Bend Don’t Break is a podcast that tells the story of police officers who have overcome significant adversity in their personal and professional lives. Through the power of story, the listener will understand the depth of resilience and personal strength that exists in the men and women who protect our communities 24x7.
…
continue reading
My name is Dustin Kelly, but everybody calls me DJ. I am former Army, serving as both a Forward Observer and a Military Police Officer. I have spent the last 16.5 years as a Police Officer and Detective in a large metropolitan Police Department. Throughout my career I have learned two things. 1. Everybody has a story to tell, and 2. The Best Stories Are True. This is the DTD Podcast.
…
continue reading
Pretending to be People is a mystery/horror role-playing podcast. Join Zach, Thomas, Luke, and Joe as they navigate a terrifying campaign filled with twists, turns, and laughs - all decided on a roll of the dice. Can the officers of the Contention Police Department unravel the mysteries suddenly plaguing their sleepy town? Will they die – or worse – in the attempt? This is an actual play utilizing the game systems of Delta Green and Pulp Cthulhu. This is Pretending to be People.
…
continue reading
Two conversations and a fair amount of plot bring new relations, and affairs are often fraught. Support the show on Patreon. Buy some merch at the Contention General Store. Follow along on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. Find other listeners on Discord and Reddit. Soundtrack by WAAAVV. Wolf the Dog played "My Life is Great and It's All My Fault" …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Episode 170: Brent Tucker "Green Beret/Delta Operator/FRCC"
2:11:00
2:11:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
2:11:00
Brent Tucker, a man who answered the call of duty after the tragic events of 9/11, embarked on a journey that would see him serve as both a Green Beret and a Delta Force operator over a 20-year career. Brent's path to elite military service began in 2001, and just three years later, in 2004, he earned his Special Forces Tab. For eight years, he ser…
…
continue reading
"What about this guy? Why has he got that big coat on? He can't be cold, why the extra layer? Maybe he's trying to hide something." Support the show on Patreon. Buy some merch at the Contention General Store. Follow along on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. Find other listeners on Discord and Reddit. Soundtrack by WAAAVV. Wolf the Dog played "My L…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Blue Grit Wellness: Balancing Duty, Family and Health
46:19
46:19
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
46:19
Summary In this conversation, police commander Eric Tung discusses the importance of wellness and resilience in law enforcement. He shares his personal journey of recognizing the need to address sleep issues, chronic stress, and mental health in order to optimize his performance as a police officer. Eric also talks about the role of his podcast, Bl…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Episode 169: David Waterhouse/Sean James Spencer "Army Ranger/Film Maker"
1:45:46
1:45:46
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:45:46
David Waterhouse served in the United States Army with the 2nd Ranger Battalion 75th Ranger Regiment.Completing 6 deployments in four years consisting of 3 to Iraq and 3 to Afghanistan. Miami born film maker Sean Spencer started Studio No 237 in 2017. His films Ranger and Nguyen have both been celebrated by critics and audiences alike accumulating …
…
continue reading
Alternate titles include: The Trifecta of News // He Could’ve Walked // My Pits! // Bob Could Never // Swear On The News // Below Deck (More Like B-low Me) // But You’re Hammered, Sweetie // Squirmy, Be Prepared to Fight Support the show on Patreon. Buy some merch at the Contention General Store. Follow along on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. Fi…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Behind the Shield: A Journey from Undercover Ops to Mental Health Advocate
42:23
42:23
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
42:23
Summary Bob Stenhouse, a former undercover police officer, shares his journey from undercover work to being a whistleblower and the impact it had on his mental health. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining balance, avoiding cynicism, and surrounding oneself with good people. Stenhouse also highlights the need for wise leadership in policing, …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Episode 168: Jimmy Watson “Navy SEAL/USMC/Blackwater Contractor”
2:03:36
2:03:36
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
2:03:36
Today, we have a guest whose resume reads like an action-packed novel.Our guest is a former Navy SEAL and SEAL Delivery Vehicle Operator (SDV), who has also served as a Naval Special Warfare Sniper and Team Leader. With 13 combat deployments under his belt, he's faced some of the most intense situations imaginable. But that's just the beginning. He…
…
continue reading
Alternate titles include: The Goods; The Nuts // Mindf*ck Nightmare //Anyway, we’re gonna go have a competition where we prove who’s more worthy of your love by finding a squirrel baby //I Didn’t Sign Up For That // Two Men Walking in the Woods (One of Them Has a Pistol) //He’s an AM Guy // Beck Wants to Film It Support the show on Patreon. Buy som…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Surviving The Unthinkable: A Journey of Healing and Hope
42:14
42:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
42:14
Summary Constable Josh Harms shares his experience of being shot while on duty and his journey to resilience and mental health. He discusses the court process and the challenges he faced in seeking justice. Josh emphasizes the importance of accessing mental health resources and creating a supportive community for police officers. He also highlights…
…
continue reading
Cal vs. Algernon. CANcakes vs. The Last Waffles. Video vs. Audio. But something just doesn't add up. Support the show on Patreon. Buy some merch at the Contention General Store. Follow along on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. Find other listeners on Discord and Reddit. Soundtrack by WAAAVV. Wolf played "My Life is Great and It's All My Fault" by …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Episode 167: Derek Mensen "MARSOC RAIDER/ Trident Coffee"
1:41:57
1:41:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:41:57
This week in the studio a guest with a story of unwavering commitment to duty and country. On January 31, 2001, my guest took his first steps into a world of service, donning the uniform of the United States Marine Corps. As a platoon sergeant in conventional infantry operations, he led with integrity and compassion, guiding his fellow Marines thro…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Post-Traumatic Growth and Survival Through Support
47:28
47:28
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
47:28
Summary Brad Savage, a police officer, shares his journey of resilience and self-care after experiencing traumatic incidents. He discusses the challenges of seeking help in a profession where there is a stigma around mental health. Brad emphasizes the importance of taking care of oneself and seeking support, even if it means challenging the belief …
…
continue reading
Cal Colorado meets Algernon Geils-Gerding. It goes as well as expected. Support the show on Patreon. Buy some merch at the Contention General Store. Follow along on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. Find other listeners on Discord and Reddit. Soundtrack by WAAAVV. Wolf played "My Life is Great and It's All My Fault" by Altar Girl.…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Overcoming Tragedy Through Mental Health Advocacy
40:45
40:45
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
40:45
Watch the video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/dxpq4bkQeI0 Summary Jodie Baulkham, a survivor of the loss of her police officer husband, shares her journey of overcoming grief and supporting another first responder with PTSD. She emphasizes the importance of personal growth, effective communication, and mental health awareness. Jody encourages listen…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Episode 166 Seth Gehle "82nd Airborne/Child Abuse Survivor/Go Beyond the Shadows"
1:48:44
1:48:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:48:44
Please Be Advised This episode contains GRAPHIC Description of Child Abuse Seth's journey is one of resilience and redemption. From enduring extreme poverty, violence, and prolonged sexual abuse as a child, Seth has faced more than his fair share of trials. Yet, through unwavering determination and an indomitable spirit, he has risen above his circ…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
S2E49 - Close Your Eyes and Let Me Tell You a Story
1:25:08
1:25:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:25:08
Beatitudes are misconstrued. Cal eludes the view of crude food. A potential dude fued is brewed for after the CAN Crew intrudes. Support the show on Patreon. Buy some merch at the Contention General Store. Follow along on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook. Find other listeners on Discord and Reddit. Soundtrack by WAAAVV. Wolf played "My Life is Grea…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Breaking The Silence: Transforming Mental Health in Law Enforcement
50:15
50:15
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
50:15
Watch the video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ojl-vQVxWrA Summary In this conversation, Mark Bouchard discusses the importance of addressing mental health and stigma within the police force. He shares his personal experience with psychological injury and emphasizes the need for proactive action and individual responsibility in maintaining mental hea…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Episode 165: Tim Demaio “US Navy Veteran, Pentagon Contractor, Berserker Built Boards”
1:35:11
1:35:11
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:35:11
Tim DeMaio served in the US Navy where he operated as a Squad Leader at the Presidential Retreat Camp David providing support to high level USG officials, foreign dignitaries, and the Commander-in-Chief of the United States of America. After a tour at Camp David, Tim was chosen to shoot for the US Navy Marksmanship team. He then deployed around the…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
S2E48 - You Could Use God (with Ellinor DiLorenzo)
1:03:33
1:03:33
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:03:33
Just in time. It's nice to hit a finale when it feels so right. Honestly can't wait to see what comes of this mess. This episode features Ellinor DiLorenzo from The Lost Mountain Saga and The Glass Cannon Network's Androids & Aliens. Support the show on Patreon. Share our promo video everywhere. Buy some merch at the Contention General Store. F…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Resilience and Strength: Navigating Through Grief
38:56
38:56
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
38:56
Watch our video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/VWYOjcfSfb4 Summary Constable Peggy MacConnell shares her experience of losing her husband in a tragic accident and how she coped with the grief and trauma. She emphasizes the importance of being your own advocate and doing what feels right for you. Peggy found support from the RCMP and her family, and s…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Episode 164: Taylor Cavanaugh “Navy SEAL/French Foreign Legionnaire”
1:59:13
1:59:13
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:59:13
This week in the studio, an extraordinary individual whose life's journey transcends the boundaries of adversity, resilience, and redemption. From a turbulent past marked by brushes with the law, the U.S. Navy SEALs, and subsequent turmoil that led to a downward spiral, His story is a testament to the human spirit's capacity for transformation. Aft…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
S2E47 - To Persuade Satan (with Ellinor DiLorenzo)
1:08:57
1:08:57
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:08:57
Alternate episode titles include: Zach's Pollen, Mrs. Dumpsterfire, C.N.T., I'm a Withard, and Pitch a Wish. This episode features Ellinor DiLorenzo from The Lost Mountain Saga and The Glass Cannon Network's Androids & Aliens. Support the show on Patreon. Share our promo video everywhere. Buy some merch at the Contention General Store. Follow a…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
The Transcendental Power of Meditation for First Responders
35:21
35:21
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:21
Summary In this episode of the Bend Don't Break Podcast, retired police chief Les Sylven and Garry Foster discuss the benefits of transcendental meditation (TM) for first responders. They explain that TM is a simple and easy practice that can help reduce stress and build resilience. They share research studies that show the effectiveness of TM in r…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
S2E46 - Only One Can Survive (with Ellinor DiLorenzo)
1:02:36
1:02:36
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:02:36
THANK YOU, AGAIN, FOR YOUR PATIENCE. THIS EDIT WAS AN ETERNAL NIGHTMARE DUE TO ENDLESS TECHNICAL FUPUCKS, BUT, FORTUNATELY, THAT SHOULD BE IN THE PAST. MASSIVE SHOUTOUT TO THOMAS AND LUKE FOR ASSISTING IN THE DULL TASK OF ROUNDING OUT UNNATURALLY SHARP WAVES. Anywho, Cal yells, "I will destroy this book" and "gotta burn the body, too!" So it's that…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
A Legacy of Resilience: Honoring Ryan Masales
1:22:41
1:22:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:22:41
Summary In this episode, we remember Ryan Masales, also known as Chopper, who was an undercover operator for the Delta Police Department. Ryan battled brain cancer and shared his inspiring story. He discussed his early career in law enforcement, his involvement in Project Starboard, and his diagnosis of glioblastoma. Despite the challenges he faced…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Episode 163: Ben Wallick “Navy SEAL/Vanilla Gorilla Security”
1:51:00
1:51:00
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:51:00
Ben Wallick, aka the “Vanilla Gorilla” (a nickname he was given in the SEAL teams), joined the Navy immediately after graduating high school in July 2001. He went through BUDS (SEAL) training class 242 and after completion was assigned to SEAL Team 2 where he served as a Lead Breacher, Team Leader, and other various capacities for multiple combat d…
…
continue reading
In this episode of Bend Don't Break, Courtney Luxen from the Calgary Police Service shares her journey of overcoming functional neurological disorder (FND) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). She initially joined the police service with a background in sports medicine but fell in love with the idea of becoming a cop after seeing a female off…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Episode 162: Joe Hahn “Navy SEAL/The Bearded Frogman”
1:55:34
1:55:34
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:55:34
Joseph Hahn was raised in central Texas under the care of Child Protective Services as a foster child in multiple homes from age five until he graduated high school. He was accepted into Texas A&M following graduation where he studied Biomedical Science for a pre-med degree. While attending Texas A&M University for a Biomedical Science Degree, he v…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Episode 161: Liam Cogan “Navy SEAL/Silent Butt Deadly”
1:55:25
1:55:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:55:25
Meet Liam Cogan, a man whose journey has been marked by unwavering dedication, resilience, and a unique blend of military precision and entrepreneurial spirit. A retired Navy SEAL, Liam's career is a testament to his commitment to excellence and his ability to navigate the most challenging environments. Having served as a Navy SEAL, Liam honed his …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Episode 160: Nicholas Ige “U.S. Army Ranger/The Flying Hawaiian
1:59:55
1:59:55
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:59:55
This week in the studio, a remarkable individual whose journey spans from the tranquil shores of Hilo, Hawaii, to the bustling streets of Los Angeles, California. His life took a pivotal turn at the tender age of 10, marking the beginning of a series of extraordinary experiences. At 18, Nicholas embarked on a new chapter, enlisting in the Army and …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Patreon Bonus // Washington, USA // Part One
1:03:38
1:03:38
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:03:38
THANK YOU FOR YOUR PATIENCE WITH OUR TECHNICAL DIFFICULTIES. WE CAN SEE THE LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL, AND IT LOOKS LIKE ROLEPLAYING WITH FRIENDS AGAIN. This here formerly-exclusive episode is the first of a three episode arc written and run by Luke! Joe, Thomas, and Zach are playing gentlemen who heard tell of a perfect town over the airwaves…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Choosing Resilience: A Cop's Perspective on Life with Multiple Sclerosis
34:53
34:53
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
34:53
In this episode, Chief Neil Dubord speaks with Detective Greg Linkert from the Calgary Police Service, who shares his journey of resilience in the face of adversity after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS). Greg discusses his career in law enforcement, including his time in specialty sections such as the tactical team and bomb unit. He re…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Episode 159: Mark Greene “Navy SEAL/ UnSEALed”
2:20:04
2:20:04
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
2:20:04
With a robust background spanning two decades as a Navy SEAL across SEAL Team FIVE, SEAL Team EIGHT, and Special Boat Team TWENTY, my guest ventured through multiple combat theaters in the Pacific, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Graduating from the revered BUD/S training in August '97 (Class 212), my guest charted a path from an enlisted Mineman to a commi…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
S2E45 - Killed By The Devil (with Ellinor DiLorenzo)
58:37
58:37
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
58:37
THANK YOU FOR YOUR PATIENCE. THIS EDIT WAS A NIGHTMARE DUE TO SOME TECHNICAL FUPUCKS, AND THE NEXT ONE WILL BE, TOO, UNFORTUNATELY. MASSIVE SHOUTOUT TO THOMAS FOR ASSISTING IN THE DULL TASK OF ROUNDING OUT UNNATURALLY SHARP WAVES. Anywho, this one's great. Old locations, dropped defenses, new sensations, Hell commences. This episode features Ellino…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
From Crisis to Control: Mitch Hardington's Resilience Revolution
35:46
35:46
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
35:46
In this episode, Mitch Hardington from the Calgary Police Service shares his experience with PTSD and his journey to recovery. Mitch recounts a traumatic call where he found a man who had cut his own throat and the impact it had on Mitch's mental health. He emphasizes the importance of seeking help and therapy, including the use of EMDR therapy. Mi…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Episode 158: Adam Bardwell “Green Beret/Nonstandard Inc.
1:39:44
1:39:44
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:39:44
Adam Bardwell, a name synonymous with resilience and innovation, embodies the epitome of service and advocacy. With a distinguished 11-year tenure as a Special Forces Medic, Adam's journey extends beyond valor on the battlefield. As the Security Operations Supervisor at Global Rescue and the visionary founder of NONSTANDARD 501(c)(3), he stands as …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
S2E44 - A Deal With Satan (with Ellinor DiLorenzo)
1:04:32
1:04:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:04:32
The First New Testament is a Revelation. The Second New Testament rhymes. The Third New Testament could be important to the team or the King that's a mime. Support the show on Patreon. This episode features Ellinor DiLorenzo from The Lost Mountain Saga and The Glass Cannon Network's Androids & Aliens. Share our promo video everywhere. Buy some …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Episode 157: Nick Jones “Marine Raider/Talons Reach Foundation”
2:13:55
2:13:55
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
2:13:55
Nick Jones, President and Founder of Talons Reach Foundation, is a medically retired Marine Staff Sergeant who served honorably for twelve years. Raised in the Kansas City suburb of Olathe, Nick joined the United States Marine Corps in January of 2010; just one month after his 18th birthday. He completed the School of Infantry and was assigned to t…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
S2E43 - Ask Away (with Ellinor DiLorenzo)
1:02:47
1:02:47
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:02:47
More of an old character. In with a new character. Out with a new character. We'll match new and upgrading Patreon subscriptions (until the end of Monday, 12/11, US CT) and donate the sum to a cold weather shelter here in Springfield, MO. Every $5 = 1 raffle entry. The raffle will have 3 winners. 2 winners will receive the PTBP t-shirt of their cho…
…
continue reading
RCMP Sergeant Greg Toogood was at home enjoying an evening with friends and family when his chocolate labrador Abby started uncharacteristically barking outside. He went to the back door of his house to check on the dog. Greg, silhouetted in the door, was ambushed from afar and shot causing significant, permanent damage to his right arm. On this ep…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
S2E42 - Standard Issue C.A.N. Disguise Box
1:00:37
1:00:37
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
1:00:37
Top Alternate Titles include: The Sass Club, A Planchard!, Heavy Misconsumptions, [Morgan, Morgann, and Morr], The Last Word, Be Jazzy, The Salt God. We'll match new and upgrading Patreon subscriptions during the month of November and donate the sum to a cold weather shelter here in Springfield, MO. Every $5 = 1 raffle entry. The raffle will have 3…
…
continue reading