Épisodes

  • When The Call Hits Home | Episode 17: Exploring Parenthood, Blended Families, & Connection
    Dec 11 2024
    Hosts: - Dr. Ashlee Gethner DSW, LCSW: Licensed Clinical Professional, child of a police officer - Jennifer Woosley Saylor LPCC S: Licensed Clinical Professional, child of a police officer Guest: - Erin Quandt-Knapinski, LCSW, CCTP: Therapist and wife of a police officer Episode Overview: Join hosts Ashlee and Jennifer as they welcome Erin Quandt-Knapinski to discuss the complexities of being part of a first responder family. In this enlightening episode, Erin shares her personal and professional experiences, delving into the challenges and strategies that help navigate life with a demanding career in law enforcement. Key Topics: Avoiding Daycare: Erin discusses the initial decision to avoid daycare for her daughter, showcasing her husband's sacrifices and eventual transition from night to day shifts. The importance of balanced sleep is highlighted, setting the stage for future episodes to explore this crucial topic in-depth. Blended Families: Erin shares her experience of becoming a stepmom before having her biological child, navigating the dynamics of a blended family with first responders. Challenges of co-parenting with an unforgiving first responder schedule and the necessity for flexibility in work schedules within such families. Parental Roles and Challenges: Reflecting on the dual responsibility towards her husband and stepson, Erin emphasizes the need for balanced parenting, especially when one parent encounters extreme cases at work. The psychological impact on first responders, such as conflict avoidance and decision fatigue, affecting family interactions. Managing Household Responsibilities: Erin's struggle with managing household duties and holiday preparations alone, evoking feelings of isolation. Key reflections on how unpredictable work schedules and overtime impact family time and dynamics, especially highlighted during the pandemic. Communication and Flexibility: The critical role of preemptive communication and planning in first responder families, akin to fire drills for preparedness. Emphasis on effective communication to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts arising from challenging work schedules. Grace in Transition: Erin reflects on her husband's brief transition to a day shift after decades on the night shift, sharing the frustrations and unmet expectations. Discussion on the importance of grace for first responder families, acknowledging life's unpredictable and often messy nature. Support Systems: An exploration of the importance of meaningful connections and the need to disconnect to recharge. Erin's availability for further guidance and support based on her multifaceted experiences as a professional and family member. Conclusion: Ashlee and Jennifer commend Erin for her invaluable insights, emphasizing the need for grace, understanding, and support within first responder families. They express excitement for future episodes that will continue to explore these themes and offer valuable advice for their audience. Thank you for tuning in! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review "When The Call Hits Home" on your favorite podcast platforms! Follow Us: - Facebook: When The Call Hits Home Podcast - Instagram: @whenthecallhitshome - Whenthecallhitshome.com --- This podcast does not contain medical / health advice. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. The information contained in this podcast is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by Training Velocity LLC and while we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the Podcast or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in the podcast for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE NOR LIABLE FOR ANY ADVICE, COURSE OF TREATMENT, DIAGNOSIS OR ANY OTHER INFORMATION, SERVICES OR PRODUCTS THAT YOU OBTAIN THROUGH THIS PODCAST. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.
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    44 min
  • When The Call Hits Home | Episode 16: Navigating Life with a First Responder
    Nov 27 2024

    Hosts:

    - Dr. Ashlee Gethner DSW, LCSW: Licensed Clinical Professional, child of a police officer

    - Jennifer Woosley Saylor LPCC S: Licensed Clinical Professional, child of a police officer

    Guests:

    - Brittany Nieft, Registered Nurse and child of a police officer

    - Kaity Standerfer, Chemistry Laboratory Stockroom Manager and child of a police officer

    Summary: In this heartfelt episode of When the Call Hits Home, Dr. Ashlee Gethner is joined by her sisters, Brittany Nieft and Kaity Standerfer, to delve into the experiences of growing up with a police officer father. The siblings share candid reflections on their unique journey, exploring the joys and challenges of their upbringing.

    Main Discussion Points:

    1. Strong Family Work Ethic

    2. Impact of a Police Officer Father

    3. Family Dynamics and Struggles

    4. Handling High-Pressure Situations

    5. Bonding Through Challenges

    6. The Importance of Awareness

    7. Unique Childhood Experiences

    8. Handling Public Perception

    9. Generational Differences

    10. Special Moments and Privileges

    Thank you for tuning in! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review "When The Call Hits Home" on your favorite podcast platforms!

    Follow Us:

    - Facebook: When The Call Hits Home Podcast

    - Instagram: @whenthecallhitshome

    - Whenthecallhitshome.com

    ---

    This podcast does not contain medical / health advice. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on as health or personal advice.

    The information contained in this podcast is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by Training Velocity LLC and while we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the Podcast or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in the podcast for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk.

    WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE NOR LIABLE FOR ANY ADVICE, COURSE OF TREATMENT, DIAGNOSIS OR ANY OTHER INFORMATION, SERVICES OR PRODUCTS THAT YOU OBTAIN THROUGH THIS PODCAST.

    Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

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    46 min
  • When The Call Hits Home | Episode 15: Honoring First Responders and Their Families
    Nov 13 2024
    Hosts: - Dr. Ashlee Gethner DSW, LCSW: Licensed Clinical Professional, child of a police officer - Jennifer Woosley Saylor LPCC S: Licensed Clinical Professional, child of a police officer Guests: - Kathryn Severns Avery, Founder and Executive Director of Restoration Ranch Colorado - Ashley Braund, Licensed Professional Counselor and Teen Day Camp Facilitator at Restoration Ranch Episode Summary: In this powerful episode, hosts Jennifer and Ashlee welcome Kathryn Severns Avery and Ashley Braund to discuss the incredible work being done at Restoration Ranch Colorado. The heartfelt conversation delves into the personal stories and professional missions driving Kathryn and Ashley’s dedication to first responders and their families. Key Discussion Points: Introducing the Guests: Kathryn Severns Avery shares her background and the genesis of Restoration Ranch Colorado. Ashley Braund describes her role as a day counselor focusing on fun and bonding activities for teens. Kathryn’s Personal Story: Kathryn recounts the tragic accident, that claimed her husband Chris’s life, the emotional impact it had on her, and her compassionate decision not to sue the police involved. Restoration Ranch Colorado: The Ranch is a retreat offering recreation and respite for first responders and their families. Hosts and guests discuss the unique relationship Kathryn has built with the Lakewood Colorado Police Department. Insights into the daily activities and amenities provided at the ranch, focusing on community building and relaxation without political or religious agendas. The teen camp initiative designed to bond teens of first responder families, addressing their unique challenges and providing a supportive environment. Cultural and Emotional Impact: Kathryn’s role in the justice system post-tragedy and her efforts in law enforcement support, including a special retreat for first responders' families. Discussion on humility in accepting rewards and support, the evolving nature of psychological support, and the importance of future-oriented self-coaching. Projects and Future Plans: Highlight of Kathryn’s retirement planning initiatives, including her life planner "Your Countdown to Retirement" specifically catered to first responders. Plans for expanding teen camp initiatives beyond Colorado and the broader mission of supporting first responder families. Collaboration and Community Effort: Kathryn and Ashley’s collaborative efforts to build a safe and inclusive community for first responders’ families. The importance of addressing generational trauma and the high suicide rates within the first responder community. Final Thoughts and Contact Information: The hosts express their deep gratitude and admiration for Kathryn’s ongoing work and advocacy. Emphasize the episode’s main lesson of kindness, trust-building, and the tangible difference it makes in chaotic times. Contact Information and Further Involvement: To learn more about Restoration Ranch Colorado or arrange a visit, Website: restorationranchcolorado.com Email: visit@restorationranchcolorado.com Follow "When The Call Hits Home" on social media for updates on collaborations and future projects. Stay tuned for Kathryn's upcoming podcast and her retirement planning resources for first responders and their families. Thank you for tuning in! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review "When The Call Hits Home" on your favorite podcast platforms! Follow Us: - Facebook: When The Call Hits Home Podcast - Instagram: @whenthecallhitshome - Whenthecallhitshome.com --- This podcast does not contain medical / health advice. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. The information contained in this podcast is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by Training Velocity LLC and while we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the Podcast or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in the podcast for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE NOR LIABLE FOR ANY ADVICE, COURSE OF TREATMENT, DIAGNOSIS OR ANY OTHER INFORMATION, SERVICES OR PRODUCTS THAT YOU OBTAIN THROUGH THIS PODCAST. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.
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    50 min
  • When The Call Hits Home | Episode 14: Opening Up About Organizational Dysfunction
    Oct 30 2024

    Hosts:

    - Dr. Ashlee Gethner DSW, LCSW: Licensed Clinical Professional, child of a police officer

    - Jennifer Woosley Saylor LPCC S: Licensed Clinical Professional, child of a police officer

    Episode Summary: In this enlightening episode, hosts Jennifer and Ashlee dive deep into the intricacies of "organizational trauma" and "organizational dysfunction" within first responder environments, such as police departments and firehouses. As licensed mental health professionals and children of police officers, they provide valuable insights and personal anecdotes that resonate deeply with their experiences and those of their listeners.

    Key Topics Discussed:
    • Listener Feedback: Addressing the dynamics between siblings and humorous feedback about Jennifer’s tendency to speak over guests, linked to her being a big sister.

    • Emotional Regulation: Ashlee shares a touching personal anecdote about handling emotions after a sports event, linking it to broader themes of emotional regulation discussed on the podcast.

    • Organizational Trauma: Exploration of emotional responses to negative workplace events within first responder environments. Ashlee sheds light on the impact of complex and intertwined systems in law enforcement agencies and their connection to political environments.

    • Personal Experiences:

      • Ashlee's Childhood: Reflecting on how her father’s career as a police officer impacted their family dynamics, particularly when departmental issues were involved.

      • Jennifer's Personal Story: Her family's disappointment over an unfulfilled promotion and the subsequent effect on family morale.

    • Impact on Families:

      • Communication of Stress: Addressing how stress from first responder jobs is often communicated at home, leading to family frustration and tension.

      • Children's Perspective: Discussing the importance of first responders remembering that their children are always listening and absorbing conversations about work.

    • Organizational Dysfunction: Emphasizing the grief and loss associated with realizing that organizations may not meet familial support expectations. Real-life examples, including Ashlee’s father being reprimanded for helping a homeless woman, illustrate the conflict between personal ethics and departmental policies.

    • Interpersonal Conflicts: Highlighting the stress caused by internal organizational conflicts and the lack of training in handling these versus fieldwork training.

    • Mental Health Conversations:

      • Unaddressed Issues: The need for honest mental health conversations among first responders, often referred to as the "elephant in the room."

      • Control and Communication: Jennifer underscores the importance of recognizing controllable aspects in stressful situations and the power of active listening.

    Thank you for tuning in! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review "When The Call Hits Home" on your favorite podcast platforms!

    Follow Us:

    - Facebook: When The Call Hits Home Podcast

    - Instagram: @whenthecallhitshome

    - Whenthecallhitshome.com

    ---

    This podcast does not contain medical / health advice. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on as health or personal advice.

    The information contained in this podcast is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by Training Velocity LLC and while we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the Podcast or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in the podcast for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk.

    WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE NOR LIABLE FOR ANY ADVICE, COURSE OF TREATMENT, DIAGNOSIS OR ANY OTHER INFORMATION, SERVICES OR PRODUCTS THAT YOU OBTAIN THROUGH THIS PODCAST.

    Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

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    39 min
  • When The Call Hits Home | Episode 13: A Deep Dive into Community, Technology, and Life as a First Responder’s Child
    Oct 16 2024

    Host:

    - Jennifer Woosley Saylor LPCC S: Licensed Clinical Professional, child of a police officer

    Guest:

    - Mystery Guest (identity kept private for privacy reasons)

    Episode Summary: In this special installment of "When The Call Hits Home," Jennifer welcomes a mystery guest, a long-time friend from her past, to explore the intricate tapestry of life within first responder families, especially during childhood. They delve into various aspects of growing up with a parent in law enforcement, the evolution of community engagement, and the impact of technology on social connections.

    Key Topics Discussed:

    • Importance of Community
    • Camaraderie within the Military
    • Humorous and Reflective Childhood Memories
    • Influence of a First Responder Parent
    • Public Service and Career Reflections
    • Unique Experiences and Challenges of Off-Duty Policing
    • Personal Anecdotes and Reflections on Safety:

    Thank you for tuning in! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review "When The Call Hits Home" on your favorite podcast platforms!

    Follow Us:

    - Facebook: When The Call Hits Home Podcast

    - Instagram: @whenthecallhitshome

    - Whenthecallhitshome.com

    ---

    This podcast does not contain medical / health advice. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on as health or personal advice.

    The information contained in this podcast is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by Training Velocity LLC and while we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the Podcast or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in the podcast for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk.

    WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE NOR LIABLE FOR ANY ADVICE, COURSE OF TREATMENT, DIAGNOSIS OR ANY OTHER INFORMATION, SERVICES OR PRODUCTS THAT YOU OBTAIN THROUGH THIS PODCAST.

    Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.

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    32 min
  • When The Call Hits Home | Episode 12: Navigating Parenting, Social Media, and First Responder Families
    Oct 2 2024
    Hosts: - Dr. Ashlee Gethner DSW, LCSW: Licensed Clinical Professional, child of a police officer - Jennifer Woosley Saylor LPCC S: Licensed Clinical Professional, child of a police officer Episode Overview: In this powerful episode, Jennifer and Ashlee delve deep into the challenges and emotional complexities faced by families of first responders, with a special focus on how pervasive social media impacts parenting and mental health. Key Highlights: The Role of Caitlin: Jennifer credits Caitlin for inspiring deeper, more meaningful conversations based on personal experiences. Parenting in the Social Media Era: Tips for setting healthy boundaries, such as avoiding cell phones during family dinners. Importance of parents modeling appropriate behavior on social media. Honest Discussions About Parenting: Jennifer admits the struggles of parenting and emphasizes that it’s okay not to have all the answers. Ashlee affirms the value of sharing strategies and communication techniques. The Need for Dialogue: Crucial discussions with children about discerning factual information amidst misinformation on social media. Encouraging understanding and empathy by seeing multiple perspectives. Civic Participation: Personal anecdotes highlighting the importance of voting and civic engagement to effect positive community change. Emotional Impact on Families: Detailed insights into the significant emotional and stress-related impacts on first responder families. Ashlee’s dissertation findings reveal that families of police officers often suffer more than the officers themselves. Protecting Children of First Responders: Strategies officers use to obscure their profession to safeguard their families, leading to internal conflicts. Health Impacts Due to Stress: First responder families face issues like anxiety and medical problems due to the high-stress environment. Real-life example of a child hospitalized for seizure induced by social media-related stress. Need for Open Conversations About Mental Health: Stressed the importance of having honest conversations about mental health with children, including topics like suicide. Professional Conflicts and Bias: First responders face moral conflicts between their passion for work and the need to protect their families. Issues such as bias against police officers within social work and the lack of therapists willing to work with first responders. Personal Reflections: Differences in Jennifer and Ashlee’s experiences based on generational and geographical factors. Jennifer’s father’s international policing initiatives and the emotional toll of false accusations against him. Listener Engagement and Future Content: Encouragement to contact the hosts via social media or their website. Sneak peek into upcoming episodes featuring Thomas Rizzo, discussing organizational dysfunctions in policing. Listener Gratitude: Jennifer and Ashlee express heartfelt thanks to their over 7,000 followers and appreciate the supportive messages from listeners. Sports Team Rivalry: Ashlee cheers for Notre Dame and the Chicago Bears, while Jennifer supports the Louisville Cardinals. Thank you for tuning in! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review "When The Call Hits Home" on your favorite podcast platforms! Follow Us: - Facebook: When The Call Hits Home Podcast - Instagram: @whenthecallhitshome - Whenthecallhitshome.com --- This podcast does not contain medical / health advice. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. The information contained in this podcast is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by Training Velocity LLC and while we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the Podcast or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in the podcast for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE NOR LIABLE FOR ANY ADVICE, COURSE OF TREATMENT, DIAGNOSIS OR ANY OTHER INFORMATION, SERVICES OR PRODUCTS THAT YOU OBTAIN THROUGH THIS PODCAST. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.
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    40 min
  • When The Call Hits Home | Episode 11: Understanding the Silent Burden
    Sep 18 2024
    Hosts: - Dr. Ashlee Gethner DSW, LCSW: Licensed Clinical Professional, child of a police officer - Jennifer Woosley Saylor LPCC S: Licensed Clinical Professional, child of a police officer Guest: - Caitlin Sturges: Daughter of a police officer, sister to a police commander and a firefighter paramedic, niece to a police officer, finishing her graduate studies in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis Episode Summary: In this enlightening and deeply personal episode, Ashlee and Jennifer sit down with Caitlin Sturges, who shares the complexities and challenges of growing up in a law enforcement family. Caitlin’s unique perspectives and experiences as the daughter and sister of first responders provide a heartfelt and informative discussion about the impacts of this lifestyle on families. Key Discussion Points: Caitlin's Background - Raised in a law enforcement family, influenced by her father's work in the police force and the strong bond shared with her siblings due to their similar upbringing. Perceptions of Law Enforcement - Caitlin's transition from a positive view of law enforcement during childhood to navigating complex societal perceptions in adulthood. Behavioral Analysis Focus - Caitlin's graduate thesis aimed at bridging the gap between police training and understanding the functions of behavior to improve police response and reduce profiling. Personal Sacrifices - The conversation delves into the personal sacrifices and traumas experienced by first responder families and the effects on family dynamics. Secondary Trauma - Discussion about how Caitlin and her siblings process the secondary trauma from their father's and brother's high-risk professions. Media Portrayal - Caitlin critiques the negative portrayal of law enforcement in the media and emphasizes the importance of recognizing the human side of first responders. Caitlin's Research - Insights into Caitlin’s research on civil unrest, policing statistics, and the need for behavioral training for experienced officers. Sibling Relationships - The strong, protective bond Caitlin shares with her brothers, influenced by their shared experiences and childhood. Divorce and Bonding - The role their parents' divorce played in strengthening the sibling relationship and the consistent communication with their father. Humor and Camaraderie - Stories of humorous interactions and rivalries between police officers and firefighters, reflecting the camaraderie among first responders. Field Gaps - The need for more research and resources focused on law enforcement within behavioral analysis. Future Aspirations - Caitlin's goal to develop comprehensive training programs for police officers, highlighting the need for better understanding and response mechanisms. Humorous Stories: A naked man in a trench coat causing chaos near a pet cemetery, demonstrating the unpredictability and sometimes humorous side of police work. Ashlee's dad’s fear of bats and a memorable encounter trying to remove a bat from a house. Personal Reflections: Caitlin and Ashlee share their personal struggles with societal perceptions of law enforcement and how it impacted their upbringing and current lives. Reflecting on the balance between professional responsibilities and personal experiences, especially in their roles as social workers and counselors. Listener Takeaways: Understanding the unique challenges faced by children and families of first responders. Encouraging open dialogue and support for families affected by the demands of law enforcement professions. Highlighting the need for comprehensive behavioral training in law enforcement to foster better understanding and community relations. Conclusion: Thank you to Caitlin Sturges for her insightful contribution to this important discussion and for her pioneering work in behavioral analysis within law enforcement. Listeners are encouraged to reach out if interested in Caitlin's program or to share their own experiences as children of first responders. Thank you for tuning in! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review "When The Call Hits Home" on your favorite podcast platforms! Follow Us: - Facebook: When The Call Hits Home Podcast - Instagram: @whenthecallhitshome - Whenthecallhitshome.com --- This podcast does not contain medical / health advice. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. The information contained in this podcast is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by Training Velocity LLC and while we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the Podcast or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in the podcast for any ...
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    56 min
  • When The Call Hits Home | Bonus Episode: 2024 Kenosha County EMS Olympics
    Sep 14 2024
    When The Call Hits Home Bonus Episode: 2024 Kenosha County EMS Olympics Hosts: - Dr. Ashlee Gethner DSW, LCSW: Licensed Clinical Professional, child of a police officer - Jennifer Woosley Saylor LPCC S: Licensed Clinical Professional, child of a police officer Guests: - Chris Oliver: Firefighter at Pleasant Prairie Fire Department. Seven years of experience, with a background in the military and previous experience at the Bristol Fire Department. - Ben Kessel: Associate Medical Director for Kenosha County EMS with 24 years in EMS, including roles as EMT, firefighter paramedic, and physician assistant in emergency medicine. Also involved with medical training, education, and the sheriff’s department tactical response team. Episode Overview: In this special bonus episode, we dive into the 2024 EMS Olympics event, which brings together first responders from various disciplines to compete, learn, and build stronger community bonds. Hosts Ashlee and Jennifer, alongside guests Chris Oliver and Ben Kessel, explore the unique culture of public safety professions and the importance of events like the EMS Olympics for training, camaraderie, and mental health support. Key Topics Discussed: 1. Public Safety Culture: - Emphasis on the solidarity and community support within public safety professions. - The prevalent concept of brotherhood/sisterhood among first responders. 2. EMS Olympics Event: - Purpose: Raise funds for a scholarship to provide additional training for police officers and firefighters. - Event Benefits: Training, networking, and building professional support systems. - Location: Bristol Woods Forest Preserve, Kenosha County. - Event Components: A roughly 2-mile course with physical and mental challenge stations simulating critical real-life scenarios. - Participation: Teams of three carrying a collective weight of 60 pounds. - Atmosphere: Shared experiences, awards, and lunch post-event. 3. Positive Impact: - Promoting the bravery and sacrifices of public safety workers. - Highlighting positive stories to counter negative media narratives. 4. Training, Budget, and Recruitment Challenges: - Discussing budget constraints and the need for continuous training. - Addressing recruitment and retention challenges in public safety roles. 5. Fitness and Wellness: - Focusing on the importance of fitness for job performance and injury prevention. - Inclusion of communication and cognitive components in the event challenges. **How to Get Involved:** - Visit the event’s website to register your team or learn more. https://www.kcemsolympics.org/ - Check out past event photos and beneficiary stories. - Donate via the QR code to support the scholarship fund if you can't attend in person. Closing Notes: Hosts Ashlee and Jennifer express their commitment to promoting and supporting the EMS Olympics and similar initiatives through their platforms. They highlight the critical role of community support in enhancing training, building professional bonds, and addressing mental health issues within the public safety community. **Thank you for tuning in!** Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review "When The Call Hits Home" on your favorite podcast platforms! Follow Us: - Facebook: When The Call Hits Home Podcast - Instagram: @whenthecallhitshome - Whenthecallhitshome.com --- This podcast does not contain medical / health advice. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. The information contained in this podcast is for general information purposes only. The information is provided by Training Velocity LLC and while we endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the Podcast or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in the podcast for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE NOR LIABLE FOR ANY ADVICE, COURSE OF TREATMENT, DIAGNOSIS OR ANY OTHER INFORMATION, SERVICES OR PRODUCTS THAT YOU OBTAIN THROUGH THIS PODCAST. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have heard on this podcast.
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    33 min