S5 - E43: Susan Simons - Under the Shield

Episode Summary: In this episode, Susan Simons, president and founder of Under the Shield, discusses her journey in law enforcement and the evolution of her organization, which focuses on mental health support for first responders. She introduces the psychological garbage can theory, emphasizing the importance of addressing stress and trauma in law enforcement. The conversation highlights the stigma surrounding mental health, the need for public awareness, and the significance of resiliency training. Susan shares insights on the importance of preventative measures and training programs to support officers and their families, ultimately aiming to reduce suicide rates and improve overall well-being in the law enforcement community.

Susan's BIO: Susan Lewis Simons, M.S., B.C.E.T.S., F.A.A.E.T.S.
President & Founder, Under the Shield, Inc.
Susan Lewis Simons is the President and Founder of Under the Shield, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization she launched in 1992. For over three decades, Susan has been recognized nationally and internationally as a subject-matter expert in Law Enforcement and Military Stress and Post-Traumatic Stress Injury (PTSI). She is the creator of the Simons Theory of the Psychological Garbage Can—a groundbreaking model written in 1992 that has helped countless individuals in public safety and the military better understand and manage the cumulative effects of trauma. Effective January 1, 2025, this theory will be the AZPOST state standard, required in all Arizona basic academy classes as j part of proficiency training.

Website: http://undertheshield.com/