In this episode of The Stronger Together Podcast, Michael Dixon welcomes retired police officer, author, and peer support advocate Syd Gravel for an important conversation about PTSD, operational stress injuries, resilience, and the power of connection.
After more than three decades in policing, Syd understands the unique challenges faced by first responders both during their careers and after they leave the job. His own experience with PTSD became a turning point, leading him to dedicate himself to supporting others and helping break the stigma surrounding mental health in the first responder community.
Through his involvement in peer support and trauma-informed initiatives, Syd has worked to ensure that first responders have access to the understanding, resources, and support they need. He has been involved with organizations and initiatives including:
• Robin's Blue Circle — a confidential peer support initiative focused on supporting first responders affected by traumatic experiences and promoting the value of connection and shared experience.
• Badge of Life Canada — focused on supporting the mental health and wellness of Canadian public safety personnel.
• Mood Disorders Society of Canada — advancing mental health awareness and support initiatives, including peer and trauma support programs.
Syd is also an accomplished author who has used his writing to share knowledge, lived experience, and practical guidance with first responders, leaders, and families. His books include:
• 56 Seconds• How to Survive PTSD and Build Peer Support• Walk the Talk – First Responder Peer Support (co-author)• Slay the Toxic Dragon – Police Leadership Impacting Member Wellness (co-author)
In this episode, Michael and Syd discuss Syd's journey through policing, his personal experience with PTSD, the importance of peer support, and why connection with others who understand the first responder experience can be such a powerful part of healing.
They also explore the role of leadership, families, and communities in supporting those who serve, and the importance of creating an environment where asking for help is viewed as a strength.
This is a meaningful conversation about resilience, recovery, and the reminder that no one should have to face their struggles alone.
About Syd Gravel
Syd Gravel is a retired police officer, author, and peer support advocate dedicated to supporting first responders and promoting awareness around PTSD, operational stress injuries, and mental wellness. Through his personal journey, writing, and advocacy work, Syd continues to encourage conversations that help others find connection, understanding, and hope.
Behind this podcast is Funeral Professionals Peer Support (FPPS), a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing meaningful peer support and resources for funeral professionals. FPPS exists to foster connection, understanding, and care within a profession that often supports others before itself.
Learn more
https://funeralspeersupport.co
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OUR SPONSOR
Funeral Support Services shares FPPS's belief that caring for those who serve families during life's most difficult moments is essential. We are grateful for their partnership and their ongoing support of initiatives that strengthen the profession through understanding, compassion, and community.
Learn more
https://funeralsupport.co.jp
CHAPTERS
HOSTS
Anne Caldwell
Michael Dixon – Founder & President, Funeral Professionals Peer Support (FPPS)
EXCLUSIVE PRODUCER
Peter Jaekel
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PROFESSIONAL & CRISIS RESOURCES
• Crisis & Suicide Prevention (Canada)
Phone: 988 (available 24/7)
Website: https://988.ca
• Crisis Text Line (Canada & U.S.)
Text HOME to 741741 (free, confidential support)
Website: https://www.crisistextline.org
• Remembering A Life
Website: http://www.rememberingalife.com
Resources: Grief education and remembrance resources that help families honor and remember loved ones
• National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA)
Phone: 800-228-6332
Website: https://www.nfda.org
Resources: Continuing education, peer support, professional tools
• Canadian Funeral Directors Association (CFDA)
Phone: 1-877-688-2332
Website: https://cfda.ca
Resources: Training, advocacy, networking
• Cremation Association of North America (CANA)
Phone: 866-426-2621
Website: https://www.cremationassociation.org
• Ontario Funeral and Cremation Association (OFCA)
Phone: 1-800-287-7636
Website: https://www.ofca.org
• International Cemetery, Cremation and Funeral Association (ICCFA) (United States)
Website: https://iccfa.com
