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 how innovative approaches, like therapy dogs, are making a positive impact on mental wellness.

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 & Steve Suarez

Guests:

Amanda Scoggin, Panama City Firefighter - ascoggin@panamacity.gov

Chief JoAnne Rice, Director, Florida Division of State Fire Marshal - joanne.rice@myfloridacfo.com

Book suggestion: Happiness Equation

Show recorded June, 2024

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 (2AP) and their role in understanding the mental wellness impacts of the research.

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***

Host: Mike Bellamy

Guests:

Dr. Kyle Smith, FSU k.smith@fsu.edu

Lt. Nick Gonzalez, GFR president2157@gmail.com

Show recorded May, 2024

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 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 Jbedford2000@yahoo.com

2nd Alarm Project webpage: www.2ndalarmproject.org

Request training for your agency: https://2ndalarmproject.org/training/

Show recorded March, 2024

First Responders Face Unique Challenges; Here's How 2AP is Responding

On this episode we talk with founder and Executive Director of 2AP Dr. Kellie O'Dare and Lead Clinician Michelle Lawrence about the past, present and future of behavioral health and the incredible work being done to rescue the rescuers. We know there's something impactful for all our first responders and their families in this episode. 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 

Guests: Dr. Kellie O'Dare Kellie.Odare@famu.edu

Michelle Lawrence Michelle.rehbein@famu.edu

2nd Alarm Project webpage: www.2ndalarmproject.org

UCF Restores: https://ucfrestores.com/

Florida Firefighter Health and Safety Collaborative: https://floridafirefightersafety.org/

IAFF: https://www.iaff.org/behavioral-health/

*Follow our social media from the links on our website

Request training for your agency: https://2ndalarmproject.org/training/

Show recorded February, 2024

Welcome to 2nd Alarm Podcast Radio, the official podcast of the 2nd Alarm Project. Join us as we explore the depths of resilience, share stories of strength, and provide a platform for the crucial discussions about mental health in the first responder community. So whether you wear the uniform or stand alongside those who do, sit back and enjoy the show.

In our first episode of the year our host Mike Bellamy interviews Steve Suarez from the 2AP team to discuss the "5 Life-Changing Habits Every First Responder Should Adopt in 2024." We know the new year serves as a great opportunity to reevaluate things and adopt some new routines. We hope these five habits get you, your families and departments off to a strong start this year.

...oh, and you don't want to miss Steve's responses to the "Blitz Attack" questions. 

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/

***Show Notes***

Books: Atomic Habits, People Care

Struggle Well Program: https://bouldercrest.org/program/struggle-well/

Steve Suarez Contact Info: stevesuarez2AP@gmail.com