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Welcome back to Part B of our 100th episode celebration! If you thought Part A was powerful, you’re in for a real treat here. This episode dives even deeper into the struggles, the triumphs, and the raw honesty that our guests bring. We’re talking real change in the first responder world—personal transformation, shifting the culture, and the tough work of showing up even when it feels like the world’s against you.

We’re joined by Tim Sears, who shares his journey through inpatient treatment, retirement, and his ongoing commitment to his own wellness. Tim’s vulnerability in admitting when it’s time to take a step back and care for himself is a reminder for all of us—there’s no shame in needing help. Jason Warn brings us back to a time when everything fell apart, and he found himself at rock bottom again. It’s the kind of honesty that’s hard to come by, but that’s exactly why it matters. Monica Braun continues to be a beacon of strength, using her experience to help others—she’s speaking to new recruits, sharing her story, and breaking the stigma every chance she gets. And we can’t forget Michael Sugrue, who’s no stranger to hardship. After facing an unimaginable family tragedy, Michael walks us through how he found his way back to hope and continues to serve with strength. Lastly, Vance Row keeps the energy high, sharing how yoga has become an essential tool in his own recovery and why it’s something every first responder should consider incorporating into their lives.

These voices—these leaders—are showing us what real change looks like. It’s messy, it’s difficult, and it takes time. But it’s happening. Slowly, but surely, the culture is shifting. In this episode, our guests remind us that we’re in this together, and that change begins when we step up, own our stories, and do the work.

Stay Connected:

Listen, share, and let’s keep this conversation going. The more we talk about these things, the more lives we can change. Keep showing up for yourself, and keep showing up for each other. The work isn’t over. We’re just getting started.

DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop has been presented and sponsored by Whole House Counseling. After the Tones Drop is for informational purposes only and does not constitute for medical or psychological advice. It is not a substitute for professional health care advice diagnosis or treatment. Please contact a local mental health professional in your area if you are in need of assistance. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.

ATTD Music Credits (Music from #Uppbeat):

• https://uppbeat.io/t/vens-adams/adventure-is-calling License code: ANJCYVHRMULSNKQR
• https://uppbeat.io/t/vens-adams/rise-of-the-hero License code: H4WTAGJZIXZCM8DM
• https://uppbeat.io/t/yeti-music/homewardLicense code: KO7FZAIJBAEAJLKE
• https://uppbeat.io/t/sonda/the-heart-grows License code: KAID0ITO96GJZAPS
• https://uppbeat.io/t/philip-anderson/achievement License code: XZ4PMCKHW94GUR74
• https://uppbeat.io/t/tobias-voigt/nexus
  License code: MVMDRGHKHTJRABVR
• https://uppbeat.io/t/paul-yudin/breakthrough
  License code: FYPM3OJF0NQ4OGTE