After 31 years of service in Western Australia, firefighter Anthony Ajduk had seen it all — until one horrific crash changed everything.
In this powerful conversation, Anthony opens up about the night that ended his career, the years that followed, and the war he’s still fighting inside his own mind.

This episode dives deep into the reality of PTSD, the importance of involving family in recovery, and how dark humor keeps first responders alive long after the sirens stop.

Anthony’s honesty cuts through the noise, reminding us that PTSD isn’t weakness — it’s an injury. And injuries can be treated.

🧯 Guest: Anthony Ajduk – Retired Firefighter, Author of “A Firefighter’s Life”
📚 Available now on Amazon

🗓️ Episode drops October 23, 2025 – 3:00 a.m. CST

⚠️ Listener Advisory:
This episode contains graphic and emotional content, along with dark humor. Discretion is advised.

If you’re struggling, don’t do it alone.
Text or call 988 or visit 988lifeline.org

🧠 Need support right now? Call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org. You’re not alone — not in this job, not in this fight.
📱 Follow us on Facebook: Dispatched and Dysfunctional
🌐 Visit: www.critical-run.com to connect, share your story, or just vent
🎤 Got a call that changed you? Submit your story — we’ll carry it with care (and maybe a little dark humor).
⚠️ Disclaimer: This podcast contains graphic content, emotional storytelling, and dark humor based on real-life EMS and first responder experiences. Listener discretion is advised.
Any medical discussion is personal opinion, not medical advice. Always follow your local protocols, medical direction, and training guidelines.
This podcast isn’t about fairy tales. It’s about real calls, real chaos, and the medics who survive both.
Dispatched & Dysfunctional — because sometimes the worst calls… make the best stories.