What Makes Us Fire

On this episode of the podcast I finally sit down and share the ugly, harsh, and hard to hear truth that is my story. However, as difficult as it to tell this story, it is what sparked and help create what is now WhatMakesUsFire. Here, I am hoping to be what I have asked so many others to be on this show. Open, honest, and "naked" in the truth. I do this in the hope that my story helps ignite someone else to take the first steps in becoming the best version of themselves. Its a journey, are hard fought journey to becoming whole with who you are and who you truly want to be in this life. Through hardship, trauma, and stress we can truly become the greatest versions of ourselves if we just allow ourselves to grow and learn through them. Hopefully, just maybe, my story can help you do just that.This is my story, the story of what exactly WhatMakesUsFire is, and how the mission WILL change our world for the better.Support the show

On this episode of the podcast we have my good friend Joe Short, better/ formally known on social media as VeilPierce. Joe takes us on a ride with the story of his past and how he managed to grow and learn from it. Diving into his military experience, faith, and personal growth, this mans story is bound to help some who may believe there is no way out. I am very grateful for Joe's candidness and honesty throughout this interview, and I truly hope you take a serious listen to how someone can overcome some of life's biggest challenges.WhatMakesUsFire Family please help me welcome Mr. Joe Short to the show.Follow him on social media @joe.shortFollow and support the WhatMakesUsFire Foundation and Podcast at www.whatmakesusfire.org  Support the show

On this episode of the podcast we have the popular Deputy Dane from social media! He sits down with me and we dive into an array of topics with really no break in-between. If you ever wondered what its like to listen to two guys throwing idea after idea at each other, this is the show for you. WhatMakesUsFire Family please help me welcome Mr. Deputy Dane, "The Proud Pig"Follow @deputydane on TT and @deputy_dane on IG.Support the show and the nonprofit by visiting www.whatmakesusfire.orgSupport the show

On this episode of the podcast we have Mr. Nick, better known as "Poppa Bear" or @Poppa_Bear_1.0 on social media.Poppa and I, discuss his 36 years in the fire service and how it has changed for him. He also shares his battle with mental health issues, and how he has found a way to overcome them.Poppa shares his story without hesitation, all in hopes of helping someone who may be moved by his story.Please help me welcome The Poppa Bear Firefighter.Support the show www.whatmakesusfire.orgSupport the show

On this episode of the podcast we have my friend, my brother, Chris U. He is better known to his friends as Umbe.Chris has been a life long friend and brother, with stories to tell. He is a NAVY Veteran, father, a new entrepreneur, and board member of The WhatMakesUsFire Foundation.I invited him on to share his history with us and the battle with his demons.WhatMakesUsFire Family, Please help me welcome OUR Brother Umbe. Support the show

On this episode of the podcast we have Mr. Brandon DeFoure. A career Firefighter and part-time Cop. Brandon and I talk about what it is like for a young individual, such as himself, to enter into the Civil Service world at a young age, and how it effected him. Since Brandon started in the civil service at such a young age he seems to have a pretty good idea of what to expect, when it wasn't expected.WhatMakesUsFire Family please help me welcome my friend Brandon to the show.Brandon's Social Media - @bwdefoure343Support the Show - www.whatmakesusfire.orgSupport the show

On this episode of the podcast we have Air Force Veteran, successful business owner, and author, Mr. Bob Taylor.Bob's writing of From Service to Success is a cornerstone of The Patriot Promise™ Foundation, which he founded to help drive down the rate of suicides among veterans and to provide a clear path forward as our warfighters transition into a new mission and new purpose following their service. The Patriot Promise™ Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. The foundation is establishing non-profit ventures run 100% by veterans and offering veterans the ability to learn new skills in the workplace while also learning to enhance their lives through a training program based on the book. But, its first priority is to get 100,000 of From Service to Success into the hands of veterans through donations from the public.patriotpromise.orgSupport the show : www.whatmakesusfire.orgSupport the show

On this episode of the podcast we have Mr. Al Wright, better known as @The_Hurtun_Alburton on social media.Al takes us on a crazy ride/ story about his life, and how loving unconditionally can sometimes lead to disaster. He is a suicide survivor, making a change to hopefully make a change in the world. He shares his story in hopes he can help save someone from making the terrible choice he made only 3 years ago.WhatMakesUsFire Family please help me welcome Mr. Al Wright.@The_Hurtun-Alburton@WhatMakesUsFire Support the Podcast and Foundation at www.whatmakesusfire.orgSupport the show

On this episode of the podcast, we have a returning guest, Mr. Jason Patton of Fire Department Chronicles and Fire Dept. Coffee. Most know Jason from his YouTube videos highlighting the funny situations we as Firefighters deal with on a daily basis. However, what some may not know, he is a very large voice in the advocacy for mental health within the Civil Service. This episode we talk on how we can start making a change on the culture currently within our Civil Service.WMUF Family please help welcome back Mr. Jason Patton.Social Media @FireDeptChronicles & @ FireDeptCoffeeSupport The Show & Foundation @ www.whatmakesusfire.orgSupport the show

On this episode of the podcast we have Mr. James M. better known on social media as @ChiefNitro.A retired NAVY Veteran, Chief takes us on a ride with his story of past experiences in the military, with his family, and how he has found a way to work through everything with the most positive outlook on life anyone would be envious of.WMUF Family please help me welcome Mr. Chief NitroSocial Media @chiefnitroSupport the show : www.whatmakesusfire.orgSupport the show

On this episode of the podcast we have Mr. Brian. Him and I talk about his past life of crime, and incarceration and how he has grown from it. Brian also talks about how mental health played into his choices in life and how he has fought to overcome the damage it created. Please help me welcome my friend Brian.Support the show www.whatmakesusfire.orgSupport the show

On this episode of the podcast I have Mr. Shawn L., known for his published book "Veteran Mindset 2.0". A successful podcast "From Struggles To Success" and on his social media platforms as @Sir_Veteranguy.Check out his non profit vetlife4life.com and give him a follow on social media.Support the show by visiting WhatMakesUsFire.org  Support the show

On this episode of the podcast we have avid chef, and life coach Mr. Josh B. Better known on his social media as @TimeoutWithJosh.His story takes us to a perspective of a home schooled child, chef, and contracted military specialist. All of which seem to have contributed in some way, to his mental health issues he faced later on in his life. Josh then takes us through what it was, and how he found his way back to himself. His true self. His purpose.WhatMakesUsFire Family, sit back and relax, it's time to have a "Timeout" with Josh.www.whatmakesusfire.orgwww.timeoutwithjosh.comSupport the show

On this episode of the podcast we have my friend Mr. David Allen Stone, also known on social media as @DavidAllenStoneMusic. A currently enlisted ARMY National Guardsman, David sits with me and shares his life experiences that he found had lead him to struggling with his mental health. Having a "shit show" of an experience on his first deployment, to having experienced something that would have broken the strongest of us. He shares how he found his way back to peace.WhatMakesUsFire Family, please help me welcome my friend Mr. David Allen StoneSupport the show

On this episode of the podcast we have Mr. Dylan Gray, better known on social media as @dylangraymusic37. Dylan joins us on the show to share his story of his past, and how he continues to work through his mental health struggles from it. He has found a passion in music to share his story in hope he can help millions. However, he knows that if it's not going to be a million, then let it be just one. WMUF family please help me welcome Mr. Dylan Gray Support the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

On this episode of the podcast we have Mrs. Lauren D. Lane, better known as Lo to her friends. Her and I sit and talk about hitting rock bottom and how that is what was needed to start making a change in our lives. Dark humor, finding yourself within the job, and really finding yourself are all things Lo had to figure out for herself, and the journey wasn't all that pleasant. Please help me welcome Lo, to the WMUF Podcast.Find Lo on social media with the tag @laurendowdlaneHelp the WMUF Podcast & Non-Profit at www.whatmakesusfire.comSupport the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

On this episode of the podcast we have a returning guest, Adam Fiegle. Better known on social media as @1TFHL. Over the past year since he has been on the show, there has been a lot of change in his life. Change that was intentional and some change that was unexpected. He shares with us how it has helped mold him, and help him grow within himself. We discuss what that changed looked like for himself, and where he plans on going from here. WMUF Family, please help me welcome back my brother, Adam.... and remember ADWAW!!!!Follow him on social media with the tag @1TFHL.Help support the show and Non-profit @ www.whatmakesusfire.comSupport the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

On this episode of the podcast I have the strong, tenacious, and courageous Mrs. Melissa. Melissa is a Gold Star Wife, losing her husband to cancer believed and proven to have been an effect from the chemicals he was around while he was serving in the US ARMY. She shares the trials and obstacles since losing her husband just over a year ago. She is an advocate for our Military and First Responder members, and believes her story can and will be the start to changing the system that is the VA. WMUF Family please help me welcome my dear friend Melissa.Find her on social media with the tag @ARMYWifeMelissGoldStarSupport the WMUF Podcast and Foundation by donating at www.whatmakesusfire.comSupport the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

On this episode of the podcast we have returning guests, Mr. and Mrs. Brian and Kendra Ward. Creators, and founders of the 4Ward Project, a project created in the name of their son, Mr. Eric Ward, a veteran who lost his battle with depression and became part of the 22 A Day. Their mission, to bring awareness and support to those within the veteran community and their families, that they are not alone. Creating the "Rock" for Eric program, designed to share Eric's story of his life and the positive change he made, and continues to make, in the lives of countless of people.WMUF family, please help me welcome my family Brian and Kendra Ward.www.4wardproject.comSupport the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

On this episode we have my friend Tex, better known on his social media as TexasInfidel88. I invited Tex onto the show to share his journey through the crazy thing we call life. Growing up an adopted child, going into the NAVY, then realizing he was suffering from a mental health issue. Tex shares how he manages his mental health, and honestly allows me to challenge his perspective on how he may continue to treat, and work through his issues. Please welcome my friend Tex, the guy with a crap ton of user names.@texasinfidel88 on TikTokSupport the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

On this episode of the podcast we have someone that goes without a name. For our purposes and for the show however we will call him Leo, better known on social media as TheGreatLondini.Com. A Marine veteran, and IT guru, Leo takes us through his past and the challenges he faced growing into the man he is today. We dive into a bit of his Military past, and what he has done to overcome the demons he faces from the experience. Moreover, we discuss his passion for what he is doing on social media, and his mission to hold horrible people that hide behind a keyboard and screen accountable.Ladies and Gentlemen please welcome "Leo" creator and founder of The Great Londini Movement.www.thegreatlondini.comSupport the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

On this episode of the podcast we have Mr. Shayne, better known on his social media as Smash_Ohana. Coming from a pretty rough childhood, and growing into the positive big smiling guy he is now was no easy feat. Shayne takes us through what it was like dealing with his struggles growing up and we dive into the life that almost broke him. We discuss how important those that are in our lives can have  effect on our decisions to become better for ourselves. The humility that is sometimes thrown in our faces, and hitting rock bottom can be the drive that changes us for the better.WMUF family please help me welcome Mr. Shayne, Smashing the struggle through Family.Support the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

On this episode of the podcast we have my friend Billy, better known on social media as Swat.2422. We discuss his childhood growing up with very little to nothing, and how that became a drive for him to be better than his past. He discusses how he has found his center, like a lot of us, using social media as an outlet from inside his head. Sharing his story and positive messages in hpes to just change one life for the better.WMUF please help me welcome Mr. Swat.2422 to the show.Support the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

On this episode of the podcast, we have a returning guest. My friend Pedro, better known on social media as Popz_951.An ARMY service member, and social media influencer, Popz sits down with us and we reflect on this past years ('21) trials and accomplishments. Realizing what impact we have on people can sometimes put a burden on our shoulders. Constantly feeling like we can't stop or give up, not even for ourselves to take a break. Him and I discuss how we handle that and how we have found that, no matter what, we should ALWAYS put ourselves first. Not only for ourselves, but for those that look up to us.WMUF please help me welcome back Popz!!Support the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

Annnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnd WE ARE BACK!!!! What better way to start off the New Year with one of the most high energy people I know. Ms. Nova, better know as Nova.Kayne on her social media accounts. A former paramedic of 12 years, her and I sit down and hash it out about her childhood, finding her way into the first responder realm of life, and; why the hell are you the "Feral Chicken?"Nova has a knack of aggressive positivity, and when I say aggressive, I mean you will not know whether or not to cry or be really happy. WhatMakesUsFire Family please help me welcome my friend "The Feral Chicken" Ms. Nova Kayne.Support the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

On this episode of the podcast we have my friend Brian, better known as Detective_Diddy on social media.A detective in the New York area, Brian shares with us all that it is to be a civil service member that investigates crimes against children. We sit and have the conversation, that at times seems to be a bit uncomfortable. However, he doesn't shy away from it. As a matter of fact he embraces it and allows new ideas to challenge his own.WMUF please help me welcome Mr. Detective Diddy.Support the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

On this episode of the show, we have Mr. Lu. Better known on social media as JamminLu21, a Latino Veteran who is not afraid to tell you like he sees it.Lu has made a name for himself on social media as an outspoken veteran, pissed at hypocrisy, and standing up for his Battles when they need it.We speak on his past, and how he became the man he is today. Fair warning, he DOES NOT hold back on his views, and to be honest some of you might find his delivery a bit rough. However, in my opinion, that's the way it should be. For everyone.WMUF Family please help me welcome Mr. JamminLu21... He said what he said, and he ain't apologizing for it.Check out Lu's website for his merchandise www.jamminlu21.com Support the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

On this episode of the podcast I have the pleasure of FINALLY sitting down (in my truck btw) with one of my very best friends Mrs. Lauren. Also known as LaurenFire2232 on her social media profile TikTok. Lauren is a career Wildland Firefighter, having over 10 years in the profession. We talk about the job and some of the lacking there is for help with mental health issues. She does NOT shy away from her opinion and telling it like she sees it. We discuss what can be changed and how she can start making that change happen.Coming from a pretty traumatic childhood, Lauren tells her story of what it was like being the victim of Munchausen's syndrome, brought on by her mother. Sharing the details of how it affected her as a child and how she has overcome the traumatic experience of her childhood. Sharing her past and opening up about these issues has been a fight with herself to do, but she did it. All in hopes that her story, and bringing light to situations surrounding mental health within the realm of Wildland Firefighting will help others start their conversation.WMUF Family please help me welcome Lauren, apparently she's intimidating.  Support the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

On this episode of the podcast we have a, what I would call, man that defines the backbone of America. A man dedicating his life to a profession that sustains us in a way we all I think take for granted at times. His name is T.R. Jones, a dairy farmer in Virginia, and (he won't admit it) a social media influencer that continues to grow in popularity. The reason why he grows is due to his being as honest and real as a man can get. He brings it back to being human.T.R. takes us through his life growing up and a time when he didn't exactly know what he wanted to do with his life. Giving us history, and lesson on what we as America are doing to the farming industry, and the tolls it is taking on the men and women who decided to sacrifice for the job that they love.Open your ears everyone, this episode is about showing you that no matter who you are, we as human beings, under stress that we can't find a way out of, can kill us. It's as simple as that. Support T.R. and Richland Dairy Farm by visiting :https://www.richlandsdairyfarm.com/Support the WhatMakesUsFire Podcast and Non-Profit Foundation by visiting :www.whatmakesusfire.comSupport the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

On this episode of the podcast I want to introduce you to walking, living, talking history of a New York City Fireman. His name, Mr. Jerry Sanford. With over 50+ years in the fire service, you can bet Jerry has a story or two to share. Him and I talk about his childhood, growing up, and how he found himself working the best job in the world, in one of the largest cities in the world. Jerry also shares with us his battle with addiction, and how it affected himself, and the job. Jerry is also the co-author of a book, "It Started With A Helmet" a story of how a displaced NYFD Helmet was returned to its home the day before the 9/11 attacks. I want you all to listen to his story. Listen to this history. There is a lot we can learn from an old hat. I mean he actually made TO BE an Old Hat.Support the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

On this episode of the podcast we have my new friend, Tyler. Many do not know him on a personal level. As a matter of fact his K9, Arlo, will probably have a better chance of being recognized. Tyler is his handler, friend, his family. This episode we go through all of it. Tyler's life, and how he has managed to make it through some pretty RUFF times. (See what I did there? lol) He also takes us through what it is like to have someone like Arlo by his side all the time, and the bond between handler and K9.WMUF please help me welcome Mr. Tyler, better known as K9Arlo's dad.Support the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

On this episode of the podcast we have a pretty amazing guest. His name is Chris, the lead singer of the band TRAPT.   Chris, and I dive into his past, and how he has grown in his self worth, and mental health through out the years. From becoming a worldwide known artist at a young age, to maturing not only himself, but the music he creates.  Chris, and the band have nothing but respect for the Civil Service members of this country. He shares how he continues to support, and lift up our service members through, not only their actions, but also with their music.  Please help me welcome my friend Chris, lead singer of TRAPT.  **Stay tuned, at the end of the episode we have a SAMPLE PREMIRE of TRAPT's new song "ABOVE IT ALL"**  "Above It All" Mastered by Maor Appelbaum at Maor Appelbaum Mastering - California - U.S.A http://www.maorappelbaum.com/Support the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

On this episode of the podcast we have Mr. R. Louis better known on his social media accounts as @lonelydad007, and close friends as Black. An ARMY Veteran of 17 years, Black shares what life was like growing up, and how he found himself joining the armed forces. He also takes us through what it was that got him to dealing with his mental health issues, and how they affected his life. Black opens up and says "fuck it" to the haters that may give him flack for opening up. His mission is to help others start the conversation, because he knows what it is like to stay silent for too long. WMUF please help me welcome Mr. Black to the WhatMakesUsFire Podcast.Support the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

On this episode of the podcast we have Mr. Dylan. A 22 year old Veteran of the US ARMY. I asked this young gentleman to be a guest of the podcast for one reason, his maturity. Dylan is beyond his years when it comes to being self aware of his mental health and how it affects his life. He has shown through his ability to share who he truly is on the inside, and not being afraid of being judged, that he can be a voice in the fight against the stigma that is mental health.He and I bust each other's balls and its all in good fun. I hope you laugh, and learn something from this episode. I was happy to learn there is hope for the next generation.Support the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

WhatMakesUsFire,On today's episode of the show we are doing something a little different. I have been given permission to post an episode of the Behind The Badge Podcast, where I was a guest! Blue & Stepp were amazing hosts, and definitely have something big going. I couldn't have been more appreciative of them having me on their show.We dive into a hell of a conversation. Everything from jokes, the job, mental health, and me wanting to destroy my computer...I hope you enjoy the episode and take something from it, as I have.Support the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

WhatMakesUsFire Family,On this episode of the podcast we have my good friend Mr. J. Smith, better know as @Offical_Smith406 on his social media platforms. J takes us on a wild story of his childhood and how he found his way through it all to become a better man than what his history could have dictated for him. He is a wildland Firefighter, with a passion of building up the next generation of Firefighters. Doing his best in leaving the job he loves better than how he found it.So without saying too much else, please help me welcome Mr. J. Smith, a man becoming better than his past.Support the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

WMUF Family,On this episode of the podcast we have Toni, better known as southerngirlleo11 on her social media accounts. Toni, has been a long time supporter of the WMUF Family for a long time and doesn't plan on stopping. She is also a part of a new non-profit being formed called Blue Line PD, which is dedicated to helping Police Officers obtain gear that their departments can not currently afford to give them. Toni shares her story with us in what is the first time she starts her conversation in getting the help she is seeking. I ask that you listen with open ears and hearts, and know that her story is what drives her to be the LEO she is today.Without saying more please help me welcome Ms. Toni The Southern Girl LEOSupport the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

WMUF Family, Guess who is back on the WhatMakesUsFire Podcast!? The amazing Mrs. Morgan Matte, know also on social media as @morganmatte, an influencer showing how overcoming addiction and mental health issues CAN be done with a beautiful smile on your face. Morgan and I dive right back into mental health and how over the last 6 months we have grown individually with the shit storm we call life. She shares with us how she has found even more strength to overcome some recent tragic events, and how she has grown into an even stronger version of what is the already amazing soul she is. Morgan is dear to my heart and my life, so please help me welcome back Morgan Matte THE Warrior Among Us.Support the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

WhatMakesUsFire,On this episode of the podcast we have Ms. Melissa Parker also know on social media as @thekentuckyditchdoc. Author of the book "Living Through The Darkness" a Firefighter/ Paramedic's story of overcoming life's tragedies, Melissa shares the her story with us getting into the dirty details. Overcoming addiction, battling depression, and trying to find her way through her own darkness, she shows us that as long as you keep moving forward, it can be done.Please help me welcome Ms. Melissa Parker.Support the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

WhatMakesUsFire,On this episode of the podcast we have Devon, also know on social media as @two6zero6. Devon is, and has been a HUGE supporter of WhatMakesUsFire since the beginning, and now on the show, he shares with us a lot about himself. Going through a childhood trauma, not reaching what was always a childhood dream of his, and how he has found his way to accepting what his purpose in life came to be; Devon reveals this entire process to us.Please help me welcome Devon, MY Thin Red Line Brother.Support the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

WMUF Family,On this episode of the podcast, we have Mr. G. Scott. Better known on social media as @tiktok_peacock, the LEO that shakes those peacock tail feathers.G. Scott and I dive into his past, dealing with a toxic parent, and how he found his way out of that life. He shares how he became a LEO, and how the job has changed him in ways that he didn't see coming. G. Scott also shares with us his personal issues when dealing with mental health, and how he has found a way to start killing the stigma talking about it.Oh, and if you want to know how he has dubbed himself "The Tiktok Peacock" stay tuned towards the end, he is going to explain to us what "Peacocking" really is.WMUF please help me welcome Mr. G. Scott.Support the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

WhatMakesUsFire Family,On this episode of the podcast we have Mr. Josh Scales, better known as Officer_Scales on his social media platforms. And if you don't know who he is now, just wait, you will.Scales dives into his background and what it was like for him as a young black man, living in a rough part of town, and making the choice to become a Police Officer. He explains the trials he had to overcome from the community he lived in, and then the mental health aspects that came with the job. Scales has used his faith to guide him, and now, teaming up with a few other large social media influencers that are LEOs as well. He has become part of, and is building something that is meant to change the world we live in. He is "Becoming The Change".WMUF Family Please give a warm welcome to Mr. Officer_Scales   Support the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

WhatMakesUsFire Family,On this episode of the podcast we have Mr. Lance, better know as @s.i.r.l.a.n.c.e.l.o.t on social media. Lance is a Sheriff Officer who sits down with us and lets us in on his life, and what it is like for him and his fairly large family. He shares his insights on how the Mental Health stigma within the civil service world needs to be changed, and what he thinks the steps would be to make it happen. We also dive into how he has become a voice for "Humanizing" the Badge, using his social media influence along side his wife.I hope you learn something from this episode, as I know I did.Please help me welcome a Modern Day Knight, Mr. Sir. Lancelot.Support the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

WhatMakesUsFire Family, on this episode of the podcast we try something a bit different and new. I decided to try going Live on the social media site TikTok , and record a live Q&A session for the show. Let us know what you think, and how you think we can make this work a little better. The questions were good, and my responses were open and honest. I hope you enjoy this experiment of an episode. Lets get it!!!Support the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

WhatMakesUsFire Family, First, I want to say thank you for your support during my injury, and COVID quarantine. You have no idea how much you all mean to me.On this episode of the podcast we have Mr. J.P. Writes, a military veteran who has made a name for himself sharing his insights on politics. We do not get political here, more, the story is about how he has been able to do this as a respectful human being. He shares his stories of growing up, joining the military, and how he overcame his mental health issues along the way.WhatMakesUsFire Family please help me welcome Mr. J.P. Writes.Support the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

In this episode of the podcast we have my brother Mr. Karlis Anderson. A fellow firefighter that I have the pleasure to work with every tour I go to work, Karlis is considered to myself more than just a friend, but family. He talks to us about what it was like for him growing up and becoming the man he is today, a husband, father, firefighter, and a man battling his mental health issues in stride. However, it wasn't always that way for him, and he also shares with us how he came to be able to do so.This episode is near to my heart, in that Karlis, I consider one of the brothers that helped pull me out of the depression I was in. He helped save my life.WhatMakesUsFire Family please help me welcome my brother, Mr. Karlis Anderson. Support the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

On this episode of the pod cast we have Mr. Pedro, better known as @Popz_951. An active duty of our Armed Forces, and now a growing influencer, Popz has found a way to advocate for mental health awareness for all Civil Service Personnel. With his dimpled smile, and commanding presence, he has become an inspiration for many by allowing himself to share who he really is. He is going to share with us how he has overcome some of his own mental health issues, and what obstacles he had to fight within himself to do so. Popz is also the creator of the TikTok trend coined "#TheMarch". I wont go into detail on it, but I will let you know the story behind it is pretty bad ass.WhatMakesUsFire Family, please help me welcome Mr. Pedro, better know as Popz_951. "Forward...March!"Support the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

Recall Roster Assemble!!WhatMakesUsFire Family, on this episode of the podcast we have the hilarious, outspoken, no bullshit, the be real Mr. Adam Fiegle.A US Airforce Veteran, Fiegle is the type of man that has turned what has damn near broke him, into something beyond what is considered a saving grace. Creator of the #RecallRoster, he has created a group that is made to support military veterans when their time of need is immediate. He did this in response to fighting his own demons, and learning that just being who he is, was and is continuing to make a difference.Sit back relax and enjoy the amazing man that is Adam Fiegle. Support the show (https://www.whatmakesusfire.com)

WhatMakesUsFire Family, On this episode of the podcast we have Mr. LJ Wheat, better know as LJ_Cream_Of_Wheat on his social media platforms. LJ is a ARMY veteran, whos story is something to take a listen to. Growing up with depression, and falling into addiction, LJ has found a way to live his life to the fullest. He shows us that even with all the bad shit in life that is thrown at us, and the demons we can face, there can still be joy and laughter. He has found a way to be the comedian he loves to be, while still sharing his story, and continuing to make life as good as he can make it.WhatMakesUsFire Family, please welcome LJ, Cream_Of_Wheat.... Lets get CREAMY!!!Support the show (https://cash.app/$WhatMakesUsFire)

WhatMakesUsFre Family, In this episode of the podcast we have Mr. Ryan Willard, better known on TicTok as @immadiehappy304. Ryan is a former police officer and brother to a military veteran who suffered from PTSD.Ryan shares with us his story of being a part of the LEO family, what it meant to him, and how being in that life shaped him. Also sharing the story of being a brother to someone that battled with PTSD, and how it affected the entire family.Ryan has become a major voice in PTSD awareness through his social media presence. Making heartfelt, raw, and emotional videos showing what the true effects of having a mental health issue can have. He has created and coined the term "Not An Option", a motto that has become the battle cry for those that feel lost, but know giving up is NOT AN OPTION!WhatMakesUsFire Family please help me welcome to the show Mr. Ryan Willard. Support the show (https://cash.app/$WhatMakesUsFire)

WhatMakesUsFire Family,In this episode of the podcast we have Mr. and Mrs. Brian & Kendra Ward, parents to Eric Ward, the driving force behind their project.Brian & Kendra share with us their CRAZY love story, the family it created, the tragedy of losing their son Eric to suicide, and how they have found a way to have Eric's name continue to live on through their actions.*This episode is going to cover the topics of suicide and the devastating affects it has to those around the person involved. If you are in crisis please call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline @ 1-800-273-8255 for help.*WhatMakesUsFire Family, please help me welcome the AMAZING Mr. & Mrs. Ward, founders of 4WardProject.Support the show (https://cash.app/$WhatMakesUsFire)