DeepBlu Project

♟️ Are you playing chess or checkers? If you are an aspiring leader—or even a seasoned one—you need to stop what you're doing and listen to this. I just sat down with an online audience and Chris Workman, Chief of Police at the Cheswold Police Department, for our latest Leadership 30 session. Chris brings a raw, authentic style that cuts through the noise and hits home. The core message? Culture doesn't live on this 40-minute deep dive,Chris challenges the "checking the box" mentality and explores what it actually takes to play the long game. We covered some heavy hitters that every leader should keep on their desk:🔹 Compliance is not culture. Activity is not progress. Completion is not transformation.🔹 Watch what you tolerate. People don’t just listen to what you say; they watch what you allow.🔹 The true measure of leadership. It’s not about how indispensable you are, but how prepared others become because of you.After listening to this, you’ll be asking yourself: Am I a checkers player, or a chess player?

In this conversation, Christ talks with Chris Hsiung, a former police chief and current executive director of The Curve, a nonprofit focused on modernizing policing culture. They discuss Hsiung's extensive background in law enforcement, the evolution of leadership styles, the importance of self-awareness, and the need for cultural shifts within police departments. They also address the challenges of wellness programs in law enforcement and the significance of effective communication. Hsiung emphasizes the need for leaders to be available and vulnerable, and the importance of learning from other industries to improve policing practices.

In this conversation, Chris and Rich delve into the complexities of mental health within public safety, emphasizing the importance of trust, peer support, and proactive strategies. They discuss the challenges faced by individuals in crisis, the stigma surrounding mental health, and the need for a supportive culture that encourages open dialogue. Rich shares his experiences and insights on navigating the mental health landscape, highlighting the significance of self-awareness and continuous growth. The conversation concludes with a call to action for creating a more compassionate and understanding environment in public safety agencies.

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 of addressing mental health issues within law enforcement. The conversation highlights the significance of mentorship, advocacy, and the need for a cultural shift in how mental health is perceived in the first responder community.

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 input and emotional states, emphasizing the need for self-regulation and the benefits of sensory rooms. The conversation also highlights the After Action program, which aims to provide mental health support and resources for first responders.

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 conversation emphasizes the need for building trust within communities, addressing mental health issues, and celebrating the successes of law enforcement professionals.

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 explains innovative programs designed to support first responders, including a two-week reset program and sensory modulation therapy. The conversation concludes with a focus on the critical role of leadership in fostering a culture of wellness within agencies.

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 how mental health is perceived and discussed. They emphasize the significance of continuous growth and the necessity of creating a supportive environment for those in high-stress professions.

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 the significance of community and mentorship in navigating the challenges of cancer, and she outlines future initiatives aimed at raising awareness and providing resources for officers and their families.

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 legacy that inspires future generations.

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. The discussion emphasizes the importance of finding one's value and the impact of mindset on personal and professional growth.

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 support, and the ongoing stigma surrounding mental health issues in first responder communities.

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 to honor the legacy of those who have served and to build trust within communities.

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 role of humor in coping, and the importance of self-love and vulnerability. The conversation emphasizes the need for a cultural shift in law enforcement agencies to prioritize mental wellness and support for their personnel.

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 need for support, healing, and changing mindsets in law enforcement to prevent further tragedies.

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 advocacy and collaboration within the law enforcement community. Ron shares insights on his candidacy for IACP leadership and the cultural improvements needed in policing, emphasizing the importance of innovation and purpose in the profession.

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 trauma, and the mission of Trauma Behind the Badge and the folks at Survive First to provide resources and support for those in need. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to reach out for help and to connect with others who understand their struggles.This episode contains some explicit language, but we don't get crazy with it - Adult listeners only.

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 involvement and donations. The conversation emphasizes the need for diverse resources and support systems for first responders and their families.

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 importance of finding balance and purpose beyond the badge. They encourage listeners to transform their obstacles into opportunities and to take action towards their mental well-being and become Guardians of the Badge.

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 significance of education and continuous learning in their journeys. They conclude with heartfelt holiday wishes and a commitment to supporting one another and their community.

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 importance of finding coping mechanisms and encourages listeners to keep pushing forward in their mental health journeys.

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 need for self-care and community support among first responders. The conversation highlights the impact of outdoor therapy and the growing tradition of wellness initiatives within law enforcement.

In this episode of the Deep Blue Project, Chris talks to Mike Lawson, a former Wilmington (Delaware) police officer who shares his experiences in law enforcement, including a harrowing active shooter incident in 1997. Lawson discusses the challenges of police work, the impact of PTSD, and the importance of mental health support for officers. He reflects on his transition to the private sector and emphasizes the need for coping mechanisms and open conversations about mental health in law enforcement. Lawson concludes with words of wisdom for current officers, acknowledging the difficulties they face in today's environment.

In this episode of the Deep Blue Project, host Chris Workman welcomes Matt Fagiana, a seasoned law enforcement professional and instructor at FBI LEEDA. They discuss Matt's journey in law enforcement, the critical role of public information officers (PIOs), and the importance of effective crisis communication. The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of media relations, the impact of social media on law enforcement, and the challenges of recruitment and retention in small agencies. Matt shares his passion for flying and emphasizes the significance of work-life balance and mental health in the profession. The episode concludes with a call to action for law enforcement leaders to prioritize communication strategies and build trust within their communities.

n this conversation, Vance Row shares his transformative journey from a police officer to a yoga instructor, highlighting the challenges he faced with mental health and alcohol addiction. He discusses the importance of self-care, the healing power of yoga, and the need for first responders to find healthy coping mechanisms. Vance emphasizes the significance of community support and resources available for mental health, encouraging others to prioritize their well-being and seek help when needed.

In this conversation, Chris and Todd discuss their experiences in law enforcement and the importance of leadership development. They both highlight the value of the FBI LEEDA program in enhancing their leadership skills and connecting with like-minded individuals. They emphasize the need for law enforcement agencies to collaborate and share information to address common challenges. They also discuss the mindset shift required in modern policing, including the importance of self-care and work-life balance. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, networking, and adapting to the changing needs of the community. The conversation focuses on the importance of mindset change and shifting towards a more caring and invested approach in law enforcement. It highlights the privilege of being part of the shift and the need to listen and invest in people. The speakers discuss the significance of officer wellness and the importance of opening up lines of communication before problems arise. They emphasize the value of building networks and seeking advice and support from others. The conversation also touches on the impact of work-life balance on mental health and relationships, and the need to take care of oneself in order to better serve the community.

Chris and Chief Will Armstrong share his journey of becoming the chief of police at a young age and the challenges he faced in gaining the respect and trust of his officers. He emphasizes the importance of communication and utilizing the strengths of his team members. Armstrong also discusses the family atmosphere he has created within his agency and its positive impact. Highlighting the need for effective leadership and the ability to recognize and address weaknesses. Armstrong's story serves as an inspiration for young leaders in law enforcement. In this conversation, Will discusses his experience as a young police chief in a small town and the challenges he faced. He talks about navigating the dynamics of working with older officers and the importance of building relationships with his team. Will also shares his innovative approach to recruitment and retention, including the use of a TV show to attract new officers. He emphasizes the need for energy and creativity in small-town policing and the importance of thinking outside the box. Will also discusses his journey and how his life experiences have shaped his perspective on law enforcement.

Chris Cowan, former chief of police and current director of strategic initiatives, discusses the importance of leadership development and support in law enforcement. He highlights the Excellence in Policing and Public Safety program at the University of South Carolina, which aims to provide resources and training for law enforcement executives. Cowan emphasizes the need for leaders to have a strong support network and mentors who can guide and coach them. He also shares the challenges he faced during a critical incident in his department and the importance of preparedness and teamwork in such situations. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the evolution of leadership styles in law enforcement and the importance of building relationships and hunting the good in your team.

In this conversation, Chris interviews Kathleen Dias, a writer for Police One, about the challenges faced by small and rural police agencies. Kathleen shares her background and how she started writing about rural policing. She discusses the differences between rural and urban policing, including variations in laws, culture, and funding sources. They also talk about the unique challenges faced by officers in remote areas, such as limited resources, long response times, and higher rates of addiction and violence. Kathleen emphasizes the importance of supporting and adequately compensating officers in small departments.02:40 The Challenges of Rural Policing05:37 Technology and Training for Small Agencies09:35 Dispelling Misconceptions about Rural Officer Safety20:50 Addressing the Specific Needs of Rural Law Enforcement24:06 Introduction to the Challenges Faced by Small and Rural Police Departments25:42 The Impact of Limited Resources on Officer Safety27:59 Disproportionate Number of Officer Fatalities in Small Departments31:07 The Effect of Low Pay on Recruitment and Retention33:55 The Need for Adequate Funding and Support for Law Enforcement

Barbara Rubel, an award-winning author and keynote speaker, shares her personal experience as a suicide loss survivor and the daughter of two police officers. She emphasizes the importance of postvention, the support provided to those affected by suicide, and the need for awareness and understanding of suicide and its impact on first responders. Chris and Barbara discuss the need for mental health support in law enforcement and the stigma surrounding seeking help. They both highlight the importance of open conversations, peer support, and proactive mental health strategies in preventing suicide and promoting well-being in first responders. Occupational burnout and secondary traumatic stress can lead to compassion fatigue in first responders. It is important to recognize and define these experiences to seek help and develop coping mechanisms. Other challenges faced by first responders include moral injury and vicarious trauma. Self-compassion, positive attitude, and maintaining connections are key to resilience. The color blue symbolizes the shared experiences and connections among first responders. Barbara offers resources and support through her books, speaking engagements, and website.

In this conversation, Chris and Liz discuss the Resilient Heroes project, which focuses on providing trauma and suicide psychoeducation to first responders. They emphasize the importance of proactive mental health care and the need for first responders to understand the risk factors and protective factors related to suicide. They also discuss the psychoeducation training program, which includes group discussions, scenario-based training, and an exploration of real-life cases. The feedback from participants has been positive, with many expressing gratitude for the new perspectives and knowledge gained. The conversation highlights the need for first responders to prioritize self-care and seek support when needed.

In this episode of the DeepBlu Project Chris has a discussion with John Clair, Chief of the Town of Marion Police Department as they explore the challenges faced by small police departments, including recruitment, retention, and limited resources. They discuss the differences between small town policing and urban policing, highlighting the customer-oriented approach of small town officers. They also touch on the impact of changing job market trends and the need for small departments to adapt. The conversation emphasizes the importance of building trust and relationships within the community and managing community expectations. They conclude by discussing the book 'The Courage to Be Disliked' and the need for self-reflection and personal growth in law enforcement.

In this conversation, Chris interviews Elizabeth Pol, the founder of Resilient Heroes, about the importance of addressing officer trauma and police suicide. They discuss the need for a different approach to training and education on trauma and suicide, focusing on interactive conversations and scenario-based training. Elizabeth shares her experience as a Chicago police officer and her work in suicide psychological autopsies, emphasizing the importance of understanding risk factors and indicators of suicide. They also discuss the challenges of addressing mental health and wellness in the law enforcement community and the need for self-advocacy and resources for first responders. Elizabeth's organization, Resilient Heroes, aims to provide psychoeducation and support to first responders and agencies across the United States.

In this episode Matt and Chris cover various topics including personal anecdotes, networking, leadership training, challenges in law enforcement recruitment and retention, and the need for adapting to the changing needs of the newer generation. The hosts discuss the importance of networking and making connections, as well as the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in attracting and retaining new officers. Overall, the conversation highlights the need for innovation and flexibility in the law enforcement profession. Exploring the need for improved communication and training in law enforcement academies. The speakers discuss the challenges of teaching oral communication skills to a generation that primarily communicates through short messages and the need for a shift in the training approach, focusing on building trust, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. The conversation concludes with a call for change in the law enforcement profession and a commitment to supporting officers who think outside the box.

In this episode, host Chris reflects on the importance of wellness and self-awareness in the law enforcement profession. He discusses the mental and emotional challenges that come with the job and emphasizes the need for officers to take care of their mental health. Chris shares his personal experience with cancer and how it affected his mental state. He encourages listeners to seek help and find healthy coping mechanisms for the stressors they face. The episode ends with a reminder to prioritize mental wellness and reach out for support.

Ernie Stevens shares his journey into crisis intervention training and the impact it had on his career as a police officer. He discusses the lack of mental health training in the academy and the challenges he faced in responding to mental health crises. Ernie recounts a powerful encounter with a woman whose son had schizophrenia, which changed his perspective and motivated him to make a difference. The conversation also touches on the importance of crisis intervention training for law enforcement officers and the need for a shift in mindset from a use of force approach to one focused on de-escalation and empathy. The conversation focuses on the importance of empathy and understanding in law enforcement when dealing with mental health crises. It highlights the need for officers to go beyond just doing their job and instead focus on supporting individuals in crisis. The conversation also emphasizes the role of crisis intervention training (CIT) in redefining safety as the presence of well-being and building a culture of wellness within law enforcement. It discusses the collaboration between law enforcement and mental health authorities, the importance of active listening, and the challenges and successes in implementing mental health programs.EMTALA https://www.cms.gov/medicare/provider-enrollment-and-certification/certificationandcomplianc/downloads/emtala.pdf

In this episode, host Chris interviews Michael Laidler, a professional speaker and former police officer. Michael shares his journey from growing up in a challenging environment to becoming a successful speaker and author. He emphasizes the importance of starting somewhere and not being defined by your starting point. Michael and Chris also discusses the significance of self-awareness, mental wellness, and vulnerability in law enforcement and first responder communities. They encourage individuals to seek help and support to clean out their mental closets and overcome the stigma surrounding mental health. In this conversation, Michael Laidler emphasizes the importance of being a role model and leader in law enforcement. He discusses the need to lead others in a way that allows them to grow and emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and personal growth. Laidler also talks about his book, 'Greatness Beyond the Badge,' which focuses on building a foundation of self-awareness and looking inward to become a better law enforcement officer. He shares his journey of writing the book and the lessons he learned about himself in the process. Laidler also discusses his podcast, the LEO First Podcast, which aims to show that law enforcement officers are more than just their uniforms and highlights the importance of sharing personal stories and experiences.

In this episode, Chris and Matt discuss their journey and the importance of support and friendship in personal and professional growth. They talk about the origins of their podcast and the impact of their friendship on their individual goals. They also delve into the concept of leadership and the significance of empathy and belief in their respective journeys. They emphasize the importance of mental health and the need to break the stigma surrounding seeking help. Overall, the conversation highlights the power of connection, support, and personal development. The conversation explores the challenges of being authentic in a world that tries to make you conform. It emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself and not letting others define who you should be. The speakers discuss the need for courage and positivity in order to overcome societal expectations and find happiness. They also touch on the power of mentorship and the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences. Overall, the conversation encourages listeners to embrace their true selves and pursue their own paths.