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We’re Back! This week I sit down with a career firefighter, Stoic philosopher, and the founder of The Functional Man, Ben O’Brien. Ben reached out to me after hearing some prior episodes dealing with stress and trauma, and the effects it has on first responders. And Ben’s insight on the topic is vast, both through his role as one of his departments peer support officers, but even more importantly as someone who’s personally suffered the consequences of not properly dealing with the stresses associated with trauma. Ben talks openly about the impact this had on his own life and how he eventually came to a point where, in his own words, “I didn’t like the person I had become.” This realization is what sparked the fire of change! A change that would include living a more purposeful life, and with the help of Stoicism, a life guided by principles. We talk about identity, ego, and ways to break the stigma associated with mental health issues. For more on Ben and how to live fulfilled through purpose, be sure to check out his website The Functional Man.