DeepBlu Project

In this episode, Chris interviews James Espinoza, CEO of American Freedom Consulting, who shares his personal journey through grief and trauma after losing his brother to suicide. They discuss the importance of mental wellness, the five pillars of wellness, and the challenges faced by veterans and first responders in navigating their careers and mental health. James emphasizes the need for supportive leadership and the importance o...

In this episode of the Deep Blue Project, Chris speaks to Bonnie Eckman, a sensory specialist at After Action Care with a background in occupational therapy. They discuss the unique sensory needs of first responders, the impact of hypervigilance on mental health, and the importance of sensory modulation in regulating emotions and responses. Bonnie shares practical tools and techniques for first responders to manage their sensory in...

In this episode of the Deep Blue Project, host Chris engages with Doug Shoemaker, a retired police chief, discussing the complexities of policing, the importance of wellness, and the challenges faced during the transition from law enforcement to private life. They explore the significance of family support, the loss of identity after leaving the force, and the innovative approach of The Curve in reshaping police leadership. The con...

In this conversation, Chris interviews Arthur Mogilevski, the founder of After Action, a mental health program dedicated to supporting first responders. Arthur shares his journey from geriatric care to mental health, emphasizing the importance of trust and tailored care for first responders. The discussion highlights the unique challenges faced by female first responders and the need for a safe environment for treatment. Arthur exp...

In this episode of the Deep Blue Project, Chris speaks with Preston Moore about the critical issues surrounding mental health stigma, particularly in the context of first responders. Preston shares his personal journey of recovery from addiction and how it has shaped his understanding of mental health. The conversation delves into the importance of family support, proactive mental health strategies, and the need for cultural shifts...

In this episode of the Deep Blue Project, Chris speaks with Vickie Speed, the CEO and founder of Blue Cancer Connect. Vickie shares her journey of loss and how it propelled her to create a support network for law enforcement officers facing cancer. The conversation highlights the significance of early screening, peer support, and the necessity of comprehensive health and wellness initiatives within law enforcement. Vicki emphasizes...

In this conversation, Paul Butler and the hosts discuss the evolving nature of leadership within law enforcement, emphasizing the importance of relationships, support systems, and the generational shifts in attitudes towards work-life balance. They reflect on personal sacrifices made in their careers and the need for leaders to genuinely care for their teams. The discussion highlights the significance of living fully and creating a...

In this engaging conversation, Chris and his friends, Michaël Laider, Mike Slocum and Dave Struwing as they discuss the current state of leadership in law enforcement, the challenges of succession planning, and the importance of mental wellness. They share personal experiences and insights on how to navigate the complexities of leadership, the need for trust within teams, and the significance of self-care in maintaining resilience....

In this conversation, Chris speaks with Deborah Green, a retired public safety dispatcher, about the critical importance of mental health for first responders. They discuss Deborah's personal journey through trauma, the impact of vicarious trauma on dispatchers, and the systemic changes needed in mental health support within law enforcement. The conversation emphasizes the need for culturally competent therapists, the role of peer ...

This conversation reflects on the significance of National Police Week, emphasizing the importance of remembrance for fallen officers and the support for their families. It highlights the emotional experiences during the candlelight vigil, the global unity among police officers, and the ongoing efforts to support survivors and promote wellness within the law enforcement community. The speaker calls for a collective responsibility t...

In this episode of the Deep Blue Project, Chris speaks with retired NYPD officer Vincent Scotto about his journey through law enforcement, personal struggles, and the importance of mental health support for first responders. They discuss the challenges of transitioning out of law enforcement, the significance of peer support, and the need for open communication about mental health. Vincent shares his experiences with adversity, the...

In this episode of the Deep Blue Project, host Chris speaks with Carrie Matthews, a veteran police officer, about her experiences in law enforcement, the impact of her father's suicide, and the importance of mental health awareness within the police community. Carrie shares her journey of grief, the challenges of navigating family dynamics, and the necessity of open conversations about mental health. The discussion emphasizes the n...

In this episode of the Deep Blue Project, Chris interviews Ron Sellon, the Chief of Police in Mansfield, Massachusetts, discussing his extensive experience in law enforcement, particularly his involvement with the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP). They explore themes of community policing, the challenges of recruitment and retention in smaller departments, the importance of officer wellness, and the need for adv...

In this episode of the Deep Blue Project, Chris welcomes Chris Scallon, who shares his journey from being a police officer to creating a peer support program for first responders. The conversation delves into the importance of community, the impact of sharing experiences, and the need for mental health support in high-stress professions. Chris emphasizes the significance of finding one's tribe, the role of humor in coping with trau...

In this episode, Chris interviews Shawn Thomas, founder and CEO of First Responder Conferences. They discuss Shawn's journey in law enforcement, the importance of mental health resources for first responders, and the evolution of wellness conferences aimed at breaking the stigma surrounding mental health. Shawn shares insights on building a network of resources, the inclusivity of the conferences, and the significance of community ...

In this episode of the Deep Blue Project, Chris and Matt Griffin discuss the importance of mental health and resilience in law enforcement. They share personal stories of trauma, recovery, and the significance of community support. They talk about Matt's Best Selling Book, The Journey to Midnight as the conversation emphasizes the need to normalize discussions around mental health, the role of mentorship in law enforcement, and the...

In this holiday episode of the Deep Blue Project, Chris, Todd Ehret, and Matt Davis engage in a light-hearted conversation about their experiences with winter weather, Thanksgiving travels, and football games. They reflect on the importance of networking and building relationships, emphasizing personal growth and self-care as essential components of leadership. The trio shares their aspirations for 2025, highlighting the significan...

n this episode of the DeepBlu Project, Chris talks with Jason Palamara, a former law enforcement officer and co-author of 'Living Blue'. They discuss Jason's journey in law enforcement, the impact of 9/11, the importance of mental health, and the significance of peer support. Jason shares insights on personal growth, leadership, and the need for a supportive community in the law enforcement culture. The conversation emphasizes the ...

In this episode of the Deep Blue Project, Chris interviews Mike Slocum, a police lieutenant and project manager for Frontline Freedom, an adventure therapy program designed for first responders. They discuss the importance of mental health in law enforcement, the transformative power of nature, and personal stories of healing and letting go. Mike shares his journey of coping with loss and stress through backpacking, emphasizing the...