Surviving Your Shift, Building Responder Wellness

By: Dr. Bart J. Leger
  • Summary

  • Do you collapse after a grueling shift, too drained to enjoy dinner with family, or struggle to comfort a coworker after a tough call? As a retired first responder with 25+ years in traumatic stress, I understand. I’ve helped thousands navigate high-pressure jobs without treating life like a 911 call. Each week, you’ll hear unfiltered stories from those who’ve faced loss, trauma, and burnout yet found hope. Together, we’ll cover resilience, stress management, peer counseling, and more to help you thrive—on and off duty. Ready to reclaim energy and joy? Hit play, and let’s dive in.
    Dr. Bart J. Leger
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Episodes
  • Finding Calm in the Chaos
    Nov 19 2024

    Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the constant demands of the job? The fast pace, critical decisions, and unpredictable nature of frontline work can add up, even when we think we’re in control.

    Frontline work brings intense pressure, and managing stress is essential. In today’s episode, you’ll learn a quick, adaptable mindfulness technique that you can use anytime to find calm amidst chaos.

    Today’s episode introduces the 5-4-3-2-1 Grounding Technique, a powerful mindfulness exercise to bring focus and calm during high-stress moments. You can use it anytime, anywhere, to find clarity and reduce anxiety.

    BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:

    • A simple mindfulness technique to manage stress in the moment

    • How to engage your senses to ground yourself and find focus

    • Practical steps to incorporate this exercise into your daily routine

    Remember, taking a moment for self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. Try this technique the next time stress sneaks up on you.

    CONNECT WITH BART

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/bartleger/ | https://stresscaredoc.com

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    8 mins
  • How to Break the Stigma of Suicide
    Nov 12 2024

    Are you equipped to recognize and prevent suicide in those around you?

    Many people miss the signs of mental health struggles and feel helpless when loved ones are at risk. This episode dives into actionable ways you can make a difference.

    Shayna Klassen, National Training Director for QPR Institute, shares her journey from addiction and recovery to becoming a leader in suicide prevention. Discover the life-saving impact of QPR training and how you can get involved in preventing suicide.

    BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:

    • How Shayna’s personal journey led her to suicide prevention and the QPR Institute

    • The unique elements that set QPR apart from other suicide intervention models

    • How easy it is to become a QPR-certified gatekeeper or instructor to make a positive impact

    Join us to learn how you can be a part of the solution in suicide prevention.

    CONNECT WITH SHAYNA KLASSEN

    Website: QPR Institute

    Email: shayna@qprinstitute.com

    OTHER LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:
    QPR Gatekeeper and Instructor Training Information

    CONNECT WITH BART:

    Website: https://stresscaredoc.com
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bartleger/

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    34 mins
  • A First Responder’s Story of Resilience
    Nov 5 2024

    Growing up in a family rooted in law enforcement and education, Alan Cormier shares how his journey led him to advocate for mental health support within the first responder community. From impactful personal experiences to founding the nonprofit “With You,” Alan’s story is one of resilience and community care.


    What are the signs that burnout and stress are affecting your health and relationships?

    Burnout and the mental toll of high-stress jobs can go unnoticed until they start impacting health and family life. Allen Cormier’s journey highlights the importance of self-awareness and mental health support in the first responder community.

    BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:

    • How Alan’s personal experience in law enforcement inspired his mental health advocacy

    • Practical strategies first responders can use to manage stress and improve well-being

    • The role of community and support networks in creating sustainable mental health changes

    Join us in this conversation as Allen Cormier shares his story and actionable steps to help first responders thrive, not just survive.

    CONNECT WITH Allen

    FACEBOOK: facebook.com/WithYouSWLA

    WEBSITE: withyouswla.org

    CONNECT WITH BART:

    Website: https://stresscaredoc.com

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bartleger/

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    33 mins

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