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This episode of Sirens, Slammers and Service takes you behind the reins of one of policing’s most unique and powerful units. Nikki is joined by Robin Koltusky, Mounted Patrol Team Lead with the Calgary Police Service and AWIPS Civilian of the Year 2025, for a deep dive into what it really takes to run a modern mounted unit.

Robin shares her unconventional path into policing—from a lifetime in horsemanship and entrepreneurship to becoming a civilian subject matter expert within CPS—and how that expertise helped reshape the Mounted Unit’s breeding program, herd assessment, and training standards.

We break down the four operational portfolios of Mounted Patrol—frontline patrol, community engagement, search, and public safety support—plus the intense tactical training horses and officers undergo, including desensitization to crowds, noise, footing, and chaos. If you’ve ever wondered how officers and horses are selected, trained, and deployed when it matters most, this episode delivers.

🐎 Curious about other specialized units and behind-the-scenes roles in public safety?
Check out our related episodes—and don’t forget to tune in to Nikki every Wednesday on the Thin Line Rock Station for more real talk from the front lines.

Garett Martin, Mortgage Broker with The Mortgage Group, our official podcast sponsor for Season 10 and supports other first responders by offering discounted mortgage rates and industry-leading service.
cell: 403.915.1025
email: garett.martin@mortgagegroup.com
web: garettmartinmortgages.com

Blue Line Fitness Testing is a premier law enforcement fitness testing and training center based in Edmonton. Specializing in helping individuals prepare for the physical demands of a career in law enforcement, we offer comprehensive fitness evaluations, specialized training programs, and classes tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients.

Support the show

Want to support this podcast even more! Make a monthly subscription for only $3 a month here!

Interested in becoming a first responder? Reach out to learn more!
Email - info@bluelinefitnesstesting.com
Blue Line Fitness Testing
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/bluelinefitnesstesting
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bluelinefitnesstesting/
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In this solo episode of Sirens, Slammers and Service, Nikki gets real—no filters, no fluff. Drawing from lived experience, she breaks down 15 hard truths every first responder needs to hear, especially early in their career.

We talk about why keeping your work life and personal life separate actually matters, the reality of “work friends” and situational relationships, and the uncomfortable truth that this job isn’t fair—and never will be. This episode is honest, grounding, and meant to help you navigate the career with clearer eyes and stronger boundaries.

If you’re new to the job, feeling burned out, or just need someone to say the quiet parts out loud—this one’s for you.

🎧 Hit play, then check out our other related episodes for more real talk from the front lines.
📻 And don’t forget to tune in to Nikki every Wednesday on the Thin Line Rock Station for even more unfiltered conversations.

Garett Martin, Mortgage Broker with The Mortgage Group, our official podcast sponsor for Season 10 and supports other first responders by offering discounted mortgage rates and industry-leading service.
cell: 403.915.1025
email: garett.martin@mortgagegroup.com
web: garettmartinmortgages.com

Blue Line Fitness Testing is a premier law enforcement fitness testing and training center based in Edmonton. Specializing in helping individuals prepare for the physical demands of a career in law enforcement, we offer comprehensive fitness evaluations, specialized training programs, and classes tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients.

Support the show

Want to support this podcast even more! Make a monthly subscription for only $3 a month here!

Interested in becoming a first responder? Reach out to learn more!
Email - info@bluelinefitnesstesting.com
Blue Line Fitness Testing
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/bluelinefitnesstesting
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bluelinefitnesstesting/
LinkedIn - Nikki Cloutier

Send us a text

In this episode of Sirens, Slammers and Service, Nikki sits down with Helen Dugdale—psychotherapist, science lover, and soon-to-be two-time author—to dig into the gut-brain connection, sleep, anxiety, and why your nervous system is calling the shots more than you think.

Helen breaks down how sleep deprivation wrecks emotional control, why first responders can’t rely on gut instinct alone, and how mental fitness starts with simple habits: brain dumping before bed, getting your body moving, reinforcing self-worth, and learning to separate emotion from logic when the stakes are high.

We chat about her book Put Insomnia to Sleep, her upcoming release Overcoming Anxiety, and real-world strategies anyone working shifts can start using tonight.

If your sleep, stress, or mental bandwidth is stretched thin, this episode is for you.

Learn more from Helen - https://www.australianbraincoaching.com.au/

helen@australianbraincoaching.com.au

Check out our other wellness-focused episodes on Sirens, Slammers and Service! And if you like what you hear, you can catch Nikki every Wednesday on the Thin Line Rock Station.

Garett Martin, Mortgage Broker with The Mortgage Group, our official podcast sponsor for Season 10 and supports other first responders by offering discounted mortgage rates and industry-leading service.
cell: 403.915.1025
email: garett.martin@mortgagegroup.com
web: garettmartinmortgages.com

Blue Line Fitness Testing is a premier law enforcement fitness testing and training center based in Edmonton. Specializing in helping individuals prepare for the physical demands of a career in law enforcement, we offer comprehensive fitness evaluations, specialized training programs, and classes tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients.

Support the show

Want to support this podcast even more! Make a monthly subscription for only $3 a month here!

Interested in becoming a first responder? Reach out to learn more!
Email - info@bluelinefitnesstesting.com
Blue Line Fitness Testing
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/bluelinefitnesstesting
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bluelinefitnesstesting/
LinkedIn - Nikki Cloutier

Send us a text

In this powerful episode of Sirens, Slammers and Service, Nikki sits down with Dr. Katherine Rolfe, a registered psychologist and former member of both the military and the Edmonton Police Service, to explore the deeply personal journey of serving—and the challenges of stepping away after more than 20 years in uniform.

Dr. Rolfe shares the emotional landscape of leaving a first responder identity behind and explains how sanctuary trauma—organizational betrayal or lack of support—can intensify PTSD and drive burnout in even the strongest professionals. She offers straightforward, actionable guidance for those still in the job:

• Get a therapist early—don’t wait until crisis hits.
• Keep structure and work-life balance to maintain perspective.
• Move the emotions through the body—running, physical activity, and movement matter.
• Talk about what you go through, so isolation doesn’t take over.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone in frontline service or supporting someone who is. Don’t miss this candid and validating conversation—and be sure to check out Balance Psychology to learn more about building resilience and protecting your mental health.

https://www.balancepsychservices.ca/

info@balancepsychservices.ca

Garett Martin, Mortgage Broker with The Mortgage Group, our official podcast sponsor for Season 10 and supports other first responders by offering discounted mortgage rates and industry-leading service.
cell: 403.915.1025
email: garett.martin@mortgagegroup.com
web: garettmartinmortgages.com

Blue Line Fitness Testing is a premier law enforcement fitness testing and training center based in Edmonton. Specializing in helping individuals prepare for the physical demands of a career in law enforcement, we offer comprehensive fitness evaluations, specialized training programs, and classes tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients.

Support the show

Want to support this podcast even more! Make a monthly subscription for only $3 a month here!

Interested in becoming a first responder? Reach out to learn more!
Email - info@bluelinefitnesstesting.com
Blue Line Fitness Testing
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/bluelinefitnesstesting
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bluelinefitnesstesting/
LinkedIn - Nikki Cloutier

Send us a text

In this episode of Sirens, Slammers and Service, Nikki sits down with Lori Bailey, an Inspector with the City of Calgary Transit’s Community Outreach Team, whose career journey is a powerful example of perseverance and reinvention. Lori shares her path from federal corrections, to teaching at Bow Valley College, to serving in her current role supporting Peace Officers and vulnerable populations on Calgary Transit—while also opening up about her own battle with PTSD and earning her Master’s degree at 52.

Nikki and Lori dig into the realities of working in male-dominated environments, the hypervigilance that can follow corrections officers long after shifts end, and the importance of support systems and self-care for anyone in first responder careers. Lori also offers grounded, practical advice for those considering a career in federal corrections and preparing for the challenges of the job.

Don’t miss this insightful conversation—and be sure to check out upcoming training resources and workshops designed to support the mental health and growth of first responders.

Garett Martin, Mortgage Broker with The Mortgage Group, our official podcast sponsor for Season 10 and supports other first responders by offering discounted mortgage rates and industry-leading service.
cell: 403.915.1025
email: garett.martin@mortgagegroup.com
web: garettmartinmortgages.com

Blue Line Fitness Testing is a premier law enforcement fitness testing and training center based in Edmonton. Specializing in helping individuals prepare for the physical demands of a career in law enforcement, we offer comprehensive fitness evaluations, specialized training programs, and classes tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients.

Support the show

Want to support this podcast even more! Make a monthly subscription for only $3 a month here!

Interested in becoming a first responder? Reach out to learn more!
Email - info@bluelinefitnesstesting.com
Blue Line Fitness Testing
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/bluelinefitnesstesting
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bluelinefitnesstesting/
LinkedIn - Nikki Cloutier

Send us a text

In this episode of Sirens, Slammers and Service, Nikki sits down with Marci Gonder, Chief of Public Vehicle Standards with the City of Calgary, whose impressive and unconventional path through law enforcement and leadership is nothing short of inspiring. From her early days as a casual Sheriff to serving in Executive Protection for three Alberta Premiers, Marci shares the pivotal moments and mentors that shaped her 20+ year career.

She opens up about her time working with the Tsuut’ina Nation, her involvement with AWIPS mentorship, and the “hard truths” that pushed her toward growth and leadership. Marci also discusses her humble leadership style, the lessons learned from her father’s emotional intelligence, and her mission to remove barriers for frontline staff.

Tune in for an honest, engaging conversation about resilience, mentorship, and leading with heart—and don’t forget to check out the upcoming AWIPS workshops and mentorship opportunities!

Garett Martin, Mortgage Broker with The Mortgage Group, our official podcast sponsor for Season 10 and supports other first responders by offering discounted mortgage rates and industry-leading service.
cell: 403.915.1025
email: garett.martin@mortgagegroup.com
web: garettmartinmortgages.com

Blue Line Fitness Testing is a premier law enforcement fitness testing and training center based in Edmonton. Specializing in helping individuals prepare for the physical demands of a career in law enforcement, we offer comprehensive fitness evaluations, specialized training programs, and classes tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients.

Support the show

Want to support this podcast even more! Make a monthly subscription for only $3 a month here!

Interested in becoming a first responder? Reach out to learn more!
Email - info@bluelinefitnesstesting.com
Blue Line Fitness Testing
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/bluelinefitnesstesting
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bluelinefitnesstesting/
LinkedIn - Nikki Cloutier

Send us a text

Nikki Cloutier sits down with Dr. Kimberly Bitz from the Canadian Institute for Public Safety Research and Treatment (CIPSRT) to unpack the tools and resources helping first responders protect their mental health. From PSPNET’s online therapy options to CIPSRT’s Mental Health Toolkit, Dr. Bitz breaks down practical strategies focused on self-awareness, regulation, connection, and recovery—all designed specifically for public safety personnel.

👉 Check out CIPSRT’s resources and upcoming workshops to take the next step in protecting your mental health—and share this episode with a colleague who needs to hear it.

Mental health courses/treatment: PSPNET offers free internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy, also known as ICBT. Click here to learn more

CIPSRT's Knowledge for You hub. Be sure to also check out our recent webinar on DBT & EMDR, and our popular Sleep 101 Toolkit.

CIPSRT Store

Peer Connect: Virtual community of practice for PSP across Canada. PSP Connect is a chance for you to network with peers in the public safety sector from coast-to-coast, and to learn about the mental health initiatives

Upcoming events!!!

• CIPSRT Conference 2026: 2 days of keynotes, interactive sessions, and expert-led discussions tailored for current and former first responders. Whether you’re looking to expand your knowledge, connect with peers, or gain insights from industry leaders, this Conference is designed to help you thrive

Garett Martin, Mortgage Broker with The Mortgage Group, our official podcast sponsor for Season 10 and supports other first responders by offering discounted mortgage rates and industry-leading service.
cell: 403.915.1025
email: garett.martin@mortgagegroup.com
web: garettmartinmortgages.com

Blue Line Fitness Testing is a premier law enforcement fitness testing and training center based in Edmonton. Specializing in helping individuals prepare for the physical demands of a career in law enforcement, we offer comprehensive fitness evaluations, specialized training programs, and classes tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients.

Support the show

Want to support this podcast even more! Make a monthly subscription for only $3 a month here!

Interested in becoming a first responder? Reach out to learn more!
Email - info@bluelinefitnesstesting.com
Blue Line Fitness Testing
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/bluelinefitnesstesting
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bluelinefitnesstesting/
LinkedIn - Nikki Cloutier

Send us a text

From mountain rescues to fire-lit canvases, Shauna Liora’s journey is anything but ordinary. With 13 years in Alberta search and rescue—including high-stakes missions with Canada Task Force 2 such as the Fort McMurray wildfire—Shauna knows what it takes to prepare for the unexpected. Now a full-time artist, she transforms fire into breathtaking works of art, inspired by her time in the field and an unforgettable spark from an Indigenous artist and a fire safety officer.

In this episode, Shauna shares wild rescue stories, the realities of SAR life, and how creativity became both therapy and passion. Don’t miss this conversation about resilience, reinvention, and following the call to something new.

👉 Listen now and check out Shauna’s incredible artwork—you won’t see fire the same way again. Use our exclusive code BLFT10 AND SAVE 10% on FireArt creations!!!

• Website: www.fireart.ca
• Email: shauna@fireart.ca
• FB & IG: @fireartbyshauna

Garett Martin, Mortgage Broker with The Mortgage Group, is our official podcast sponsor for Season 9 and supports other first responders by offering discounted mortgage rates, flexible communication, and industry-leading service.

Learn more
https://garettmartinmortgages.com

Blue Line Fitness Testing is a premier law enforcement fitness testing and training center based in Edmonton. Specializing in helping individuals prepare for the physical demands of a career in law enforcement, we offer comprehensive fitness evaluations, specialized training programs, and classes tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients.

Support the show

Want to support this podcast even more! Make a monthly subscription for only $3 a month here!

Interested in becoming a first responder? Reach out to learn more!
Email - info@bluelinefitnesstesting.com
Blue Line Fitness Testing
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/bluelinefitnesstesting
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/bluelinefitnesstesting/
LinkedIn - Nikki Cloutier