Dear Chiefs Podcast

Explore the intricate world of relationships in this episode as Dr. Tracy Dalgleish, a distinguished clinical psychologist and relationship expert, joins us for an insightful conversation. Discover the secrets of fair play in first responder relationships and gain an exclusive preview of her upcoming book, "I Didn't Sign Up for This"

With 17 years of expertise, Dr. Tracy Dalgleish is on a mission to revolutionize couples' approaches to their relationships. Her renowned mental health practice in Ottawa, Ontario, has empowered countless individuals and couples to break free from old relationship patterns and rediscover the joy that brought them together initially.

Drawing from her extensive Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) training, Dr. Tracy's debut book dives into real therapy sessions and personal experiences, offering practical strategies to untangle relationship knots and find enduring happiness.

Join us as we delve into the impact of unfair labor divisions on relationships, especially within the first responder community. Dr. Tracy's insights illuminate the hidden layers of resentment and provide actionable guidance to strengthen relationships.

Uncover the significance of the book's title, explore the selection of case studies, unveil the true nature of couples' arguments, and discover strategies for "fighting fair." We also address the unique challenges of fair play for first responders, offering insights into navigating unequal labor divisions when one partner spends significant time away from home.

Embark on this illuminating journey with Dr. Tracy Dalgleish as we delve into the heart of relationships and unveil the art of fair play, all while gaining an exclusive preview of her upcoming book. Tune in for valuable insights that can transform your approach to relationships and infuse lasting joy into your life.

Order Dr. Tracy's Book

⁠I Didn't Sign Up for This⁠

Follow Dr. Tracy D

website: https://www.drtracyd.com/

instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drtracyd/

facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrTracyD/

Books Mentioned During This Episode

The Dance of Anger by Harriet Lerner

Meet Me At The Lake by  Carley Fortune

*Disclosure: We only recommend products and services that we would use ourselves, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This episode description contains affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a small commission.

In this eye-opening episode, we delve into a critical issue that often lurks behind the heroic facade of firefighting: the staggering rates of stress, sleep deprivation, and health problems plaguing those who dedicate their lives to saving others. We welcome James Geering, a former firefighter, stuntman, and Exercise Physiology graduate, as we candidly discuss the dire state of firefighter well-being and propose actionable solutions.

Firefighters are often regarded as symbols of courage and strength, but the harsh realities of their profession can take a heavy toll on their physical and mental health. Join us as we explore the alarming statistics surrounding the high line-of-duty deaths, suicide rates, and the long-term health consequences that haunt the fire service.

Our guest, James Geering, brings a unique perspective to the conversation. Hailing from England and having spent 14 years as a firefighter and paramedic in the US, James knows firsthand the sacrifices and challenges that come with the job. With his background in Exercise Physiology and experience in the field, James sheds light on the complex interplay between sleep deprivation, chronic stress, and the detrimental impact they have on firefighters' overall well-being.

James Geering is also the author of the heartfelt and poignant firefighter book, "One More Light: Life, Death, and Humanity Through the Eyes of a Firefighter." His profound insights and personal experiences serve as a testament to the resilience and vulnerabilities of those who answer the call to serve and protect.

In this episode, we tackle the tough questions: Why are the rates of cancer, job-related stress, and suicide disproportionately high within the fire service? How can we address the chronic sleep deprivation that exacerbates these issues? And most importantly, what can be done to turn the tide and ensure that those who risk their lives for others receive the support they need and deserve?

Through an engaging and thought-provoking conversation, we explore potential solutions that could make a substantial impact on firefighter health and well-being. James Geering shares his insights on the benefits of reducing work weeks, promoting sleep hygiene, and fostering awareness of human performance optimization. By arming firefighters with the knowledge and tools to prioritize their physical and mental health, we can move towards a future where the fire service is no longer a breeding ground for preventable health crises.

Join us as we uncover the stories that go beyond the uniform and siren, and learn how we can collectively take steps to ensure our firefighters not only survive but thrive in their noble profession. It's time to ignite change and give our heroes the support they need to keep our communities safe.

James' Book: One More Light; Life, Death and Humanity Through The Eyes Of a Firefighter.

Other books mentioned: Tribe by Sebastian Junger

(We may receive a commission for purchases made through this link)

Follow James Geering

website: http://www.jamesgeering.com

Podcast: Behind The Shield

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behindtheshield911/

facebook: https://www.facebook.com/behindtheshield911

In this episode we catch up with past guest Ashley Iverson and her significant other Phil about their journey as a couple, Ashley's work with Iverson Foundation for Active Awareness, Phil's experience as a firefighter, his battle and ultimate path to recovery from alcoholism, and the importance of mental and emotional health for first responders and their families.

Ashley Iverson is the most incredible human. After losing her husband Corey Iverson to the Thomas Fire in 2017, she began working to change the narrative behind mental health and resilience in first responders and the community. Ashley is a mother, mental health advocate, and jazzercise enthusiast.

Phil is a father, Cal Fire Fire Captain, member of the Cal Fire Local 2881 Honor Guard, and mental health advocate who desires to share his story of recovery in order to give hope to those battling their own demons.

Please direct any questions that you have for Phil or Ashley to Dear Chiefs Podcast through our website at www.dearchiefs.com.

In this episode, we are joined by James Boomhower of ⁠Stay Fit 4 Duty⁠ to discuss crisis care, and how first responders adjust that care when they feel at fault. We will also be addressing the very sensitive topics of loss and grief.

James (Boomer) Boomhower is the founder of ⁠Stay Fit 4 Duty⁠. As a lifelong healthcare provider and first responder, he knows the importance of first responders treating their mental and emotional health with the same fire and tenacity that they use to serve others. James is currently a graduate clinical intern focusing on culturally competent care of PTSD, family and relational wellness, stress, and burnout.

Books Mentioned During This Episode

⁠The Battle For Your Brain⁠ by Nita Farahany

*Disclosure: We only recommend products and services that we would use ourselves, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This episode description contains affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a small commission.

Follow James

website: https://www.stayfit4duty.org/

Instagram:  ⁠https://www.instagram.com/stay_fit4duty/⁠

Follow Dear Chiefs

Instagram: ⁠http://www.instagram.com/dearchiefspodcast⁠

TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@dearchiefspodcast?_t=8eSFDco5JOM&_r=1⁠

Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/dearchiefspodcast⁠

In this episode, we interview Brandon Dunham, former wildland firefighter, the host of Anchor Point Podcast, and cofounder of Grass Roots Wildland Firefighters Committee about his journey to becoming a wildland firefighter, the challenges of the job, the pay disparity for wildland firefighters and the escalating mental health crisis of the career.

The Anchor Point Podcast has gained international popularity in recent years by highlighting the people that fight wildland fires professionally… Garnering the attention of major news organizations and other advocacy groups as a “first-hand account” sounding board for the issues that wildland firefighters often face.

Books Mentioned During The Show:

12 Rules For Life; an antidote to chaos by Jordan B Peterson

We may receive a commission for purchases made through this link.

Follow Brandon + Anchor Point Podcast

website: https://anchorpointpodcast.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theanchorpointpodcast/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheAnchorPoint

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anchorpointpodcast/

Follow Dear Chiefs

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TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearchiefspodcast?_t=8eSFDco5JOM&_r=1

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dearchiefspodcast

Join hosts Audra and Chelsi as they explore the lies that first responder spouses tell themselves in order to cope with the stress and uncertainty of their partner's job. In this season's kick-off episode, they will share their own experiences with lying to themselves. They will also discuss the impact that these lies can have on first responder spouses' mental and emotional health, and how to break the cycle of deceiving oneself and heal.

This episode will also serve as a season 5 kick-off for the podcast. Audra and Chelsi will talk about the guests that will be joining them throughout the season and the topics for discussion.

Follow Dear Chiefs

Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/dearchiefspodcast

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dearchiefspodcast?_t=8eSFDco5JOM&_r=1

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dearchiefspodcast

Get some of Audra + Chelsi's favorite products here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/dearchiefspodcast

*Disclosure: We only recommend products and services that we would use ourselves, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This episode description contains affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a small commission.

In this episode, Dr. Morgan Cutlip joins us to talk about the mental load of the default parent. She defines what the default parent is, how we can avoid and/or manage burnout as default parents, what first responders can do to reduce the mental load for the parent at home, and even creative ways to keep communication open when the first responder is out of the home for long periods of time.

Dr. Morgan Cutlip knows what it feels like to lose yourself in motherhood, and she’s determined to help mothers navigate it better.

Throughout her career, she has helped hundreds of thousands of people worldwide learn how to form and maintain healthy relationships.

Dr. Morgan has been a featured relationship expert with Teen Vogue, The New York Times, Women’s Health Magazine, MOPS International, Loveology, and Flo, the #1 app in health and fitness, and is the author of two upcoming books with Thomas Nelson: Love Your Kids Without Losing Yourself and The Mother Load.

Follow along with Dr. Cutlip

website: https://www.mylovethinks.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmorgancutlip/

Books Mentioned During This Episode

Siblings Without Rivalry

How To Talk So Kids Will Listen

Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow

*Disclosure: We only recommend products and services that we would use ourselves, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This episode description contains affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a small commission.

There are a lot of FAQs about firewife life that we have answered many times, but we decided to do another episode where we answer all of your burning questions (pun totally intended) about being married to firefighters again.

In this episode, we get a little silly and also cover how to deal with being the default parent, how to be guilt-free about taking time for yourself when your firefighter is home, how not to worry about infidelity in the fire service, and a myriad of other topics related to being a firefighter's wife.

Mentioned On This Episode

Your Fire Department Isn't Tinder

First Responders Playing The Hero At Work vs The Anti-Hero At Home

Self Care + Resilience

Operational Mindset

Does talking about money stress you out? Help is here. In this episode, Courtney of Heroes Financial Coaching shares ways that you can insure financial wellness in your life. The main tops include getting and staying out of debt, setting financial goals, life insurance, and living wills + trusts.

As a veteran wife and current police wife, Courtney understands the stress that comes with the first responder lifestyle. There's enough pressure on the job for First Responders, and Courtney wants to help reduce the stresses that can arise from finances. ​Her goal is to help first responder families become the hero in their financial journey. She achieves this through one-on-one coaching, helping to define your goals, and making plans to become financially stress-free!

Follow Courtney

website: https://www.heroesfinancialcoaching.com/

instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heroesfinancialcoaching/

Mentioned During This Episode

Mama Bear Legal Forms https://mamabearlegalforms.com/ (discount code: HEROESCOACHING )

Every Dollar App: https://www.ramseysolutions.com/ramseyplus/everydollar

You Need A Budget App: https://www.ynab.com/our-app-lineup/

The Silent Shades of Sorrow by C.H. Spurgeon

*Disclosure: We only recommend products and services that we would use ourselves, and all opinions expressed here are our own. This episode description contains affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, we may earn a small commission.