Best Yoga For First Responders Podcasts (2024)

1
Tactical Excellence: The Six Inches Between the Ears with Chief Dennis Reilly 1:43:24

7d ago1:43:24

1:43:24

Welcome to a riveting episode of On Air where I (Eric) had the pleasure of interviewing retired fire chief Dennis Reilly. Chief Reilly, with over 50 years of experience in the fire service, shared invaluable insights and experiences. In this episode, Chief Reilly and I delved into the importance of training the whole package in the fire service. We…

1
SZN 7 EP 6 - Doc Shauna Springer / Stellate Ganglion Block / PTSD Vs. PTSI / Warrior / Beyond The Military / Relentless Courage 1:05:52

6d ago1:05:52

1:05:52

Joining T.O.C. Podcast in person is Doc Shauna Springer, a graduate from Harvard who is now a Psychologist. Doc Springer is the Chief Psychologist for Stella, a best-selling author, and one of the world's leading experts on psychological trauma, military transition, suicide prevention, and close relationships. Throughout this podcast, Doc Springer …

1
SZN 7 EP 5 - Mark / U.S. Army 11Bravo 15 Years / QRF Up Non-Profit Organization / 39 Friends Have Died By Suicide / Free App For Veterans & First Responders Dedicated to Saving Lives / Goes Live on Veterans ... 1:14:57

1d ago1:14:57

1:14:57

Joining via zoom in Georgia is Mark. Mark recently medically retired from the United States Army after 15 years of service. Mark is the Vice President of QRF Up, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing quick and confidential help for our military and first responder community nationwide. With the use of an app for all users, QRF Up provide…

1
Intro with Mike/ T.O.C.'s Newest Board Member/ Active Duty Marine 1:33:31

17d ago1:33:31

1:33:31

In this episode Mike and Jesse talk about a few things for the fundraiser. In addition to what Mike is going to be helping us with. Sit back and chill out with us on the episode and if you have any questions, DM us and we will get them to him! Support the Show.By The Overwatch Collective

1
SZN 7 EP 4 - Mikey, U.S. Service Member Suicide Attempt Via GSW / Challenges of a Failed Suicide Attempt / Gun In My Mouth is Stupid / Suicide Text To 30 People / A Professional At Masking Emotions / Taste ... 2:33:25

5d ago2:33:25

2:33:25

Joining in person is Mike Mealey, a United States Coast Guard service member, who attempted to die by suicide via shooting himself in the chest. Thankfully, the "special bullet" missed his heart by a 1/16th of an inch... Mikey discusses the stigma amongst our military community, the exhaustion of wearing a mask to hide our emotions while struggling…

1
The Impact of YFFR Instructor School Bridge Course 1:24:27

21d ago1:24:27

1:24:27

In this episode of the YFFR podcast, we dive into the experience of the YFFR Instructor School Bridge Course through the eyes of a trainee. The episode features a conversation between Olivia, Eric and Peggy, a trainee in the Instructor School Bridge Course. They discuss the unique structure of the course, highlighting the emphasis on human-to-human…

1
SZN 7 EP 3 - Maddy, Teaching Women to Lift and Expressing Self Defense Amongst Women 1:01:03

12d ago1:01:03

1:01:03

Everyone has a story and not everyone is a first responder. Maddy has that story for us today. During this episode we dive into what its like being fit and healthy when out of nowhere an illness takes her over for quite some time and is rendered incapacitated. As she over comes this and is on the upward side of recovery, she is happy to be back coa…

1
SZN 7 EP 2 - Jared, USMC Vet and Current LEO / Charged w/ Manslaughter After OIS / Stigma & Pride Amongst Community 51:20

19d ago51:20

51:20

Joining via Zoom is Jared from Oklahoma City, who has been a Police Officer for 8 years and married with two kids. Also, Jared is a United States Marine Corps Veteran, who was injured while preparing for a deployment. He was medically discharged after two years of service. Throughout the podcast, Jared discusses the stigma and pride amongst our law…

1
After Action Report: Instructor School Bridge Course 1:31:25

1M ago1:31:25

1:31:25

In this episode of the podcast, we had a lively discussion with the core team members of Yoga for First Responders (YFFR), including Jess, Lisa, and Olivia. The episode started with some light-hearted banter about mustaches and personal experiences. The team members shared their journeys with YFFR, highlighting their roles and contributions to the …

1
SZN 7 EP 1 - Full T.O.C. Update / 4th Annual Fundraiser / Pause On Accepting New Clients / Therapy Stats / Giving Tuesday 26:09

1M ago26:09

26:09

Get a full update on The Overwatch Collective in this episode with Greg and Donna, T.O.C. Board of Directors Members! In this episode, we discuss our updated therapy stats, challenges with fundraising, haulting accepting financial assistance, Giving Tuesday, and our 4th Annual Fundraiser. A huge shoutout to our 4th Annual Fundraiser Sponsors: Throt…

1
SZN 6 EP 20 - Austin, U.S. Army Combat Veteran & Purple Heart Recipient / The RPG Just Missed Me / Culture in the U.S. Military / Catch A Lift: Fitness For Veterans 42:44

28d ago42:44

42:44

Joining via zoom from Ohio is Austin Owens, a Prior U.S. Army Infantryman, who was awarded the Purple Heart after being wounded in combat while serving in Afghanistan in 2011. Austin joined the U.S. Army at the age of 19 in 2009 and originally wanted to be a K9 Handler, but had to settle with 11Bravo. Austin discusses the lack of mental health awar…

1
SZN 6 EP 19 - Kendall, Trauma Informed Yoga Therapist for CAL Fire / Married to Fire Fighter / Virtual 1:1 Sessions 55:18

1M ago55:18

55:18

Joining via zoom from San Diego, CA, is Kendall Wood, who's been a yoga therapist working with our first responder community for the past five years. Currently, Kendall works along side CAL Fire Firefighters at the training center teaching yoga. Kendall is also married to a CAL Fire Engineer. Kendall offers 1:1 virtual yoga sessions, in person retr…

1
True Vulnerability featuring Jason Downey (Part 2) 1:21:21

2M ago1:21:21

1:21:21

We continue our conversation with Jason Downey, Hudson PD. The conversation continues as he shares his journey of using baking as a form of mindfulness and self-care. We delved into the importance of being present in the moment and nurturing relationships, especially within the context of public safety and first responders. The guest shared his vis…

1
SZN 6 EP 18 - Kristofor, Prior Special Agent w/ U.S. Customs & Boarder Protection, 10 Ft. Away From Self Inflicting GSW, Author Of "In Valor", and Host of The Stoic Responder Podcast 1:23:26

2M ago1:23:26

1:23:26

Joining via zoom is Kristofor from the state of Texas! Kristofor is a prior Special Agent w/ U.S. Customs & Boarder Protection where he served honorably for 15 years. Kristofer is currently married with two children. In this podcast, we talk about a call for service where Kristofor was 10 ft. away from someone who died via a self inflicting GSW, hi…

1
True Vulnerability: A Cop's Journey to Self-Discovery featuring Jason Downey (Part 1) 44:27

2M ago44:27

44:27

In this episode, we have the privilege of interviewing Jason Downey, a police officer from the Hudson Police Department in New Hampshire. Jason shared his journey of 24 years in law enforcement, highlighting the challenges he faced both professionally and personally. He opened up about the loss of his child during pregnancy and the impact it had on…

1
SZN 6 EP 17 - Matt, Retired Fire Fighter Diagnosed W/ PTSD Overcomes Alcohol Addiction After Attending Throttle & Thrive, A Substance Misuse Facility For First Responders/Veterans 56:28

2M ago56:28

56:28

Joining via zoom is Matt and Shavonne in beautiful Southern California at Throttle & Thrive's Facility, which is a Men's Substance Misuse Facility Exclusively For First Responders and Veterans. Matt was born in Florida and served as a Fire Fighter for 18 years. Furthermore, Matt was married and has three children and unfortunately his substance mis…

1
SZN 6 EP 16 - Rob, Ret. Police Capt. in CA / Crimes Against Children / EAP & Peer Support Is A Check In The Box / Culture Change Over 30 Years / Unified Wellness Center 50:40

2M ago50:40

50:40

Joining via zoom in Southern California is Rob, a retired Police Captain, who honorably served 30 years in the profession. After retirement, Rob obtained his Masters Degree in Social Work and now operates the Unified Wellness Center for our first responder and military community in Southern California. Throughout Rob's 30 years, he was an F.T.O., D…

1
Unveiling the Results of YFFR's Clinical Research Study 52:05

2M ago52:05

52:05

We reveal groundbreaking research findings from YFFR's second clinical research study. The research study focused on the impact of mind-body training for first responders, specifically targeting symptoms of PTSD and cognitive reappraisal. The results were astounding, showing a significant reduction in PTSD symptoms and improved cognitive strategies…

1
SZN 6 EP 15 - Dr. Michele Vecchione, Licensed Psychotherapist / Compassion Fatigue / The Compassion Fatigue / That Scary First Therapy Session / Signs & Symptoms of Stress & Burnout 51:25

3M ago51:25

51:25

Joining via zoom is Dr. Michele Vecchione, a psychotherapist in Florida, who is a great resource for our first responder and military community. Dr. Vecchione also authored The Compassion Conundrum, a manual that offers resources and tools for our community. With the experience of traumatic calls for service on a daily basis within our community, w…

1
QC - Redefining Deservingness: The Culture of Selflessness 5:22

3M ago5:22

5:22

In this QuickCast from Yoga for First Responders, Olivia delves into the culture of selflessness and redefines deservingness, particularly in demanding professions like emergency services. She highlights the resistance faced in implementing beneficial practices like Yoga for First Responders, attributing it to societal glorification of selflessness…

1
What are QuickCasts and From the Field Episodes? 5:23

3M ago5:23

5:23

In this QuickCast from On Air by Yoga For First Responders, Olivia introduces two new episode types, QuickCasts and From the Field. QuickCasts are short impactful episodes designed for a quick break from work or in between calls. While From the Field episodes are recorded raw while YFFR is out in the world making an impact! This week we launch our …

1
From The Field: Developing Tactical Resilience at MAFFC 2024 1:37:16

3M ago1:37:16

1:37:16

The podcast's "From the Field" series delves into discussions on mental resilience, personal transformation, and the impact of yoga on first responders and individuals. In the episode guests, including firefighters and instructors from Developing Tactical Resilience, share their personal experiences and transformations through yoga and mental resil…

1
Inside the Mind of a Firefighter: Kevin Housley on Performance Psychology and Sleep 1:44:03

4M ago1:44:03

1:44:03

In this episode of "On Air," we delve into the evolution of resilience and performance in emergency responders with special guest Captain Kevin Housley, the founder of Firefighter Craftsmanship. As the conversation unfolds, the hosts introduce Captain Kevin Housley, highlighting his expertise in sleep mouth taping, breathwork, and project managemen…

1
The Epic Drive: A Story of Resilience, Purpose, and Pursuit with Gage Hull 1:45:58

4M ago1:45:58

1:45:58

In this week's episode of On Air, we had the pleasure of talking with Gage Hall, a former Army veteran and current member of the fire service. Gage is not only a strong advocate for yoga and action adventure sports but also a pioneer in using these modalities to support peer support across the country. The episode kicks off with a lively introducti…

1
SZN 6 EP 14 - Calico, K9 Handler/Instructor Connected To Our Special Operations Community & First Responders: "Over The Top Happy, Murder Someone Angry, Or Kill Myself Depressed." 1:01:06

4M ago1:01:06

1:01:06

Joining via zoom in Colorado is Calico, who was full of energy as she was set up in the garage gym full of challenge coins, flags, patches, and weapons. Full of energy comes a lot of cuss words! Calico applied for the United States Marine Corps, where she hoped to become an Officer after passing Officer Candidate School. Unfortunately, a concussion…

1
From Army Helicopters to Canine Drug Testing: An Adventure in Wellness with Sarah Moore 1:20:45

5M ago1:20:45

1:20:45

A Journey of Resilience and Adventure with Sarah In today's episode, Eric had the pleasure of speaking with Sarah, a remarkable individual with an inspiring story of service, adventure, and personal growth. Sarah's journey from the military to law enforcement to becoming an advocate for yoga and mindfulness in the first responder community is nothi…

1
SZN 6 EP 13 - Robyn Sonnier LPC & Mica Salazar Istre LPC, T.O.C. Therapists Discuss the Importance of Being Culturally Competent & Working W/ Our Military & First Responder Community 1:09:10

5M ago1:09:10

1:09:10

A fantastic in person podcast with Robyn Sonnier and Mica Salazar Istre while in Lafayette, Loiusiana! Listen in as they discuss their training, experience, and education in working work out military and first responder community. Both are contracted T.O.C. therapists and are actively seeing people in our community through T.O.C. We talk about the …

1
Building a Robust Wellness Program for Law Enforcement: Special Guest Officer Justin Breton 1:02:59

5M ago1:02:59

1:02:59

Implementing proactive wellness programs in law enforcement agencies can lead to a decrease in reactive responses to critical incidents. Officer Justin Breton from the Manchester, New Hampshire Police Department shared insights on how their agency successfully implemented proactive wellness programs. Officer Breton emphasized the importance of crea…

1
SZN 6 EP 12 - Eric Tung, Blue Grit Wellness, Active LEO Commander w/ 17 Years of Experience 1:01:03

5M ago1:01:03

1:01:03

Joining via zoom in Seattle is Eric Tung a huge mental health advocate, who has been a LEO w/ Kent Police Department for 17 years. A huge congrats to Eric as he was recently promoted to the rank of Commander. Eric held various positions in the podcast such as K9 Officer and recruiting. Blue Grit Wellness started post 2020 after all of the negative …

1
One Conscious Breath with Special Guest Joe Spector 1:20:56

5M ago1:20:56

1:20:56

In this episode of On Air by Yoga for First Responders, Eric talks with Joe Spector, a retired firefighter turned coach and Instagram influencer. They delve into the power of health and wellness training in the fire service, highlighting Joe's powerful story that emphasizes the impact of one conscious breath. The episode touches on the changing lan…

1
SZN 6 EP 11 - T.O.C.'s Guest Appearance on 'A Healthy Shift' Podcast w/ Roger Sutherland 1:08:23

5M ago1:08:23

1:08:23

Always a pleasure being a guest on other podcasts. This podcast with Roger Sutherland was a special one as it reaches listeners in Australia, U.S.A., and other countries. Roger absolutely crushed it with the editing and clips from the episode. In this podcast, Greg breaks down how T.O.C. started, the common trends amongst our community regarding me…

1
SZN 6 EP 10 - Shavonne, Founder of Throttle and Thrive, Be Here Tomorrow Sponsor, In Person for the 2nd Podcast! 1:19:03

6M ago1:19:03

1:19:03

Another fantastic in person podcast with Shavonne, but this time was even better as it was recorded in person in the studio, AKA The Garage! Shavonne flew up to Northern CA from Southern CA. Shavonne talks about Throttle and Thrive briefly as she already discussed it in detail during SZN 6 EP 5. Throughout this episode, Shavonne talks about how her…

1
Creating Confidence with YFFR Instructor Rachel Warmath 1:23:21

6M ago1:23:21

1:23:21

Welcome to another episode of "On Air with Yoga for First Responders"! In this episode, hosts Olivia Mead and Eric Brenneman are joined by Rachel, a YFFR instructor, to delve into the journey of building confidence as a yoga teacher and in life. The conversation is filled with personal anecdotes, insights, and shared experiences that highlight the …

1
SZN 6 EP 9 - Jade, LCSW / EMDR Group Therapy / Neurofeedback / Debriefs Causing Secondary PTS / Reasons Why Suicides Occur 1:18:33

6M ago1:18:33

1:18:33

Joining via zoom in Northern California is Jade DeFrates, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing for 18 years! Jade treats complex trauma amongst our first responder community, conducts EMDR and neurofeedback. Jade discusses the history of EMDR and some of the benefits to starting group EMDR while maintaining confidentiality, whi…

1
SZN 6 EP 8 - Scott, U.S. Navy Veteran & Founder of Hill Mortgage / Get TOC Community Into A Home Easily / VA Home Loan Break Down 1:10:36

6M ago1:10:36

1:10:36

Joining via zoom is Scott Hill, who breaks down the process of making is simple and easy to get people amongst our TOC community into a home. Greg worked with Scott to get into his home and can vouch for Scott and his wife Lisa. If you're looking to get into a home or just want some advice on planning for that time, you need to contact Scott! Scott…

1
SZN 6 EP 7 - Jessica, Next Shift / Retired Police Sgt. After 10 Yrs / Law Enforcement Career Transition Coach / Pros & Cons of Being Married to a Fellow LEO 1:52:14

6M ago1:52:14

1:52:14

Joining via zoom is Jessica from the very cold Kansas City, Missouri. Jessica is a retired Police Sgt. who's career was unexpectedly cut short, which like most, she was not prepared for. Jessica started Next Shift and became a Law Enforcement Officer (LEO) transition coach in order to help our LEO community be prepared to adapt to life after being …

1
Finding Balance: Yoga, Entrepreneurship, and Personal Growth with Katrina Marsh 1:25:47

7M ago1:25:47

1:25:47

In this episode of On Air by Yoga for First Responders, Olivia and Eric host their guest Katrina Marsh, founder of Busy Bee Studios, discuss the power of yoga in strengthening communities. Katrina shares her journey as a yoga teacher in Dixon, California, and how she has expanded her studio to make yoga accessible to her town of fewer than 20,000 p…

1
SZN 6 EP 6 - Dr. Brooke Bartlett, T.O.C. Contracted Licensed Clinical Psychologist / Extensive Trauma/PTSD/Moral Injury Experience / Private Paid Provider Confidentiality / Insurance Challenges / PTSI ... 1:32:36

7M ago1:32:36

1:32:36

Joining from San Diego via zoom is Dr. Brooke Bartlett, a licensed clinical psychologist with over 10 years of specialized training with first responders, military, and their loved ones, and can work with anyone in California and Florida. Dr. Bartlett is also an accomplished researcher with dozens of scientific contributions examining trauma and st…

1
SZN 6 EP 5 - Shavonne, Throttle & Thrive, A Men's Substance Misuse Facility For First Responders & Veterans 47:13

7M ago47:13

47:13

Joining from Southern California via zoom is Shavonne, the founder of Throttle & Thrive. Through sobriety and AA, Shavonne found peace, healing, and purpose, which led to the idea to create a facility to help our first responders and veterans with substance misuse with the hopes of changing their lives in the right direction. The facility is locate…

1
Does Online Training Actually Work? 1:07:34

7M ago1:07:34

1:07:34

During the podcast, the hosts discuss the challenges of teaching online compared to in-person classes. They highlight the energetic and interactive nature of in-person teaching, where a dynamic dialogue between the teacher and students fosters engagement. The teacher can draw inspiration from the students' energy, creating a more immersive experien…

1
LEO Two-Gun Fundraiser Match in Elk Grove, CA, Hosted By "Definitely Not Instructors" on March 23, 2024 57:22

7M ago57:22

57:22

Quick podcast with Austin, who's been a Deputy Sheriff for 8 years, who breaks down the LEO only two gun fundraiser match they will be hosting on Saturday, March 23, 2024. The fundraiser match will be held at the Kenneth Royal Firearms Range in Elk Grove, CA, starting with the sign ins at 0700 hrs. Listen in as Austin mentions their sponsors for th…

1
SZN 6 EP 4 - Jon & Emily, Hold The Line Fly Fishing, A 501(c)(3) Non-Profit, Using Fly Fishing to Calm PTS for Our Brothers & Sisters / Resources to a Dept. After a Fire Fighter Died By Suicide 1:09:18

7M ago1:09:18

1:09:18

Joining from Southern California via zoom is Jon and Emily, two Co-Founders of Hold The Line Fly Fishing, a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit with the mission of using fly fishing to connect first responders, provide a trip to camp/fish, and calm the effects of Post Traumatic Stress. Jon, a 15 year fire fighter who is currently an engineer & paramedic with a sw…

1
SZN 6 EP 3 - Megan, T.O.C. Contracted Trauma Informed Coach / The Realty of Insurance & Liability / Benefits of Working w/ a Coach / Importance of Healing Quickly Instead of Waiting 1:30:16

7M ago1:30:16

1:30:16

Joining via zoom from San Diego, CA, is Megan Zuzevich. Megan is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), EMDR trained, and specializes in Trauma & EMDR. Megan comes from a Law Enforcement family and spent some time working in correctional facilities. Megan discussed the benefits of working with a Coach instead of your traditional therapist…

1
SZN 6 EP 2 - Lauren, Ret. U.S. Air Force Captain w/ PTSD Diagnosis / Sexual Assault Victim by Air Force Captain / U.S. Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operation / Murder Suicide / U.S. Navy Suicide / Chinook ... 1:20:38

8M ago1:20:38

1:20:38

Joining via zoom from Tampa, Florida, is Lauren Frazier. Lauren spent 8 1/2 years in the United States Air Force (U.S.A.F.) and retired with a diagnoses of PTSD as a Captain. Lauren's husband is a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S.A.F. for the past 17 1/2 years. Lauren has her Masters of Social Work, Dual Certification, 200 Hour Yoga Certification, and…

1
Mastering Breathwork for Optimal Performance 1:45:45

8M ago1:45:45

1:45:45

In this powerful episode, Olivia Mead and Eric Brenneman from Yoga for First Responders join Jeremy Sanders from the Crew First Culture podcast to discuss the importance of breath work and breathing techniques. They dive into the science behind these techniques and provide valuable insights on when and why to use them. Whether you're a first respon…

1
Be Here Tomorrow: My Arena & T.O.C. Training on February 19, 2024 in San Mateo, California 1:07:32

8M ago1:07:32

1:07:32

Joining via Zoom in Ohio is Travis Gribble and Jennifer Cooper from My Arena. Listen in to get an introduction of Travis and Jennifer. Travis was previously on T.O.C.'s podcast (SZN 5 EP 1) and spoke at T.O.C.'s 3rd Annual Fundraiser. Jennifer, a Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor, was Travis's therapist at the beginni…

1
SZN 6 EP 1 - T.O.C. Update: Debrief 2023, Preview of 2024, Updated Therapy & Podcast Stats 38:35

8M ago38:35

38:35

Enjoy Greg's voice this entire episode as you get a debrief of Statistic Updates, 2023, and 2024 events. 2024 is going to be a great year for T.O.C. as we have a big event on 2/19 with Travis Gribble, Greg is traveling to Louisiana in March, our 3 year anniversary meet up, and our 4th Annual Fundraiser. Listen to this episode for the most updated t…

1
SZN 5 EP 20 - Jamie, PTSD Retirement From Australia P.D. / The Smell of Diesel / Triple Fatality / Suicidal Ideations / Full EMDR Breakdown / Antidepressants / Seriously Assaulted on Duty 2:06:21

8M ago2:06:21

2:06:21

Joining T.O.C. Podcast from Bendigo Australia via zoom is Jamie Ward. Jamie retired as a Police Officer in Australia with a Chronic PSTD diagnosis and shares his lengthy journey in his treatment process. Jamie offers a great comparison between Australia and the United States of America in regards to the stigma and culture amongst our first responde…

1
SZN 5 EP 19 - Donna, Advice For Spouses/Significant Others In Our Community / Holiday Challenges / Married to LEO/Vet for 38 years & Two Children As First Responders 32:11

8M ago32:11

32:11

Joining in the studio is Donna, T.O.C. Board of Directors Chair of the Board, who discusses the challenges of being married to an LEO and U.S. Service Member and having two children who are first responders. We talked about challenges of attending holidays and weddings alone while your loved one is on shift or deployed overseas, which Donna has exp…

1
SZN 5 EP 18 - Maggie, T.O.C. Therapist / Spouse of Fire Fighter / Holiday Challenges / Three Military Family Members Died By Suicide / 809 Fight For Awareness 1:05:19

8M ago1:05:19

1:05:19

Joining from Ventura, CA is Maggie Hernandez, a T.O.C. contracted therapist, who is half way through the process of becoming a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. Maggie is married to Erik, who has been a Fire Fighter for the City of Pasadena for 10 years and a mother of two. Maggie and Erik are both on the Board of Directors for …

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Yoga For First Responders Podcasts

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