The Team Ten Eight Podcast

In this insightful interview, Neida Santini shares her journey from Venezuela to Canada, her public service career, and her perspectives on immigration, community, and mental health. Discover how her experiences shape her approach to service, resilience, and personal growth. Key topics Immigration journey from Venezuela to Canada Public service career and its impact Community and cultural integration Mental health, vulnerability, and resilience Leadership and service in government Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Neida Santini's Journey 04:26 Cultural Transition: From Venezuela to Canada 08:59 Perceptions of Safety and Community in Canada 13:35 The Immigrant Experience: Integration and Identity 18:04 Public Service: A Calling and a Journey 22:17 Navigating Workforce Reductions: A New Perspective 26:38 Finding Opportunity in Adversity 31:09 Legacy: The Impact of Human Connection 36:01 Exploring Life After Death 38:15 The Human Experience and Purpose 40:54 Navigating Life's Challenges 41:59 Cultural Influences on Identity 45:53 Reframing Work and Identity 47:42 Finding Balance in Life 54:21 The Challenge of Vulnerability 01:02:42 Staying Grounded in Uncertain Times Resources Psychology Today - Neida Santini Ottawa Citizen Opinion Piece by Neida Santini Canadian Public Service Careers Guest links LinkedIn Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn !

Join us as we explore the unique experiences of City Councillor and RCAF reservist, Captain Amit GAUR, who shares insights from his deployment to Canadian Forces Station Alert in Nunavut, his service philosophy, and his vision for the future of Parksville. Discover how military discipline, community service, and environmental advocacy intersect in his work. Key Topics Deployment to CFS Alert in Nunavut Impact of military discipline on municipal leadership Community service and environmental advocacy in Parksville Arctic sovereignty and Canada's defense strategy Future vision for Parksville and local development Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Amit Gore's Unique Journey 02:29 The Influence of Military Training on Public Service 05:01 Cultural Roots and the Desire to Serve 07:30 Insights from Working with Seniors 09:47 Deployment to CFS Alert: Mission Overview 12:20 On-the-Ground Relationships and Political Climate 14:51 Daily Life and Responsibilities at CFS Alert 17:22 Reflections on the Deployment Experience 21:07 Logistics and Morale in Military Operations 25:32 Leadership Ethos in the Military 26:38 Political Journey and Community Service 28:47 Accomplishments in Local Governance 34:41 Environmental Advocacy and Community Development 35:47 Key Issues Facing Parksville 40:32 Vision for Parksville's Future Resources City of Parksville Official Website Canadian Forces Station Alert Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn !

Join Christian Lane as he interviews Chris Rutkowski , Canada's leading UFO researcher, about the history, patterns, and scientific investigation of UFO sightings in Canada. Discover insights into government reports, credible witnesses, and the ongoing quest to understand unidentified aerial phenomena. keywords UFO, UAP, Canadian UFO Survey, Sky Canada, Chris Rutkowski, extraterrestrial, military, aviation safety, UFO sightings, government investigation key topics Canadian UFO Survey and sightings data Historical case studies including Falcon Lake incident Government and military involvement in UFO investigations Credibility and analysis of witness reports Scientific approaches and technological tools for UFO detection Chapters 00:00 Introduction to UFO Phenomena in Canada 12:53 The Falcon Lake Incident: A Case Study 25:29 Analyzing UFO Sightings: Patterns and Data 37:41 The Role of Government and Military in UFO Reports 47:43 The Future of UFO Research and Public Interest 27:36 The Role of NAV Canada in UAP Reporting 29:15 The Sky Canada Project: A New Approach 33:17 Defense and Public Interest in UAPs 35:17 Credibility of Witnesses in UAP Reports 40:46 UAPs and Nuclear Technology Correlation 45:16 Personal Beliefs on UAPs and Non-Human Intelligence Resources Canadian UFO Survey Sky Canada Project Luis Elizondo's book 'Imminent' Guest links LinkedIn Twitter Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn !

In this episode, host Christian Lane and guest Andrew Siwy discuss the significance of honours and awards in the first responder community. They explore the confusion surrounding different types of medals, the importance of maintaining the integrity of the recognition system, and the cultural significance of medals in Canada. The conversation also touches on the need for timely recognition and the potential introduction of a Sacrifice Medal for first responders. Throughout the discussion, they emphasize the importance of genuine appreciation and recognition for those who serve their communities. Takeaways Honours and awards hold significant meaning in the first responder community. The integrity of the recognition system is crucial for maintaining respect for medals. Cultural items like medals help define a country's identity. Timely recognition is essential for meaningful appreciation. The fire service has a unique culture that supports recognition. Recognition should be genuine and sincere to be impactful. The introduction of a Sacrifice Medal for first responders is a worthy consideration. Community support is vital for recognizing the sacrifices made by first responders. Honours and awards can inspire future generations to serve. The conversation around recognition should include all aspects of service, not just military. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Honours and Awards 01:28 - Understanding the Importance of Recognition 07:19 - The Integrity of the System 12:58 - Cultural Significance of Medals 20:03 - Recognition in the Fire Service 27:41 - The Role of Culture in Recognition 34:07 - The Importance of Timely Recognition 40:48 - The Need for a Sacrifice Medal 51:41 - Closing Thoughts on Recognition Contact Andrew - victorymedals@gmail.com Christian - christian@pintomortgagegroup.com Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn !

In this conversation, Sachin Latti shares his incredible journey from a law enforcement career to becoming an ultra-endurance athlete and mental health advocate. He discusses his struggles with mental health, the transformative power of running, and how he turned his personal challenges into a mission to raise awareness and funds for mental health initiatives. Sachin emphasizes the importance of community, connection, and introspection in fostering resilience and personal growth. His story is one of grit, purpose, and redemption, inspiring others to take action in their own lives. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Conversational Style 03:44 Sachin's Journey: From Law Enforcement to Endurance Athlete 09:18 Family Dynamics and Immigrant Experience 19:00 Struggles with Mental Health and Career Path 22:54 Turning Point: Addressing Personal Issues 25:16 Reading and Self-Improvement 36:00 Coping Mechanisms and New Beginnings 36:54 Rediscovering Running: A Personal Journey 40:02 Setting Ambitious Goals: Running Across Canada 42:38 Building Connections: The Importance of Community 46:45 Mentorship and Purpose: Finding Direction 51:57 Preparing for the Challenge: Training and Fundraising 56:44 Overcoming Obstacles: The Journey to Sponsorship 58:58 Transformative Experiences: Conversations on the Road 01:04:45 Introspection and Growth: The Role of Reflection 01:10:38 Future Endeavors: Podcasting and Community Support For more information about Sachin and his incredible story visit: https://sachinmotion.ca/ and following him on Instagram @sach.in.motion Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn !

In this episode, Major Robert Scott Oikle shares his extensive military career, reflecting on the influences that shaped his journey from a young man in Salmon Arm, British Columbia, to a decorated leader in the Canadian Armed Forces. He discusses the emotional toll of deployment, the challenges of transitioning back to civilian life, and the evolution of mental health support within the military. Major Euchel emphasizes the importance of communication and leadership in combat settings, as well as the therapeutic benefits of writing about his experiences. He also addresses the significance of Remembrance Day and the need to honor all veterans, while contemplating the future of military engagement in a complex global landscape. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Major Robert Scott Euchel 01:31 Early Influences and Military Journey 04:59 The Impact of the Gulf War on Military Aspirations 06:52 Transitioning Home: The Toll of Deployment 10:07 Recognizing Mental Health Challenges 13:25 Mental Health Support in the Canadian Armed Forces 19:16 Leadership and Support for Struggling Soldiers 22:19 Effective Communication in Combat Leadership 30:13 The Journey to Writing 'The Last Rotation' 35:20 The Therapeutic Power of Journaling 39:51 Coping with Memories and PTSD 44:37 The Military's Unique Burden 49:14 Remembering All Veterans 52:21 Reflections on Global Conflict and Peacekeeping Major Oikle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_last_rotation/ Visit Amazon to pick up a copy of his book: https://www.amazon.ca/Last-Rotation-Afghanistan-War-Diary/dp/1069310808 Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn !

In this episode, host Christian Lane interviews retired Deputy Chief Constable Jennifer Hyland, who shares her journey through the policing system in Canada. Hyland discusses the challenges of balancing duty with personal well-being, the impact of trauma on first responders, and the importance of empathy and authenticity in leadership. She reflects on her experiences in a male-dominated field, the sacrifices made early in her career, and the need for cultural change within policing. The conversation highlights the significance of mental health, vulnerability, and the evolving landscape of law enforcement, particularly regarding the role of women in leadership positions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Tightrope Journey 02:43 The Metaphor of the Tightrope 05:23 Processing Trauma in Policing 08:23 The Impact of Isolation in Policing 11:03 Navigating a Male-Dominated Culture 13:35 Sacrificing Compassion for Acceptance 16:23 The Cost of Wearing a Mask 19:24 Empathy as a Strength in Policing 21:55 Integrity and Speaking Up 24:34 The Role of Self-Awareness 27:20 Compassion in the Face of Tragedy 40:08 Understanding Human Moments in Policing 45:14 Transforming Mental Health Conversations in Law Enforcement 51:01 The Importance of Vulnerability and Authenticity 56:43 The Future of Policing: Challenges and Changes Links Tightrope: Balancing Duty with Courage and Conviction by Jennifer Hyland Amazon Canada Jennifer Hyland on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jennifer-hyland Referenced Authors & Experts: Dr. Gabor Maté – Trauma and Authenticity Dr. Jody Carrington – Connection and Resilience Simon Sinek – Leadership and Purpose Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn !

In this episode, host Christian Lane speaks with Captain Willow Bloomquist of the Dashwood Volunteer Fire Department . Willow shares her journey from various jobs to becoming a firefighter, her experiences in wildfire prevention, and the importance of community engagement. The conversation delves into the challenges and responsibilities of volunteer firefighting, including training, liability, and the dynamics of leading a volunteer team. Willow emphasizes the significance of building strong relationships within the community and the fire department, especially during critical incidents like the Wesley Ridge fire. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Willow Bloomquist and Dashwood Fire Department 08:28 Willow's Journey to Firefighting 13:28 Understanding Danger in Firefighting 15:15 Reading Smoke: A Critical Skill 19:50 Incident Command Decision Making 23:24 Liability in Volunteer Fire Departments 29:33 Attracting and Retaining Volunteer Firefighters 43:53 Wesley Ridge Fire Experience 54:31 Community Engagement and Support To learn more or connect with the Dashwood Volunteer Fire Department visit https://dashwoodvfd.com/ or contact Capt. Bloomquist directly at w.bloomquist@dashwoodvfd.com. Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn !

In this episode, Christian Lane interviews Heather Edward, a seasoned paramedic leader who has transitioned from frontline work to leadership roles and now healthcare philanthropy. Heather discusses her early influences, the challenges of leadership, the importance of mental health, and her current research on paramedic leaders' mental health. She emphasizes the need for open dialogue, self-reflection, and the importance of supportive peer networks in navigating the complexities of leadership in paramedicine. Takeaways Heather's early family influences shaped her understanding of mental health. Transitioning from frontline work to leadership requires courage and support. Women often need encouragement to step into leadership roles. Disruptive leadership can challenge the status quo for positive change. Self-reflection is crucial for effective leadership. Admitting mistakes is a sign of strong leadership. Conflict in leadership can be navigated with open dialogue. Finding the right environment is essential for personal growth. Leaders often feel alone in their responsibilities. Organizational culture significantly impacts leaders' mental health. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Heather Edward 01:42 Heather's Early Life and Influences 03:57 Transitioning from Frontline to Leadership 06:40 The Role of Women in Leadership 09:04 Disrupting the Status Quo in Leadership 11:32 Navigating Leadership Challenges 15:38 The Importance of Self-Reflection 17:49 Admitting Mistakes as a Leader 18:58 Dealing with Conflict in Leadership 24:26 Finding the Right Environment for Growth 25:58 The Value of Being Uncomfortable 28:44 Feeling Alone in Leadership 30:41 Building a Supportive Peer Network 32:29 Balancing Frontline Responsibilities with Leadership 36:54 The Impact of Organizational Culture on Mental Health 39:21 Researching Mental Health in Paramedic Leadership 44:34 Anticipated Themes from the Research 49:32 The Future of Paramedic Leadership and Mental Health 57:15 Conclusion and Next Steps 🔗 Links Heather Edward on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-edward-669a14270/ Paramedic Association of Canada: paramedic.ca Resources Mentioned: The Working Mind (Mental Health Commission of Canada) Bell Let’s Talk – Mental Health Initiatives Wounded Warriors Canada – Trauma-informed programs for first responders and veterans Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn !

The Honourable Senator Baltej Singh Dhillon , a trailblazer whose courage reshaped the face of Canadian law enforcement and whose leadership continues to drive inclusion, justice, and empathy across our country. Senator Dhillon made history in 1991 when he became the first turbaned Sikh RCMP officer , following a national controversy that tested Canada’s commitment to diversity and religious freedom. What began as an act of faith became a turning point in our national story — one that continues to inspire generations of Canadians to serve authentically and without compromise. In this conversation, we explore: The personal and public cost of challenging tradition and standing in truth Lessons from 25 years of service with the RCMP, including leading investigations into organized crime and homicide The evolving identity of Canadian policing and public service The role of empathy, community, and representation in rebuilding trust His transition to the Senate of Canada and what true public service means today Senator Dhillon’s story is not only about breaking barriers — it’s about building bridges between communities, faiths, and institutions, reminding us that courage and compassion are not opposing forces, but necessary partners in the pursuit of justice. Learn More: Senate of Canada Profile: https://sencanada.ca/en/senators/dhillon-baltej-s/ Official Instagram:https: https://www.instagram.com/senatorbaltejsdhillon/ Canadian Encyclopedia: https://thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/baltej-dhillon-case Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn !

Sleep isn’t a luxury — it’s a survival tool. Yet for first responders, veterans, shift workers, and high performers, it’s usually the first thing sacrificed. On this episode we're joined by Dr. Leah Kaylor — a prescribing psychologist, trauma specialist, and the FBI’s go-to expert on sleep. She blends neuroscience, trauma therapy, and performance psychology to help elite professionals recover, reset, and thrive. We cover: Why “I’ll sleep when I’m dead” is one of the most dangerous myths in our culture How your brain literally “takes out the trash” every night during sleep The critical role of REM sleep in trauma processing and emotional regulation Sleep avoidance as an unhealthy coping mechanism — and how to break it The truth about alcohol, shift work, and sleep apnea in first responder populations Cutting-edge treatments like Imagery Rehearsal Therapy for nightmares Practical strategies you can use tonight to improve your sleep Dr. Kaylor is also the author of If Sleep Were a Drug — a science-backed, no-nonsense guide to unlocking the performance, health, and mental clarity you’re missing when you neglect sleep. 📕 If Sleep Were a Drug (Available now): Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/If-Sleep-Were-Drug/dp/164687150X Dr. Kaylor’s Website: https://www.drleahkahler.com ▶️ Connect with Dr. Leah Kaylor: Website: https://drleahkaylor.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drleahkaylor/ YouTube (Sleep Science & Practical Strategies): https://www.youtube.com/@DrLeahKaylor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drleahkaylor/ 🎧 Listen now and share this episode with someone in your life who needs better rest. Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn !

Master Corporal (Ret’d) James Gendron’s story is one of service, sacrifice, and the healing power of music. Over a 29-year career in the Canadian Armed Forces, James performed 63 ramp ceremonies in Afghanistan—solemn farewells for fallen soldiers making their final journey home. Those experiences left deep scars, leading him to put down his bagpipes altogether. Years later, the pipes returned to him in the most unexpected way—culminating in a powerful moment at the 2023 Invictus Games in Düsseldorf , where Prince Harry publicly honoured James for transforming what once haunted him into a source of healing. In this conversation, we explore: James’ path from cadets to 29 years of military service The stark contrast between combat operations in Afghanistan and humanitarian missions in Sri Lanka The emotional toll of ramp ceremonies and the burden of remembrance How music became both a trigger and a lifeline His Invictus Games journey, the moment with Prince Harry, and life after service James now serves his community as a volunteer firefighter and continues to share his story to help others navigate trauma, healing, and resilience. Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn !

This episode of goes deep with Corporal Peter MacDonald, a veteran RCMP officer with nearly 18 years of service across the Lower Mainland of British Columbia. From his early days in frontline policing to the intense files that shaped his career, Peter speaks candidly about the weight of trauma, the moments that nearly broke him, and the path back through therapy, honesty, and support. Today, he serves as a Member Services NCO and a leader in the RCMP’s National Reintegration Program, helping colleagues navigate long-term leave, recovery, and the return to work. We talk about: The reality of witnessing death and the long shadow it can cast. How operational stress injuries develop—and what it takes to process them. Why vulnerability and openness aren’t weakness but strength. The culture shift inside policing around mental health. Strategies for self-care, resilience, and rediscovering identity beyond the badge. This is an honest, powerful conversation about what it means to serve, to struggle, and to find your way back. Guest Contact: Peter can be reached via email at peter.macdonald@rcmp-grc.gc.ca or through the Langley RCMP detachment. Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn !

In this episode, host Christian Lane interviews firefighter, veteran, and founder of Victory Medals, Andrew Siwy, who shares his journey from childhood bullying to military service and firefighting. Andrew discusses the impact of his experiences on his mental health, the significance of self-awareness, and the challenges faced during his deployments in Afghanistan. He reflects on the importance of understanding intent in human interactions and the ethical complexities of military duty, emphasizing the need for compassion and humanity in service roles. In this conversation, Andrew shares his journey from military service to becoming a firefighter, detailing the mental health challenges he faced and the importance of support systems in recovery. He recounts a traumatic incident during the Lapu-Lapu Day Festival and discusses the need for recognition of sacrifices made by first responders. Andrew emphasizes the significance of mental health strategies and the role of community support in navigating trauma. Chapters 00:00Introduction to Andrew Siwy's Journey 02:52Overcoming Childhood Bullying 05:44Self-Awareness and Reflection 08:09The Impact of 9/11 on Military Aspirations 10:58Joining the Canadian Armed Forces 13:24First Deployment to Afghanistan 21:36Cultural Shock in Kandahar 27:09Second Deployment and Special Forces Experience 35:05The Complexity of Military Ethics 40:36Reflections on Duty and Humanity 44:29Understanding the Military Mindset 45:18The Journey Through Mental Health Challenges 46:10Crisis and Recovery: A Personal Story 52:34The Role of Support Systems in Recovery 55:25Navigating Trauma in First Response 01:00:05Responding to Tragedy: The Lapu-Lapu Day Incident 01:11:32Personal Growth and Mental Health Strategies 01:14:17Honoring Service: The Importance of Recognition 01:20:32Advocating for Civilian Recognition of Sacrifice keywords military, service, resilience, mental health, bullying, Afghanistan, Canadian Armed Forces, firefighting, leadership, special forces, military mindset, mental health, first responders, crisis recovery, support systems, trauma response, personal growth, service recognition, civilian honors, mental health strategies Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn !

In this powerful episode, host Christian Lane sits down with RCMP Sergeant and National Police Federation Board Director Chris Voller to explore the weight police officers carry—on the job, in their hearts, and within the system they serve. Voller reflects on multiple officer-involved shootings during his tenure, his father’s legacy as an officer involved in a tragic 1998 incident, and the human cost of systemic inaction in mental health care. Chris reads aloud a viral Facebook post he authored—a stark, vulnerable, and honest meditation on policing in a time of crisis. Together, he and Christian unpack the intersection of law enforcement, mental illness, public scrutiny, and systemic breakdowns. Topics Covered: Critical incidents in Campbell River, BC The 1998 shooting of Connie and Ty Jacobs on the Tsuu T'ina Nation Impact of media narratives on officer morale RCMP’s approach to mental health, training & use of force The role and limitations of mental health response programs (e.g., CAR 87, CAR 69) The National Police Federation’s wellness advocacy Long-term effects of IIO investigations Systemic gaps and public expectations of police Relevant Links: National Police Federation (NPF) The Connie and Ty Jacobs Shooting – CBC Archives Vancouver's CAR 87/88 Mental Health Car Program IIO BC – Independent Investigations Office The Death of Service Dog Gator – CBC News Const. Shaelyn Yang remembered – Global News Connect with Sgt. Voller: @chrisvollerNPF Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn !

In this powerful and deeply personal conversation, Christian Lane is joined by Carly Ring , a dedicated mental health professional, first responder advocate, and passionate speaker on trauma, healing, and identity. Carly shares her lived experiences as a survivor of childhood trauma, a first responder, and someone who has walked through complex grief, post-traumatic growth, and the transformative journey of self-reclamation. Together, they explore: The long tail of unacknowledged trauma and how it shapes our identities What it means to belong in uniform — and the cost of tying your worth to it Carly’s story of betrayal trauma and how she rebuilt her life from the ground up Navigating moral injury and spiritual crisis in the wake of occupational trauma How advocacy became a channel for healing, and a call to greater service This episode is a raw, unflinching look at what it means to break — and how, through love, courage, and community, we become something stronger. Links & Resources: Carly Ring on Instagram: @csrpsychotherapy BC First Responders Mental Health: bcfirstrespondersmentalhealth.com Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn !

Episode Summary: In this deeply reflective and inspiring episode, host Christian Lane sits down with Dr. Alec Ritchie—an emergency physician, educator, and mountain medicine expert. From the adrenaline-filled peaks of Whistler to the life-saving trenches of North Shore Rescue, Dr. Ritchie shares the personal and professional journey that led him to wilderness medicine. We explore the “Zen of the mountains,” the hidden stressors medical professionals face, how fitness and mindset impact recovery, and the life-saving gaps in wilderness healthcare policy. Alec speaks candidly about purpose, legacy, and the healing power of both nature and connection. What You’ll Learn: Why the outdoors is Dr. Ritchie's ultimate mental health toolkit The surprising resilience of the human body—and spirit How emergency physicians navigate stress differently What it’s really like being part of North Shore Rescue The systemic gap in wilderness medical care—and the legacy Alec is building to fix it Resources & Links: 🏔️ North Shore Rescue Documentary – Knowledge Network 🩺 UBC Department of Emergency Medicine – Wilderness & Mountain Medicine Working Group 📬 Reach Dr. Alec Ritchie: Wilderness.Mountain.Medicine@ubc.ca Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn !

Nurses are the backbone of our healthcare system, but what happens when they’re stretched beyond their limits? In this powerful episode, host Christian Lane sits down with Adriane Gear, President of the BC Nurses Union, to explore the critical challenges facing nurses today—from workplace safety and burnout to the historic win for nurse-patient ratios in BC. Adriane shares her journey from bedside nursing to frontline advocacy, the mental and physical toll of the profession, and what needs to change to retain and recruit nurses. This conversation is essential listening for healthcare professionals, policymakers, and anyone who values the people who care for us when we need it most. Topics Covered: ✅ The reality of nurse-patient ratios and how it impacts patient care ✅ How BC became the first jurisdiction in Canada to mandate minimum ratios ✅ The mental health toll of nursing and the fight for PTSD recognition ✅ The truth about nurse salaries and why pay matters for retention ✅ Why nursing isn’t just a job—it’s a deeply personal commitment 📌 Follow & Connect with Adriane Gear: Instagram: @adrianegear LinkedIn: Adriane Gear 🔗 Resources Mentioned: BC Nurses Union: [ www.bcnu.org ] Nurse-Patient Ratio Studies: [ https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8408834/ ] [ https://nursesunions.ca/research/nurse-patient-ratios/ ] Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn !

In this episode, Christian interviews Dr. Mike Christian , an expert in critical care and disaster medicine. Dr. Christian shares his experiences responding to major crises, including the SARS outbreak, the Haiti earthquake, and the London Bridge attack. He discusses his journey into medicine, the challenges he faced, and the importance of mental health in first responders. The conversation highlights the resilience of individuals in crisis situations and the critical decision-making required in emergency medicine. This conversation delves into the critical aspects of mental health in emergency medicine, focusing on the interplay between primary and secondary stressors faced by first responders. It emphasizes the importance of organizational culture in mitigating these stressors and highlights the benefits of interprofessional teams in pre-hospital care. The discussion also outlines key strategies for improving mental health support within organizations and the potential for implementing successful models from other countries in North America. Takeaways Dr. Christian emphasizes the importance of stepping forward to help in crises. His experience during the SARS outbreak taught him about emergency preparedness. A thirst for knowledge drove him to pursue a career in medicine. Overcoming initial struggles in education was pivotal for his success. The devastation in Haiti highlighted the need for basic public health measures. Human resilience in disaster zones can be inspiring and eye-opening. Split-second decisions can significantly impact patient outcomes in emergencies. Mental health discussions are crucial in the physician community. Teamwork is essential in emergency response and decision-making. Learning from experiences in the field is vital for growth in medicine. Mental health issues in emergency medicine must be openly discussed. Primary stressors are inherent to the job, but secondary stressors can be managed. Organizational culture significantly impacts employee well-being. Leaders must prioritize addressing secondary stressors to improve outcomes. A learning culture within organizations fosters improvement and adaptability. Caring for both patients and staff is essential for effective service delivery. Interprofessional teams have shown to improve patient survival rates. Understanding the potential of interprofessional collaboration is crucial for change. Overcoming cultural attitudes towards emergency care is necessary for progress. Support systems for first responders can enhance their performance in critical situations. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Mike Christian 05:00 The Journey into Medicine 16:09 Reflections on the Haiti Earthquake 27:30 Mental Health in First Responders 33:06 The Impact of Organizational Culture on Stressors 39:25 Interprofessional Teams in Pre-Hospital Care 50:06 Implementing Change in North American Emergency Services Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn !

In this episode of the Team Ten Eight podcast, Christian Lane speaks with Canadian army veteran and fitness coach Dave Morrow. Morrow shares his mission to help veterans improve their health and wellness, emphasizing the importance of physical fitness as a foundation for mental health. He discusses his personal journey from struggling with injuries and mental health challenges to becoming a fitness advocate for veterans. The conversation covers various topics, including the significance of community, the impact of childhood experiences on health, and the importance of continuous learning and personal growth. Morrow also shares insights from his books, which aim to provide actionable steps for veterans to improve their lives and health. Takeaways Morrow's mission is to help veterans lose weight and improve health. Physical fitness is crucial for mental well-being. The mind follows the body; physical health impacts mental health. Community and social connections are vital for overall wellness. Reading and continuous learning are essential for personal growth. Shifting perspectives on money can lead to a healthier mindset. Friendships and male bonds provide necessary support and stress relief. Deep conversations enhance understanding and connection. Life's challenges can be viewed as opportunities for growth. Morrow's books offer practical advice for veterans seeking to improve their lives. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Mission 02:36 The Importance of Physical Health for Veterans 06:51 Mind-Body Connection: The Foundation of Wellness 12:23 Tracking Progress: The 100K Veterans Mission 14:49 Childhood Influences on Health and Fitness 20:37 Maintaining Mental Health: Routines and Connections 30:55 Reading and Lifelong Learning 31:57 The Shift to Entrepreneurship 39:49 Understanding Money and Wealth 41:11 The Depth of Conversation 42:50 The Meaning of Life 51:01 Transforming Anger into Purpose 01:01:08 Books and Personal Growth Visit Dave's Hard to Kill website to learn more about his mission, the Hard To Kill podcast and for information on how to pick up any of his books! Follow the Team Ten Eight Podcast on Facebook , Instagram and LinkedIn !