Ep 64: "From Service to Support: Navigating Trauma and Empathy" with Paul Evancoe

Welcome back to The Interrupted Podcast, where we dive deep into the stories and experiences that shape exceptional individuals. In this episode, we're honored to have Paul Evancoe, an executive board member of the Hook-a-Hero Foundation and a seasoned law enforcement officer, joining us.
Paul's life has been shaped by a tapestry of influences, from his upbringing with a Navy SEAL father to the guidance of a compassionate and expectation-driven mother. His 16-year tenure in law enforcement, working across SWAT, Street Crimes, Narcotics, and Training, has provided him with a unique perspective on leadership, discipline, and mental health.
In our conversation, Paul sheds light on the diverse influences that have molded him into the man he is today. Growing up in a household that valued discipline from a Navy SEAL father while embracing compassion and high expectations from his mother, Paul's upbringing was a balancing act that instilled resilience and empathy.
His journey through various facets of law enforcement has not only exposed him to the challenges faced by first responders but has also driven him to become an integral part of the Hook-a-Hero Foundation. This all-volunteer non-profit, run by First Responders, focuses on providing crucial mental health resources and outdoor experiences to support those in service.
Paul shares insights on parenting, discipline, and mentorship, drawing from personal experiences and professional expertise. Moreover, he delves into the importance of facing trauma head-on and reclaiming control of one's life—a topic close to his heart given his dedication to mental health support for first responders.
During our conversation, Paul shares poignant reflections on his experiences, including his response to the Pulse nightclub shooting, one of the most challenging incidents in recent history. His involvement in that tragic event underscores the immense pressure and resilience demanded of first responders in the face of crisis.
This firsthand experience during the Pulse nightclub tragedy has deeply impacted Paul's dedication to supporting mental health resources for fellow responders. His insights into managing trauma and the significance of mental health care are rooted in the realities of confronting such traumatic incidents. Paul's perspective becomes invaluable in discussions surrounding resilience, healing, and the importance of mental health support within the first responder community.
Foundation
https://www.hookahero.com

The Interrupted Podcast
The Interrupted Podcast Website: https://www.interruptme.org/

The Interrupted Podcast Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/theinterrupted_podcast/
The Interrupted Podcast Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/theinterruptedpodcast/
Steve's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/interruptedsteve/
The Interrupted Podcast YouTube Channel : https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKu9POIpFKRlQXmRC_uYyfw