Summary

In this episode of the Weight We Carry podcast, hosts Brittany and Bart Heaney engage with Captain Holly Sherman, a paramedic field training officer from New Orleans EMS. The conversation delves into the mental health challenges faced by first responders, the unique pressures of working in a high-stress environment, and the importance of addressing mental health stigma within the community. Holly shares her personal journey into EMS, memorable calls that shaped her career, and the balance between her demanding job and family life. The discussion highlights the need for better mental health resources and the evolution of support systems in the EMS field. In this engaging conversation, Holly Sherman shares her experiences as a paramedic and the impact of her role on the perception of emergency medical services (EMS). She discusses the importance of representation in the field, the challenges of burnout, and the significance of mental health awareness among first responders. Holly emphasizes the need for self-care and the importance of seeking help when needed. She also reflects on her journey in EMS, offering advice to future generations and highlighting the joy and fulfillment that comes from the job. The conversation concludes with a focus on the importance of self-awareness and professionalism in the field.

mental health, first responders, public safety, PTSD, leadership, training, resilience, coping strategies, community support, emotional well-beingsummaryIn this episode of The Weight We Carry Podcast, Bart and Brittany Heaney sit down with Scott Garing, Chief of Fire and Emergency Services for Cranberry Township. Scott shares his journey through public safety, the impact of his military service, and the importance of mental health awareness among first responders. He discusses the challenges of coping with trauma, the significance of continuous training, and the lessons learned from personal and professional tragedies. The conversation emphasizes the need for vulnerability, community support, and the ripple effect of helping others in the field of public safety.takeaways

• ​Mental health challenges are prevalent among first responders.
• ​Family influences can shape career paths significantly.
• ​Military service can impact mental health and coping mechanisms.
• ​Coping with trauma is a continuous journey.
• ​Leadership is about supporting and uplifting others.
• ​Continuous training is essential for public safety professionals.
• ​Embracing emotions is a sign of strength, not weakness.
• ​The importance of mentorship in personal and professional growth.
• ​Helping others can be a form of healing for oneself.
• ​It's okay to seek help and talk about mental health issues.
• ​Navigating Mental Health in First Responders
• ​Scott Garing: A Journey Through Public Safety
• ​"It's okay to not be okay."
• ​"I wear my heart on my sleeve."
• ​"Embrace the bad days."

titlesSound BitesChapters00:00Introduction to Scott Gehring03:18The Impact of 'Take Your Kid to Work Day'07:43Early Days in Public Safety11:39Military Service and 9/1115:26Challenges of Serving Overseas20:39Recognizing PTSD and Its Effects25:53Embracing Emotions and Vulnerability28:52The Aftermath of a Traumatic Incident35:18The Weight of Responsibility39:02Leadership Lessons from Tragedy41:47Navigating Personal and Professional Challenges45:38The Importance of Continuous Training50:32Making a Difference in Public Safety54:28Legacy and Mentorship in Public Safety58:00Mental Health and Coping Strategies01:01:16Embracing the Journey01:04:59The Importance of Fun and Connection01:06:37The Weight We Carry.mp4

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.