From Volunteer to Battalion Chief: Inside the Fire Service with Jarvis Bedford
Release Date: 03/18/2024
A New Era in First Responder Mental Health: The 2nd Alarm Project Joins Forces with UCF RESTORES
2nd Alarm Project Radio
In this exciting episode of 2nd Alarm Project Radio, we break down a game-changing partnership between UCF RESTORES and the 2nd Alarm Project. Host Mike Bellamy is joined by two pioneers in first responder mental health—Dr. Deborah Beidel, Executive Director of UCF RESTORES, and Dr. Kellie O’Dare, Deputy Director, UCF RESTORES & founder of the 2nd Alarm Project—to discuss what this collaboration means for the future of behavioral health support. This merger is a major step toward expanding access to evidence-based treatments for first responders, with a strong focus on peer support,...
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The Impacts of Service: Understanding Moral Injury in First Responders
2nd Alarm Project Radio
In this compelling episode of 2nd Alarm Project Radio, we dive into the often-overlooked topic of moral injury with Wendy Norris, a firefighter, certified grief educator, and founder of the Texas Line of Duty Task Force. Wendy shares her journey in the fire service, spanning over 30 years, and how a devastating career-ending injury reshaped her purpose. Wendy explains moral injury—a spiritual and emotional wound that arises when personal values or beliefs are violated—and its profound impact on first responders. She discusses how it differs from post-traumatic stress and why...
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Stories That Shaped the Year | Our 2024 Year in Review Episode
2nd Alarm Project Radio
Stories That Shaped the Year | Our 2024 Year in Review Episode In this special year-in-review episode, we take you on a journey through the highlights of Second Alarm Project Radio's inaugural year. From insightful conversations with mental health experts to powerful stories of resilience from first responders, we revisit the moments that made the biggest impact. We dive into topics like the Struggle Well framework, Behavioral Health Navigation, peer support initiatives, and critical incident response. Join us as we reflect on the lessons we’ve learned, celebrate the growth we’ve achieved,...
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From Darkness to Light: Deputy Bruce’s Journey to Wellness and the Importance of First Responders Focusing on Mental Health
2nd Alarm Project Radio
In this powerful episode of 2nd Alarm Project Radio, hosts Mike Bellamy and Dr. Kellie O'Dare continue the critical conversation on suicide prevention in the first responder community. Joined by Deputy Heather Bruce, a 17-year law enforcement veteran from Northwest Florida, we explore the deeply personal and professional challenges Heather has faced throughout her career. From her early days as a crime scene technician to her journey as a law enforcement officer, Heather shares her story of trauma, emotional compartmentalization, and the moment she reached out for help after battling...
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Rethinking Suicide Risk: Organizational Strategies to Protect First Responders
2nd Alarm Project Radio
In this episode of 2nd Alarm Project Radio to coincide with National Suicide Prevention Month, Dr. Kellie O'Dare, Executive Director and Founder of 2AP, joins as a guest DJ as we explore suicide awareness and prevention among first responders with Chief Dena Ali. We explore her journey from law enforcement to firefighting and her transition into mental health advocacy. Our discussion covers the importance of leadership in creating a psychologically safe environment, the challenges of sharing mental health struggles in the first responder community, and practical strategies for building...
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How to Build a Peer Support Team | Strategies for Success from the Frontlines
2nd Alarm Project Radio
In this episode, we have a special show as we welcome Guest DJ, Jeff Orrange from 2AP/Orlando Fire Department and explore the process of building peer support within your department and address the unique challenges faced by first responders, especially in law enforcement. Nicole Troelstrup, Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified First Responder Counselor and Peer Team Member, Sergeant Rachel Keller from the Leon County Sheriff's Office (Tallahassee, FL), join us to share their insights and experiences in creating a successful peer support team. We discuss the barriers to implementing...
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Peers, Preparedness & Paws: Building Stronger Teams for Disaster Response
2nd Alarm Project Radio
In this episode, we delve into the crucial role of peer support during a disaster response. As hurricane season is upon us, we uncover the importance of mental health and readiness for first responders. We welcome special guests Panama City Firefighter Amanda Scoggin, who shares her experiences with peer support teams and her certified therapy dog, and Director JoAnne Rice from the Florida Division of State Fire Marshal, who provides insights on integrating peer support into disaster deployments. Join us to learn about the resilience and strength within Florida’s fire service community and...
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Burnout to Balance: Examining The Fire Service Workweek
2nd Alarm Project Radio
In this episode, we uncover the hottest topic in the fire service today, modifying the firefighter work schedule. You’ll learn how the 2nd Alarm Project is collaborating with Florida State University on a study to look at the mental wellness impacts of a 24/72 workweek coming to the Gainesville Fire Rescue Department. Nick Gonzalez, GFR Lieutenant & IAFF Local President shares insights on the challenges and benefits of this shift. Dr. Kyle Smith from FSU joins the discussion to provide an academic perspective on the study. Dr. Smith discusses the partnership with Dr. Kellie O’Dare...
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Courage Under Fire: A Detective’s Life Changed Forever
2nd Alarm Project Radio
In this episode, guests Dan and Christine Brite recount their journeys into law enforcement, including a life-altering event in 2016. They share their experiences of facing challenges, overcoming adversity, and finding purpose through their work with the Douglas County Colorado Sheriff's Office. With the support of department leadership, Dan has transformed the agency's culture, emphasizing the importance of mental health support for responders and their families. Listeners will gain insight into the impact of trauma, the power of resilience, and the importance of building strong...
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From Volunteer to Battalion Chief: Inside the Fire Service with Jarvis Bedford
2nd Alarm Project Radio
From Volunteer to Battalion Chief: Inside the Fire Service with Jarvis Bedford In this episode, we welcome retired Tallahassee Fire Department Battalion Chief, Jarvis Bedford, as a guest. Jarvis shares his compelling journey from a young volunteer in Dover Delaware to a seasoned firefighter in Tallahassee, offering insights into the trials and triumphs of his career. Listeners are invited to join the conversation as Jarvis and Mike discuss the importance of peer support and the role it played in Jarvis's life. They delve into the complexities of the firefighting profession, touching on topics...
info_outlineFrom Volunteer to Battalion Chief: Inside the Fire Service with Jarvis Bedford
In this episode, we welcome retired Tallahassee Fire Department Battalion Chief, Jarvis Bedford, as a guest. Jarvis shares his compelling journey from a young volunteer in Dover Delaware to a seasoned firefighter in Tallahassee, offering insights into the trials and triumphs of his career.
Listeners are invited to join the conversation as Jarvis and Mike discuss the importance of peer support and the role it played in Jarvis's life. They delve into the complexities of the firefighting profession, touching on topics such as coping mechanisms, mental health challenges, and finding strength in adversity. Tune in now and leave us your feedback at www.2ndalarmproject.com/contact
Thank you for tuning into 2nd Alarm Project Radio, be sure and stay connected with us on social media, download the app or visit us online at https://2ndalarmproject.org/
***Show Notes***
Host: Mike Bellamy
Guest: Retired Tallahassee Fire Department Battalion Chief Jarvis Bedford [email protected]
2nd Alarm Project webpage: www.2ndalarmproject.org
Request training for your agency: https://2ndalarmproject.org/training/
Show recorded March, 2024