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In an unprecedented move, the hosts break new ground by incorporating recorded phone conversations with four different individuals. These raw and unfiltered discussions revolve around the central theme: "Do we have control of the things in our lives?" Listeners are treated to diverse perspectives, personal anecdotes, and moments of revelation as real people grapple with the complexities of control in their own lives.
Brace yourself for a groundbreaking episode of self-discovery and revelations as hosts Erin and Cinnamon navigate uncharted territories in their podcast journey. In a rare moment of vulnerability, they contemplate the idea of skipping an episode, acknowledging the tumultuous nature of the past weeks. This episode marks a pivotal shift as they explore the profound question: What if we don't have control over our lives?
The hosts candidly share their experiences of surrender and the unexpected lessons learned from moments when life veered off course. Cinnamon reflects on the delicate balance between holding on and letting go, recounting a personal journey where the illusion of control revealed itself in surprising ways. Erin adds depth to the conversation, delving into the nuances of trust and the fine line between steering the ship and allowing the currents to guide.
The interweaving narratives create a tapestry of insights, showcasing the universal struggle to reconcile the illusion of control. From gripping tightly to the reins and risking it all to the liberating discovery that some things lie beyond our influence, the phone call recordings offer an authentic and intimate glimpse into the collective human experience.
Join Erin and Cinnamon on this extraordinary episode that transcends the boundaries of conventional podcasting. As they blend personal reflections with the unscripted voices of their listeners, the episode becomes a unique and immersive exploration of life's unpredictable twists and turns. It's a conversation that invites you to question, reflect, and perhaps find solace in the shared journey of navigating the enigma of control in the vast expanse of existence.
We want to give a thank you and shout out to the band Lone Rover for allowing the use of their song "Any Other Way" for this episode.
DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop is shared for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It does not provide therapy, medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment, and listening does not create a therapist-client relationship. The views expressed are those of the individual speaking. If you need support, please reach out to a qualified professional or emergency services in a crisis. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.
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Meet Edward Curtis, the law enforcement veteran with two decades of street smarts. Currently rocking the title of Corporal, he's the guy in charge on the patrol beat, answering calls and keeping the community vibe strong.
But wait, there's more. Edward is no rookie when it comes to training. Certified by the Municipal Police Officers Training Commission, he's the brains behind the statewide police officer certification classes. And if that's not enough, he's also dropping knowledge bombs as an adjunct instructor at the HACC Police Academy.
Before the badge, Edward was a Probation Officer, dishing out wisdom as the Use of Force Instructor in York County Probation. Despite his busy schedule, Ed recently made the decision to utilize his limited downtime by returning to school. In 2022, he successfully earned a Master's in Social Work and is now employed as a licensed grief and trauma therapist, with additional expertise in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Tough guy on the streets, softie at heart.
Now, let's get down to business. In this episode, Edward covers the real struggles in law enforcement—officer wellness, therapy for first responders, the chaos of law enforcement family life, and the bumpy road to retirement. This isn't your typical badge talk. Join Edward for the unfiltered, no-nonsense insights from a guy who's been keeping the streets safe for 20 years. And hey, did we mention he's been happily married for 28 years with three daughters? Real talk, real life—tune in and get to know the man behind the badge.
If you are in Pennsylvania and in need of services or additional support feel free to contact Ed directly at https://www.griefrelieftherapy.com/grief-relief/staff/ed-curtis
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DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop is shared for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It does not provide therapy, medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment, and listening does not create a therapist-client relationship. The views expressed are those of the individual speaking. If you need support, please reach out to a qualified professional or emergency services in a crisis. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.
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You are about to embark on an uplifting journey with our extraordinary podcast guest, Jason Warn. Jason is a Firefighter Paramedic with 11 years of invaluable experience in the realm of Fire/EMS. Hailing from the distinguished career department of New Hampshire, his wealth of knowledge and unwavering resilience is set to ignite inspiration within every listener.
But this leader extends beyond the confines of firefighting, emerging as the visionary owner of Mindfulness Medic—a dynamic lifestyle and mindset brand. With a fervent dedication to promoting mental and physical well-being among first responders, he becomes a beacon guiding others towards the path of holistic wellness.
Join us as he delves into the depths of his personal odyssey—an awe-inspiring transformation from adversity to triumph. From the trenches of life's challenges, he has emerged not only unscathed but stronger, radiating a beacon of hope and resilience. Our guest's mission is clear—to impact lives and encourage listeners to unveil their true purpose. Within the realm of Mindfulness Medic, he advocates for a life marked by limitless potential and happiness on the other side of darkness.
Get ready to be inspired as we navigate the transformative power of mindset and the pursuit of purpose with our remarkable guest on this enlightening podcast. Together, let's uncover the keys to unlocking a life of boundless possibilities and unbridled joy.
DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop is shared for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It does not provide therapy, medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment, and listening does not create a therapist-client relationship. The views expressed are those of the individual speaking. If you need support, please reach out to a qualified professional or emergency services in a crisis. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.
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Note: This episode is in memory and honor of Captain Brian Durbin, EOW 11/19/2023.
In this intriguing episode, a caller reaches out around, grappling with the mystery of why they've held onto a newspaper article about the recovery of a daughter and father's bodies for so many years. Despite attempts to discard it, the caller is unable to part with the clipping, and even their spouse questions its presence. The caller, currently seeking professional help, opens up about the article's lack of emotional impact and the confusion surrounding its significance.
This special hotline caller episode covers the complexities of holding onto objects that seemingly hold no emotional value, exploring the deeper layers of human attachment and the enigmatic nature of memory and reflection. The narrative unfolds as the hosts attempts to unravel the caller's connection to the tragic event and provides insights into the possible psychological aspects at play.
They unravel the intricacies of applying logic to emotionally charged behaviors, emphasizing the disconnect between conscious awareness and instinctual reactions. The suggestion to keep the clipping until the caller feels ready resonates, with Cinnamon highlighting the commonality among police officers in holding onto such mementos. The discussion delves into the psychological impact of recovering bodies and the potential trauma associated with witnessing disrespect. Erin expresses a desire to work closely with the caller to unravel the backstory and understand the mystery behind the attachment. The conversation touches on critical incidents and the power of a single event to reshape the trajectory of one's life, offering insights into the emotional challenges of the job and the role of mementos in preserving and processing difficult experiences.
DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop is shared for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It does not provide therapy, medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment, and listening does not create a therapist-client relationship. The views expressed are those of the individual speaking. If you need support, please reach out to a qualified professional or emergency services in a crisis. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.
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In this episode, our hosts delve into the societal pressures surrounding the holidays, particularly the expectation to conform to a picture-perfect celebration. One of our hosts shares their experience of feeling immense pressure and the toll it takes on mental health, highlighting the anxiety, feelings of inadequacy, and the shadow of seasonal depression that often looms over the festive season.
Shifting gears, our dynamic duo explores the true essence of Thanksgiving—gratitude. They humorously connect the dots between "giving" and "thanks," emphasizing the real purpose behind the holiday. The hosts express their smart and witty take on the subject, unraveling the layers of meaning behind the tradition.
In the heart of the episode, the hosts get intentional about the benefits of living in gratitude. From mental health perks to physical well-being, they discuss the science-backed transformative impact of gratitude on our brains and bodies. The duo aims to debunk the perception that expressing gratitude is merely "woo woo" and emphasizes the importance of providing information within the mental health community about the tangible benefits of gratitude.
The episode highlights the detrimental effects of chronic complaining, shedding light on the structural changes in the brain that occur when negativity becomes a habit. The hosts explore the snowball effect of complaining, making it harder for individuals to break free from a negative mindset. They discuss the ripple effect on both mental well-being and interpersonal relationships, offering a fresh perspective on the power of gratitude in combating negativity.
Listen now for a candid and insightful conversation about navigating the holiday season, embracing gratitude, and the science-backed benefits of adopting a thankful mindset.
DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop is shared for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It does not provide therapy, medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment, and listening does not create a therapist-client relationship. The views expressed are those of the individual speaking. If you need support, please reach out to a qualified professional or emergency services in a crisis. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.
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We're often in this zone of anxiety, thinking it's just the norm. But guess what? It's possible that we're actually super hypersensitive and on high alert most of the time and aren't even aware of how it's affecting us.
Cinnamon shares her discoveries on a recent vacation that turned into a crash course in self-awareness. Erin chimes in, talking about all that woo-woo stuff like meditation and energy vibes, but hey, it's real. Now, here's the real kicker—they had this wild experience a while back that, in the grand scheme, is hilarious, but when it happened, it was just plain inconvenient and frankly jarring to their nervous systems. They realized how jumpy they were internally and how a seemingly small event messed with their whole vibe for days.
They want you to hear this so you can laugh at their misfortune, call them a bunch of idiots, but also take a sec to think, "Wait, do I do that too?" Then there's this chat about being "fine," and how it's not really an emotion but more like a vague response that hides what's really going on. Cinnamon drops the truth bomb that they were not as fine as they claimed during that crazy time. Fine is like saying, "Get off my back, I'm fine," without really addressing what's going on. They break it down, emphasizing the need for specifics when it comes to feelings. It's not just about being "fine" but being real about where you're at. So, buckle up for a rollercoaster of stories, laughs, and a friendly reminder to dig a bit deeper when someone says they're "fine." It's more than just sitting up and taking nourishment—whatever that means.
DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop is shared for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It does not provide therapy, medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment, and listening does not create a therapist-client relationship. The views expressed are those of the individual speaking. If you need support, please reach out to a qualified professional or emergency services in a crisis. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.
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This episode is a unique, unplanned and vulnerable episode delivered by Erin one sleepless evening. Erin shares her unexpected journey through the maze of personal relationships with those who "wear a uniform" for a living. It wasn't some grand plan; it's just a series of chance encounters that lead her down a path she never expected.
Now, brace yourself for the heart-wrenching twist. The climax of Erin's romantic escapades with first responders was a firefighter dealing not just with the physical toll of his job but also the heavy burden of severe PTSD. This wasn't a breakup saga; it was a rollercoaster of emotions, and the man she cared about deeply ended up succumbing to the demons haunting his mind. It was a gut punch that hit Erin like a ton of bricks.
But here's the turning point—it wasn't just the tragic end of a love story. It became the catalyst for Erin's mission. This firefighter's struggle, his silent battle with PTSD that ultimately led to his death, sparked something in Erin. She shifted from heartbreak to becoming a fierce advocate.
Erin's not sitting there just waiting for change to happen. No, she's out there on the front lines, challenging the stigma surrounding mental health in the first responder community. She's rolling up her sleeves, breaking down walls, and telling these individuals it's okay to not be okay.
Sure, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. Erin (and Cinnamon) face resistance, but they're not backing down. Fueled by the memory of the firefighter who kickstarted this whole mission, Erin's out here bulldozing through doubt and skepticism because she knows her efforts aren't just saving individual lives—they're reshaping the whole narrative.
In Erin's story, you've got heartbreak, resilience, and a whole lot of guts. It's like a romance novel with a twist—a love story that doesn't end in happily ever after but transforms into a rallying cry for change. Erin's journey is proof that from the ashes of tragedy, a fierce advocate can rise, determined to make sure no one has to navigate the shadows alone.
DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop is shared for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It does not provide therapy, medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment, and listening does not create a therapist-client relationship. The views expressed are those of the individual speaking. If you need support, please reach out to a qualified professional or emergency services in a crisis. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.
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Allow us to introduce Jessica Wiederhold, a dedicated professional who has been making a significant impact in the field of emergency services and dispatch management. In this episode, Jessica offers a raw and vulnerable reality check pulling back the curtain of a day in the life of a dispatcher and the various hurdles they face.
Jessica currently serves as the Director of the Clermont County 9-1-1 Center, a role she has held for a brief yet impactful 8 months. Her journey within the center began with her appointment as Assistant Director, where she gained invaluable insights and experience during a 5-month tenure. Prior to her leadership roles, Jessica served as a Program Administrator within the Clermont 9-1-1 Center, showcasing her commitment to the organization's growth and success.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Jessica is married to a firefighter. This connection to the world of firefighting has inspired her to recognize the value of peer support teams in fire departments, leading her to advocate for and implement similar initiatives within the dispatch center. Her commitment to the mental well-being of her colleagues is a testament to her compassionate leadership.
DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop is shared for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It does not provide therapy, medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment, and listening does not create a therapist-client relationship. The views expressed are those of the individual speaking. If you need support, please reach out to a qualified professional or emergency services in a crisis. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.
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Over the course of these two episodes, we hope we've done a sufficient job in helping our listeners understand what Adverse Childhood Experiences are, how they impact our developing brain and how our childhood experiences affect our now with the nesting doll concept.
In this final episode for our ACES series, we're really going to talk about, what to do about it now. Just because we've done these certain behaviors or reacted this way does not mean that we can't learn something new. We can adapt and grow. Our brains are miraculous. This is why we're obsessed with the brain, because it can morph and change, and this is where neuroplasticity comes in. The idea that despite whatever development our brain has already had, we can still create different pathways, new ways of thinking, it can adapt to healthier ways of being if that's what we choose.
These examples and more are discussed in this episode to assist you in understanding our potential, to reshape our brains and establish fresh neural connections through neuroplasticity. So, for our esteemed first responders, it's essential to remember that regardless of our prior experiences and conduct, we can acquire new perspectives and behaviors. Although it may require time, dedication, and purposeful effort, the opportunity for adaptation and personal growth is ever-present. By centering our attention on the present, recognizing our achievements, and practicing kindness towards both ourselves and others, we can rewire our brains and foster positive transformation.
DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop is shared for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It does not provide therapy, medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment, and listening does not create a therapist-client relationship. The views expressed are those of the individual speaking. If you need support, please reach out to a qualified professional or emergency services in a crisis. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.
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Today we're diving deep into the twisted maze of our past, like we're untangling a bunch of Russian nesting dolls. You know, those dolls that hide one inside the other, like a secret within a secret. It's a metaphor that's so on point because life is like that—layer upon layer, each one representing a version of you from a different time.
So, picture this: you're building up layers around yourself, just like those dolls, and why? 'Cause life throws crap at you, especially in your early years. These layers, aren't just for show; they're like your armor, your shield against a world that can be as welcoming as a porcupine in a balloon factory.
And let us tell you, the more junk life throws at you, the more layers you slap on. But here's the kicker: within these layers, hidden like a treasure chest in a haunted attic, are your younger selves. Yeah, those versions of you that went through the crap, the joy, the heartbreak—all of it.
Now, uncovering these little versions of yourself? That's not a walk in the park. It's a journey, a rollercoaster of vulnerability, courage, and resilience. You're peeling back those layers like you're stripping wallpaper off a haunted house—there's a surprise behind every one.
And how do you break through? Well, our podcast's got the answers. Listeners are encouraged to introspect and identify their own ACEs, whether direct or indirect. Understanding these experiences lays the foundation for transformative healing and growth, impacting all facets of life. We invite you to learn more about your own ACES by visiting the following link. Don't worry, your information will remain anonymous.
DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop is shared for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes. It does not provide therapy, medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment, and listening does not create a therapist-client relationship. The views expressed are those of the individual speaking. If you need support, please reach out to a qualified professional or emergency services in a crisis. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.
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Embark on a journey that goes beyond sirens and flashing lights After The Tones Drop Podcast provides a safe haven to explore, demystify, and destigmatize mental health and wellness for first…
Join Cinnamon and her guests as they pull back the curtain, sharing powerful stories and expert insights that resonate with the heartbeat of those who run towards danger when others step back. It's more than just a podcast; it's a lifeline for the ones who dedicate their lives to saving others.
In each episode, stories get unraveled and struggles behind the badges are shared, showcasing the human side of heroism. Discover the strength in vulnerability and the power in sharing. It's more than a conversation; it's a revolution—a revolution in mental health care for our first responders.
So, tune in for candid conversations, practical strategies, and a sprinkle of humor—because healing begins with understanding, and understanding starts here.
Let's break down the barriers, one episode at a time. Because after the tones drop, the real conversation begins, and we're here to make sure it's heard loud and clear.