This episode, we're unpacking a concept that's been a game changer for us and many others: the idea that relationships don't need to be 50/50 all the time but should rather aim for 100% collectively, however that splits. Inspired by Brene Brown's insights on vulnerability and support, we're talking about how sometimes, you might only have 20% to give, and that's perfectly okay—as long as the people in your life are ready to step up and fill in the rest.

We're also sharing our harrowing week battling an epic Ohio snowstorm, making every commute an adventure. Plus, our hearts are with everyone affected by the devastating wildfires in California. We had the chance to chat with a LA County firefighter just days before the fires erupted, and the stories of bravery and resilience are nothing short of inspiring.

So, whether you're giving 10% or 90% today, remember, it's about finding balance, communication, and mutual support. We've seen relationships transform through this understanding and hope you can take away something that helps you look at your interactions a little differently.

We want to invite you to Join us and Dr. David Griffin from the Charleston 9 at the 28th Annual Jackson Fire Expo in Massillon, Ohio, on January 18 & 19! This is a must-attend event with hands-on labs, breakout sessions, and EMS continuing ed credits. Don’t miss out—register now at jacksonfirefighters.com! See you there!

From Front Line to Home Front, Novus Backs Our Bravest. In partnership with Hometown Heroes, Novus supports community champions by making homeownership more accessible and affordable. This collaboration underscores Novus's role as a catalyst for change in the mortgage industry, aiming to simplify and improve the home-buying journey for those who serve our communities. Click HERE to connect with a branch manager.

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

It’s not easy to admit you’re struggling, especially when you’re supposed to be the strong one. Brad Savage, a 15-year veteran of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, knows this better than most. From serving in Canada’s largest cities to its most remote communities, Brad has seen and endured more than many can imagine. But his story isn’t just about the job; it’s about the unspoken struggles and silent battles so many first responders face—and the courage it takes to confront them.

In this episode, Brad opens up about his trauma, loss, and resilience journey. From his officer-involved shooting to personal tragedies, he shares how he once believed he had to carry it all alone. But finding Save a Warrior changed everything. Brad explains how diving deep into his past helped him understand that the job wasn’t the root of his struggles—it was the unhealed trauma from long before. He talks about the tools that helped him heal, including the surprising impact of meditation, which gave him space to pause, reflect, and reconnect with his family.

Brad’s story is a raw and honest look at the reality of life as a first responder. He doesn’t shy away from the hard truths like the cultural tendency to avoid vulnerability or the toll secondary trauma can take on families and coworkers. Yet, his message is one of hope. He shares why he’s passionate about peer support, how he’s breaking the stigma of mental health in policing, and why learning to “share your experience without sharing your trauma” is a game-changer for first responders everywhere. This episode is packed with insight, humanity, and practical advice for anyone navigating trauma. Brad’s reflections remind us that vulnerability isn’t weakness; it’s where true strength begins.

Learn more about Save a Warrior

We want to invite you to Join us and Dr. David Griffin from the Charleston 9 at the 28th Annual Jackson Fire Expo in Massillon, Ohio, on January 18 & 19! This is a must-attend event with hands-on labs, breakout sessions, and EMS continuing ed credits. Don’t miss out—register now at jacksonfirefighters.com! See you there!

From Front Line to Home Front, Novus Backs Our Bravest. In partnership with Hometown Heroes, Novus supports community champions by making homeownership more accessible and affordable. This collaboration underscores Novus's role as a catalyst for change in the mortgage industry, aiming to simplify and improve the home-buying journey for those who serve our communities. Click HERE to connect with a branch manager.

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

In today's New Year episode, Erin and Cinnamon warmly welcome listeners back after their holiday break, refreshed and ready to jump into the new year. They initiate a thoughtful dialogue on why setting intentions surpasses making resolutions, advocating for thoughtful, daily choices that significantly influence our personal journeys. Throughout the episode, they reflect deeply on the outcomes and learnings from 2024, emphasizing the importance of being intentional and holding oneself accountable. They discuss the pitfalls of traditional resolutions that often set people up for disappointment, contrasting them with the power of setting realistic, supportive intentions that foster growth and personal accountability.

Erin and Cinnamon share their personal anecdotes and lessons about self-compassion, highlighting how actions that build self-esteem can transform our self-perception and interpersonal relationships. They encourage listeners to engage with the community by sharing their intentions, thereby building a supportive network that echoes the podcast’s themes of growth and mutual aid.

The hosts challenge their audience to make meaningful impacts in others' lives as the year begins, emphasizing that each small act of kindness can ripple outwards to create substantial change. As the episode closes, they impart heartfelt New Year wishes to their listeners, inviting everyone to approach 2025 with an open heart, ready to embrace each day’s opportunities and challenges with grace and determination. This episode not only sets the tone for a year of intentional living but also strengthens the bond between the hosts and their community, paving the way for a year of transformation and collective support.

We want to invite you to Join us and Dr. David Griffin from the Charleston 9 at the 28th Annual Jackson Fire Expo in Massillon, Ohio, on January 18 & 19! This is a must-attend event with hands-on labs, breakout sessions, and EMS continuing ed credits. Don’t miss out—register now at jacksonfirefighters.com! See you there!

From Front Line to Home Front, Novus Backs Our Bravest. In partnership with Hometown Heroes, Novus supports community champions by making homeownership more accessible and affordable. This collaboration underscores Novus's role as a catalyst for change in the mortgage industry, aiming to simplify and improve the home-buying journey for those who serve our communities. Click HERE to connect with a branch manager.

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

Warning: This Episode discusses suicide, so please listen with caution. We were supposed to be on a podcast release break, but this one couldn’t wait. Sometimes, life throws you those days where grief and loss show up uninvited, and the weight of it all just feels too big to hold alone. So, we hit record. Raw, unfiltered, and straight from the heart, this episode is all about what we’ve been feeling—and what you might be feeling too.

We dive into the Anniversary Effect—how our bodies seem to remember the hard stuff, even when we’re not consciously thinking about it. Whether it’s a headache that won’t quit, unexplained emotions, or just feeling off, your body has a way of keeping the score, even if your mind is on autopilot.

We talk about grief, trauma, and the weird ways they stick with us, like an unwanted houseguest who doesn’t get the hint to leave. We reflect on the frustration of losing someone to suicide, the heartbreak of wondering “what if,” and the hope that comes from choosing to stay one more day.

This episode isn’t polished or rehearsed—it’s just us, being real, because some conversations are too important to save for later. If you’re carrying something heavy or know someone who is, give this one a listen. You’re not alone in this.

We want to invite you to Join us and Dr. David Griffin from the Charleston 9 at the 28th Annual Jackson Fire Expo in Massillon, Ohio, on January 18 & 19! This is a must-attend event with hands-on labs, breakout sessions, and EMS continuing ed credits. Don’t miss out—register now at jacksonfirefighters.com! See you there!

From Front Line to Home Front, Novus Backs Our Bravest. In partnership with Hometown Heroes, Novus supports community champions by making homeownership more accessible and affordable. This collaboration underscores Novus's role as a catalyst for change in the mortgage industry, aiming to simplify and improve the home-buying journey for those who serve our communities. Click HERE to connect with a branch manager.

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

Erin and Cinnamon are taking a beat to catch their breath after a wild ride through 2024. Five weeks of non-stop travel, trainings, and conferences? Yeah, they’re officially ready to park their suitcases, hang out with their families, and enjoy the holidays without living out of a suitcase.

But don’t panic—they’re not disappearing completely! While there won’t be new episodes until the first Wednesday of 2025, they’ll still be working behind the scenes, recording fresh content, and connecting with clients. Pumpkin pie might also make a guest appearance because, well, multitasking.

This episode is a big love letter to you—our amazing listeners. Erin and Cinnamon reflect on all the incredible people they’ve met this year, the ripple effects of their work, and the trust you’ve placed in them to share your stories. They even get real about the tough stuff, like the ongoing fight against suicide in the first responder world. Spoiler alert: the work everyone is doing is making a difference, even if it doesn’t always feel like it.

Oh, and did you know this podcast has gone global? Erin and Cinnamon share how After the Tones Drop has grown beyond the U.S., with listeners tuning in from Canada, Australia, Singapore, and the UK. And for 2025, they’ve got some exciting guests lined up from all over the world. The year ahead is already shaping up to be incredible!

As they sign off for the holidays, Erin and Cinnamon remind us to slow down, appreciate the small moments, and remember that gratitude and connection matter now more than ever. If you’re looking for a last-minute holiday gift, maybe grab an After the Tones Drop hoodie or sticker—because who doesn’t love a little podcast swag?

Thank you for being here, for laughing and crying with us, and for making this journey so special. Have the happiest of holidays, and we’ll see you in 2025 with more stories, more laughs, and a whole lot of heart. Love you all! 🎄🎉

We want to invite you to Join us and Dr. David Griffin from the Charleston 9 at the 28th Annual Jackson Fire Expo in Massillon, Ohio, on January 18 & 19! This is a must-attend event with hands-on labs, breakout sessions, and EMS continuing ed credits. Don’t miss out—register now at jacksonfirefighters.com! See you there!

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

In this episode of After the Tones Drop, we talk to Ryan Mink—former Army infantryman, law enforcement officer, and now a financial planner who actually gets it. This guy has seen it all, from the chaos of the battlefield to the mayhem of the streets, and now he’s using that hard-earned wisdom to help first responders stop screwing up their finances. Ryan’s no stranger to stress, and he’s using his unique background to show Ohio’s public servants how to plan for the future without losing their minds.

We get into Ryan’s wild ride from first responder to financial planner, how he applies the same tactical thinking to your bank account, and why you should stop thinking of financial planning as just a bunch of numbers. It’s not just about dollars and cents—it’s about your whole well-being. That means mental, physical, and yeah, financial.

Ryan also gets real about the stupid mistakes most first responders are making with their money. Like not having a will (yeah, it’s that common, don’t be an idiot) and blowing cash on insurance they don’t need. He’ll break down why understanding your pension is crucial, how to dodge the tax bullet, and how to build a plan that’ll take the stress out of life after the job.

But here’s the kicker: it’s not just about the financial stuff. Ryan’s got a ton of insight on the personal side too. He’s helping people avoid burnout, navigate career transitions, and figure out what they’re gonna do when they walk away from the badge.

If you’re a first responder—or you know one—who’s just tired of wondering where your money’s going or how you’ll retire without living off canned beans, this episode is for you. Ryan’s advice is straight-up, no fluff, and from someone who actually knows the pressure of the job.

Key Takeaways:

• Transitioning from high-stress jobs to some

We want to invite you to Join us and Dr. David Griffin from the Charleston 9 at the 28th Annual Jackson Fire Expo in Massillon, Ohio, on January 18 & 19! This is a must-attend event with hands-on labs, breakout sessions, and EMS continuing ed credits. Don’t miss out—register now at jacksonfirefighters.com! See you there!

From Front Line to Home Front, Novus Backs Our Bravest. In partnership with Hometown Heroes, Novus supports community champions by making homeownership more accessible and affordable. This collaboration underscores Novus's role as a catalyst for change in the mortgage industry, aiming to simplify and improve the home-buying journey for those who serve our communities. Click HERE to connect with a branch manager.

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

Erin unpacks something that may seem straightforward but packs a huge punch: asking better questions. Whether you’re a first responder, a partner, or just trying to keep the peace over family dinner, the way we ask questions can make or break our connections. Erin walks us through the art of asking questions that aren’t just surface-level but actually open doors to understanding, respect, and real connection.

This episode is all about taking a step back, checking your intent, and learning how to ask questions that bring calm and clarity rather than creating misunderstandings. She reviews seven tips to help you get it right, from setting clear intentions to avoiding assumptions. Want someone to really open up? Try asking in a way that doesn’t lead them to the answer. Erin gives real-life examples (her husband, bless his patience!) to show how effective questions can cut through the noise, especially when emotions are running high.

And don’t worry, this isn’t just about being “nice”—it’s about fostering better conversations at work, at home, and online (yep, even through all the noise on social media). So, as we roll into the holidays and reunite with all the characters in our lives, let’s practice asking questions that don’t just make us feel heard but also help us hear others.

Erin and Cinnamon also announce a break from Thanksgiving to the New Year. They’ll be back in 2025 with fresh content, but until then, go out there and give these tips a try. Stay curious, stay connected, and, as always, be kind to each other.

We want to invite you to Join us and Dr. David Griffin from the Charleston 9 at the 28th Annual Jackson Fire Expo in Massillon, Ohio, on January 18 & 19! This is a must-attend event with hands-on labs, breakout sessions, and EMS continuing ed credits. Don’t miss out—register now at jacksonfirefighters.com! See you there!

From Front Line to Home Front, Novus Backs Our Bravest. In partnership with Hometown Heroes, Novus supports community champions by making homeownership more accessible and affordable. This collaboration underscores Novus's role as a catalyst for change in the mortgage industry, aiming to simplify and improve the home-buying journey for those who serve our communities. Click HERE to connect with a branch manager.

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

In this episode of After the Tones Drop, we share the powerful story of Chris, a deputy chief with over 30 years in the fire service, and his wife Tara, an educator with a 25-year career. Their journey has been marked by the challenges of a demanding career, mental health struggles, and the strength needed to maintain their marriage and family. Chris’s mental health struggles peaked in 2021 when he found himself on the brink of suicide. An unexpected comment from Tara and an intervention by their son and a park ranger saved his life, leading Chris to begin a journey of recovery and a mission to help other first responders avoid the same darkness. Tara shares her perspective as the supportive spouse, recognizing the signs of distress and standing by Chris through every step of his recovery.

The couple discusses how the support Chris received at the Center of Excellence became a turning point, highlighting the power of connection and understanding. They emphasize that healing is an ongoing process, not a quick fix, and share the continuous efforts needed to maintain wellness after treatment. Chris and Tara offer practical advice for first responders and their families, stressing the importance of early conversations and strong support systems.

Their story is a testament to resilience, love, and the importance of community. Whether you're a first responder, a spouse, or connected to the emergency services community, this episode offers hope and insight. Check out the Copper Warrior program for support at copperwarrior.com and explore recommended reads like Fully Involved by Mynda Ohs and First Responder Families by Tanya Glenn for more guidance. Be sure to listen, subscribe, and share this inspiring story.

We want to invite you to Join us and Dr. David Griffin from the Charleston 9 at the 28th Annual Jackson Fire Expo in Massillon, Ohio, on January 18 & 19! This is a must-attend event with hands-on labs, breakout sessions, and EMS continuing ed credits. Don’t miss out—register now at jacksonfirefighters.com! See you there!

From Front Line to Home Front, Novus Backs Our Bravest. In partnership with Hometown Heroes, Novus supports community champions by making homeownership more accessible and affordable. This collaboration underscores Novus's role as a catalyst for change in the mortgage industry, aiming to simplify and improve the home-buying journey for those who serve our communities. Click HERE to connect with a branch manager.

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

In this episode, Cinnamon takes us through a concept that’s as frustrating as it is relatable: foreboding joy. Ever had a moment of real happiness, only to be hit with a gut-punch of worry about when it’s all going to come crashing down? Yeah, that’s what we’re talking about. Dr. Brené Brown coined the term, and Cinnamon’s here to break it down for all the first responders out there who know the dance all too well. For first responders, foreboding joy is almost second nature. You finally get a quiet shift, a thank-you from someone you helped, or even a solid moment with your family—and bam! You’re already bracing for the next big hit. Cinnamon doesn’t sugarcoat it: this constant “waiting to get hit across the head by that proverbial 2x4” isn’t just annoying; it’s exhausting. But here’s the twist—she’s got some ways to help you actually enjoy those moments instead of worrying about when they’ll end.

Cinnamon starts with the survival mode trap, something first responders know all too well. They’re trained to anticipate worst-case scenarios, which is essential for the job, but she challenges us to leave that mentality at the door when we get home. The first step in combatting foreboding joy is self-awareness—catching yourself in the act. If you’re mid-celebration and already thinking about what could go wrong, stop and acknowledge it. Becoming the observer, not the participant, helps break that spiral before it robs the moment. From there, she moves into the power of gratitude practice. According to Cinnamon (and Brené Brown), gratitude is the antidote to foreboding joy. But gratitude doesn’t come naturally when you’re constantly trained to look for threats; it’s a skill, and it takes work. Instead of letting worry ruin your joy, actively focus on what you’re grateful for in that moment. The goal? Enjoy the good moments without shrinking away from the risk of vulnerability.

If you’re a first responder (or just someone who finds it tough to let yourself enjoy the good stuff), this episode is your wake-up call. Life’s short, the job’s tough, and moments of happiness are fleeting. So, when those moments come, go ahead—embrace them. Leave survival mode at the door and let joy be joy, even if it’s just for a minute. Because, let’s face it, life’s too damn short to spend it bracing for the worst. For more resources, head to

We want to invite you to Join us and Dr. David Griffin from the Charleston 9 at the 28th Annual Jackson Fire Expo in Massillon, Ohio, on January 18 & 19! This is a must-attend event with hands-on labs, breakout sessions, and EMS continuing ed credits. Don’t miss out—register now at jacksonfirefighters.com! See you there!

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

Welcome back to another episode of After the Tones Drop! Today, we’re revisiting and re-releasing our second ever episode because, unfortunately, even after two years, the myths surrounding therapy are still holding on strong. Erin and Cinnamon dive deep into these misconceptions, especially within the first responder community. If you still think therapy is all about lying on a couch while a therapist silently nods, it’s time to bust that myth wide open. In this episode, we’re getting real about what therapy actually looks like—and more importantly, what it isn’t. Therapy isn’t just for people in crisis; it’s for anyone looking to maintain their mental health, process daily stressors, or have a safe space to talk things out. Think of it as similar to having a primary care doctor—it’s about prevention and maintenance, not just handling emergencies.

Erin and Cinnamon break down the role of therapists and clear up misconceptions about what therapists actually do. Forget what you’ve seen on TV—therapists aren’t sitting there with a notebook, silently judging or diagnosing everyone. They’re there to support you, guide you, and help you find real solutions without judgment. And just like any other relationship, finding the right therapist might take some time. Erin and Cinnamon encourage listeners to “shop around” until they find a good fit, reminding us that therapy isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s more like dating—you might have to meet a few therapists before finding the one that clicks.

A major myth they tackle is the idea that seeking therapy is a sign of weakness. They flip this narrative, emphasizing that reaching out for support takes real strength. Vulnerability isn’t easy, and it takes courage to say, “I don’t have all the answers.” Therapy isn’t about being weak; it’s about empowering yourself. Erin and Cinnamon also r

We want to invite you to Join us and Dr. David Griffin from the Charleston 9 at the 28th Annual Jackson Fire Expo in Massillon, Ohio, on January 18 & 19! This is a must-attend event with hands-on labs, breakout sessions, and EMS continuing ed credits. Don’t miss out—register now at jacksonfirefighters.com! See you there!

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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