After The Tones Drop

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Tommy Bolin, a 28 year veteran in the fire service in Columbus, Ohio.  Tommy currently holds the rank of Lieutenant. Tommy joins ATTD to talk about his experience in turning his "mess into a message."

Tommy's journey is like so many others, but he has come through the other side and believes in the importance of sharing his  story with the hope of letting others know they are not alone.  That there are so many people out there suffering alone.  Tommy remains steadfast and passionate about the need for cultural change when dealing with mental health for first responders.  He truly feels this is his new purpose.

Tommy, alongside his good friend and therapy dog, work together to help spread a message of resilience and hope to other fire departments, schools and memory care facilities.  

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. 

ATTD Music Credits (Music from #Uppbeat): 

•  Our theme music is Intentions by Abby Noise, licensed through Upbeat
•  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

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On this episode of ATTD your host, Erin, delivers various tools and emphasizes the importance of practicing being present. 

We all know that first responders have incredibly demanding jobs. You face high-stress situations day in and day out, and it's crucial for you to find moments of peace amidst the chaos. That's where a mindfulness routine comes in. It's like a mental oasis in the midst of a storm.

One of the key benefits of a mindfulness routine is stress reduction. It's no secret that stress can take a toll on our physical and mental well-being. But by incorporating mindfulness practices into your daily life, you can create a space of calm amidst the storm. You can tap into techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or mindful movement to relax your nervous system, reduce anxiety, and recharge their batteries.

For guided recordings of each of the techniques delivered in this episode, visit  https://www.afterthetonesdrop.com/ and join our mailing list. 

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. 

ATTD Music Credits (Music from #Uppbeat): 

•  Our theme music is Intentions by Abby Noise, licensed through Upbeat
•  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

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Negative alterations in your mind and mood are par for the course when you're a human begin. A lot of us know that these experiences will pass as quickly as they came. Unless these alterations are a direct result of experiencing a stressful life experience. 

After experiencing a traumatic event, these alterations may exist like a storm that brews inside your head, messing with your emotions and how you see the world. In this episode the ATTD hosts discuss Criterion D of the PTSD criteria which is all about the negative alterations in your thoughts and mood that come after a traumatic event.

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. 

ATTD Music Credits (Music from #Uppbeat): 

•  Our theme music is Intentions by Abby Noise, licensed through Upbeat
•  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

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Kerrie understands the culture of first responders from her upbringing as a daughter of a firefighter, and growing up with first responders. Kerrie’s brother was also a firefighter for 11 years before his death in 2012. Kerrie’s personal and professional experience allows her to offer understanding and compassion in her therapist role.

Kerrie Murphy, LMSW has been a social worker for over 20 years and has a wide variety of experience in working with emergency services and the first responder population. Kerrie worked for years in medical social work, providing support to those in an emergency room setting. Through her work as a therapist, she has served first responders and provided EMDR therapy as a means of healing from trauma. Kerrie is also trained as a Critical Incident Stress Management mental health clinician and currently serves on the Mid-West Michigan CISM team.

If you are a first responder in Michigan and are currently seeking a culturally competent clinician, you can contact Kerrie by visiting https://www.frswm.com/

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. 

ATTD Music Credits (Music from #Uppbeat): 

•  Our theme music is Intentions by Abby Noise, licensed through Upbeat
•  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

Send us Fan Mail

Guest, Sean Woods has dabbled in various opportunities in the law enforcement world.  He joins our show to share in the steps and successes of creating a wellness program within his department. This program has helped many of his fellow officers and he bestows its successes to the many hands involved and the nature of the program remaining a trusting and confidential atmosphere. 

Raised in Long Island, his current position as FOP Chaplain requires he continue to arm himself with that blunt New York attitude. His vision to supply mental health and wellness resources provided him the opportunity to primarily help spearhead wellness for his department as a whole. 

After high school, Sean graduated from Cincinnati Christian University with an education degree. In addition to attending school he joined the Marine Corps reserve while in college. While still in reserves he then joined the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office in 1995 until 2000. His next endeavor then led him to his career with the Cincinnati Police Department where he has played roles for the last 23 years. 

Since Sean joined the Cincinnati Police Department he has served in the capacity as a patrol officer, field training officer, bike patrol, plain clothes narcotics and Vice unit. Beginning in 2015 he then got involved as a K9 handler while also being an operator for their SWAT team since . His many chapters with the department have evolved into his latest endeavor with the Fraternal Order of Police in the capacity of delegate and Lodge chaplain. Sean will be married for 30 years this month and contributes much of his success in his career to the support, love and patience of his wife and two adult children.  

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. 

ATTD Music Credits (Music from #Uppbeat): 

•  Our theme music is Intentions by Abby Noise, licensed through Upbeat
•  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

Send us Fan Mail

You start out as an eager rookie, ready to save lives and make a difference. You got the shiny badge, the uniform that fits just right, and you feel like a damn hero. People look up to you, trust you with their lives, and it's a rush. But somewhere along the line, it starts to change.

See, when you're a first responder, the job becomes your life. It's not just a 9 to 5 gig where you punch in and punch out. It's 24/7, no days off, and the weight of the world on your shoulders. You're constantly on call, ready to jump into action at a moment's notice. And slowly but surely, that's all you become.

You start to forget who you were before all this. Your hobbies, your passions, your dreams—they take a backseat to the relentless demands of the job. Your personal life can suffer, relationships may crumble, and perhaps you're left with this gnawing sense of emptiness. Maybe feeling as if you've become a stranger in your own skin.

On this episode, your ATTD hosts share their insights, personal experiences and tools catered to our hotline callers feelings of disillusionment and lost identity as a first responder. 

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. 

ATTD Music Credits (Music from #Uppbeat): 

•  Our theme music is Intentions by Abby Noise, licensed through Upbeat
•  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

Send us Fan Mail

You might think avoidance is your brain’s way of protecting you from the horrors of a traumatic experience. It's like your brain is saying, "Nope, not dealing with that nightmare again." But guess what? This so-called protective shield? It can actually blow up in your face. Avoidance can make you feel detached, numb, and even crankier than a caffeine-deprived cop on a Monday morning.

So, here's the deal: after something traumatic happens, your brain goes into survival mode, trying to keep you from reliving that awful moment. It's like your brain becomes this overprotective bodyguard, whispering, "Avoid anything that reminds us of that hellish experience."

Now, avoidance comes in all shapes and sizes. Let's start with Avoidance #1: dodging thoughts, emotions, or even conversations about the traumatic event. It's like slamming a mental door and saying, "Nope, not opening that can of worms." Then there's Avoidance #2: avoiding places, people, or activities that might trigger those nasty memories. It's like playing hide and seek, but instead of hiding from a friend, you're hiding from your own feelings. Clever, huh?

In this episode, we're diving deep into how avoidance works and, more importantly, how to do something different. Because, let’s face it, living in hiding isn’t living at all.

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. 

ATTD Music Credits (Music from #Uppbeat): 

•  Our theme music is Intentions by Abby Noise, licensed through Upbeat
•  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

Send us Fan Mail

Tim Sears, 44 year veteran of the fire service joins us again to discuss the tools he has been using to overcome PTSD and his work with Stronger Families.
 
Tim Sears joined Stronger Families with 44 years in the fire service, having served in 4 different fire departments. Tim was actively involved in water rescue, tillered ladder truck ops, safety committee, fire investigator, hazmat, PEER support, board member on KFFBA Benevolent Fund and active in his IAFF Union Local 2545. Tim retired in 2021 from the Kirkland Fire Department in Washington State with many department accommodations for his 30 years of service. Tim can be reached via email at

Who is Stronger Families?
Stronger families exists to offer life-changing relationship skills to military, veteran, and first responder families so they can be strong and thrive.

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. 

ATTD Music Credits (Music from #Uppbeat): 

•  Our theme music is Intentions by Abby Noise, licensed through Upbeat
•  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

Send us Fan Mail

"Tall" Tim, a 44 year veteran in the fire service, started as a volunteer in Toppenish on the Yakima Indian Nation Reservation at the age of 16. 40 years from the start if his career in 2018, he began waking with horrible night sweats, then nightmares. Soon his sleep was effected, unable to sleep 4 nights out of the week...then the thoughts of being "Done" for good began to consume him. Tim's wife, who he still lovingly calls has "bride" begged him to retire believing it would help his symptoms.  "NOPE" things got way worse. 

Then out of the blue, Stronger Families calls him about a job? Director For First Responders. He thought "Anyone but me" but the world had a bigger plan for him. After meeting with them a few times, he told them he thought their programs was great, but he was not their guy. He was broken physically, mentally and spiritually. His "bride" encouraged him to try thinking it would get his mind off missing being a firefighter and then he really learned what was wrong with him... "PTSD". Since then, Tim has been on a mission to improve his quality of life and recover from the unrelenting symptoms PTSD can bring about. He lives by the acronym CNEI, which means Constant never ending improvement.

After  44 years in the fire service, having served in 4 different fire departments. Tim found a new life for himself. Tim is now the Director of First Responders for Stronger Families.  Tim was actively involved in water rescue, tillered ladder truck ops, safety committee, fire investigator, hazmat, PEER support, a board member on KFFBA Benevolent Fund, and active in his IAFF Union Local 2545. Tim retired in 2021 from the Kirkland Fire Department with many department accommodations for his 30 years of service.

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. 

ATTD Music Credits (Music from #Uppbeat): 

•  Our theme music is Intentions by Abby Noise, licensed through Upbeat
•  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

Send us Fan Mail

When you know your mental health is taking a hit because of your work environment it can be a hard choice to leave without some residual aftermath taking place. In the competitive and ever-changing landscape of the first responder workforce, the phenomenon of workplace survivor's guilt has emerged as a challenging emotional struggle for some individuals. With so many positions available as a first responder it opens up the power of choice to move departments for the sake of your mental health. It wasn't always this way. Some folks find themselves grappling with the conflicting emotions of relief and guilt. This guilt stems from the fact that they have managed to make an empowered choice to move when those who have become friends and allies over time are "left behind" to get pummeled with non-stop runs.

The guilt can manifest in different ways, such as fearing their colleagues' judgment and resentment. These individuals may struggle with feelings of loyalty, wondering whether they could have done more to protect. In addition to grappling with survivor's guilt, feeling as if you've abandoned old co-workers can cause immense guilt, as these relationships were built on shared experiences, trust, and support. Cutting ties can feel like a betrayal, leaving individuals torn between their loyalty to their former colleagues and their need to adapt to the changing dynamics of their work environment and their mental health. 

Navigating workplace survivor's guilt and learning how to maintain relationships with old co-workers is a deeply personal journey. It requires individuals to acknowledge and process their emotions, seek support from trusted sources, and find a balance between self-preservation and compassion. Ultimately, understanding that they cannot control the circumstances but can focus on their own growth and success can help individuals find a path forward amidst the complex emotions that arise in these situations.

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. 

ATTD Music Credits (Music from #Uppbeat): 

•  Our theme music is Intentions by Abby Noise, licensed through Upbeat
•  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