No One Fights Alone

In this episode of the No One Fights Alone Podcast, Brad and Max share powerful reflections as Police Week and Firefighter Memorial Week approach. They explore the deep meaning behind honoring fallen heroes, the importance of supporting those who are still serving, and how setting boundaries is a crucial part of maintaining mental health.The conversation also touches on personal growth through intentional living, lessons from fasting for resilience, and updates on exciting developments at Chateau Health and Wellness. Through humor, humility, and real-world experience, Brad and Max remind us that healing and strength come from facing hard things with purpose.Topics Covered:The significance of Police Week and Firefighter Memorial WeekReflections on visiting memorials and honoring fallen first respondersPersonal experiences with fasting, discipline, and mental claritySetting intentional boundaries for better self-careUpdates on new programs at Chateau Health and WellnessLearn more at: https://www.chateaurecovery.com Connect with us on Instagram: @noonefightsalonepodcast

In this episode of No One Fights Alone, Ben and Brad dive into what it means to really show up for others and ourselves. Through stories of ride-alongs with law enforcement (not as a criminal, we promise!) and firefighters across the country, Ben, as a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), reflects on what he's learned sitting shotgun in squad cars. From awkward intros and suspicion to unexpected connection and trust, this conversation reveals how shared space, when approached with curiosity, can spark understanding, empathy, and even healing. The guys explore why every civilian should experience a ride-along or a 12-step meeting, and how getting outside your own bubble shifts perspective in powerful ways.You'll also hear:The emotional weight of the job that most never seeThe “human behind the badge” that media often missesWhy slowing down to observe is essential for cultural competencyWhat happens when a clinical director rides along—and what officers think he's really there for

In this deeply resonant episode of the No One Fights Alone Podcast, Brad, Max, and Josh sit down with recently retired Fire Captain Josh Grandinetti—founder of Foundation Fortified—to explore how mindfulness can become a lifeline for first responders.From the invisible toll of trauma and the “responder feedback loop,” to learning how to slow down false mental dispatches, Josh unpacks the science and soul behind building a mindfulness practice. He candidly shares his own journey from anxiety and emotional overload to compassion, clarity, and healing.This conversation dismantles the stigma that mindfulness is “hippie stuff” and reframes it as a skill—one that sharpens attention, softens reactivity, and strengthens relationships both on and off duty.Whether you're a skeptic or a seasoned practitioner, this episode offers practical insight, humor, and encouragement for anyone navigating the demands of a high-stress profession.

In this powerful episode of No One Fights Alone, Co-Hosts Brad Shepherd & Max Morgan sit down with retired Detective Heidi Chance, who shares the raw, real, and often heartbreaking realities of human trafficking. With over two decades in law enforcement, Heidi opens up about working undercover, the evolution of vice investigations, and how law enforcement adapts to protect victims, especially children. She also shares the story behind her book Talk to Them, empowering parents to have critical conversations with their kids about online safety and trafficking. This is an episode you won't forget.Hedia ChanceDetective | Author | InstructorHeidi Chance is a retired detective with over 27 years of law enforcement experience, including 14 years in the Phoenix PD's Human Trafficking Unit. She's the founder of A Chance for Awareness, a motivational speaker, undercover instructor, and author of Talk to Them, a guide for parents to protect kids from online exploitation and trafficking.Find her on LinkedInA Chance for AwarenessBuy her book, Talk to Them, on Amazon

In this heartfelt and deeply honest episode of No One Fights Alone, co-hosts Brad and Ben welcome back therapist, recreational specialist, and longtime friend of the Chateau community, Stacey Stocking. With wisdom, warmth, and a touch of humor, Stacey shares how outdoor adventures, pickleball injuries, and personal transformation intersect in the journey of mental wellness.This episode tackles perfectionism, the importance of self-awareness, radical honesty, and building meaningful relationships, as well as the emotional challenges first responders and beyond face. It also explores what it takes to truly reconnect with yourself and others. The trio also explains that slowing down isn't a luxury but is essential to staying grounded in a chaotic world.This episode offers insight, laughter, and the reminder that healing begins when we are willing to remove the armor.About Stacey StockingCMHC | Recreational Therapist | Pickel Ball AthleteStacey Stocking is a Clinical Mental Health Counselor with over three decades of experience, known affectionately as “The Wizard” by clients at Chateau, where he's been a primary therapist since 2017. With credentials in substance use counseling and therapeutic recreation, Stacey brings a unique blend of skills to his workshops, process groups, and outdoor intensives. A passionate guide in mental health and recovery, Stacey's warmth, wisdom, and hands-on approach make him a standout in the field. When he's not helping others heal, you'll find him hiking, biking, or playing pickleball in the Utah mountains.

In this heartfelt and deeply human episode of No One Fights Alone, Ben and Brad reflect on recent experiences with aging parents, fatherhood, and what it means to have hard conversations before it's too late. Through personal stories, laughter, and raw honesty, they explore generational values, emotional expression, and how to break long-standing rules of silence. Whether you're a parent, a child, or somewhere in between, this episode reminds us how powerful vulnerability can be.

On this episode of the No One Fights Alone podcast, Host Brad Shepherd and Co-Host Ben Pearson sit down with Victoria M. Newman, a best-selling author, law enforcement advocate, and Founder of How2LoveOurCops. With a deep passion for supporting law enforcement families, Victoria shares her powerful insights on resilience, relationships, and the unseen challenges faced by those who stand behind the badge. Don't miss this impactful conversation!Victoria M. NewmanAuthor | Law Enforcement Advocate | Founder of How2LoveOurCopsVictoria M. Newman (Vicki) is an accomplished author and the wife of Chief Brent Newman of the California Highway Patrol. She has written multiple books focused on supporting law enforcement families, drawing from her own experiences and the challenges faced by officers and their loved ones.In response to the rising number of LODDs and suicides within the department, Victoria researched and wrote A CHiP on My Shoulder—How to Love Your Cop with Attitude in 2011, offering insight and encouragement for law enforcement spouses. She later co-wrote Selfish Prayer with SSG Emmett Spraktes, a military book that gave her a deeper understanding of the emotional toll of war. In 2015, she published A Marriage in Progress—Tactical Support for Law Enforcement Relationships, providing practical guidance for couples navigating the demands of a law enforcement career.For ten years, Victoria homeschooled her children, a time she considers precious. Now, with her children grown and building their own paths, she enjoys watching them contribute positively to the world. She also treasures her grandson with golden curls, who brings joy and laughter to her life.Victoria is the Founder and President of How2LoveOurCops, where she uses her skills in writing, speaking, networking, and mentoring to support law enforcement families. She is passionate about helping others through connection and advocacy.Outside of her work, Victoria enjoys telling her famous “Chubby” story, cooking, and is a forensic crime show enthusiast.

Host Brad Shepherd and Co-Host Max Morgan are joined by Vance Row on this No One Fights Alone podcast episode. Together, they dive into Vance's journey from law enforcement to yoga instruction, exploring how his personal struggles with mental health, trauma, and recovery led him to a new mission: helping first responders find healing and resilience through yoga.Vance RowFormer Police Officer | Yoga Instructor | First Responder Wellness AdvocateAfter spending more than 20 years in law enforcement with the Ocean City and Salisbury Police Departments in Maryland, Vance Row faced overwhelming mental health challenges, a toxic work environment, and a career-ending injury. Like many first responders, he turned to unhealthy coping mechanisms, including alcohol abuse. But in November 2019, he discovered yoga. A practice that not only transformed his body and mind but also provided a lifeline of connection, resilience, and healing.Recognizing the profound physical and mental benefits yoga had on his life, Vance made it his mission to bring these tools to first responders and public safety professionals. In March 2021, he completed his 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training (YTT) through Yoga-Vibez in Ocean City, MD, under the mentorship of Tana Martin (RYT-500). Since then, he has expanded his expertise with Warriors at Ease Training, Aerial Yoga Teacher Training, and Veterans Yoga Project Mindful Resilience. He began his 300-hour YTT at Guiding Wellness Institute in 2024 and recently completed iRest Level One Training through the iRest Institute.Vance regularly shares his story through presentations and workshops, raising awareness on suicide prevention, alcohol abuse, and mental wellness for first responders. In his talk, "Calming Stormy Seas: How Yoga Calmed My Storm Within," he explores the detrimental impact of police culture and stress—and how yoga helped him find peace.Through Yoga Rescue, a nonprofit he founded in November 2021, Vance blends breath, movement, and mindfulness to support first responders and military personnel overcome trauma. His engaging, accessible classes focus on alignment, strength, and flexibility, making yoga a powerful tool for resilience and suicide prevention in the first responder and military communities.Vance's journey is a testament to the transformative power of yoga, and he remains committed to helping others find healing, balance, and renewed purpose—one breath at a time.

On this episode of the No One Fights Alone podcast, Host Brad Shepherd and Co-Host Max Morgan sit down with Adam Davis to discuss his powerful journey, the mental and spiritual resilience of first responders, and how his work is changing lives across the country.Author | Speaker | First Responder AdvocateAdam Davis is a former law enforcement officer who understands firsthand the daily struggles faced by first responders. Since 2015, he has dedicated his life to empowering and encouraging first responders through his books, training programs, and motivational presentations that sharpen the mind and spirit.With a raw and unfiltered storytelling style, Adam has become a powerful voice of hope.His work has touched more than 1 million lives since 2015 and he is widely recognized across the United States and beyond, offering practical strategies for overcoming life's most overwhelming battles. As a nationally recognized trainer and keynote speaker, he shares proven principles to help first responders achieve peak performance and personal fulfillment.Adam's inspiring message has been featured on major media platforms, including The Huckabee Show, Good Morning America, The Rick & Bubba Show, The Blaze Radio Network, Family Life Today, The 700 Club, The Glenn Beck Program, and the Team Never Quit Podcast with Marcus Luttrell, among many others.He is also the Founder and Executive Director of the Live Unconquered Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing faith-based wellness resources and training for first responders and service members. Through his mission, Adam continues to serve those who serve, ensuring they have the tools to live strong, resilient, and unconquered.

Pat McMonigle spent 19 years in the FBI, serving as an analyst, Special Agent, and Field Supervisor. He investigated national security crimes, led hostage negotiations, and worked on the Joint Terrorism Task Force, earning 24 commendations, including the Combat Theater Award for his 2017 deployment to Afghanistan.Despite his success, Pat witnessed the toll of the job, losing at least nine colleagues to suicide. In 2022, after a devastating case, he was diagnosed with PTSD. Seeing the FBI's failure to support struggling agents, he resigned in June 2024 to protect his own well-being.Now, as a guest on No One Fights Alone with host, Brad Sheperd and co-host, Ben Pearson, Pat shares his journey through trauma and recovery, advocating for PTSD awareness and mental health reform in law enforcement.

With over three decades of dedicated service in law enforcement communications and military operations, Deborah Green has spent her life protecting and supporting those on the front lines.Her career began in 1986 with the California Army National Guard, where she served as a Communications Specialist and Military Police Officer until 1992. Transitioning into emergency dispatching, she worked for the Sacramento Police Department (1992-1993) before joining the El Dorado County Sheriff's Department, where she spent 27 years (1994-2021) as a critical lifeline for officers in the field.On October 23, 2019, tragedy struck when a deputy under her watch was killed in a critical incident. The emotional and psychological impact of that event, combined with years of accumulated trauma, led to her PTSD and cPTSD diagnosis in October 2020. After retiring on June 1, 2021, Deborah became a passionate advocate for mental health awareness, peer support, and breaking the stigma surrounding PTSD in first responders.Now, as a guest on the No One Fights Alone podcast with hosts Brad Shepherd and Max Morgan, Deborah shares her deeply personal journey of resilience, healing, and hope, offering strength and understanding to those who continue to serve.

We are joined by Sergeant Siobhan McTighe, an 18-year law enforcement veteran, serving the majority of her career as a Major Crimes Detective. She is currently employed as the first female Sergeant in the history of her police department, in Windsor, Colorado. Sergeant McTighe is the mother of 2 boys, and an active wellness advocate for the first responder community. She is a content provided for The Curve, national speaker, and resilience trainer. She is passionate about creating a new standard for policing and officer wellness in the law enforcement community.

Join us as we visit with Lilly Bodway, a retired Phoenix PD officer and US Air Force veteran. As Lilly says ... former cop, former airman, former punk, rocker and motorcycle rider… Gonna stray. Now entrepreneur, up-and-coming couture designer…still off her rocker.

Join us as we visit with Chad Ballestrazze. Chad is an Active-Duty Army Officer with 18 years of service in both Conventional and Special Operations Formations. Chad entered the U.S. Army in 2007 as a Cavalry Scout and served until his selection into the Special Operations Civil Affairs branch in 2013. In 2017 he was selected for the Army's Green to Gold Program and commissioned in 2019He is the founder and CEO of Beyond the Trek, an organization that focuses on creating better generational Americans with lessons learned from leadership in Combat and self-development in the United States Army.Beyond The Trek seeks to develop individuals on a personal level, so they become the person who is a leader to themselves and those that depend on them.Chad has been married to Tawny Ballestrazze and they have two children

Daniel Sundahl (DanSun) is an amazing, published artist and writer with four (4) art books produced of his works. Articles of his work are featured in several international publications, and his art is recognized and exhibited worldwide. Daniel is a registered counseling therapist with the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association, an advanced care paramedic and a retired career firefighter. He is the president and founder of The Recovery and Resiliency Foundation, a charitable organization that helps support people living with symptoms of trauma. https://www.dansungallery.com/shop-art

Brad is joined by Dr. Peskin, the cofounder and medical director of Sanctuary Healthcare, a concierge private practice specializing in ketamine infusions for mental health and chronic pain. He has published and lectured regarding Ketamine and the growth of its recognition and utilization. He attributes his passion for medicine to his father, who taught him the golden rule of healthcare – treat every patient as though they were your family.

Season 5 opener with introducing new season co-hosts, Max Morgan and Ben Pearson. Looking forward to having a great season for the No One Fights Alone Podcast with two fantastic individuals who have a heart and passion to bring a good message of hope to you, our listeners.

Austin & Brad have a candid conversation about the No One Fights Alone podcast as he takes a step back from the co-host role. Austin discusses why but also what his vision for the podcast is and how it has become more than what that vision was. We hope to see Austin back as a stand in host. Join us to wish him the best in his next chapter of Chateau.

Ben joins Austin & Brad to closeout Season 4 and the 2024 year with a good talk on the hurdles and hardships of the holiday season. We also discuss the gratitude we have for all the loyal listeners that took time out of their day to listen to our podcast. Thank you so much to all of you!!! Have a blessed holiday season!

Danny O'Neel was born and raised in Northern California. Signing up for the Army on 9/11 as a Forward Observer at 19, the US Army sent Though the first tour was mostly uneventful, the second trip to Sadr City was a deadly year. Nine of Danny's brothers lost their lives that year. Sadly, 15 members of his unit have taken their own lives in the aftermath, including his company commander. Danny & his wife, Faun started Warfighter Overwatch to help those in crisis. Danny now works as a peer mentor, helping his fellow Veterans come home from the battlefield, and as a motivational speaker. His mission to continue serving is not just inspirational, it'll motivate you to get in the fight!

Austin celebrated another milestone in his recovery. Brad asks Austin wisdom of the challenges he has faced in his journey. Austin talks about one of his most powerful lessons in his recovery journey: honesty. Austin also opens up to a very dear family topic. Tune in to hear a great conversation!

Garrett and Summer Dutson join us to discuss the impact of a Line of Duty Loss of a partner on their marriage and family. Garrett and Summer go into detail on the grief of their loss and how deeply this impacted their marriage.

We visit with Law Enforcement and Marine Corps Veteran | National Presenter | Podcast Host | YouTube Creator to talk about his passion for helping his brothers and sisters stay healthy. Scott speaks openly about PTSD, Substance Use and other issues related to the challenge veterans and law enforcement have with their career.

Bonnie Eckman, with has over a decade of experience in mental health and addiction recovery, Bonnie specializes in developing trauma-informed, sensory-based programs for first responders. She identified sensory input as a basic survival tool underutilized for self-regulation, mindfulness, and stress relief—essential skills for first responders to maintain balance in their demanding careers.

We sit down with Mike Berg, former Parowan Police Chief and current advocate with FOP Wellness. Mike opens up about his career in law enforcement, the importance of family, and his personal journey with mental health. He shares how his struggles shaped his approach to supporting others in the field and the rigorous process he uses to vet FOP clinicians for first responders.

We have Brooke Greenig with us from River District Counseling in Yankton, SD to discuss her passion for veterans & first responders. Brooke has a master's degree is specialized in military social work, an educational track where she was able explore evidence-based methods for helping those who have dedicated their lives to protecting ours. Austin and Brad explore a great perspective on leadership and mental health with Brooke.

Austin sits down with Chateau's own Ben & Danny to give the listeners a deep perspective on what Residential Treatment level of care really means clinically, non-clinically and the culture of this level of care. Further discussion delves into the differences in the various levels of treatment care that the listener can use to help determine his/her needs.

Filmmaker Conrad Weaver discusses his new documentary film, PTSD911. This film tells this story from first hand accounts with first responders themselves. The discussions traverses the incredibly difficult journey of being a first responder. Conrad also discusses how this has impacted him as a human along this journey.

Chateau Health & Wellness Clincial Director, Ben Pearson discussing suicide prevention.

Join us for a converstation with Leslie Forbes, surviving spouse of Thomas Forbes of the Groton City (CT) Police Department, EOW 6/6/2011. Tom was a dedicated, highly regarded and well-respected police lieutenant for 30 years and close to retirement when he died by suicide on June 6, 2011. Leslie and Tom were married for 31 years and there is not a day that passes that he is not thought of and missed by Leslie, their two daughters and four grandchildren.

In this episode, we dive into the life of Lisa, a former Salt Lake City Police Department officer, as she opens up about her experiences on the force and the personal challenges that followed. Lisa shares her inspiring journey of navigating trauma, finding healing, and her current role as an advocate for mental health and wellness among first responders. This episode provides an inside look at the realities of law enforcement, the emotional toll it can take, and the resilience it takes to heal and help others.

Gina Arlington is our guest on this podcast. Gina is the suicide survivor of Officer Brendan Arlington of the Largo (FL) Police Dept. Gina shares their story with us along with the difficult aftermath of Brendans death.

We have Grand Prairie Police Dept clinicians; Courtney Runnels & Emily Mourik joining us to discuss the difficult task of being co-responders. We discuss building wellness programs, clinicians responding & interacting in the field, leadership and overall wellness in todays episode.

Our guest today is Mike Mette with Chicago Police Dept, Chicago PD FOP and National FOP Wellness team member. Mike has a ridiculous story of being a cop one day and in prison the next. Join us to hear his heart wrenching story of his journey back to being a Chicago cop and becoming the wellness advocate that he so passionately demonstrates daily.

No One Fights Alone 100th episode!!!! This episode is Austin & Brad back visiting again about life and recent events. They talk about the current anxiety that election year brings and encouragement of sticking to keeping yourself healthy during this time.

Rob D and Brad invite Jorge "Iceman" Trevino on the podcast to tell his story of the many times he faced certain death only to have it thwarted by some fateful event. The "Iceman" shares his time of using/abusing alcohol along with contemplating suicide. The "Iceman" talks about his time at Chateau and the impact the people at Chateau had on his life.

John & Johnny join Austin & Brad for to discuss the impact of a first responder career in discussing stress, trauma and suicide.

Nicole Ferry, Special Agent with the CSX Railroad Police Department, joins us to discuss to shed light on the critical issues of mental health, suicide, and resilience by sharing her amazing story.

Rob D is back and having a open conversation about June being Men's Mental Health Month. The talk goes from Chateau reunion to self care to suicide.

Liz Pol: Chicago Police Dept & Founder of Resilient Heroes joins us to talk about suicide. Suicide is a difficult conversation and Liz has taken this on as her life passion. Liz has started a non-profit that serves the first responder community to help lower the suicides in our community.

We invited Capt. Matt Bloesch into the NOFA studio to tell us his incredible story of losing his father at a young age. Matt is a full time Law Enforcement Captain in California whose dad was killed in the line of duty by an accidental discharge of a weapon. Matt talks about loss and his turning to alcohol as a mechanism to ease his pain ultimately coming to grips with his dependency on alcohol. Matt also discusses the impact that Concerns of Police Survivors has had on his career, personal life and now his passion.

Tami & Paul Gilman are a law enforcement couple that has had many hardships and obstacles to overcome to have a marriage they enjoy. Join us as they tell their story

Max Morgan & Kyle McCallister, national board members with Concerns of Police Survivors, join us to talk about the 2024 National Police Week.

Join us as we visit with Donn Bradley and his great perspective on how to help first responders and thier families navigate the difficulties of a career.

Austin & Brad discuss their take on the difficult journey encountered with grief & loss

Veteran and Law Enforcement Officer Dario Giomi and his wife, Amanda, a career Nurse, join us to share their story of hardship & heartache to love and redemption.

Join us as Travis & Kandi tell us how their marriage survived incredible hardship and the methods they use to keep their love and marriage thriving today.

Austin & Brad discuss the importance of focusing on relationships, discussing communication and grace within the relationship is important

Austin & Brad visit about the Chateau Highlight month of podcasts of the clinician team and how they were impacted by the conversations.

We sit with Maren to discuss accelerated resolution therapy as well as the very impactful passions to drives her to help others.

Jacquie joins us for a discussion on the impact of EMDR on the first responder. The conversation continues to explore the impact of social media on our values and beliefs.