Episodes

Peer support can save careers, and lives. This episode reveals why Surviving Your Shift is narrowing its focus and how it will equip you to build a strong peer support culture in your organization.

Feeling “off” but can’t explain why? This episode unpacks the hidden signs of long-term traumatic stress in first responders and frontline workers—and what you can do about it.

Coming home after a tough shift and still feeling “on the clock”? Today’s episode breaks down practical strategies to create boundaries between work and home, helping first responders reclaim personal time and be fully present for what matters most.

Do negative thoughts play over and over in your head after a tough call, wondering what you could’ve done differently? It’s easy to fall into a cycle of self-criticism that erodes your confidence and makes it hard to move forward. That nagging voice in your head can feel like a constant weight pulling you down.

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the constant demands of the job? The fast pace, critical decisions, and unpredictable nature of frontline work can add up, even when we think we’re in control.

Many people miss the signs of mental health struggles and feel helpless when loved ones are at risk. This episode dives into actionable ways you can make a difference.

Growing up in a family rooted in law enforcement and education, Alan Cormier shares how his journey led him to advocate for mental health support within the first responder community. From impactful personal experiences to founding the nonprofit “With You,” Alan’s story is one of resilience and community care.

Managing stress in high-pressure careers can feel overwhelming. Today’s guest, Dr. Anna Fitch Courie, Chief Wellbeing Officer at Clemson University, shares practical strategies to help you stay mentally and physically healthy in demanding environments.

Are you struggling with burnout, stress, or feeling overwhelmed as a first responder? Retired firefighter paramedic Matthew Matty Fiorenza joins us to share his journey through PTSD and anxiety and how he’s now helping first responders find healing and support. Tune in for practical steps to protect your mental health.

Are you anxious about what life will be like after you retire? In this episode, Dr. Medina Baumgart, author of the book Surviving Retirement: Finding Purpose and Fulfillment Beyond the Badge, shares practical strategies to help you survive and thrive in retirement.

Join Bart Leger as he interviews Tiffany Atalla, a trauma therapist specializing in first responder family support. Learn how Tiffany combines her personal experience and professional expertise to strengthen first responder families and provide innovative trauma care techniques.

Navigating the intense challenges of being a first responder requires more than just physical strength. Matt Domyancic, a chaplain and former SWAT officer, shares his unique approach to wellness and spiritual care, blending fitness, mindfulness, and proactive support.

Are you struggling to leave the emotional weight of your job at work? Join Dr. David Weill, former director of Stanford’s Center for Advanced Lung Disease, as he shares how to manage the mental and emotional strain of high-stress careers using his three F’s method—Family, Friends, and Faith.

Navigating workplace politics can be a minefield. In this episode, discover practical tips to maintain your integrity and thrive in your role without getting sucked into the drama of organizational politics.

Ever faced a split-second decision that goes against your values or witnessed a tragedy you couldn’t prevent? Join us as we explore moral injury, its impact on mental health, and practical strategies to cope.

Missing family events due to shift work can be tough. Discover practical strategies to stay connected with loved ones, even when you can’t be there in person, from using technology to creating flexible celebrations.

Generational clashes at work can be a major headache. Today’s episode of “Surviving Your Shift” dives into why Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z often clash and how to turn those differences into your team’s biggest strength.

Starting a career as a first responder is tough, but knowing these ten things before you run into trouble can make all the difference. Tune in to episode 15 to learn how to stay healthy, avoid common rookie pitfalls, and thrive in your career.

Feeling like you're constantly juggling work and home life, but still ending up feeling guilty and stretched too thin? Still trying to balance it all? If you're tired of feeling guilty and exhausted, it's time to explore a more effective approach to work-life balance.

Are you looking forward to retirement but wondering if you’re fully prepared? The thought of retirement can be both exciting and scary. Bart, our host, has successfully made the transition into retirement, and he will share how you can, too.

Dealing with emotional pain and suicidal thoughts is incredibly challenging, but this episode offers hope and practical steps if you are facing these struggles. Listen now as Bart provides guidance and support for you if you’re overwhelmed by the pressures of the job and life.

Intrusive memories and images from the job can be a daily struggle for first responders. In this episode, Dr. Bart J. Leger shares practical strategies to manage these persistent thoughts and reclaim your peace of mind.

Being a first responder or working on the front lines means you’re facing stuff most people can’t imagine. Today, I’m talking with Dr. George Everly, Jr with ICISF, as he discusses how to develop what he calls Psychological Body Armor.

You may have never thought your agency’s chaplain had anything to offer you. But today’s guest, Jim Bontrager may surprise you with how down-to-earth and practical your chaplain can be when you really need them.