I'm Back

Want to work with me? Visit https://thethingsweallcarry.com/ for information about coaching and speaking.  Support the show AND enjoy good coffee https://kismetroasters.myshopify.com/ Looking for the best and cleanest CBD you can find? Look no further....Use the code "Stack"  https://rescue1cbd.com/find-your-cbd-solution/  This episode is a candid exploration of the uncomfortable truth that recovery isn't just about stopping harmful behaviors—it's about grieving the loss of the rush those behaviors provided, while learning to sit with yourself and build a healthier life. Stack's vulnerability offers hope to first responders and others struggling with similar patterns: recovery is possible, even when it's messy and you miss what you've left behind.

Want to work with me? Visit https://thethingsweallcarry.com/ for information about coaching and speaking.  Email Patrick here  [email protected]   Support the show AND enjoy good coffee https://kismetroasters.myshopify.com/ Looking for the best and cleanest CBD you can find? Look no further....Use the code "Stack"  https://rescue1cbd.com/find-your-cbd-solution/ 

Want to work with me? Visit https://thethingsweallcarry.com/ for information about coaching and speaking.  Take your own ACE test here https://americanspcc.org/take-the-aces-quiz/ Support the show AND enjoy good coffee https://kismetroasters.myshopify.com/ Looking for the best and cleanest CBD you can find? Look no further....Use the code "Stack"  https://rescue1cbd.com/find-your-cbd-solution/ 

Want to work with me? Visit https://thethingsweallcarry.com/ for information about coaching and speaking.  Find all things "AK" right here https://akdozanti.com/  Support the show AND enjoy good coffee https://kismetroasters.myshopify.com/ Looking for the best and cleanest CBD you can find? Look no further....Use the code "Stack"  https://rescue1cbd.com/find-your-cbd-solution/     

I'm Back   It's been a while, and so much has happened. Buckle up for Season 2. New guests and more of my own story. Introducing a new sponsor of the show.... Kismet Roasters. Good coffee is meant to be. Follow this link for a listener discount https://kismetroasters.myshopify.com/discount/TTWAC15 Also, check out Rescue 1 CBD. Go grab one of their extraordinary products, such as my new favorite...R1P Pouches. Follow this link https://rescue1cbd.com?ref=1014    

In Episode 143 of The Things We All Carry we delve into the powerful and inspiring story of Tim Spradlin, a veteran, a retired firefighter, and a fire marshal who now runs a successful equine therapy farm in Ohio. Tim shares his multifaceted journey through trauma and recovery, his battles with depression and anxiety, and the transformative power of equine therapy. This episode not only highlights Tim's personal experiences but also explores the profound impact of understanding trauma, seeking help, and the importance of community support. Tune in to hear Tim's invaluable insights and learn how he helps first responders and veterans find peace and recovery. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:22 Reflecting on Personal Struggles 02:50 The Question of Doing Enough 05:43 Holiday Struggles and Support 07:58 Introducing Tim Spradlin 10:41 Tim's Journey and Equine Therapy 18:47 Military and First Responder Experiences 29:45 Healing and Helping Others 37:37 Understanding Herd Animals: Horses and Humans 38:23 The Healing Power of Vulnerability 38:47 Learning Through Equine-Assisted Activities 41:26 Personal Reflections and Childhood Memories 46:31 The Importance of Being Present 47:33 Combining Therapy and Peer Support 52:47 Daily Practices for Mental Well-being 55:32 The Journey to Inner Peace 01:04:32 The Future of Finally Home Farm 01:10:54 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Episode 142 In this powerful episode of 'The Things We All Carry,' Stack returns after a hiatus to share his personal battle with depression and self-reflection. He introduces his guest, Ashley Iverson, the widow of Corey Iverson, a firefighter who perished in the Thomas Fire of 2017. Ashley talks about coping with her immense loss, finding gratitude, and her mission to support first responders through the Iverson Foundation for Active Awareness (IFAA). She discusses mental health, the importance of gratitude, self-care, and how she continues to carry forward and make a difference in the lives of others. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:25 Personal Struggles and Introspection 02:03 Understanding Depression 04:17 The Journey to Self-Forgiveness 13:43 Introducing Episode 142 16:42 Interview with Ashley Iverson 18:58 Ashley's Background and Early Life 32:39 Meeting Corey Iverson 34:42 A Love Story Begins 36:13 The Proposal and Marriage 36:33 The Thomas Fire Tragedy 37:18 Coping with Loss 38:23 Mental Health Awareness 53:13 The Iverson Foundation 01:07:43 Elements of Healing 01:15:20 Moving Forward 01:19:59 Final Thoughts and Reflections

In this heartfelt episode of 'The Things We All Carry,'  Stack interviews grief coach Lynn Lewis, who shares her journey through grief after the tragic loss of her son to suicide. Lynn talks about her mission to help others by sharing her own story and the importance of grieving out loud. They discuss the complexities of grief, the misconceptions around the stages of grief, and the critical need for self-care. Lynn also emphasizes the emotional toll on first responders and how her work aims to break the stigma surrounding mental health and grief. This episode is a reminder that it's okay to talk about our pain and loss and that doing so can be a powerful step toward healing.   00:00 Introduction to The Things We All Carry Podcast 00:45 Host's Personal Reflections and Struggles 01:45 Dealing with Grief and Emotions 03:39 Upcoming Episode Preview 07:19 Guest Introduction: Lynn Lewis 07:34 Lynn's Story: A Mother's Grief 08:11 The Impact of Suicide on Family 08:26 Lynn's Journey to Becoming a Grief Coach 09:25 Encouragement to Share and Heal 10:19 Conversation with Lynn Lewis 16:35 Daniel's Life and Career 24:37 The Day of the Tragedy 30:17 Understanding and Coping with Suicide 41:02 Turning Pain into Purpose 41:14 Sharing the Story: A Path to Healing 42:34 Navigating the Stigma of Suicide 44:02 Understanding Grief and Its Stages 47:11 Acknowledgement vs. Acceptance 48:42 Creating an Action Plan for Grief 49:45 Dealing with Guilt and Moving Forward 53:16 Coping with Anniversaries and Special Dates 57:35 The Importance of Talking About Grief 01:06:58 Resources and Final Thoughts

In this episode of The Things We All Carry, Stack shares personal reflections on grief, healing, and change. Nearing the one-year anniversary of his mother's passing, he discusses the importance of family time, dealing with emotional pain, and the unpredictable nature of grief. The episode also explores managing retirement, overcoming feelings of being lost, and seeking community connection. Stack addresses common listener questions on topics like self-care, imposter syndrome, and finding the right therapist. He also introduces a new podcast, 'The Things We All Can,' focused on positive change-makers in the fire service. Listen in for a candid discussion about the challenges and steps toward healing, resilience, and community support. 00:00 Introduction to The Things We All Carry 00:45 A Personal Reflection on Grief 02:14 Dealing with Loss and Healing 07:10 Navigating Post-Retirement Challenges 11:17 Changing Fire Department Culture 15:29 Finding the Right Therapist 18:30 Addressing Imposter Syndrome 22:05 The Importance of Self-Care 29:09 Upcoming Projects and New Show 32:44 Call for Stories and Conclusion

In this comprehensive episode of 'The Things We All Carry,' we delve into the profound challenges surrounding trauma and suicide, particularly among first responders and military personnel. The host reflects on personal struggles, including the anniversaries of significant losses in October. Guest Mike, a trauma and suicide researcher and U.S. Army veteran, provides valuable insights into why these issues are so prevalent in high-stress professions. Key topics include the difference between being 'triggered' and 'activated,' the psychological theories of suicidal ideation, and the impact of addiction. The episode highlights the importance of trust, community support, and actionable steps individuals and communities can take to mitigate suicide rates. Join us as we explore these heavy topics and strive to foster better mental health support systems.   00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:25 Personal Struggles in October 01:07 Reflecting on Past Intros 02:08 Embracing Imperfection and Taking Action 04:20 The Importance of Conversation 05:14 Facing Personal Demons 06:34 The Power of Talking 08:24 Commitment to Self-Improvement 12:39 Episode 139 Introduction 13:04 Understanding Suicide 17:09 Triggered vs. Activated 23:12 Overt and Covert Suicide 32:16 Addiction and Depression 33:26 Interpersonal Theory of Suicide 34:41 Understanding Thwarted Belongingness 35:34 Perceived Burdensomeness in Veterans 36:30 Acquired Capability of Suicide 37:34 The Role of Past Traumas 38:55 Substance Use and Self-Medication 39:49 Mental Health in First Responders 42:33 The Importance of Continued Support 46:41 Community and Personal Responsibility 01:00:44 Changing the Narrative Around Suicide 01:01:29 Final Thoughts and Reflections