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, and look ahead to what’s next for first responder mental wellness.

Remember, the more you listen, the more it all makes sense. Thank you for tuning into 2nd Alarm Radio, be sure and stay connected with us on social media, download the app or visit us online at www.2ndalarmproject.com

Let us know what you think about the show by leaving a comment at https://2ndalarmproject.org/contact/

***Listen to the full episodes from today's show at https://2ndalarmproject.org/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 depression and suicidal ideations.

Heather candidly discusses the culture within law enforcement that discourages vulnerability and the profound impact it had on her mental health. She highlights the pivotal role that peer support played in her recovery and how she has since taken on a leadership role in developing peer support programs within her agency. Her story is a testament to the power of vulnerability, resilience, and the importance of building support networks among first responders.

Tune in to hear Heather's story and learn how we can all work together to create healthier, more supportive environments for those who serve.

Leave us your feedback at www.2ndalarmproject.com/contact

Learn more about upcoming events and request training for your agency - https://2ndalarmproject.org/training/

***Show Notes***

Hosts: Mike Bellamy - mbellamy2ap@gmail.com, Dr. Kellie O’Dare - kellie.odare@famu.edu

Guest: Deputy and 2AP Outreach Coordinator Heather Bruce - heatherbruce2ap@gmail.com

Show recorded September 2024

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 stronger support systems. Chief Ali also shares insights from her research and personal experiences, offering valuable guidance for improving mental health care for those who serve.

Tune in now and leave us your feedback at www.2ndalarmproject.com/contact

Learn more about upcoming events and request training for your agency - https://2ndalarmproject.org/training/

***Show Notes***

Hosts: Mike Bellamy - mbellamy2ap@gmail.com, Dr. Kellie O’Dare - kellie.odare@famu.edu

Guest: Battalion Chief, Dena Ali - dma1096@gmail.com

Book Recommendations:

Forthcoming in October 2024 - “Hope Out of Darkness - A guide to First Responder Mental Health and Wellness” by Dena Ali

"Man's Search for Meaning" by Viktor Frankl, "Dare to Lead" by Brené Brown, "Tribe: On Homecoming and Belonging" by Sebastian Junger, "Leadership Strategy and Tactics" by Jocko Willink

Show recorded September 2024