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69_Sonny Gerber Patrol Sergeant
Manage episode 470577343 series 3356752
26 years of law enforcement experience spanning corrections, probation, patrol, narcotics, SWAT, and detective work
Social Media:
I’m honored to introduce a man cut from the same cloth as Steve Odom—another absolute warrior with an incredible journey. Meet Sonny Gerber, a patrol sergeant on the central coast of California with 26 years of law enforcement experience spanning corrections, probation, patrol, narcotics, SWAT, and detective work. A former instructor at a California police academy, Sonny is a court-recognized expert in defensive tactics and holds master instructor certifications in ARCON (arrest and control), baton, taser, tactical communication, active shooter response, and firearms. He’s also a BJJ black belt under Chris Lovato with Paragon BJJ in San Luis Obispo and has tested his skills in Muay Thai, boxing, and MMA. Beyond the fight, Sonny is a certified critical incident stress debriefing mentor and peer support specialist, dedicated to guiding fellow officers through high-stakes and high-stress careers.
As Sonny approaches retirement from law enforcement, Sonny remains focused on pushing for better training and wellness in the profession. He has long advocated for incorporating BJJ fundamentals into defensive tactics programs, and after years of effort, departments across the country are finally adopting this essential training—though there is still much work to be done. He has also witnessed firsthand the lack of mental health resources and wellness support for officers, despite the overwhelming evidence on divorce rates, suicide, and addiction in law enforcement. Thankfully, change is happening, and departments, including his own, are beginning to implement officer wellness programs. Looking ahead, Sonny’s plans to retire healthy, open his own Paragon BJJ school specializing in training law enforcement, and continue mentoring young officers while remaining actively involved in officer wellness initiatives. His journey is one of resilience, dedication, and a relentless commitment to making law enforcement safer and stronger—both on the mats and in life.
Today, we dive deep into the intersection of mental health and law enforcement with Sergeant Sonny Gerber, a 26-year veteran who’s seen it all—SWAT operations, high-stakes encounters, and the personal toll of a life dedicated to service. But this episode isn’t about war stories—it’s about resilience, growth, and breaking the stigma around mental health in policing.
Sonny talks about his own struggles, the lessons he’s learned the hard way, and the powerful tools that helped him turn things around—everything from jiu-jitsu and peer support to breathwork, journaling, and faith-based programs like Mighty Oaks. Whether you’re a first responder, a veteran, or just someone looking to build a stronger mindset, this episode is packed with insights on how to train your body, sharpen your mind, and take back control of your well-being.
Resources Mentioned:
- Mighty Oaks Warrior Program – A faith-based program for first responders and military personnel that provides tools for personal resilience and healing.
- EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Tapping – Techniques used for processing trauma and reducing stress.
- Journaling – Used for processing thoughts, setting goals, and practicing gratitude.
- Biweekly Men’s Group (Mighty Oaks Outpost Meetings) – A support group for public safety professionals that includes Bible study and discussion.
- Breathing Techniques – Includes box breathing, four-count breathing, and guided breathing apps to manage stress and anxiety.
- Dr. Kevin Gilmartin’s Book: Emotional Survival for Law Enforcement – A recomme
72 episodes
Manage episode 470577343 series 3356752
26 years of law enforcement experience spanning corrections, probation, patrol, narcotics, SWAT, and detective work
Social Media:
I’m honored to introduce a man cut from the same cloth as Steve Odom—another absolute warrior with an incredible journey. Meet Sonny Gerber, a patrol sergeant on the central coast of California with 26 years of law enforcement experience spanning corrections, probation, patrol, narcotics, SWAT, and detective work. A former instructor at a California police academy, Sonny is a court-recognized expert in defensive tactics and holds master instructor certifications in ARCON (arrest and control), baton, taser, tactical communication, active shooter response, and firearms. He’s also a BJJ black belt under Chris Lovato with Paragon BJJ in San Luis Obispo and has tested his skills in Muay Thai, boxing, and MMA. Beyond the fight, Sonny is a certified critical incident stress debriefing mentor and peer support specialist, dedicated to guiding fellow officers through high-stakes and high-stress careers.
As Sonny approaches retirement from law enforcement, Sonny remains focused on pushing for better training and wellness in the profession. He has long advocated for incorporating BJJ fundamentals into defensive tactics programs, and after years of effort, departments across the country are finally adopting this essential training—though there is still much work to be done. He has also witnessed firsthand the lack of mental health resources and wellness support for officers, despite the overwhelming evidence on divorce rates, suicide, and addiction in law enforcement. Thankfully, change is happening, and departments, including his own, are beginning to implement officer wellness programs. Looking ahead, Sonny’s plans to retire healthy, open his own Paragon BJJ school specializing in training law enforcement, and continue mentoring young officers while remaining actively involved in officer wellness initiatives. His journey is one of resilience, dedication, and a relentless commitment to making law enforcement safer and stronger—both on the mats and in life.
Today, we dive deep into the intersection of mental health and law enforcement with Sergeant Sonny Gerber, a 26-year veteran who’s seen it all—SWAT operations, high-stakes encounters, and the personal toll of a life dedicated to service. But this episode isn’t about war stories—it’s about resilience, growth, and breaking the stigma around mental health in policing.
Sonny talks about his own struggles, the lessons he’s learned the hard way, and the powerful tools that helped him turn things around—everything from jiu-jitsu and peer support to breathwork, journaling, and faith-based programs like Mighty Oaks. Whether you’re a first responder, a veteran, or just someone looking to build a stronger mindset, this episode is packed with insights on how to train your body, sharpen your mind, and take back control of your well-being.
Resources Mentioned:
- Mighty Oaks Warrior Program – A faith-based program for first responders and military personnel that provides tools for personal resilience and healing.
- EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Tapping – Techniques used for processing trauma and reducing stress.
- Journaling – Used for processing thoughts, setting goals, and practicing gratitude.
- Biweekly Men’s Group (Mighty Oaks Outpost Meetings) – A support group for public safety professionals that includes Bible study and discussion.
- Breathing Techniques – Includes box breathing, four-count breathing, and guided breathing apps to manage stress and anxiety.
- Dr. Kevin Gilmartin’s Book: Emotional Survival for Law Enforcement – A recomme
72 episodes
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