The Things We All Carry

Join 'The Things We All Carry' for an in-depth exploration of the shared and unique traumas experienced by military veterans and first responders. Reflecting personal grief and the emotional impact of service, this episode features insights from Mike, a trauma and suicide researcher. It addresses the mental health challenges of these communities, delving into 'big T, little T' definitions of trauma, the spectrum of responses, and strategies for seeking help. Through poignant personal stories and professional analysis, we uncover the lasting effects of trauma and the importance of trauma-informed care. Tune in for a compelling conversation on coping mechanisms, camaraderie, and the drive to serve despite overwhelming odds.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:23 Conference in Beaver Creek, Ohio

01:19 Personal Reflections on Grief

04:00 Taking Action for Mental Health

07:35 Introducing Today's Guest: Mike

07:45 Mike's Background and Research

13:44 Growing Up in Virginia

15:59 Military and First Responder Experiences

21:34 Joining the Coast Guard

26:17 Army Career and Behavioral Health Initiative

27:21 Clinical Hours and Publications

28:11 Medically Retired from the Army

28:30 Ongoing Work and Connections

29:04 Focus on Trauma and Suicide

31:03 Defining Trauma

32:13 Trauma in Military and First Responder Communities

34:11 Trauma Responses and Their Impact

45:05 Conditioned Responses and Fight or Flight

54:25 Managing Crisis and Calm

57:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode, the focus is on the transformative power of mindfulness for first responders. This episode features Josh, a fire captain and founder of Foundation Fortified. The discussion highlights how mindfulness and meditation can be crucial tools for managing trauma, enhancing focus, and improving mental well-being in high-stress professions. Josh shares his mission to make mindfulness accessible through various platforms, addressing its benefits for both professional and personal life, including for families and children of first responders. The conversation also draws parallels between mindfulness and situational awareness training, emphasizing improved decision-making under stress. Listeners are offered insights into the potential of mindfulness to reshape approaches to mental health and the importance of nonfiction literature in understanding human culture.

00:00 Introduction to The Things We All Carry

00:25 Personal Reflections and Family Memories

02:32 Struggles with Grief and Self-Improvement

03:42 Commitment to Therapy and Personal Growth

07:08 Episode 137: Featuring Josh from Foundation Fortified

09:16 Josh's Background and Mindfulness Journey

10:05 Understanding Mindfulness and Meditation

13:01 Mindfulness for First Responders

37:02 Practical Steps to Start Mindfulness

42:27 The Essence of Mindfulness

42:53 Finding Joy in the Present Moment

43:21 Explaining Mindfulness to Others

44:06 The Mind's Role in Dissatisfaction

45:46 Training the Mind Against Unhappiness

46:16 Mindfulness and Suffering

47:05 The Importance of Mindfulness in Daily Life

47:47 Mindfulness as a Trainable Skill

49:06 Mindfulness for First Responders

49:55 Mindfulness Practice and Emotional Waves

50:20 The Future of Mindfulness in the Industry

53:10 Mindfulness Resources and Programs

54:18 Mindfulness for Families and Children

55:17 Daily Mindfulness Practice for First Responders

57:47 The Journey of Creating Mindfulness Content

01:03:30 Mindfulness and Leadership

01:05:34 The Impact of Technology on Attention

01:13:10 Mindfulness in High-Stress Situations

01:16:18 The Benefits of Mindfulness Practice

01:18:20 Experiencing Awe Through Mindfulness

01:20:35 Book Recommendations and Final Thoughts

In this episode of 'The Things We All Carry,' we explore the mental health challenges and recovery journeys of first responders. Featuring a profound conversation with Brandon, a firefighter from Cincinnati, who shares his battle with PTSD and his experience with stellar ganglion block treatment. The episode highlights the importance of therapy, the impact of traumatic calls, peer support, and the fight to break mental health stigmas. Additionally, practical strategies for managing mental health, including therapy, meditation, and supportive family interactions, are discussed, offering valuable insights for coping with job-related stress and fostering personal growth.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:28 Reflecting on Conversations with Former Guests

01:09 Challenges of Returning from Inpatient Treatment

06:30 Personal Struggles and Seeking Help

08:16 Introducing Episode 136: Brandon's Story

11:44 Brandon's Background and Fire Service Journey

12:12 Growing Up in a Firefighting Family

21:51 Dealing with ADHD and Personal Challenges

29:41 Joining the Marine Corps and Facing Setbacks

34:11 Pursuing a Career in the Fire Service

36:29 Navigating Multiple Departments

37:11 Paramedic School and Injury

38:20 Facing Physical Limitations

39:02 Transition to Hospital Work

40:49 Struggles with PTSD

49:55 Therapy and Recovery Journey

53:51 Finding Effective Therapy

55:54 The Impact of ART Therapy

57:50 Stella Ganglion Block Experience

01:08:51 Daily Rituals and Mental Health

01:10:10 Department's Mental Health Approach

01:12:31 Moments of Awe and Reflection

01:13:44 Book Recommendations and Closing

In this episode, Stack dives deep into the nuanced and often complex experiences of grief, particularly as it relates to first responders. The episode underscores the importance of open discussion and healthy management of grief and trauma. This week's guest, Jamie, the Clinical Director of The Battle Within, shares her personal experiences and insights into trauma-informed care. The Battle Within is an organization dedicated to providing mental and behavioral support to veterans and first responders. Jamie elaborates on their flagship program, the Revenant Journey, a five-day intensive workshop designed to arm participants with essential coping skills and tools. Additional programs such as the Frontline Therapy Network and Dogs for Valor also aim to support individuals dealing with trauma. Tune in to learn more about the impact of grief, the importance of talking about it, and the valuable resources available through The Battle Within.

00:00 Introduction to The Things We All Carry

00:28 Exploring the Theme of Grief

01:49 Personal Stories of Loss

05:04 The Importance of Healing Out Loud

08:44 Introducing Jamie from The Battle Within

14:05 Jamie's Background and Childhood

16:54 Jamie's Professional Journey

19:15 The Impact of Personal Trauma

21:35 Challenges in Systemic Support

27:01 Integrating Professional and Personal Experiences

29:29 Joining the Club: Embracing the Battle Within

29:48 Origins of the Battle Within

31:13 Personal Journey to the Battle Within

34:10 Core Programs of the Battle Within

34:27 The Revenant Journey: A Deep Dive

35:28 Holistic Healing Approaches

40:27 Building Community and Vulnerability

43:35 Measuring Success and Testimonials

47:44 Getting Involved and Additional Programs

54:26 Cost and Logistics

55:05 Moments of Awe and Book Recommendations

01:01:51 Final Thoughts and Farewell

In this episode of 'The Things We All Carry,' Stack interviews Brad, a recently retired firefighter from Ohio with a background in the Navy. Brad shares his journey from working in crash and salvage on a flight deck to becoming a dedicated firefighter. He discusses the significant impact of the opioid epidemic on his career, his struggles with the mental toll of the job, and his current pursuit of a degree in psychology and counseling to help first responders. Tune in for a compelling conversation about trauma, recovery, and the importance of peer support in the firefighting community.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:22 Stepping Out of the Comfort Zone

00:43 Operation Yellow Tape Event

01:56 Engaging with the Community

06:26 Upcoming Appearances and Reflections

07:55 Episode 134 Introduction

08:04 Interview with Brad: Life After Fire Service

12:38 Brad's Background and Early Life

17:07 Military Service and Challenges

26:40 Transition to Firefighting

29:36 Reflecting on a Firefighting Career

29:58 Challenges and Realizations

32:13 Types of Calls and Community Dynamics

33:57 Impact of the Heroin Epidemic

36:00 Personal Struggles and Peer Support

37:10 Transition to Therapy and Retirement

38:27 Ongoing Involvement and Future Plans

40:43 Final Thoughts and Reflections

48:31 Conclusion and Farewell

Join us for Episode 133, featuring an inspiring conversation with TJ Webb, a retired police officer, public speaker, and health coach. Webb recounts a horrific shootout in December 2020 that left him with severe injuries, and his subsequent, grueling recovery. During this transformative period, he founded the Fit for Duty Foundation to promote physical fitness among first responders. Webb shares his challenges and triumphs, including his participation in the '30 Days of Murph' challenge, the writing of his book 'Just One More,' and his mission to motivate others through public speaking. Prepare to be moved by a powerful story of resilience, community support, and the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:23 Personal Struggles and Emotional Reflections

05:03 Upcoming Event: Operation Yellow Tape

06:18 Introducing This Week's Guest: T.J. Webb

09:55 T.J. Webb's Background and Career

23:11 The Day That Changed Everything

39:53 Setting a Bold Recovery Goal

40:29 First Steps in Rehab

42:08 Creating a Motivational Sign

45:50 Small Steps to Big Goals

48:58 Achieving the Impossible

55:37 Mental Resilience and Family Support

01:02:09 Launching the Fit for Duty Foundation

01:07:28 Daily Discipline and New Challenges

01:11:46 Final Reflections and Future Plans

In this episode of The Things We All Carry we journey through nearly three decades of Bruce's life, starting from his early days as a rookie to his current position of Battalion Chief. Explore his professional growth, coping mechanisms, and personal milestones, including meeting his wife and raising a family. Additionally, gain heartfelt insights into the differences and deep emotional connections between parenting and grandparenting. This episode offers a profound look into the joys, challenges, and legacies that shape our lives, both in our careers and family bonds.

00:00 Starting the Firefighting Journey

00:28 Early Challenges and Realizations

01:17 Career Progression and Training

04:22 Becoming a Paramedic

07:24 Personal Life and Family

09:11 A Life-Changing Call

16:36 Coping with Trauma

33:11 Trust and Relationships

37:43 Evolution of Mental Health Support

37:58 Peer Support and Its Challenges

40:04 Adopt a Firehouse Program

41:17 Resiliency Center and Modern Approaches

43:09 Personal Approach to Mental Health

45:58 Financial Security for Firefighters

50:20 Disconnecting from Work

55:21 Building Strong Relationships

57:16 Department-Wide Mental Health Initiatives

01:01:16 Leadership and Availability

01:04:39 Final Thoughts and Reflections

In this episode of 'The Things We All Carry,' we delve into the life story of Bruce, a battalion chief with over 30 years of experience in the fire service. Stack dives deep into Bruce's early life marked by severe abuse, his path to independence at age 16, and his eventual career in firefighting. The episode tackles heavy themes such as trauma, resilience, and the evolving societal views on public service. With candid discussions about the difficulties Bruce faced both personally and professionally, this episode offers a raw and impactful look at what it means to carry on in the face of adversity.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:25 Apology for No Video

01:04 Introducing Bruce and Episode 131

01:46 The Importance of Civil Discourse

04:55 Challenges in the Fire Service

06:16 Raising the Bar for Recruitment

07:42 Personal Reflections and Future Plans

09:54 Introducing Bruce's Story

11:42 Bruce's Early Life and Family Struggles

17:07 Abuse and Attempted Arson

21:18 Custody Battles and Family Dynamics

31:58 Reconnecting with Siblings

34:22 The Struggles of a Distrusted Child

37:41 Reintegrating Siblings and Teenage Rebellion

39:15 Mental Health Challenges and Emancipation

43:40 Finding Stability and a New Path

45:52 Joining the Volunteer Fire Department

51:46 First Firefighting Experience

55:28 Pursuing a Career in Firefighting

59:27 Concluding Reflections

Join Stack and Dr Brooke Bartlett on The Things We All Carry Episode 130 as they uncover the extensive impact of trauma on mental health. Dr. Bartlett, a clinical psychologist expert in trauma, delves into the brain's intricacies, focusing on the amygdala, prefrontal cortex, and hippocampus. Learn about post-traumatic stress injury (PTSI), the curative potential of neuroplasticity, and evidence-based treatments. Discussions cover the importance of systematic exposure therapy, addressing mental health thoroughly, and why talk therapy might not be enough for severe cases. This episode also underscores proactive interventions in fire and police departments, and the cumulative nature of trauma. Gain invaluable knowledge and practical advice for navigating the challenges of mental wellness.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:22 Meet the First Responders

00:51 Defining Mental Wealth

02:38 Protecting Mental Wealth

04:47 Host's Personal Reflections

10:40 Episode Overview and Guest Introduction

13:39 Dr. Brooke Bartlett's Background

25:21 Understanding the Brain

32:55 Impact of Trauma on the Brain

37:25 Combat Veteran's PTSD Triggered by Barbecue

38:34 Symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Injury

39:35 Brain Scans and PTSD

44:32 Memory Gaps and Trauma

53:15 Neuroplasticity: The Brain's Superpower

01:05:17 Evidence-Based Trauma Therapy

01:15:32 Understanding Internal and External Avoidance

01:15:52 Imaginal Exposures: Facing Trauma Head-On

01:16:51 Recalibrating the Amygdala

01:19:09 The Role of Repetition in Trauma Therapy

01:23:28 Addressing Complex PTSD and Memory Gaps

01:27:44 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and the Prefrontal Cortex

01:47:02 The Importance of Proactive Mental Health Strategies

01:49:54 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

In this episode of 'The Things We All Carry,' retired firefighter Kenny Mitchell Jr. opens up about his journey through trauma, both on and off the job. He discusses the founding of 'Operation Yellow Tape,' an organization dedicated to supporting the mental health of first responders. Listeners are also invited to join Kenny's upcoming free event by registering on his website. The conversation touches on Kenny's career highlights, personal experiences, and offers invaluable insights into balancing work and life while recovering from trauma. Featuring heartfelt reflections, candid advice, and a book recommendation—'Touching the Dragon' by Jimmy Hatch—this episode is a profound exploration of healing and finding purpose.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:25 Personal Reflections and Struggles

02:10 Finding Purpose

05:49 Introduction to Episode 129

05:59 Guest Introduction: Kenny Mitchell Jr.

06:16 Operation Yellow Tape

07:07 The Importance of Open Conversations

10:46 Kenny's Background and Career

14:42 Growing Up and Family Life

21:59 Transition to Firefighting

22:34 Impact of 9/11 and Career Beginnings

24:50 Early Career Challenges

31:45 Mental Health Struggles

37:59 The Turning Point

39:42 A Turning Point: Speaking Up About Mental Health

43:23 The Birth of Operation Yellow Tape

45:06 Inside and Outside the Yellow Tape

47:14 The Importance of Sleep and Communication

57:56 Introducing the HELP Acronym

01:00:46 Expanding the Mission: Speaking to Diverse Audiences

01:06:06 Upcoming Conference and Final Thoughts