• Finding Calm in the Chaos
    Nov 19 2024

    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.

    Frontline work brings intense pressure, and managing stress is essential. In today’s episode, you’ll learn a quick, adaptable mindfulness technique that you can use anytime to find calm amidst chaos.

    Today’s episode introduces the 5-4-3-2-1 Grounding Technique, a powerful mindfulness exercise to bring focus and calm during high-stress moments. You can use it anytime, anywhere, to find clarity and reduce anxiety.

    BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:

    • A simple mindfulness technique to manage stress in the moment

    • How to engage your senses to ground yourself and find focus

    • Practical steps to incorporate this exercise into your daily routine

    Remember, taking a moment for self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. Try this technique the next time stress sneaks up on you.

    CONNECT WITH BART

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/bartleger/ | https://stresscaredoc.com

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    8 mins
  • How to Break the Stigma of Suicide
    Nov 12 2024

    Are you equipped to recognize and prevent suicide in those around you?

    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.

    Shayna Klassen, National Training Director for QPR Institute, shares her journey from addiction and recovery to becoming a leader in suicide prevention. Discover the life-saving impact of QPR training and how you can get involved in preventing suicide.

    BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:

    • How Shayna’s personal journey led her to suicide prevention and the QPR Institute

    • The unique elements that set QPR apart from other suicide intervention models

    • How easy it is to become a QPR-certified gatekeeper or instructor to make a positive impact

    Join us to learn how you can be a part of the solution in suicide prevention.

    CONNECT WITH SHAYNA KLASSEN

    Website: QPR Institute

    Email: shayna@qprinstitute.com

    OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
    QPR Gatekeeper and Instructor Training Information

    CONNECT WITH BART:

    Website: https://stresscaredoc.com
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bartleger/

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    34 mins
  • A First Responder’s Story of Resilience
    Nov 5 2024

    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.


    What are the signs that burnout and stress are affecting your health and relationships?

    Burnout and the mental toll of high-stress jobs can go unnoticed until they start impacting health and family life. Allen Cormier’s journey highlights the importance of self-awareness and mental health support in the first responder community.

    BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:

    • How Alan’s personal experience in law enforcement inspired his mental health advocacy

    • Practical strategies first responders can use to manage stress and improve well-being

    • The role of community and support networks in creating sustainable mental health changes

    Join us in this conversation as Allen Cormier shares his story and actionable steps to help first responders thrive, not just survive.

    CONNECT WITH Allen

    FACEBOOK: facebook.com/WithYouSWLA

    WEBSITE: withyouswla.org

    CONNECT WITH BART:

    Website: https://stresscaredoc.com

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bartleger/

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    33 mins
  • Go From Overwhelmed to Empowered
    Oct 1 2024
    Do you often feel overwhelmed by the constant demands of your high-stress job?Many professionals in high-pressure careers neglect their own wellbeing, leading to burnout and health issues.But what if you could take control of your wellbeing and thrive even in the toughest moments? In this episode, we explore how.BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:•Practical strategies for managing stress in high-pressure environments.•How to integrate wellbeing practices into your daily routine.•T...
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    45 mins
  • Your Story is Not Unique
    Sep 25 2024
    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 feeling overwhelmed by the demands of being a first responder?It’s common to experience burnout and stress, but it doesn’t have to be your daily reality. Retired firefig...
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    52 mins
  • Surviving Retirement and Finding Purpose
    Sep 3 2024
    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.Have you ever wondered what life will look like after you hang up your uniform for the last time?Retirement can bring more anxiety than excitement for many first responders, but it doesn’t have to be that way.In this episode, Dr. Me...
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    41 mins
  • Supporting Your Family While Protecting Others
    Aug 27 2024
    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.What does it take to support first responders and their families in the toughest times?If you’re a first responder or someone close to them, you might be struggling with maintaining family relationships amid the pressu...
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    43 mins
  • Integrating Physical and Spiritual Health
    Aug 20 2024
    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 facing the pressures of a high-stress career and wondering how to maintain balance and purpose?First responders often turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms when dealing with stress, trauma, and the demands of their professi...
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    55 mins