Melody Mesmer tells the story behind Foundation 1023, a peer driven nonprofit born after a string of 2015 line of duty tragedies.

Melody explains how 1023 (Kristen McLean’s badge number) connects first responders, dispatchers, medical crews, tow operators and families in Texas and Colorado to culturally competent, trauma informed counselors, peer support training, and outdoor resiliency programs like paddle boarding and movement-based therapies.

She covers what early intervention looks like, how peer support reduces isolation, confidentiality protections for peer teams, and practical steps to access help. Melody emphasizes rural volunteer gaps, the importance of community outside the workplace, and why asking for help is a hero’s act.

This podcast is brought to you by Medical Shipment: https://medicalshipment.com/