The Things We All Carry

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.

Healing Trauma with Psychedelics : Matt Zemon

In a world where traditional treatments often fall short, especially for first responders and veterans facing trauma, the potential of psychedelics offers a promising avenue. During our latest episode of "The Things We All Carry," I had the privilege of speaking with Matt Zemon, an advocate for the therapeutic use of psychedelics. Our conversation, enriched with personal stories and scientific insights, sheds light on the healing powers and history of these substances.
To dive deeper into Matt's insights, check out his book "Psychedelics for Everyone" and the companion journal "Beyond the Trip." His upcoming book, "The Veterans Guide to Psychedelics," promises to be a valuable resource for those who have served our country. For more information, visit mattzemon.com and follow him on social media.
Explore the full podcast episode for an in-depth look at these conversations and more. As always, your support is invaluable. Share this post with anyone who might benefit, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Your feedback helps us continue these meaningful discussions.

Overcoming Tuesday : Part 3

Episode 126 is Part 3  with Jim, a retired firefighter from Ohio, who shares his personal journey of dealing with the mental health challenges of the job. Stack discusses the pressing need to rethink retirement systems for first responders to avoid forcing them to choose between their livelihood and mental health. Jim also opens up about undergoing an EEG brain scan that revealed his brain is in a constant state of fight or flight, leading to neurofeedback therapy to retrain his brain. From impactful personal anecdotes to the exploration of innovative therapies, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in mental health and the well-being of first responders.
 
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:22 Introducing Jim from Ohio
00:39 Challenges of Mental Health in First Responders
04:08 Jim's Brain Scan and Fight or Flight Response
05:02 Neurofeedback Therapy Explained
07:12 Jim's Personal Experiences and Reflections
18:48 The Importance of Mental Health Awareness
23:06 Jim's Neurofeedback Journey
31:45 Final Thoughts and Future Plans
32:40 Closing Remarks and Book Recommendations

Overcoming Tuesday : Part 2

In this gripping episode of 'The Things We All Carry' podcast, Stack discusses the unique challenges faced by first responders, including the mental health struggles and trauma they experience on the job. Listen to part two of the conversation with Jim from Ohio, where he delves into his own battles with anxiety, burnout, and the difficulties of asking for help. The episode also highlights the importance of teaching resilience and mindfulness at the recruit level to ensure healthier careers across various fields such as firefighting, law enforcement, and nursing. Join the discussion on promoting mental health and reducing exposure to traumatic events in first responder roles.
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
00:25 Host's Personal Reflections
01:41 Recent Episodes Recap
02:01 Building Resilience in First Responders
03:56 Engaging Conversations and Future Plans
05:21 Introducing Episode 125: Part Two with Jim
05:30 Jim's Journey: Burnout and Seeking Help
07:35 Challenges in the Fire Service
08:52 Jim's Role in Cancer and Behavioral Health
11:11 Struggles with Departmental Support
15:10 Near Miss Suicide and Policy Issues
18:57 Jim's Breakdown and Seeking Treatment
21:28 Center of Excellence Experience
34:35 Reintegration and Disability Process
39:10 Final Reflections and Moving Forward

Building Resilience for First Responders with Karen Deppa and Mike Donahue

In this episode of 'The Things We All Carry,' Stack returns with guests Karen Deppa and Mike Donahue, who discuss their organization, Pilot Light. Pilot Light focuses on building resilience for first responders through the application of positive psychology. The conversation delves into the science behind resilience, coping mechanisms, and the impact of social support. Karen and Mike share personal stories and insights from their combined experience in emergency services, explaining how their program aims to proactively prevent psychological injuries. This episode offers valuable perspectives on strengthening mental well-being and fostering proactive mental health practices within the first responder community. 00:00 Introduction and Apology 01:01 Meet Karen and Mike from Pilot Light 04:31 Karen's Journey to Positive Psychology 07:28 Mike's Fire Service Experience 11:20 Understanding Positive Psychology 18:06 The Three Pillars of Resilience 39:02 The Importance of Social Support 41:14 Personal Stories of Resilience 43:03 Compassion Fatigue and Its Implications 44:51 Challenges in Fire Service Recruitment and Retention 49:02 Teaching Resilience Skills 56:16 Incorporating Resilience into Daily Life 01:02:07 Final Thoughts and Personal Reflections This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thethingsweallcarry.substack.com