The Things We All Carry

Mindfulness in the Line of Duty - Josh - AZ

In this episode, the focus is on the transformative power of mindfulness for first responders. This episode features Josh, a fire captain and founder of Foundation Fortified. The discussion highlights how mindfulness and meditation can be crucial tools for managing trauma, enhancing focus, and improving mental well-being in high-stress professions. Josh shares his mission to make mindfulness accessible through various platforms, addressing its benefits for both professional and personal life, including for families and children of first responders. The conversation also draws parallels between mindfulness and situational awareness training, emphasizing improved decision-making under stress. Listeners are offered insights into the potential of mindfulness to reshape approaches to mental health and the importance of nonfiction literature in understanding human culture.
 
00:00 Introduction to The Things We All Carry
00:25 Personal Reflections and Family Memories
02:32 Struggles with Grief and Self-Improvement
03:42 Commitment to Therapy and Personal Growth
07:08 Episode 137: Featuring Josh from Foundation Fortified
09:16 Josh's Background and Mindfulness Journey
10:05 Understanding Mindfulness and Meditation
13:01 Mindfulness for First Responders
37:02 Practical Steps to Start Mindfulness
42:27 The Essence of Mindfulness
42:53 Finding Joy in the Present Moment
43:21 Explaining Mindfulness to Others
44:06 The Mind's Role in Dissatisfaction
45:46 Training the Mind Against Unhappiness
46:16 Mindfulness and Suffering
47:05 The Importance of Mindfulness in Daily Life
47:47 Mindfulness as a Trainable Skill
49:06 Mindfulness for First Responders
49:55 Mindfulness Practice and Emotional Waves
50:20 The Future of Mindfulness in the Industry
53:10 Mindfulness Resources and Programs
54:18 Mindfulness for Families and Children
55:17 Daily Mindfulness Practice for First Responders
57:47 The Journey of Creating Mindfulness Content
01:03:30 Mindfulness and Leadership
01:05:34 The Impact of Technology on Attention
01:13:10 Mindfulness in High-Stress Situations
01:16:18 The Benefits of Mindfulness Practice
01:18:20 Experiencing Awe Through Mindfulness
01:20:35 Book Recommendations and Final Thoughts

Finding Peace: Brandon's Journey

In this episode of 'The Things We All Carry,' we explore the mental health challenges and recovery journeys of first responders. Featuring a profound conversation with Brandon, a firefighter from Cincinnati, who shares his battle with PTSD and his experience with stellar ganglion block treatment. The episode highlights the importance of therapy, the impact of traumatic calls, peer support, and the fight to break mental health stigmas. Additionally, practical strategies for managing mental health, including therapy, meditation, and supportive family interactions, are discussed, offering valuable insights for coping with job-related stress and fostering personal growth.
 
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:28 Reflecting on Conversations with Former Guests
01:09 Challenges of Returning from Inpatient Treatment
06:30 Personal Struggles and Seeking Help
08:16 Introducing Episode 136: Brandon's Story
11:44 Brandon's Background and Fire Service Journey
12:12 Growing Up in a Firefighting Family
21:51 Dealing with ADHD and Personal Challenges
29:41 Joining the Marine Corps and Facing Setbacks
34:11 Pursuing a Career in the Fire Service
36:29 Navigating Multiple Departments
37:11 Paramedic School and Injury
38:20 Facing Physical Limitations
39:02 Transition to Hospital Work
40:49 Struggles with PTSD
49:55 Therapy and Recovery Journey
53:51 Finding Effective Therapy
55:54 The Impact of ART Therapy
57:50 Stella Ganglion Block Experience
01:08:51 Daily Rituals and Mental Health
01:10:10 Department's Mental Health Approach
01:12:31 Moments of Awe and Reflection
01:13:44 Book Recommendations and Closing

The Battle Within - Episode 135

In this episode, Stack dives deep into the nuanced and often complex experiences of grief, particularly as it relates to first responders. The episode underscores the importance of open discussion and healthy management of grief and trauma. This week's guest, Jamie, the Clinical Director of The Battle Within, shares her personal experiences and insights into trauma-informed care. The Battle Within is an organization dedicated to providing mental and behavioral support to veterans and first responders. Jamie elaborates on their flagship program, the Revenant Journey, a five-day intensive workshop designed to arm participants with essential coping skills and tools. Additional programs such as the Frontline Therapy Network and Dogs for Valor also aim to support individuals dealing with trauma. Tune in to learn more about the impact of grief, the importance of talking about it, and the valuable resources available through The Battle Within.
 
00:00 Introduction to The Things We All Carry
00:28 Exploring the Theme of Grief
01:49 Personal Stories of Loss
05:04 The Importance of Healing Out Loud
08:44 Introducing Jamie from The Battle Within
14:05 Jamie's Background and Childhood
16:54 Jamie's Professional Journey
19:15 The Impact of Personal Trauma
21:35 Challenges in Systemic Support
27:01 Integrating Professional and Personal Experiences
29:29 Joining the Club: Embracing the Battle Within
29:48 Origins of the Battle Within
31:13 Personal Journey to the Battle Within
34:10 Core Programs of the Battle Within
34:27 The Revenant Journey: A Deep Dive
35:28 Holistic Healing Approaches
40:27 Building Community and Vulnerability
43:35 Measuring Success and Testimonials
47:44 Getting Involved and Additional Programs
54:26 Cost and Logistics
55:05 Moments of Awe and Book Recommendations
01:01:51 Final Thoughts and Farewell

From The Flight Deck To The Firehouse: Brad W - OH

In this episode of 'The Things We All Carry,' Stack interviews Brad, a recently retired firefighter from Ohio with a background in the Navy. Brad shares his journey from working in crash and salvage on a flight deck to becoming a dedicated firefighter. He discusses the significant impact of the opioid epidemic on his career, his struggles with the mental toll of the job, and his current pursuit of a degree in psychology and counseling to help first responders. Tune in for a compelling conversation about trauma, recovery, and the importance of peer support in the firefighting community.
 
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:22 Stepping Out of the Comfort Zone
00:43 Operation Yellow Tape Event
01:56 Engaging with the Community
06:26 Upcoming Appearances and Reflections
07:55 Episode 134 Introduction
08:04 Interview with Brad: Life After Fire Service
12:38 Brad's Background and Early Life
17:07 Military Service and Challenges
26:40 Transition to Firefighting
29:36 Reflecting on a Firefighting Career
29:58 Challenges and Realizations
32:13 Types of Calls and Community Dynamics
33:57 Impact of the Heroin Epidemic
36:00 Personal Struggles and Peer Support
37:10 Transition to Therapy and Retirement
38:27 Ongoing Involvement and Future Plans
40:43 Final Thoughts and Reflections
48:31 Conclusion and Farewell

Triumph Over Adversity: TJ Webb's Journey from Trauma to Triumph

Join us for Episode 133, featuring an inspiring conversation with TJ Webb, a retired police officer, public speaker, and health coach. Webb recounts a horrific shootout in December 2020 that left him with severe injuries, and his subsequent, grueling recovery. During this transformative period, he founded the Fit for Duty Foundation to promote physical fitness among first responders. Webb shares his challenges and triumphs, including his participation in the '30 Days of Murph' challenge, the writing of his book 'Just One More,' and his mission to motivate others through public speaking. Prepare to be moved by a powerful story of resilience, community support, and the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:23 Personal Struggles and Emotional Reflections
05:03 Upcoming Event: Operation Yellow Tape
06:18 Introducing This Week's Guest: T.J. Webb
09:55 T.J. Webb's Background and Career
23:11 The Day That Changed Everything
39:53 Setting a Bold Recovery Goal
40:29 First Steps in Rehab
42:08 Creating a Motivational Sign
45:50 Small Steps to Big Goals
48:58 Achieving the Impossible
55:37 Mental Resilience and Family Support
01:02:09 Launching the Fit for Duty Foundation
01:07:28 Daily Discipline and New Challenges
01:11:46 Final Reflections and Future Plans

Resilience To Leadership with Bruce : Part 2

In this episode of The Things We All Carry we journey through nearly three decades of Bruce's life, starting from his early days as a rookie to his current position of Battalion Chief. Explore his professional growth, coping mechanisms, and personal milestones, including meeting his wife and raising a family. Additionally, gain heartfelt insights into the differences and deep emotional connections between parenting and grandparenting. This episode offers a profound look into the joys, challenges, and legacies that shape our lives, both in our careers and family bonds.
 
00:00 Starting the Firefighting Journey
00:28 Early Challenges and Realizations
01:17 Career Progression and Training
04:22 Becoming a Paramedic
07:24 Personal Life and Family
09:11 A Life-Changing Call
16:36 Coping with Trauma
33:11 Trust and Relationships
37:43 Evolution of Mental Health Support
37:58 Peer Support and Its Challenges
40:04 Adopt a Firehouse Program
41:17 Resiliency Center and Modern Approaches
43:09 Personal Approach to Mental Health
45:58 Financial Security for Firefighters
50:20 Disconnecting from Work
55:21 Building Strong Relationships
57:16 Department-Wide Mental Health Initiatives
01:01:16 Leadership and Availability
01:04:39 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Resilience To Leadership with Bruce : Part 1

In this episode of 'The Things We All Carry,' we delve into the life story of Bruce, a battalion chief with over 30 years of experience in the fire service. Stack dives deep into Bruce's early life marked by severe abuse, his path to independence at age 16, and his eventual career in firefighting. The episode tackles heavy themes such as trauma, resilience, and the evolving societal views on public service. With candid discussions about the difficulties Bruce faced both personally and professionally, this episode offers a raw and impactful look at what it means to carry on in the face of adversity.
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:25 Apology for No Video
01:04 Introducing Bruce and Episode 131
01:46 The Importance of Civil Discourse
04:55 Challenges in the Fire Service
06:16 Raising the Bar for Recruitment
07:42 Personal Reflections and Future Plans
09:54 Introducing Bruce's Story
11:42 Bruce's Early Life and Family Struggles
17:07 Abuse and Attempted Arson
21:18 Custody Battles and Family Dynamics
31:58 Reconnecting with Siblings
34:22 The Struggles of a Distrusted Child
37:41 Reintegrating Siblings and Teenage Rebellion
39:15 Mental Health Challenges and Emancipation
43:40 Finding Stability and a New Path
45:52 Joining the Volunteer Fire Department
51:46 First Firefighting Experience
55:28 Pursuing a Career in Firefighting
59:27 Concluding Reflections

Rewiring the Brain: PTSD and Neuroplasticity with Dr. Brooke Bartlett"

Join Stack and Dr Brooke Bartlett on The Things We All Carry Episode 130 as they uncover the extensive impact of trauma on mental health. Dr. Bartlett, a clinical psychologist expert in trauma, delves into the brain's intricacies, focusing on the amygdala, prefrontal cortex, and hippocampus. Learn about post-traumatic stress injury (PTSI), the curative potential of neuroplasticity, and evidence-based treatments. Discussions cover the importance of systematic exposure therapy, addressing mental health thoroughly, and why talk therapy might not be enough for severe cases. This episode also underscores proactive interventions in fire and police departments, and the cumulative nature of trauma. Gain invaluable knowledge and practical advice for navigating the challenges of mental wellness.
 
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:22 Meet the First Responders
00:51 Defining Mental Wealth
02:38 Protecting Mental Wealth
04:47 Host's Personal Reflections
10:40 Episode Overview and Guest Introduction
13:39 Dr. Brooke Bartlett's Background
25:21 Understanding the Brain
32:55 Impact of Trauma on the Brain
37:25 Combat Veteran's PTSD Triggered by Barbecue
38:34 Symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Injury
39:35 Brain Scans and PTSD
44:32 Memory Gaps and Trauma
53:15 Neuroplasticity: The Brain's Superpower
01:05:17 Evidence-Based Trauma Therapy
01:15:32 Understanding Internal and External Avoidance
01:15:52 Imaginal Exposures: Facing Trauma Head-On
01:16:51 Recalibrating the Amygdala
01:19:09 The Role of Repetition in Trauma Therapy
01:23:28 Addressing Complex PTSD and Memory Gaps
01:27:44 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and the Prefrontal Cortex
01:47:02 The Importance of Proactive Mental Health Strategies
01:49:54 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Operation Yellow Tape : A Deep Dive With Kenny Mitchell Jr

In this episode of 'The Things We All Carry,' retired firefighter Kenny Mitchell Jr. opens up about his journey through trauma, both on and off the job. He discusses the founding of 'Operation Yellow Tape,' an organization dedicated to supporting the mental health of first responders. Listeners are also invited to join Kenny's upcoming free event by registering on his website. The conversation touches on Kenny's career highlights, personal experiences, and offers invaluable insights into balancing work and life while recovering from trauma. Featuring heartfelt reflections, candid advice, and a book recommendation—'Touching the Dragon' by Jimmy Hatch—this episode is a profound exploration of healing and finding purpose.
 
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:25 Personal Reflections and Struggles
02:10 Finding Purpose
05:49 Introduction to Episode 129
05:59 Guest Introduction: Kenny Mitchell Jr.
06:16 Operation Yellow Tape
07:07 The Importance of Open Conversations
10:46 Kenny's Background and Career
14:42 Growing Up and Family Life
21:59 Transition to Firefighting
22:34 Impact of 9/11 and Career Beginnings
24:50 Early Career Challenges
31:45 Mental Health Struggles
37:59 The Turning Point
39:42 A Turning Point: Speaking Up About Mental Health
43:23 The Birth of Operation Yellow Tape
45:06 Inside and Outside the Yellow Tape
47:14 The Importance of Sleep and Communication
57:56 Introducing the HELP Acronym
01:00:46 Expanding the Mission: Speaking to Diverse Audiences
01:06:06 Upcoming Conference and Final Thoughts

Jen : A Volunteer Perspective

In this episode (128) of 'The Things We All Carry,' Stack discusses the challenges faced by first responders, specifically focusing on the personal and professional struggles of Jen, a volunteer rescue chief and full-time paramedic from a small town in Nebraska. The episode highlights the emotional toll of working in a close-knit community where responders often know the individuals they treat. The conversation explores the critical importance of mental health support and the need for debriefing after traumatic incidents. Jen shares her experiences with the deaths of key figures in her department and her efforts to foster a supportive environment for her team, while also discussing her own methods of coping and self-care.