First Responder Wellness Podcast

84 - Physical Health is Mental Health, P. 2 with Samantha Sonnett

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EPISODE SYNOPSISRetired NYPD officer Samantha Sonnett opens up about her personal journey following her diagnosis with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. She shares how her chronic illness prompted a major lifestyle overhaul, focusing on cellular health, stress management, hydration, gut health, and nutrition. With vulnerability and clarity, Samantha discusses how long-term trauma, diet, and occupational exposures shaped her physical decline—and what she's done to take control of her health. This episode is a wake-up call for anyone in high-stress professions, especially first responders, to begin paying attention to their body's warning signs. She advocates for first responders to educate themselves, prioritize sleep, and be mindful of occupational hazards. Samantha has started a Facebook group for chronically ill law enforcement officers to provide support and share experiences.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
The Connection Between Chronic Stress and Disease
How 20 years in law enforcement affected Samantha’s nervous system
The physiological toll of living in constant "fight or flight"
Nutritional Wake-Up Call
The impact of processed foods, seed oils, and nutrient-deficient diets
Why eating seasonally and organically matters more than you think
Cellular and Gut Health
How gut health impacts mental health (serotonin and dopamine production)
The role of inflammation and its link to chronic disease
Functional testing: Understanding nutrient deficiencies at the cellular level
The Power of Hydration
Why filtered water can actually dehydrate you
What type of water provides natural hydration (electrolyte-rich spring water)
Practical Wellness Advice for First Responders
How to build healthy habits even on chaotic schedules
Importance of quality sleep and mindful rest
Meal prepping and cooking with intention
Peer Support & Community
Samantha’s new Facebook support group for first responders with chronic illness
Why community support is critical when battling invisible illnesses
Resources Mentioned
Functional Health Testing
Work with a functional health doctor like Noah Seagal
Intracellular testing to detect vitamin and mineral deficiencies
Gut Health Tools
Viome (gut microbiome testing app): https://www.viome.com
Recommended Water Brands
Mountain Valley Spring Water (delivers in glass)
Proud Source, Fiji, Aqua Panna
Books Mentioned
A book on hydration explaining why filtered water may be less effective (not named, but implied by Dr. Zach Bush’s or Dr. Dana Cohen’s work)
JOIN SAMANTHA'S FACEBOOK GROUP HERE:https://www.facebook.com/groups/1401484281054932/
 
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FIRST RESPONDER WELLNESS PODCAST
 
Register for the LIVE Events here: https://mailchi.mp/ptsd911movie/first-responder-wellness-podcast-liveWeb 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
 

83 - Physical Health is Mental Health with Samantha Sonnett

🔹 Episode Overview
In the first installment of this two-part series, host Conrad Weaver welcomes back Samantha Sonnett, a retired NYPD officer, for an unfiltered and deeply moving conversation about the realities of law enforcement and its long-term impact on wellness.
Samantha reflects on her 20+ year career with the NYPD, from patrolling the streets to training first responders for high-risk emergencies. She offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it’s really like to manage impossible caseloads, deal with performance quotas, and endure the physical and emotional toll of the job.
The episode then takes a powerful turn into Samantha’s post-retirement focus on health. She reveals disturbing health trends among first responders—including significantly reduced life expectancy—and shares why nutrition, cellular health, and holistic wellness should be top priorities for everyone wearing the badge.
🔹 Key Topics Discussed
👮‍♀️ Samantha’s Law Enforcement Career
Retired in July after over two decades with the NYPD.
Worked in patrol and domestic violence investigations, managing up to 4,000 cases in a single year.
Later transitioned to the COBRA unit, where she trained first responders in chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear preparedness.
💔 The Hidden Costs of the Job
Intense burnout, especially during her early years on patrol.
Lack of backup in her domestic violence unit led to high stress and no time off.
Quota-driven policing undermined community trust and forced officers to compromise judgment.
🤝 Brotherhood vs. Bureaucracy
Strong bonds with her early squad provided essential support and camaraderie.
Later years in a more “corporate” setting lacked those human connections.
Acknowledges both the value and the potential toxicity of “brotherhood culture.”
🧠 Mental Health & Institutional Shortcomings
While mental health awareness is improving, systemic change is still lacking.
Suicide rates and burnout continue to rise.
Officers are overworked, with some working excessive overtime just to earn a livable wage.
❤️ Physical Health Crisis in First Responders
Jaw-dropping stat: First responders' average lifespan is 20 years shorter than the national average.
First responders lead in heart disease, metabolic disorders, obesity, and cancer.
Many in retirement are sick or dying young—sometimes within a few years of leaving the force.
🧪 Nutrition, Awareness, and Cellular Health
Samantha emphasizes the link between nutrition and cellular function—a connection most first responders overlook.
She dispels myths about protein shakes, calorie counting, and gym routines, explaining that these do not equate to real health.
Lack of essential micronutrients like magnesium, potassium, and vitamin D contributes to chronic illness.
💊 The Broken Wellness Ecosystem
Critiques both Big Pharma and the massive wellness industry for spreading misinformation and offering band-aid solutions.
Over 80% of Americans are on at least one prescription, and over 70% are overweight.
Functional nutrition—rooted in science—is what changed Samantha’s perspective after her own health issues.
 
 
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FIRST RESPONDER WELLNESS PODCAST
 
Register for the LIVE Events here: https://mailchi.mp/ptsd911movie/first-responder-wellness-podcast-liveWeb 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
 
 

82 - Finding Purpose after the Trauma with Kris O'Neill

Purchase the PTSD911 film for your public safety agency or organization here:https://ptsd911movie.com/toolkit/
QUESTIONS: Please call: 970-306-7799 or send an email to Gary Miller at garymiller@ptsd911movie.com
 
82 - Finding Purpose after the Trauma with Kris O'Neill
📝 Show Notes
Guest: Kris O’NeillHost: Conrad WeaverPodcast: First Responder Wellness Podcast
🔍 Episode Overview:
In this episode, retired officer Kris O'Neill opens up about the day that forever changed his life: January 28, 2017. Kris shares the harrowing experience of being forced to make a life-or-death decision while on duty in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. He walks us through the trauma, the aftermath, the lack of structured support, and how the culture within law enforcement made it harder to seek help.
From his roots in a law enforcement family to battling PTSD after a second critical incident, Kris talks candidly about mental health challenges and the long road to recovery. Today, he’s not only found purpose in healing but also supports others as a peer counselor with Hakes Wellness Solutions.
🔑 Key Topics Discussed:
Kris’s critical incident and its lasting impact
The silence and stigma in law enforcement culture
Catholic guilt and moral injury after a deadly use of force
The slow, difficult journey through PTSD
The role of peer support and how it’s changing law enforcement wellness
Why culturally competent therapy is essential for first responders
Advice for departments on building trust and wellness programs
What Kris wishes he had in place during his career
The turning point in his recovery and finding purpose through sharing his story
🗣️ Notable Quotes:
“It added some purpose to the pain I’ve gone through.”“The brain is our most important tool, and it needs maintenance too.”“Peer support used to be going out for a beer… now it's structured, trained, and protected.”“I didn’t want to burden my wife, but I didn’t know who else to talk to.”
🧭 Resources & Contact:
Hakes Wellness Solutions: hakeswellnesssolutions.com
Contact Kris: Kris@HakesWellnessSolutions.com
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FIRST RESPONDER WELLNESS PODCAST
 
Register for the LIVE Events here: https://mailchi.mp/ptsd911movie/first-responder-wellness-podcast-liveWeb 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

81 - Keep the Truth Tellers Around You with Dr. Jennifer Prohaska

Keep the Truth Tellers Around You with Dr. Jennifer Prohaska
This isn’t your typical feel-good chat about mental health. In this brutally honest and refreshingly grounded episode, Dr. Jennifer Prohaska cuts through the fluff with a clear message: we’re focusing on the wrong end of the problem when it comes to wellness in public safety.Dr. Jen explains why organizational dysfunction, not trauma alone, is what’s pushing people out the door—and why even the best therapy can’t fix a toxic culture. If you’re a tired patrol cop at 2 a.m. with earbuds in or a fire chief trying to get your people to stay, this one’s for you.
 
ABOUT DR. JENNIFER PROHASKA
Dr. Jennifer Prohaska is the founder of Tactical Longevity and a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in neuro-rehabilitation psychology, trauma, and critical incident response. She earned her Ph.D. from the University of Kansas in 2013 and completed her residency at the University of Kansas Medical Center, where she focused on treating traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries with life-altering consequences. Dr. Prohaska’s expertise extends to use-of-force encounters, and she holds a Force Science Certification, making her one of the few psychologists with advanced knowledge in this area.‍As the driving force behind Tactical Longevity, Dr. Prohaska is dedicated to preparing agencies in high-pressure industries for critical incidents. Her scientifically backed methods are designed to help both individuals and departments excel, no matter their limitations. Since establishing her practice, she has expanded her reach to support over 54 entities across three states, providing clear and effective programs that develop top performers ready for high-risk, high-stakes situations.‍Dr. Prohaska is also a nationally sought-after speaker, known for her work with agencies on topics such as PTSD, chronic stress, and leadership mental health. Her deep experience in both clinical settings and public safety has made her a trusted resource for agencies looking to enhance their psychological readiness and operational effectiveness.
 
Connect with Dr. JenWEBSITE: www.tacticallongevity.com

LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-prohaska-phd-tacticallongevity/
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FIRST RESPONDER WELLNESS PODCAST
 
Register for the LIVE Events here: https://mailchi.mp/ptsd911movie/first-responder-wellness-podcast-liveWeb 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.
 
 

80 - How to Keep Going, when you Really Want to Quit with Mark Pattison

In this episode of the First Responder Wellness podcast, host Conrad Weaver sits down with Mark Pattison, a former NFL wide receiver turned extreme mountaineer and Sports Illustrated executive. While Mark may not be a first responder in the traditional sense, his life journey is filled with parallels — perseverance, grit, mental toughness, and the daily discipline required to survive and thrive under intense pressure.Mark shares his transformative journey from professional football to climbing the Seven Summits, including his harrowing summit of Mount Everest — where he survived the death zone while snow-blind and out of oxygen. Through his story, listeners will hear about the mental and physical preparation required to do “hard things,” and how those same strategies apply to the challenges faced by first responders.Whether you're facing burnout, emotional trauma, or seeking clarity in life’s chaos, Mark’s experiences offer tactical wisdom and inspiration. You’ll walk away with insights on how to build daily habits, master discipline, and stay focused in the most extreme moments.
🧗‍♂️ Key Topics Covered
Why Do Hard Things?
 Mark explains his relentless pursuit of challenge — from the NFL to scaling Everest — and the deep personal growth that comes from stepping into difficulty.
Discipline & The Process 
From early football lessons under Coach Don James to high-altitude training in Idaho, Mark shares how discipline and embracing the process are keys to long-term success.
Mental Grit in the Death Zone
 Hear Mark's gripping account of climbing Everest — including going snow blind, running out of oxygen, and surviving alone at 26,500 feet.
Finding Purpose Through Pain
 Mark reveals how personal adversity, including a divorce, became the spark that led him to redefine his life goals and chase the Seven Summits.
From Athlete to Executive
 Discover how lessons from the field and the mountain transferred to his leadership role at Sports Illustrated, where he helped revolutionize their digital strategy.
Lessons for First Responders
 Mark draws striking parallels between high-performance athletics, mountaineering, and the mental fortitude required of first responders, sharing tools for staying mentally resilient.
📚 Mark’s Book: “Finding Your Summit”
Mark teases his upcoming book, which chronicles his journey through professional sports, personal upheaval, and climbing the world’s most dangerous peaks. It’s an honest, inspiring look at what it means to overcome, adapt, and rise.
🔗 Connect with Mark Pattison
🌐 Website: https://www.markpattisonnfl.com📱 Instagram: @markpattisonnfl📘 Book: Coming Soon – “Finding Your Summit”Link to the ESPN Documentary: https://www.nfl.com/videos/searching-for-the-summit-with-mark-pattison-nfl-360
👮‍♀️ Message to First RespondersMark’s message is clear: Whether you’re standing on Everest or walking into a traumatic scene, mental preparation and consistency are everything. Even when you feel stuck, action — any action — can be the first step out of the darkness. Build small daily wins, focus on the process, and never give up on becoming the best version of yourself.
💬 Final ThoughtsThis episode is a must-listen for anyone facing adversity or looking for ways to mentally and physically push past limits. Mark’s story of resilience is a shining example of how intentional effort, habit, and courage can transform lives — on and off the mountain.Stay strong. Do the hard things. And love the process.
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FIRST RESPONDER WELLNESS PODCAST
 
Register for the LIVE Events here: https://mailchi.mp/ptsd911movie/first-responder-wellness-podcast-liveWeb 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.
 
 
 

79 - Living out Your Faith as a First Responder - with Jeremy Wade

Episode Summary
In Episode 79, Conrad Weaver welcomes back Jeremy Wade, former Seattle Police Officer and current founder of Mission First Alliance, a national faith-based organization supporting first responders. This episode features an inspiring and deeply moving conversation about the challenges and victories of living out Christian faith in the demanding world of first responders.
Jeremy shares his personal journey of recommitting to his faith, how it transformed his law enforcement career, and why he felt called to step into full-time ministry. He discusses the foundation and vision of Mission First Alliance, a national network connecting faith-based organizations, chaplains, churches, and first responders to better equip them for Kingdom impact.
The conversation addresses the emotional and spiritual toll of first responder life, how faith provides resilience, and practical ways Christian first responders can find community and strength.
Key Topics Covered
Jeremy Wade's Journey: From Seattle Police to Christian ministry leader.
Faith and Law Enforcement: Why spiritual support is vital for first responders.
Mission First Alliance: Vision, mission, and how it is fostering collaboration nationally and internationally.
Faith Amid Trauma: How trusting God reframes the brokenness first responders encounter.
Challenges in Sharing Faith: Cultural barriers within departments and broader society.
Peer Support and Wellness: The crucial link between mental health and spiritual well-being.
Practical Encouragement: Staying rooted in faith through community and connection.
Memorable Quotes
“Without Christ, we're simply putting a band-aid on issues that will never go away.” — Jeremy Wade
“Your job is not your identity. Your mission first is Christ.” — Jeremy Wade
“Isolation is the enemy’s greatest tool; connection is God’s design for support.” — Conrad Weaver
Resources Mentioned
Mission First Alliance Website: www.missionfirstalliance.com
PTSD911 Documentary: PTSD911 Movie Toolkit
Fellowship of Christian Peace Officers, Navigators First Responder Ministry, Billy Graham Law Enforcement Ministry
National Networking Conference: September 18-20, 2025, Chattanooga, TN — Free to attend!
Connect with Jeremy Wade
Website: Mission First Alliance
Free Membership Available for First Responders, Chaplains, Ministries, and Churches
Monthly Zoom Gatherings: First and Third Mondays
Final Encouragement
Jeremy reminds all first responders:🌟 Stay rooted in Christ, stay in the fight, and know you are not alone. 🌟
If you’re a first responder seeking faith-based community and support, check out Mission First Alliance today!
 
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FIRST RESPONDER WELLNESS PODCAST
 
Register for the LIVE Events here: https://mailchi.mp/ptsd911movie/first-responder-wellness-podcast-liveWeb 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.
 
 

78 - I was a Gray Crayon with Rachael Belcher

🎙️ Episode OverviewIn this deeply personal and inspiring episode of the First Responder Wellness Podcast, host Conrad Weaver sits down with Rachael Belcher, a seasoned paramedic from Baltimore County with over 25 years of experience in emergency services. Rachael opens up about the emotional and psychological toll of the job, recounting her early days as a 911 dispatcher during 9/11, her evolution into field response, and the buildup of trauma that nearly derailed her life.She shares her raw and courageous journey through burnout, the warning signs she ignored, and the pivotal moment she chose healing—checking into a 30-day inpatient mental health facility specifically for first responders. Rachael explains what brought her back from being a "gray crayon" to a "64-color box with a sharpener," and the tools, insights, and boundaries that now sustain her wellness.This episode is a powerful listen for first responders, their families, and anyone in a high-stress profession who needs to hear: "You're not alone—and healing is possible."
🧠 Key Topics Discussed
Rachael's early career as a 911 dispatcher during 9/11
Transitioning from dispatch to field paramedicine
How unprocessed trauma accumulates over a 25-year career
Recognizing emotional numbness, disconnection, and burnout
The power of inpatient therapy and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
Creating boundaries and re-learning emotional intelligence
The importance of self-awareness, connection, and self-care
Why first responders need to unlearn the “suck it up” mindset
The cultural shift needed within departments and leadership
Preventive tools to avoid reaching a crisis point
Building identity and purpose outside of the job
📚 Resources & Tools Mentioned
🛠️ Therapeutic Modalities & ToolsEMDR Therapy – Eye Movement Desensitization and ReprocessingBreathwork (Box breathing, grounding exercises)Self-care essentials – Nutrition, exercise, nature walksBoundary setting & emotional intelligence developmentInpatient mental health programs tailored for first responders
🎧 PodcastsHidden Brain (NPR)How to Be a Better Human (TED Audio Collective)
📖 BooksThe Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der KolkThe Myth of Normal by Gabor Maté
📄 Articles"Grief on the Frontline: Managing Our Hidden Wounds" – by Rachael Belcher, published in JEMS (Journal of Emergency Medical Services)
👉 Read it here
🧪 Health Screenings to ConsiderVitamin & Mineral PanelHormone PanelCardiac Calcium Scoring CT – for early detection of plaque buildup in arteries
🆘 If You're StrugglingIf you feel like a “gray crayon” today:Talk to someone you trust.Call 988 if you’re experiencing suicidal thoughts or crisis.Seek help from your Peer Support Team or a clinician familiar with first responders.You are not alone, and your story matters.
 
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FIRST RESPONDER WELLNESS PODCAST
 
Register for the LIVE Events here: https://mailchi.mp/ptsd911movie/first-responder-wellness-podcast-liveWeb 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.
 
 

77 - Norman Rocked my World with Tim Eggebraaten

77 - Norman Rocked my World with Tim Eggebraaten
 
📄 Episode SummaryIn this compelling episode, Tim Eggebraaten—former police chief, storyteller, and advocate for first responder mental health—joins the show to reflect on his transformative journey through law enforcement. Tim opens up about the deep emotional toll that policing took on his well-being, the critical importance of community connections, and how personal encounters—like one with a homeless man named Norman—forever changed his view of the profession and humanity itself.Tim explores how mindfulness, meditation, music, and storytelling became essential tools in his healing process and leadership evolution. He emphasizes that the badge doesn’t define the person behind it, advocating for empathy, optimism, and emotional transparency—especially during the transition from service into retirement.
Through powerful anecdotes and honest reflections, Tim provides a voice of compassion and wisdom for first responders, leaders, and anyone seeking meaning, resilience, and connection in challenging roles.
 
🧠 Key Takeaways
Tim knew from a young age that he wanted to be in law enforcement.
Policing can take a profound emotional toll, especially without outlets for mental wellness.
Small-town and big-city policing offer drastically different experiences.
Mindfulness and meditation became life-changing practices during his career.
Personal interactions, like his unforgettable encounter with Norman, reshape how we see others.
Community relationships are at the heart of meaningful policing.
Leadership requires reflection, vulnerability, and a broader perspective.
Open, honest discussions about mental health are essential within law enforcement.
Retirement offered a new beginning and a release from emotional burdens.
Music served as a powerful healing tool and bridge between people.
Connect with Tim
https://www.offdutychief.com/
Buy The Book
 
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FIRST RESPONDER WELLNESS PODCAST
 
Register for the LIVE Events here: https://mailchi.mp/ptsd911movie/first-responder-wellness-podcast-liveWeb 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.
 

76 - He's Not an #$$hole, He's Symptomatic - Erin Maccabee & Cinnamon Reiheld

He's not an #$$hole, He's Symptomatic - Erin Maccabee & Cinnamon Reiheld
 
Episode SummaryIn this episode of the First Responder Wellness Podcast, host Conrad Weaver is joined by Erin Maccabee and Cinnamon Reiheld for a powerful conversation about the mental health challenges faced by first responders. They explore how trauma, desensitization, and high ACEs scores impact emotional well-being, and why compassion, vulnerability, and peer support are essential for healing. Erin and Cinnamon share their personal journeys, discuss the cultural stigma around mental health in emergency services, and offer actionable steps first responders can take toward recovery and resilience. Whether you're on the front lines or supporting someone who is, this episode delivers insight, hope, and a path forward.Together, they explore:
The personal journeys that led Erin and Cinnamon into the field of first responder wellness
The often-hidden trauma and emotional toll these professionals face daily
How compassion, peer support, and vulnerability can break through the stigma and silence
The evolution of mental health awareness in emergency services and the importance of grassroots movements
The powerful connection between high ACEs scores (Adverse Childhood Experiences) and career choices in high-stress professions
Listeners will walk away with a deeper understanding of the emotional landscape of first responders, actionable strategies for healing, and the critical role of community support and mental health training in fostering long-term wellness.
🔑 Key Takeaways
Cumulative trauma is a silent struggle for many first responders.
Desensitization often masks internal distress, leading to emotional burnout.
Compassion and empathy are crucial to supporting mental wellness in emergency personnel.
Peer support networks provide essential spaces for healing and connection.
Many first responders don’t recognize their own symptoms until crisis hits.
Cultural norms within agencies often discourage openness about mental health.
Grassroots advocacy is sparking real change in wellness programming.
Training on trauma and mental health must begin at the academy level.
Adrenaline addiction can lead to high-risk behavior and poor decisions.
Safe spaces to share vulnerabilities are essential to fostering trust and recovery.
ACEs scores often correlate with choosing high-stress careers like emergency response.
Understanding one's trauma is the first step toward building emotional resilience.
 
Connect with Erin and Cinnamonwhole-house.comafterthetonesdrop.comcopperwarrior.com
 
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FIRST RESPONDER WELLNESS PODCAST
 
Register for the LIVE Events here: https://mailchi.mp/ptsd911movie/first-responder-wellness-podcast-liveWeb 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.
 

75 - I Needed to be My Own Hero - Ashley Jones

Episode Summary
In this episode of the First Responder Wellness Podcast, Conrad Weaver talks with Ashley Jones — a seasoned police officer and empowerment coach — as she shares her deeply personal journey through law enforcement and mental health challenges faced by first responders. Ashley opens up about the illusion of brotherhood in the field, the critical need for vulnerability training, and the urgent lack of mental health support in police departments.
With a mission to empower others, Ashley highlights the value of self-reflection, coaching, and leadership that prioritizes well-being. Her story is one of resilience, growth, and purpose — aiming to inspire first responders to recognize their worth and become their own advocates.
Key Topics Covered
Ashley's career as a police officer and transition into empowerment coaching
The emotional toll of law enforcement and the lack of authentic support
Why vulnerability and emotional intelligence are vital in the field
The role of personal accountability in mental health and personal growth
Challenges in leadership and organizational culture within policing
The transformative power of coaching for first responders
Ashley’s future goals, including writing a workbook and book to further her mission
Top Takeaways
Vulnerability training is essential in law enforcement for building authentic support systems.
The "brotherhood" concept in policing often lacks depth and true emotional support.
Personal growth starts with self-reflection, accountability, and a willingness to do the work.
Mental health resources are severely lacking for first responders — this needs to change.
Ashley calls for stronger, more empathetic leadership in police departments.
Self-advocacy is crucial; no one will fight for your well-being like you will.
Coaching can provide first responders with tools and clarity to manage stress and trauma.
Ashley is currently working on a workbook and a book tailored to the unique needs of first responders.
Her mission is to empower others to take control of their mental health journey.
Connect with Ashley
Personal Instagram: warrior.with.graceProfessional Instagram: Pearl Grit CoachingWebsite: pearlgritcoaching.comTikTok: warrior.with.grace.2.0Lemon8: warrior.with.grace.2.0
 
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FIRST RESPONDER WELLNESS PODCAST
 
Register for the LIVE Events here: https://mailchi.mp/ptsd911movie/first-responder-wellness-podcast-liveWeb 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
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