Positive Connections Radio

Finding Your Passion, AgainH.A.L.T. and Call for Backup-Episode 113Coast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintockIn this episode, Finding Your Passion, Again, we explore the journey of rediscovering passion after losing it. Whether it’s for your career, a hobby, or a purpose that once lit you up. Losing passion can feel like losing a part of yourself, but it can also be an opportunity to grow, refocus, and find new meaning. Jim and I talk about practical steps to reignite the spark, reflect on what truly fulfills you, and decide whether to reclaim your passion or embrace a new path entirely. Without passion, life can feel stagnant, but with it, we can find renewed purpose and direction."Be Strong, Stand up, Speak your Truth and Break the Stigma"www.MentalHealthNewsRadionetwork.comwww.positiveconnectionsradio.comwww.McLintockcounseling.comPositiveConnectionsRadio@gmail.com

Reframing Thanksgiving: Managing Expectations and DisappointmentsH.A.L.T. and Call for Backup-Episode 112Coast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintockThanksgiving is often portrayed as a time of gratitude, connection, and joy, but for many, it can be a source of stress, unmet expectations, and deep disappointment. For first responders, this holiday can be especially challenging. The demands of the job, shifts away from loved ones, and the weight of experiences carried throughout the year can amplify feelings of isolation, frustration, and loss. In this episode, we explore how the idealized version of Thanksgiving can clash with reality, leaving many to navigate difficult emotions and strained relationships.Our conversation offers a compassionate perspective on how first responders can approach the holiday season with mindfulness and resilience. We discuss practical strategies for managing expectations, acknowledging complex emotions, and finding moments of connection, even in non-traditional ways. Whether you’re working through family tensions, missing loved ones, or simply feeling out of step with the holiday spirit, this episode provides tools to help you reframe Thanksgiving and create space for self-care and authenticity."Be Strong, Stand up, Speak your Truth and Break the Stigma"www.MentalHealthNewsRadionetwork.comwww.positiveconnectionsradio.comwww.McLintockcounseling.comPositiveConnectionsRadio@gmail.com

The Power of DetachmentH.A.L.T. and Call for Backup-Episode 111Coast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintockToday, we’re going to discuss the concept of detachment, a powerful tool for both supporting loved ones dealing with mental health or addiction issues and in managing our own recovery as first responders. Many of us are used to carrying the weight of others’ struggles, feeling responsible for their well-being, or even their healing. But what if the most loving and effective way to help them-and ourselves-involves stepping back?Detachment isn’t about withdrawing or giving up; rather, it’s about creating the space to observe emotions, triggers, and struggles—whether they belong to us or others—without becoming consumed. For first responders, detachment is a key to staying grounded amid the intensity of our work and personal challenges, like PTSD, depression, anxiety, or addiction. Similarly, for those supporting loved ones, detachment helps us show compassion and empathy without losing our sense of self."Be Strong, Stand up, Speak your Truth and Break the Stigma"www.MentalHealthNewsRadionetwork.comwww.positiveconnectionsradio.comwww.McLintockcounseling.comPositiveConnectionsRadio@gmail.com

DETOX or DEATHH.A.L.T. and Call for Backup-Episode 110Coast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintockThis episode is dedicated to the brave souls who have chosen the difficult path of detoxing from opioids and to those who tragically lost their lives in the fight. As the opioid crisis rages on, the threat of deadly substances like fentanyl only escalates, seeping into every corner of society. While the headlines may have faded, the crisis has not, it’s now woven into the fabric of our reality. So, what’s the solution? That’s the question we tackle today. Addiction knows no boundaries. It doesn’t discriminate between job titles, social status, or background. It touches everyone: first responders, doctors, CEOs, politicians, musicians, actors, your closest friend, your child. NO ONE IS IMMUNE. For those on the front lines, our first responders, the toll can be even heavier. Exposure to trauma, the pressure to be strong, and the constant battle with stress can make the lure of opioids feel like an escape. But getting sober, detoxing from opioids, is one of the most courageous and challenging journeys anyone can take.In this episode, we explore not only the realities of the opioid crisis but also the hope and recovery that are possible. If you’re struggling or know someone who is, we hope this conversation offers guidance, strength, and maybe the first step towards a new direction. Let’s talk about how we can find a way forward together."Be Strong, Stand up, Speak your Truth and Break the Stigma"www.MentalHealthNewsRadionetwork.comwww.positiveconnectionsradio.comwww.McLintockcounseling.comPositiveConnectionsRadio@gmail.com

Finding HopeRetired Police Officer Stephanie PolitzzianiH.A.L.T. and Call for BackupCoast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintockStephanie Politzziani has spent years navigating the challenging worlds of criminal justice and social services with the City of Berkeley, California. As a street cop, she faced the stark realities of critical incidents, death, violence, and the intense pressures of anti-police movements. But in this episode, she sits down with Jim and Mike to explore a powerful message: the profound rewards that come from seeking help and discovering hope, even in the darkest of times.Positive Connections Radio: Episode-109"Be Strong, Stand up, Speak your Truth and Break the Stigma"www.MentalHealthNewsRadionetwork.comwww.positiveconnectionsradio.comwww.McLintockcounseling.comPositiveConnectionsRadio@gmail.comlinkedin.com/in/stephanie-polizziani-3b4a90b2

Silence is Killing First RespondersWith Nicole FerryH.A.L.T. and Call for BackupCoast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintockThis podcast demonstrates how one person can go through trauma and have the courage to break the silence and get help. Many First Responders keep their personal and emotional issues to themselves, suffering in silence and often taking their own lives. Nicole, a seasoned law enforcement professional with 26 years of experience, Special Agent in Charge and Sergeant in the Massachusetts Army National Guard, vowed to give her life for another human being in her pursuit to protect and serve our country and to protect the citizens of the United States of America. Silence nearly ended her life and it took literally a cry for help, a scream for help, before she rescued herself from the pit of despair that many never return. With the love of her husband, family and strong support, Nicole got help. She continues to work on herself and not surprisingly, she is continuing to help others by reaching out to those who remain silent. Positive Connections Radio: Episode-108"Be Strong, Stand up, Speak your Truth and Break the Stigma"www.MentalHealthNewsRadionetwork.comwww.positiveconnectionsradio.comwww.McLintockcounseling.comPositiveConnectionsRadio@gmail.comNicole@NicoleFerry.comwww.NicoleFerry.com

SELF-CONTROL: 28-DAY CHALLENGE #9H.A.L.T. and Call for BackupCoast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintockPositive Connections Radio: Episode-107In order to make positive changes in your life it's wise to start making a change today. This is the 28-Day Challenge. 28-DAY CHALLENGE GOALS: We have a podcast for 9 months and talk about the following principles; (1) LOVE, (2) JOY, (3) PEACE, (4) PATIENCE, (5) KINDNESS, (6) GOODNESS, (7) GENTLENESS, (8) FAITHFULNESS, (9) SELF-CONTROL."Be Strong, Stand up, Speak your Truth and Break the Stigma"www.MentalHealthNewsRadionetwork.comwww.positiveconnectionsradio.comwww.McLintockcounseling.comPositiveConnectionsRadio@gmail.com

Guilt and Shame Recovery: The Master ClassH.A.L.T. and Call for BackupCoast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintockPositive Connections Radio: PCR E-106Guilt: a feeling that we’ve done—or perceived we’ve done—something wrong.Shame: a feeling that our whole self is wrong—that we are worthy of contempt from others—that we are inadequate and without value.Guilt and shame that are allowed to run unchecked can take hold of our self-image and self-esteem. We become sensitive to “perceived” criticisms and feel rejection from others. We spiral into worthlessness, self-contempt, and the inability to give ourselves the grace, mercy, self-kindness, and self-forgiveness that we so easily give to others.What do we know that’s true about guilt and shame? Only that they are the motivational factors to anger, violence, self-hatred, substance abuse, and unhealthy emotional regulation.Had enough of allowing guilt and shame to have unhealthy voices within you? Let’s lean in and stop this unnecessary suffering. Time to HALT and Call For Backup!Join us for an amazing panel discussion with some incredible first responders who share their personal journeys with guilt and shame—and their personal journeys to healing and thriving!Somebody say “1-2-3 go!”"Be Strong, Stand up, Speak your Truth and Break the Stigma"www.MentalHealthNewsRadionetwork.comwww.positiveconnectionsradio.comwww.McLintockcounseling.comPositiveConnectionsRadio@gmail.com

Sharks and Daisies: George Cavallo-Former Coast Guard Rescue SwimmerH.A.L.T. and Call for BackupCoast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintockPositive Connections Radio: E-105George Cavallo, a former Chief Warrant Officer and Coast Guard rescue swimmer, shares his experience and courage working for the United States Coast Guard. While saving many lives, George dives deep into the struggles of experiencing death, destruction and total mayhem involved with being a first responder in Hurricane Katrina and other tragedies out at sea. His memoir, "Sharks and Daisies," immerses readers in the intense world of rescue swimming, narrating the physical and emotional challenges faced by those risking their lives for others."Be Strong, Stand up, Speak your Truth and Break the Stigma"www.MentalHealthNewsRadionetwork.comwww.positiveconnectionsradio.comwww.McLintockcounseling.comPositiveConnectionsRadio@gmail.com

FAITHFULNESS: 28-DAY CHALLENGE #8H.A.L.T. and Call for BackupCoast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintockPositive Connections Radio: Episode-104In order to make positive changes in your life it's wise to start making a change today. This is the 28-Day Challenge.28-DAY CHALLENGE GOALS: We have a podcast for 9 months and talk about the following principles; (1) LOVE, (2) JOY, (3) PEACE, (4) PATIENCE, (5) KINDNESS, (6) GOODNESS, (7) GENTLENESS, (8) FAITHFULNESS, (9) SELF-CONTROL."Be Strong, Stand up, Speak your Truth and Break the Stigma"www.MentalHealthNewsRadionetwork.comwww.positiveconnectionsradio.comwww.McLintockcounseling.comPositiveConnectionsRadio@gmail.com

POLICE THERAPYRet Police Capt. David Bond Psy.D.H.A.L.T. and Call for BackupCoast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintockPositive Connections Radio: PCR E-103More and more First Responders are standing up for their mental health and jumping right over that “Stigma” rut. This Stigma has done nothing but place our men and women in extreme danger, off the streets. David Bond is one of the good guys and represents integrity, confidentiality and empathy. He worked the streets, moved up in ranks, helped build his department's peer support team and retired as a police captain to become a licensed clinical therapist and clinical director for Focus Psychological Services in San Diego, CA. Below is his bio and once you hear what he has to say about therapy you might have a whole new outlook on life. David Bond, Psy.D., (PSY32595): was a sworn police officer for 27 years and retired at the rank of Captain in 2015. David is a licensed psychologist and has been working at Focus since 2016. His clinical experience includes working at the San Diego Psychiatric Hospital and CRF Vista Balboa group home facility. He has also counseled military combat veterans at the San Diego Vet Center.  He is trained in EMDR and Rapid Resolution Therapy (RRT). David also serves as a PERT, District Attorney's Office, and GTA in-service law enforcement trainer. He can be reached directly at 619-954-5436."Be Strong, Stand up, Speak your Truth and Break the Stigma"www.MentalHealthNewsRadionetwork.comwww.positiveconnectionsradio.comPositiveConnectionsRadio@gmail.com911Therapy@gmail.comhttps://focuspsychservices.com

GENTLENESS: 28-DAY CHALLENGE #7H.A.L.T. and Call for BackupCoast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintockPositive Connections Radio: PCR Episode-103In order to make positive changes in your life it's wise to start making a change today. This is the 28-Day Challenge.28-DAY CHALLENGE GOALS: We have a podcast for 9 months and talk about the following principles; (1) LOVE, (2) JOY, (3) PEACE, (4) PATIENCE, (5) KINDNESS, (6) GOODNESS, (7) GENTLENESS, (8) FAITHFULNESS, (9) SELF-CONTROL."Be Strong, Stand up, Speak your Truth and Break the Stigma"www.MentalHealthNewsRadionetwork.comwww.positiveconnectionsradio.comwww.McLintockcounseling.comPositiveConnectionsRadio@gmail.com911Therapy@gmail.com

The Heroes Under the HeadsetThe Raspy Dispatcher; Ashley ValenzuelaH.A.L.T. and Call for BackupCoast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintockPositive Connections Radio: Episode-101Ashley Valenzuela---MS Kinesiology and MA Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Administration---is a dedicated 911 Professional and the founder of "The Raspy Dispatcher LLC" and "Let's Talk Dispatch" podcast where she is joined by other subject matter experts to shed light on the crucial role of our 911 dispatchers and to advocate for the positive recognition that they so richly deserve. A former Sacramento California Police Department Dispatch II, and current Walnut Creek California Police Department Dispatcher, Ashley is passionate about educating the world on the need for more dispatchers to help serve our communities. She connects with dispatchers, first responders, and aspiring 911 dispatchers from all corners of the globe---and takes it a step further---providing training and affordable resources that are available on her "Let's Talk Dispatch" podcast, "The Raspy Dispatcher" website, and YouTube videos! Interested in becoming a 911 dispatcher? Looking for dispatch-specific educational resources? Join us on H.A.L.T. and Call for Backup as we "Support The Heroes Behind The Headsets"--with The Raspy Dispatcher herself--Ashley Valenzuela! Say it like you mean it: "The world needs more dispatchers!"-Be strong, stand up, speak your truth and break the stigma-www.MentalHealthNewsRadionetwork.comPositiveConnectionsRadio@gmail.com911Therapy@gmail.com

IRON Sharpens IRONBrothers and Sisters of CourageH.A.L.T. and Call for BackupCoast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintockPositive Connections Radio: PCR E-100Scott Irwin shares his experience, strength and hope for all First Responders and anyone suffering from addictions and mental health issues. Scott is a Marine, 23 year retired police veteran and currently works at First Responder Wellness in Newport Beach California as a case manager. He shares openly about his alcoholism and how he almost lost it all before getting help. It is an honor to have this true warrior and personal close friend on HALT and Call for Backup. -You have the Courage to Stand Up and Speak Your Truth. Show others that there’s a way out and Break the STIGMA!!!!-www.MentalHealthNewsRadionetwork.comPositiveConnectionsRadio@gmail.com911Therapy@gmail.com

GOODNESS: 28-DAY CHALLENGE #6H.A.L.T. and Call for BackupCoast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintockPositive Connections Radio: PCR E-99In order to make positive changes in your life it's wise to start making a change today. This is the 28-Day Challenge.28-DAY CHALLENGE GOALS: We have a podcast at the beginning of the month for 9 months and talk about the following principles; (1) LOVE, (2) JOY, (3) PEACE, (4) PATIENCE, (5) KINDNESS, (6) GOODNESS, (7) GENTLENESS, (8) FAITHFULNESS, (9) SELF-CONTROL.-You have the Courage to Stand Up and Speak Your Truth. Show others that there’s a way out and Break the STIGMA!!!!-www.MentalHealthNewsRadionetwork.comwww.positiveconnectionsradio.comwww.McLintockcounseling.comPositiveConnectionsRadio@gmail.com911Therapy@gmail.com

KINDNESS: 28-DAY CHALLENGE #5 H.A.L.T. and Call for BackupCoast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintockPositive Connections Radio: PCR E-98 C2C E-28In order to make positive changes in your life it's wise to start making a change today. This is the 28-Day Challenge.28-DAY CHALLENGE GOALS: We have a podcast at the beginning of the month for 9 months and talk about the following principles; (1) LOVE, (2) JOY, (3) PEACE, (4) PATIENCE, (5) KINDNESS, (6) GOODNESS, (7) GENTLENESS, (8) FAITHFULNESS, (9) SELF-CONTROL.-You have the Courage to Stand Up and Speak Your Truth. Show others that there’s a way out and Break the STIGMA!!!!-www.MentalHealthNewsRadionetwork.comwww.positiveconnectionsradio.comwww.McLintockcounseling.comPositiveConnectionsRadio@gmail.com911Therapy@gmail.com

HOLIDAY TRIFECTAH.A.L.T. and Call for BackupCoast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintockPositive Connections Radio: E-97The holidays can seem overwhelming, stay strong and listen up. Try to identify with what we talk about. It may be difficult to hear, but thats what we do: We do hard things. -You have the Courage to Stand Up and Speak Your Truth. Show others that there’s a way out and Break the STIGMA!!!!-www.MentalHealthNewsRadionetwork.comwww.positiveconnectionsradio.comwww.McLintockcounseling.comPositiveConnectionsRadio@gmail.com911Therapy@gmail.com

SHOTS FIRED When Time Stands Still (Part 2) SDPD Officer Mike MartinezH.A.L.T. and Call for BackupCoast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintockOfficer Mike Martinez is a police officer for the San Diego Police Department. In his first 5 years as a police officer he was involved in four officer involved shootings resulting in the death of three of the violent suspects who attempted to take his life as well as the lives of his partners. In this two part series, Officer Martinez walks us through his life and the challenges he went through after each shooting starting with his first OIS eight months out of field training. He describes what he did and did not do for his self-care and how his personal and professional life began to deteriorate rapidly when he used unhealthy coping skills and didn’t ask for help. Officer Martinez went through the fire and made it out on the other side to show others that there is help and that you are not alone. Positive Connections Radio: E-96-You have the Courage to Stand Up and Speak Your Truth. Show others that there’s a way out and Break the STIGMA!!!!-www.MentalHealthNewsRadionetwork.comwww.positiveconnectionsradio.comwww.McLintockcounseling.comPositiveConnectionsRadio@gmail.com911Therapy@gmail.comMichaelAM@PD.SanDiego.Gov

SHOTS FIRED When Time Stands Still (Part 1) SDPD Officer Mike MartinezH.A.L.T. and Call for BackupCoast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintockOfficer Mike Martinez is a police officer for the San Diego Police Department. In his first 5 years as a police officer he was involved in four officer involved shootings resulting in the death of three of the violent suspects who attempted to take his life as well as the lives of his partners. In this two part series, Officer Martinez walks us through his life and the challenges he went through after each shooting starting with his first OIS eight months out of field training. He describes what he did and did not do for his self-care and how his personal and professional life began to deteriorate rapidly when he used unhealthy coping skills and didn’t ask for help. Officer Martinez went through the fire and made it out on the other side to show others that there is help and that you are not alone. Positive Connections Radio: E-95 -You have the Courage to Stand Up and Speak Your Truth. Show others that there’s a way out and Break the STIGMA!!!!-www.MentalHealthNewsRadionetwork.comwww.positiveconnectionsradio.comwww.McLintockcounseling.comPositiveConnectionsRadio@gmail.com911Therapy@gmail.com

PATIENCE: 28-DAY CHALLENGE #4H.A.L.T. and Call for BackupCoast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintockPositive Connections Radio: PCR E-94In order to make positive changes in your life it's wise to start making a change today. This is the 28-Day Challenge.28-DAY CHALLENGE GOALS: We have a podcast at the beginning of every month for 9 months and talk about the following principles; (1) LOVE, (2) JOY, (3) PEACE, (4) PATIENCE, (5) KINDNESS, (6) GOODNESS, (7) GENTLENESS, (8) FAITHFULNESS, (9) SELF-CONTROL.-You have the Courage to Stand Up and Speak Your Truth. Show others that there’s a way out and Break the STIGMA!!!!www.MentalHealthNewsRadionetwork.comwww.positiveconnectionsradio.comwww.McLintockcounseling.comPositiveConnectionsRadio@gmail.com911Therapy@gmail.com