How A Retired FBI Agent Stays Human In A Hard Job

Send us Fan MailHe walked away from the pulpit because the stress would not let his body rest, then spent the next two decades staring straight at humanity’s darkest corners. I’m joined by Eric Robinson, newly retired after 24 years in the FBI, to talk about resilience that’s earned, not posted. Eric shares how carrying other people’s pain as a solo pastor led to daily headaches, and why choosing a new path was a mental health decision as much as a career move.From there, we trace his unusual transition into federal law enforcement, including how the post 9-11 environment and his background shaped the Bureau’s interest. We also get real about maturity and judgment in high-stakes work: what experience gives you, why authenticity matters with first responders, and how a “mask” culture can quietly grind people down.Then we go deeper into the cases that leave a mark: sex trafficking, exploitation, gangs, and the challenge of staying compassionate without being naive. Eric explains why justice can’t depend on a “perfect victim,” and he tells a moment from Chicago that re-centered him fast when a kid he judged as a nuisance asked for help getting home. We close with a look at how he approaches interviews and interrogations by building connection and psychological safety to get the truth, not to perform anger.If you care about first responder mental health, trauma-informed leadership, and real-world resilience skills, hit play, then subscribe, share this with a teammate, and leave a review so more people can find the show.Please reach Eric through his website at http://www.preachertobreacher.comDeemedFit: First Responder OwnedWe are a first responder owned company looking to get first responders in the best mental shape.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showYouTube Channel For The Podcast