The Next Shift Podcast
This is a podcast dedicated to serving current and former law enforcement, by sharing the stories of my own personal transition out of law enforcement, lessons learned through the transition and since, as well as the stories of officers who’ve also transitioned out, their significant others to gain that perspective, and resources for embracing their Next Shift.
It is MY mission to help YOU remember who you are/were behind the badge by helping you REdiscover your identity, REdefine your purpose, and REignite your passions so that you can create the life you WANT to live.
The Next Shift Podcast
A career-ending call, that was almost life-ending...twice
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This week's episode is an important and impactful conversation with Meagan McCarthy...a former Deputy from California, with one helluva story. One thing I love about Meagan's story, is that she is still figuring out what life after law enforcement looks like...six years out. *TRIGGER WARNING: SUICIDE
Meagan is a LEO wife, a mom, speaker, advocate for law enforcement...especially in the realm of mental health, and an entrepreneur.
Meagan talks about getting married young, becoming a single mom, going to nursing school, and having a friend convince her to do a ride along. Like many of us, Meagan was sold on the job after doing that ride along.
She worked the jail for 6 months, then spent time in various units throughout her career, and her last assignment prior to her career ending was SRO. As an SRO, Meagan handled child abuse cases and said investigations was her favorite role. In fact, June of 2019, she was about to be promoted to detective...so she had to work some road shifts.
Meagan recounted the details of the call that ended her career...where a suspect was able to get her gun and shoot at her...but thankfully missed. She also recounted everything that comes after a critical incident...the questions, the doubts, the fears, the unknown, the trial...and even a suicide attempt. Thankfully, once again, her life was spared and she is WILLING to share her story to save others.
Since medically retiring with PTSD in 2022, Meagan has written a book, been a Fox News contributor, has been involved with CA politics (especially involving LEOs), has spoken at numerous conferences, and now runs a successful health and wellness business via social media.
Make sure you connect with Meagan on Instagram, here, and LinkedIn, here.
If you are in need of immediate crisis assistance, PLEASE CALL any one of the below trusted/vetted resources:
National Suicide Hotline: 988
COPLINE: 1-800-COPLINE (267-5463)
First Responder Crisis Support Hotline: 1-844-550-HERO (4376)
If you haven't already...make sure you follow me on LinkedIn and on Instagram at @_nextshift_ AND @the_jessflores
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See you Next Shift