Overcoming adversity to become someone better has been a recurring theme in his life. As a boy he survived childhood trauma. As a teen he survived alcohol addiction. As a 5’6” man he became a fearless Army Ranger. Against seemingly insurmountable odds he has graduated from college, become a police officer, public speaker, and best-selling author. Sean Wyman also found a deep faith that helped him become a better husband and father. The following excerpts from our recent interview further explain how his current passions do positively and proactively improve the lives of police officers and countless others.
Could you tell me a little about your job?
I’ve been a police officer about twenty years. I love people and it is rewarding to serve those who need my help. I earn the respect of my community by gaining their trust. Every day brings new opportunities to make a difference.
What are your thoughts on Tallahassee and on travel?
Florida’s capital city is a great place for education with two major universities. Also, a good place for opportunity and raising a family. I would like to revisit Italy and to see Australia for the first time. A favorite travel memory was when my new wife and I spent a fun week in Key West for our honeymoon.
What activities do you find most relaxing?
Spending time at the beach and playing baseball with my son are both huge stress relievers for me. So is cheering on my daughter as she does swimming, gymnastics, and softball. I do sometimes cook with my wife and I love to eat.
Would you explain the passion and purpose that drives your life?
I was on a journey to get past trauma and find courage to face my fears. Divine intervention helped me move forward toward a better life. My first book Let Go: The Movement Process was published in 2016. It helped me work through aggression and anger. God’s grace helped me understand love and healthier ways to interact with others. I found a deep need to advocate for the mental health needs of police officers and others who deal with public safety. My second book Going Beyond the Call: Mental Health Fitness for Public Safety Professionals was co-authored with Deirdre von Krauskopf and published in 2019.
Why is this so important to you?
There is a high suicide rate among first responders. This is the start of a courageous conversation that needs to happen. Trauma-informed care and training is important to help us look at our own past, our own survival skills and coping mechanisms, our own process of healing. We must first be able to understand our own pain and be willing to ask for help. Only then will we be better equipped to help promote functional mental health in others.
What makes you an exuberant person?
Well, I am not anything special, but I just have a lot of energy. I am a rational and positive person who is not afraid to talk to anyone. I want to keep becoming the best version of myself while I help reduce suicides and help people survive and thrive.
What is your message to the world?
Be prepared and don’t put off working on your own mental and physical health. Preparation leads to preservation while procrastination leads to devastation.
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Sean Wyman is quite humble. In February 2020, he received the “Back the Blue” award as Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody thanked him for his work with first responders and mental health. Dang y’all, I’d say that makes him extraordinary! What do YOU think? Your comments will be welcomed and appreciated.
