The Things We All Carry

In Episode 143 of The Things We All Carry we delve into the powerful and inspiring story of Tim Spradlin, a veteran, a retired firefighter, and a fire marshal who now runs a successful equine therapy farm in Ohio. Tim shares his multifaceted journey through trauma and recovery, his battles with depression and anxiety, and the transformative power of equine therapy. This episode not only highlights Tim's personal experiences but also explores the profound impact of understanding trauma, seeking help, and the importance of community support. Tune in to hear Tim's invaluable insights and learn how he helps first responders and veterans find peace and recovery. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:22 Reflecting on Personal Struggles 02:50 The Question of Doing Enough 05:43 Holiday Struggles and Support 07:58 Introducing Tim Spradlin 10:41 Tim's Journey and Equine Therapy 18:47 Military and First Responder Experiences 29:45 Healing and Helping Others 37:37 Understanding Herd Animals: Horses and Humans 38:23 The Healing Power of Vulnerability 38:47 Learning Through Equine-Assisted Activities 41:26 Personal Reflections and Childhood Memories 46:31 The Importance of Being Present 47:33 Combining Therapy and Peer Support 52:47 Daily Practices for Mental Well-being 55:32 The Journey to Inner Peace 01:04:32 The Future of Finally Home Farm 01:10:54 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Episode 142 In this powerful episode of 'The Things We All Carry,' Stack returns after a hiatus to share his personal battle with depression and self-reflection. He introduces his guest, Ashley Iverson, the widow of Corey Iverson, a firefighter who perished in the Thomas Fire of 2017. Ashley talks about coping with her immense loss, finding gratitude, and her mission to support first responders through the Iverson Foundation for Active Awareness (IFAA). She discusses mental health, the importance of gratitude, self-care, and how she continues to carry forward and make a difference in the lives of others. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:25 Personal Struggles and Introspection 02:03 Understanding Depression 04:17 The Journey to Self-Forgiveness 13:43 Introducing Episode 142 16:42 Interview with Ashley Iverson 18:58 Ashley's Background and Early Life 32:39 Meeting Corey Iverson 34:42 A Love Story Begins 36:13 The Proposal and Marriage 36:33 The Thomas Fire Tragedy 37:18 Coping with Loss 38:23 Mental Health Awareness 53:13 The Iverson Foundation 01:07:43 Elements of Healing 01:15:20 Moving Forward 01:19:59 Final Thoughts and Reflections

In this heartfelt episode of 'The Things We All Carry,'  Stack interviews grief coach Lynn Lewis, who shares her journey through grief after the tragic loss of her son to suicide. Lynn talks about her mission to help others by sharing her own story and the importance of grieving out loud. They discuss the complexities of grief, the misconceptions around the stages of grief, and the critical need for self-care. Lynn also emphasizes the emotional toll on first responders and how her work aims to break the stigma surrounding mental health and grief. This episode is a reminder that it's okay to talk about our pain and loss and that doing so can be a powerful step toward healing.   00:00 Introduction to The Things We All Carry Podcast 00:45 Host's Personal Reflections and Struggles 01:45 Dealing with Grief and Emotions 03:39 Upcoming Episode Preview 07:19 Guest Introduction: Lynn Lewis 07:34 Lynn's Story: A Mother's Grief 08:11 The Impact of Suicide on Family 08:26 Lynn's Journey to Becoming a Grief Coach 09:25 Encouragement to Share and Heal 10:19 Conversation with Lynn Lewis 16:35 Daniel's Life and Career 24:37 The Day of the Tragedy 30:17 Understanding and Coping with Suicide 41:02 Turning Pain into Purpose 41:14 Sharing the Story: A Path to Healing 42:34 Navigating the Stigma of Suicide 44:02 Understanding Grief and Its Stages 47:11 Acknowledgement vs. Acceptance 48:42 Creating an Action Plan for Grief 49:45 Dealing with Guilt and Moving Forward 53:16 Coping with Anniversaries and Special Dates 57:35 The Importance of Talking About Grief 01:06:58 Resources and Final Thoughts

In this episode of The Things We All Carry, Stack shares personal reflections on grief, healing, and change. Nearing the one-year anniversary of his mother's passing, he discusses the importance of family time, dealing with emotional pain, and the unpredictable nature of grief. The episode also explores managing retirement, overcoming feelings of being lost, and seeking community connection. Stack addresses common listener questions on topics like self-care, imposter syndrome, and finding the right therapist. He also introduces a new podcast, 'The Things We All Can,' focused on positive change-makers in the fire service. Listen in for a candid discussion about the challenges and steps toward healing, resilience, and community support. 00:00 Introduction to The Things We All Carry 00:45 A Personal Reflection on Grief 02:14 Dealing with Loss and Healing 07:10 Navigating Post-Retirement Challenges 11:17 Changing Fire Department Culture 15:29 Finding the Right Therapist 18:30 Addressing Imposter Syndrome 22:05 The Importance of Self-Care 29:09 Upcoming Projects and New Show 32:44 Call for Stories and Conclusion

In this comprehensive episode of 'The Things We All Carry,' we delve into the profound challenges surrounding trauma and suicide, particularly among first responders and military personnel. The host reflects on personal struggles, including the anniversaries of significant losses in October. Guest Mike, a trauma and suicide researcher and U.S. Army veteran, provides valuable insights into why these issues are so prevalent in high-stress professions. Key topics include the difference between being 'triggered' and 'activated,' the psychological theories of suicidal ideation, and the impact of addiction. The episode highlights the importance of trust, community support, and actionable steps individuals and communities can take to mitigate suicide rates. Join us as we explore these heavy topics and strive to foster better mental health support systems.   00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:25 Personal Struggles in October 01:07 Reflecting on Past Intros 02:08 Embracing Imperfection and Taking Action 04:20 The Importance of Conversation 05:14 Facing Personal Demons 06:34 The Power of Talking 08:24 Commitment to Self-Improvement 12:39 Episode 139 Introduction 13:04 Understanding Suicide 17:09 Triggered vs. Activated 23:12 Overt and Covert Suicide 32:16 Addiction and Depression 33:26 Interpersonal Theory of Suicide 34:41 Understanding Thwarted Belongingness 35:34 Perceived Burdensomeness in Veterans 36:30 Acquired Capability of Suicide 37:34 The Role of Past Traumas 38:55 Substance Use and Self-Medication 39:49 Mental Health in First Responders 42:33 The Importance of Continued Support 46:41 Community and Personal Responsibility 01:00:44 Changing the Narrative Around Suicide 01:01:29 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Join 'The Things We All Carry' for an in-depth exploration of the shared and unique traumas experienced by military veterans and first responders. Reflecting personal grief and the emotional impact of service, this episode features insights from Mike, a trauma and suicide researcher. It addresses the mental health challenges of these communities, delving into 'big T, little T' definitions of trauma, the spectrum of responses, and strategies for seeking help. Through poignant personal stories and professional analysis, we uncover the lasting effects of trauma and the importance of trauma-informed care. Tune in for a compelling conversation on coping mechanisms, camaraderie, and the drive to serve despite overwhelming odds.   00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:23 Conference in Beaver Creek, Ohio 01:19 Personal Reflections on Grief 04:00 Taking Action for Mental Health 07:35 Introducing Today's Guest: Mike 07:45 Mike's Background and Research 13:44 Growing Up in Virginia 15:59 Military and First Responder Experiences 21:34 Joining the Coast Guard 26:17 Army Career and Behavioral Health Initiative 27:21 Clinical Hours and Publications 28:11 Medically Retired from the Army 28:30 Ongoing Work and Connections 29:04 Focus on Trauma and Suicide 31:03 Defining Trauma 32:13 Trauma in Military and First Responder Communities 34:11 Trauma Responses and Their Impact 45:05 Conditioned Responses and Fight or Flight 54:25 Managing Crisis and Calm 57:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

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

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 4 3:03 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