How Crisis Intervention, Therapy, Leadership, and Resilience Can Save Lives - Joe Smarro | Ep. 203

Welcome back to Spartan Leadership! In this powerful episode, Josh Kosnick sits down with Joe Smarro—Marine Corps veteran, former San Antonio police officer, and co-founder of Solution Point Plus. Joe has seen combat, crisis, and mental health struggles firsthand—from the battlefields of Iraq to the frontlines of law enforcement. Now, his mission is clear: bridge the gap between mental health and public safety, eradicate suicide among first responders, and equip leaders with the tools to handle high-pressure situations with courage, compassion, and connection. 🚀 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Joe’s transition from Marine Corps to Law Enforcement to Mental Health Advocacy ✅ The shocking personal battles that shaped Joe’s mission ✅ How to create mental resilience in high-stakes careers ✅ Practical strategies for de-escalation and leadership under pressure ✅ The power of vulnerability and leading by example This conversation could save a life—if you’re a leader, first responder, or anyone battling mental challenges, you need to hear this. ⏳ Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction & Joe Smarro’s Background 03:00 - From Marine Corps to Police Officer to Mental Health Advocate 07:00 - The Dark Reality of Mental Health in First Responders 11:00 - Overcoming Suicidal Thoughts & Finding Purpose 16:00 - How Leaders Can Build Mental Resilience in Their Teams 22:00 - The Power of Vulnerability & Why Leaders Must Lead by Example 30:00 - Joe’s Personal Trauma & How It Shaped His Mission 38:00 - The Role of Stoicism in Overcoming Adversity 44:00 - Daily Practices for Mental Wellness & Leadership Growth 50:00 - How Businesses Can Create a Culture of Mental Health 55:00 - Final Thoughts & Where to Follow Joe 🔥 Subscribe for more powerful leadership insights! 🔥 📲 Follow Joe Smarro: Instagram: @joesmarro Website: https://joesmarro.com 📲 Follow Josh Kosnick: Instagram: @joshkosnick Website: joshkosnick.com 🚀 Support the Mission: spartanvalor.org Spartan Valor Foundation is dedicated to empowering veterans, military families, and survivors of child trafficking. Through strategic partnerships, we provide critical resources, advocacy, and hope for those who have sacrificed so much. Join us in making a difference—because no hero should stand alone. 🔗 Learn more: spartanvalor.org CONNECT WITH ME HERE: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter TikTok YouTube SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST HERE: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube