Transformation through trauma and healing through creativity: Brandy Maslowski's Journey from Firefighting to Quilting In this compelling episode of Beneath the Helmet, retired Fire Chief Arjuna George sits down with Brandy Maslowski, a former firefighter lieutenant from Central Canada who moved to British Columbia over a decade ago. Brandy opens up about her struggles with PTSD and complex PTSD, the toll of trauma from her firefighting career, and the pivotal role of counselling and family support in her recovery. She shares how quilting became a therapeutic outlet for her, creating the successful Quilter on Fire podcast. Join us as we explore the intersections of mental health, creativity, and the importance of self-care and support systems in overcoming life's challenges. Don't miss this inspiring conversation about resilience, transformation, and finding new passions. 00:00 Introduction to Beneath the Helmet Season 2 00:05 Meet Brandy Maslowski: From Firefighter to Quilter 01:09 The Role of Creativity in Mental Health 01:49 Brandy's Personal Journey with PTSD 07:07 The Decision to Leave the Fire Service 17:14 Life After the Fire Service 27:47 Understanding Complex PTSD 30:55 Overcoming Triggers and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy 32:05 The Power of Smell and Memory 33:22 Support Systems and Spousal Support 35:05 Family Dynamics and Personal Boundaries 39:05 Quilting on Fire: A Passion Ignited 43:00 Daily Routines for Mental Wellness 47:33 Self-Care and Stress Management 49:35 Final Thoughts and Reflections #arttherapy #quilting #ptsd #cptsd #firefighterpodcast Brandy Maslowski of Quilter on Fire Former Firefighter Lieutenant (2000-2010) Email: brandy@quilteronfire.com Website: www.quilteronfire.com Social: @quilteronfire

Brandy Maslowski is a former firefighter lieutenant who served for 15 years in Central Canada before transitioning to a new path as the Quilter on Fire podcast creator. After leaving the fire service due to Operational Stress Injury (OSI), Brandy found healing and passion through quilting. Today, she is a keynote speaker, author, and quilter, inspiring creativity as a form of wellness. Brandy’s story of resilience and creativity in the face of trauma resonates with a wide audience, and she continues to advocate for mental health awareness in her work. 🚨Stay Connected on Social🚨 Facebookhttps://www.facebook.com/beneaththehelmetshow/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/beneaththehelmetshow/ TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@beneaththehelmet?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunageorge/ Twitter https://twitter.com/AJGeorgefire Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@beneaththehelmetshow Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@beneaththehelmetshorts 📨Linkedin Podcast Newsletter https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7026972684089528321 📝Join the BTH Newsletter at https://colossal-trailblazer-6113.ck.page/c0e1b81fbe 📺Watch or Listen to all the episodes at www.beneaththehelmet.ca 📩 Email Host: arjuna@silverarrowco.com