199: How to Model Wellness in Police Leaders- the Deputy Chief Duo Julie Beard and Andy McCurdy

I have often been complimented for being a police leader and sharing about vulnerability in the vein of first responder and police wellness and resilience.  It's evokes a strange feeling, as I don't see why it matters more that I'm a "boss" and sharing it- as I feel much just "a guy" trying to support and invite others through this sharing of insight.

However, when I step outside of myself, although it is not more significant when leaders demonstrate an openness, it does SIGNAL and MODEL that it's ok. In a culture where stigmas, judgements, and traditional shame/blame fear responses are still so prevalent, it matters.

It is one thing when a police leader says to get help, but is struggling in silence.  It is one thing when a leader says to use the gym on duty, yet can't peel themselves from the desk due to external pressures and internal workaholism.  

If we want to see it, we have to BE it.  Which is why I'm honored to share two local police leaders who are being about it, sharing in some of their past struggles and how they are continually challenging themselves, which in my eyes is demonstrative leadership in the forge of a true culture of wellness.

Deputy Chiefs (AKA DC Duo) Julie Beard and (returning guest) Andy McCurdy join me in this powerful conversation!

Julie Beard grew up in Washington State in a police and veteran family. She is married, and she and her husband's lives are built around being outside as much as possible, volunteering with and playing sports, and spending family time with their two children. 

Julie is a graduate of the Washington and Alaska Police Corps, and started her career at the Redmond Police Department. She served there for 20 years and rose to lieutenant before being selected to serve as the Deputy Chief of the Bothell Police Department in 2024. Becoming a police officer was a childhood dream and she feels blessed to wear a badge and serve. 

Andy McCurdy has been working in law enforcement since 1991 and is currently the Deputy Chief of Sumner PD. Andy also has an extensive coaching background, Executive Director for the Police Activities League of Sumner, Director of Badges and Barbells, and Camp Director for Camp Possible where he and his wife run summer camps for blind and visually impaired children. 

Andy advocates for first responder mental health on the Board of Directors of Code 4 Northwest, is the Law Enforcement Coordinator for the Pierce County Peer Supp

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