Have a plan before you need it.

The holiday season brings excitement—and dangerous distractions. Between shopping lists, phone notifications, and crowded parking lots, it’s easy to let your guard down. But awareness is your greatest defense. Train yourself to look up, scan your surroundings, notice who’s near your vehicle, and trust your instincts when something feels off.

Distractions make you vulnerable; habits make you safe. Small choices like pocketing your phone, walking with confidence, and asking for help to your car can mean the difference between safety and danger. Don’t ignore that uneasy feeling—it’s your built-in alarm system.

Have a plan before you need it. When something goes wrong, you won’t rise to the occasion—you’ll fall to your level of preparation. Keep your escape plan simple: distract, disengage, and get to safety. Carry an item you can throw to divert attention, know where the exits are, and travel with a friend when possible.

Confidence, awareness, and quick action are your best defense.

Bullet points from today's discussion:

Situational Awareness

• Put your phone away when walking to or from your car or through parking lots.
• Scan your surroundings—people, vehicles, exits, and lighting conditions.
• Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it probably is.
• Don’t dismiss feelings of unease; act on them early.

Planning Ahead

• Have a plan before something happens; simple plans work best under stress.
• Know your escape routes wherever you are (store, parking lot, street, etc.).
• Default to escaping, not fighting—your goal is to get away safely.
• Assume the attacker chose the time and place—you must choose the exit.

Practical Preparedness

• Keep keys in hand, not buried in your purse or pocket.
• Carry a distraction item (like “mugger’s money” or an old phone) to throw and create distance.
• Avoid carrying your only defensive item (like keys or pepper spray) inside a bag that could be stolen.
• Use strong body language—head up, make eye contact, walk confidently.

Increase Your Odds

• Use the buddy system—shop or walk with a friend when possible.
• If you feel unsafe, ask for store staff to walk you to your car.
• If chased or attacked, yell or scream—make noise to draw attention.
• Never obey commands that reduce your chance of escape (e.g., “Get in the car”).

Mindset & Training

• Stay calm—panic clouds judgment.
• Practice your plan mentally; repetition builds muscle memory.
• Consider basic self-defense training to increase confidence and efficiency.
• Remember: good habits today become your automatic reactions tomorrow.

Connect with James, Sifu of Wah Lum Kung Fu :

https://www.wahlumkungfu.com/

Melbourne, FL 32935

(321) 255-1048

Message to Sifu Lo: sifu@wahlumkungfu.com

Training Information: info@wahlumkungfu.com

Support the show

"A child doesn’t care how much you know till they know how much you care," ~ Kenya

From a nine-year crack addiction to 28 years of sobriety and service, John’s story shows the power of surrender and redemption. On July 22, 1995, sitting in a jail cell after being arrested for stealing, he prayed: “Lord, if you could just take this desire away… I’ll serve you till I die.” Nearly three decades later, John has kept that promise, living free from drugs, alcohol, and cigarettes, and dedicating his life to serving others.

What began as court-ordered community service grew into a lifelong mission. Guided by his mentor, Mr. Lundy, John went from serving at a soup kitchen to leading Feed the Lambs Enrichment Program with his wife, Kenya. Together, they provide tutoring, mentoring, camps, meals, and experiences that help children feel seen, cared for, and empowered. John’s story isn’t just about personal change—it’s about creating ripples of hope that impact generations.

Feed the Lambs Enrichment Program, Inc. is a 501(c)3 nonprofit dedicated to serving underprivileged, low-income youth and families throughout Indian River County.

Website: https://www.feedthelambsep.com/

Address
1615 18th Avenue SW
Vero Beach, FL 32962

Program Future Location:
1175 9th St. S.W. Vero Beach FL 32962

Phone: 772.501.2617

John May, Executive Director: 772.501.2617

Kenya May, Program Director: 772.404.9955

Connect with Jen:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935
Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
Purchase my book or Audiobook:
https://whyisurvived.com/

Support the show

Theresa’s courage proves that even after 17 years of silence, a voice can rise stronger than the violence that tried to silence it.

When Teresa heard glass shatter that Saturday morning in March 2007, she had no idea her life was about to change forever. What followed was a horrific sexual assault in her own home—a place that should have been her sanctuary. For eighteen years she has carried this trauma, reliving it each March through recurring nightmares. Despite a thorough police investigation that linked her attacker to multiple assaults across two countries, he was never caught—leaving her without the closure conventional justice might have provided.

Yet Teresa’s resilience defines her story, not the violence. Raised by government investigator parents, she stayed alert during the attack, noticing critical details that helped police, and when the chance came to escape, she took it with courage. Rather than remain in “victim-hood,” Teresa returned to her apartment, faced her fears, and leaned on faith, therapy, supportive friends, her pets and artistic expression to reclaim her voice. Now, by sharing her story, she hopes to reach others still suffering in silence: Feel empowered to go forward, tell your story with God guiding you.”

If you or someone you know is a victim of sexual assault, visit:

https://rainn.org for free, confidential support.

National hotline: Available 24 hours. 1-800-656-4673

Connect with Jen:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived: How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
https://whyisurvived.com/

Support the show

One night on a dark New Orleans street, Ashley was held at gunpoint. But instead of panicking, she did something unexpected—she hugged the mugger. That moment of compassion wasn’t random; it was the result of a life shaped by trauma and healing. Ashley had learned that unhealed pain often repeats across generations, and she was determined to break that cycle—for herself and others.

With a Harvard background in data and AI, Ashley could have chosen a traditional path. Instead, she built Persephone AI—a discreet, encrypted app that helps domestic violence survivors safely document abuse, create escape plans, and stay in control of their stories. It’s a lifeline for those with nowhere else to turn. Now, Ashley is calling on all of us—advocates, technologists, and everyday allies—to stand with survivors and bring real safety into the digital age. Join the movement. Share the message. Be part of the change.

Learn more: https://persephone.ai

Connect with Jen:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived: How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
https://whyisurvived.com/

Support the show

Some heroes don't wear capes—they open their garage doors.

Jason's bimonthly poker nights have become a sacred space for military personnel and first responders seeking something deeper than cards: genuine brotherhood.

Behind the camaraderie lies Jason’s own battle—his service in the Coast Guard exposed him to trauma that embedded deep, leading to PTSD, and later, injuries during his time in the Army. Like many who serve, he struggled with vulnerability—finding it harder to ask for help than to face danger. Trained to be strong and self-reliant, he wasn’t prepared for a life where even basic tasks required assistance.

A year into recovery and at the brink of ending his life, Jason made a life-saving call to a friend—an act of courage that sparked a mission. Now CEO of Alpha Ready Company, and Alpha Ready clothing brand, he uses his experience to build community and create safe, stigma-free spaces for healing.

As a Christian, husband, father, and Podcaster, he reminds others that strength isn't in silence, but in connection. His story proves that purpose can rise from pain—and that sometimes, the most powerful battles are fought not in uniform, but around a garage table filled with hurting heroes learning to heal.

Connect with Jason:

Instagram: alpha_ready_com

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@alphareadyco

Website: https://alphareadyco.com/

Order your Alpha Ready t-shirt today! 🇺🇸
Proudly Donating 25% of Monthly Earnings to
Military, Veteran & First Responder Charities

Connect with Jen:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/

YouTube: @ineedblue

Facebook: I Need Blue Podcast

Website: https://ineedblue.net/

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/62R7ZEcZIp4gqtCVxgqRsv

Purchase my book or Audiobook:
https://ineedblue.net/author

Support the show

As a child, Adam watched police cars race past his window, dreaming of becoming an “ER car man.” That dream came true through military service and police work—until a call to Walmart on April 8, 2016, changed everything. Confronted by a woman with a hatchet, Adam made a split-second decision to use deadly force. Though cleared by investigators, the incident triggered a silent battle with PTSD. “I knew what I had done. I changed lives. I took her life, I changed my life,” he says.

What follows is a brutally honest account of self-destruction. Adam reveals how he drowned his trauma in alcohol, numbed himself through casual encounters, and pushed away those who cared about him. Most shocking is the institutional response—after years of exemplary service, his department issued a cease-and-desist order to stop speaking about his mental health and eventually terminated him. “I was completely ghosted by everybody,” Adam recalls.

After proper mental health treatment arranged by his sister, Adam returned to policing as a captain at a department that actively supports his mental health advocacy. He now works to shatter the stigma around first responder trauma through his organization.

Do you know someone struggling with invisible wounds? Adam's message is clear: healing is possible, help is available, and no one should suffer in silence.

Connect with Adam:

Website: StopTheThreatStopTheStigma.org

Email: adam@stopthethreatstopthestigma.org

Connect with Jen:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived: How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
https://whyisurvived.com/

Support the show

When tragedy struck Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in 2018, Laura—a licensed school psychologist—found herself on the front lines of grief and trauma. But amid the heartbreak, she witnessed something remarkable: therapy dogs offering comfort in ways words couldn't. That experience sparked the creation of Everyday Feathers Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to supporting families facing canine cancer while promoting mental health through the healing power of dogs.

Laura's journey from educator to mental health advocate deepened her belief in the human-animal bond. "Dogs aren't just pets, they're family," she says, highlighting how they ease loneliness, provide comfort, and help ground us during emotional crises. Everyday Feathers Foundation grew from this understanding, creating a space where both people and their dogs receive care during life’s toughest moments. This conversation offers powerful insights into how love, resilience, and the presence of a loyal companion can light the way through darkness.

Connect with Laura:

Email: hello@everydayfeathers.org

Website: https://www.everydayfeathers.org/

Submit request for Broody Blessings: https://www.everydayfeathers.org/

Donate: https://www.everydayfeathers.org/donatenow

Connect with Jen:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935
Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.
Purchase my book or Audiobook:
https://whyisurvived.com/

Support the show

When the unthinkable happens without warning, how do we find our way through the darkness of grief? Diane’s world shifted forever when her husband Harry passed away suddenly in January, just days after returning from what would be their final vacation. What began as minor indigestion on a cruise excursion turned out to be something far more serious. Despite zip-lining and horseback riding without complaint, Harry was unknowingly living with three severely blocked arteries. His cardiologist would later say it was medically impossible for someone to function as he did.

In this emotional episode, Diane shares the raw details of Harry’s final moments—the collapse at home, the rush to the hospital, and the heartbreak of letting him go as their wedding song, Billy Joel’s Just the Way You Are, played. She opens up about the different ways her family is navigating grief and reflects on their 41-year love story rooted in faith, laughter, and meaningful memories. Her words are a gentle reminder that while grief never fully disappears, it becomes something we learn to carry—with grace, faith, and unexpected moments of joy.

Connect with Diane:

Email:DZIZZO01@att.net

Connect with Jen:
Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/ineedbluepodcast/
YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCp1q8SfA_hEXRJ4EaizlW8Q
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567221068683
Website:
https://ineedblue.net/
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-need-blue/id1567450935

Loved this episode? Leave a review and rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

Purchase my book or Audiobook: Why I Survived: How Sharing My Story Helped Me Heal from Dating Abuse, Armed Robbery, Abduction, and Other Forms of Trauma by Jennifer Lee
https://whyisurvived.com/

Support the show