
MM 342: The Dark Side of Being the Strong One
From Criminal Justice Evolution by Patrick Fitzgibbons
March 2, 2026 · 8 min · Episode 767
About this episode
Patrick explores the challenges faced by leaders who feel the pressure to always be strong and the emotional toll it can take.
In this Microcast Monday, Patrick explores the dark side of always being “the strong one” – the supervisor, the leader, the dependable person who feels like they can’t crack. He touches on emotional regulation, leadership loneliness, hidden depression, and why leaders often struggle to ask for help. Criminal Justice Evolution March 2, 2026 A special thanks to YOU. The criminal justice / first responder professional. Thank you for what you do every day for our communities. Remember you are honored, cherished, and loved. Keep up the good work and please be safe. To inquire about Frontline Focus , my new coaching program – please fill out the form here .
Topics covered
- emotional regulation
- leadership loneliness
- hidden depression
- help-seeking behavior
Keywords
- mental health
- first responders
- coaching
Mentioned in this episode
Products: Frontline Focus
More episodes of Criminal Justice Evolution
- Bail Reform with Ken Good: Justice, Safety, or Political Theater? · April 23, 2026 · 43 min
- MM 346: 3 Things Every Agency Should Know About Burnout · April 20, 2026 · 5 min
- MM 345: Live like it's your last day · April 13, 2026 · 9 min
- MM 344: The Perfection Trap · March 30, 2026 · 8 min
- MM 343: The Turning Point · March 10, 2026 · 8 min
- MM 341: Strong doesn't mean unaffected · February 17, 2026 · 6 min
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