Matthew Heneghan: Unfiltered

Unwritten Chapters – A Big Week: Speaking in Afghanistan, A National Honor, and A Literary Win Episode Summary: Welcome back to Unwritten Chapters ! This episode is a big one—I'm sharing some incredible milestones that have unfolded in my life this week. From speaking to a group of young writers in Afghanistan to receiving a national honor in Canada, and even winning an award for my fiction writin...

There are some moments from childhood that stay with you forever—the ones that felt like a secret written just for you and your closest friends. This is the story of the time we found a hidden passage behind locker 214 in our middle school. A dusty crawl space filled with forgotten desks, old typewriters, and echoes of students long before us. It wasn’t just a secret hideout—it was an adventure, a...

Episode Summary: In this episode of Unwritten Chapters , we dive into the guilt many of us feel when taking a mental health day. Why do we reward overworking but feel bad about resting? I share a personal story about a recent family mental health day and explore why we associate productivity with worth, why we struggle to justify rest, and how we can start reframing rest as a necessity rather than...

In this episode of the Unwritten Chapters podcast (formerly A Medic's Mind ), we’re revisiting the past to uncover how it helps in moving forward in life. Join me as I reflect on my very first podcast episode, sharing powerful paramedic stories and my PTSD journey. This mental health podcast dives into overcoming trauma, recovery from addiction, and the highs and lows of my paramedic experienc...

Discover how midlife growth can lead to incredible personal evolution and a fulfilling life after 40 . In this video, I share insights into navigating fatherhood , embracing personal growth in your 40s , and finding meaning through midlife reflections . Explore how career stability , a parenting perspective , and life lessons at 40 shape your journey. From growing through decades to cherishing hig...

Discover practical wildfire mental health strategies and PTSD coping tips from a survivor's perspective. Learn how to manage stress in emergencies, navigate wildfire evacuation preparation, and build mental resilience during disasters. This video offers essential evacuation mental health tips and insights into dealing with anxiety and trauma from wildfires, providing support and guidance for survi...

Episode Description: In this deeply personal episode, I honor the 5th anniversary of my sister Lisa's passing with a heartfelt tribute. Through a story woven with love, reflection, and grief, I explore the unbreakable bond we shared and the lasting impact she has on my life. Set to music, this episode is more than a remembrance—it’s a story of love, gratitude, and the lessons we learn through loss...

Episode Summary: In this heartfelt and reflective episode of Unwritten Chapters , host Matthew Heneghan challenges the all-too-common notion of “holiday stress.” Drawing from personal experience, Matthew shares how the holidays have evolved for him—from moments of loneliness and pressure to a season of joy, connection, and realistic expectations. 🎧 Tune in to discover: Why “holiday” and “stress”...

Episode Summary: In this heartfelt and reflective episode of Unwritten Chapters , host Matthew Heneghan challenges the all-too-common notion of “holiday stress.” Drawing from personal experience, Matthew shares how the holidays have evolved for him—from moments of loneliness and pressure to a season of joy, connection, and realistic expectations. 🎧 Tune in to discover: Why “holiday” and “stress”...

🎙️ "Why I Rebranded: A Story of Change, Growth, and New Beginnings" In this episode, award-winning author Matthew Heneghan shares why he turned the page on his podcast, rebranding it from A Medic’s Mind to Unwritten Chapters . If you’ve ever faced a moment where change was necessary for growth, this episode is for you. Why the rebrand? Learn how the old title limited growth and why Unwritten Chapt...

Hello everyone, and welcome to Unwritten Chapters. I’m your host, Matthew Heneghan—an award-winning author, former paramedic, and military veteran. In 2017, I was diagnosed with PTSD and depression as a result of my time in service, and since then, I’ve been on a journey of learning—about myself, about how to navigate the world, and about finding self-compassion when it feels impossible. Writing b...

Hey, everyone. Matt here. So, no episode this week. As we near the wonderous holiday that is Christmas, life tends to get a little busy and thus, as this is a one man operation around here at A Medic's Mind the podcast, I run out of time to get the things done that I'd like it. But, I plan to release an episode the following Tuesday, December 17th at the usual time, so be on the lookout for that....

This week on A Medic's Mind , I step into the ring of my own life to share an unforgettable weekend. Join me as I dive into my love for WWE wrestling, recount the plane ride that tested my nerves, and reflect on a fancy dinner where I met some of my favorite wrestlers like Bron Breaker, Candice LaRae, Chelsea Green, and Tiffany Stratton. I’ll take you to the electrifying atmosphere of Survivor Ser...

Why do we feel the need to hide our emotions? Even when it’s natural to express them, societal pressures often push us to suppress our feelings. In this episode of A Medic's Mind , we explore how these cultural norms impact our mental health and why vulnerability is a powerful strength, not a weakness. Through personal stories and professional insights , I’ll uncover the mental and physical toll o...

In this special Remembrance Day episode of A Medic’s Mind , I share two deeply personal stories that reflect on the bonds of brotherhood, the pain of loss, and the enduring power of memory. These stories honor the lives of Cpl. Andrew Eykelenboom, Cpl. Michael Starker, and Pte. Colin Wilmot—brothers who made the ultimate sacrifice. I also take you behind the scenes of my contribution to the Canadi...

What is an end-of-life doula, and how do they support individuals and families in one of life’s most challenging times? In my latest podcast episode, I had the honor of speaking with Anne from Red Door Doula , an end-of-life doula with a compassionate and deeply meaningful approach to supporting those facing their final chapter. We discuss how a doula provides emotional support, helps families pre...

In this heartfelt episode of A Medic’s Mind , titled “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay: Acceptance in the Face of Anxiety and PTSD,” Matthew Heneghan opens up about a recent PTSD flashback triggered by a sound that unexpectedly transported him back to his days as a paramedic. This episode explores the unpredictable nature of triggers and the profound impact they can have on mental health, even after years...

In this episode, I dive deep into the harsh realities of life as a paramedic—where saving lives comes at a personal cost. With burnout, PTSD, and mental health struggles affecting so many first responders, we ask the hard question: Is becoming a paramedic still worth it? I explore the emotional highs and lows of the job, share personal insights on how paramedics navigate trauma, and discuss ways t...

In this Thanksgiving special, I reflect on a poignant memory from 2004 at Camp Borden, Ontario. Alone in a quiet barracks, sitting at a table with a less-than-ideal holiday meal, I found myself contemplating what 'home' truly meant. Fast forward twenty years, and my sense of home and gratitude has transformed in ways I could never have imagined. Join me as I share this personal story of change, fa...

Thanksgiving is traditionally seen as a time to gather with family, but what if your family has caused more harm than joy? In this heartfelt episode of A Medic’s Mind , I explore the freedom of creating your own family in adulthood—a circle of people who support, uplift, and love you for who you are. Join me as I share my own journey of walking away from toxic family dynamics, the guilt of moving...

Join me in this special episode of 'A Medic's Mind' as I recount my trip to Victoria, British Columbia, where I received the prestigious Medal of Good Citizenship. This personal update highlights not just the honor itself but the unforgettable memories created with my family. From our first ferry ride together to exploring Victoria's historical landmarks, museums, and a gluten-free treat for my da...

Hey everyone, welcome back to A Medic's Mind . As Remembrance Day approaches, I’ve been thinking about something that’s been on my mind for a while: the way veterans sometimes turn on each other. Today, I’m diving into the complicated issue of veteran pride and the tension that seems to exist within our ranks. Why do some veterans criticize others for showing pride in their service? Why is the...

As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to fall, there’s no better way to embrace the cozy season than with a good movie. In this episode of A Medic’s Mind , I’m sharing my top 5 must-watch autumnal films that perfectly capture the magic of the season. From heartwarming tales of friendship to nostalgic coming-of-age stories, these movies will have you reaching for a blanket and a warm drink. T...

In this episode of A Medic’s Mind , join me as I take you through an unexpected journey—a trip to the Interior Provincial Exhibition (IPE) in Armstrong. A simple day out with family might sound ordinary, but for someone living with PTSD, events like this can be overwhelming. However, amidst the bustling fairgrounds, loud noises, and flashing lights, I found moments of peace, nostalgia, and even jo...

In this episode of A Medic's Mind, I address a recent negative message accusing me of stealing stories and being dishonest about my paramedic service. Join me as I dive into the toxicity within the paramedic field, the importance of protecting identities in storytelling, and how to navigate online negativity. Learn how to stay true to your own story, understand the source of accusations, and g...