Let's Grab A Cup!

by Adam Sturgeon

Season 1

E10: From Special Forces to Police Officer to Mayor. An Interview with Bob Kellar, a man who has lived a full life and will still say to this day that his best times were when he was working for the Los Angeles Police Department.

This is Episode 10 of @lets_grab_a_cup podcast. From Special Forces to Police Officer to Mayor. An Interview with Bob Kellar, a man who has lived a full life and will still say to this day that his best times were when he was working for the Los Angeles Police Department. Bob Kellar grew up in Southern California, in the San Fernando Valley. As a young man, he was drawn to the idea of serving his country and joined the Army. Bob was a hard worker and leader amongst his peers and was chosen for the Special Forces, where he performed rigorous training that ultimately served him well as a Police Officer for the LAPD. After his tour in the Army, Bob joined the LAPD and worked various assignments. Bob became a SWAT officer and ultimately promoted to Sergeant. Bob retired after 25 years of service and began a real estate company called Kellar Davis Realty in Santa Clarita, and after a very brief time, he was asked to serve in the Santa Clarita Valley. Bob ultimately ran and won a seat on the City Council in 2000, and as a city council member, Bob was Mayor four times during his tenure. Bob served his city with pride and dignity and worked tirelessly for the residents of the Santa Clarita Valley. Bob is still practicing real estate and now just as busy as ever. I appreciate Bob coming on this podcast and sharing his story and his experiences. I believe that there are so many great leaders amongst us and each of us has a story. This podcast is brought to you by Sturgeon Wellness (Intentionality, Authenticity, Resiliency). I am fully invested in the idea of a transparent, authentic, and intentional type of leader. I believe that we can do better for those we serve and those who serve along-side us. Let's step up by being vulnerable. Vulnerability is the true super-power. My goal is to find the leadership values within each one of us and really dive deep to bring it to the forefront. Find more on my website - Sturgeonwellness.com or letsgrabacup.com, You can find me @ap_sturgeon and @lets_grab_a_cup on Instagram. I am happy to hear any suggestions, comments, concerns, and if you would like to be a guest on the show, email me at sturgeonwellness@gmail.com. Come find me and Let's Grab a Cup together!

S1 · E10

Apr 4, 2022

1:04:45

E9: "The Classmate, Partner, and Friend - all wrapped in one great human being!" - Interview with Sergeant Danielle Quinones. Danielle speaks about how to overcome obstacles as a female in Law Enforcement.

This is Episode 9 of @lets_grab_a_cup podcast. The Classmate, partner, and friend - all wrapped in one great human being! One of my first partners, my classmate, and my friend Danielle Quinones, is a Sergeant in Southern California and today we sat down to discuss what brought her to policing and the world of law enforcement. As a college athlete, Danielle was always disciplined and in turn she is a great police officer. Danielle speaks about how as a female in Law Enforcement there are innate challenges that will be faced, and although she faced many of these challenges, Danielle continued to push through and develop a workstyle that matched her desire to succeed. Danielle was able to develop a well-rounded career as a young police officer, spending time in special assignments, working her way up as a Field Training Officer and Recruit Training Officer, and ultimately promoting to Sergeant. I appreciate Danielle sharing her story, about the challenges she faced as a young woman, throughout her college softball career, and ultimately through the police department. Danielle is a great leader and will continue to have great success in both her career and her personal life. Her dedication and determination is contagious and I hope each one of you get something out of this interview. This podcast is brought to you by Sturgeon Wellness (Intentionality, Authenticity, Resiliency). I am fully invested in the idea of a transparent, authentic, and intentional type of leader. I believe that we can do better for those we serve and those who serve along-side us. Let's step up by being vulnerable. Vulnerability is the true super-power. My goal is to find the leadership values within each one of us and really dive deep to bring it to the forefront. Find more on my website - Sturgeonwellness.com or letsgrabacup.com, You can find me @ap_sturgeon and @lets_grab_a_cup on Instagram. I am happy to hear any suggestions, comments, concerns, and if you would like to be a guest on the show, email me at sturgeonwellness@gmail.com. Come find me and Let's Grab a Cup together!

S1 · E9

Mar 21, 2022

1:10:37

E8: The Highway Man (An interview with retired California Highway Patrol Officer Ryan Carrol)

This is Episode 8 of @lets_grab_a_cup podcast. “The Highway Man” I sit down with Ryan Carrol who is retired from the California Highway Patrol after 27.4 years of service. Ryan had an expansive career within the CHP, ranging from working Central LA and South LA for almost 20 years, ultimately working his way onto an auto-theft and narcotics task force, and eventually to the TRAP team. Ryan is proud to say that if he could go back and do any job within the organization, it would be patrol. Patrol is where the best memories, best stories, and biggest learning achievements occurred in his career. Ryan now spends time doing various hobbies and truly taking time for his family and three dogs. I appreciate Ryan spending this time and telling about his time in law-enforcement and his story navigating the career and life outside. This podcast is brought to you by Sturgeon Wellness (Intentionality, Authenticity, Resiliency). I am fully invested in the idea of a transparent, authentic, and intentional type of leader. I believe that we can do better for those we serve and those who serve along-side us. Let's step up by being vulnerable. Vulnerability is the true super-power. My goal is to find the leadership values within each one of us and really dive deep to bring it to the forefront. Find more on my website - Sturgeonwellness.com or letsgrabacup.com, You can find me @ap_sturgeon and @lets_grab_a_cup on Instagram. I am happy to hear any suggestions, comments, concerns, and if you would like to be a guest on the show, email me at sturgeonwellness@gmail.com. Come find me and Let's Grab a Cup together!

S1 · E8

Mar 7, 2022

1:11:29

E7: The Battle of Good Over Evil (Interview with Matthew and Christina Dages) - A police officer, who lost his job, was prosecuted, and now continues to fight for his job back.

This is Episode 7 of @lets_grab_a_cup podcast. “The Battle of Good over Evil” I sit down with Matthew and Christina Dages and hear their story of family, faith, and perseverance. Matthew is a former Police Officer from La Mesa CA. Matthew was involved in a Use of Force incident in 2020, which ultimately went viral. This Use of Force was scrutinized in the wake of the riots of 2020 and ultimately caused Matthew to lose his job as a police officer and even be prosecuted. Matthew and Christina have had to come out of “the fire of hell” and have been fighting for over a year now. Although Matthew was found “Not Guilty” (spoiler alert), they are both still fighting today to get Matthew his job back as a Police Officer in La Mesa, CA. I urge anyone and everyone to do your own research and watch the video of the Use of Force yourself, which can be found all over Youtube. The entire encounter was captured on body worn camera. I am proud of this couple for overcoming such anguish at an early stage in their relationship. Their courage to stand up and fight for the truth is nothing less than commendable. If you would like to support this family as they continue to fight, you can find donation links on their website https://linktr.ee/ClearOfficerDages. You can also find them on Instagram, facebook, and gitter @clearofficerdages. This podcast is brought to you by Sturgeon Wellness (Intentionality, Authenticity, Resiliency). I am fully invested in the idea of a transparent, authentic, and intentional type of leader. I believe that we can do better for those we serve and those who serve along-side us. Let's step up by being vulnerable. Vulnerability is the true super-power. My goal is to find the leadership values within each one of us and really dive deep to bring it to the forefront. Find more on my website - Sturgeonwellness.com or letsgrabacup.com, You can find me @ap_sturgeon and @lets_grab_a_cup on Instagram. I am happy to hear any suggestions, comments, concerns, and if you would like to be a guest on the show, email me at sturgeonwellness@gmail.com. Come find me and Let's Grab a Cup together!

S1 · E7

Feb 25, 2022

2:05:49

E6: The Lyon - Interview with Sgt PJ Lyon about his experience navigating loss, while also focusing on career.

This is Episode 6 of @lets_grab_a_cup podcast. I sit down with my friend PJ Lyon who is a Police Sergeant. PJ has spent his career making a name for himself, working hard, and being the best police officer he could be. PJ spent time in patrol, as a Field Training Officer, and an extended time working in the Gang Enforcement Team. PJ is an exceptional leader, a great detective, officer, and now Sergeant. PJ was able to earn such credibility by giving “it all” to the job, but as you will discover, this comes at a cost. PJ may have seemed that he had it all going on, but it was in his home life that he struggled the most. PJ had to deal with a loss that no parent deserves and on top of that, he had to watch as his daughter struggled for years in pain. I believe that hearing PJ will bring it home for many people who are struggling to maintain a balance between the responsibilities of work and home, and for anyone dealing with some really hard things, it is important to know you are not alone. PJ is a great leader in both his work life and his home life and that comes from working through his own hardships and becoming the man he is today. I am really proud to call PJ my friend, and if any of you are experiencing hardships in this way, I would love to put you in touch with PJ who I know wants to help anyone and everyone he can. This podcast is brought to you by Sturgeon Wellness (Intentionality, Authenticity, Resiliency). I am fully invested in the idea of a transparent, authentic, and intentional type of leader. I believe that we can do better for those we serve and those who serve along-side us. Let's step up by being vulnerable. Vulnerability is the true super-power. My goal is to find the leadership values within each one of us and really dive deep to bring it to the forefront. If you go to my website - Sturgeonwellness.com or letsgrabacup.com, you will see that I provide coaching on Leadership and Relationship Building. I believe we all need to be intentional in our growth. Let's find that leader within! You can find me @ap_sturgeon and @lets_grab_a_cup on Instagram. I am happy to hear any suggestions, comments, concerns, and if you would like to be a guest on the show, email me at sturgeonwellness@gmail.com. Come find me and Let's Grab a Cup together!

S1 · E6

Feb 21, 2022

1:06:28

E5: The Chief Next Door - Part 2 - Seal Beach Chief Phil and I wrap up our discussion and talk the future of the Seal Beach Police Department

This is Episode 5 of @lets_grab_a_cup podcast. (This is the 2nd Part of the interview - Please check out Episode 4 first to hear about Phil's upbringing and learn about how he got to this position in which he sits today.) A little background about Phil. Phil started his career in Tempe, AZ as a Police Officer in 2000 before lateraling to Seal Beach in 2007. Phil spent promoted through the ranks in Seal Beach, but not before spending time in Special Investigations, Narcotics, and as an operator and Sniper on the SWAT team. Phil was also the Commander for the West County SWAT team in Orange County, CA. This is Part 2 of 2. Phil and I had a rather lengthy conversation and in order to provide it in a digestible format, it was broken up into two parts. In this part, we discuss the future of the department, how the @sealbeachpolice social media is amazing and hilarious and that the man behind the curtain should really get paid for all of his great work! You will hear about Seal Beach and the current stance on mandates, as well as the vision for the upcoming 2022 year. Anyone interested in becoming a Seal Beach Police Officer should reach out and maybe I can get you in contact with Phil before the hiring begins again! Phil is a dedicated leader and an all-around good guy. This is the type of Leader that any City should be striving to put at the helm. I really appreciate the time Phil took out of his day to sit down and I hope you enjoy. Find all the great things Seal Beach Police Department is doing at www.sealbeachca.gov … You can also ask the department anything you want by shooting an email over to askacop@sealbeachca.gov This podcast is brought to you by Sturgeon Wellness (Intentionality, Authenticity, Resiliency). I am fully invested in the idea of a transparent, authentic, and intentional type of leader. I believe that we can do better for those we serve and those who serve along-side us. Let's step up by being vulnerable. Vulnerability is the true super-power. I offer Leadership Building and Relationship Coaching. 50% off first two sessions if you book by the end of February 2022. Book your intro call and see if it’s a fit before booking. www.sturgeonwellness.com My goal is to find the leadership values within each one of us and really dive deep to bring it to the forefront. If you go to my website – www.sturgeonwellness.com or www.letsgrabacup.com , you will see that I provide coaching on Leadership and Relationship Building. I believe we all need to be intentional in our growth. Let's find that leader within! You can find me @ap_sturgeon and @lets_grab_a_cup on Instagram. I am happy to hear any suggestions, comments, concerns, and if you would like to be a guest on the show, email me at sturgeonwellness@gmail.com. Come find me and Let's Grab a Cup together!

S1 · E5

Feb 7, 2022

57:11

E4: The Chief Next Door - Part 1 (Phil Gonshak - Seal Beach Police Chief)

This is Episode 4 of @lets_grab_a_cup podcast. I sit down with Phil Gonshak – who just happens to be the Chief of Police in Seal Beach, CA. Phil and I met only a couple months ago, but it seems like I have known him forever. Phil started his career in Tempe, AZ as a Police Officer in 2000 before lateraling to Seal Beach in 2007. Phil promoted through the ranks in Seal Beach, but not before spending time in Special Investigations, Narcotics, and as an operator and Sniper on the SWAT team. Phil was also the Commander for the West County SWAT team in Orange County, CA. This is Part 1 of 2. Phil and I had a rather lengthy conversation and in order to provide it in a digestible format, it was broken up into two parts. In this part, I hope you get something out of hearing about Phil’s upbringing and his decision making as a young man. Phil had his share of extreme challenges that he was able to overcome with the help of his wife (Stephanie) and ultimately become the resilient man you see before you today. Phil is a dedicated leader and an all-around good guy. This is the type of Leader that any City should be striving to put at the helm. I really appreciate the time Phil took out of his day to sit down and I hope you enjoy. Find all the great things Seal Beach Police Department is doing at www.sealbeachca.gov … You can also ask the department anything you want by shooting an email over to askacop@sealbeachca.gov This podcast is brought to you by Sturgeon Wellness (Intentionality, Authenticity, Resiliency). I am fully invested in the idea of a transparent, authentic, and intentional type of leader. I believe that we can do better for those we serve and those who serve along-side us. Let's step up by being vulnerable. Vulnerability is the true super-power. I offer Leadership Building and Relationship Coaching. 50% off first two sessions if you book by the end of February 2022. Book your intro call and see if it’s a fit before booking. www.sturgeonwellness.com My goal is to find the leadership values within each one of us and really dive deep to bring it to the forefront. If you go to my website – www.sturgeonwellness.com or www.letsgrabacup.com , you will see that I provide coaching on Leadership and Relationship Building. I believe we all need to be intentional in our growth. Let's find that leader within! You can find me @ap_sturgeon and @lets_grab_a_cup on Instagram. I am happy to hear any suggestions, comments, concerns, and if you would like to be a guest on the show, email me at sturgeonwellness@gmail.com. Come find me and Let's Grab a Cup together!

S1 · E4

Jan 28, 2022

1:10:21

E3 - The Guardian (aka: SENTRY) - Retired Police Sergeant and Marine (Ray Alexander) is steadfast and mindful as he moves through the story of his life growing up in the heart of Los Angeles and built a career on serving others.

This is Episode 3 of @lets_grab_a_cup podcast. I sit down with my friend Ray Alexander who spent over 28 years as a Police Officer in Southern California. Ray’s story starts at an early age where he overcame a gang and drug neighborhood with a focus on sports and made it to the Marine Corp as a Military Police Officer. Ray spent a lifetime of service to his Country and his Community. As a Police Officer, Ray worked as a drill instructor for half a decade, processing six academy classes and teaching hundreds of officers over the years. Ray worked in Investigations as a Detective in the Violent Crimes Detail and ultimately promoted to the rank of Sergeant. Ray is a dedicated father and family man and he has now started a new company focused on firearm instruction (www.alexandersentrygroup.com - @alexandersentrygroup on IG). If you are a new gun owner or know someone who is new to firearms, seek out Ray for some instruction – He operates in the LA area, Las Vegas, and Virginia. This podcast is brought to you by Sturgeon Wellness (Intentionality, Authenticity, Resiliency). I am fully invested in the idea of a transparent, authentic, and intentional type of leader. I believe that we can do better for those we serve and those who serve along-side us. Let's step up by being vulnerable. Vulnerability is the true super-power. My goal is to find the leadership values within each one of us and really dive deep to bring it to the forefront. If you go to my website - Sturgeonwellness.com or letsgrabacup.com, you will see that I provide coaching on Leadership and Relationship Building. I believe we all need to be intentional in our growth. Let's find that leader within! You can find me @ap_sturgeon and @lets_grab_a_cup on Instagram, and at sturgeonwellness.com or letsgrabacup.com. I am happy to hear any suggestions, comments, concerns, and if you would like to be a guest on the show, email me at sturgeonwellness@gmail.com. Come find me and Let's Grab a Cup together!

S1 · E3

Jan 19, 2022

59:48

E2 - The Musician - Deputy Sheriff and Musician, Seth "Bucky" Barnett (@buckybarnettmusic) comes on to talk shop...

This is Episode 2 of @letsgraba_cup podcast. I sit down with my friend Seth "Bucky" Barnett, who is not only a first responder (a Deputy Sheriff) but also a musician. Seth Barnett loves to sing, play the guitar, and create a great atmosphere for all. Seth is a family man and that is clearly his life's inspiration. His leadership and dedication to public service is evident and his positive outlook and friendship is an inspiration! Bucky Barnett is playing at the Pocock Brewery in Santa Clarita, CA on January 22, 2022 at 7PM-10PM. @pocockbrewingcompany is located at 24907 Ave Tibbitts in Santa Clarita. If you happen to live in the area or want to come down and visit, you'll find fantastic music, great beer, and food! This podcast is brought to you by Sturgeon Wellness (Intentionality, Authenticity, Resiliency). I am fully invested in the idea of a transparent, authentic, and intentional type of leader. I believe that we can do better for those we serve and those who serve along-side us. Let's step up by being vulnerable. Vulnerability is the true super-power. My goal is to find the leadership values within each one of us and really dive deep to bring it to the forefront. If you go to my website - Sturgeonwellness.com or letsgrabacup.com, you will see that I provide coaching on Leadership and Relationship Building. I believe we all need to be intentional in our growth. Let's find that leader within! You can find me @apsturgeon and @lets_grab_a_cup on Instagram. I am happy to hear any suggestions, comments, concerns, and if you would like to be a guest on the show, email me at sturgeonwellness@gmail.com. Come find me and Let's Grab a Cup together!

S1 · E2

Jan 12, 2022

52:51

E1 - The Inspiration - How are you holding space for the people in your life? Let's take a moment and lean into our relationships. Let's grab a cup together!

This is the first @lets_grab_a_cup episode. This is the inspiration behind why this podcast was started. From the original blog post on sturgeonwellness.com with the same title, I bring to you a place to hold space, a place to come together and find some truth in this world. I am fully invested in the idea of a transparent, authentic, and intentional type of leader. I believe that we can do better for those we serve and those who serve along-side us. Let's step up by being vulnerable. Vulnerability is the true super-power. My goal is to find the leadership values within each one of us and really dive deep to bring it to the forefront. If you go to my website - Sturgeonwellness.com, you will see that I provide coaching on Leadership and Relationship Building. I believe we all need to be intentional in our growth. You can find me @ap_sturgeon and @lets_grab_a_cup on Instagram. I am happy to hear any suggestions, comments, concerns, and if you would like to be a guest on the show, email me at sturgeonwellness@gmail.com. Come find me and Let's Grab a Cup together!

S1 · E1

Jan 12, 2022

31:11

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