A Duty To Act Jennifer Darling, Josh Darling

Summary
Mike Wisler, a captain at the Everett Fire Department, discusses his transition from counseling to the fire service, the importance of mental and physical health in the first responder service, and his innovative protocols for post-shift recovery. He emphasizes the impact of relationships and the need for a holistic approach to well-being. The conversation covers a wide range of topics related to wellness, recovery, and community building within first responder departments. It explores the importance of solitude, restorative activities, and the creation of a wellness center. The discussion also delves into the physiological and mental benefits of activities like sauna, cold plunges, and cycling, as well as the impact of community involvement on overall well-being.

In this episode of "A Duty to Act," hosts Jennifer and Josh reflect on the impact of their previous episodes, including discussions on cancer in the fire service and secondary traumatic stress. They discuss their goals for the next 25 episodes, which include exploring topics such as lifeguards, smoke jumpers, and tribal EMS. They also delve into the importance of data-driven decision-making and building a culture of data in public safety organizations. Join them on this journey of discovery and insight into the world of emergency services.

In this episode Jennifer talks with her colleague Dan Schwartz about his time as a leader in the fire service and the concept of servant leadership.

Join me, Jennifer Darling, as I sit down with the brave representatives of IAFF Local Number 4 from Des Moines, Iowa—Jason, Aaron, and Joe—to shed light on a topic that hits close to home for every firefighter: the fight against cancer and the battle for comprehensive coverage. Listen in as we explore the critical need to have cancer recognized as a job-related illness, the heartrending personal stories of those affected, and the pressing goal to extend presumptive coverage to all types of cancer for firefighters. Their poignant insights reveal the hard truths about the physical and financial toll this disease takes on those who serve our communities and the current legislative hurdles they face.

In this heartfelt conversation, we honor the memories of fallen firefighters Mike Broderick and Brian Stokes, who left an indelible mark on their community through their dedication and mentorship. You'll hear the moving accounts of their lives, the struggle their families endured, and the continued support they offer to the firefighting community. As we reflect on the legacy left behind by these exceptional individuals, we also delve into the powerful grassroots efforts underway, including impactful video campaigns and social media strategies, which aim to unite firefighters and supporters in a shared mission for change.

Tune in to understand the complex layers of advocacy and the challenges that come with driving legislative change, as seen through the lens of those on the front lines. Our guests open up about the emotional toll of setbacks and the resilience needed to push forward. The episode concludes with a message of unity and action, underscoring the significance of personal engagement in the fire service and the potential for future progress. Discover how these courageous firefighters leverage their collective voices to keep the momentum going, making strides toward better protection and support for those who risk everything to keep us safe.

Pat Ellis, the chaplain for Puget Sound Fire, discusses the topic of secondary traumatic stress. He explains that secondary traumatic stress is the chronic exposure to other people's traumatic experiences and how it impacts the responder's mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical health. Pat also differentiates secondary traumatic stress from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and compassion fatigue. He introduces the concept of vicarious trauma, which is a shift in worldview due to prolonged exposure to trauma. Pat mentions the emerging term of moral injury and its relevance to first responders' mental health. This conversation explores the variability of impact and cumulative effect of grief in the context of traumatic events. It highlights the different reactions individuals may have to these events and the signs of secondary stress to look out for. The importance of supporting others and promoting self-care is emphasized, along with the need to seek help when necessary. The conversation also discusses the importance of preparing for emotional impact and developing daily self-care practices. Finally, it emphasizes the power of positive self-affirmations and choosing positivity and hope in the face of challenging situations.

Ryan Coffey: Navigating the Firefighting Interview Process with Expertise and Empathy

Ryan Coffey brings a wealth of experience from his distinguished career in firefighting and his passion for coaching aspiring firefighters through the rigorous interview process. With over seven years of professional firefighting experience at departments like Everett and the Port of Seattle, Ryan has not only excelled in his field but also paved the way for LGBTQ firefighters. His commitment to diversity, excellence, and mentorship shines through his work, both on the front lines and in his interview coaching business, where he helps candidates transform their aspirations into reality.

In our conversation, we dissect the complexities of the firefighting interview process, offering invaluable insights for those looking to join this noble profession.