A Duty To Act

In this episode, Jennifer Darling interviews Bill and Rebecca Dane, a married couple who are both first responders. They share their journey of meeting in the fire service, navigating their careers while maintaining a strong relationship, and the challenges of parenting in a first responder family. The conversation delves into their experiences with work-life balance, the impact of shift work on family dynamics, and the importance of trust and communication in their marriage. As they approach retirement, they reflect on their identities as first responders and their hopes for the future together.takeawaysBill and Rebecca met while working in the fire service.They emphasize the importance of professionalism in their relationship at work.Parenting in a first responder family requires careful planning and communication.They have successfully balanced their careers and family life despite the challenges.Trust and understanding each other's stressors are crucial in their relationship.They have developed a strong partnership in both parenting and their professional lives.Bill's transition to a leadership role brought new challenges to their family dynamics.They both value the importance of shared responsibilities in parenting.As they approach retirement, they reflect on their identities as first responders.They look forward to spending more time together and exploring new hobbies after retirement.

summaryIn this conversation, filmmaker Conrad Weaver discusses his journey into creating the documentary PTSD 911, which focuses on the mental health struggles of first responders. He emphasizes the importance of community engagement through screening events and the need for mental health training within first responder organizations. The discussion also touches on the impact of childhood experiences on resilience, the role of leadership in promoting wellness, and the personal stories of individuals featured in the documentary. Conrad's podcast serves as a platform to continue the conversation around mental health solutions for first responders. takeawaysConrad Weaver is a filmmaker focused on first responder wellness.The documentary PTSD 911 highlights the mental health struggles of first responders.Screening events foster community discussions about mental health.Childhood experiences significantly impact first responders' resilience.PTSD affects not only work performance but personal lives as well.The stories of Nicole, Matt, and Desiree illustrate the human impact of PTSD.Mental health training is crucial for first responders.Leadership plays a vital role in promoting wellness in organizations.Coping mechanisms vary among individuals based on their experiences.Conrad's podcast aims to provide solutions for first responders' mental health challenges.

In this episode, Jennifer Darling and Josh Darling discuss the concept of 'shift meal' and its significance in fostering camaraderie and teamwork among first responders. They explore various experiences from different departments, the impact of shared meals on workplace culture, and the mental health benefits associated with communal dining. The conversation also highlights specific examples of successful shift meals, including taco nights and cooking competitions, emphasizing the importance of food as a unifying force in high-stress environments.  

In this engaging conversation, Jennifer and Mike Carunchio delve into the world of podcasting, particularly within the EMS community. Mike shares his journey from being a paramedic to starting 'The Okayest Medic Podcast,' discussing the challenges and rewards of creating educational content. They explore the importance of real-life case studies, the ethical considerations of sharing patient information, and the impact of social media on the profession. Mike also reflects on the risks of sharing opinions in a public forum and the balance between monetization and maintaining authenticity in podcasting. The discussion highlights the significance of networking, time management, and the evolving landscape of EMS education.  

SummaryIn this conversation, Jennifer Darling and Warren Olson discuss the evolution of fire protection, the importance of continuing education, and the role of mentorship in the fire service. They explore Warren's extensive career, his involvement with the NFPA, and the challenges faced in fire safety regulations. The discussion highlights the significance of teaching and the impact of major fire incidents on current safety practices.takeawaysMICE aims to simplify continuing education for providers and administrators.Warren Olson has over 50 years of experience in fire protection.He emphasizes the importance of mentorship in the fire service.Generational changes have improved firefighter health and safety.Teaching has been a passion for Warren throughout his career.NFPA technical committees play a crucial role in developing fire safety codes.Challenges in fire safety regulations are influenced by special interest groups.Lessons from past fire incidents shape current safety practices.The pendulum of fire safety regulations swings with public perception.Warren's journey reflects the importance of continuous learning in fire protection.Sound Bites"I've been doing this a long time.""Teaching gives me the greatest joy.""The codes are being chipped away."Chapters00:00Introduction to MICE and TrackMyCE.io01:25Warren Olson's Journey in Fire Protection05:55Career Progression and Experiences in Fire Service11:52Generational Changes in Fire Service17:52The Importance of Teaching and Mentorship23:52Involvement with NFPA Technical Committees29:54Challenges in Fire Safety Regulations35:56Lessons from Major Fire Incidents41:33Reflections on Fire Safety and Future Directions

In this conversation, Dr. Ryan Keay discusses the Zero Point Survey, a framework for improving pre-hospital care by emphasizing self-check, team dynamics, and environmental awareness before patient assessment. The discussion highlights the importance of mental readiness, effective communication, and emotional resilience in emergency medical services (EMS). Dr. Keay shares practical insights on how to implement these concepts in real-world scenarios, aiming to enhance the quality of care provided to patients.  

SummaryIn this conversation, Jennifer Darling and Dave Pethick discuss the generational challenges faced in the fire service, focusing on the dynamics between different age groups, particularly millennials and Gen Z. They explore how these generational differences impact leadership, teamwork, and hiring practices. The discussion also highlights innovative approaches to recruitment and the importance of diversity in thought and experience within fire departments. The conversation emphasizes the need for mentorship and adapting to change while maintaining valuable traditions in the fire service. This conversation explores the evolving landscape of leadership styles across generations, particularly in the fire service. The speakers discuss the differences between transactional and transformational leadership, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and respect for individual strengths in managing a multi-generational workforce. They highlight the significance of engagement in learning, the impact of workplace culture, and the misconceptions surrounding work ethic among different generations. The discussion also touches on the challenges of bridging technological gaps and the importance of mentorship in fostering growth and understanding within teams.TakeawaysGenerational differences influence workplace dynamics and leadership styles.Millennials and Gen Z have unique perspectives shaped by their upbringing.Understanding the 'why' is crucial for engaging younger generations.Diversity of thought enhances problem-solving and innovation in teams.Mentorship plays a vital role in bridging generational gaps.Innovative hiring practices can attract a diverse applicant pool.Traditional methods may need to be adapted to meet modern needs.Teamwork is essential in the fire service, leveraging strengths from all generations.Cultural shifts in parenting have impacted the skills of new recruits.Embracing change while respecting tradition is key to progress. Transactional leadership is necessary in certain situations.Transformational leadership appeals across generations.Adaptability is key in managing diverse teams.Respect for individual strengths enhances leadership effectiveness.Engagement in learning is crucial for both leaders and followers.Workplace culture shapes how teams interact and succeed.Generational differences in work ethic should be understood, not judged.Mistakes are part of the learning process in leadership.Technology can create barriers but also opportunities for learning.Effective communication is essential in a multi-generational workforce.

summaryIn this episode of A Duty to Act, host Jennifer Darling speaks with Mike Hilley, a retiring administrator and paramedic with over 30 years of experience in emergency medical services. Mike shares his journey from the Coast Guard to becoming a firefighter and paramedic, discussing the challenges and rewards of his career. He reflects on the evolution of EMS, the importance of community service, and the future of paramedicine in addressing modern healthcare challenges. This conversation explores the integration of community health into emergency medical services (EMS), the evolving career pathways for paramedics, and innovative approaches to address the opioid crisis through medication-assisted treatment. The discussion highlights the importance of building a behavioral health campus to provide comprehensive care and the significance of leadership in EMS.takeawaysMike Hilley has over 30 years of experience in EMS.His career began in the Coast Guard, where he was encouraged to serve his community.He transitioned from the Coast Guard to the fire department in Juneau, Alaska.Mike's early experiences included volunteering in hospitals and fire departments.He became a paramedic after completing a program in King County.Mike worked for nearly 28 years at the Redmond Fire Department before becoming EMS Director in Bellingham.He emphasizes the importance of data in improving EMS systems.Mike's education includes a master's degree in health sciences managing emergency services.He discusses the challenges EMS faces with modern issues like behavioral health and the opioid crisis.Mike hopes to influence the future of EMS through technology and community engagement. Community health integration is essential for effective EMS.Paramedics need diverse career pathways to maintain engagement.Innovative mobile health programs can address community needs.The opioid crisis requires urgent and multifaceted responses.Medication-assisted treatment is a critical tool in emergency care.Behavioral health resources are vital for comprehensive patient care.Leadership in EMS can drive positive change in communities.Grants and funding are crucial for developing health programs.Overcoming barriers to wellness is a community effort.Reflecting on a career in EMS highlights the importance of service.

SummaryIn this conversation, Jennifer interviews Sonia Jorgensen, a US Navy veteran and founder of Hooves and Heroes, a nonprofit organization that connects veterans and first responders with horses for therapeutic experiences. Sonia shares her journey of founding the organization, the healing power of horses, and how they provide immediate feedback to humans about their emotional and physical states. The discussion delves into the importance of awareness, community, and the unique approach of equine assisted learning as a supportive method for mental health without the stigma of traditional therapy. In this conversation, Sonia Jorgensen discusses her journey in healthcare leadership, the impact of COVID-19 on her career, and the lack of support for first responders. She emphasizes the importance of community and resources for mental health, particularly for first responders and veterans. Sonia introduces equine-assisted learning as a therapeutic approach that helps individuals regulate their emotions and connect with their environment through interactions with horses. The discussion covers various exercises and techniques used in sessions, highlighting the benefits of breathwork and the horse-human connection in emotional healing.  

summaryIn this conversation, state representative Peter Abbarno discusses House Bill 1002, which aims to provide PTSD coverage for medical examiners and coroners in Washington State. He shares insights on the unique stresses faced by these professionals, the legislative process involved in authoring the bill, and the importance of community input in shaping policy. The discussion also touches on the funding mechanisms for the bill and the broader implications for public service providers dealing with mental health issues. In this conversation, Peter Abbarno discusses the importance of addressing stress and PTSD in first responders, his journey into politics driven by a desire to improve his community, and his current legislative focus on securing funding for fire districts. He emphasizes the need for community engagement in the legislative process and encourages individuals to share their ideas with their representatives.takeawaysThe bill aims to recognize PTSD for medical examiners and coroners.Community input is crucial for effective legislation.Medical examiners are often overlooked in discussions about PTSD.The average tenure for medical legal death investigators is about five years.Funding for the bill comes from the existing workers' compensation system.PTSD treatment can be complex and costly.The bill is currently in the rules committee awaiting further action.There is a significant need for stress mitigation resources for these professionals.Legislators often hear about issues directly from constituents.The bill has the potential to impact a small but important group of workers. We need to do a better job identifying stressors.First responders require adequate treatment for PTSD.Community engagement is crucial for effective legislation.Peter Abbarno's political journey is driven by family values.Funding for fire districts is essential for community safety.Legislators are accessible and open to new ideas.Grants for fire districts can improve infrastructure and resources.Public service should be motivated by community needs.The legislative process can take time and persistence.Successful policy ideas often originate from community input.

summaryIn this conversation, Jennifer and Brooke Lundquist discuss the importance of mental health and wellness for first responders. They explore the challenges faced by first responders, the significance of establishing relationships with counselors, and the innovative EMDR therapy that helps process trauma. Brooke shares her journey into counseling first responders and emphasizes the need for accessible mental health resources. The discussion highlights the evolving perception of mental health in the first responder community and the importance of proactive wellness strategies. In this conversation, Jennifer and Brooke Lundquist discuss the challenges faced by first responders, particularly in managing stress and communication within relationships. They explore the impact of shift work on family dynamics, the importance of emotional support animals, and the integration of mental health training in paramedic programs. The discussion also delves into retirement planning, emphasizing the need for self-awareness and identity beyond work. Additionally, they introduce a new support group for female first responders, highlighting the importance of community and shared experiences in navigating the unique challenges of their profession.takeawaysBrooke Lundquist is passionate about first responder wellness and mental health.EMDR therapy is effective for processing trauma.First responders often face unique challenges that require specialized support.Establishing a relationship with a counselor before a crisis is beneficial.Mental health is becoming a new norm in first responder training.Proactive wellness strategies are essential for first responders.Counseling can include individual and couples therapy for first responders.Building rapport with mental health providers removes barriers to seeking help.First responders should know where to find mental health resources.The stigma around mental health in first responders is decreasing. The stress of first responder jobs can impact family communication.Shift work creates unique challenges for relationships.Replenishment and capacity are essential for wellness.Emotional support animals can provide significant comfort.Mental health training is crucial for paramedics.Retirement planning should include identity and purpose.Self-awareness is key to a successful transition into retirement.Community support is vital for female first responders.Counseling should be normalized for those in helping professions.Accessible mental health resources are important for first responders.

In this episode, Jennifer interviews Sofia Kohfield, the executive director of ICOM 911, discussing the intricacies of dispatching, the challenges faced by dispatchers, and the importance of wellness in this high-stress environment. They explore the recruitment and training processes, the unique challenges of operating on Whidbey Island, and the technological limitations that impact emergency response. The conversation highlights the critical role dispatchers play as first responders and the need for community support to enhance their capabilities.takeawaysDispatchers handle a variety of calls, making each day unique.The recruitment process includes a critical test and extensive training.Wellness programs are essential for dispatchers due to the stress of the job.Dispatchers often do not receive closure on calls, adding to their stress.Training includes emergency medical dispatch protocols for life-saving instructions.ICOM 911 faces unique challenges due to the island's geography and staffing.Technological upgrades are necessary for improved communication and response.Community support is vital for funding and resources for ICOM 911.The dispatch center has implemented wellness initiatives like treadmills and quiet rooms. 

In this episode of 'A Duty to Act', Jennifer Darling and her husband Josh discuss the importance of activating communities through social media for public service agencies. They explore the need for effective marketing strategies, the significance of establishing a unique brand identity, and the role of authenticity in social media personas. The conversation also covers various content creation strategies to engage the community and highlights the types of content that can be effective for public service agencies while cautioning against content that could harm the department's reputation. The conversation delves into the importance of understanding and engaging with the community through social media, emphasizing the need for targeted content creation, effective use of various platforms, and the establishment of clear social media policies. The speakers discuss strategies for crowdsourcing content, maximizing the longevity of posts, and the significance of regular engagement to build relationships with the community.Social media is essential for community engagement.Public service agencies must market themselves effectively.Brand identity goes beyond logos; it's about mission and values.Establishing a voice on social media is crucial.Authenticity in social media personas builds trust.Video content is more engaging than static images.Community engagement can enhance recruitment efforts.Content should reflect the department's ethos.Avoid posting content that could damage the department's reputation.Engagement strategies should focus on showing the human side of public service. Understanding your audience is crucial for effective communication.Creating personas based on community demographics can enhance content relevance.Crowdsourcing content can significantly boost engagement and variety.Engaging with the community through social media fosters trust and connection.Establishing a clear social media policy is essential for managing content and interactions.Less than 30% of nonprofits have a social media policy, highlighting a gap in the sector.YouTube offers the longest content lifespan compared to other platforms.Regular posting helps maintain visibility and community engagement.Not every post needs to be high production; authenticity matters.Building relationships with the community enhances support during critical times.

takeawaysThe journey into medicine can be driven by personal experiences and a desire for fulfillment.Wages for EMS professionals are often inadequate, leading to financial insecurity.Investing in the human element of healthcare is crucial for success.Wellness and self-care are essential for EMS professionals to perform effectively.Community integration is vital for the future of EMS services.Metrics for success in EMS should focus on patient outcomes rather than arbitrary response times.Mental health challenges are prevalent in EMS and need to be addressed.The importance of teamwork and support among colleagues in high-stress environments.Self-care practices, such as eating and resting, are critical for EMS providers.The evolution of EMS requires adapting to new challenges and redefining success.

In this conversation, Jennifer and Bobbie Merica discuss the innovative approaches to training first responders through realistic simulations and moulage techniques. Bobbie shares her journey from personal trauma to creating Moulage Concepts, a company dedicated to enhancing training for emergency responders. They explore the importance of resilience in both training and personal experiences, emphasizing the need for community support and engagement in mental health initiatives. The discussion highlights the significance of storytelling in training and the impact of immersive experiences on learning outcomes.  

takeawaysDr. Corsa has a diverse background in public service and EMS, including working as a firefighter, paramedic, and trauma surgeon.Providing medical care in rural and isolated areas presents unique challenges, such as limited access to hospitals and unreliable transportation.Having progressive protocols, advanced equipment, and highly skilled paramedics is crucial in delivering quality care in remote locations.Pre-hospital innovations, such as ultrasound and ventilators, have significantly improved patient care and outcomes.Longevity and experience among paramedics in remote areas can be both beneficial and challenging, as retirements may lead to the need for training new personnel. The greatest innovation in EMS is the increased knowledge and capabilities of paramedics and EMTs.Advancements in equipment, such as the stair chair and power stretcher, have greatly improved patient care.Safety is a crucial aspect of helicopter operations, and the dedication of rescue technicians is commendable.Medical program directors play a vital role in coordinating and implementing programs to address the opioid crisis.Buprenorphine can be used in the field to help patients in withdrawal and connect them with follow-up care.Prolonged field care requires a different mindset and planning to provide care in remote and austere environments. The future of EMS lies in recognizing the importance of tailoring care to the specific needs of each community.Critical thinking skills are essential in EMS and should be integrated into training programs.Coordination and communication are crucial in mass casualty incidents, involving multiple agencies and organizations.Comprehensive triage systems, such as the RAMP method, can help prioritize patients in mass casualty incidents.There is a need for improved pre-hospital pain management, including the use of over-the-counter medications, which could be administered by EMTs.

takeawaysDr. Corsa has a diverse background in public service and EMS, including working as a firefighter, paramedic, and trauma surgeon.Providing medical care in rural and isolated areas presents unique challenges, such as limited access to hospitals and unreliable transportation.Having progressive protocols, advanced equipment, and highly skilled paramedics is crucial in delivering quality care in remote locations.Pre-hospital innovations, such as ultrasound and ventilators, have significantly improved patient care and outcomes.Longevity and experience among paramedics in remote areas can be both beneficial and challenging, as retirements may lead to the need for training new personnel. The greatest innovation in EMS is the increased knowledge and capabilities of paramedics and EMTs.Advancements in equipment, such as the stair chair and power stretcher, have greatly improved patient care.Safety is a crucial aspect of helicopter operations, and the dedication of rescue technicians is commendable.Medical program directors play a vital role in coordinating and implementing programs to address the opioid crisis.Buprenorphine can be used in the field to help patients in withdrawal and connect them with follow-up care.Prolonged field care requires a different mindset and planning to provide care in remote and austere environments. The future of EMS lies in recognizing the importance of tailoring care to the specific needs of each community.Critical thinking skills are essential in EMS and should be integrated into training programs.Coordination and communication are crucial in mass casualty incidents, involving multiple agencies and organizations.Comprehensive triage systems, such as the RAMP method, can help prioritize patients in mass casualty incidents.There is a need for improved pre-hospital pain management, including the use of over-the-counter medications, which could be administered by EMTs.

TakeawaysArriving in the middle of a call can be dangerous as you may not be aware of the dynamics and tensions already present.Compassion fatigue can lead to a lack of empathy and compassion, which can impact patient care and increase the risk of violence.It is important for first responders to reconnect with their purpose and maintain a compassionate mindset to avoid burnout and negative interactions with patients.Having a clear and universal code for calling for help in emergency situations can improve communication and response times. Seeking professional help for mental health is crucial, especially in traumatic situations.Departments should prioritize mental health and create robust mental health programs.Sleep is essential for overall health and wellness, and shift workers face unique challenges in getting adequate sleep.Informal peer support has its limitations, and professional help may be necessary in certain situations. The aftermath of the stabbing incident had a significant impact on Benjamin and his crew, leading to silence and a lack of communication within the crew.Benjamin expressed concern for his captain and crew members who did not seek mental health help, highlighting the importance of mental health support in the fire department.The concept of administrative betrayal was discussed, emphasizing the need for departments to carefully consider the discipline they impose and the potential impact on individuals' mental health.Benjamin emphasized the need for more education and training on mental health at every rank in the department to create a better understanding and support system.Sound Bites"I was blown away by that, that paradigm shift of calling it that.""The entire fight lasted less than five seconds.""I was not a very nice person... I was bitter and burned out.""If I could go back and anything, would just help my guys be compassionate again, know, make sure they're rested and remind them of why we do this job so that when we're on scene, we are better patient caregivers.""What is it that launches your instinct?""You can only [pass judgment] when you are an expert in that field.""We're not going to talk about the stabbing, okay?""That's a very strange dynamic.""The skyscraper in the room"

TakeawaysArriving in the middle of a call can be dangerous as you may not be aware of the dynamics and tensions already present.Compassion fatigue can lead to a lack of empathy and compassion, which can impact patient care and increase the risk of violence.It is important for first responders to reconnect with their purpose and maintain a compassionate mindset to avoid burnout and negative interactions with patients.Having a clear and universal code for calling for help in emergency situations can improve communication and response times. Seeking professional help for mental health is crucial, especially in traumatic situations.Departments should prioritize mental health and create robust mental health programs.Sleep is essential for overall health and wellness, and shift workers face unique challenges in getting adequate sleep.Informal peer support has its limitations, and professional help may be necessary in certain situations. The aftermath of the stabbing incident had a significant impact on Benjamin and his crew, leading to silence and a lack of communication within the crew.Benjamin expressed concern for his captain and crew members who did not seek mental health help, highlighting the importance of mental health support in the fire department.The concept of administrative betrayal was discussed, emphasizing the need for departments to carefully consider the discipline they impose and the potential impact on individuals' mental health.Benjamin emphasized the need for more education and training on mental health at every rank in the department to create a better understanding and support system.Sound Bites"I was blown away by that, that paradigm shift of calling it that.""The entire fight lasted less than five seconds.""I was not a very nice person... I was bitter and burned out.""If I could go back and anything, would just help my guys be compassionate again, know, make sure they're rested and remind them of why we do this job so that when we're on scene, we are better patient caregivers.""What is it that launches your instinct?""You can only [pass judgment] when you are an expert in that field.""We're not going to talk about the stabbing, okay?""That's a very strange dynamic.""The skyscraper in the room"