Episodes

  • Reframing Thanksgiving: Managing Expectations and Disappointments

    Reframing Thanksgiving: Managing Expectations and Disappointments
    Nov 23 2024
    Reframing Thanksgiving: Managing Expectations and Disappointments
    H.A.L.T. and Call for Backup-Episode 112
    Coast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintock

    Thanksgiving 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.com
    www.positiveconnectionsradio.com
    www.McLintockcounseling.com
    PositiveConnectionsRadio@gmail.com
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    33 mins
  • The Power of Detachment

    The Power of Detachment
    Nov 12 2024
    The Power of Detachment
    H.A.L.T. and Call for Backup-Episode 111
    Coast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintock


    Today, 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.com
    www.positiveconnectionsradio.com
    www.McLintockcounseling.com
    PositiveConnectionsRadio@gmail.com
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    44 mins
  • Detox or Death

    Detox or Death
    Oct 15 2024
    DETOX or DEATH
    H.A.L.T. and Call for Backup-Episode 110
    Coast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintock

    This 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.com
    www.positiveconnectionsradio.com
    www.McLintockcounseling.com
    PositiveConnectionsRadio@gmail.com
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    33 mins
  • Finding Hope: Ret. Police Officer Stephanie Polizziani

    Finding Hope: Ret. Police Officer Stephanie Polizziani
    Aug 14 2024
    Finding Hope
    Retired Police Officer Stephanie Politzziani
    H.A.L.T. and Call for BackupCoast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintock

    Stephanie 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.com
    www.positiveconnectionsradio.com
    www.McLintockcounseling.com
    PositiveConnectionsRadio@gmail.com
    linkedin.com/in/stephanie-polizziani-3b4a90b2
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    1 hr and 2 mins
  • Silence is Killing First Responders

    Silence is Killing First Responders
    Jul 13 2024
    Silence is Killing First Responders
    With Nicole Ferry
    H.A.L.T. and Call for Backup
    Coast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintock

    This 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.com
    www.positiveconnectionsradio.com
    www.McLintockcounseling.com
    PositiveConnectionsRadio@gmail.com
    Nicole@NicoleFerry.com
    www.NicoleFerry.com
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    1 hr and 14 mins
  • SELF-CONTROL: 28-Day Challenge #9

    SELF-CONTROL: 28-Day Challenge #9
    Jun 10 2024
    SELF-CONTROL: 28-DAY CHALLENGE #9
    H.A.L.T. and Call for Backup
    Coast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintock
    Positive Connections Radio: Episode-107
    In 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.com
    www.positiveconnectionsradio.com
    www.McLintockcounseling.com
    PositiveConnectionsRadio@gmail.com
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    52 mins
  • Guilt and Shame Recovery: The Master Class

    Guilt and Shame Recovery: The Master Class
    May 10 2024
    Guilt and Shame Recovery: The Master Class
    H.A.L.T. and Call for Backup
    Coast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintock
    Positive Connections Radio: PCR E-106


    Guilt: 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.com
    www.positiveconnectionsradio.com
    www.McLintockcounseling.com
    PositiveConnectionsRadio@gmail.com
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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • Sharks and Daisies: George Cavallo-Former Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer

    Sharks and Daisies: George Cavallo-Former Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer
    Apr 23 2024
    Sharks and Daisies: George Cavallo-Former Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer
    H.A.L.T. and Call for Backup
    Coast to Coast with Mike Koch and Jim McLintock
    Positive Connections Radio: E-105

    George 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.com
    www.positiveconnectionsradio.com
    www.McLintockcounseling.com
    PositiveConnectionsRadio@gmail.com
    Show more Show less
    51 mins