Priority Traffic Podcast

Chris Warden

Welcome to the Priority Traffic Podcast, where we inspire and empower firefighters to prioritize their wellness, manage burnout, and build sustainable careers.

Join us as we come together as a community to promote personal growth and resilience-building techniques that will help you excel in your profession and in all aspects of your life.

In each episode, we'll deliver valuable insights and actionable strategies that will encourage open discussions about challenges and experiences you may face in your career.

Our mission is to create a culture of continuous improvement and holistic performance by providing clear, direct, and inspiring guidance that is grounded in authenticity and excellence.

Whether you're a veteran firefighter or just starting out in your career, the Priority Traffic Podcast is the go-to resource for all things related to personal and professional growth. Our goal is to foster a sense of community and support that will help you overcome obstacles and reach your full potential.

So join us on this journey of empowerment, growth, and authenticity. Tune in to the Priority Traffic Podcast and let's thrive together.

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Health & FitnessHealth & Fitness

Episodes

Ep. 035 | Kaizen Groundworks: A Unique Approach to Strength and Conditioning in the Fire Service
Mar 8 2024
Ep. 035 | Kaizen Groundworks: A Unique Approach to Strength and Conditioning in the Fire Service
Lee Throckmorton, a retired firefighter and strength and conditioning coach, discusses the importance of fitness in the fire service and the unique approach of Kaizen Groundworks. He shares his extensive prior service history, including lifeguarding, firefighting, law enforcement, and SWAT training. Throckmorton emphasizes each profession's different demands and mindsets and the need for a balanced approach to strength and conditioning. He explains the programs and training offered by Kaizen Groundworks, which focus on building aerobic capacity, strength, and resilience. Throckmorton also highlights the importance of setting goals and understanding the why behind training strategies. In this conversation, Lee Throckmorton discusses the importance of setting goals and training accordingly, the role of body fat percentage in performance, the purpose of Kaizen Groundwork, and the significance of trusting the process.TakeawaysFitness and wellness are crucial in the fire service; leaders should prioritize these aspects.Different professions within public safety have unique demands and require specific training approaches.Kaizen Groundworks offers programs and training to help individuals in the tactical sphere improve their strength, conditioning, and overall performance.Setting goals and understanding the purpose behind training strategies is essential for success in the fire service. Solidify your goals and train accordingly.Body fat percentage is not the sole determinant of high performance.Kaizen Groundwork offers training and consulting services for those interested in the tactical realm.Trust the process and be patient in achieving your goals.Kaizen GroundworksWebsiteFacebookInstagramPlease Like, share, follow, and subscribe! LinktreeYouTube InstagramFacebookPriority Traffic Podcast on Apple Podcast If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org
Ep. 034 | 9 Alarm Defender Gear: Protecting Firefighters Inside and Out w/ Levi Bousquet
Feb 19 2024
Ep. 034 | 9 Alarm Defender Gear: Protecting Firefighters Inside and Out w/ Levi Bousquet
In this episode of Priority Traffic Podcast, host Chris interviews Levi Bousquet about his journey in the fire service, his commitment to firefighter health, and the fight against cancer.Levi shares his background from a blue-collar family to becoming a full-time firefighter, highlighting the importance of health and wellness in the fire service. He discusses a near-drowning experience early in his career that strengthened his dedication to the profession. Levi also reflects on the Back Bay Fire in Boston and the lessons learned from that tragic event.Levi emphasizes the value of experience and skills from outside the fire service and the challenges faced in real-life fire situations. He talks about the origins of Nine Alarm and the impact of the Back Bay Fire. Levi explains the importance of raising awareness about cancer in the fire service and the discovery of PFAS. He shares the challenges of designing a solution and the support received from the Last Call Foundation. He urges firefighters to take small steps to protect themselves, such as wearing SCBA, practicing good hygiene, and wiping their skin.Levi highlights the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including healthy eating and exercise. He emphasizes the need for retirement savings and the value of time during retirement. Levi also discusses the role of leaders in the fire service and the impact of unofficial leaders. He encourages firefighters to take small steps for career advancement.Levi discusses developing the Defender brief and shirt, which offer particulate and moisture resistance. He explains the testing and certification process and the goal of improving the fire service. Levi urges fire departments to seek support and assistance in writing grants.In conclusion, Levi emphasizes the long-term impact of firefighter protection and the importance of leaving the fire service better than it was found.Big 5 takeaways:Health and wellness should be a priority in the fire service, and proactive measures should be taken to prevent cancer.Personal experiences and background can shape one's commitment and dedication to the fire service.Learning from past incidents and tragedies is crucial for preventing similar incidents in the future.Experience and skills from outside the fire service can be valuable assets in firefighting.Firefighters can take small steps to protect themselves, such as wearing SCBA, practicing good hygiene, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.9Alarm ApparelFacebookInstagramWebsitePlease Like, share, follow, and subscribe! LinktreeYouTube InstagramFacebookPriority Traffic Podcast on Apple Podcast If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org
Ep. 033 | Marc Hill, Author of Two Dark Thirty: True Stories to Inspire Learning and Teaching in our Local Heroes
Feb 5 2024
Ep. 033 | Marc Hill, Author of Two Dark Thirty: True Stories to Inspire Learning and Teaching in our Local Heroes
In this episode, host Chris Warden interviews Mark Hill, a visionary leader in education in the fire service and author of Two Dark Thirty. They discuss technological advancements and their impact on education and training, including resistance to change in the fire service. They also explore the challenges in the education field and Mark's transition to the fire service. Marc emphasizes simplifying complex concepts and the power of storytelling in teaching, and highlights the importance of awareness and the Dunning-Kruger effect. The conversation focuses on communication, training, and continuous improvement in the fire service, and the value of difficult conversations and leadership development. It concludes with information about upcoming speaking engagements and consulting work.Key TakeawaysThere is often resistance to change in the fire service, but it is important to embrace new technologies and methods to improve training programs. Evaluation and improvement are crucial in ensuring the effectiveness of training programs.The fire service has evolved significantly over the years, and it is important to adapt to these changes. Transitioning from teaching to the fire service can be challenging, but it offers new opportunities for personal and professional growth. Transitioning to a full-time firefighter role often involves teaching and volunteering.Simplifying complex concepts and using storytelling can enhance the learning experience.Awareness is the first step to learning and development.The Dunning-Kruger effect highlights the importance of recognizing our own limitations.Connect with Mark:website www.twodarkthirty.comFacebook https://www.facebook.com/02d30/LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-hill-679172a0/Twitter @twodarkthirtyInstagram @twodarkthirtyYouTube @twodarkthirtyPlease Like, share, follow, and subscribe! LinktreeYouTube InstagramFacebookPriority Traffic Podcast on Apple Podcast If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org
Ep. 032 | Firefighter Fueling Strategies w/ Megan Lautz (RescueRD)
Jan 19 2024
Ep. 032 | Firefighter Fueling Strategies w/ Megan Lautz (RescueRD)
In episode 032 of Priority Traffic Podcast, host Chris Warden interviews Megan Lautz, the RescueRD, a registered dietitian and trainer of firefighters and police officers. They discuss the unique challenges of fueling firefighters and provide tips and tricks for improving diet and exercise. Megan emphasizes the importance of sleep for firefighters and the impact of trauma on food choices. They also discuss the difference between dietitians and nutritionists and the need for tailored nutrition advice for firefighters. Megan recommends focusing on calories, protein, and fiber and guides navigating fast food options. They also discuss the role of pre-workout nutrition and caution against excessive caffeine intake. In this part of the conversation, Megan Lautz discusses the risks of pre-workout supplements and the importance of using them responsibly. She also provides insights into caffeine intake and timing, emphasizing the need to be mindful of the quantity and timing of consumption. The discussion then shifts to energy drinks and their high caffeine content, highlighting the potential dangers of excessive consumption. Megan also addresses concerns about artificial sweeteners, explaining that there is limited evidence to support claims of long-term harm. The conversation further explores the relationship between alcohol consumption and cancer risk, emphasizing the importance of moderation. Finally, Megan offers advice on managing stress, eating, and maintaining a healthy relationship with food, emphasizing balance and self-care. In this conversation, Megan Lautz discusses nutrition challenges for firefighters, focusing on hydration and oral rehydration solutions. She explains the importance of sodium and sugar for performance, particularly in high-intensity situations. Megan also addresses the dilemma of providing healthier options in canteens and the role of snacks and hydration for firefighters. She emphasizes using sugar for high-intensity performance and the importance of hydration for overall performance. Megan recommends useful resources, including books and websites, and concludes with the priority traffic of prioritizing protein and plants in firefighter nutrition.Follow Megan on each of her Social Media PlatformsRescueRD WebsiteInstagramLinkin BioRescueRD FacebookPlease Like, share, follow, and subscribe! LinktreeYouTube InstagramFacebookPriority Traffic Podcast on Apple Podcast If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org
Ep. 031 | Annette Zapp of Fire Rescue Wellness shares huge insights, her journey through fire and more!
Jan 5 2024
Ep. 031 | Annette Zapp of Fire Rescue Wellness shares huge insights, her journey through fire and more!
In this episode, Annette Zapp shares her journey into the fire service and her challenges as a female firefighter. She emphasizes the importance of firefighter wellness and the need for proactive strategies to offload trauma and stress. Annette discusses the four pillars of wellness: sleep, nutrition, mental health, and movement. She also highlights the impact of shame and gossip in the fire service and the need for self-awareness. Annette challenges the idea of exercising in fire gear and advocates for fireground-specific training instead. This part of the conversation focuses on the challenges faced by female firefighters, the connection between mental and physical health, the importance of holistic wellness, the need for professional intervention in firefighter health and wellness, the flaws of fit-for-duty tests, strategies for helping firefighters improve their health and wellness, the role of mentors in fire service wellness, and the future of wellness in firefighting. Finally, Annette shares her insights on the importance of human performance in fire departments and the need for collaboration and scaling. She emphasizes hiring meaningful professionals and provides information about an upcoming event in January. The main takeaway is the importance of caring for one's mind and body through sleep, nutrition, mental health, and movement.TakeawaysFemale firefighters face challenges due to ill-fitting gear designed for male measurements.Mental and physical health are interconnected and must be addressed for overall wellness.Proper training and support are essential for peer fitness trainers in the fire service.Health and wellness in the fire service require professional intervention and cannot be solely the responsibility of individual firefighters.Fit-for-duty tests need to be comprehensive and administered by professionals to ensure accuracy and fairness.Meeting firefighters where they are, getting them out of pain, and helping them achieve meaningful goals are effective strategies for improving their health and wellness.Mentors are crucial in guiding and supporting firefighters' health and wellness journey.The future of wellness in firefighting includes the widespread adoption of embedded health and wellness personnel in fire departments.Connect with Annette HERE:FireRescueWellnessFireRescueWellness on InstagramFRW BLOG Work with FireRescueWellnessHEREPlease Like, share, follow, and subscribe! LinktreeYouTube InstagramFacebookPriority Traffic Podcast on Apple Podcast If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org
Ep. 030 | Hard Work, Dedication, and Mental Resilience: Insights from a Fire Chief's Journey with Chief Dennis Reilly
Dec 16 2023
Ep. 030 | Hard Work, Dedication, and Mental Resilience: Insights from a Fire Chief's Journey with Chief Dennis Reilly
“Firefighting is a serious business, and it requires continuous commitment to knowledge, skills, and abilities.” Dennis ReillyCalling all firefighters and those looking to level up their personal growth! In this episode of Priority Traffic Podcast, we have the privilege of sitting down with Dennis Reilly, a retired Fire Chief with an awe-inspiring career spanning over four decades.Join us as Dennis shares his journey, filled with stories of triumph, challenges, and personal growth. As an Army veteran who served in combat and a seasoned firefighter who played a pivotal role in the aftermath of 9/11, Dennis brings a wealth of experiences and insights to the table.In this candid and engaging conversation, we'll delve into the mental aspects of firefighting and training, an often overlooked yet vital part of our profession. Dennis emphasizes the importance of mental resilience and offers practical strategies to support firefighters in coping with the intense demands of their job.So, grab your favorite mug, pour yourself a cup of coffee, and join us for an inspiring and informative conversation with Dennis Reilly. Get ready to ignite your personal growth and become part of a community of high-performers who are always ready to tackle the next challenge!  Unbeatable Mind – Mark Divine "Unbeatable Mind" by Mark Divine; aims to provide tools and techniques to help individuals achieve their maximum potential in any career or life situation through an integrated plan of warrior development.Leadership and Training for the Fight: A Few Thoughts on Leadership and Training from a Former Special Operations SoldierTested and effective leadership and teaching advice based on riveting combat stories from a Special Operations veteran.In Leadership and Training for the Fight, MSG Paul R. Howe, U.S. Army Retired, shares ideas on leadership that he has developed through extensive combat experience. Howe tells riveting stories of military operations and analyzes leadership concepts. He also gives advice on how to understand students and how to refine your teaching methods. Written with the unique insight of a Special Operations soldier, this book is the perfect guide for anyone interested in improving leadership skills in civilian or military situations.©2011 Paul R. Howe (P)2012 Audible, Inc.Please Like, share, follow, and subscribe! LinktreeYouTube InstagramFacebookPriority Traffic Podcast on Apple Podcast If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org
Ep. 029 | Writing for Our Mental Health with Dr. Trevor Kauer
Dec 2 2023
Ep. 029 | Writing for Our Mental Health with Dr. Trevor Kauer
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Trevor Kauer, a researcher and professor of interpersonal, family, and health communication at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.Dr. Kauer draws on his experiences as an EMT and working in a rural fire department to shape his research and understand the lived experiences of first responders.He is an expert in mental health among first responders, particularly their experience of stress, trauma, and difficulty.Driven by his passion for creating and testing practical mental health tools and interventions for first responders, Dr. Kauer is dedicated to being part of the change in the field.Please listen in as Dr. Kauer and I discuss the results of his latest study, learn from Dr. Kauer's unique perspective as both a first responder and professor, and explore innovative strategies, such as the expressive writing intervention, that have shown positive results in improving mental health.And while I have your attention, please, if you believe the first responder's health and wellness is the foundation of high performance and crucial to success in the field, click that like and subscribe button. Please turn on your notifications to stay updated on all the latest regarding wellness, performance, and personal growth. If this interests you, please share it with your friends and communities.  Thanks again for your support; now enjoy the show.Twitter/X: DrTrevorKauerGoogleScholar: Trevor KauerPlease Like, share, follow, and subscribe! LinktreeYouTube InstagramFacebookPriority Traffic Podcast on Apple Podcast If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org
Ep. 027 | Enhancing Firefighter Health and Wellness: A Conversation with Nick Magoteaux & Jim Burneka
Oct 6 2023
Ep. 027 | Enhancing Firefighter Health and Wellness: A Conversation with Nick Magoteaux & Jim Burneka
Join me as I sit down with Nick Magoteaux and Jim Burneka, two esteemed public safety professionals with a wealth of experience in the field. In this episode, they generously share their backgrounds, revealing how they became passionate firefighter health and wellness advocates.Nick and Jim recount their inspiring journey of how they crossed paths and forged a partnership that would ultimately lead to the creation of the renowned Firefighter Health and Wellness Conference. Learn about the conference's humble beginnings, the spark that ignited the idea, and their shared vision of making it accessible to a wider audience.Get ready to delve into the origins of the Firefighter Health and Wellness Conference as Nick and Jim provide precious insights into what inspired them to embark on this noble endeavor. Discover the driving forces behind Nick's focus on mental health and firefighter cancer and how these critical topics are thoughtfully addressed throughout the conference.As the conversation unfolds, explore how the Firefighter Health and Wellness Conference has evolved and expanded over time, impacting the lives of firefighters nationwide. From humble beginnings to a profound movement, Nick and Jim reveal the transformative power of bringing together firefighters from all walks of life under one roof, united in the pursuit of better physical and mental well-being.This discussion isn't just about the conference itself but an opportunity to gain invaluable knowledge, insight, and motivation to prioritize health and wellness in the fire service. Nick and Jim's dedication and expertise will empower you to make positive changes in your life and inspire others.Join us as we embark on a journey towards healthier, stronger, and more resilient firefighters. Whether you're a firefighter or someone interested in promoting personal growth and well-being, this episode will provide you with actionable advice, shared experiences, and a renewed sense of purpose.So grab your coffee, pull up a chair, and join us for this enlightening conversation that will ignite the firefighter within you. Firefighter Health and Wellness ConferenceFacebookBrothers Helping BrothersFacebookAPS RadioPlease Like, share, follow, and subscribe! LinktreeYouTube InstagramFacebookPriority Traffic Podcast on Apple Podcast If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org
Ep. 026 | The Inner Compass: Exploring Spirituality in Life & the Fire Service
Sep 22 2023
Ep. 026 | The Inner Compass: Exploring Spirituality in Life & the Fire Service
Welcome back to Priority Traffic Podcast, where we provide actionable advice, tools, and tips to help you become the best version of yourself that you can be.In this powerful and soul-stirring episode, join us as we sit down with two extraordinary individuals: Danny Dumas of "Earn Your Title Podcast" and Josh Chase of "Jump Seat Leadership." Together, we embark on an awe-inspiring conversation about spirituality, its profound significance in our lives, and how we harness its power to navigate our personal journeys and the challenging landscape of the fire service. Todays GuestJosh Chase:The Chase Collective LLC. Their Mission: Our vision is to strengthen, encourage, and empower men to live a life of purpose. I provide men with the capacity to withstand the pressures of life while offering leadership, support, resources, and services that instill and build confidence. Danny Dumas:Earn Your Title Podcast Their Mission: This Podcast is designed to put you in front of the greatest thinkers on the topics of leadership, health, communication, leadership, and general awesomeness. Buckle up, my friends, because this discussion will take you on an excursion of self-discovery, resilience, and faith. We explore what spirituality truly means to us as firefighters and how it influences our decision-making, coping mechanisms, and overall well-being.You'll hear how spirituality has become an anchor that guides us through the storms, keeps our spirits high, and ignites our passion to serve and protect.So, grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and join us as we dive deep into the heart and soul of spirituality in the fire service. Whether you're a seasoned firefighter seeking additional guidance or someone looking to explore the intersection of spirituality and personal growth, this episode promises to leave you inspired, refreshed, and ready to face any challenge that comes your Please Like, share, follow, and subscribe! LinktreeYouTube InstagramFacebookPriority Traffic Podcast on Apple Podcast If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org
Ep. 024 | From Special Forces to Empowering First Responders w/ Green Beret Dave Neely (Ret.)
Sep 4 2023
Ep. 024 | From Special Forces to Empowering First Responders w/ Green Beret Dave Neely (Ret.)
Welcome back to another electrifying episode of Priority Traffic Podcast. I'm your host, Chris, and today, we have an extraordinary story of resilience and empowerment to share with you. Get ready to be inspired by the incredible journey of Dave Neely, a retired Green Beret, Model of Resilience, and an all-around incredible human being.We'll dive deep into Dave's experiences, extracting valuable lessons and exploring how he's empowering first responders and military personnel through his work at INVI Mindhealth, O2X Human Performance, and The Honor Foundation.But before we jump right into the conversation, if you believe raising awareness around first responder PTSD and mental health is essential, smash that like and subscribe button never to miss an episode of Priority Traffic Podcast. If you could, share this fiery content with fellow firefighters, friends, and anyone hungry for personal growth and inspiration. LINKS:INVI Mindhealth :  Information about the Monster Mash and ways to donate can be found under the Monster Mash tab at the top of the page.Invisible Wounds Foundation: The app is free in Apple and Google stores.O2X Human Performance: The O2X Human Performance program supports organizational excellence through its battle tested multi-dimensional approach.The Body Keeps the Score #1 New York Times bestseller“Essential reading for anyone interested in understanding and treating traumatic stress and the scope of its impact on society.” —Alexander McFarlane, Director of the Centre for Traumatic Stress StudiesA pioneering researcher transforms our understanding of trauma and offers a bold new paradigm for healing in this New York Times bestsellerThe Psychology of Selling. Understanding the "psychology of selling" is more important than the techniques and methods of selling. Mastering it is a promise of prosperity that sales trainer and professional speaker Brian Tracy has seen fulfilled again and again.You'll learn:"The inner game of sales and selling."How to eliminate the fear of rejectionPlease Like, share, follow, and subscribe! LinktreeYouTube InstagramFacebookPriority Traffic Podcast on Apple Podcast If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org
Ep. 023 | Cultivating Awareness w/ Sheriff Josh Walker
Aug 29 2023
Ep. 023 | Cultivating Awareness w/ Sheriff Josh Walker
Welcome back to Priority Traffic Podcast! In today's episode, we have an extraordinary guest joining us. Josh Walker, a Sheriff Detective, husband, father, and musician, is here to share his passion for personal growth and evolving as a person in all aspects of life. In this enlightening conversation, we delve into the deep waters of cultivating awareness. We explore how awareness plays a vital role in various aspects of our lives, from our relationships to our professional endeavors.But that's not all! We also dive into the realm of emotional intelligence, where we discover why it's so crucial on our journey of personal growth. Josh shares his insights on the profound impact of emotional intelligence and how it helps us navigate through life's challenges with grace and empathy.As the conversation unfolds, we explore the power of self-awareness and its role in personal growth. Josh's experiences as a Sheriff Detective shed light on how cultivating self-awareness can enhance our decision-making, communication, and overall well-being.Lastly, we venture into the fascinating world of masculine and feminine energies. We discuss the importance of embracing and balancing these energies, not just in ourselves, but also in our relationships, both personal and professional.So grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and get ready to embark on this transformative journey of self-discovery and personal growth with our incredible guest, Josh Walker.Please Like, share, follow, and subscribe! LinktreeYouTube InstagramFacebookPriority Traffic Podcast on Apple Podcast If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org
Ep. 022 | The Tactical Athlete w/ Austin Womack
Aug 23 2023
Ep. 022 | The Tactical Athlete w/ Austin Womack
Podcast Episode Description: Fire Fighter FitnessCalling all Fire Fighters and fitness enthusiasts! Get ready to level up your fitness game as we dive deep into the world of Fire Fighter fitness in this episode. A special guest,   Austin Womack, MS, CSCS, and TSAC-F are joining us. As an experienced fitness consultant and Rugged Athlete owner, Womack knows what it takes to optimize fitness and avoid injury in the Fire Fighter field.During our conversation, we'll tackle a range of topics relevant to Fire Fighters, including defining the tactical athlete, self-assessments, fitness standards across domains, and finding the perfect balance between performance and recovery. With Womack's expertise and insights, you'll walk away with practical strategies to boost your fitness and enhance your job performance.Whether you're an active Fire Fighter or simply passionate about fitness, this episode will provide valuable insights to take your fitness journey to the next level.So grab a hot cup of coffee, sit back, and get ready for an engaging conversation that'll leave you inspired and ready to tackle any challenge that comes your way. Don't forget to lace up your boots and join us for this high-energy episode on Fire Fighter Fitness!(Listen on your favorite podcast platform, and don't forget to follow us on all our social media platforms for more exclusive content, tips, and tricks to fuel your personal growth and fitness journey.)Connect with Austin Womack:LinkTreeWebsiteRugged Athlete ProjectPlease Like, share, follow, and subscribe! LinktreeYouTube InstagramFacebookPriority Traffic Podcast on Apple Podcast If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org
Ep. 018 | Jump Seat Leadership w/ Joshua Chase
Jul 24 2023
Ep. 018 | Jump Seat Leadership w/ Joshua Chase
Welcome to Priority Traffic Podcast, where we share stories and insights to aid the personal growth and development of firefighters and those interested in living their best lives. In this episode, we are honored to have Josh Chase, a multifaceted individual with 18 years of experience in the firefighting industry, entrepreneurship, and military service.Join us as Josh shares his experiences and insights on leadership, firefighting, and living a life of purpose with our audience. We'll explore his leadership experiences in the military and the fire department and ideas on how to lead and coach others toward achieving their goals.At the end of the episode, Josh will share some actionable advice on how you can take control of your future and accomplish your life goals as he does through his business, The Chase Collective. Whether you are a seasoned fire service professional, an aspiring entrepreneur, or looking for direction in your personal and professional life, we're confident that Josh's story and insights inspire you.So grab a coffee, sit back, and enjoy the show as we embark on this journey to find purpose, growth, and improvement in our lives. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave us a review if you find value in this episode.Remember, you are an essential part of our high-performing community of individuals passionate about growth and development. We're always ready for the next challenge and encourage you to continue pursuing your personal and professional goals. Thank you for tuning in, and we'll see you on the next episode of Priority Traffic Podcast.Check out Jump Seat Leadership on FacebookPlease Like, share, follow, and subscribe! LinktreeYouTube InstagramFacebookPriority Traffic Podcast on Apple Podcast If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org
Ep. 019 | Keith Hanks: Advocating for Mental Health and Recovery
Jul 10 2023
Ep. 019 | Keith Hanks: Advocating for Mental Health and Recovery
Priority Traffic Podcast: Episode 19 - Keith Hanks: Advocating for Mental Health and RecoveryDescription:In this powerful and thought-provoking episode, we sit down with Keith Hanks, a former firefighter/EMT, who has found a new purpose in life as an advocate for mental health, substance and alcohol abuse recovery, and suicide awareness among first responders and veterans.Keith takes us on his personal journey, sharing how he transitioned from a rewarding but challenging career as a first responder to becoming a champion for those struggling with mental health issues in the same field. He opens up about his own battles with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and addiction, shedding light on the unique challenges faced by first responders and veterans.Throughout the conversation, Keith shares the obstacles he faced, the turning points that led him towards recovery, and the important role of therapy, support groups, and self-care in his healing process. He emphasizes the crucial need for mental health resources and education within the first responder and veteran communities.As an engaging speaker and advocate, Keith is actively involved in various initiatives aimed at reducing the stigma surrounding mental health, providing access to quality treatment, and promoting overall wellbeing. He shares valuable insights into the importance of self-care, peer support, and community integration, not only for first responders and veterans but for anyone struggling with mental health challenges.Join us for this eye-opening and inspiring conversation as we delve into the journey of Keith Hanks and discover how he is making a difference in the lives of first responders, veterans, and the broader community by fostering a culture of mental health awareness, recovery, and resilience.Key Topics:Keith's personal journey from firefighter/EMT to mental health advocateChallenges faced by first responders and veterans in relation to mental health and substance abuseOvercoming PTSD, depression, and addictionThe importance of therapy, support groups, and self-care in the recovery processThe need for mental health resources and education within the first responder and veteran communitiesKeith's involvement in various initiatives promoting mental health awareness and access to treatmentInsights on self-care, peer support, and community integration for individuals grappling with mental health issuesGuest Speaker: Keith HanksKeith Hanks is a former firefighter/EMT turned mental health advocate. After struggling with his own mental health challenges, he shifted his focus towards raising awareness about mental health, substance and alcohol abuse recovery, and suicide prevention among first responders and veterans. Through his speaking engagements and involvement in several advocacy organizations, Keith works tirelessly to supporPlease Like, share, follow, and subscribe! LinktreeYouTube InstagramFacebookPriority Traffic Podcast on Apple Podcast If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org