April 24, 2024

Unboxing The Cop Box: Brotherhood, Healing, and Growth | S4 E17

On this compelling episode, we reunite three distinguished law enforcement veterans: retired Chief John Monaghan, retired Chief Douglas Wyman, and retired New Hampshire State Police Sergeant James Steinmetz. These three friends, previously featured in the impactful film "Inside the Box," come together once more to delve into profound discussions on camaraderie, support, and the journey of healing and growth following service-related trauma.

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Responder Resilience

In this compelling episode, we reunite three distinguished law enforcement veterans: retired Chief John Monaghan, retired Chief Douglas Wyman, and retired New Hampshire State Police Sergeant James Steinmetz. These three friends, previously featured in the impactful film "Inside the Box," come together once more to delve into profound discussions on camaraderie, support, and the journey of healing and growth following service-related trauma.

Throughout the episode, John, Doug, and Jamey explore the critical concepts of the "Cop Box" and the "Man Box," examining how these societal and cultural constructs have influenced their mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being since the film's debut. They candidly share their personal evolutions, shedding light on the transformative power of vulnerability, mutual support, and the pursuit of post-traumatic growth. This conversation uncovers the layers of resilience forged through struggle and the importance of being a steadfast brother's keeper within the law enforcement community.

Moreover, the trio offers invaluable advice to fellow officers who may be struggling in silence, emphasizing the strength found in sharing one's story and the critical need to challenge and change organizational cultures that stigmatize mental health issues. By using their own experiences with post-traumatic stress, grief, substance use, and suicidal ideation as powerful examples, they aim to inspire a shift towards more supportive, understanding, and mentally healthy law enforcement agencies. Join us for an episode that not only aims to overcome stigma and bias but also lights the path to a healthier service life for those who protect and serve.

John Monaghan IIIProfile Photo

John Monaghan III

Retired Police Chief | Retired State Trooper | Consultant | Instructor

John is a retired police chief with over 20 years in law enforcement. He worked as a municipal officer, State Trooper and Police Chief in New Hampshire. After retiring John consulted and facilitated focus groups and educational workshops in equity, mental wellness, resilience, and organizational development. John regularly presents on wellness, social justice causes, and police-community relations. He was featured in the 2019 Nantucket Project documentary film “The Box”. In his spare time John enjoys riding bikes, cross-country skiing, performing comedy, and recently thought it would be a good idea to take up Jiu Jitsu. John is a consultant at The Center for Policing Equity.