Contacts
Info
The Burnt Out Podcast shares stories of firefighters, emergency medical personnel, and other first responders around the world, to create a pathway to save lives.
Transcribed
27 OCT 2024 · In this episode of the Burnout Podcast, host Skip O interviews Pete Lewin, a retired paramedic who has dedicated his life to helping others through the unique bond between humans and dogs. Pete shares his journey from being a paramedic to using his Newfoundland dogs for emotional support and rescue work, particularly focusing on mental health for first responders and children with disabilities. He recounts personal experiences that shaped his advocacy for water safety and the therapeutic benefits of swimming with dogs. The conversation highlights the importance of community support, recognition of mental health struggles, and the transformative power of canine companionship.
Takeaways
- Pete Lewin is a retired paramedic with a passion for helping others.
- He uses Newfoundland dogs for emotional support and rescue work.
- Personal experiences, including a near-drowning, shaped his advocacy for water safety.
- Swimming with dogs has therapeutic benefits for mental health.
- Pete's work has gained recognition, including winning the hero dog of the year at Crufts.
- Community support is vital for mental health initiatives.
- The bond between humans and dogs can be life-changing.
- Pete encourages open conversations about mental health struggles.
- He emphasizes the importance of not keeping feelings to oneself.
- The team behind Pete's work is crucial for its success.
PLEASE SUPPORT THIS PODCAST BY TAKING A LOOK AT OUR SPONSORS
- Throttle & Thrive First Responder Addiction Recovery: https://throttleandthrive.com/
- AdvoCast: https://advocast.media
PODCAST WEBSITE:
- https://burntoutpodcast.org
BURNT OUT CREW:
- Host: Skip O
- Mental Health Minute: Melissa H
- Sunday Support Zoom Meeting Facilitator: Jeff D
- Bonus Episode Host: Capt. Chuck Bray
- Executive Producer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnpneal
- Brought to you by https://advocast.media
EPISODE HASHTAGS:
#firefighter #firstresponder #ems #emt #police #lawenforcement #military #trauma #mentalhealth #USMC #military
Transcribed
20 OCT 2024 · In this episode, host Skip O interviews Norm Robillard, a former paramedic and current nonprofit leader, about his journey in emergency services and the importance of mental health awareness for first responders. Norm shares his experiences, the challenges faced by those in the field, and the initiatives he is leading to support mental health, including an upcoming cycling event aimed at reducing stigma and promoting healthy habits. The conversation emphasizes the need for community support, self-care, and kindness among first responders.
Takeaways - Norm Robillard transitioned from a 36-year career as a paramedic to leading a nonprofit focused on mental health.
 - The importance of community support and giving back to others is emphasized throughout Norm's journey.
 - Mental health awareness is crucial for first responders, who often face unique challenges in their roles.
 - Norm's organization, 'The Human Behind the Responder,' aims to educate and support first responders regarding mental health.
 - Volunteering and coaching have been significant ways for Norm to stay grounded and give back to the community.
 - The concept of a 'mental health toolbox' is introduced, highlighting various self-care strategies for first responders.
 - Norm's upcoming cycling event aims to promote mental health awareness and reduce stigma in the first responder community.
-Â The conversation stresses the importance of kindness and support among first responders during challenging times.
 - Norm encourages prioritizing self-care and making mental health a priority in the demanding field of emergency services.
 - Gratitude is highlighted as a key element in overcoming tough days and maintaining a positive outlook.
https://www.thehumanbehindtheresponder.com/
Sound Bites
- "It's okay to not be okay."
- "Movement is medicine."
- "We need to be more kind to one another."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Burnout Podcast and Sponsorship
01:09 Meet Norm Robillard: A Journey from Paramedic to Nonprofit Leader
03:04 Reflections on a 36-Year Career in Emergency Services
05:00 Inspiration Behind Becoming a Paramedic
09:23 The Importance of Giving Back and Community Support
11:19 The Human Behind the Responder: Mental Health Awareness
15:35 Understanding the Mental Health Toolbox
19:58 Challenges in the First Responder Community
21:26 Capital to Capital: A Journey for Mental Health Advocacy
29:29 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for First Responders
PLEASE SUPPORT THIS PODCAST BY TAKING A LOOK AT OUR SPONSORS
- Throttle & Thrive First Responder Addiction Recovery: https://throttleandthrive.com/
- AdvoCast: https://advocast.media
PODCAST WEBSITE:
- https://burntoutpodcast.org
BURNT OUT CREW:
- Host: Skip O
- Mental Health Minute: Melissa H
- Sunday Support Zoom Meeting Facilitator: Jeff D
- Bonus Episode Host: Capt. Chuck Bray
- Executive Producer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnpneal
- Brought to you by https://advocast.media
EPISODE HASHTAGS:
#firefighter #firstresponder #ems #emt #police #lawenforcement #military #trauma #mentalhealth #USMC #military
Transcribed
13 OCT 2024 · In this episode of the Burnout Podcast, host Skip O welcomes Warren Hubbell, a dedicated first responder and mission worker. They discuss Warren's experiences in Africa, the living conditions of orphans, and the importance of service and spirituality in their lives. The conversation highlights the need for support and processing trauma, especially for first responders. Warren shares his insights on hope, encouragement, and the significance of finding someone to talk to during tough times. The episode concludes with resources for support and a reminder of the importance of serving others.
Warren's Bio
Warren Hubble is 61 years old and spent his life in Madison County, Indiana. He worked 1 year after High School then attended IUPUI for one year, trying to figure out his path. After this, he landed in the cleaning supply industry. It's there he was reintroduced to God. Warren spent the next 30 years in this industry working from driver to operations manager with the last 15 in sales.Â
God began stirring in his spirit about 12 years ago. He's always had a servant's heart and was finally getting his calling. The last 10 years, Warren served with Horizon International caring for African orphans. Sponsorship and short term mission trips, Go Teams, are his main focus. He also volunteer locally as needed, not with any specific organizationÂ
Warren spent 20 years playing competitive Fastpitch softball around the country and is now chasing a much smaller ball around in a golf cart.Â
Takeaways
- Warren has a servant's heart and has been involved in mission work for over 12 years.
- Living conditions in Africa can be dire, with many orphans lacking basic necessities.
- Service is not limited to one location; there is need everywhere.
- Spirituality plays a crucial role in coping with trauma and serving others.
- First responders often need support to process their experiences and emotions.
- Finding someone to talk to is essential for healing and moving forward.
- Gratitude for what we have can help combat feelings of entitlement.
- Warren emphasizes the importance of free will in understanding suffering.
- Hope and encouragement are vital for those struggling with trauma or loss.
- Serving others can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
Sound Bites
- "You suit up and show up."
- "There's need all over the world."
- "It's not either or."
PLEASE SUPPORT THIS PODCAST BY TAKING A LOOK AT OUR SPONSORS
- Throttle & Thrive First Responder Addiction Recovery: https://throttleandthrive.com/
- AdvoCast: https://advocast.media
PODCAST WEBSITE:
- https://burntoutpodcast.org
BURNT OUT CREW:
- Host: Skip O
- Mental Health Minute: Melissa H
- Sunday Support Zoom Meeting Facilitator: Jeff D
- Bonus Episode Host: Capt. Chuck Bray
- Executive Producer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnpneal
- Brought to you by https://advocast.media
EPISODE HASHTAGS:
#firefighter #firstresponder #ems #emt #police #lawenforcement #military #trauma #mentalhealth #USMC #military
Chapters
00:00Introduction to the Burnout Podcast and Sponsorship
02:10Warren's Background and Mission Work
05:59Experiences in Africa: Living Conditions and Challenges
12:10The Importance of Service and Spirituality
17:55Processing Trauma and Finding Support
23:53Hope and Encouragement for First Responders
27:00Conclusion and Resources for Support
Transcribed
7 OCT 2024 · In this episode of the Burnout Podcast, host Skip-O and guest Daniel Norris discuss the challenges faced by first responders, including PTSD and alcoholism. Daniel shares his journey from military service to becoming an EMT, detailing his struggles with mental health and the importance of community support. The conversation emphasizes the significance of sharing personal stories to help others and the strength found in vulnerability. Daniel also talks about his involvement in various organizations and his plans for future adventures, including a fundraising hike in Scotland.
Daniel was born and raised in Southern Maryland. He is about to hit the big 37 on October 23rd. Upon graduating High School in 2006, Daniel went straight into the United States Marine Corps Reserves where he enlisted as a Combat Engineer and was "stationed" at 4th Combat Engineer Batallion in Baltimore.
During his time in the Corps, Daniel also became a first responder. He earned his Maryland Emergency Medical Technician certification in December 2010. He reached the end of his service contract with USMC in 2014, being honorably discharged at the rank of Corporal. Throughout his life I have struggled with ADHD, depression, anger, and suicidal thoughts. He was recently diagnosed with PTSD.
Daniel is serving as a volunteer with multiple veteran related organizations... Mission 22, Americas Mighty Warriors, Team Rubicon, Foundation 4 Heroes, and most recently the Travis Manion Foundation. He lives to serve and give back to his community and others. He thrives on it.
Outside of work and his volunteer efforts, Daniel enjoys hunting, fishing, baseball, playing church league softball, playing rugby (Patuxent River Rugby), football, photography, etc.
Takeaways
- Daniel Norris shares his journey from military service to becoming an EMT.
- He discusses the struggles he faced with PTSD and alcoholism.
- The importance of community support and finding purpose after service is emphasized.
- Daniel highlights the significance of sharing personal stories to help others.
- He reflects on the challenges of maintaining sobriety during difficult times.
- The conversation touches on the idea that reaching out for help is a sign of strength.
- Daniel's involvement in various organizations showcases his commitment to service.
- The podcast encourages listeners to seek help and support when needed.
- Daniel's life verse, Philippians 4:13, has been a source of strength for him.
- The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to connect and share their stories.
Sound Bites
- "You're not alone because you have support."
- "It's an absolute sign of strength to reach out for help."
- "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
PLEASE SUPPORT THIS PODCAST BY TAKING A LOOK AT OUR SPONSORS
- Throttle & Thrive First Responder Addiction Recovery: https://throttleandthrive.com/
- MyPodcast.Media: https://ShawnPNeal.com
PODCAST WEBSITE:
- https://burntoutpodcast.org
BURNT OUT CREW:
- Host: Skip O
- Mental Health Minute: Melissa H
- Sunday Support Zoom Meeting Facilitator: Jeff D
- Bonus Episode Host: Capt. Chuck Bray
- Executive Producer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnpneal
- https://mypodcast.media
EPISODE HASHTAGS:
#firefighter #firstresponder #ems #emt #police #lawenforcement #military #trauma #mentalhealth #USMC #military
Transcribed
29 SEP 2024 · In this episode of The Burnout Podcast, Skip O shares his transformative journey of walking 192 miles from St. B's UK to Robin Hood's Bay to raise awareness for mental health and suicide prevention among first responders. He recounts the challenges faced during the hike, the connections made with fellow walkers, and the profound impact of community support. Skip emphasizes the importance of reaching out for help and the shared experiences that unite individuals in their struggles, ultimately highlighting that no one is alone in their journey.
Takeaways
- The walk was a journey of connection and inspiration.
- Mental health awareness is crucial for first responders.
- Community support plays a vital role in recovery.
- Facing challenges can lead to personal growth.
- It's important to reach out and not feel alone.
- Every individual has a story that can inspire others.
- The power of music can uplift and unite people.
- Emotions and trauma are universal experiences.
- Spiritual moments can provide profound clarity.
- Teamwork and support are essential in overcoming obstacles.
PLEASE SUPPORT THIS PODCAST BY TAKING A LOOK AT OUR SPONSORS
- Throttle & Thrive First Responder Addiction Recovery: https://throttleandthrive.com/
- MyPodcast.Media: https://ShawnPNeal.com
PODCAST WEBSITE:
- https://burntoutpodcast.org
BURNT OUT CREW:
- Host: Skip O
- Mental Health Minute: Melissa H
- Sunday Support Zoom Meeting Facilitator: Jeff D
- Bonus Episode Host: Capt. Chuck Bray
- Executive Producer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnpneal
- https://mypodcast.media
EPISODE HASHTAGS:
#firefighter #firstresponder #ems #emt #police #lawenforcement #military #trauma #mentalhealth #USMC #military
Transcribed
22 SEP 2024 · In this episode, Skip O and Christina Cesnik discuss the importance of peer support for families of firefighters. Christina shares her experiences in creating the Fire Family Peer Support group, emphasizing the need for a safe space for families to connect and share their experiences. They explore the role of chaplains in providing support during difficult times, the significance of mental health and self-care, and the importance of building community connections. The conversation also highlights the need for diversity and inclusion within the firefighting community and the importance of organizing family-friendly events. Christina stresses the importance of confidentiality and trust in peer support, concluding with resources available for those seeking help.
Takeaways
- Firefighter families need support just as much as the firefighters themselves.
- Creating a community for families helps them cope with the unique challenges they face.
- Mental health and self-care are crucial for both firefighters and their families.
- Chaplains play a vital role in providing support during emergencies.
- Building connections within the community can help alleviate feelings of isolation.
- Diversity and inclusion are essential in peer support groups.
- Family-friendly events foster connections and support among families.
- Confidentiality is key in peer support to build trust.
- It's important to have resources available for those in need of help.
- Peer support can be a lifeline for families dealing with trauma.
Sound Bites
- "We wanted to create a group for families."
- "Families are just as married to the fire department."
- "It's good for you to have that peer support."
PLEASE SUPPORT THIS PODCAST BY TAKING A LOOK AT OUR SPONSORS
- Throttle & Thrive First Responder Addiction Recovery: https://throttleandthrive.com/
- AdvoCast: https://advocast.media
PODCAST WEBSITE:
- https://burntoutpodcast.org
BURNT OUT CREW:
- Host: Skip O
- Mental Health Minute: Melissa H
- Sunday Support Zoom Meeting Facilitator: Jeff D
- Bonus Episode Host: Capt. Chuck Bray
- Executive Producer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnpneal
- https://mypodcast.media
EPISODE HASHTAGS:
#firefighter #firstresponder #ems #emt #police #lawenforcement #military #trauma #mentalhealth #USMC #military
Transcribed
8 SEP 2024 · In this conversation, the Skip O, Jeff D, and Steve discuss the topic of mental health and the stigma surrounding it. They explore why people may be afraid to approach the topic and offer insights on how to recognize signs of mental health issues and ask direct questions to offer support. The hosts also share their personal experiences with addiction and mental health struggles, highlighting the importance of seeking help and offering support to others. They discuss the role of spirituality in their lives and how it has helped them navigate difficult times. The conversation ends with messages of encouragement and the reminder to take care of oneself.
mental health, stigma, signs, support, addiction, spirituality, encouragement
Takeaways
- Recognizing signs of mental health issues and asking direct questions can help offer support to those in need.
- Personal experiences with addiction and mental health struggles can provide insights and empathy when helping others.
- Spirituality can play a role in finding peace and guidance during difficult times.
- Taking care of oneself is essential in order to effectively support and help others.
Sound Bites
- "You're worth it. You're loved. You're loved by somebody."
- "Doesn't matter who you used to be, what matters is who you decide to be today."
- "There's always a light at the end of the tunnel. Just have to get through the tunnel."
PLEASE SUPPORT THIS PODCAST BY TAKING A LOOK AT OUR SPONSORS
- Throttle & Thrive First Responder Addiction Recovery: https://throttleandthrive.com/
- MyPodcast.Media: https://ShawnPNeal.com
PODCAST WEBSITE:
- https://burntoutpodcast.org
BURNT OUT CREW:
- Host: Skip O
- Mental Health Minute: Melissa H
- Sunday Support Zoom Meeting Facilitator: Jeff D
- Bonus Episode Host: Capt. Chuck Bray
- Executive Producer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnpneal
- https://mypodcast.media
EPISODE HASHTAGS:
#firefighter #firstresponder #ems #emt #police #lawenforcement #military #trauma #mentalhealth #USMC #military
Transcribed
1 SEP 2024 · Jared and Hannah Norton, founders of Restoration Farms, discuss their nonprofit ministry that focuses on helping first responders with their mental health. Jared shares his personal experience with a mental health crisis and PTSD, and how it affected their marriage and family. They talk about the challenges they faced in finding help and support, including their experience with the healthcare system and the lack of available resources. They also discuss the importance of sleep, the shame and guilt associated with mental health struggles, and the need for specialized therapy for first responders. The conversation ends with their journey to finding help through Samaritan's Purse's Operation Heal Our Patriots program. Jared and Hannah Norton discuss their experience with trauma and the healing process through EMDR therapy. They emphasize the importance of addressing and processing emotions and traumas to find healing and hope. They also share their vision for Restoration Farms, a ministry that aims to provide mental health resiliency training, peer support, and retreats for first responders and their families.
Takeaways
- Restoration Farms is a nonprofit ministry that focuses on helping first responders with their mental health.
- Jared Norton shares his personal experience with a mental health crisis and PTSD, and how it affected their marriage and family.
- The Nortons faced challenges in finding help and support, including the lack of available resources and the limitations of the healthcare system.
- Specialized therapy, such as EMDR, is important for first responders to address trauma and mental health issues.
- Samaritan's Purse's Operation Heal Our Patriots program provided the Nortons with the help and support they needed. EMDR therapy can be a powerful tool for turning down the volume of emotions and engaging with traumas
- Addressing and processing emotions and traumas is essential for healing and finding hope
- Community and peer support are crucial in the healing journey
- Faith and spirituality can provide a source of strength and hope
- Restoration Farms aims to provide mental health resiliency training, peer support, and retreats for first responders and their families
Sound Bites
- "We are the founders of Restoration Farms and it's a nonprofit ministry. just starting to help first responders with their mental health."
- "In 2019, I went through a really serious mental health crisis. I'm a 17 year firefighter. So pretty much all of our, our marriage, I've been a firefighter, uh, been full time for 13 years working as a paramedic firefighter in a pretty busy nine one system in Indiana."
- "I dealt with shame a ton. I think in the first responder culture, we're people who do things, we're people who rescue other people. And we also live with kind of a mentality that says, have no needs, right?"
- "I did five days of intensive EMDR therapy... And it was really pretty brutal because I had like 35 years of stuff that I just had pushed down."
- "I had created such a wall of horrific fear between myself and those parts of my heart that I couldn't engage with them at all."
- "I got some basic skills of how to deal with anger... I really was angry about a lot of things, especially like the injustices you see in the world."
PLEASE SUPPORT THIS PODCAST BY TAKING A LOOK AT OUR SPONSORS
- Throttle & Thrive First Responder Addiction Recovery: https://throttleandthrive.com/
- MyPodcast.Media: https://ShawnPNeal.com
PODCAST WEBSITE:
- https://burntoutpodcast.org
BURNT OUT CREW:
- Host: Skip O
- Mental Health Minute: Melissa H
- Sunday Support Zoom Meeting Facilitator: Jeff D
- Bonus Episode Host: Capt. Chuck Bray
- Executive Producer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnpneal
- https://mypodcast.media
EPISODE HASHTAGS:
#firefighter #firstresponder #ems #emt #police #lawenforcement #military #trauma #mentalhealth #USMC #military
Transcribed
24 AUG 2024 · In this conversation, Skip O and Ciaran discuss Ciaran's experience with mental health and his involvement with Pete Lewin Newfoundlands, a charity that provides emotional support swims for first responders and young people. Ciaran shares his struggles with dyslexia and neurodiversity during his time as a police officer, as well as his recent personal crisis. He emphasizes the importance of seeking help and support, and shares the phrase that resonates with him: 'If you're going through hell, keep going.'
Takeaways
- Seeking help and support is crucial when going through mental health challenges.
- Sharing your story and experiences can help others who may be going through similar struggles.
- Participating in activities like emotional support swims can provide comfort and healing.
- Having a support system and a strong network of friends and family is essential in overcoming difficult times.
- The phrase 'If you're going through hell, keep going' can serve as a reminder to persevere and not give up.
Sound Bites
- "If you're going through hell, keep going."
PLEASE SUPPORT THIS PODCAST BY TAKING A LOOK AT OUR SPONSORS
- Throttle & Thrive First Responder Addiction Recovery: https://throttleandthrive.com/
- MyPodcast.Media: https://ShawnPNeal.com
PODCAST WEBSITE:
- https://burntoutpodcast.org
BURNT OUT CREW:
- Host: Skip O
- Mental Health Minute: Melissa H
- Sunday Support Zoom Meeting Facilitator: Jeff D
- Bonus Episode Host: Capt. Chuck Bray
- Executive Producer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnpneal
- https://mypodcast.media
EPISODE HASHTAGS:
#firefighter #firstresponder #ems #emt #police #lawenforcement #military #trauma #mentalhealth #USMC #military
Transcribed
18 AUG 2024 · Morgan Englund, a former firefighter and paramedic, shares his experience with burnout and his journey to healing. He discusses the toxic culture within the first responder community and the need for vulnerability and support. Morgan also talks about his involvement in public speaking and sound meditation as tools for healing. The conversation emphasizes the importance of reaching out for help and the power of connecting with others who have similar experiences.
"We're human beings. We're not firemen. We're susceptible to disease, injury, mental health issues, all of it, just like everybody else."
PLEASE SUPPORT THIS PODCAST BY TAKING A LOOK AT OUR SPONSORS
- Throttle & Thrive First Responder Addiction Recovery: https://throttleandthrive.com/
- MyPodcast.Media: https://ShawnPNeal.com
PODCAST WEBSITE:
- https://burntoutpodcast.org
BURNT OUT CREW:
- Host: Skip O
- Mental Health Minute: Melissa H
- Sunday Support Zoom Meeting Facilitator: Jeff D
- Bonus Episode Host: Capt. Chuck Bray
- Executive Producer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnpneal
- https://mypodcast.media
EPISODE HASHTAGS:
#firefighter #firstresponder #ems #emt #police #lawenforcement #military #trauma #mentalhealth #USMC #military
The Burnt Out Podcast shares stories of firefighters, emergency medical personnel, and other first responders around the world, to create a pathway to save lives.
Information
| Author | Shawn P. Neal |
| Organization | Executive Producer Shawn P Neal |
| Categories | Mental Health , Documentary , Non-Profit |
| Website | burntoutpodcast.org |
| burntopodcast@gmail.com |
Copyright 2024 - Spreaker Inc. an iHeartMedia Company
