Int his episode, I'm sharing something personal: the moment I realized I wasn't waiting on a miracle, a title, or someone to rescue me. I was waiting on me.

This is a story about climbing out of darkness- not in one big leap, but one breath at a time. Its about grief, trauma, resilience, and the slow, sacred process of reclaiming your power.

The episode touches on:

• facing your bullshit
• quiet strength of daily choices
• Save a Warrior
• Why you are both the Lock and the Key
• Tools and small practices that helped me return to myself- like mixed martial arts, journaling, and boundaries

If you've ever felt stuck- numb or unsure how to begin healing - this one is for you.

Episode Quote: "The version of you you're becoming is locked behind the parts of you you've been avoiding. You are both the lock and the key.” - Author Unknown

Need someone to talk to?

Text "HOPELINE" to 741741 - free, confidential, and available 24/7

What happens after? After the fire. After the trauma, after the heartbreak, the burnout, the silence?

In this first episode of First Due, host Amanda- former paramedic, firefighter, EMS leader and survivor- introduces the heart behind the podcast; a space to explore post-traumatic growth, identity, nervous system heling, breathwork, resilience, and remembering who we are beneath the armor.

With grit, vulnerability and a deep desire to serve, Amanda shares a glimpse into her own journey through loss, burnout, and rebirth. If you've ever felt like you were supposed to hold it all together while your soul was falling apart- this is for you.

This podcast is for anyone searching for a softer, stronger, truer version of themselves.

Mentioned in this episode is the HOPELINE. If you or anyone you know is in crisis or just needs someone to talk to- text the word HOPELINE to 741741. It's free, anonymous, and available 24/7.

Quote of the Episode:

"You are not what you have survived. You are who you become in the surviving."

- Author unknown