December 3, 2024

Nick Smith – Behind the Badge: The Humanity of First Responders

Episode #4

“Death gets a vote, unfortunately, and you can’t save everybody.”

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Nick Smith – Behind the Badge: The Humanity of First Responders

Episode 4

Show Summary

Guest Information

Nick Smith

Guest - First Responder

Links From the Episode

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Photos from the Show

Chapter Markers

️ Introduction and Background (00:00 – 08:02)

Podcast sponsored by Bound Hat Company
Nick Smith introduced as deputy chief at Monarch Fire Protection District
Nick grew up in Florissant, St. Louis
Father was a firefighter, mother worked in education
Initially wanted to pursue a career in marketing
9/11 event prompted career change to firefighting
Started EMT school and fell in love with it

Career in Firefighting (08:02 – 15:47)

Nick started career at age 23
Worked at several departments, both rural and urban
70% of fire department work is EMS-related
Competitive field with high standards
Job is humbling and constantly challenging
Importance of teamwork and common mission

Mental and Emotional Challenges (15:47 – 27:28)

Difficulty in preparing for traumatic experiences
Learning to handle shock early in career
Importance of kitchen table discussions for decompression
Critical incident stress debriefing for severe cases
Need to wear a “mask” to handle difficult situations
Challenge of taking off the mask when returning home
Personal experience of losing twins due to complications

‍ Day-to-Day Experiences (27:28 – 37:30)

Typical 48-hour shift with 15-20 EMS calls and 5-6 fire-related calls
Variety of situations from chronically ill patients to trauma cases
Constant preparation and training for unexpected events
Importance of quick decision-making and problem-solving

Specific Call Example (37:30 – 48:42)

Detailed account of a motor vehicle collision response
Extrication of severely injured young woman
Emotional connection formed during rescue efforts
Follow-up with survivor and dealing with grief

Career Advice and Burnout Prevention (48:42 – 57:48)

Excitement of first experiences in early career
Importance of continuous learning and professional development
Physical fitness crucial for job performance and longevity
Sleep and rest essential for overall health
Resources available for mental health support

Public Understanding and Support (57:48 – 01:06:24)

Importance of empathy from the public
Firefighters are human beings dealing with life and death daily
Community involvement and support appreciated
Recommendation to support organizations like Backstoppers, Responder Rescue, Code Three Response

Help Is Available

If you’re facing mental health struggles, emotional distress, alcohol or drug use concerns, or just need someone to talk to, call or text 988.

Caring counselors are there for you. You are not alone.

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