In this episode of the Weight We Carry Podcast, Bart Heaney speaks with Tyler Kelly, a paramedic and deputy chief, about his journey into public safety, the challenges faced by first responders, and the importance of mental health support. Tyler shares his experiences, including his first major call involving a pediatric cardiac arrest, the impact of losing a colleague in the line of duty, and the ongoing struggle with trauma and grief in the EMS community. The conversation emphasizes the need for open discussions about mental health and the significance of support systems for first responders. In this conversation, Tyler Kelly and Bart Heaney discuss the challenges of mental health in public safety, the importance of therapy and medication, and the stigma surrounding mental health issues. They share personal experiences of navigating life changes, coping mechanisms, and the significance of support systems. The discussion emphasizes the need for open conversations about mental health and encourages the next generation of EMS professionals to prioritize self-care and resilience.