From Firefighter to Advocate: Scott Gieselhardt's Journey Through PTSD, Addiction, and Hope

Hometown Hero Outdoors

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Discover the compelling journey of Scott Gieselhardt, a retired firefighter who turned his struggle with PTSD and addiction into a powerful mission to aid mental health awareness among first responders. Scott's 24-year tenure with the Frazee Fire Department in Minnesota exposed him to the emotional complexities and unique pressures faced by first responders, especially in tight-knit communities where emergencies often hit close to home. He joins us on the Hometown Hero Outdoors Podcast to share his transformative story, offering hope and invaluable insights into recognizing and confronting mental health challenges.
Scott's experiences underline the critical role of peer support and innovative therapies like EMDR in recovery, illustrating the profound impact of having a compassionate network. Through heartfelt personal anecdotes, he reveals the emotional toll of invincibility and vulnerability that can lead to substance addiction and mental health struggles. By recounting a life-altering moment of reaching out for help, Scott showcases how human connection can change lives, emphasizing the importance of being present for others in similar crises.
We also explore Scott's influential outreach program "Seeing in Color," which tackles mental health issues among high school students through storytelling and visual transformation. Additionally, Scott shares insights from his work at the First Responder Bridge Retreat, highlighting the vital support offered to first responders and their families. As he continues his advocacy, Scott’s message of resilience and hope serves as a beacon for those navigating their paths to recovery, demonstrating the power of shared experiences in healing and community well-being.
www.seeingincoloragain.com
Produced by Phil Ewert Productions
Theme Music: Hero's Journey
Joel Loopez Tunepocket.com
Licensed by: Phil Ewert Productions
hometownherooutdoors.org

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1. Firefighter's Mental Health and Redemption (00:00:00)

2. Overcoming Trauma and Addiction (00:08:09)

3. Peer Support Networks and EMDR Therapy (00:18:28)

4. Sharing PTSD Recovery and Hope (00:26:06)

5. Mental Health Program Outreach and Experience (00:30:03)

6. First Responder Bridge Retreat Experiences (00:33:55)

7. Relationships, Communication, and Support (00:38:24)

8. Preventing Suicide Through Personal Stories (00:43:28)

9. Journey of Healing and Hope (00:50:05)