Ever wondered what happens when traditional mental health approaches fail our first responders? In this groundbreaking episode, I speak with Rob Poynter, a retired deputy sheriff, who took an unconventional path to healing the wounds left by his law enforcement career.
Rob's story begins with his upbringing as the son of a homicide detective who was an active father but struggled with alcoholism. He decided to follow in his dad's footsteps and after nearly 15 years of service, a motorcycle accident forced his medical retirement, leaving him to confront how his career had affected his relationships with his wife and son. Despite trying various wellness practices – from yoga to talk therapy – nothing seemed to break through the emotional armor he'd built up over years of service.
The conversation takes an unexpected turn as Rob describes his journey with the Siren Project, a nonprofit organization that facilitates psilocybin therapy retreats specifically for first responders. With remarkable candor, he details his experience with plant medicine in a ceremonial, medically-supervised setting in Mexico, and the profound insights he gained about his relationships and behavior patterns. Most surprisingly, he discovered his issues stemmed less from traumatic calls and more from childhood issues that had shaped his adult relationships.
What sets this episode apart is Rob's perspective as someone who once enforced drug laws now advocating for the healing potential of plant medicine. He emphasizes that he's "not some wavy gravy guy" but a typical law enforcement officer who found healing through an unconventional path. The lasting changes he describes – from daily meditation practices to newfound clarity in his relationships – challenge our assumptions about mental health treatment for those who serve.
Whether you're in law enforcement, another first responder field, or simply interested in alternative approaches to mental health, this conversation offers valuable insights into healing pathways that might not be found in traditional settings. Join us as we explore this aspect of first responder wellness and consider what it might mean for those struggling to process trauma in high-stress professions.
Ready to challenge your assumptions about healing? Listen now, share your thoughts, and help us continue this important conversation about mental health options for those who serve and protect.

🧰 Listener Resources from the Episode:

🌿 The Siren Project

A nonprofit organization offering plant medicine retreats for first responders
Website: www.thesirenproject.org

📬 Connect with Rob Poynter:

• Facebook: Rob Poynter
• Instagram: @rawb_zone
• Twitter: @RobZone1
• LinkedIn: Rob Poynter
• Email: [email protected]

Let us know what you loved about this episode!

Support the show

Fit For Shift is a first responder focused wellness app for health, fitness, and community. Sign up now for a 3-day free trial. First responder credentials are required to join.