February 2025 Update From Skip O

In this episode of the Burnout Podcast, host Skip O welcomes firefighter Mike Mount from Orlando, Florida. Mike shares his journey from a young boy fascinated by fire trucks to a seasoned firefighter and military veteran. He discusses the challenges and stressors faced in both the military and fire service, including his personal struggles with mental health and the support systems that helped him recover. Mike also talks about his business venture, Flip Flop Firefighter, and offers advice to those dealing with trauma.TakeawaysMike Mount's journey from fascination with fire trucks to a career in firefighting.The impact of military service on mental health and stress management.The importance of peer support and mental health resources for first responders.Mike's personal experience with trauma and recovery.The role of the Center of Excellence in Mike's recovery journey.Mike's business venture, Flip Flop Firefighter, and its growth.Advice for those dealing with trauma: reach out and seek support.The significance of having a supportive community in recovery.Mike's mantra: 'Never stop, never quit.'The Burnout Network's role in providing support and resources.

 Join us on the Burnout Podcast as we sit down with Tony Sibley, a 9/11 survivor and mental health advocate. Tony shares his harrowing experience during the attacks, his journey through trauma, and his current work in suicide prevention and mental health advocacy. This episode is a testament to resilience and the power of sharing one's story.Key Points:Tony's experience as a 9/11 survivor and the impact on his life. The importance of mental health support and counseling. Tony's involvement in suicide prevention and advocacy work. Insights into coping with trauma and finding purpose.Hashtags:#MentalHealth #911Survivor #SuicidePrevention #ResiliencePLEASE SUPPORT THIS PODCAST BY TAKING A LOOK AT OUR SPONSORSAdvoCast: https://advocast.mediaPODCAST WEBSITE:https://burntoutnetwork.orgBURNT OUT CREW:Host: Skip OExecutive Producer: Shawn P NealBrought to you by AdvoCast

In this episode of the Burnout Podcast, host Skip O speaks with Tom, an American who has lived in the UK for over 40 years. Tom shares his personal journey with alcoholism, including his struggles, recovery, and the importance of community support. He discusses the dark moments of his life, including suicidal thoughts, and how he found hope and purpose through the 12-step program and connecting with others. The conversation emphasizes the significance of reaching out for help and the transformative power of recovery.Takeaways:Tom's journey began in New York and led him to the UK.He struggled with alcoholism for many years before seeking help.The first step in recovery is recognizing the problem.Suicidal thoughts were a significant part of Tom's struggle.Community support is crucial in the recovery process.Living in the present is essential for recovery.Tom emphasizes the importance of reaching out for help.There is no shame in seeking support for mental health issues.Recovery is a continuous journey, not a destination.Tom's life today is vastly different from his past.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Tom's Journey03:06 The Struggles of Alcoholism05:59 The Path to Recovery08:49 Facing Suicidal Thoughts12:09 The Early Days of Sobriety15:00 Finding Hope and Purpose17:51 The Importance of Community Support21:12 Final Thoughts and EncouragementPLEASE SUPPORT THIS PODCAST BY TAKING A LOOK AT OUR SPONSORSAdvoCast: https://advocast.mediaPODCAST WEBSITE:https://burntoutnetwork.orgBURNT OUT CREW:Host: Skip OExecutive Producer: Shawn P NealBrought to you by AdvoCastEPISODE HASHTAGS:#firefighter #firstresponder #ems #emt #police #lawenforcement #military #trauma #mentalhealth #USMC #military

In this episode of the Burnout Podcast, host Skip O interviews Kenny Schroeder, a retired firefighter who shares his journey through the challenges of serving in the fire service, including personal struggles with mental health, the stigma surrounding peer support, and the impact of cancer on firefighters. Kenny discusses his transition from a fulfilling career to retirement, the importance of finding purpose, and how the Save a Warrior program helped him regain his sense of self. He emphasizes the need for peer support and community in addressing mental health and wellness in the fire service, and encourages listeners to reach out for help and never give up hope.Kenny Schroeder has dedicated his career to the fire service since 1996, serving as aLieutenant with the Fort Mitchell Fire Department and retiring after 26 years with theIndependence Fire District. He is a strong advocate for firefighter health, focusing on cancerprevention, mental health, and peer support. Kenny volunteers his time in various capacitiesthroughout the Cincinnati, Ohio area including as Team Coordinator for the Kentucky FirstResponder Peer Support Team, Team Coordinator for the Pet Partners First Responder PetTherapy Support Team, Board Member for the Tri State Peer Support Team, and Board Memberfor the Tri State FACE Team. As a Board Member of the Tri-State FACE Team (FirefightersAttacking the Cancer Epidemic), he works relentlessly to raise awareness, provide education,and fight for proactive measures to reduce cancer risks for his peers. Kenny most recentlybegan working for NIOSH as a Firefighter Program Specialist for the National FirefighterRegistry for Cancer. His role is to help increase enrollment into the NFR for Cancer whileeducating and raising awareness on the topic of occupational cancer in the fire service.PLEASE SUPPORT THIS PODCAST BY TAKING A LOOK AT OUR SPONSORSThrottle & Thrive First Responder Addiction Recovery: https://throttleandthrive.com/AdvoCast: https://advocast.mediaPODCAST WEBSITE:https://burntoutpodcast.orgBURNT OUT CREW:Host: Skip OBonus Episode Host: Capt. Chuck BrayExecutive Producer: Shawn P NealBrought to you by AdvoCastEPISODE HASHTAGS:#firefighter #firstresponder #ems #emt #police #lawenforcement #military #trauma #mentalhealth #USMC #military

Skip O shares an update on what's coming from the Burn Out Network and Podcast.PLEASE SUPPORT THIS PODCAST BY TAKING A LOOK AT OUR SPONSORSThrottle & Thrive First Responder Addiction Recovery: https://throttleandthrive.com/AdvoCast: https://advocast.mediaPODCAST WEBSITE:https://burntoutpodcast.orgBURNT OUT CREW:Host: Skip OBonus Episode Host: Capt. Chuck BrayExecutive Producer: Shawn P NealBrought to you by AdvoCastEPISODE HASHTAGS:#firefighter #firstresponder #ems #emt #police #lawenforcement #military #trauma #mentalhealth #USMC #military

In this episode of the Burnout Podcast, host Skip O. speaks with Dr. Julie Ann Goode, a clinical psychologist specializing in trauma resolution and mental health for first responders. They discuss the impact of recent wildfires in California, the psychological effects on first responders, and the importance of therapy in processing trauma. Dr. Good explains acute stress disorder, the role of EMDR in trauma recovery, and how to break through resistance in therapy. The conversation emphasizes the need for empathy and support for those affected by trauma, encouraging listeners to seek help and share their feelings.Dr. Julie Ann Goode Phone: 1-562-209-1837TakeawaysDr. Julie Ann Good has extensive experience working with first responders.Acute stress disorder can develop after traumatic events like wildfires.Therapy is crucial for processing trauma and preventing PTSD.EMDR is an effective technique for trauma resolution.Support systems are vital for first responders and their families.Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Dr. Julie Ann Good02:52 Understanding Acute Stress Disorder05:56 Impact of Wildfires on First Responders08:47 The Role of Therapy in Trauma Recovery12:09 EMDR and Other Therapeutic Techniques15:03 Breaking Through Resistance in Therapy17:56 The Importance of Empathy and Support20:48 Final Thoughts and ResourcesPLEASE SUPPORT THIS PODCAST BY TAKING A LOOK AT OUR SPONSORSThrottle & Thrive First Responder Addiction Recovery: https://throttleandthrive.com/AdvoCast: https://advocast.mediaPODCAST WEBSITE:https://burntoutpodcast.orgBURNT OUT CREW:Host: Skip OBonus Episode Host: Capt. Chuck BrayExecutive Producer: Shawn P NealBrought to you by AdvoCastEPISODE HASHTAGS:#firefighter #firstresponder #ems #emt #police #lawenforcement #military #trauma #mentalhealth #USMC #military

In this episode of the Burnout Network podcast, host Skippo speaks with Tony Wellsby, a police officer from Merseyside, about his journey in law enforcement, the challenges faced by police officers, and the importance of mental health support. Tony shares his personal experiences with trauma, the impact of his work on his well-being, and his role with the Thin Blue Line UK charity, which advocates for police officers' mental health. The conversation emphasizes the need for open discussions about mental health, breaking the stigma, and providing accessible support for those in the emergency services.Thin Blue Line UK Link: https://www.thinbluelineuk.org.uk/TakeawaysTony Wellsby has been a police officer since 1996.He is passionate about the well-being of police officers.Camaraderie among officers is crucial for coping with stress.Many officers develop unhealthy coping mechanisms.The Thin Blue Line UK charity supports police officers' mental health.Mental health challenges are common in law enforcement.Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.The Thrive app provides confidential mental health support.Community engagement is vital for police and public relations.It's important to recognize the toll of trauma on first responders.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Tony Wellsby and His Journey03:01 The Reality of Policing: Challenges and Misconceptions05:52 Coping Mechanisms in Law Enforcement09:05 Personal Experiences and the Impact of Trauma11:58 The Role of Thin Blue Line UK Charity14:50 Mental Health Support for Police Officers18:03 Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Health20:48 Community Engagement and Future Initiatives24:00 Final Thoughts and EncouragementPLEASE SUPPORT THIS PODCAST BY TAKING A LOOK AT OUR SPONSORSThrottle & Thrive First Responder Addiction Recovery: https://throttleandthrive.com/AdvoCast: https://advocast.mediaPODCAST WEBSITE:https://burntoutpodcast.orgBURNT OUT CREW:Host: Skip OMental Health Minute: Melissa HSunday Support Zoom Meeting Facilitator: Jeff DBonus Episode Host: Capt. Chuck BrayExecutive Producer: Shawn P NealBrought to you by AdvoCastEPISODE HASHTAGS:#firefighter #firstresponder #ems #emt #police #lawenforcement #military #trauma #mentalhealth #USMC #military

In this episode of the Burnout Podcast, host Skip O speaks with Alex, a Scottish police officer with 24 years of experience. They discuss the emotional and mental challenges faced by first responders, the importance of peer support, and the therapeutic benefits of walking in nature. Alex shares his journey from the early days of policing in Glasgow to organizing walking holidays aimed at improving mental health for first responders. The conversation culminates in plans for a 'Walk Out of Darkness' event along the West Highland Way, emphasizing the need for connection and support among those in high-stress professions.TakeawaysThe emotional toll of being a first responder is significant.Walking in nature can be a powerful therapeutic tool.Peer support is crucial for mental health in high-stress jobs.Mental health awareness is growing, but more support is needed.Organizing group activities can foster connection and healing.The West Highland Way offers a unique opportunity for reflection and bonding.Sharing experiences can help break the stigma around mental health.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Burnout Podcast and Sponsorship01:13 Meet Alex: A Scottish Police Officer's Journey02:13 The Early Days of Policing in Glasgow03:09 The Motivation Behind Becoming a Police Officer04:08 The Challenges of First Responders05:04 The Emotional Toll of Policing06:01 Coping Mechanisms and Mental Health Awareness06:59 The Importance of Peer Support07:59 Walking as a Therapeutic Activity08:56 Organizing Walking Holidays for Mental Health09:53 The West Highland Way: A Journey of Healing10:53 Planning the Walk Out of Darkness11:50 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for First RespondersPLEASE SUPPORT THIS PODCAST BY TAKING A LOOK AT OUR SPONSORSThrottle & Thrive First Responder Addiction Recovery: https://throttleandthrive.com/AdvoCast: https://advocast.mediaPODCAST WEBSITE:https://burntoutpodcast.orgBURNT OUT CREW:Host: Skip OMental Health Minute: Melissa HSunday Support Zoom Meeting Facilitator: Jeff DBonus Episode Host: Capt. Chuck BrayExecutive Producer: Shawn P NealBrought to you by AdvoCastEPISODE HASHTAGS:#firefighter #firstresponder #ems #emt #police #lawenforcement #military #trauma #mentalhealth #USMC #military

In this episode of the Burnout podcast, Richard Gallegos shares his journey from being a paramedic to becoming a mental health advocate. He discusses his struggles with addiction, the turning point that led him to seek help, and the therapeutic conversations he had while working at the IAFF Center of Excellence. Richard also talks about his book 'Recovery Run', his motivation for ultra running, and his new business, Rescue and Recovered. He emphasizes the importance of addressing stigma in mental health and encourages those struggling to seek help and speak up.TakeawaysRichard Gallegos is a veteran ultra marathoner and mental health advocate.He struggled with PTSD, depression, and addiction during his EMS career.The turning point for Richard was the threat of losing his family.He emphasizes the importance of supportive relationships in recovery.Richard's book 'Recovery Run' details his journey and the struggles of EMS workers.Ultra running became a metaphor for perseverance and overcoming obstacles.He started a business called Rescue and Recovered, focusing on auto detailing.Richard aims to combine his passions for ultra running and mental health advocacy.Stigma in the EMS field is a significant barrier to seeking help.Richard encourages open conversations about mental health and finding trusted individuals to talk to.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Richard Gallegos01:02 Richard's Journey in EMS and Mental Health06:22 The Turning Point: Acknowledging Addiction10:48 Therapeutic Conversations: Helping Others11:42 Writing 'Recovery Run': A Personal Journey15:05 The Motivation Behind Ultra Running19:47 Starting a New Business: Rescue and Recovered22:08 Combining Passions: Ultra Running and Mental Health Advocacy24:04 Confronting Stigma in Mental Health28:40 Finding Help: Encouragement for Those StrugglingPLEASE SUPPORT THIS PODCAST BY TAKING A LOOK AT OUR SPONSORSThrottle & Thrive First Responder Addiction Recovery: https://throttleandthrive.com/AdvoCast: https://advocast.mediaPODCAST WEBSITE:https://burntoutpodcast.orgBURNT OUT CREW:Host: Skip OMental Health Minute: Melissa HSunday Support Zoom Meeting Facilitator: Jeff DBonus Episode Host: Capt. Chuck BrayExecutive Producer: Shawn P NealBrought to you by AdvoCastEPISODE HASHTAGS:#firefighter #firstresponder #ems #emt #police #lawenforcement #military #trauma #mentalhealth #USMC #military

In this episode of the Burnout podcast, Skip O and Jason Sautel discuss the profound impact of trauma on first responders and the healing journey through faith and community support. Jason shares his personal experiences as a firefighter and the traumas he faced, emphasizing the importance of hope and the role of Christ in his recovery. The conversation highlights the need for support systems, the significance of addressing trauma, and the upcoming events aimed at fostering community and healing.TakeawaysTrauma can stem from childhood experiences and professional challenges.Helping others does not always equate to healing oneself.Community support is crucial for overcoming trauma.Faith can provide clarity on what can and cannot be fixed.Living without hope is akin to merely existing.Chapters00:00Introduction to Trauma and Hope03:03Personal Stories of Trauma05:58The Role of Faith in Healing08:47Understanding Trauma in First Responders12:08Finding Hope Amidst Pain14:52Community Support and Resources17:47Upcoming Events and InitiativesPLEASE SUPPORT THIS PODCAST BY TAKING A LOOK AT OUR SPONSORSThrottle & Thrive First Responder Addiction Recovery: https://throttleandthrive.com/AdvoCast: https://advocast.mediaPODCAST WEBSITE:https://burntoutpodcast.orgBURNT OUT CREW:Host: Skip OMental Health Minute: Melissa HSunday Support Zoom Meeting Facilitator: Jeff DBonus Episode Host: Capt. Chuck BrayExecutive Producer: Shawn P NealBrought to you by AdvoCastEPISODE HASHTAGS:#firefighter #firstresponder #ems #emt #police #lawenforcement #military #trauma #mentalhealth #USMC #military