First Responder Wellness Podcast
A podcast for first responders and the people who lead them. This show features conversations about mental health and wellness with leaders from the first responder community.
First Responder Wellness Podcast with Conrad Weaver
The First Responder Wellness Podcast with Conrad Weaver is where mental health, resilience, and real solutions meet for police, fire, EMS, dispatch, and the families who support them.
No fluff. No corporate wellness speak. Just honest conversations with first responders, mental health professionals, and leaders who've lived it — covering burnout, PTSD, suicide awareness, peer support, shift work, marriage, and what it actually takes to have a long, healthy career in this profession. Every episode is designed to leave you with something you can actually use.
If you serve, lead people who serve, or love someone who does — this podcast was made for you.
Listen on:
Episodes
Wednesday Sep 24, 2025
Wednesday Sep 24, 2025
Episode 100 – Part 1: Courage and Recovery with Desireé Palmer
In this milestone 100th episode of the First Responder Wellness Podcast, host Conrad Weaver reconnects with retired police officer Desireé Palmer, whose powerful story was featured in the award-winning documentary PTSD9-1-1.
In the film, Desireé was shown in the middle of her struggle with PTSD, injuries, and isolation. In this conversation, she shares how far she has come since then—moving from darkness and isolation to rediscovering purpose, mentoring young people, reconnecting with community, and finding healing through therapy and service. Desiree speaks with honesty about forgiveness, overcoming guilt, the importance of connection, and how serving others has restored her joy.
This episode is part one of a special series celebrating the people behind PTSD9-1-1. Part two features firefighter Matthew Fiorenza, also from the film, and part three will include family members of dispatcher Nicole Ford.
And for listeners, Conrad shares the biggest discount ever offered: 30% off the PTSD9-1-1. film and educational toolkit for your agency. Listen to the end of the show for details.
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FIRST RESPONDER WELLNESS PODCAST
Order the PTSD911 Film and Educational Toolkit here: https://ptsd911movie.com/toolkit/Web site: https://ptsd911movie.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ptsd911movie/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ptsd911movie/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClQ8jxjxYqHgFQixBK4Bl0Q
Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/first-responder-wellness-podcast/id1535675703
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2wW72dLZOKkO1QYUPzL2ih
Purchase the PTSD911 film for your public safety agency or organization:https://ptsd911movie.com/toolkit/
The First Responder Wellness Podcast is a production of ConjoStudios, LLC
Copyright ©2025 ConjoStudios, LLC - All rights Reserved.
Friday Sep 19, 2025
Friday Sep 19, 2025
🎙️ Friday Five with Conrad Weaver
A Short Podcast from the First Responder Wellness PodcastTM
Welcome to Friday Five with Conrad Weaver — a quick, five-minute boost to wrap up your week with inspiration, insight, and ideas. Each Friday, I’ll share five things that are shaping my world:
Projects I’m working on in film, podcasting, and first responder wellness
Key lessons from books I’m reading
Highlights from events and conferences I’ve attended
Personal practices that keep me healthy and grounded
And wisdom from leaders, thinkers, and first responders who are making an impact
Think of this as a behind-the-scenes look into my journey—delivered in bite-sized episodes that fit right into your Friday routine.
Whether you’re a first responder, a leader, or just someone who wants to live well and lead well, Friday Five is here to give you encouragement, practical takeaways, and a reminder that wellness isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Episodes drop every Friday. Tune in, take five, and start your weekend with clarity and purpose.
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FIRST RESPONDER WELLNESS PODCAST
Order the PTSD911 Film and Educational Toolkit here: https://ptsd911movie.com/toolkit/Web site: https://ptsd911movie.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ptsd911movie/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ptsd911movie/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClQ8jxjxYqHgFQixBK4Bl0Q
Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/first-responder-wellness-podcast/id1535675703
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2wW72dLZOKkO1QYUPzL2ih
Purchase the PTSD911 film for your public safety agency or organization:https://ptsd911movie.com/toolkit/
The First Responder Wellness Podcast is a production of ConjoStudios, LLC
Copyright ©2025 ConjoStudios, LLC - All rights Reserved.
Wednesday Sep 17, 2025
Wednesday Sep 17, 2025
Episode Title: 99 - Resilience isn’t a Personality Trait - With Dr. Stephanie Conn
Guest: Dr. Stephanie Conn, PhD, ABPP – Psychologist, Author, Former Officer
Host: Conrad Weaver
Episode Overview:In this episode, Conrad speaks with Dr. Stephanie Conn, a former police officer and dispatcher turned board-certified psychologist. Dr. Conn shares her incredible journey into psychology after two traumatic line-of-duty deaths impacted her department. She now dedicates her work to helping first responders navigate trauma, strengthen resilience, and overcome stigma around mental health.
Topics Discussed:
How trauma impacts the brain—and how it can be healed
Techniques like EMDR and nervous system regulation
Why peer support must be well-trained to be effective
The importance of sleep hygiene and science-based wellness practices
Her books: Strengthening Your Mental Armor and her upcoming peer support manual
Resources Mentioned:
Dr. Stephanie Conn’s Website: https://firstresponderpsychology.com
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FIRST RESPONDER WELLNESS PODCAST
Order the PTSD911 Film and Educational Toolkit here: https://ptsd911movie.com/toolkit/Web site: https://ptsd911movie.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ptsd911movie/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ptsd911movie/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClQ8jxjxYqHgFQixBK4Bl0Q
Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/first-responder-wellness-podcast/id1535675703
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2wW72dLZOKkO1QYUPzL2ih
Purchase the PTSD911 film for your public safety agency or organization:https://ptsd911movie.com/toolkit/
The First Responder Wellness Podcast is a production of ConjoStudios, LLC
Copyright ©2025 ConjoStudios, LLC - All rights Reserved.
Wednesday Sep 10, 2025
Wednesday Sep 10, 2025
Episode Title: The God Shot: How Dr. Eugene Lipov is Transforming PTSD Treatment
Episode Summary:In this episode, Conrad Weaver sits down with Dr. Eugene Lipov, an anesthesiologist, pain specialist, and internationally recognized pioneer in the treatment of post-traumatic stress injury (PTSI). Dr. Lipov explains how a simple five-minute procedure called the Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB)—sometimes referred to as “The God Shot”—has the potential to reset the body’s fight-or-flight response and provide rapid relief from symptoms of trauma.
Dr. Lipov shares remarkable stories, including that of firefighter Matty Fiorenza and his wife, who both experienced profound life changes following the procedure. He also describes the science behind SGB, its potential to reduce stigma by reframing PTSD as PTSI (an injury rather than a disorder), and his personal journey into this groundbreaking work.
Listeners will gain insight into:
What the Stellate Ganglion Block is and how it works
Why renaming PTSD to PTSI could save lives
Real-life transformations from first responders and veterans
The importance of addressing sleep, stigma, and suicide prevention
Dr. Lipov’s advocacy for broader access to this treatment
This episode is filled with hope, science, and practical steps toward healing for first responders, veterans, and anyone impacted by trauma.
Links Mentioned:
Stella Center: stellamentalhealth.com
Dr. Lipov’s work: dreugenelipov.com
The God Shot Book: https://thegodshotbook.com/
PTSI Survey: https://itsptsi.com/
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Take the quiz to find your perfect trainer and get 14 days of free training here: https://go.trainwell.net/FirstResponderWellness
FIRST RESPONDER WELLNESS PODCAST
Order the PTSD911 Film and Educational Toolkit here: https://ptsd911movie.com/toolkit/Web site: https://ptsd911movie.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ptsd911movie/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ptsd911movie/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClQ8jxjxYqHgFQixBK4Bl0Q
Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/first-responder-wellness-podcast/id1535675703
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2wW72dLZOKkO1QYUPzL2ih
Purchase the PTSD911 film for your public safety agency or organization:https://ptsd911movie.com/toolkit/
The First Responder Wellness Podcast is a production of ConjoStudios, LLC
Copyright ©2025 ConjoStudios, LLC - All rights Reserved.
Wednesday Sep 03, 2025
Wednesday Sep 03, 2025
In this episode of the First Responder Wellness Podcast, host Conrad Weaver welcomes human performance coach Rob Wilson, whose upbringing in a first-responder family shaped his dedication to supporting law enforcement, firefighters, and EMS through wellness. They explore how first responders constantly operate on high-alert biologically, often without healthy recovery systems—leading to burnout, early illness, and mental fatigue.
Rob discusses his ‘Check Engine Light’ framework—designed to help first responders self-monitor stress and mental/physical health in actionable, sustainable ways. The conversation delves into key building blocks of wellness—resilience through jiu-jitsu, breathwork, sleep awareness, and everyday movement rituals like sun salutations—that help maintain focus, longevity, and mental sharpness amid job-related stress.
Key Takeaways:
Allostatic load and the armored mentality: staying alert comes at great personal cost.
Developing a self-dashboard: Simple practices and audits for mind, body, and chemistry.
Recovery-informed routines: Breathwork, jujitsu, movement practices, and sleep strategies that work within real first-responder schedules.
Your job is high-stakes; your self-care should be just as strategic.
Connect with Rob:
Book: Check Engine Light: Tuning Mind and Body for Performance & Longevity (available on Amazon)
Newsletter/Substack: Check Engine Light (checkenginelight.substack.com)
Instagram: @thecheckenginelight
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FIRST RESPONDER WELLNESS PODCAST
Order the PTSD911 Film and Educational Toolkit here: https://ptsd911movie.com/toolkit/Web site: https://ptsd911movie.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ptsd911movie/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ptsd911movie/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClQ8jxjxYqHgFQixBK4Bl0Q
Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/first-responder-wellness-podcast/id1535675703
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2wW72dLZOKkO1QYUPzL2ih
Purchase the PTSD911 film for your public safety agency or organization:https://ptsd911movie.com/toolkit/
The First Responder Wellness Podcast is a production of ConjoStudios, LLC
Copyright ©2025 ConjoStudios, LLC - All rights Reserved.
Wednesday Aug 27, 2025
Wednesday Aug 27, 2025
In this episode of the First Responder Wellness Podcast, Conrad Weaver has a conversation with Dr. Arash Javanbakht, a leading psychiatrist and trauma researcher. Dr. Javanbakht explains the neurological and emotional roots of trauma and PTSD, particularly among first responders, and shares how cutting-edge augmented reality technology is offering real hope for healing. From redefining fear to walking alongside patients through digital recreations of triggering scenarios, Dr. Javanbakht’s work is revolutionizing trauma care.
Listeners will walk away with a better understanding of what trauma truly is, why it impacts people differently, and why recovery is not only possible—but probable.
Learn more about Dr. Javanbakht's work: https://ghrc.wayne.edu/faculty/arash-javanbhakt
Get his book: https://www.amazon.com/Afraid-Understanding-Purpose-Harnessing-Anxiety/dp/1538170388
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Take the quiz to find your perfect trainer and get 14 days of free training here: https://go.trainwell.net/FirstResponderWellness
FIRST RESPONDER WELLNESS PODCAST
Order the PTSD911 Film and Educational Toolkit here: https://ptsd911movie.com/toolkit/Web site: https://ptsd911movie.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ptsd911movie/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ptsd911movie/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClQ8jxjxYqHgFQixBK4Bl0Q
Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/first-responder-wellness-podcast/id1535675703
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2wW72dLZOKkO1QYUPzL2ih
Purchase the PTSD911 film for your public safety agency or organization:https://ptsd911movie.com/toolkit/
The First Responder Wellness Podcast is a production of ConjoStudios, LLC
Copyright ©2025 ConjoStudios, LLC - All rights Reserved.
Wednesday Aug 20, 2025
Wednesday Aug 20, 2025
In this episode, host Conrad Weaver has a conversation with Joe King, a 28-year veteran of the Dallas Police Department and one of the driving forces behind their Officer Wellness & Longevity Unit (OWL). Joe opens up about the trauma he experienced during the 2016 Dallas ambush that killed five officers, and how that tragedy became the turning point for his personal journey—and a catalyst for systemic change.
Joe shares the inside story of how Dallas PD shifted from a reactive, check-the-box approach to mental health to a proactive, peer-led model that’s changing lives and careers. From reshaping the stigma around seeking help to launching a bold new alcohol policy and leading a widely respected podcast (ATO Bridging the Divide), Joe speaks candidly about what it really takes to protect the people who protect others.
If you’re in leadership, on the front lines, or part of a department looking to do better—this episode will challenge and inspire you.
Check out the news story about the Dallas Officer Wellness & Longevity Unit (OWL)
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Take the quiz to find your perfect trainer and get 14 days of free training here: https://go.trainwell.net/FirstResponderWellness
FIRST RESPONDER WELLNESS PODCAST
Order the PTSD911 Film and Educational Toolkit here: https://ptsd911movie.com/toolkit/Web site: https://ptsd911movie.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ptsd911movie/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ptsd911movie/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClQ8jxjxYqHgFQixBK4Bl0Q
Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/first-responder-wellness-podcast/id1535675703
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2wW72dLZOKkO1QYUPzL2ih
Purchase the PTSD911 film for your public safety agency or organization:https://ptsd911movie.com/toolkit/
The First Responder Wellness Podcast is a production of ConjoStudios, LLC
Copyright ©2025 ConjoStudios, LLC - All rights Reserved.
Wednesday Aug 13, 2025
Wednesday Aug 13, 2025
Episode Title: I'm Going to Sit With YouGuest: Barb Bigalke, Founder of the Center for Suicide Awareness
Episode Summary:In this deeply impactful conversation, Conrad Weaver speaks with Barb Bigalke, the founder of the Center for Suicide Awareness, about breaking the stigma around suicide and supporting those who are grieving. Barb shares her journey from working at the Wisconsin Department of Justice to creating a safe space for people impacted by suicide. She explains why language matters, how stigma prevents compassion, and the importance of connection in preventing suicide.
Listeners will learn practical, compassionate ways to support someone who has lost a loved one to suicide, why asking about suicidal thoughts can be a life-saving act, and how small gestures—like sending a simple text—can make a profound difference. Barb also introduces the HOPELINE, a 24/7 emotional support text line, and shares how first responders and community members alike can get involved.
Key Takeaways:
Why saying “died by suicide” is more compassionate and reduces stigma.
How societal discomfort creates isolation for grieving families.
The epidemic of suicide as a public health issue—and why it demands urgent attention.
How connection, belonging, and purpose protect against suicide.
Practical tips for reaching out to someone in crisis or mourning.
The role of technology in both disconnecting and reconnecting us.
Resources Mentioned:
HOPELINE — Text “HOPELINE” to 741-741 for free, 24/7 emotional support.
Learn more or volunteer: Center for Suicide Awareness Website
https://www.centerforsuicideawareness.org
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Take the quiz to find your perfect trainer and get 14 days of free training here: https://go.trainwell.net/FirstResponderWellness
FIRST RESPONDER WELLNESS PODCAST
Order the PTSD911 Film and Educational Toolkit here: https://ptsd911movie.com/toolkit/Web site: https://ptsd911movie.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ptsd911movie/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ptsd911movie/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClQ8jxjxYqHgFQixBK4Bl0Q
Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/first-responder-wellness-podcast/id1535675703
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2wW72dLZOKkO1QYUPzL2ih
Purchase the PTSD911 film for your public safety agency or organization:https://ptsd911movie.com/toolkit/
The First Responder Wellness Podcast is a production of ConjoStudios, LLC
Copyright ©2025 ConjoStudios, LLC - All rights Reserved.
Wednesday Aug 06, 2025
Wednesday Aug 06, 2025
93 - Going Within to Heal with April Chavez
In this episode of the First Responder Wellness Podcast, host Conrad Weaver has a conversation with April Chavez, a former deputy sheriff turned entrepreneur, educator, and wellness advocate. April shares her remarkable journey from serving in the remote mountains of Colorado with limited backup to becoming a leader in the world of personal growth and holistic wellness.
Their conversation explores:
The mental and emotional toll of working in law enforcement
How self-awareness and consistent training help manage high-stress environments
The challenges of transitioning from officer mode to personal life
The value of quiet, introspection, and meditation
The impact of supportive partners and communities
Practical steps for building resilience and healthy habits
This episode offers relatable, real-world advice for first responders and anyone seeking a grounded path to personal growth and emotional clarity.
Key Takeaways:
You don’t rise to the level of your courage — you fall to the level of your training
Inner work starts with creating time for silence and reflection
Emotional growth comes from observing how we respond — not just how we perform
Writing, journaling, and mental rehearsal are tools for daily alignment
Even small, consistent changes lead to lasting transformation
Resources Mentioned:
https://drivenlivin.com
The Drive Collective – April’s private wellness community
Insight Timer App – Guided meditations by April Chavez
Atomic Habits by James Clear
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Take the quiz to find your perfect trainer and get 14 days of free training here: https://go.trainwell.net/FirstResponderWellness
FIRST RESPONDER WELLNESS PODCAST
Order the PTSD911 Film and Educational Toolkit here: https://ptsd911movie.com/toolkit/Web site: https://ptsd911movie.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ptsd911movie/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ptsd911movie/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClQ8jxjxYqHgFQixBK4Bl0Q
Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/first-responder-wellness-podcast/id1535675703
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2wW72dLZOKkO1QYUPzL2ih
Purchase the PTSD911 film for your public safety agency or organization:https://ptsd911movie.com/toolkit/
The First Responder Wellness Podcast is a production of ConjoStudios, LLC
Copyright ©2025 ConjoStudios, LLC - All rights Reserved.
Wednesday Jul 30, 2025
Wednesday Jul 30, 2025
In this episode, Conrad Weaver talks with Neil Schoepp, a former New York City police officer and firefighter, to discuss how first responders—and anyone—can overcome hesitation and overthinking to live more intentionally and purposefully. Neil shares real-world stories from his time in uniform, the deadly consequences of hesitation, and how he translated first responder training into tools for civilian life.
This conversation dives into:
Why hesitation is more dangerous than we think
The AIR Method (Awareness, Interruption, Redirection) to reprogram your mindset
How visualization—used by first responders daily—can transform your personal decision-making
“Point and call” (Shisa Kanko) and other habits that improve present-moment awareness
Why routines matter: Are you building your future or maintaining your past?
Tools to stop automatic negative thoughts and rewrite the story you tell yourself
How collaboration, identity, and intentional choices lead to lasting transformation
Whether you're in the firehouse or the boardroom, Neil’s mindset tools can help you act with clarity, crush doubt, and live with confidence.
CONNECT WITH NEILNeilSchoepp.comTo learn more about 6 weeks of group coaching https://go.neilschoepp.com/results-over-excuses-coachingTo Download the Free Mental Reboot Manual https://go.neilschoepp.com/mental-reboot-manualEmail Neil@NeilSchoepp.com
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Take the quiz to find your perfect trainer and get 14 days of free training here: https://go.trainwell.net/FirstResponderWellness
FIRST RESPONDER WELLNESS PODCAST
Order the PTSD911 Film and Educational Toolkit here: https://ptsd911movie.com/toolkit/Web site: https://ptsd911movie.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ptsd911movie/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ptsd911movie/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClQ8jxjxYqHgFQixBK4Bl0Q
Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/first-responder-wellness-podcast/id1535675703
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2wW72dLZOKkO1QYUPzL2ih
Purchase the PTSD911 film for your public safety agency or organization:https://ptsd911movie.com/toolkit/
The First Responder Wellness Podcast is a production of ConjoStudios, LLC
Copyright ©2025 ConjoStudios, LLC - All rights Reserved.