Half Serious

E41: EMDR, Trauma, OCD, and Getting Out of the End of Life Whirlpool

In this insightful interview, trauma therapist Austin Bridges discusses the nuances of trauma diagnosis, the importance of stability in therapy, and innovative approaches like intensives and retreats for healing. He emphasizes the significance of understanding individual experiences over labels and shares practical strategies for mental health support. Austin shares insights on mental health support for law enforcement, innovative approaches to trauma care, and the importance of accessible therapy. Discover practical solutions, mental health frameworks, and personal stories that highlight the need for systemic change and individual resilience. You said you want a better life, and a better way to cope. Time to show up for yourself and start researching a better way to heal and live.  > austinbridgestherapy.com [http://austinbridgestherapy.com/] > youtube.com/@ABTherapy > tiktok.com/@austinbridgestherapy Website now up! [https://www.halfseriouspodcast.com/]- yep and we have merch! TRIGGER WARNING should be assumed with all episodes. This is real life with real problems. But along with that is real advice on how they got through it. Listen long enough and you may find the thing that gets you over that next hurdle. Feel  free to reach out if you would like to be a guest or share with someone you think should be. We are always looking for new people that have a story to tell.  Email: tess@halfseriousllc.com

E40: FLUFFER, Leaving Policing, Social Media, and Your Other Questions

You guys asked for it, so here is another FLUFFER episode. In this episode I answer some of the questions you guys have submitted and elaborate perhaps too much on the topics. We hit on a variety of topics this episode but if you feel like something else needed to be addressed, feel free to contact us and let us know.  In this episdoe I share insight on leaving policing, personal growth, and embracing new life chapters in a very candid way. I also discusses the emotional journey of transitioning from law enforcement, the importance of self-identity beyond work, and personal achievements... or lack there of. Enjoy this FLUFFER, or don't want just skip it until we have another guest episode come on. Not harm no foul.  Website now up! [https://www.halfseriouspodcast.com/]- yep and we have merch! TRIGGER WARNING should be assumed with all episodes. This is real life with real problems. But along with that is real advice on how they got through it. Listen long enough and you may find the thing that gets you over that next hurdle. Feel  free to reach out if you would like to be a guest or share with someone you think should be. We are always looking for new people that have a story to tell.  Email: tess@halfseriousllc.com

E39: Successful Recovery, Alcoholism, and Aggressive Truths

Addiction is a complex issue that many face, and often the approaches to treatment can feel too soft or ineffective. If you’re searching for a more direct method to tackle addiction issues, you’re in the right place. In this discussion, we’ll explore tough love strategies that can make a real difference for those struggling with addiction. We’ll also delve into why these methods resonate and how they can lead to better outcomes. Dr Robb Kelly has accomplished something most never think will happen for them. He started by digging himself out of an early grave that he drank himself into, by first investing in himself, then investing everything in everyone else needing this same help.  It was a great conversation and thank you Dr Robb for coming on the show. Always a pleasure.  Robb Kelly Recovery Group [https://robbkelly.com/] Instagram @Addiction_Doctor Website now up! [https://www.halfseriouspodcast.com/]- yep and we have merch! TRIGGER WARNING should be assumed with all episodes. This is real life with real problems. But along with that is real advice on how they got through it. Listen long enough and you may find the thing that gets you over that next hurdle. Feel  free to reach out if you would like to be a guest or share with someone you think should be. We are always looking for new people that have a story to tell.  Email: tess@halfseriousllc.com

E38: Interview with a Killer, How He Chose the Victims, and Why Hair Length Matters

This episode features an in-depth interview with author Chelsea Noel about her book 'Beyond the Path,' which explores the chilling case of the bike path serial killer and her unique experience of befriending him to uncover his story. We discuss the psychological complexities of criminal interviews, the emotional toll on law enforcement and writers, and the fascinating insights into the mind of a long-time criminal. We also touch on her personal life which  compounded the trauma that led her to get fatherly advice from a serial killer.  BOOK: The Family wants a Conviction [https://www.amazon.com/family-wants-conviction-Chelsea-Noel/dp/B0F8JDNDNB] Book: Beyond the Path (Bike Path Rapist/Killer) [https://www.amazon.com/Beyond-Path-Chelsea-Noel/dp/B0FTVGH1TS?ref_=ast_author_mpb] Here is her Website [https://noelnovels.mystrikingly.com/]  Instagram is @noel.novels  Website now up! [https://www.halfseriouspodcast.com/]- yep and we have merch! TRIGGER WARNING should be assumed with all episodes. This is real life with real problems. But along with that is real advice on how they got through it. Listen long enough and you may find the thing that gets you over that next hurdle. Feel  free to reach out if you would like to be a guest or share with someone you think should be. We are always looking for new people that have a story to tell.  Email: tess@halfseriousllc.com

E37: PTSD911 Movie, Helping the Caregivers, and Leadership's Responsibility

Tess sits down with Conrad Weaver to unpack what it truly takes to protect the longevity, mental health, and sanity of first responders working one of the most psychologically demanding career paths imaginable. Together, they dive into why leadership must make a real investment in the people behind the badge, sirens, and uniforms—and how departments can do better before burnout, trauma, and isolation take their toll. First responders are routinely exposed to the darkest moments humanity has to offer. While the average person may experience only a handful of traumatic incidents in their lifetime, many first responders will witness hundreds—sometimes more than 800—over the course of their careers. Those numbers are staggering, and they come with a cost that can no longer be ignored. That reality is exactly why Conrad viewed the PTSD911 project as one of the most important works of his career. His passion for changing the culture surrounding mental health in emergency services is powerful and deeply inspiring. Even without a personal stake in the profession, he recognized a critical need and committed himself to creating awareness, sparking conversation, and helping drive a movement focused on supporting the mental wellness of the people who spend their lives protecting everyone else. If you are interested in the movies or supporting the future endeavors of it, please see the links below.  The PTSD911 Movie [https://ptsd911movie.com/] First Responder Wellness [https://firstresponderwellness.co/] Kickstarter for their next project should be up and running: Code Red: A Cardiac Wake up Call  Website now up! [https://www.halfseriouspodcast.com/]- yep and we have merch! TRIGGER WARNING should be assumed with all episodes. This is real life with real problems. But along with that is real advice on how they got through it. Listen long enough and you may find the thing that gets you over that next hurdle. Feel  free to reach out if you would like to be a guest or share with someone you think should be. We are always looking for new people that have a story to tell.  Email: tess@halfseriousllc.com