Shows
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastStop Pushing It Down: The Cumulative Weight of the Uniform with Keven McNeilIn this conversation, Kevin explores the journey of Keven McNeill from a first responder to a peer support advocate, highlighting the impact of trauma and the challenges faced by first responders. It also delves into the role of leadership in addressing moral injury and the importance of building a supportive organizational culture. The discussion concludes with an exploration of trauma and adaptive protocols for addressing it. The conversation covers the use of Acute Stress Adaptive Protocol (ASAP) for processing traumatic events and its success in peer support. It also delves into the impact of cumulative stress and trauma on...
2026-02-1348 min
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastStop Pushing It Down: The Cumulative Weight of the Uniform with Keven McNeilIn this conversation, Kevin explores the journey of Keven McNeill from a first responder to a peer support advocate, highlighting the impact of trauma and the challenges faced by first responders. It also delves into the role of leadership in addressing moral injury and the importance of building a supportive organizational culture. The discussion concludes with an exploration of trauma and adaptive protocols for addressing it. The conversation covers the use of Acute Stress Adaptive Protocol (ASAP) for processing traumatic events and its success in peer support. It also delves into the impact of cumulative stress and trauma on...
2026-02-1247 min
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastThe Unthinkable Truth: The Price of Silence in Law Enforcement with Adam MeyersIn this episode, Adam Myers shares his profound journey as a police officer, detailing a critical incident that led to a life-altering experience. He discusses the challenges he faced in the aftermath, including unhealthy coping mechanisms and the stigma surrounding mental health in law enforcement. Adam emphasizes the importance of acknowledging the need for help and the transformative power of therapy. Through his story, he aims to inspire others to seek support and break the silence surrounding mental health struggles, particularly among first responders.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Adam's Story01:09...
2026-02-061h 00
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastThe Mental Pucker Factor: Pediatric Readiness with Christopher Blake @theblakerycontentIn this episode, Kevin Whitsell and co-host Makayla Davidson engage in a deep conversation with Christopher Blake, a pediatric flight nurse. They explore Christopher's journey into healthcare, the emotional challenges faced in pediatric emergencies, and the importance of compassionate care. The discussion highlights the unique aspects of pediatric care compared to adult care, the mental health struggles of EMS providers, and the significance of ongoing education and training in the field. Christopher shares personal experiences that shaped his career and emphasizes the need for support and understanding within the healthcare community.Chapters00:00 Introduction...
2026-01-291h 12
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastWe Are EMS: Moral Injury and Fighting for the Soul of the Profession with Sam MaGillIn this episode of "A Silent War Within," host Kevin Whitsell engages in a profound conversation with Sam, also known as Medic McGill on TikTok, about the evolving field of mobile integrated healthcare and community paramedicine. They explore the challenges and opportunities within EMS, the importance of mental health advocacy, and the shift from saving lives to sustaining them. Sam shares her personal journey in EMS, the impact of moral injury, and the significance of presence and humanity in patient care.TakeawaysMobile integrated healthcare is transforming patient outcomes and system efficiencies.Community paramedicine...
2026-01-231h 01
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastBurning It Down: A Journey of Healing with Cody MechamIn this episode of Silent World Within, host Kevin Whitsell interviews Cody Mecham, a first responder and author of the memoir 'Burning It Down.' They discuss the impact of adverse childhood experiences on first responders, the importance of communication and therapy in healing, and the dangers of isolation. Cody shares his journey of writing the book as a therapeutic process and emphasizes that it's okay to talk about one's struggles. The conversation highlights the need for a supportive community and the power of collective stories in overcoming mental health challenges.Chapters 00:00 Introduction t...
2026-01-1547 min
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastThe Isolated Frontline: Andrea LawThe conversation delves into Andrea's journey to home health nursing, the challenges and emotional toll of healthcare, and the importance of fostering positive communication and understanding between nurses and EMS. It also highlights the need for respect and support in healthcare, as well as the impact of the environment on healthcare delivery. The discussion emphasizes the significance of building positive relationships and fostering understanding in the healthcare setting. The conversation delves into the emotional toll of nursing and home health care, addressing conflicts, environmental challenges, and the importance of setting boundaries for mental health. It also explores the use...
2026-01-0958 min
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastThe Power of Connection: Kristen McGlothin's Empathy, Communication, and Faith in PolicingWhat happens when you trade physical force for the power of connection? This week on A Silent War Within, we sit down with Kristen McGlothlin to discuss her journey as a female officer in a male-dominated profession. Kristen challenges the traditional narrative of policing by proving that empathy is not a weakness—it is a tactical advantage.Kristen shares the remarkable reality of her career: she has never had to physically fight a suspect into her patrol car. By prioritizing verbal skills and treating every individual with respect, she has mastered the art of de-escalation in high-stakes en...
2026-01-0252 min
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastFrom Trauma to Triumph: Kristine Kapow's Journey in Emergency MedicineIn this episode, Kevin Whitsell speaks with Kristine Kapow, a PA and former paramedic, about her journey in emergency medicine, the emotional toll of the profession, and the importance of maintaining humanity in patient care. They discuss the challenges of compassion fatigue, decision fatigue, and the impact of personal experiences on professional practice. Kristine shares her coping mechanisms, including the significance of physical fitness and mental health strategies, while emphasizing the need for support within healthcare teams. The conversation concludes with Kristine's advice on navigating the complexities of working in emergency medicine.Takeaways:Kristine's...
2025-12-2554 min
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastConnection: The Key to Beating Burnout with AK DozantiIn this episode, AK Dozanti, Makayla Davidson, and Kevin Whitsell discuss the challenges of burnout and mental health in high-stress professions. AK shares her journey from law enforcement to mental health advocacy, emphasizing the importance of self-care, connection, and small, intentional changes to overcome burnout and foster resilience.Key Takeaways:Take your PTO, but it's a bandaid.Resetting your nervous system is key.Caffeine reliance can harm your health.Hydration is crucial for overall well-being.Distractions destroy actions; stay focused.Connection is everything in overcoming burnout.Micro challenges can lead to big changes.Trauma is a...
2025-12-191h 06
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastThe Unfiltered Truth: Hollywood, Heroism, and the Morale of EMS with Daniel Mouring/@ParamedicAFStop scrolling. Daniel Mouring aka @Paramedic AF, on TikTok, cuts through the noise in this critical conversation, exposing the most damaging lie in the industry: the glossy, unattainable hero persona projected by Hollywood.Daniel argues that the "Hollywood presentation of EMS is one of the most damaging things we have," creating an expectation that providers "show up tired, disheveled" but still must maintain an impossible standard. The conversation dives deep into:The Dehumanizing Persona: Why the hero label is corrosive and can enable the "victim card," leading to entitlement instead of accountability.
2025-12-1155 min
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastAbove the Line: What 25 Years of Critical Care Teaches You About Survival with Calen MurphyWe are honored to welcome Calen Murphy, Senior Operations Director for Hospital Wing, to the podcast. With over 25 years in EMS, nursing, and air medical, Calen shares a profound perspective on resilience and leadership longevity in critical care. This conversation goes deep into the cumulative mental health toll of a decades-long career on the frontline.Calen discusses the unseen mental burden of command in flight medicine and how the decisions of senior leadership impact the well-being of every paramedic and critical care transport nurse. We explore the essential shift from peer coping to executive resilience...
2025-12-0543 min
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastThe Heart of a Public Servant: Bernard TaylorIn this episode, Bernard Taylor shares his journey from being a firefighter to a viral content creator and now a congressional candidate. He discusses the importance of mental health, the challenges faced by first responders, and the systemic issues of poverty and education in America. Bernard emphasizes the need for genuine public service and the importance of community engagement in addressing these issues. He also highlights the role of humor in coping with the challenges of healthcare and public service, and the need for better mental health resources for first responders and the general public....
2025-11-2852 min
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastTrae Stine - The Firehouse, The Family, and The FeedsIn this engaging conversation, Trae Stein shares his unique journey to becoming a firefighter-paramedic, discussing the emotional toll of the job, the importance of communication skills, and the impact of social media on first responders. He emphasizes the significance of family support and coping mechanisms, particularly the role of sleep and exercise in maintaining mental health. Trae also reflects on the challenges of navigating trauma and the importance of treating patients with kindness and respect, regardless of the circumstances.TakeawaysTrae's journey into emergency services was unconventional, starting as a paramedic before becoming a...
2025-11-211h 08
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastFrom Trauma to Triumph: Egan's Healing JourneyIn this conversation, Egan De Los Cobos shares his profound journey through holistic healing after a life-altering accident involving his son. He discusses the physical and mental health struggles that followed, including PTSD, and the importance of seeking help. Egan emphasizes the role of nutrition, sleep, and stress management in recovery and how he transformed his experiences into a career in health coaching for first responders. His story highlights the interconnectedness of mental and physical health and the necessity of addressing both for true healing.TakeawaysEgan's journey began as a firefighter paramedic....
2025-11-071h 00
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastA Note from DadIn this conversation, Jason Meinershagen shares his journey as a firefighter and the impact of his faith on his career. He discusses the challenges of dealing with trauma and PTSD, the importance of mental health in the fire service, and how he navigates parenting while being a first responder. Jason emphasizes the need for community support and the evolution of his platform, A Note from Dad, into Five Arrows Forge, focusing on legacy building and empowering men. He concludes with key insights on identity and the importance of not defining oneself solely by their profession. takeaways Jason's journey into...
2025-10-311h 01
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastThe Unfiltered Crisis: Auditory Trauma and the Dispatcher's BattleIn this vital episode, Kevin and MaKayla welcome Jackie (@just.the.dispatcher on TikTok), our first dispatcher guest, to illuminate the often-invisible burdens of the 911 center. Jackie provides an unfiltered account of what it's like to be the first, first responder, hearing the most unfiltered moments of crisis without the ability to physically intervene.We dive deep into auditory trauma, exploring how constant exposure to the sounds of panic and terror impacts the brain, causing those calls to replay long after the headset is off. This conversation tackles:The...
2025-10-2446 min
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastAlexandra Jabr - The Science of Survival: Bridging Research & Resilience for the Frontline BrainIn this radically authentic and profound episode, Kevin and MaKayla sit down with Alexandra Jabr, Ph.D., EMT-P, the founder of Emergency Resilience. Alexandra brings a unique, vital perspective, blending her nearly 15 years as a paramedic with deep academic expertise in trauma, psychology, and grief.We dive into the Science of Survival, demystifying what happens in the brain during trauma and why it’s so hard to turn "fight-or-flight" off when the call ends. Alexandra provides a clear blueprint for resilience, covering:Trauma’s Blueprint: Why trauma is a
2025-10-171h 00
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastBeyond the Desk: The Burden of Leadership & Cultivating ResilienceIn this crucial and candid episode, Kevin sits down with Lisa and Robbie, Co-Founders of the EMS Leadership Academy, to discuss a rarely addressed topic: the emotional cost of leadership in emergency medical services. Robbie, a career paramedic and Assistant Chief, and Lisa, a 25-year business and life coach, combine frontline reality with psychological expertise.They offer a raw perspective on why the leader's chair is often the most emotionally taxing job in the field. We explore:The Unspoken Pressure: Why leaders feel compelled to be "unbreakable" and how that...
2025-10-101h 14
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastJake Belay - From Survivor to GuardianIn this radically authentic and profound conversation, Kevin and Kim sit down with Jake Belay, a former police officer, PTSD survivor, and the founder of Guardian Rise. Jake shares his deeply personal journey from being defined by the badge and trauma to discovering a healthy, sustainable path to healing.This episode is a direct conversation between peers, exploring the hard truth about the "silent war within" and the pivotal moments that separate unhealthy coping (like numbing the pain) from active, healthy healing. Jake unpacks the creation of his Guardian Rise...
2025-10-0343 min
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastHigh-Flying Stress: A Flight Nurse's Unfiltered Account of Trauma & Resiliencewe sit down with Shay Montgomery, a flight nurse and paramedic known on TikTok as @flightnurseshay. With a unique perspective shaped by her experience in air medical services, Shay offers an unfiltered account of the trauma, anxiety, and emotional burden of working in high-acuity, high-pressure environments.We discuss the mental toll of rapid decisions, the isolation of the flight environment, and the challenges of processing trauma in a job with no downtime. Shay shares her personal journey and the coping mechanisms she has developed, including the vital role of humor and the importance...
2025-09-261h 00
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastPart 2: The Unspoken Burdens: Radical Reform, Non-Lethal Defense & The Road to WellnessIn this powerful continuation, Kevin and MaKayla dive deeper into the systemic failures and personal triumphs within the healthcare system. They offer a raw and unfiltered perspective on topics that are rarely discussed, moving from problem to solution.This episode is a hard-hitting look at the "silent war within" healthcare, addressing:The need for radical reform: A candid conversation about why the current system is headed for "implosion" and how a few dedicated voices are necessary to initiate real, lasting change.The power of a listening ear: A deeply personal...
2025-09-191h 00
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastPart1: The Unspoken Burdens: A Nurse's StoryIn this two-part premiere episode, Kevin and his special guest host, Michaela Davidson, have a raw and unfiltered conversation about the reality of the healthcare system. With 10 years of nursing experience across the country, Michaela offers a unique perspective on the mental and emotional impact of her work.They dive into the difficult truths of working in a system that often prioritizes profits over people, discussing how mandated staffing ratios, budget cuts, and corporate mismanagement directly lead to burnout and compromise patient safety. The conversation is a hard-hitting look at the "silent war within" healthcare, addressing:
2025-09-191h 09
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastLogan Nix: Bridging Research & Reality of the Traumatic MindWe sit down with Logan Nix, a therapist-in-training and dedicated researcher on first responder mental health. With a unique perspective shaped by her husband’s time in the academy, Logan noticed a critical gap in mental health support and dedicated her research to bridging it. This conversation is a vital guide for every frontline hero, their family, and the mental health professionals who serve them.We dive into the neuroscience of trauma, demystifying how stress physically impacts the brain and what that means for first responders. Logan breaks down the science behind stress re...
2025-09-121h 07
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastMattie Ann: Navigating Trauma, Breaking Curses & The Reality of EMSIn this deeply personal and powerful episode, we sit down with Mattie (also known as The Redheaded Medic) to discuss her journey through paramedicine, facing trauma, and her mission to break generational cycles. Mattie shares her raw, unfiltered story, revealing the emotional toll of EMS work and the profound impact of unhealed trauma. She speaks openly about the stigma of not being okay and the immense courage it takes to seek help and heal.We explore her fight for justice and healing, as well as her advice for struggling paramedics who may feel isolated in...
2025-09-052h 04
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastBeyond the Images: Catherine PaytonIn this episode of "A Silent War Within," host Kevin Whitsell welcomes Catherine Payton, known as Rad Tech Catherine on TikTok, to discuss the unseen emotional toll of diagnostic healthcare. Catherine shares her journey from a single mom to a radiology technologist, highlighting the challenges and rewards of the profession. Together, they explore the impact of mental health on healthcare workers, the importance of empathy, and the power of sharing personal stories to break stigmas. Tune in for an insightful conversation that delves into the heart of healthcare's emotional landscape.
2025-08-291h 02
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastCoty Barker - Financial Stability as a Foundation for First Responder Mental WellnessIn this crucial episode, we sit down with Coty Barker, a unique professional who combines extensive experience as a Law Enforcement Officer & Financial Planner. Coty leads a firm exclusively dedicated to first responders, medical workers, and dispatchers, offering a perspective that directly links financial health to mental well-being.We dive into the profound impact of financial struggle on the mental health of our frontline brothers and sisters, exploring how debt, worries about retirement, and the pressure of providing can erode inner peace and affect performance on duty. Coty shares his firm's unwavering commitment to provide
2025-08-2253 min
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastThe Salty Paramedic - Humor, Hard Truths & Healing: Don't Lose Yourselfn this candid and powerful episode, we sit down with the widely recognized voice of The Salty Paramedic. He shares his extensive career journey in paramedicine and explores how his unique brand of humor serves as a vital, yet sometimes misunderstood, coping mechanism in the field.We dive deep into the raw realities of the job, discussing the emotional toll, the insidious nature of burnout, and how the cumulative impact of trauma can manifest. The Salty Paramedic bravely confronts the ingrained "suck it up" culture in EMS and its devastating effects on mental health.
2025-08-1536 min
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastShadeTree's Blueprint: Navigating ADHD, PTSD & Inner Peace in EMSIn this deeply authentic episode, we sit down with Greg Carr, the paramedic, mental health coach, and educator behind @ShadeTreeCardiology. Greg's commitment to genuine connection shines through as he shares his unique blueprint for navigating the demanding world of EMS.We dive into his personal journey with ADHD, exploring what it's like to be neurodivergent in a high-stimulus, high-stress environment, and the unique strengths and challenges it presents. Greg also bravely opens up about his profound experience with PTSD from his extensive military and EMS career, revealing how his own "silent...
2025-08-081h 33
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastSophie Fuller, @paramedic Sophie - The Unspoken BattlesIn this vital episode, we sit down with Sophie Fuller, a paramedic and powerful TikTok voice known as @paramedic Sophie. Sophie's candid, unfiltered content about the emotional toll of the job has resonated with a massive audience, and in this conversation, she takes us into the heart of the unspoken struggles.We explore her most impactful themes, including the raw reality of the "aftermath," the dangers of unhealthy coping mechanisms like substance use, and the systemic silence that often surrounds mental health in EMS. Sophie also speaks candidly about the internal toxicity of the "rumor...
2025-07-3153 min
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastDr. Rev. Sarita Anderson - Navigating the Soul's Burden: Supporting Families and Processing GreifIn this vital episode, we sit down with Reverend Dr. Sarita Wilson-Anderson, the Spiritual Care and Social Services Director at a large Children's Hospital. Dr. Anderson's unique dual role gives her profound insight into the emotional and spiritual burdens faced by frontline heroes and their families.We dive into how frontline grief differs from civilian grief, exploring the unique expressions of sorrow she encounters while supporting families in their most difficult moments. Most importantly, we discuss how the raw emotions of grieving families can transfer onto providers, and Dr. Anderson offers vital wisdom on processing...
2025-07-3156 min
A Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastJimmy Apple, @EMSAvenger - The Unseen Wounds: Authenticity, Aftermath & The Courage to HealIn this powerful episode, we’re joined by our first guest, Jimmy Apple, a paramedic and TikTok creator known as @EMSAvenger. Jimmy's raw authenticity and humor have resonated with over 67k followers, and in this conversation, he takes us deeper into the realities of life on the frontlines.We dive into his most thought-provoking themes, including the idea of "EMS attracting broken people," the profound emotional "aftermath" of tough calls, and the dangers of unhealthy coping mechanisms. Jimmy also speaks candidly about the internal toxicity of the "rumor mill" in EMS and the courageous work of...
2025-07-3150 minA Silent War Within: The First Responder & Healthcare Mental Health PodcastOur Story & Our Mission: Launching A Silent War WithinIn this foundational episode, your hosts Kevin Whitsell and Kim Burgess pull back the curtain to share their journeys and the powerful "why" behind launching this vital podcast. Kevin, a 20-year veteran firefighter and paramedic, and Kim, a 13-year pediatric transport RT, bring decades of authentic frontline experience to the microphone.Discover what initially drew them to their demanding public and healthcare service careers. Hear their candid reflections on the unseen emotional and mental tolls of the job – the cumulative stress, the silent struggles, and the moments that profoundly shaped their understanding of mental health in these pr...
2025-07-3140 min
The Peds Pod by Le Bonheur Children’s HospitalFrom Ground to Sky: How Pedi-Flite’s Transport Team WorksKevin Whitsell, a Le Bonheur Pedi-Flite manager, is here with us today to discuss Le Bonheur’s transport services. Pedi-Flite consists of pediatric and neonatal critical care nurses, respiratory therapists and paramedics who bring the intensive care unit to the patient by ambulance, helicopter or fixed-wing aircraft.
2025-06-0200 min