Resonant stories to inspire, encourage, and educate.
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Eugene Weaver Podcasts
First Responder Wellness PodcastTM With Conrad Weaver Wellness is not optional. It’s essential. First responders are expected to be strong, calm, and always ready to serve. But behind the badge, many are quietly facing stress, trauma, and burnout—without the support they need to thrive. You shouldn't have to sacrifice your wellness to do the job you love. Hosted by Conrad Weaver—filmmaker, speaker, and passionate advocate for mental health in public safety—the First Responder Wellness Podcas ...
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A discussion of all things obscure cinema related with a side order of horror, fantasy and science fiction
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We dive in the ocean of cinema to find the gems, and bring to light lesser known films from decades past!
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How did race become such a flash point in modern society, and why does it remain contentious in our genomic age? In this first-of-its-kind trans-disciplinary podcast, biological anthropologist Jim Bindon joins with cultural anthropologist Lesley Jo Weaver and historian of science Erik L. Peterson to explore our species centuries' long debates over how to define biological and behavioral difference, and why it continues to matter today. See more about us at: http://speakingofrace.ua.edu/
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101 - Real Surgeons Don't Cry? - with Dr. Marvin Wayne
37:19
37:19
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37:19Schedule a call to host a screening: https://ptsd911movie.com/screenings 101 - Real Surgeons Don't Cry? - with Dr. Marvin Wayne In this episode, Conrad Weaver talks with Dr. Marvin Wayne, a trauma surgeon, Vietnam veteran, and internationally recognized EMS leader. Dr. Wayne shares his remarkable journey—from growing up in Detroit, navigating rejec…
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100 - Part 2: Finding Faith Healing and Purpose with Matty Fiorenza
26:57
26:57
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26:57Episode 100 – Part 2: Finding Faith Healing and Purpose with Matty Fiorenza In part two of our 100th episode celebration, Conrad Weaver reconnects with firefighter Matthew (Matty) Fiorenza, one of the central voices from the documentary PTSD9-1-1. Matty opens up about life since the film’s release—the ups and downs of recovery, his faith journey, b…
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100 - Part 1: Courage and Recovery with Desireé Palmer
31:26
31:26
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31:26Episode 100 – Part 1: Courage and Recovery with Desireé Palmer In this milestone 100th episode of the First Responder Wellness Podcast, host Conrad Weaver reconnects with retired police officer Desireé Palmer, whose powerful story was featured in the award-winning documentary PTSD9-1-1. In the film, Desireé was shown in the middle of her struggle w…
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🎙️ Friday Five with Conrad Weaver A Short Podcast from the First Responder Wellness PodcastTM Welcome to Friday Five with Conrad Weaver — a quick, five-minute boost to wrap up your week with inspiration, insight, and ideas. Each Friday, I’ll share five things that are shaping my world: Projects I’m working on in film, podcasting, and first responde…
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99 - Resilience isn’t a Personality Trait - With Dr. Stephanie Conn
47:39
47:39
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47:39Episode Title: 99 - Resilience isn’t a Personality Trait - With Dr. Stephanie Conn Guest: Dr. Stephanie Conn, PhD, ABPP – Psychologist, Author, Former Officer Host: Conrad Weaver Episode Overview: In this episode, Conrad speaks with Dr. Stephanie Conn, a former police officer and dispatcher turned board-certified psychologist. Dr. Conn shares her i…
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Episode Title: The God Shot: How Dr. Eugene Lipov is Transforming PTSD Treatment Episode Summary: In this episode, Conrad Weaver sits down with Dr. Eugene Lipov, an anesthesiologist, pain specialist, and internationally recognized pioneer in the treatment of post-traumatic stress injury (PTSI). Dr. Lipov explains how a simple five-minute procedure …
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97 - Is Your Check Engine Light On? With Rob Wilson
46:49
46:49
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46:49In this episode of the First Responder Wellness Podcast, host Conrad Weaver welcomes human performance coach Rob Wilson, whose upbringing in a first-responder family shaped his dedication to supporting law enforcement, firefighters, and EMS through wellness. They explore how first responders constantly operate on high-alert biologically, often with…
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Journey On is a story of self-discovery, kindness, and the joys and challenges encountered along life’s journey. In this fictional story, the main character is an old man, unassuming in appearance but rich in wisdom and kindness, who travels the world with only a small backpack and a harmonica for company. Along the old man’s journey, simple encoun…
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96-Using Augmented Reality to Heal PTSD with Dr. Arash Javanbakht
46:14
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46:14In this episode of the First Responder Wellness Podcast, Conrad Weaver has a conversation with Dr. Arash Javanbakht, a leading psychiatrist and trauma researcher. Dr. Javanbakht explains the neurological and emotional roots of trauma and PTSD, particularly among first responders, and shares how cutting-edge augmented reality technology is offering …
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95 - How Dallas PD is Helping Their Officers - Joe King
35:43
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35:43In this episode, host Conrad Weaver has a conversation with Joe King, a 28-year veteran of the Dallas Police Department and one of the driving forces behind their Officer Wellness & Longevity Unit (OWL). Joe opens up about the trauma he experienced during the 2016 Dallas ambush that killed five officers, and how that tragedy became the turning poin…
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94 - I'm Going to Sit With You - Barb Bigalke
37:02
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37:02Episode Title: I'm Going to Sit With You Guest: Barb Bigalke, Founder of the Center for Suicide Awareness Episode Summary: In this deeply impactful conversation, Conrad Weaver speaks with Barb Bigalke, the founder of the Center for Suicide Awareness, about breaking the stigma around suicide and supporting those who are grieving. Barb shares her jou…
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93 - Going Within to Heal with April Chavez
38:17
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38:1793 - Going Within to Heal with April Chavez In this episode of the First Responder Wellness Podcast, host Conrad Weaver has a conversation with April Chavez, a former deputy sheriff turned entrepreneur, educator, and wellness advocate. April shares her remarkable journey from serving in the remote mountains of Colorado with limited backup to becomi…
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92 - Killing Hesitation with Neil Schoepp
38:18
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38:18In this episode, Conrad Weaver talks with Neil Schoepp, a former New York City police officer and firefighter, to discuss how first responders—and anyone—can overcome hesitation and overthinking to live more intentionally and purposefully. Neil shares real-world stories from his time in uniform, the deadly consequences of hesitation, and how he tra…
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91 - Faith: A Foundation for Resilience - with Sgt. Jason Sery
35:58
35:58
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35:5891 - Faith: A Foundation for Resilience - with Sgt. Jason Sery In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Conrad Weaver sits down with veteran police officer Jason Sery, who shares his 26-year journey in law enforcement, his unwavering Christian faith, and the hidden toll that comes with a life in service. Jason opens up about the emotional and …
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90 - Caring for the Caregiver: Preventing Burnout in First Responders with Fran Graham
40:13
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40:1390 - Caring for the Caregiver: Preventing Burnout in First Responders with Fran Graham In this episode, Conrad Weaver talks with crisis response expert and former police officer Fran Graham about trauma care for first responders and disaster survivors. Fran breaks down the essential differences between trauma, PTSD, and moral injury, and explains h…
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89 - Discovering Purpose in Trauma - The Craig DeMartino Story
1:01:19
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1:01:1989 - Discovering Purpose in Trauma - The Craig DeMartino Story You won’t believe this story: Craig DeMartino fell roughly 100 feet in the backcountry, suffered catastrophic injuries—and then amputated his own leg. Doctors didn’t expect him to survive the night. Fast-forward 22 years, and Craig has not only climbed El Capitan five times, including a…
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88 - The Calls Didn't Break Me: Toxic Leadership and It's Toll - with Chief David Rhodes
44:59
44:59
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44:59Show Notes – First Responder Wellness Podcast with Chief David Rhodes Episode Title: The Calls Didn't Break Me: Toxic Leadership and It's Toll - with Chief David Rhodes Episode Summary: In this episode, host Conrad Weaver speaks with Chief David Rhodes—veteran firefighter, editor-in-chief of Fire Engineering Magazine, and VP of Clarion Fire & Rescu…
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Turning Tragedy Into Purpose: Regan Falk’s Story and the Legacy of Kevin Regan Guest: Regan Falk – Founder, Kevin Regan Family Foundation Summary: In this heartfelt and deeply emotional conversation, Conrad talks with Regan Falk, widow of Philadelphia police officer Kevin Regan. Regan shares her family's journey—beginning with Kevin’s dream of beco…
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This fictional story is about two travelers who meet by chance at a lonely campfire. One carries a guitar and the other a harmonica. It is a story about connection, presence, and the enduring memory of music. In their quiet encounter, they discover the power of music, friendship, and valuing the present moment. PDF File for Story Transcription, Son…
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86 - He Survived the Fire - She Fought to Heal the Wounds
35:41
35:41
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35:41Order the PTSD911 Film and Educational Toolkit here and Save 20% through the month of June: https://ptsd911movie.com/toolkit/ 86 - He Survived the Fire - She Fought to Heal the Wounds In this powerful episode of the First Responder Wellness Podcast, host Conrad Weaver speaks with Liz Bartholomew, founder of Responders Retreat in Wisconsin. Liz shar…
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85 - Be Where Your Feet Are with Donald Brucker
39:49
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39:49In Episode 85 of the First Responder Wellness Podcast, Chief Deputy Fire Marshal Don Brucker shares his 39-year journey through the fire service—and the emotional weight that comes with it. From handling fatal fire scenes to the heartbreaking loss of his beloved dogs, Don opens up about the quiet, often ignored toll of first responder work. But thi…
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84 - Physical Health is Mental Health, P. 2 with Samantha Sonnett
37:20
37:20
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37:20Take the quiz to find your perfect trainer and get 14 days of free training here: https://go.trainwell.net/FirstResponderWellness EPISODE SYNOPSIS Retired NYPD officer Samantha Sonnett opens up about her personal journey following her diagnosis with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. She shares how her chronic illness prompted a major lifestyle overhaul, focu…
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"Wings of Friendship" is a fictional tale about journeys, those we take across the world, and those we make within ourselves. It is about the unexpected ways our paths cross, and how, sometimes, two lives traveling alone can become one journey shared. PDF or Flip Book for Story Transcription, Song Lyrics of Episode 017 on the “Cuento Resonante” Pod…
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83 - Physical Health is Mental Health with Samantha Sonnett
38:11
38:11
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38:11🔹 Episode Overview In the first installment of this two-part series, host Conrad Weaver welcomes back Samantha Sonnett, a retired NYPD officer, for an unfiltered and deeply moving conversation about the realities of law enforcement and its long-term impact on wellness. Samantha reflects on her 20+ year career with the NYPD, from patrolling the stre…
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82 - Finding Purpose after the Trauma with Kris O'Neill
41:40
41:40
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41:40Purchase the PTSD911 film for your public safety agency or organization here: https://ptsd911movie.com/toolkit/ QUESTIONS: Please call: 970-306-7799 or send an email to Gary Miller at [email protected] 82 - Finding Purpose after the Trauma with Kris O'Neill 📝 Show Notes Guest: Kris O’Neill Host: Conrad Weaver Podcast: First Responder Well…
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This is the story of Rio, a young man with a longing for freedom. Rio made a bold choice: to let go of everything except what he could carry in a backpack and set out into the unknown. Backpack and a Dream is more than a travel tale; it’s a journey of transformation and kindness. This story is for anyone who has ever felt the urge to wander or ques…
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81 - Keep the Truth Tellers Around You with Dr. Jennifer Prohaska
41:10
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41:10Keep the Truth Tellers Around You with Dr. Jennifer Prohaska This isn’t your typical feel-good chat about mental health. In this brutally honest and refreshingly grounded episode, Dr. Jennifer Prohaska cuts through the fluff with a clear message: we’re focusing on the wrong end of the problem when it comes to wellness in public safety. Dr. Jen expl…
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80 - How to Keep Going, when you Really Want to Quit with Mark Pattison
43:07
43:07
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43:07In this episode of the First Responder Wellness podcast, host Conrad Weaver sits down with Mark Pattison, a former NFL wide receiver turned extreme mountaineer and Sports Illustrated executive. While Mark may not be a first responder in the traditional sense, his life journey is filled with parallels — perseverance, grit, mental toughness, and the …
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79 - Living out Your Faith as a First Responder - with Jeremy Wade
1:02:52
1:02:52
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1:02:52Episode Summary In Episode 79, Conrad Weaver welcomes back Jeremy Wade, former Seattle Police Officer and current founder of Mission First Alliance, a national faith-based organization supporting first responders. This episode features an inspiring and deeply moving conversation about the challenges and victories of living out Christian faith in th…
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78 - I was a Gray Crayon with Rachael Belcher
1:02:48
1:02:48
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1:02:48🎙️ Episode Overview In this deeply personal and inspiring episode of the First Responder Wellness Podcast, host Conrad Weaver sits down with Rachael Belcher, a seasoned paramedic from Baltimore County with over 25 years of experience in emergency services. Rachael opens up about the emotional and psychological toll of the job, recounting her early …
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77 - Norman Rocked my World with Tim Eggebraaten
56:44
56:44
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56:4477 - Norman Rocked my World with Tim Eggebraaten 📄 Episode Summary In this compelling episode, Tim Eggebraaten—former police chief, storyteller, and advocate for first responder mental health—joins the show to reflect on his transformative journey through law enforcement. Tim opens up about the deep emotional toll that policing took on his well-bei…
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76 - He's Not an #$$hole, He's Symptomatic - Erin Maccabee & Cinnamon Reiheld
1:14:55
1:14:55
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1:14:55He's not an #$$hole, He's Symptomatic - Erin Maccabee & Cinnamon Reiheld Episode Summary In this episode of the First Responder Wellness Podcast, host Conrad Weaver is joined by Erin Maccabee and Cinnamon Reiheld for a powerful conversation about the mental health challenges faced by first responders. They explore how trauma, desensitization, and h…
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This fictional tale, rooted in history, explores the world of American hobos from the late 19th to mid-20th century, sharing the story of these itinerant workers as they rode the rails, embodying freedom and resilience. Hobos played a vital role in America's workforce, contributing to industries from agriculture to railroads. Hobos had an extraordi…
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75 - I Needed to be My Own Hero - Ashley Jones
29:26
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29:26Episode Summary In this episode of the First Responder Wellness Podcast, Conrad Weaver talks with Ashley Jones — a seasoned police officer and empowerment coach — as she shares her deeply personal journey through law enforcement and mental health challenges faced by first responders. Ashley opens up about the illusion of brotherhood in the field, t…
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Train Like an Athlete with Dr. Heather Twedell
1:02:09
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1:02:09🧠 Episode Summary In this powerful and thought-provoking episode of the First Responder Wellness Podcast LIVE, host Conrad Weaver is joined by Dr. Heather Twedell, widely known as “Dr. T,” a leading psychologist specializing in first responder mental health and wellness. Dr. T shares her deeply personal connection to the first responder community, …
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74 - Finding your Why with Allen Williford
1:01:36
1:01:36
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1:01:36📝 Episode Summary In this episode of the First Responder Wellness Podcast, host Conrad Weaver sits down with Allen Williford to discuss Paddling for Pennies, an inspiring initiative that raises funds for first responders and their families. Allen shares the origins of this 193-mile endurance paddle and the mental and physical challenges it brings. …
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73 - Staying Healthy Investigating Crimes Against Children with Tony Godwin
50:41
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50:41Episode Summary In this episode of the First Responder Wellness Podcast, host Conrad Weaver sits down with veteran officer Tony Godwin from the Garland Police Department. With over 31 years of experience, Tony specializes in internet crimes against children, working tirelessly to protect vulnerable populations. They discuss: The challenges of inves…
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72 - Turning Tragedy into Hope for First Responders with Linda Kokoros
1:02:09
1:02:09
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1:02:0972 - Turning Tragedy into Hope for First Responders with Linda Kokoros Episode Summary: In this deeply moving episode, Linda Kokoros shares her personal journey as a first responder family member navigating grief after the tragic loss of her son, Alex, to suicide. She sheds light on the mental health challenges faced by first responders, the lack o…
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71 - How to Create a Culture of Wellness with Chief Neil Gang
1:01:04
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1:01:0471 - How to Create a Culture of Wellness with Chief Neil Gang This is from the First Responder Wellness Podcast LIVE event we hosted on February 21. 🎧 First Responder Wellness Podcast 📅 Episode 71 | February 25, 2025 🎙 Host: Conrad Weaver 🎙 Guest: Chief Neil Gang Episode Overview In this special episode of the First Responder Wellness Podcast, host…
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As an old man sits on a park bench, lost in thought with a well-worn book by his side, a young man approaches him, seeking guidance on a pressing question: how to find passion and purpose in life. This fictional story shares their conversation, revealing timeless truths about the journey of learning and the importance of embracing uncertainty. PDF …
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Register for the LIVE Events here: https://mailchi.mp/ptsd911movie/first-responder-wellness-podcast-live 70 - Searching for Answers with Liz Pol Episode Summary In this powerful episode of the First Responder Wellness Podcast, we sit down with Liz Pol, a Chicago police officer with 21 years of service and a mental health professional specializing i…
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In a world often consumed by the pursuit of material success and instant gratification, wisdom from those who have lived long and experienced much can be a beacon of light. "Old Man's Advice" is a poignant tale that captures the essence of a life well-lived, as told by a 97-year-old man to a group of young listeners. This fictional story is more th…
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69 - I was the Angry Dispatcher - Adam Timm
1:04:17
1:04:17
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1:04:1769 - I was the Angry Dispatcher - Adam TimmEpisode Summary In this episode of the First Responder Wellness Podcast, host Conrad Weaver speaks with Adam Timm about the mental health challenges faced by 911 dispatchers and first responders. Adam, who spent 20 years in 911 dispatch, shares his personal journey of transformation through mindfulness and…
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Some roads are paved, others are made of steel, and a few exist only in the melodies we carry with us. This fictional tale is a story of connection, about a wandering musician named Zack, whose life on the rails spanned decades and continents, and a young pianist, Sarah, whose structured world was forever changed by the freedom of his music.**** It…
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68 - Talking About it is Therapy - With Mike Bergin
36:19
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36:1968 - Talking About it is Therapy - With Mike Bergin Episode Summary In this powerful episode of the First Responder Wellness Podcast, Mike Bergin opens up about the mental health challenges he faced throughout his career in law enforcement, including the profound impact of a police-involved shooting. He discusses the stigma that often prevents firs…
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"Seize the Day" is a powerful narrative about personal renewal, intergenerational wisdom, and the universal human desire to live authentically. It reminds us that age is not a barrier to growth, adventure, and self-discovery, but rather an opportunity to reflect, learn, and reinvent ourselves. This fictional story serves as a reminder that every mo…
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67 - He Died on Father's Day - The Impact of Suicide on First Responder Families
54:36
54:36
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54:36Episode Summary: In this powerful and emotional episode of the First Responder Wellness Podcast, host Conrad Weaver sits down with Christy Lister, the former wife of a police officer who tragically took his own life in 2019. Christy shares her personal journey of navigating life after loss, the challenges faced by first responder families, and the …
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This story reflects on the enduring power of kindness. Kindness is not just an action—it is a way of being, a thread that connects us to one another in profound and meaningful ways. This fictional tale invites us to journey with a traveler, Andante, and a wise weaver, Elena, as they explore how acts of compassion, understanding, and generosity can …
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66 - From Dispatcher to Chaplain: Brandi Powell is on a Mission
33:12
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33:12From Dispatcher to Chaplain: Brandi Powell is on a MissionEpisode Summary In this episode of the First Responder Wellness Podcast, we welcome Brandi Powell, a seasoned professional with 15 years of 911 dispatch experience and 12 years of ministerial work. Brandi shares her journey from being on the frontlines of emergency response to becoming a cer…
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Wellness on the Front Lines of the California Fires
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13:17SPECIAL EDITION: Wellness on the Front Lines of the California Fires Matty Fiorenza is on the front lines of the California Fires working with first responders. In times of need, we often see the true heroes among us! As we watch the brave first responders in action, I feel grateful for their courage and strength. Many families including the firefi…
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