In this episode of Sharing Without Shame, host Donna Marston sits down with Richard Evans, a former firefighter and paramedic turned addiction counselor, to explore the emotional weight and trauma that often go unseen in high-stress professions. With brutal honesty, Richard shares his journey from the rush of saving lives to the depths of addiction, burnout, and a near-suicidal spiral—all while juggling the roles of husband, father, and first responder.

Richard opens up about the cultural silence around trauma in the emergency services world, the dangers of “stuffing it down,” and how a lifetime of hard work and service couldn’t save him from the pain he refused to acknowledge. From 48-hour shifts and liters of vodka to a psychiatric hospital at Christmas, Richard’s story is a raw reminder of what happens when society fails to support its frontline heroes.

Together, Donna and Richard unpack the weight of shame, the importance of peer support, and the urgent need for trauma-informed recovery tools for those who risk their lives to protect others. This conversation shines a light on hope, redemption, and the long road back from the edge—with a powerful reminder that healing is possible when we stop hiding and start sharing.

Connect with Richard Evans

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/richardthecounsellor2/#

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/richardthecounsellor2/#

Website: https://www.rootedrising.ca/

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Thank you for tuning in! May your faith and strength heal your heart.