Behind the Badge: Donn Bradley's Journey from First Responder to Therapist
Episode Overview
Donn Bradley's insights on emotional toll and therapy for first responders Anonymously shared experiences of trauma and recovery through surveys Exploration of childhood trauma and its impact on adulthood Reflections on relationship struggles and emotional healing Importance of seeking support and processing past experiences
I don't know. I don't know what I get out of that. But this is from the Ask Paul Anything survey, and this is filled out by a guy who calls himself, you can call me Ishmael, and he says, he asked, did you ever meet or work with Mitch Hedberg?
What happens when those who rush to save lives need saving themselves? In this episode, Paul Gilmartin sits down with Donn Bradley, a therapist and former first responder, to unpack the heavy emotional baggage carried by EMTs, police officers, and others in high-stress professions. Donn shares his own story, including the impact of losing his mother at a young age and how it shaped his path to becoming a therapist.
He opens up about the often-overlooked mental health struggles faced by those on the front lines of emergencies and violence. Listeners will find themselves drawn into heartfelt discussions on trauma, resilience, and the importance of emotional processing. The episode also features anonymous listener surveys that reveal raw, personal experiences with trauma and relationships, underscoring the need for support and healing.
Whether you're a first responder, know someone who is, or are just interested in mental health, this episode offers a compassionate look at the challenges and triumphs of those who witness humanity at its most vulnerable.