Hosts:

Dr. Ashlee Gethner, LCSW – Child of a Police Officer

Jennifer Woosley Saylor, LPCC S – Child of a Police Officer

Guest:

Mike Mudd - USAF Veteran, Retired Paramedic Captain, & Realtor®

In this powerful and candid episode, Ashlee and Jennifer are joined by Mike Mudd, a Louisville-based realtor, former paramedic, and USAF veteran. Mike reveals his journey through 25 years in EMS, the emotional toll of responding to critical incidents, and the struggles first responders face in accessing mental health support. With raw honesty, he shares personal stories of trauma, resilience, and the importance of recognizing and caring for the people behind the uniform.

Key Discussion Points:

Mike’s Career Journey - Started as a dispatcher; worked up to EMT and then paramedic and Captain in Louisville EMS service.Transitioned to real estate after reaching burnout in EMS.

Childhood Influences - Grew up in a split family with a police officer stepfather. Discussed Mike's childhood fascination with sirens, lights, and law enforcement.

Reality of EMS Work - Describing the unpredictability and independence required in EMS. Mike shares stories of traumatic calls, the emotional aftermath, and the lack of support systems during his tenure. Highlighting the emotional toll, including PTSD and worst-case scenario thinking.

Mental Health & Support - Mike discusses the lack of formal debriefing or mental health resources for EMS crews during his career. Makes a strong case for mandatory mental health checkups for first responders following major incidents and talks openly about the effects of trauma on personal relationships and daily life.

Leadership & Recognition - Reflection on management challenges and the importance of leadership that sees and supports its people. The group advocates for more recognition and appreciation for EMS, dispatchers, and corrections staff. Mike suggests that small gestures of affirmation (even a $2 ribbon) can drive morale and healing.

Family & Grief - Mike shares how his family's background in law enforcement shaped his worldview and relationships, with talks about coping with the loss of loved ones and choosing to live joyfully as a tribute to those lost.

Humor & Coping Mechanisms - Mike explains how humor, pranks, and camaraderie help crews decompress from the harsh reality of first responder work. He emphasizes the importance of healthy ways to release stress, sometimes misunderstood by the outside world.

Want to get in touch with Mike?

🔗 Website: https://www.mikemuddrealtor.com/

🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikemuddrealtor

🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mike.mudd.188?mibextid=wwXIfr

Email: mike@semonin.com

If this episode resonated with you or if you have stories to share about living with a first responder, reach out to Ashlee and Jennifer on their social media platforms!

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