The deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis exposed failures in communication of immigration enforcement—escalating tensions and deepening public distrust in law enforcement leadership.

In this episode, retired Police Chief Christopher Mannino joins Robert Asencio and Dr. Pamela Seraphine for a candid conversation on crisis communication in law enforcement. They examine how political rhetoric shapes public perception, why transparency and credibility are essential during high-stakes incidents, and how communication failures can erode trust.

The discussion also explores the neurobiological impact of stress on officers, underscoring the need for comprehensive training, wellness support, and recovery practices. Together, they make the case for building a culture where officers are empowered to intervene when a colleague is losing control—strengthening accountability, improving decision-making under pressure, and restoring public confidence.

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction to Crisis Communication in Law Enforcement

03:11 - The Impact of Political Rhetoric on Communication

06:01 - The Importance of Transparency and Honesty

09:07 - Understanding Neurobiological Load in Crisis Situations

12:11 - Creating a Supportive Culture in Law Enforcement

14:48 - Personal Reflections on Stress and Decision Making

17:56 - The Need for Comprehensive Training in Law Enforcement

20:54 - Prioritizing Officer Wellness and Recovery

24:04 - Empowering Officers to Intervene

26:54 - Conclusion and Call to Action

About Neuroscientist Dr. Pamela Seraphine:

https://www.drpamelaseraphine.com/

About Vets And Badges Host:

Robert Asencio is a retired police Captain, former Florida State Representative, US Army Veteran who served as a member of the Special Operations community with over 34 years of public service experience.

Vets and Badges Podcast is an initiative of HEALING - a non-profit created to support veterans, first responder and community stakeholders.

For more visit:

https://www.kbcf.org/programs/healing-corp/

Info@VetsAndBadges.com

www.VetsAndBadges.com

VAB - 2026

In this episode of Vets and Badges, host Robert Asencio engages in a profound conversation with Chris Wiacek, a U.S. Amry combat veteran who served in Iraq and Afghanistan. They delve into the often-overlooked aftermath of war, discussing the psychological toll on service members and the challenges they face upon returning to civilian life. Chris shares his personal experiences, including a harrowing incident during his deployment that continues to haunt him. The discussion highlights the importance of understanding the struggles veterans endure and the need for better support systems to aid their transition back into society.

Chris recounts his journey from military service to becoming a police officer, revealing how untreated trauma led him down a path of self-destruction through alcohol abuse. However, a turning point in his life came when he sought help, leading him to rehabilitation and ultimately inspiring him to pursue a career in social work to assist other veterans and first responders. The episode emphasizes the significance of reaching out to those who have served, as a simple conversation can make a profound difference in their lives.

OUT OF THE FIRE INTO THE LIGHT DOCUMENTARY:

https://outofthefireintothelight.com/

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction

00:57 - The Cost of War: A Veteran's Perspective

01:39 - Meet Chris Wysak: A Combat Veteran's Story

03:28 - The Box Incident: A Harrowing Experience

11:32 - Life After Combat: Untreated Trauma

16:29 - Turning Point: Seeking Help and Recovery

21:35 - A New Mission: Helping Fellow Veterans

About Vets And Badges Host:

Robert Asencio is a retired police Captain, former Florida State Representative, US Army Veteran who served as a member of the Special Operations community with over 34 years of public service experience.

Vets and Badges Podcast is an initiative of HEALING - a non-profit created to support veterans, first responder and community stakeholders.

For more visit:

https://www.kbcf.org/programs/healing-corp/

Info@VetsAndBadges.com

www.VetsAndBadges.com

VAB - 2026

#History: American Hero, Colonel Tedesco III shares his experiences as the US Army's 1-37 AR Task Force Commander during the intense 2md battle of Ramadi, Iraq. He discusses the challenges of urban combat, the strategies employed to secure neighborhoods, save lives, and the importance of genuine leadership in high-stress environments.

Colonel Tedesco reflects on his personal journey, the sacrifices made for family, and the ongoing struggles faced by veterans. He offers valuable insights for future leaders, emphasizing the need for authenticity, learning from others, and the importance of support systems for healing after trauma.

Chapters:

00:00 - The Battle for Ramadi: A Commander’s Perspective

13:07 - Leadership in Combat: Personal Experiences and Challenges

30:14 - Lessons for Future Leaders: Insights and Advice

36:57 - Healing and Moving Forward: Support for Veterans

About Vets And Badges Host:

Robert Asencio is a retired police Captain, former Florida State Representative, US Army Veteran who served as a member of the Special Operations community with over 34 years of public service experience.

Vets and Badges Podcast is an initiative of HEALING - a non-profit created to support veterans, first responder and community stakeholders.

For more visit:

https://www.kbcf.org/programs/healing-corp/

Info@VetsAndBadges.com

www.VetsAndBadges.com

VAB - 2026

On Vets And Badges: "We're Alpha Males.. We Don't Ask For Help" -US Army MSG Alberto "Al" Rivera shares his struggle in transitioning to civilian life after retirement from 30 years of active-duty military service. The conversation focuses on the challenges veterans face, including mental health issues, the struggle for identity, and the importance of community support during and after our service. The speakers share personal stories and insights on coping with trauma, the stigma of seeking help, and the need for greater awareness and resources for veterans.

Chapters:

00:00 - Introduction to Veterans' Experiences

02:43 - The Impact of Military Service on Identity

04:58 - Challenges of Reintegration into Civilian Life

06:28 - Mental Health and Substance Abuse Issues

08:54 - Understanding PTS and Its Effects

11:27 - The Importance of Community and Support

14:42 - Generational Differences in Seeking Help

16:57 - The Role of Organizations in Veteran Support

18:07 - Final Thoughts and Resources for Veterans

About MSG Rivera:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/alb

erto-rivera0321/

About Vets And Badges Host:

Robert Asencio is a retired police Captain, former Florida State Representative, US Army Veteran who served as a member of the Special Operations community with over 34 years of public service experience.

Vets and Badges Podcast is an initiative of HEALING - a non-profit created to support veterans, first responder and community stakeholders.

For more visit:

https://www.kbcf.org/programs/healing-corp/

Info@VetsAndBadges.com

www.VetsAndBadges.com

VAB - 2025

In this episode of Vets and Badges, the hosts delve into the complex emotions of anger, trauma, and betrayal experienced by first responders.

Ep 2 of Neuroscience of Self-Mastery explores the brain science behind these emotions, the impact of unresolved trauma on law enforcement, and the importance of mental health and self-mastery in high-stakes environments. The conversation emphasizes the need for emotional intelligence and support systems within the first responder community to navigate the challenges they face.

Chapters

00:00 - Understanding Anger and Rage in First Responders

03:03 - The Neuroscience of Emotion and Behavior

05:53 - The Impact of Training on Emotional Responses

08:58 - The Ripple Effect of Violence and Anger

11:59 - Betrayal and Its Emotional Consequences

14:41 - Processing Trauma and Emotional Mastery

17:47 - The Depth of Suffering and Empathy

20:08 - Recognizing the Essence of Self

26:15 - Understanding Mental Health Awareness

27:19 - Navigating Trauma in First Responders

29:53 - The Importance of Faith and Mission

31:12 - Metacognition and Self-Awareness

33:16 - The Need for Training in Law Enforcement

34:09 - Prioritizing Mental Health in Law Enforcement

35:48 - The Concept of Brain Health

37:46 - Self-Mastery and Leadership

40:05 - Creating Supportive Communities

42:50 - The Role of Brotherhood in Healing

About Vets And Badges:

Guest: SGT, Edward Buckman, PhD:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/edward-buckman/

Co-Host: Dr. Pamela Seraphine:

https://www.drpamelaseraphine.com/

Host: Robert Asencio is a retired police Captain, former Florida State Representative, US Army Veteran who served as a member of the Special Operations community with over 34 years of public service experience.

Vets and Badges Podcast is an initiative of HEALING - a non-profit created to support veterans, first responder and community stakeholders.

For more visit:

https://www.kbcf.org/programs/healing-corp/

Source, B-Roll:

TMZ, UT Public Safety

Video:

LiveNOW from FOX

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=38PQTPZnSRw

NBC 6 South Florida

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x1xcfLWshH0

Richard French Live

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UpmHxn6NIIA

Info@VetsAndBadges.com

www.VetsAndBadges.com

VAB - 2025

On Vets And Badges this conversation explores the challenges faced by law enforcement officers, particularly in relation to mental health, trauma, and the emotional toll of their work. Officer Milton Montes de Oca shares his career journey to becoming a mental health therapist for the City of Sweetwater PD, emphasizing the importance of building trust within the police community and addressing the stigma surrounding mental health. The discussion also highlights the impact of losing colleagues in the line of duty and the necessity of support systems for officers dealing with trauma and grief.

Chapters

00:00 - The Reality of Law Enforcement Danger

03:07 - Transitioning from Officer to Mental Health Therapist

05:59 - Building Trust in Law Enforcement

08:51 - The Impact of Trauma on Officers

12:01 - Coping Mechanisms and Risky Behaviors

15:00 - The Importance of Support Systems

17:55 - Navigating Identity as a Police Officer

21:10 - Advice for First Responders in Crisis

24:05 - The Emotional Toll of Losing a Colleague

26:53 - Maintaining Professionalism Amidst Grief

29:47 - The Role of Law Enforcement in Society

33:07 - Leading by Example in Law Enforcement

Takeaways:

- Police work involves inherent danger and risks.

- The loss of an officer affects the entire community.

- Transitioning from officer to therapist can provide valuable insights.

- Building trust in law enforcement is crucial for mental health support.

- Officers often struggle with their identity outside of work.

- Trauma can lead to risky behaviors if not addressed.

- Support systems are essential for coping with stress and trauma.

- It's important for officers to seek help without stigma.

- The emotional impact of losing a colleague is profound.

- Law enforcement's role is to enforce the law, not to punish.

#videopodcast

#mentalhealth

#supportsystem

Source, B-Roll: WPLG

https://youtu.be/vantg50WJzk?si=myXk1AK06bKqpa6h

Recorded at Miami's Community News studios:https://CommunityNewspapers.com

About Vets And Badges Host:

Robert Asencio is a retired police Captain, former Florida State Representative, US Army Veteran who served as a member of the Special Operations community with over 34 years of public service experience.

Vets and Badges Podcast is an initiative of HEALING - a non-profit created to support veterans, first responder and community stakeholders.

For more visit:

American Legion Richard L. Cromartie Post 374 Commander Michael King hosts speaker Robert Asencio. #heroes

Video provided by https://www.KBCF.org

Watch entire memorial at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qxncgiMo4L8&t=966s

About Vets And Badges Host:

Robert Asencio is a retired police Captain, former Florida State Representative, US Army Veteran who served as a member of the Special Operations community with over 34 years of public service experience.

Vets and Badges Podcast is an initiative of HEALING - a non-profit created to support veterans, first responder and community stakeholders.

For more visit:

https://www.kbcf.org/programs/healing-corp/

Info@VetsAndBadges.com

www.VetsAndBadges.com

VAB - 2025

#neuroscience - Speakers explore the power of meditation to unlock the ones power of recovery from combat, life's changes and self created obstacles to success by veterans and first responders.

#veterans

#firstresponders

#wellness

Guests:

- US Army MSG. Jeremy T. Gann, Ret.

- Dr. Pamela Seraphine, Neuroscientist

https://www.drpamelaseraphine.com/

Vets and Badges Podcast is an initiative of HEALING - a non-profit created to support veterans, first responder and community stakeholders.

To learn more click: https://youtu.be/Dfe6NaM3lPE?si=OnseAtBQqfX0-a43

For more visit

https://www.kbcf.org/programs/healing-corp/

Info@VetsAndBadges.com

www.VetsAndBadges.com

VAB - 2025