The Washdown: Recent Episodes
jeremy greene
Welcome to The Washdown. We are three firefighters who have a passion for mental health. We will be using this podcast to speak with other firefighters, nurse's, law enforcement officer's and military veteran's to highlight the issue's that we face and hopefully show others that they are not alone and help is out there.
Will Atkinson was born in to a Virginia family with a tradition of military service on both sides, to parents who would divorce around the time he was four. In middle school/junior high, Will would move to Wisconsin with his mom and younger fraternal twin brother and sister. After graduating from high school in a town called Manitowoc, Will went on the enlist in the US Army, serving for four years and ten months as a combat medic, which included two deployments to Iraq. Upon his release from active duty, Will affiliated with the Wisconsin National Guard, serving for another three years while attending the University of Wisconsin - Whitewater. Will earned a BS in Biology there, and has also earned a Masters of Public Health from the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health. Will has been a volunteer firefighter since the fall of 2019, and has also volunteered for multiple Veteran Service Organizations and Emergency Medical Services. Will currently works as a Peer Support Specialist at the Madison VA Medical Center.
http://maniacretreats.org/
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
Josh Snyder Bio:Farm kid from Iowa. Served 4 years in USMC as a Motor T Operator. Afghanistan (OEF) in 2011.Starting coaching and obtained my CrossFit certificate in 2013Moved to KC in 2014. Co-owned and operated The Hill KC for 8 years (Formally CrossFit Memorial Hill) Married highschool sweetheart in 2020 and have 2 beautiful little girls (Adeline 3, Ivy 17 months) Founded Bloc Life Inc (501c3 nonprofit organization) in 2018 to serve the veteran, first responder and disabled community. I currently serve as its executive director. Built FITNKC, home of Northtowne CrossFit, and doors opened March 2024. www.bloclife.org
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
Billy spent almost 20 years in the fire service before retiring this year due to PTSD. We talk about what led up to his retirement and the plans he has going forward.National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
Joe comes back on the show to tell us how he has been and how a near fatal motorcycle wreck has changed his life.National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
Justin is the Executive Director of The Battle Within and an Army Combat Veteran.National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
Montee served 6 years in the United States Army in communications setting up temporary cell sites allowing people on the battle ground to communicate.currently work for AT&T as a Program Manager - some of his duties include ensuring that large events like the Superbowl, RNC/DNC conventions, Sports All Star games, etc... have enough wireless/wireline coverage and capacity to accommodate the surge of AT&T customers in one location.Since 2011 he has been a part of the 501c3 AT&T Veterans Employee Resource Group. He recently Jan 1st stepped down as National Chief Operating Officer (Vice President) the group has over 7000 members in 32 different chapters across the country. January 1st along with his business partner William Huehl founded a new not for profit 501c3 company Get To Zer0 (mission statement below) The main purpose of Get To Zer0 is to stop Veteran suicide. Some numbers indicate 22 or more Veterans a day take their own life. The top number doesn't matter we want to Get To Zer0 with that number. www.GetToZer0.com
Mission Statement for Get To Zer0: At Get To Zer0, our mission is to eliminate Veteran suicide and create a world where every Veteran can find hope, healing, and support. We believe that no service member who has selflessly dedicated themselves to safeguarding our nation's freedom should ever feel abandoned, alone, or without options. With unwavering commitment, compassion, and innovative approaches, we are determined to address the underlying causes and provide meaningful solutions to end this tragic crisis.
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
Travis Gribble is a retired law enforcement officer from the Mesa, AZ PD. He has been a guest speaker at several law enforcement conference's with presentations regarding PTSD in law enforcement and also posting video's to his instagram to raise awareness about PTSD in first responders.
@My_.Arena Instagram
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com #neveralonealwaysforward
John Howe is a retired police officer from Missouri. He is also a photographer and is starting Healing Trails Overland, where he will travel all of North America and document his travels. Along the way he is going to tell the stories of other first responders' mental health journeys, as well as veterans. www.howecreativephoto.com www.Healingtrailsoverland.com @HealingTrailsOverland National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
My name is Ronnie Dennison. I’m a husband and a Dad/step Dad to 5 kids, and PaPa to 1.For the past 22 years I’ve been a volunteer firefighter with the Adrian Fire Dept. We are a small city/Rural dept. that averages 400+ calls a year over 270 square miles. I’m Fire 1&2 certified, Hazmat technician level, and hold many other small certifications from MUFRTI. I also help teach an elevator rescue class with O’Byrne Fireground Training.National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
www.atc911.org
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
Brian is a retired firefighter and veteran. He shares his journey of recovery on the podcast. He is writing his autobiography and starting his own podcast. This is one you dont want to miss.
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
DJ is a veteran of the fire service and a small business owner.https://www.franklinfirearmsonline.com/National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
Brian Sims is a person in long term recovery from Substance Misuse and Co-Occurring Disorders acquired while serving his country during the campaigns and operations in support of the Global War on Terrorism as a US Army Infantryman. He is also a suicide attempt (2015) and street-level homelessness survivor.
Mr. Sims has held Director Level positions and Board Seats in multiple Veteran focused non-profits, establishing programs and training for over 30,000 volunteers. He is also a FEMA certified Emergency Management Professional and has deployed at the request of the US Government to work with State and Local governments to rescue citizens and save lives and property over a dozen times, including during the Global COVID Pandemic.
In 2016, he established and implemented a similar Veteran Recovery program for Fellowship RCO in Broward, County, FL, becoming a main contact and consultant for multiple Broward County Law Enforcement agencies for Veteran Crisis Intervention and training.
He is a Certified Recovery Peer Specialist (Veteran) for the Florida Certification Board, a Veteran Supported Recovery Professional Peer for the New York State Certification Board, and a NAADAC Certified Event Interventionist.
IG: _projectrebirth_
Facebook: Project: REBIRTH
website: http://www.projectrebirth.us
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
Neveralonealwaysforward
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
DJ is a veteran of the fire service and a small business owner.
https://www.franklinfirearmsonline.com/
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988 thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
Steve Pope from the First Responder Golf Foundation and Rob Sanderson from Swel stop by and talk about the process of starting a non-profit and some of the challenges they faced and continue to face to keep them going.
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988 thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
Kevin Byrd is a 26 year veteran of the fire service. He shares with us the insight and wisdom from his career and his views on fire dept. culture.
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988 thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988 thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988 thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988 thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988 thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988 thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988 thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
988 national suicide prevention hotline
Neveralonealwaysforward
Kim Colegrove is the author of Mindfulness for Warriors and the founder of Pause FirstAcademy—an organization that provides online and in-person wellness and resilience trainingfor society’s warriors, protectors, guardians, and healers.Kim is an experienced keynote speaker, and in 2022 she was awarded the Mid-America CIT(Critical Incident Team) Teacher of the Year award.Colegrove is the widow of a first responder who died by suicide. She previously taughtmindfulness in corporate settings such as Garmin International, United Way, Department ofVeterans Affairs, and The National Court Reporters Association. After her husband’s death,Kim turned her attention to helping warriors learn how to cope with stress and trauma.She now leads a team of culturally competent instructors who offer resilience training with afocus on holistic wellbeing and work-life balance.
kimcolegrove@pausefirst.com
Website: pausefirst.com,
https://pausefirst.com/
Online Academy: academy.pausefirst.com
Facebook: Pause First Academy https://www.facebook.com/pausefirstacademy
Instagram: @kimcolegrove_author,
https://www.instagram.com/kimcolegrove_author/?hl=en Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimcolegrove/ National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988 thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
Saz Madison, Ph.D. received his degree in Clinical Psychology from Central Michigan University in 2006. He practiced psychotherapy at the Michigan State University Counseling Center, the Central Michigan University Counseling Center, and in private practice from 1999 to 2005. He then taught at Rockhurst University as a professor of psychology from 2005 to 2015. He was named faculty member of the year at Rockhurst and has 10 professional publications, several of them focusing on social problem-solving. Dr. Madison is experienced in forensic psychological evaluations and pre-employment assessments for police.
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988 thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
Jared Altic has worked full time in the Church for 30 years. He’s been married to his beautiful wife since 1996, has five kids, and enjoys shooting, sports, and listening to podcasts. Jared has a long history of ministering to members of the military, law enforcement and other first responders, serving the Kansas City Kansas Police Department as a police chaplain since 2018. As a chaplain, he focuses on the health and wellness of patrol officers and also responds to unattended deaths, such as homicides and suicides.
https://twitter.com/heychaplain
https://www.facebook.com/Hey-Chaplain-Podcast-103865705279275
https://www.instagram.com/heychaplainpodcast/
https://heychaplain.buzzsprout.com
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988 thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988 thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
Rick Bucher had a normal enough childhood, but his life has been extraordinary since. An adventure sports athlete, racer, and instructor, Rick served as a firefighter/paramedic in Scottsdale, Arizona for 27 years. After narrowly surviving a rock climbing accident, motorcycle wreck and a suicide attempt, he went on to receive treatment for PTSD and is now working to increase awareness of mental health issues in the public safety arena. He also went on to find his biological family after decades of unanswered questions about who he was and where he came from. Eliminating the stigma of stepping forward for help and providing support for those who do is his new passion and he tours the country following opportunities to share his story, speaking to groups and spreading a message of hope, resilience and unity in the face of trauma. His story is a remarkable tale of redemption and a reminder of the power of the human spirit.
www.rb603.net
rickbucher603@gmail.com
Instagram: instagram.com/rickbucher603/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rick.bucher.3
Link to purchase book: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/flame-and-fortune-rick-bucher/1143034715?ean=9798215894200
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
Jim Giffen is a Firefighter working in the state of Kansas based in Johnson County. He has been in the fire service for over 10 years, being very active with Peer Support to better serve his fellow Firefighters. Jim’s primary focus in the fire service is mental wellness for those around him. He actively provides trainings, does routine check ups in the mornings with the crews, and he is very open about his own struggles. He served in the Army for five years active duty with 2-year long deployments to Iraq as an Infrantryman. He has been married for 17 years with 3 children and loving it. Through his struggles he has come to find no matter how much he fails, Jesus loves those seeking forgiveness, repenting and following him. Jim always keeps in mind God’s grace is sufficient.
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
Jermaine Kemp Sr. I am a compassionate, honest, and loving person, and I believe in helping others whenever I can. This is what drew me to become a firefighter, and I am grateful for the opportunity to serve my community in this way. For almost 26 years, I have been in the fire serviceand I currently hold the position of Shift Accountability Battalion Chief. I am proud to say that I am one of the 10 African-Americans who have been promoted to the level of chief during my tenure in the department. While this is certainly an accomplishment worth celebrating, it is also disappointing for me as it highlights the lack of diversity in our department, but I am hopeful for a more inclusive future. I am fortunate to have been married to my lovely wife, LaShonette Kemp for 25 years. Together, we have three amazing children - Aniah, Jermaine Jr., and Alexis. In my free time, I enjoy spending quality time with my family, traveling, and golfing. I am deeply inspired by the words and actions of civil rights leaders such as Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr. and I believe that their messages are still relevant today. My favorite book is "Untethered Soul" by Michael A. Singer, which encourages self-awareness and inner peace. I am grateful for all of the experiences that have shaped me into the person I am today and look forward to continuing to make a positive impact on the world around me.National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
John has been in the fire service for over 18 years and was recently promoted to the rank of captain. He joins us today to talk about leadership, mental health and the challenges of being a first responder with an autistic child. National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
Rob Hughes anchors “First News” on KMBC ABC 9/KCWE CW 29 in Kansas City, Missouri, weekdays from 7 a.m. - 9 a.m., and noon. He previously served as a general assignment reporter and fill-in anchor at KMBC's sister station, KOCO ABC 5 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.Rob has worked as an anchor, reporter and producer at KSWT CBS 13 in Yuma, Arizona, KRGV ABC 5 in McAllen Texas, and KJCT ABC 8 and KKCO NBC 11, both in Grand Junction, Colorado.Hughes earned his MBA from Emporia State University. He’s a lifetime member of Beta Gamma Sigma, the premier honorary organization for students in business, and recognized worldwide as an indicator of outstanding achievement. Beta Gamma Sigma chapters are limited to schools of business that are accredited by AACSB International. To earn membership, graduate students must be in the top 20% of their class. Hughes also graduated from the University of Southern California with Bachelor of Arts degrees in political science and communication.Hughes was on the Dean’s list and a recipient of the Order of Troy, presented to the top 140 out of 4,000 graduating seniors for superior academics, leadership and service.While at USC, Hughes was host of “Political Platforum” and “CU@USC,” which was voted best college television talk show by Spin Magazine. The show reaches nearly 2 million homes in the greater Los Angeles area. For his work, Hughes was voted best male host and best senior host. Some of his most memorable interviews include Star Wars creator George Lucas, actors Gary Sinise and Laurence Fishburne, Grammy Award-winning band Train and former USC quarterback Mark Sanchez.Hughes serves as an infantry officer in the Kansas Army National Guard. He’s currently a division operations staff officer, and previously served as a battalion operations staff officer, human resources/administrative officer, company executive officer and rifle platoon leader. Hughes deployed to Ukraine in 2016-2017 as part of Operation Atlantic Resolve, European Reassurance Initiative, Joint Multinational Training Group Ukraine, Task Force Tomahawk. Hughes helped train the Ukrainian Army, and worked with the Canadian, Polish, Lithuanian, British and Danish militaries to help build Ukraine’s first ever Combat Training Center.His awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal with M Device, National Defense Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Army Certificate of Achievement and a Citation of Commendation from the Oklahoma State Senate and Oklahoma House of Representatives for being 1 of 16 out of a total 64 soldiers to graduate from Officer Candidate School, and for his commitment to education.Hughes emcees multiple charity events annually. He serves on the Board of Directors of the Kansas City Autism Training Center/Astra Day School. Hughes enjoys spending time with his wife Rhea, children Robbie, Rowan, and Rhen. He also enjoys playing guitar, surfing, snowboarding, running and volunteering.National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
Ana joins us to talk about the challenges of having to change roles in the fire service/ems due to injury.
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
Steve Gillespie’s career as a first responder, police officer, and a firefighter began in 1983 with his first fatal motor vehicle accident as a seventeen-year-old volunteer firefighter. His paid career as a New York City firefighter began in 1994 before he retired after twenty-one years on the job. He served his entire FDNY career in The Bronx, one of the busiest boroughs of the FDNY. He served on Engine 63, and thirteen years with Squad 41 before retiring in 2015 as a Lieutenant on Engine 43. The Bronx has a history and a reputation of its’ own and spending twenty-one years there exposed him to much tragedy including responding to the World Trade Center tragedy on September 11, 2001, the “Black Sunday” fire, the Deutsch Bank fire, and many others involving the multiple injuries and loss of firefighters and civilians alike. Steve is a respected instructor with experience teaching at the FDNY Probationary Firefighter School, the FDNY Technical Rescue School, and presenting at national conferences such as the Firehouse Expo and the Fire Department Instructor’s Conference, both as a lecturer and a H.O.T. instructor. He is presently a peer team member with the Lowcountry Firefighter Support Team, Inc. and has become a Training Officer with the North Charleston Fire Department since retiring from the FDNY in 2015. Steve will share his story of how he has gone beyond his PTSD diagnosis to PTG (Post Traumatic Growth) with the help of therapy, medication, and becoming a peer counselor. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder is a silent injury that is not discussed as openly as it should be. Steve offers his story with others hoping they realize that there is no longer a stigma with being in pain. Gone are the days of “suck it up kid” and “we don’t talk about that stuff”. Talking helps empty “the box” of stored up trauma and images before it can overflow and affect you and your home life. This is not a scientific study or research but Steve’s story and how he has “Survived the Job”.
smg9340@outlook.com
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
Mark has been an EMT since 1993. Fireman since 1994. Promoted to Battalion chief in 2013. Got medic in 2015. Transferred to an admin EMS Division Chief spot last summer.
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
Josh Krasovec and Jeremy talk about how lowering standards effects first responders and citizens they serve.
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
Jarrett is a 15yr veteran of the fire service and also runs the youtube page, Tech under fire.
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
Matt volunteers as a chaplain and peer support for police agencies in Los Angeles. He also is a volunteer for nonprofits that support police officers in crisis, as well as those that are injured and disabled. Matt believes all first responders can have careers that provide deeper meaning and add richness to their spiritual lives if approached in the right manner. Matt is a medically retired police officer that worked patrol, Peer Support, SWAT, and as a full-time police academy instructor. Matt was the Wellness Coordinator for his agency integrating sports nutrition, strength, and conditioning, stress management, combatives-and-scenario training regarding officers as tactical athletes. He also was concurrently a collegiate strength coach at Yale and Georgetown Universities while a full-time police officer. Later he was a strength coach and mental skills trainer for NFL combine athletes. At Yale, he volunteered for Athletes in Action and at Georgetown, he created an ecumenical ministry Hoyas for Christ. Matt also has been a volunteer with Hockey Ministries International summer camps. Matt played linebacker and was a competitive powerlifter for the Air Force Academy and Colgate University. He has an MS in Forensic Science under Dr. Henry Lee, an MS in Sport Psychology under Dr. Ken Ravizza, a MA in Pastoral Theology with a concentration in Spiritual Direction from Loyola Marymount University, and an additional spiritual direction certificate from Stillpoint. Matt focused his studies and additional immersion experiences in the contemplative traditions as well as masculine spirituality and psychology. Matt’s niche is spending time in the trenches with first responders and veterans establishing trust and rapport. He does weekly ride alongs and station visits, observes and participates in any training that he is invited to, and goes shooting with veterans transitioning out of the military. His approach is not the traditional reacting to crisis or responding to requests, rather he pro-activity spends time with those he cares about while they are on the job. Matt’s priority is encouraging better overall wellness, life balance, mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual self-care BEFORE officers or firefighters experience a breakdown or a crisis. However, Matt is also well versed in response to critical incidents as well as spending time with first responders at treatment facilities for PTSD and substance abuse issues. His ministry vision post covid lockdown is to continue to spend time in the trenches with officers, provide confidential peer support and spiritual direction, and facilitate a contemplative prayer group with “way of council” sharing for first responders and veterans in Los Angeles. Matt also plans to offer free wellness events integrating various aspects of fitness and martial arts, mindfulness and yoga, small group sharing, and fellowship with ribeyes on the grill. In a variety of ways, he hopes to provide platforms where first responders learn to use their unique career experiences as a spiritual path, rather than it leading to breakdown which unfortunately happens too often in these professions.
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com #NeverAloneAlwaysForward
Jon Sabala is the Veterans Services Director with the Missouri Department of Mental Health. He is responsible for the statewide policy and program development, implementation and operation of supportive services for service members, veterans and their families. Co-lead for the Governor’s Challenge to Prevent Suicide among SMVF. Jon is a Certified Peer Specialist and a retired U.S. Army Infantryman with 22-years of service whose deployments including Operation Desert Storm, Kosovo, Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation New Dawn.
Facebook: Mental Health for Missouri's Veterans and Families (@dmhveteran)
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Mental-Health-for-Missouris-Veterans-and-Families/328933720453120
Facebook: Missouri Veterans Suicide Prevention Team (@MOVSPT) https://www.facebook.com/MOVSPT
Twitter: DMH Veterans (@dmhveteran) https://twitter.com/dmhveteran
MO Dept of Mental Health-Veterans Services website: https://dmh.mo.gov/veterans
Missouri Governor’s Challenge to Prevent Suicide among Service Members, Veterans and their Families www.mogovchallenge.com
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988 thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com #NeverAloneAlwaysForward
Steve began his career as an on-call firefighter with the Township of Langley Fire Department in 1992 and five years later, joined the Coquitlam Fire Rescue full-time. He was elected to the executive board of IAFF Local 1782 (Coquitlam) in 2005 and was promoted to Captain in 2015. In addition, Steve is a VP on the BC Professional Fire Fighter Association (BCPFFA) which represents over 4,000 professional firefighters across BC. He chairs both the BCPFFA's Health and Safety Committee and their Mental Health Task Force. Steve is a member of Coquitlam Fire Rescue's Critical Incident Stress Team and has taken the lead in defusing a multitude of critical incidents. He also serves as a Peer Supporter for his co-workers and has organized and hosted several mental health awareness nights for firefighter spouses and partners. Steve represents the BCPFFA on the B.C.'s First Responder Mental Health Steering Committee, chaired by WorkSafeBC. National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
Cody Shea is a Firefighter Paramedic at Medic 5 on Tacoma’s Eastside and joined the Tacoma Fire Department in 2018. Cody also contributes photos and videos for the department’s social media and has a previous photo and film background prior to becoming a Tacoma Firefighter. He comes from a firefighting family with both parents currently retired from the Seattle Fire Department. Cody also works as an independent contractor under his company C. Ray Shea Media. www.thecallwecarry.com
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
GEORGE COWGILL
I was born in Birmingham, Alabama 49 years ago, still here.. probably going to die here, too.. I have a beautiful wife, a beautiful daughter, three rescue pit bulls and two cats. I sang for a punk band called Exhaust throughout the mid-nineties. We toured America coast-to-coast for two years with a spitfire vengeance, sleeping in basements, backseats, and roach motels. Without question, it was the best time of my life. I also owned a punk rock nightclub in the 1990s called Unity 1605. It was strictly non-profit and run in true D.I.Y. (do-it-yourself) fashion. In 2001 I wrote and directed the documentary “0274. Rezulin and the Death of Monica George.” The film is an emotional and somewhat disturbing story about a drug, a death, and a trial. The film paints a bleak portrait of justice in corporate America, relevant with society's descent into a nameless, faceless outlook on human life. Upon completion of the film I did a nationwide tour, speaking at universities and independent theatres. Of note was an invite to speak at Johns Hopkins. I spent the next few years writing screenplays, bartending, and traveling. I’ve had two books published, “An Account of Nothing” and “Unsung and Uncounted.” And then the firefighting… I followed in my dad’s footsteps and took a job with the Birmingham Fire and Rescue Service. Since day one I clocked in at one of the busiest fire stations in America. Fire, death, murder, you name it. I’ve never drank alcohol, even though I own two restaurants (Black Market Bar + Grill, 280 and 5pts). I play ice hockey to clear my head and I lift weights to keep calm. The last time I smoked a cigarette, or anything else for that matter, was in 1986. And I write. I write a lot.
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
Richard Hy, better known as Angry Cops is a police officer, Army Drill Instructor and social media personality with over 1.2 million subscribers on youtube, not to mention tik tok, instagram, and facebook.
@AngryCops on youtube, instagram, and facebook
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
Neveralonealwaysforward
Adam James has been a lifelong resident of Kansas City, Missouri, Adam attended St.Paul’s Episcopal Day School and Paseo Academy of Fine and Performing Arts. Adam attended Park University with an emphasis on public relations and broadcasting but reprioritized his career path after the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.Adam began the Kansas City Fire Academy in July of 2003, following his father’s footsteps to become a Kansas City Fire Fighter. While training at the academy, Adam suffered a serious injury, resulting in a shortened career after spinal fusion surgery in 2016. During his time with the Kansas City Fire Department, he served as a Business Agent for IAFF Local 42,coordinating communications with local and national media outlets for the union’s leadership. After entering into early retirement, Adam found himself lost and disconnected from the firefighter brotherhood. This period of reflection and discernment allowed for Adam to reconnect with his faith and realize God’s calling for him to live out servanthood as a deacon in the Episcopal Church. In 2020, Adam entered Bishop Kemper School for Ministry in Topeka, Kansas, as a postulant for Holy Orders to the Diaconate. During the summer of 2021, while completing numerous requirements for ordination, Adam was admitted to Saint Luke’s Health System’s Clinical Pastoral Education program as a chaplain intern. Spending 100 clinical hours achieving Level I CPE certification, Adam found himself called back to his firefighter experience many times in several intense occurrences with people in crisis. Among the many patients in need, Adam provided care to several front-line workers in a clinical ministerial setting. As Adam completes his final year of seminary, he has experienced God’s calling to engage his future diaconal ministry by developing awareness and ministry programs for first responder spiritual wellness, specifically firefighters, both active and retired.
The Rev. Adam James, Deacon
Hybrid Ministry Coordinator
dcnadam@standrewkc.org
816-352-2742
National Suicide Prevention Hotline 988
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
Neveralonealwaysforward
Taylor Wilkinson has worked in EMS for close to 11 years for various agencies. She recently made a social media post that went viral about why she was quitting EMS.
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
Neveralonealwaysforward
Josh Krasovec is a retired police officer. After 15 years with KCPD came to a close after receiving a ptsd diagnosis, Josh went on to be a founding member of a non-profit providing behavioral health services to veterans, first responders, and frontline medical personnel. He is a Kansas City native and alumni of Pittsburg State University.
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
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A nearly 20-year veteran of the fire service, Zapp holds the rank of Lieutenant and owns Fire Rescue Wellness, a coaching business dedicated to elevating the mental and physical wellness of firefighters worldwide. She earned a master’s degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the University of South Dakota School of Medicine and is a National Strength and Conditioning Association CSCS D and TSAC-F D. She’s also certified by the International Society of Sports Nutrition and the Society for Neurosports. In 2020, she served on an Illinois Senate task force focused on mitigating first responder suicide. Zapp is a former adjunct faculty member at the University of Denver in the graduate program for Sport Coaching, a recognized industry leader in the firefighter health and wellness field, a proud co-author of the recently published ISSN Position Stand on Tactical Athlete Fueling, a proud member of the newly formed Associated Firefighters of Illinois Resiliency Committee and the host of the FRW podcast. Annette Zapp, MA NSCA-CSCS D NSCA-TSAC Facilitator D FRC(ms) Certified ISSN Certified Society for Neurosports Precision Nutrition Level 1 Coach W — www.firerescuewellness.org E — info@firerescuewellness.org
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In 1998, while stationed in Kitimat, British Columbia with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), Laurie was shot in the right leg by an alleged sex offender wielding a sawed-off .303 rifle. Damage was so severe that her leg had to be amputated 5 inches below her knee. After only ten months of rehabilitation, Laurie passed the physical test standard for the RCMP and made an unprecedented return to full, unrestricted general policing duties with a prosthetic leg. When Laurie retired from the RCMP in 2020, she achieved a 22+ year goal of publishing her memoir (“10-33, An Officer Down Steps Back Up”). In addition to being a best-selling author, Laurie has been a sought-after speaker since 1999. She candidly shares her experiences as a first responder navigating mental health issues and life with a permanent physical disability. While Laurie’s journey began as one of trauma, loss, and grief, it evolved into one of hope, resilience, and post-traumatic growth.
https://www.amazon.ca/10-33-Officer-Down-Steps-Back/dp/103911573X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1EOSZBY0Y2B8X&keywords=10-33+an+officer+down+steps+back+up&qid=1666236350&qu=eyJxc2MiOiIwLjA1IiwicXNhIjoiMC4wOCIsInFzcCI6IjAuMTUifQ%3D%3D&sprefix=%2Caps%2C114&sr=8-1
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In this episode of the podcast Jeremy sits down with Nick Binder and Scott Bond to talk about their perspective of mental health and the fire service. Nick is a paramedic with about 5 years experience and Scott was 3.5 year active duty army infantry, 5 years army reserve firefighter, 2 years with current department, 5 years emergency medical experience.
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Jason Spreitzer is a full-time professional Firefighter with over 19 years in a large fire department in Missouri. He graduated from Park University with a Bachelor's in Criminal Justice. He is pursuing his Graduate Degree in Leadership at the University of Arkansas. He served as a police officer in Glendale, Arizona, for four years. Jason also is a consulting partner in an employee and independent benefit firm for over 18 years. Jason is a survivor of job-related cancer. He worked in media relations and helped form the Public Outreach Office. From his 23 years of public safety experience, he says, "I have learned a lot to include the most important thing in our lives is our families at home and work."
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Joey, Leon, Ian, Rob and Jeremy sit down while on a Swel Mission in California to talk about their experiences with the program.
www.theswel.org
@theswelmission
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Dr. Tania Glenn is the president of Tania Glenn and Associates, a clinical practice in Central TX that is focused on promoting resilience and providing critical care to first responders and veterans. As a leading national clinician in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Dr. Glenn specializes in creating effective programs designed to mitigate traumatic stress and to assist patients with their return to normalcy as quickly as possible. As a licensed clinician with thirty years of experience, Dr. Glenn deployed to the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995, New York City in 2001, New Orleans for Hurricane Katrina in 2005, Dallas in 2016 for the aftermath of the attack on the Dallas Police Department, and to Uvalde for the school shooter in 2022. Recognized nationally, Dr. Glenn’s clients include a host of Texas and Arizona Police, Fire and EMS Departments, Federal Law Enforcement agencies, commercial aviation, and air medical programs. She is the Clinical Director for several peer support teams with her unique perspective on special operations competencies. Dr. Glenn is a noted author with numerous books dealing with mental health, PTSD, first responders, military, and family. Additionally, she has been involved in several documentaries dealing directly with mental health trauma.
www.taniaglenn.com
www.smashingthestigma.com
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Travis Gribble is a retired law enforcement officer from the Mesa, AZ PD. He has been a guest speaker at several law enforcement conference's with presentations regarding PTSD in law enforcement and also posting video's to his instagram to raise awareness about PTSD in first responders.
@My_.Arena Instagram
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Kelsey Helfrich is an Air Force veteran, previously worked for KCPD and currently is a Police Officer for Mesa, Arizona PD.
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In this episode James and I talk about the current state of mental health issues in the first responder world and some failures that need to be addressed.
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In this episode we speak with Police Officer Joe Guinn. We talk about his journey from a very rough childhood in east St. Louis and the mental health struggles that it brought, to him becoming a police officer and breaking that cycle.
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On this episode we sit down with Tabitha & Cory Parrot to discuss what led them to being First Responders and how they keep their relationship strong while dealing with the unique challenges these careers bring.
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I was born to 2 military parents in Mayaguez, Puerto Rico. My siblings and I started school there and soon moved to Hawaii. After a few years on these 2 beautiful islands, our family of 5 decided to settle down in Texas where my brother and I finished our high school years. Moving so much throughout my childhood had made my family extremely close. For most of our years, it has always been just the 5 of us. No close relatives or family. So, when we lost my oldest sister in 2008, it was overwhelmingly devastating. Soon after my sisters death, I joined the Air Force and moved to Japan. I found love, got married and had a precious baby boy in 2012. In Feb of 2013, I was living in Maryland, on base housing at JBA. I was only 8 months postpartum when I got the knock on my door saying my husband had died. This turned me into a downward spiral. I struggled with addiction for many years after this and even made the decision to give my son over to my parents incase my addiction took my life. Thankfully, in 2017, I was able to quit using when I learned I was pregnant again. I had found love once more and was trying so damn hard to get my family back together. When this finally happened, it was one of the greatest accomplishments of my life. I’ve learned many new ways to cope with stress, grief, anxiety etc throughout these years I’ve been in recovery and in 2020, my dad passed away. I prayed that I wouldn’t turn back to my old ways and I implemented these new techniques I’ve learned to manage my episodes of stress and depression. I’m hoping to write a book to help others like me that deal with complex grief, mental health and addiction.
@nataleeeking instagram and tiktok
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Lauren is a Veteran who served in the Army as a Combat Medic for 14 years. They are the Director and a Founder of Hippie and a Veteran Foundation, a 501c3 dedicated to spreading awareness and speaking out against systems that limit access to alternative PTSD treatments for Veterans. She is a Medical Access Activist who advocates and advises on legislation at both the State and Federal level for Veterans and other Marginalized Communities. www.hippieandaveteran.com
@hippieandaveteran on facebook and instagram
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Brent Fenton AKA: Firefighter Fenton Brent is a Captain/Paramedic with 19 years in the fire service, serving in Arizona. He has been married to his wife Stephanie for 12 years and together they have 4 children. Brent has amassed nearly 1 million followers across his multiple social media platforms which gives viewers a peak behind the curtain of the fire service, and highlights the comedy that surrounds us everyday.
@firefighterfenton FB - IG - YouTube - TikTok
Twitter (@firefighterfent)
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Sheriff Will Akin has over 27 years of combined experience in the military and law enforcement. With over 8 years of active duty service in the United States Army, Will gained leadership and management experience as both a Non-Commissioned Officer and as a Chief Warrant Officer. He enlisted in the Army in October 1994 and after working four years as a Parachute Rigger; he attended the Army’s flight program and spent the next four years as a pilot flying the UH-60 Blackhawk Helicopter. After being honorably discharged from the Army in February 2003, he began his law enforcement career when he attended the Arizona Law Enforcement Academy in April 2003. As a Police Advisor in Afghanistan from 2009 to 2012, Will assessed, monitored, advised, and mentored local police in order to ensure that law and order were maintained effectively and impartially according to the principles of policing. Topics under advisement during his time overseas included logistics, training, finance, case management, and operations. Will worked closely with the Department of Defense, Department of State, United Nations, and his Afghan counterparts to address issues concerning gender and human rights violations and worked toward solutions that were compatible with Afghanistan’s culture. Sheriff Will Akin joined the Clay County Sheriff’s Office in January 2013 as a Lieutenant in Field Operations. After his promotion to Captain in June 2015, he served as the Division Commander of the Emergency Preparedness Division and oversaw operations for Emergency Management, the 9-1-1 Communications Center, Public Information, and Media Relations. Will was also the appointed Director of Emergency Management for Clay County and served in that capacity until December 31, 2020. On January 1, 2021, Will assumed his new duties as the 42nd Sheriff of Clay County’s 200 year history. Will is an active member in the community as well. He serves as the Post Commander for the Liberty Memorial VFW Post #4043, is a member of the American Legion Post #95, and the Liberty Rotary Club #6040. Originally from California, Will has lived in many states throughout the U.S. as well as South Korea and Afghanistan. Will earned an A.S. in Behavioral Science from Georgia Military College, a B.S. in Criminal Justice and his M.B.A. in Management from California Coast University, a Graduate Certificate from the University of Virginia in Criminal Justice Education, and his Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) from Olivet Nazarene University in Ethical Leadership. Will is also a graduate of the FBI National Academy Session 264
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Zach Poe who is a 12 year Marine Corps Veteran with multiple deployments all over the world. This includes several Combat Deployments and Bi Lateral Training Deployments. Zach is currently working as a Full Time Waterfowl Guide and in the process of starting his own Guide Service. He has helped establish The Fallen Outdoors Team North Carolina, which is a Veteran Non Profit organization that concentrates on connecting Vets through the Outdoors. He has also worked with several other organizations to help get Veterans outdoors participating in activities like hunting and fishing. Https://www.facebook.com/zach.poe.988
Https://www.instagram.com/poepoe_90
Jason Holm is a 3 year member of the Fire Department and a guide at Raining Steel Waterfowl. Originally a Nebraska native, Jason developed a passion for the outdoors and has been waterfowl hunting for over 10 years.
https://www.instagram.com/raining_steel_waterfowl?r=nametag
https://www.facebook.com/RainingSteelWaterfowl/
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Katy grew up in Minnesota, just south of Twin Cities. After high school she attended the University of Wisconsin-Stout where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interior Design and later worked as a commercial interior designer. In 2010, she was laid off from the architecture firm she worked at, she went back to school for law enforcement and attended the police academy. She served as a police officer first in Minnesota, then moved to Missouri where she served until 2016. After six years as a police officer, she left the force and focused on her own businesses and returned to her art. She met Gary & Trish in April 2021 and joined the Monkey Brain Art mission. She is now the Director of Artist Engagement and a Warrior Art Instructor with Monkey Brain Art.
Website: www.monkeybrainart.org
IG: https://www.instagram.com/monkeybrainartproject/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MonkeyBrainArtProject
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Jason Patton is a 15 year Firefighter/Paramedic and Driver Engineer. Jason is also the creator of Fire Department Chronicles, a popular social media channel which has amassed over 3.8 million followers. Jason is a strong supporter Mental Health in the First Responders. https://www.facebook.com/firedepartmentchronicles
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John Young has been in the fire service for 21 years. Specialty training 12 years in our rescue division. Been a driver for 8 years. There is still a huge stigma about mental health in the fire service. More people need to step up and be more vocal about it. We are failing each other by not talking about it.
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Dr. Vawter is the owner and operator of Industrial Athletics, a fitness testing, movement screening and psychological testing company that targets public safety professionals and healthcare workers. After being a paramedic for 5 years and struggling with injuries and mental health the parallels between sports performance and public safety are were undeniable. In 2016 he quit his full time paramedic position to pursue this concept. Fast forward 7 years, and lots of school he is in the first few years of this concept coming to life.
Industrialathleticskc.com
@industrialathleticskc Instagram
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Patrick Bainbridge Employed with the Kansas City VA for over 6 years with the last 3 ½ years working as a Suicide Prevention Coordinator. Prior to coming to the VA, had worked 9 years in Corrections as a Mental Health Professional. Graduated from University of Kansas with an MSW in 2007.
Cara Hall Current position at the KCVA: Suicide Prevention Coordinator, worked 12+ years with Homeless Veterans prior to that. Graduated from the University of Georgia with an MSW in 2004.
Veteran’s Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
@thewashdownpodcast on instagram
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Matt returns to the podcast to talk about events after his last guest spot and how he ended up in out patient treatment and the positive impact it has had on his life.
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Today's guests are Billy Clark and Craig Cumpton. Both served in the Air Force before coming in to the fire service and both of have gone through The Battle Within. They share their stories and how going through that program helped them and how important it is for first responders to take care of their mental health.
https://www.thebattlewithin.org/
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Steve Pope
Captain (11 years) Kansas City, Kansas Fire Department (total time 26 years) High School Golf Coach for Piper High School Boys and Girls teams Founder of the Firefighter Golf YouTube channel, instagram, Twitter. This is the brand that started the PTSD Awareness mission using the game of golf. Led to the founding of the First Responder Golf Foundation to help raise money to get first responders out on the golf course to decompress and reinvigorate back into life.
Links: Firefighter Golf
https://www.instagram.com/firefighter_golf
https://youtu.be/xI0KBflCMJk
Foundation links: https://www.firstrespondergolf.org/
https://www.instagram.com/firstrespondergolffoundation/
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James, Chris and Jeremy talk about the rising cost of gas and inflation and the possible impacts on first responders and their mental health.
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Bear enlisted in the Army infantry in 2005 attended infantry school at foxtrot 1/50 in FT Benning GA. After graduation he was assigned to the second battalion 6th infantry regiment and immediately deployed to Baghdad. After the deployment returned to Germany for a year then deployed to Salmon Pak Iraq. left the army after this deployment and joined the police force. He spent 4years in Harrisonville Mo where he worked the road and narcotics. In 2015 he came to Clay County worked road patrol, courts and is currently a corporal assigned to School resource unit.
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Military Matters is a program that fills the gap in legal services available to service members and veterans living in the greater Kansas City Metropolitan area. Military Matters collaborates with support agencies serving the service members and veterans in the area to identify the most needed legal services and provide assistance to those who do not qualify for aid from other agencies. We would encourage any veterans or service members to learn more about Military Matters at our website, https://militarymatterskc.org/.
Our website also includes how an individual can determine if they qualify for the program and who to contact with any questions.
Launch of Military Matters: Money Matters! We have created the Military Matters KC YouTube Channel where we provide videos made by local Kansas City attorneys meant to educate our local veterans and service members on various topics. Just launched – the Military Matters: Money Matters video series includes topics such as Identity Theft Prevention, and How to Create a Budget. To find these videos, visit our Military Matters KC YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8BtqjXxFWPGu7tOlCwl63w Military Matters: Money Matters Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLi7F8MSkmYm 5CxeEiDlPCoDUk_gV-1X6
Join us at our upcoming Military Matters VeteRUN 5k! We will be hosting the 3rd Annual VeteRUN 5k run/walk at the National WWI Museum & Memorial on June 25. We will be bringing back the Kids Fun Run this year and would love to have everyone join us. All proceeds from the 5k will go towards supporting the ongoing operations of Military Matters. To sign up, head to https://militarymatterskc.org/! We also have options for local businesses to sponsor the race or to table at the race!
Thank you to our current sponsors, Media Sponsor Country 94.1 KFKF, Presenting Sponsors AARP Kansas City and Centonzio Law, PLLC, Gold Sponsor Stueve Siegel Hanson LLP, and Silver Sponsors Gary Crossley Ford, Polsinelli PC, and Stout Law, LLC.
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Mike and Ashley have been together for 9 years and married for 6. They join us to talk about what it is like to be married to a first responder and the effects that can have on the home life.
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Wendy is a retired law enforcement officer who is the host of the podcast Guns & Yoga.
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Kimberly Whitman, LCSW is a trauma therapist with over 10 years of experience in the mental health field. Ms. Whitman received her Master of Social Work from New Mexico State University and is completing her Ph.D. in Social Work at Walden University. She is an Army combat veteran, having been deployed to operations Southern Watch, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom. Her active-duty service at Fort Bliss provided practical experience in cultural diversity, the examination of risk factors of several psychiatric disorders, trauma-informed care, substance use, suicide risk, and criminal justice-related to mental health. Ms. Whitman served as the Valor Recovery Program Director and Clinical Supervisor for STAR Program, behavioral health programs treating military and first responders in Kansas City, Missouri. In October 2021, she opened a private practice called MY-E which represents empowerment over past experiences. MY-E grew from telehealth only to in person individual sessions on April 4, 2022. Ms. Whitman treats a multitude of mental health problems and accepts private pay as well as several insurance coverages. Her office is located at 5746 N Broadway, Kansas City, MO 64118. Ms. Whitman continues to provide mental health services to our community including studying firefighters’ experiences in seeking mental health services in hopes of contributing to research on how to better meet the needs of our firefighters suffering from mental health problems. https://www.my-e.space/ HTTPS://kimberly-whitman.clientsecure.me https://mobile.twitter.com/myeome https://instagram.com/myeome?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y= https://www.facebook.com/MYEome/ thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com #NeverAloneAlwaysForward
As the owner and clinical director of Midwest Neurofeedback (MWNF), Laura and her husband began building MWNF in 2004 to serve the KC metro community with neurofeedback and biofeedback services. At that time, there was only one other provider of those services in the area. After that practitioner moved away, MWNF remained the solo provider of neurofeedback services in this area for quite some time. Laura's educational background is a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from Texas Tech; Licensed Master's Level Psychologist from the state of Kansas and Board Certified in neurofeedback from the certifying body. Laura's professional experience encompasses a wide range of settings and populations - from rural school districts, medical centers, and women's health clinics to locked and open psychiatric units and addiction units, a physical rehab hospital, as well as, emergency mental health assessments with Dade County EMT's. Midwest Neurofeedback has been serving adults, children and families of the KC community since 2004 with many different issues/diagnoses being addressed - anxiety, depression, PTSD, trauma, headaches, ADHD, concussion/TBI, misophonia, tinnitus, chemo brain, sleep issues, etc. Laura has been offering free neurofeedback services to military veterans for nearly 10 years as part of the homecoming4vets program. Some of her current interests include a program for 1st responders (similar to the homecoming4vets program) and neuromeditation, utilizing neurofeedback to facilitate meditation directly. This interest was enlivened by 2 working trips to Plum Village (the monastic home of Thich Nhat Hanh) outside Bordeaux France. During those visits, Laura and her colleagues completed brain maps and trained the brothers and sisters with neurofeedback. It was a life changing opportunity and experience. While Laura's interests continue to be varied, her plan is to carry on the vision that she and her husband established of utilizing neurofeedback to help heal our community, one nervous system at a time. Laura Bratt, MA, LMLP, BCN Owner Midwest Neurofeedback (913) 383-8100 | Laura@midwestneurofeedback.com | www.midwestneurofeedback.com | 6700 Antioch Rd Suite 125 Overland Park, KS 66204 thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
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John McKie is a Battalion Chief in the Fire Service with 19 years of experience. Co-owner of Coco's style lounge going into their 10th year. Coaching is his passion which he has have coached football, basketball, soccer and life. "Two things I try to remind myself daily is everyday is a opportunity to learn and enjoy the process. Being a father and husband are my most important jobs."
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Jay Thorne is the founder and CEO of Veterans Outdoor Foundation. He is an Army veteran. He started VOF in 2021 as a way to continue to serve. https://www.facebook.com/veteransoutdoorsfoundation/
TikTok @veteransoutdoorsfdnigy6
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Anna Odirisio has been a paramedic for 5 years. She joins us today to talk about the impact that getting Covid has had on her physically and mentally. thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
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Janna Rumney is a police officer. She has been on the job for a little over 4 years now, prior to this she was a full time student and full time 9-1-1 dispatcher for a smaller department. She went to college to be a music teacher, but switched majors 2 years into the degree program to Communications with an emphasis in Public Relations. She will graduate with her bachelors degree in May from Northwest Missouri State University. She is engaged to be married in October 2022, and her fiance is also a police officer. In her free time, she likes to do CrossFit, play with her dogs, and read.
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Rachel Scattergood is on the Board of Directors of SWEL, Inc. and serves as Treasurer. She was a participant in the very first SWEL mission after her close friend, Overland Park Officer Michael Mosher, was shot and killed in the line of duty on May 3rd, 2020. A few months later, she joined SWEL as a board member to help other first responders experiencing job-related struggles. Rachel has been a police officer for ten years. She has spent time as a Patrol Officer, a School Resource Officer, has worked in the Family Crimes Unit and is currently a Patrol Sergeant on the overnight shift. Rachel holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Law Enforcement and Justice Administration from Western Illinois University and is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Public Safety Administration. In addition to serving on the Board of Directors of SWEL, Rachel is passionate about animal welfare and owns a farm in rural Cass County with horses, cows, chickens, pigs, dogs, cats and a turtle named Flash. https://www.theswel.org/ @theswelmission (instagram and facebook) @do.the.scarn (farm tiktok)
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In this episode James and Jeremy sit down with Kansas City, Mo Mayor Quinton Lucas to discuss mental health and leadership during the pandemic.
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Kip Nelson has been a pastor for almost 30 years. For the last 20 years he as served in various roles with Legacy Christian Church (www.lcc.org). Kip has been Chaplain for the Lee’s Summit Police Department in Lee’s Summit, Missouri for 7 years and Peer Support Coordinator for 5 years. For the past 3 years, Kip has also served on the board of directors and chaplain for FRST Midwest www.frstmidwest.org/. FRST Midwest is a non-profit organization established in 2019 to provide educational programs to promote healthy development following stress and critical incidents experienced by first responders and their families, including collaboration with culturally competent mental health professionals. Kip has also served at the West Coast Post Trauma Retreat (WCPR) as chaplain and peer support. The WCPR program is for first responders whose lives have been affected by their work experience. WCPR is one of only two residential treatment facilities of its kind in the world. For more information go to http://www.frstmidwest.org/west-coast-post-trauma-retreat/. Kip has been married to Catherine for 30 years and has 3 amazing kids Grace, Grant and Garrett. His favorite activities are spending time with his family including his grandson Kyland. He also enjoys riding mountain bikes, playing drums and traveling. Kip is also working towards his Biblical Counseling Certification through The Association of Certified Biblical Counselors. He us specializing in grief and trauma.
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Matt Blome 45 yo Married w/ 2 step sons (wife is from Fiji). Born and raised on a farm in Iowa Falls, Ia. Played college basketball at a JUCO and transferred to NW Missouri State. I love sports and fishing! After college (elementary education major with child psych minor) ran a tire shop in Maryville, Mo. Went to my first police academy in St. Joseph, Mo in June 2000. Was an officer at Maryville Public Safety and KCI Airport Police for 6 plus years. Took a break from law enforcement and volunteered on a federal contract in Iraq for 13 months. Embedded with the US Army as a police transition team member assisting the Iraqi National Police. Shortly after my return to the states, I went to Afghanistan for seven months and did it all over again. After my return from Afghanistan, I joined a large metro department (going on 10 years). I did two years with an Impact Squad (which happen to fall in during the riots & protests). CIT Officer, and now a district officer.
My name is Brian Caniglia and I have been with my current department for 3 years now and did 3 years with a smaller department before. I wanted to get in to policing way back in 2008ish. I tried a number of times in Phoenix, AZ but the recession hit so I was sol until 2015. I played baseball for years and thought policing was like a big team working together against the opposition. Obviously I have learned it’s not just catching bad guys, but helping the community any way I can. I have accomplished a few cool things in my short career. I received the award for Officer of the year in the metro in 2018 with my partner at the time Mike Mosher. Sadly Mike was shot in the line of duty on May 3rd, 2020. He received his second officer of the year the year he died along with your recent guest Tyler Moss. Other awards I have received are the gold award for valor and life savings award. It’s been a very interesting 6 years and glad I will be on the podcast.
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In this episode James, Chris and Jeremy cover a lot of ground between south park and Russia.
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In this episode Chris and i discuss some of the mental and physical hurdles associated with on the job injuries.
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Lieutenant Jon Koch
Patrol Watch Commander FRST Midwest Regional Coordinator – KC Metro
Jon has been in law enforcement since 1997. Jon has worked in Patrol, Communications, and Detention at various points in his career and currently serves as the Administrative Lieutenant for the Patrol Division. Jon has been apart of Peer Support for the last 10 years and is currently the Administrator of the Peer Support Team for his department. Jon is also a Regional Coordinator for the non-profit, FRST Midwest, where he assists with training new and veteran Peer Support team members as well as coordinates Peer Support’s response to critical incidents. Jon has a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Washburn University and is a graduate of the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center’s Johnson County Regional Academy. Jon will complete the FBILEEDA’s Leadership Institutes Trilogy series in September of 2022. Jon is married to Jill Koch, who is a Master Deputy with the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, and they have four children ranging from 11 years old to 18 years old.
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In this episode, guest Scott Nelson returns and he and James and Jeremy have a great discussion about Jeeps and also the addictive aspects of hobbies for first responders.
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On this episode of the podcast Rachel and Dana join me and we talk about relationship issues with first responder and cover a wide range of topics in the process. We had a blast shooting the episode. Hope you enjoy.
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Captain Michael Hopkins has been in the fire service for almost 18 years with the last 4 as a captain on a very busy pumper company. He spent 4 years in the Army before joining the fire service. He holds a bachelors degree in fire science and multiple FEMA certifications.
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David R. Strother LSCSW/LCSW Owner/Lead Clinician
David Strother is a United States Marine Corps veteran, turned firefighter, turned Psychotherapist. He has been working in the mental health field since the early 2000's and has held a host of behavioral health positions. David was deployed to Kandahar, Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom and received several commendations and and an honorable discharge at the completion of his duty. He also served as a firefighter for the City of Lee's Summit where he spent 6 years serving members of that community. David received his B.S, in Social Psychology from Park University and graduated from University of Kansas with his MSW and currently holds a clinical license in several states He has a penchant for "plain speaking" and is passionate and knowledgeable about helping others.
David specializes in the treatment of trauma and stress related disorders and due to his unique background has high treatment compatibility with service connected individuals (military, veteran, first responder) as well as those who haven't served.
David has helmed two successful inpatient programs and provided direct services to over a thousand people in the last decade.
www.thevaliantmind.org
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In this episode Chris, James, and Jeremy talk about staffing shortages and issues with fire departments, police departments and hospitals during this wave of the pandemic.
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In this episode Joey Clevenger returns to talk about the worst call that he has had on the fire department, the after effects and the importance of getting the help you need to move forward and continue to do the job.
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Tyler Moss is a 3 year veteran of law enforcement in a large metro department. Last year he was shot in the line of duty in the head. He tells us his story and talks about the ups and downs of his recovery and what his plans are for the future. I hope you enjoy this episode as much as we did.
@tmossrecovery2020
FB tyler steele
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
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On this episode we talk with Bret Cortright and Mike Delaney of War Horses for Veterans. We get to hear their stories and how they came to be involved with the program.
Bret is the Director of Operations. He is a 12 year veteran of law enforcement and is a former wheel officer. (motorcycle cop)
Mike is a 16 year veteran of law enforcement from a large metro department and was medically retired in 2021.
If you want to know more about their program check out their social media here...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UygdULfbM6o
@wh4vets
www.whfv.org
Bret Cortright
Bret@whfv.org
Mike Delaney
Mike@whfv.org
@mike_d_whfv
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
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This is the conclusion of the episode from last week with guest Rachel Willoughby Greene.
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
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On this episode we are joined by my wife Rachel Willoughby Greene, and we talk about our relationship both before and after everything happened and how we navigated it. I hope you enjoy.
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
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In this episode Chris, James and I talk about the challenges of being a firefighter around the Thanksgiving and Christmas season. Of course we get off topic several times but it is a great episode. Hope you enjoy it.
#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
Today we talk with retired fire captain Chris Wallace. Chris spent more than 34 years on the job with over 27 of those as a captain. His father and great grandfather were also firefighters so you could say he was born in to it. We had a great time shooting this episode. hope you enjoy it. thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
On this episode Dana Johnson returns to the show and we had a great conversation. We covered a variety of subjects. I hope you enjoy listening to it as much as we enjoyed making it.
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
On this episode Zach poe returns to give us an update on his guide service for the upcoming hunting season and some projects that he has going on. We had a great time making this episode. Hope you enjoy.
https://www.instagram.com/raining_steel_waterfowl
https://www.facebook.com/RainingSteelWaterfowl/
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Scott has been in law enforcement for almost 20 years with the last 12.5 years has been with the k-9 unit. We have a great conversation. Hope you enjoy.
#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Ray in his own words:
When I joined the Armed Forces in 2006 I wanted to fight on the physical battlefields amidst the fog and friction of war, and over the last 10 years I’ve been able to deliver weapons from the skies above those physical battlefields with lethal precision. But in 2019 the long awaited dream of being a pilot halted and has come to an end, and I was exposed to another battlefield I knew existed but severely under estimated. A warfare that impacts 100% of our armed forces, first responders, and general population, not just those coveted few who kick in doors, and engage the enemy seeing the whites of their eyes. A warfare afoot the emotional battlefield amidst the fog and friction of our hearts. The fight against social pressures, social conformity, finances, bills, debt, addictions, personal and interpersonal relationships, etc. This is our fight.
My purpose in life is to now become just as lethal in the fight against hopelessness, anxiety, depression, etc. on the spiritual battlefield, while taking the principles of conventional warfare and target prosecution I previously learned and deliver hope, and encouragement with the same surgical precision as I learned when weaponeering ordnance to release from my aircraft.
I’m not interested in learning how to save lives…..I’m INVESTED.
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
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Joey Clevenger a firefighter for the past 8 years. He enjoys spending time with his family and streaming video games. Joey got into firefighting due to his love of helping people and being there in times of need. For the last 2 years he has been streaming video games with the hopes of providing entertainment and a place of positivity for his viewers. Joey got into gaming as a kid. He now plays for the relaxation and enjoyment the stories and competition bring him. You can follow him on
Facebook gaming: @Evenger
Instagram: @evengergames
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Adam James has been a lifelong resident of Missouri, Adam attended St. Paul’s Episcopal Day School and Paseo Academy of Fine and Performing Arts. Adam attended Park University with an emphasis on public relations and broadcasting but reprioritized his career path after the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.
Adam began the Fire Academy in July of 2003, following his father’s footsteps to become a Fire Fighter. While training at the academy, Adam suffered a serious injury, resulting in a shortened career after spinal fusion surgery in 2016. During his time with the Fire Department, he served as a Business Agent for IAFF Local , coordinating communications with local and national media outlets for the union’s leadership.
After entering into early retirement, Adam found himself lost and disconnected from the firefighter brotherhood. This period of reflection and discernment allowed for Adam to reconnect with his faith and realize God’s calling for him to live out servanthood as a deacon in the Episcopal Church. In 2020, Adam entered Bishop Kemper School for Ministry in Topeka, Kansas, as a postulant for Holy Orders to the Diaconate.
During the summer of 2021, while completing numerous requirements for ordination, Adam was admitted to Saint Luke’s Health System’s Clinical Pastoral Education program as a chaplain intern. Spending 100 clinical hours achieving Level I CPE certification, Adam found himself called back to his firefighter experience many times in several intense occurrences with people in crisis. Among the many patients in need, Adam provided care to several front-line workers in a clinical ministerial setting.
As Adam completes his final year of seminary, he has experienced God’s calling to engage his future diaconal ministry by developing awareness and ministry programs for first responder spiritual wellness, specifically firefighters, both active and retired.
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
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In this episode of the podcast Chris and Jeremy explore a wide range of topics from survivors guilt to Saturday morning cartoons of their youth. Its all over the place but it was fun. Hope you enjoy.
#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
On this episode we talk with Dr. Tyler Haas. Dr. Haas is an emergency room doctor and assistant medical director of a large metro fire department. We have a great conversation about his time as a corpsman and the stressors of the current pandemic on ER personnel.
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Today we talk to returning guests Doug and Darrin Niemeier and we cover a variety of topics. We had a great time making this episode and hope you will enjoy it as well and take some valuable information from it.
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Today our guest is Battalion Chief Chris Roark. He has been in the fire service for 20 years and holds multiple degrees related to the industry. We have a great conversation about leadership and making sure your people are fit for duty. Hope you enjoy this episode as much as we did making it.
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
This weeks guest is Elliot Alexander. Elliot was born and raised in San Diego California before coming to the midwest for college. He has been a firefighter for 17 years in a busy metro fire department. He has a degree in criminal justice as well. We talk about station life and a variety of other topics. Hope you enjoy.
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
In this episode we have James Kelly returning to the show. We talk about race in the fire service and being a leader. I hope you enjoy this episode as much as we did making it.
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
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In this episode we talk to Matt Lanio, a 10yr veteran of the fire service. We talk about some of the things he has seen as a medic and some of the injuries he has had. Enjoy.
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
neveralonealwaysforward
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Steve Sanneman is a firefighter/medic who has been involved with the fire service since he was 15 years old. He talks to us about the up and downs of his career and what led him to seek help at the IAFF Center of Excellence treatment facility. Hope you enjoy.
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Rich Longwith is a 20 year veteran of the fire service. He shares with us his story of how he was able to bounce back from divorce and the deaths of his parents. I hope you enjoy this episode as much as we do.
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
On this episode, we talk with Devin Hales about being an African American Police Officer in today's society. Devin grew up on the south side of Chicago before moving to Kansas. In his words "I wanted to make a difference in the community by helping people that need help and even the ones who say they don’t need help, not just by locking up bad people but also by being a listening ear for the community. Where I grew up Police did not have positive impression on me, or the community and I wanted to change that outlook". I hope you enjoy the episode.
#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Julie is the founder of Horses & Heroes Inc. and a Certified Equine Specialist through
EAGALA and a Designated Military Provider.
At a young age Julie rescued a severely traumatized horse. The experience of his
rehabilitation together with her compassion for those who serve, sparked the mission to
create Horses & Heroes.
Horses & Heroes was incorporated on Oct 13, 2014 and is one of more than 600
certified EAGALA programs worldwide. Back in 2019 Horses & Heroes was granted the
Military Designation which is an achievement in showing their dedication, education and
experience to serve those who serve.
Julie graduated with honors with a BA Human Relations Management degree from Mid
America Nazarene University, is a former owner of Fitness Together, a personal training
franchise, manager of several veterinary hospitals and personal training staff, and spent
fourteen years as a military spouse. Mother of four; two of her three daughters also
served in the United States Marine Corps, and her youngest son received a full
scholarship from the Air Force ROTC to attend KU’s Aeronautic Engineering School fall
2021.
Certifications:
EAGALA Certified Practitioner 2014-Present
EAGALA Certified Military Provider 2020- Present
Certified Heart Math Coach – 2020 Present
Certified QPR Suicide Prevention Trainer – 2019-Present
Former ISSA Certified Trainer, Fitness Nutrition Coach and Exercise Therapist
www.horsesandheroes.org
Facebook @horses&heroes
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
In this episode we talk about the impact on first responders of person on person violence that we see on a daily basis. How it effects us and what we do to cope with it. And James is on his soapbox. (but we all are on this issue) Hope you enjoy.
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
In this episode we dive in to a touchy subject of how to talk to a friend who might be having a problem about giving up their guns for a while. ot everyone is going to agree on this subject but it is an important conversation to have.
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Roosevelt Hampton is a 17 yr veteran of the fire service, as well as a Staff Sgt in the Army National Guard with 2 deployments. We talk candidly about his struggles after coming home and the adversity both physical and mental, that he faced while in college. I hope you enjoy this episode.
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
We continue our conversation from last week and we are joined by James to share his view point.
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In this episode Chris and Jeremy talk about burnout, post traumatic growth and how inspiration can be taken from movie quotes. Hope you enjoy!
NeverAloneAlwaysForward
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Richard Curasi - Colonel, Retired, US Army; Federal Security Director, Retired, DHS/TSA
Richard (Rich) Curasi is a senior executive in intelligence, security, strategic planning, and decision making in the private and public sectors. A builder and leader of high performing organizations, Rich was one of TSA’s original five Federal Security Directors (FSD) to implement the public-private partnership approach to airport security that mixed the strength of government resources with the flexibilities and efficiencies of the commercial sector. For seven years he led the TSA effort in the Western half of a large MidWestern state, responsible for over 750 personnel at six airports from small to large. He remains a respected and sought after SME on transportation security topics as well as on issues of intelligence and overall security. During a military career spanning 30 years and including command of units in the US as well as overseas, Rich also built extensive experience working with the militaries of allied nations, particularly in NE Asia. Rich works hard to give back to the community: A trained and State Certified “Gatekeeper” Suicide Prevention Trainer, a Veterans Treatment Court Mentor, the Senior Military Advisor to the Metropolitan Bar Association’s Military Matters Program – and the only non-attorney to have received the coveted President’s Award - Rich dedicates countless volunteer hours to activities that contribute to the survival, health, and welfare of our Serving Military, our Veterans, and their Families.
#NeverAloneAlwaysForward
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
www.theswel.org
***Rob Sanderson is a retired Police Sergeant with 18 years of service and commitment to excellence. He possesses a strong background in law enforcement ranging from undercover operations to patrol supervision. He is an experienced First Responder with demonstrated supervisory and leadership skills.
Rob earned his bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University in Corpus Christi in 2002. In May of 2003 he graduated from the Mississippi Police Corps Academy and began his career in law enforcement with the Harrison County Sheriff’s Department in Gulfport, MS. Four years later, Rob transferred to the Lenexa Kansas Police Department where he served nearly 15 years prior to enduring a career-ending injury. In 2020, he completed his Public Manager’s Certification through the University of Kansas.
Rob founded SWEL in 2020 with a group of like-minded veterans and first responders in order to fill a void in those communities. That void is options for positive outlets to aid in the processing of cumulative and acute traumas our nation’s heroes overcome in their career. Decompress, disconnect and reinvigorate!***Facebook and Instagram: @theswelmission
NerverAloneAlwaysForward
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
In this episode we talk about post traumatic growth. It seems like most of the conversation about mental health is about pts or ptsd but no one really talks about the healing of coming out the other side. We try to shed some light on that. #neveralonealwaysforward thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Jeremy Greene has been a firefighter for 17 years. We talk about his issues and struggles and why we started this podcast.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
This week We talk to Asley Wilson, A 3 year veteran of law enforcement about mental health, things she has seen on the job and being the mother of 5 biracial children.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
David Quintero has spent 16 years as a Marine Reservist, with over 8 years of active service. He is also a career firefighter in a large metropolitan fire department with 12 years of service. He has been involved in the peer support program for over 3 years. #Neveralonealwaysforward thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
James Kelley is a 17 veteran of the Fire Service. He promoted to the rank of Fire Captain in June of 2018 and is now the District Safety Officer for the Battalion he works in. He received his Associates Degree in Fire Science from Blue River Community College back in 2012 and is currently working towards his Public Administrations Degree in Fire Management from Park University as well as his Fire Instructor I certification through the Missouri Department of Fire Services. #Neveralonealwaysforward thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Dr. Carney is a graduate of the UMKC School of Medicine’s BA/MD program and completed her Emergency Medicine Residency as a Chief Resident at Truman Medical Center / UMKC SOM. She then completed an EMS Fellowship at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, MO, and subsequently returned to Kansas City, MO as a double board-certified EM and EMS Physician. Dr. Carney currently practices as a staff physician in the Emergency Department at Truman Medical Center - Hospital Hill / UMKC SOM. She serves as the EMS Medical Director for the City of Kansas City, Missouri, Region A, Central Jackson County Fire Protection District, the UMKC EMS Education System, and the Kansas City Zoo. Her hobbies outside of work include sports, playing ukulele, and spending time with her family and friends.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Greg Taylor is a Battalion Chief in a large metropolitan Fire Department with 31 1/2 years of service. We talk about the value of respect in leadership and the value of staying mentally fit to lead.
#neveralonealwaysforward
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Daniel Schergen is a 17 year veteran of the fire service. In this episode we talk about some of the things he has been through and what he did to get back on track. Enjoy.
#neveralonealwaysforward
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Doug Niemeier is a 25 year veteran of law enforcement. He holds the rank of Major in a large metropolitan police department. In this episode we talk about everything from mental health to leadership. Enjoy.
#neveralonealwaysforward
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Today we talk about expectations and letting things go in regard to mental health treatment and recovery in the fire service. thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
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In this episode James, Chris and I talk about positive changes we have seen in the fire service regarding mental health and my lack of a tan. Enjoy.
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Dana Johnson
· 23 year veteran police officer
o Dana has been in the Research and Development Division as a project officer writing policies for the last 16 years.
o As a policy writer my main goal is to take what the legal department needs to keep the department out of liability and make it understandable for the members of the department.
o Accomplishments include numerous violent crime arrests, taught critical incident training (NIMS and ICS) for 2 years, received the marksman award, physical fitness award too many times to count, several official letters of commendation, letters of appreciation, etc.
o Loves to mentor new recruits and women when they come onto the department.
o Would like to move into Recruitment for the Department when the budget is better.
· Outside of work
o Grew up in a small town in Iowa.
o Volunteered for a couple non-profits. Veterans4Life Chapter Chairperson where I met Jeremy and Rachel and also currently sitting as the Board Secretary for Youth RISE (a non-profit that serves at-risk youth)
o Avid health and fitness person. Just started training for the Bike MS in September. Will complete my 4th century ride (100 miles) with Team Biscari Brothers. In 2019 we raised $65,000 estimated for MS Society for research to help cure MS one day.
o Divorced mom of two, one still in school and one in college.
o Currently working to attain my bachelor’s degree in Business Administration - Human Resource Management.
o Hopefully in the next year and a half will be starting a Doctorate of Physical Therapy program to attain a doctorate degree and then retire and start my own practice.
· Fun Facts
o I don’t eat donuts as often as one would think
o I crochet
o DIY’er-remodeled/renovated 80% of my own home.
o Love to cook
o Can sew…
o I was once locked in a trunk of a vehicle in the middle of July with my older brother and almost died.
o My older brother put me and my younger brother in the dryer and turned it on. Funny when you aren’t the one in the dryer….
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Zach Poe who is a 12 year Marine Corps Veteran with multiple deployments all over the world. This includes several Combat Deployments and Bi Lateral Training Deployments. Zach is currently working as a Full Time Waterfowl Guide and in the process of starting his own Guide Service. He has helped establish The Fallen Outdoors Team North Carolina, which is a Veteran Non Profit organization that concentrates on connecting Vets through the Outdoors. He has also worked with several other organizations to help get Veterans outdoors participating in activities like hunting and fishing.
Https://www.facebook.com/zach.poe.988
Https://www.instagram.com/poepoe_90
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
There is a stigma in the fire service, military, and police about mental health and seeking help. We explore those issue's in this podcast. We are supposed to be a family and look out for one another and it's about time that we step up and practice what we preach. thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com National Suicide Prevention Hotline 1 800 273 8255 www.veteranscrisisline.net #NeverAloneAlwaysForward
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Rachel L. Willoughby Greene, MS, LPC, LCPC, NCC is Licensed Counselor and the wife of our host Jeremy Greene. She is the Clinical Director of Horses & Heroes Inc, and runs a private practice where she offers counseling, Equine-Assisted Psychotherapy, and EMDR specializing in Trauma and Stress with a special focus on Veterans, First Responders, and their spouses. She is passionate about enhancing her own understanding of and spreading the word on mental health and wellness and ending stigmas for these populations. Together she and Jeremy created RESTORE, 7 steps to Restoring and Maintaining mental wellness.
Instagram @#teamrestorekc
thewashdownpodcast@gmail.com
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Darrin Niemeier is a 23 year veteran of the Fire Service. He talks with us about how he recovered from losing his daughter, surviving cancer, going through a divorce and how he found his passion for training search and rescue/cadaver dogs. You can find him on facebook and instagram @stormk9solutions and Sadie_Jo_Nemo. His story is powerful. www.thecompassionatefriendsfw.com
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Chris Anderson is a 20+ year veteran firefighter/paramedic who was severely injured in a building collapse that injured another and took the lives of two other firefighters. He talks about recovering physically and mentally from that incident and the toll that it took on him.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
On this episode of The Washdown, Brian Paul, the founder and ceo of Veterens for Life USA stops by and talks about his own personal journey as a firefighter and soldier and his battle with addiction and PTSD and his foundation and new mission.
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app
Retired Master Sgt. Floyd "Bart" Howell talks with us about his 20 years in the army Special Forces and the struggles he has faced since he got retired.
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In this episode Forensic/SANE nurse Jeanne Brown shares with us what that job entails and some of the challenges she has faced in that career field.
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In this episode Registered nurse Erin Zilliox talks with us about being a nurse in New York at the beginning of the pandemic and the challenges she faced there and after.
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In this episode James Moran is our guest and talks about the issues he had growing up after his mother's death and becoming a firefighter/paramedic.
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This is an introduction to our podcast. Today Chris shares a little of his story about being a Firefighter/paramedic, and the challenges he has faced.
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