138: Lessons in Police work and BURN OUT w/ author and ret. LEO Joshua Hood

Blue Grit Radio : the Police Wellness, Leadership, Culture and Mindset podcast

In this episode, I am pleased to introduce you to former LEO, SWAT cop, and author Joshua Hood. We talk about his entry into the policing career after his military service and the experiences therein.
We connect on the toll and strain he felt in his career, and how he started writing more regularly. There are parallels we experienced and saw in police around us- that absolutely became overarching themes in his new novel, Burn Out.
We talk about the book- which I got a chance to read in advance- which features different first responders at different stages of their careers and prerogatives. Themes of identity, overinvestment, purpose, and calling are central. Beyond that- it’s got smoke jumping forest fire fighters, Feds against Feds, cartel mercenaries, informants, and grizzled Vets… a saga ripe with action!
It was a sincere pleasure and a dynamic conversation for you all- whether you’re a first responder or not!
Joshua Hood joined the army after graduating with an English degree from the University of Memphis and served as a squad leader with the 1-508th Parachute Infantry Regiment in Afghanistan, where he was decorated for valor in Operation Furious Pursuit.
A former SWAT team member with the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department in Memphis, Tennessee, he is a USA Today bestselling author of several books, including Robert Ludlum’s Treadstone series. He lives in Collierville, Tennessee, with his wife and two children.

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music credit: Drive by AShamaluevMusic