In this episode, Kyle and Kerry discuss the critical issue of mental health in the fire service with 2025 essay contest winner Marc Wysocki. They explore the challenges firefighters face, the importance of maintaining mental wellness, and the need for a cultural shift in how mental health is perceived and addressed within the industry. Mark shares his personal experiences and insights from his essay, emphasizing the need for proactive measures and support systems to help first responders cope with the unique stresses of their profession.

Takeaways

Mental health challenges in the fire service are often overlooked.

The identity of firefighters can lead to emotional suppression.

Proactive mental health measures should be part of operational readiness.

Cumulative stress can lead to severe mental health issues.

Peer support is crucial but often insufficient without professional help.

The culture of emotional regulation can hinder appropriate emotional responses.

Younger generations are more open to discussing mental health.

Training should include soft skills for better leadership and support.

Everyone deserves mental health support, regardless of their experiences.

The fire service must evolve to address the changing nature of emergency response.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mental Health in Fire Service

02:09 Mark Wysocki's Background and Insights

05:59 The Importance of Mental Health Awareness

11:57 Identity Fusion and Its Impacts

17:56 Unique Vulnerabilities in Emergency Services

24:02 Cumulative Stress and Seeking Help

29:52 Future Directions for Mental Health in Fire Service

Keywords

mental health, fire service, leadership, identity, emergency response, wellness, peer support, resilience, community service, mental health awareness

In this fun, off-the-cuff episode of the HC Leadership Podcast, Kyle and Kerry dive into a rapid-fire “Would You Rather” session with a leadership twist. No prep, no scripts — just honest reactions, personal stories, and real-time reflection.

From choosing between being trusted or respected, to navigating decisive vs. democratic leadership, to the classic debate of coffee vs. hobbies, the conversation goes everywhere from lighthearted laughs to deep insights about self-awareness, maturity, mentorship, blind spots, and the realities of leading at home and at work.

This episode is a perfect blend of humor, vulnerability, and wisdom—showing how even simple questions can spark meaningful conversations about leadership, culture, and growth.

Tune in, reflect on your own answers, and join the conversation on our socials!