Episode 032 of the What's a Hero Podcast features an insightful conversation with Michael Sugru, an Air Force veteran, retired police sergeant, national keynote speaker, and mental health advocate for first responders and military personnel. Host Ken Frownfelter delves into Michael's journey from his early days inspired by his stepfather's law enforcement career to his own experiences in the Air Force and civilian police work. Michael shares his passion for mental health and suicide prevention, emphasizing the importance of addressing trauma among those who serve. He candidly discusses the challenges he faced, including his personal struggle with post-traumatic stress, and the transformative power of helping others. This episode sheds light on the realities of law enforcement, the impact of trauma, and the critical need for mental health awareness and support.
- Introduction to Michael Sugru
- Michael's Early Influences and Career Path
- Transition from Military to Civilian Law Enforcement
- The Reality of Law Enforcement Work
- The Toll of Trauma and Mental Health Advocacy
- The Importance of Asking for Help
- The Impact of Ego and the Need for Humility
- Navigating Career Challenges and Generational Differences
- Preparing for the Unexpected in Law Enforcement
- Coping Mechanisms and the Importance of Support
www.thewhatsaheropodcast.buzzsprout.com
www.kenfrownfelter.com
Michael Sugru
[Michael Sugru LinkedIn](www.linkedin.com/in/michael-sugru-9b4ab5b6/)
Sausalito Police Department
[Sausalito Police Department](www.sausalito.gov/departments/police)
Sacramento State University
[Sacramento State University](www.csus.edu/)
Travis Air Force Base
[Travis Air Force Base](www.travis.af.mil/)
FBI
[Federal Bureau of Investigation](www.fbi.gov/)
California Highway Patrol
[California Highway Patrol](www.chp.ca.gov/)
Napa Valley Police Academy
[Napa Valley College Criminal Justice Training Center](www.napavalley.edu/academics/TechnicalDivision/CJTC/Pages/default.aspx)
Walnut Creek Police Department
[Walnut Creek Police Department](www.walnut-creek.org/departments/public-safety/police)
Richmond Police Department
[Richmond Police Department](www.ci.richmond.ca.us/82/Police-Department)
Sacramento Police Department
[Sacramento Police Department](www.cityofsacramento.org/Police)
Contra Costa County Sheriff
[Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff](www.cocosheriff.org/)
BLM Movement
[Black Lives Matter](blacklivesmatter.com/)
Jocko Willink
[Jocko Willink](jockopodcast.com/)
McGruff the Crime Dog
[McGruff the Crime Dog](www.mcgruff.org/)
Air Force ROTC
[Air Force ROTC](www.afrotc.com/)
Buzzsprout
[Buzzsprout](www.buzzsprout.com/)