James Rossano-Bull has spent over 25 years in the UK Fire Service — but nothing could prepare him for the day he responded to his own mother’s emergency. In this episode, James shares his journey through PTSD, grief, and recovery, and the lessons he’s learned about mental health in frontline services.
We talk about:
The hidden cost of trauma in the fire service
Leadership vs management in high-pressure roles
Using fitness and endurance challenges to protect your mental health
Speaking out, breaking stigma, and finding personal coping strategies
Links from James:
Black Dog Run Club YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@blackdogrunclub
PTSD 999: https://www.ptsd999.org.uk
The Fire Fighters Charity: https://www.firefighterscharity.org.uk
Follow The Lonely Chapter on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lonelychapterpodcast
