What happens when every traditional treatment fails — and a first responder is still drowning?

Retired FDNY-EMS paramedic and Army combat medic Carmine Fiore survived 30 treatment centers and 15 heroin overdoses before trying something the first responder world rarely talks about: Ibogaine-assisted treatment at Ambio Life Sciences in Tijuana, Mexico.

In this episode, Carmine joins host David Dachinger and psychedelic-assisted therapy provider Candace Maisel, LCSW, for a candid, deeply personal conversation about what it took to finally heal — and what that healing actually looks like.

In this episode:

• What cumulative trauma looks like when it's been suppressed for years — and why it doesn't just disappear
• Carmine's Ibogaine journey: the childhood memories, the generational trauma, and the moment Ibogaine delivered a message about his late father
• The neuroscience behind psychedelic healing — BDNF, GDNF, neuroplasticity, and why the brain's post-treatment window matters
• Why psilocybin's 6-8 hour duration gives it an edge over ketamine for deep trauma work
• What integration really looks like — and why the medicine is only the beginning
• What Carmine would say to the first responder white-knuckling it right now, afraid to ask for help
• The Casey Skudin 343 Fund — and how it's helping first responders access treatment they couldn't otherwise afford

Responder Resilience is an informational podcast. The experiences and perspectives shared in this episode are not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Psychedelic-assisted therapies carry real risks and are not appropriate for everyone. Please consult your physician or a licensed mental health professional before pursuing any treatment options discussed here.

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★ Resources for Responder Wellness ★
• Fitness: FightCamp (code RESILIENCE for 10% off) http://joinfightcamp.com/rr
• Free App: CRACKYL http://crackyl.respondertv.com
• Book: Helping the Helpers https://a.co/d/dm0VS4Q

Contact Candace Maisel, LCSW
https://ct-psych.com/candace-maisel-lcsw
https://www.linkedin.com/in/candacemaisellcsw

Contact Carmine Fiore
https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmine-fiore-241a701a8/
https://www.instagram.com/carmine12285
https://www.thetravelagency.co/

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