2nd Alarm Project Radio

In this episode of 2nd Alarm Project Radio , we tackle one of the most overlooked threats to first responder wellness: sleep deprivation and shift work . Host Mike Bellamy is joined by Dr. Kellie O'Dare and Dr. Joel Billings , a former firefighter and sleep scientist, to break down how irregular sleep patterns affect everything from decision-making to long-term mental health. Dr. Billings brings a...

In this exciting episode of 2nd Alarm Project Radio , we break down a game-changing partnership between UCF RESTORES and the 2nd Alarm Project . Host Mike Bellamy is joined by two pioneers in first responder mental health— Dr. Deborah Beidel , Executive Director of UCF RESTORES, and Dr. Kellie O'Dare , Deputy Director, UCF RESTORES & founder of the 2nd Alarm Project—to discuss what this collaborat...

In this compelling episode of  2nd Alarm Project Radio , we dive into the often-overlooked topic of moral injury with Wendy Norris, a firefighter, certified grief educator, and founder of the Texas Line of Duty Task Force. Wendy shares her journey in the fire service, spanning over 30 years, and how a devastating career-ending injury reshaped her purpose. Wendy explains moral injury—a spiritual an...

Stories That Shaped the Year | Our 2024 Year in Review Episode In this special year-in-review episode, we take you on a journey through the highlights of Second Alarm Project Radio's inaugural year. From insightful conversations with mental health experts to powerful stories of resilience from first responders, we revisit the moments that made the biggest impact. We dive into topics like the Strug...

In this powerful episode of 2nd Alarm Project Radio, hosts Mike Bellamy and Dr. Kellie O'Dare continue the critical conversation on suicide prevention in the first responder community. Joined by Deputy Heather Bruce, a 17-year law enforcement veteran from Northwest Florida, we explore the deeply personal and professional challenges Heather has faced throughout her career. From her early days as a...

In this episode of 2nd Alarm Project Radio to coincide with National Suicide Prevention Month, Dr. Kellie O'Dare, Executive Director and Founder of 2AP, joins as a guest DJ as we explore suicide awareness and prevention among first responders with Chief Dena Ali. We explore her journey from law enforcement to firefighting and her transition into mental health advocacy.  Our discussion covers the i...

In this episode, we have a special show as we welcome Guest DJ, Jeff Orrange from 2AP/Orlando Fire Department and explore the process of building peer support within your department and address the unique challenges faced by first responders, especially in law enforcement. Nicole Troelstrup, Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified First Responder Counselor and Peer Team Member, Sergeant Rac...

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 Divisio...

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 chal...

In this episode, guests Dan and Christine Brite recount their journeys into law enforcement, including a life-altering event in 2016. They share their experiences of facing challenges, overcoming adversity, and finding purpose through their work with the Douglas County Colorado Sheriff's Office. With the support of department leadership, Dan has transformed the agency's culture, emphasizing the im...

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...

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 e...

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...