In this episode of Fight the Burnout, we have the privilege of hearing from Randy Gernhardt, a remarkable individual who dedicated his life to serving as a police officer, volunteer firefighter, emergency medical technician, and military reservist. With emergency services consuming his life 24/7, Randy's responsibilities multiplied when he became a full-time Air Force Security Forces officer, leading to grueling work hours that included holidays and weekends.
As his career progressed, Randy assumed the role of Deputy Chief of the Air Force Reserve Security Forces, overseeing 37 organizations and approximately 5000 officers. In his leadership position, Randy devoted extensive time and effort to ensure the success of others, often working tirelessly from early mornings to late nights, sometimes even exceeding 20 hours in a single day. Unfortunately, this commitment came at a great personal cost, affecting his relationships and overall well-being, eventually leading to the decision to retire from the military instead of pursuing the rank of Colonel.
During his candid discussion, Randy reflects on a question he was frequently asked throughout his life: "What do you do for fun?" Struggling to find an answer, he realized that his profession had consumed his entire existence, leaving little room for personal enjoyment. He became known as "the guy" who could handle any project or solve any problem, further detracting from his own well-being.
As time went on, Randy's interest waned, concentration became difficult, and his health began to suffer. Recognizing that he had reached a state of burnout, he made the courageous decision to leave the organization in order to preserve his sanity and regain his health. With a total of 35 years of military service and 26 years in law enforcement, Randy embarked on a journey of recovery by relocating closer to his family.
Today, Randy finds solace and joy in spending time with his grandchildren, cherishing the simple pleasures of life and relishing in the company of his granddogs. With the support of a military pension and a disability rating from the VA, he has been able to prioritize his own well-being, focusing on realigning his pillars of spiritual, physical, social, mental, and financial health.
Join us in this inspiring episode as Randy shares his story of burnout, resilience, and rediscovery. Learn from his experiences and gain insights into overcoming the challenges that come with a life devoted to service. Let's fight burnout together and build a stronger, healthier future for those who dedicate their lives to protecting others.
Tune in to this compelling episode, and let Randy's journey inspire you to prioritize your own well-being and find balance in the midst of demanding professions.