136: From Marine to Mental Health Advocate: Vulnerability, Connection & Compassion with Joe Smarro

The Modern Man

In this episode of the Modern Man Podcast, host Ted Phaeton speaks with Joe Smarro, a decorated Marine Corps veteran and mental health advocate. Joe shares his troubled upbringing, including experiences of childhood abuse and the challenges he faced as a young father. He discusses his journey through military service and law enforcement, ultimately leading him to focus on mental health advocacy. Joe emphasizes the importance of connection, compassion, and personal growth while addressing the need for better mental health training within law enforcement.

The conversation highlights the significance of taking ownership of one's life and the power of vulnerability in fostering genuine connections. In this conversation, Joe Smarro and Ted Phaeton explore the intricate relationship between law enforcement and communities, emphasizing the need for trust and understanding. Joe shares his journey from a fearful police officer to a compassionate public servant, highlighting the importance of empathy and connection in de-escalation tactics. They discuss the challenges of entrepreneurship, the significance of quality time in parenting, and the necessity of self-care for better relationships. Joe also introduces his book 'Unarmed', which focuses on communication and compassion in law enforcement, and shares personal experiences that shaped his views on behavior and understanding.

Takeaways

• Joe's troubled childhood shaped his mission to help others.
• Military service provided a path for Joe amidst challenges.
• Mental health advocacy is crucial for first responders.
• Gratitude can emerge from painful experiences.
• Choosing a life of intention leads to personal growth.
• Connection and compassion are vital in crisis intervention.
• Self-love is essential for authentic living.
• Training in human skills is necessary for law enforcement.
• Curiosity fosters connection and understanding.
• Vulnerability can lead to deeper relationships. The geographical differences in communities require tailored approaches.
• Building trust takes time and consistent positive interactions.
• Empathy can transform how we perceive threats in law enforcement.
• Public service should focus on uplifting communities, not just enforcing laws.
• Entrepreneurship comes with unique challenges that require adaptability.
• Quality time with children is more impactful than quantity.
• Self-care is essential for being present in relationships.
• Effective communication is key to de-escalation and understanding behavior.
• All human behavior communicates a message that needs to be understood.
• Choosing oneself is crucial for being able to support others.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Modern Man Podcast 05:04 The Journey to Mental Health Advocacy 10:07 Choosing a Path of Intention and Growth 17:09 The Disconnect Between Advice and Action 23:59 Transforming Crisis Intervention in Law Enforcement 30:15 Building Trust Between Communities and Law Enforcement 35:28 The Importance of Quality Time in Parenting 41:58 The Power of Connection and Communication 51:49 Understanding Behavior Through Compassion

Joe Smarro’s Links:

Instagram: @joesmarro

Facebook: joseph.smarro.754

Website: www.joesmarro.com

Website: solutionpointplus.com

Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: If you need emotional support, reach out to the national mental health hotline: Call, Text or Chat 988 988lifeline.org

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