Mo Shaukat: Boots on the Ground

Mo Shaukat: Boots on the Ground

Author: Chris Glass March 6, 2026 Duration: 35:09

 "We are training people to survive the job physically, but we aren't training them to survive it mentally." Mo Shaukat has seen the worst of humanity as a hostage negotiator and correctional officer at the Edmonton Institution, a maximum security federal institution. He knows that for first responders, silence isn't strength—it's a death sentence. This is the story of how Mo brought Boots on the Ground to Alberta to ensure that when a hero hits a breaking point, there is a brother or sister on the other end of the line who actually "gets it."

Chapters: 
00:00 - The Weight of the Uniform: Active Military & First Responders 
01:50 - From Pakistan to the "Murder Capital" of Canada 
04:05 - "I’m Just Looking for a Job": The Accidental Firefighter 
06:53 - Life Inside the Max: The Reality of Edmonton Maximum Security 
10:44 - The Toll of the Job: Blood, Gore, and the People the System Breaks 
14:16 - The Art of Crisis Negotiation: Listening to Understand, Not to Respond 
19:53 - Who Rescues the Rescuer? The Birth of Boots on the Ground Alberta 
22:56 - The 2016 Hostage Incident: A Personal Lesson in Peer Support 
28:50 - Why Anonymity is the Key to Unlocking the Door 
31:34 - How to Get Help: 24/7 Anonymous Support for Heroes 
33:05 - The Future: Funding Psychological Visits and Service Dogs

Call to Action: If you are a first responder or military member in need of support, call the 24/7 anonymous helpline: 1-866-724-2684. Support the mission and donate at: https://botgalberta.com/

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There's a particular energy in a community like Airdrie, a blend of ambition, creativity, and neighborly spirit that often goes unnoticed beyond the city limits. Airdrie Inside is about changing that, one conversation at a time. Hosted by Chris Glass, whose perspective is shaped by years of living and breathing life here, this podcast ventures into the studios, workshops, offices, and community spaces where local stories are made. Each episode is a quiet sit-down with the people who are building, creating, and shaping the fabric of the city. You'll hear from entrepreneurs navigating the complexities of small business, artists explaining the inspiration behind their latest work, and dedicated volunteers whose efforts keep local culture vibrant. The focus is always on the genuine voices and personal journeys, not just the public achievements. It’s a series dedicated to the nuance of local life, offering a deeper appreciation for the hardworking heroes who might be your neighbor or the owner of your favorite shop. By tuning into this podcast, you get an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at the drive and passion that fuels Airdrie’s unique character, all through thoughtful, engaging conversations that feel like a chat with an old friend.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 59

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