiration, and personal reflections to encourage you to push through your own tough moments and find joy in the simplest of things.

Send us a text Ever set out for a simple morning walk only to find yourself deep in reflection about the curiosities of life? That's exactly what unfolded during my serene stroll around a southeast Georgia lake, and I've brought the entire experience to your ears. Lacing up for a five-mile trek, I muse on the underrated connection between physical activity and mental clarity. From the rhythmic strides alongside chirping birdlife to a comical debate with myself about the latest fitness fads, this episode is a blend of whimsy and wisdom, seasoned with the therapeutic backdrop of nature. Who knew that a lakeside path could be a runway for the most intriguing of human and wildlife interactions? Prepare to chuckle as I narrate my encounter with an animated pair of geese and their flappy bravado, right before I share a perplexing moment with a plate carrier-wearing passerby, minus the plates. Plus, you'll be privy to my spontaneous research on the legitimacy of a catchy tune from "The Rookie," and indulge in light-hearted banter about the sleeping habits of ducks. It's the simple observations that often hold the most delight, and this episode is brimming with them. As we wrap up our shared journey, I confess the physical toll of our miles walked together and the unexpected camaraderie I've felt with you, my listener, every step of the way. Ending on a high note with plans for "new boot goofing," I invite you to take a break from the rush of life and find solace in your own version of a lakeside walk—because sometimes, the best way to step forward is with a leisurely stroll. Join me on this auditory adventure where every step is a story, and every encounter is an invitation to laugh and ponder.