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

Understanding Moral Injury, also known as Moral Distress and Administrative Betrayal, with Dr. Rita Brock. In this episode of Beneath the Helmet, host Arjuna George interviews Dr. Rita Brock, the director of Volunteers America's Shea Moral Injury Institute. Dr. Brock explains the concepts of moral injury, moral distress, and administrative betrayal, particularly within fire services, healthcare, first responder agencies, and the military. She shares her personal journey and extensive professional experience in addressing these issues. The episode provides valuable insights and resources for recognizing and recovering from moral injury, emphasizing the importance of community and peer support. Tune in for an in-depth discussion on the emotional and spiritual challenges those in demanding service roles face. Administrative betrayal is the act of deliberate disloyalty and occurs when leadership fails to protect their member(s) during a time of vulnerability, therefore inducing harm by neglecting to react in a way that meets the basic needs of the first responder. #moralinjury #Administrativebetrayal #firefighterpodcast 00:00 video1254992844 00:05 Meet Dr. Rita Brock 00:11 Understanding Moral Injury 01:09 Introduction to Beneath the Helmet 01:51 Closing Remarks and Gratitude 02:00 Dr. Brock's Personal Journey 03:38 The Concept of Moral Injury 09:31 Developing Programs for Moral Injury 12:08 Impact of Moral Injury on First Responders 21:14 Signs and Symptoms of Moral Injury 26:04 Moral Injury vs. PTSD 32:47 The Role of Religious Communities in Mental Health 33:14 Blurred Lines Between Clinicians and Chaplains 33:57 Moral Injury in the Medical Field 34:18 Therapists and Peer Support 35:30 Spirituality vs. Religion 35:45 Buddhism and Spiritual Practices 36:55 Indigenous Healing Practices 41:28 Administrative Betrayal and Moral Injury 44:40 Addressing Moral Injury in the Fire Service 48:33 Resources for Understanding Moral Injury 54:20 Connecting with Dr. Brock 56:28 The Importance of Sleep for Wellness 🚨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

How to Make Future-Ready Fire Officers: the key leadership skill. The Modern Fire Officer. Join our conversation with Jared as we discuss how to prepare our fire officers and emerging leaders for the future. All things leadership and wellness! Beneath the Helmet: Hosted by Arjuna George with guest Firefighter Jared Vermeulen. In this episode of Beneath the Helmet, hosted by retired Fire Chief Arjuna George, we delve into firefighter leadership and wellness with Jared Vermeulen, a firefighter and author from Florida. Jared shares his journey in the fire service, highlighting the importance of modern leadership styles, emotional intelligence, and self-care. He discusses the challenges firefighters face today, including mental health issues and burnout, and offers actionable insights on fostering a healthier culture within fire departments. Jared also talks about his book, 'The Modern Fire Officer,' emphasizing humility, empathy, and creating a supportive firehouse environment. This conversation provides valuable lessons for new and seasoned fire service officers. 00:00 Introduction to Beneath the Helmet 00:37 Meet Jared Vermeulen, Firefighter and Author 02:15 Jared's Journey into Firefighting 05:25 Challenges and Changes in the Fire Service 06:49 Leadership and Generational Differences 12:39 The Importance of Self-Care and Energy 17:54 Humility and Core Values in Leadership 26:48 Modernizing the Fire Service 31:22 Opening Up About Mental Health 32:03 Creating a Safe Firehouse Environment 33:10 The Importance of Training 33:38 Knowing Your Crew 35:33 Customer Service and Burnout 39:40 Personal Stories and Challenges 49:03 The Modern Fire Officer Book 01:00:26 Final Thoughts and Key Messages #firefighterpodcast #firefighterleadership #leadership Jared Vermeulen and I’m a 17 year veteran of Boca Raton Fire Rescue. I’m happily married and have the privilege of being the father of 2 great boys. I’m the author of the fire service leadership book: “The Modern Fire Officer.” I would love the opportunity to be on your show and discuss leadership, emotional IQ, PTSD, or anything currently facing the modern firefighter. Website: https://modernfireofficer.com 🚨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

Top Tactics for Firefighter Success. The Power of Systems with Ryan Rodriguez Join Retired Fire Chief Arjuna George in an insightful episode of Beneath the Helmet with Ryan Rodriguez, a 20-year veteran firefighter, coach, and author of 'Own It: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability.' Ryan discusses his journey, coaching philosophy, and the innovative FIRE framework aimed at helping firefighters and first responders excel. Explore the importance of accountability, mental resilience, and personal growth systems. Ryan also shares insights from his Ignited podcast, where he delves into topics like gamifying goals and proactive resiliency, and hints at his upcoming book on organizational leadership. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone committed to becoming the best version of themselves. 00:00 Meet Ryan Rodriguez: Firefighter and Author 00:05 Join Our Community 00:57 Ryan's Journey and Career 07:24 The Birth of Ignited Firefighter Podcast 10:46 The Spark Behind 'Own It' 14:43 The Role of Accountability in the Fire Service 18:18 Challenges Facing the Fire Service 25:01 The Four Flames of a Balanced Firefighter 31:33 The Power of Systems and Consistency 39:29 Ryan's Coaching Philosophy 42:03 Igniting Passion in Clients 43:32 Who Joins the Coaching Program? 47:06 Ryan's Self-Care Toolbox 48:01 The Importance of Continuous Learning 48:43 Overcoming Personal Challenges 55:42 The Power of Sleep and Rituals 01:02:42 The Need for Coaching 01:19:53 Final Thoughts and Connections 📖 Book - Burnt Around the Edges – A Guide to Mastering Stress and Surviving Burnout - Arjuna George (Available on Amazon, Apple and Google Books) 🔥Show Sponsored by Silver Arrow Coaching and Consulting - Burnout and Resilience Coaching for High Performers. Visit www.silverarrowco.com to learn more or to book a complimentary meet and greet. Don't just live life; thrive! 🚨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

A Story of Hope and Healing Jason Sautel, Rescuing the Rescuer interview with host retired Fire Chief Arjuna George in another enlightening episode of Beneath the Helmet, as he sits down with Jason Sautel, a former Oakland firefighter, author of 'The Rescuer,' and 'Jesus is All We Need.' In this heartfelt discussion, Jason opens up about his journey from skateboarding teen to seasoned firefighter, his struggles with trauma, and how faith played a crucial role in his recovery. Listen as they delve into topics like mental health, the culture of the fire service, and practical tips for maintaining wellness in such a demanding job. This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone looking to manage stress and find their own path to wellness. 00:00 Introduction to Beneath the Helmet 00:37 Meet Jason Sautel: Firefighter, Author, and Podcaster 02:09 Jason's Journey into Firefighting 04:17 Challenges and Experiences in Oakland 07:05 The Injury That Changed Everything 08:55 Faith and Transition: Overcoming Adversity 12:37 Balancing Firefighting and Family Life 16:03 Mental Health and Finding Hope 23:05 Faith on the Fire Ground 30:31 Finding Joy in the Fire Service 31:11 Faith and Stress Management 33:18 Self-Care Toolkit for Firefighters 36:51 The Healing Power of Humor 41:57 Writing 'The Rescuer' 48:40 Final Thoughts and Key Messages

Join our conversation with Jen Grigg as she shares her journey of redesigning her life and overcoming Burnout. A story of merely surviving to thriving! Retired Fire Chief Arjuna George speaks with former firefighter and now coach and hypnotherapist Jen Grigg in this episode of the Beneath the Helmet podcast. They discuss Jen's transition from a decades-long fire service career to a focus on supporting women's and first responders' mental and emotional health through coaching and hypnotherapy. Jen shares her struggles with burnout and unworthiness, her journey to overhaul her life by addressing her mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health, and practical advice for others facing similar challenges. The conversation highlights the importance of self-care, breaking negative patterns, and finding empowerment through self-worth. 0:00 Jenn Grigg Podcast Episode 01:13 Introduction and Welcome 01:13 Introduction and Welcome 01:14 Starting the Conversation: Beneath the Helmet 01:31 Introducing the Guest: Jen Grigg 01:31 Guest Introduction: Jen Grigg 02:08 Jen's Journey: From Firefighter to Coach 02:18 Jen's Journey in the Fire Service 03:41 Recognizing and Dealing with Burnout 03:41 Recognizing and Dealing with Burnout 03:57 The Impact of Self-Worth on Burnout 05:08 The Turning Point: A Personal Story 05:08 The Turning Point: Acknowledging Burnout 06:57 The Aftermath: Dealing with Post-Traumatic Stress 07:28 Making the Decision to Leave the Fire Service 07:28 The Struggle of Leaving the Fire Service 08:50 The Struggle with Identity and Self-Worth 11:35 The Importance of Self-Care and Boundaries 13:56 Exploring Hypnotherapy as a Healing Tool 14:37 The Power of Hypnotherapy 23:16 Setting Healthy Boundaries for Mental Health 23:16 Setting Healthy Boundaries 28:30 The Power of Self-Connection and Breaking Patterns 28:32 Preventing Burnout in the Coaching Industry 28:32 Maintaining Mental Health in the Coaching Industry 34:35 Reaching Out to an Ayurvedic Practitioner 34:35 Introduction and Welcome 34:47 Choosing Natural Remedies Over Medication 34:55 The Journey to Self-Care and Self-Nurturing 35:04 The Journey of Self-Care and Cooking 35:43 The Power of Cooking and Self-Care 36:40 The Impact of Ayurveda and Self-Care 37:42 The Importance of Self-Care in the Fire Service 37:45 The Importance of Self-Care for First Responders 38:22 The Joy of Cooking and Its Therapeutic Effects 38:22 The Therapeutic Nature of Cooking 39:53 The Impact of Ayurveda and Self-Care on Mental Health 40:46 Overhauling Life: Emotional Health 40:46 Overhauling Emotional Health 42:20 The Power of Hypnosis and Awareness in Mental Health 44:50 The Role of Physical Health in Overall Wellbeing 47:02 The Importance of Self-Worth in Personal Growth 47:02 The Power of Self-Worth and Safety 48:30 The Role of Safety in Personal Growth 56:31 Conclusion: The Power of Self-Worth and Self-Care 59:27 The Power of Coaching and Hypnotherapy 01:01:09 The Journey from Surviving to Thriving 01:01:09 The Journey from Surviving to Thriving 01:03:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Exploring Psychedelic Therapy First Responder with PTSD with Jeff Morley: Beneath the Helmet Podcast Join retired Fire Chief Arjuna George on the Beneath the Helmet podcast as he converses with Jeff Morley, a former RCMP member and registered psychologist specializing in psychedelic therapy for first responders. In this insightful episode, they delve into the benefits and controversies surrounding the use of MDMA and other psychedelics for treating PTSD, anxiety, and other mental health challenges faced by first responders. Discover how a holistic approach encompassing various therapeutic modalities could revolutionize mental health care for those constantly on the frontline. 00:00 Introduction to Beneath the Helmet 00:38 Meet Jeff Morley: From RCMP to Psychedelic Therapy 02:18 Understanding Psychedelic Therapy for First Responders 05:24 The Science and Safety of MDMA 08:50 Therapeutic Process and Integration 21:17 Challenges and Future of Psychedelic Therapy 28:55 Jeff Morley's Personal Insights and Self-Care 37:41 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Connect with Show Host Arjuna George: Arjuna George (Fire Chief Ret) 📧arjuna@silverarrowco.com @silverarrowcoaching 🌐www.silverarrowco.com 🌐www.beneaththehelmet.ca 🌐www.burntaroundtheedges.com 👉Show your support for Beneath the Helmet and help us continue making a meaningful impact: https://colossal-trailblazer-6113.ck.page/products/beneath-the-helmet-show 👉Subscribe for more inspiring episodes. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOk6WxxtCfp0DsTx5_jrO4g?sub_confirmation=1 📢Join the BTH Community for exclusive content and insights: https://www.facebook.com/groups/602275498508857/ 🎧Tune in on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other platforms for instant updates at www.beneaththehelmet.ca 🔴Episode Number: 052 🔴Publish Date: July 17 2024 🔴Host: Arjuna George 🔴Guest: Jeff Morley www.beneaththehelmet.ca

Join us for Morgan Englund: Healing Through Music, Episode 51. A Journey from Firefighter to Wellness Advocate with Morgan England | Beneath the Helmet Retired Fire Chief Arjuna George hosts former firefighter, actor, and musician Morgan England in this episode of Beneath the Helmet. Morgan shares his journey through the fire service, detailing the highs of driving the tiller truck and the lows of facing burnout and significant emotional challenges. He speaks candidly about his decision to walk away from the fire service, utilizing sound therapy as a crucial part of his healing process. The discussion also extends to the importance of nurturing one's mental and emotional well-being and how societal division can be mitigated through kindness and empathy. Tune in for an inspiring conversation with insights into personal growth, mental health, and innovative wellness practices. 00:00 Introduction to Beneath the Helmet 01:48 Meet Morgan England: From Acting to Firefighting 02:17 A Life-Changing Injury and Career Shift 04:29 The Emotional Toll of Firefighting 06:10 The Impact of a Tragic Loss 06:21 The Kidney Injury Story 13:36 Football and Acting: Lessons for Firefighting 18:47 Challenges in the Fire Service 25:49 Finding a New Purpose 33:39 Leadership and Culture in the Fire Service 35:34 Firefighter Rivalries and Leadership Challenges 37:05 The Impact of Leadership on Firehouse Culture 38:23 Evolving Fire Service Standards and Diversity 41:49 Personal Reflections and Leadership Insights 42:38 Healing and Personal Growth Journey 48:19 Sound Therapy and Overcoming PTSD 54:35 The Science of Frequencies and Healing 01:03:46 Embracing Emotions and Team Dynamics 01:07:54 Final Thoughts and Resources

Join me and my special guest host Cindy Thompson as we explore and review the past 50 episodes and a year of podcasting. Celebrating Episode 50 with Cindy Thompson | Reflecting on Firefighter Wellness and Burnout Recovery In this milestone 50th episode of Beneath the Helmet, host Retired Fire Chief Jah George reflects on his podcasting journey and personal experiences with burnout recovery. Interviewed by fellow podcaster Cindy Thompson, they discuss the origins of the podcast, the importance of firefighter mental and physical health, and the lessons learned from his career. This special episode offers insights into resilience, leadership, and the transformative power of self-care. 00:00 Introduction to Beneath the Helmet 00:33 Celebrating Episode 50 00:42 Interview with Cindy Thompson 02:56 The Birth of Beneath the Helmet 06:57 Personal Growth and Burnout Recovery 09:27 Lessons Learned and Future Aspirations 20:55 The Broader Impact and Community 27:13 Final Thoughts and Reflections 29:43 Closing Remarks

Breaking Barriers: A Conversation with Cindy Schooner Ball Exploring Firefighters' Health & Wellness with Cindy Schrooner Ball | Episode 49 In this episode of Beneath the Helmet, hosted by Retired Fire Chief Arjuna George, we delve deep into the world of firefighters’ health and wellness. Special guest, retired captain Cindy Schrooner Ball, shares her incredible journey as one of the pioneering female firefighters, including her experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Cindy discusses her book 'Sister in a Brotherhood,' which narrates stories from her life in the fire service and her passion for promoting the fire service to men and women of all ages. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, mentorship, and the importance of mental and physical well-being in the fire service. 00:00 Introduction to Beneath the Helmet 00:39 Meet Cindy Schrooner Ball: A Trailblazing Female Firefighter 02:02 Cindy's Early Life and Path to Firefighting 05:02 Challenges and Triumphs in Fire Academy 07:50 Breaking Barriers in the Fire Service 13:09 The Evolution of Fire Service Culture 27:41 Retirement Reflections and Finding New Purpose 34:07 The Journey of Writing a Book 35:01 The Challenges and Rewards of Completing a Book 36:55 Reigniting Purpose in Retirement 38:50 The Fire Service as a Family 41:06 Mentorship and Confidence in the Fire Service 45:43 Advice for New Firefighters 55:23 The Importance of Compassion in Leadership 57:40 Reflections and Future Plans 01:05:24 Concluding Thoughts and Contact Information