Videos

When chaos is the name of the game you may feel like you thrive in it. Maybe even crave it BUT could it be something more?

https://www.afterthetonesdrop.com/the-nesting-doll-concept-aces-part-2/

#firstresponders #firefighter #lawenforcement #dispatcher #breakthestigma

Embark on a journey that goes beyond sirens and flashing lights as we provide a safe haven to explore, demystify, and destigmatize mental health and wellness for first responders.

Join us as we pull back the curtain, sharing powerful stories and expert insights that resonate with the heartbeat of those who run towards danger when others step back. It's more than just a podcast; it's a lifeline for the ones who dedicate their lives to saving others.

In each episode, we unravel the stories and struggles behind the badges, showcasing the human side of heroism. Discover the strength in vulnerability and the power in sharing. It's more than a conversation; it's a revolution—a revolution in mental health care for our first responders.

So, tune in for candid conversations, practical strategies, and a sprinkle of humor—because healing begins with understanding, and understanding starts here.

Let's break down the barriers, one episode at a time. Because after the tones drop, the real co…

This episode is a unique, unplanned and vulnerable episode delivered by Erin one sleepless evening. Erin shares her unexpected journey through the maze of personal relationships with those who "wear a uniform" for a living. It wasn't some grand plan; it's just a series of chance encounters that lead her down a path she never expected.

Now, brace yourself for the heart-wrenching twist. The climax of Erin's romantic escapades with first responders was a firefighter dealing not just with the physical toll of his job but also the heavy burden of severe PTSD. This wasn't a breakup saga; it was a rollercoaster of emotions, and the man she cared about deeply ended up succumbing to the demons haunting his mind. It was a gut punch that hit Erin like a ton of bricks.
But here's the turning point—it wasn't just the tragic end of a love story. It became the catalyst for Erin's mission. This firefighter's struggle, his silent battle with PTSD that ultimately led to his death, sparked something in…

Allow us to introduce Jessica Wiederhold, a dedicated professional who has been making a significant impact in the field of emergency services and dispatch management. In this episode, Jessica offers a raw and vulnerable reality check pulling back the curtain of a day in the life of a dispatcher and the various hurdles they face.

Jessica currently serves as the Director of the Clermont County 9-1-1 Center, a role she has held for a brief yet impactful 8 months. Her journey within the center began with her appointment as Assistant Director, where she gained invaluable insights and experience during a 5-month tenure. Prior to her leadership roles, Jessica served as a Program Administrator within the Clermont 9-1-1 Center, showcasing her commitment to the organization's growth and success.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Jessica is married to a firefighter. This connection to the world of firefighting has inspired her to recognize the value of peer support teams in fire departments…

Over the course of the last two episodes, we hope we've done a sufficient job in helping our listeners understand what Adverse Childhood Experiences are, how they impact our developing brain and how our childhood experiences affect our now with the nesting doll concept.

In this final episode for our ACES series, we're really going to talk about, what to do about it now. Just because we've done these certain behaviors or reacted this way does not mean that we can't learn something new. We can adapt and grow. Our brains are miraculous. This is why we're obsessed with the brain, because it can morph and change, and this is where neuroplasticity comes in. The idea that despite whatever development our brain has already had, we can still create different pathways, new ways of thinking, it can adapt to healthier ways of being if that's what we choose.

These examples and more are discussed in this episode to assist you in understanding our potential, to reshape our brains and establish f…

On our first full video episode released, we're diving deep into the twisted maze of our past, like we're untangling a bunch of Russian nesting dolls. You know, those dolls that hide one inside the other, like a secret within a secret. It's a metaphor that's so on point because life is like that—layer upon layer, each one representing a version of you from a different time.

So, picture this: you're building up layers around yourself, just like those dolls, and why? 'Cause life throws crap at you, especially in your early years. These layers, aren't just for show; they're like your armor, your shield against a world that can be as welcoming as a porcupine in a balloon factory.

And let us tell you, the more junk life throws at you, the more layers you slap on. But here's the kicker: within these layers, hidden like a treasure chest in a haunted attic, are your younger selves. Yeah, those versions of you that went through the crap, the joy, the heartbreak—all of it.

Now, uncove…

You start out as an eager rookie/probie, ready to save lives and make a difference. You got the shiny badge, the uniform that fits just right, and you feel like a hero. People look up to you, trust you with their lives, and it's a rush. But somewhere along the line, it starts to change.

See, when you're a first responder, the job becomes your life. It's not just a 9 to 5 gig where you punch in and punch out. It's 24/7, no days off, and the weight of the world on your shoulders. You're constantly on call, ready to jump into action at a moment's notice. And slowly but surely, that's all you become.

For the Full Episode, Visit: https://www.afterthetonesdrop.com/hotline-caller-conflicted-identity/

It's crucial to understand that avoidance, while it may seem like a protective shield, can actually backfire on us. It can leave us feeling detached, emotionally numb, and even lead to anger or frustration.

For the whole episode, visit: https://www.afterthetonesdrop.com/

To listen to the full episode, visit: https://www.afterthetonesdrop.com/honest-open-willing/Sometimes, asking for help can be one of the hardest things a person will do. It requires a certain level of vulnerability, surrender and trust. However, that’s just what Marine Corps veteran and retired law enforcement officer, Brian Gillespie did. Brian, born and raised in Jersey City, came to terms with his own struggles with substance abuse more than eight years ago and hasn't looked back.

Brian has been involved in the first responder world since 1982, when he joined the US Marine Corps from 1982-1986. Until today, he has been active in that first responder community. He left the Marines in 86 and began his career a few years later in law enforcement. Even though he's retired, he is still active in drums and pipes groups, and very active with a Police Benevolent Association. That's just Social Civic. Then you throw in the professional aspect. Now he has become a treatment advocate for …

After a tragic line of duty death in his department, our first guest quite literally pulled himself up by his bootstraps. His journey and what he has done with the lessons from his personal experiences has created a domino effect. Listen and hear how he facilitated changes around mental health in his own department and many more in the surrounding Ohio/Kentucky/Indiana Tristate area.

Mental health challenges affect millions of first responders around the world. Unfortunately, misconceptions about therapy often discourage people from seeking help. They also contribute to the stigma surrounding mental health issues, and prevent people from learning more about or utilizing the services of trained mental health professionals.

After the Tones Drop hosts spend some time filtering through and debunking some of the most common myths of therapy, such as:

• Only “crazy” or “mental” people need to talk to therapists. I haven’t lost my mind. I’m not having a nervous breakdown, so I don’t need a therapist
• Talking to a therapist is for people who are weak, or who don’t have enough will power. We should solve our own problems
• Once I start therapy, I will have to go forever. Counseling takes forever.
• All you do in therapy is talk about your past relationship with your parents / therapists blame a client’s problem on their upbringing
• A counselor doesn’t kn…

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Hey there listeners, We are so thrilled to have the opportunity to bring you After the Tones Drop podcast.  Our show gives a safe platform to explore, demystify, and destigmatize mental health wellness for first responders.


We are two unconventional, quick witted, and culturally competent first responder clinicians offering a new take and understanding of what mental health wellness looks like in the first responder world.


We will be offering you  content in various areas, including first responder guest interviews, first responder based current events, and a series created solely around helping you understand just what in the heck is actually happening in your brain and body. All of these topics are intended to provide you with some valuable tools and a better understanding of the true impact the job has on you but more importantly, allow you to see that you are not alone and that it’s ok to talk about…