In this episode of Kitchen Table Talk, Michael Long and Nick Robben sit down for a candid conversation about what it really means to lead in the fire service—long before the promotion, long before the badge, and long before you’re officially “in charge.”

The guys reflect on their early episodes, the surprising experience of listening back to their own stories, and how much growth comes from simply talking openly about mental health. They dive into the importance of informal leadership, the responsibility every firefighter carries, and how mental health readiness is just as essential as physical training.

Michael and Nick also explore how communication, vulnerability, and checking in after difficult calls can change an entire crew’s culture—for the better. From navigating home life to supporting each other in the station, this episode highlights how breaking the stigma starts one honest conversation at a time.

Pull up a chair and join us at the table. These are the conversations that strengthen crews, save careers, and remind every first responder that it’s okay to not be okay.

In this powerful second episode of Kitchen Table Talk, hosts Michael Long and Nick Robben sit down with two exceptional clinicians — Dena DiStefano, LCSW, C-DBT, CCTP, founder of Balanced Therapy & Wellness, and Lindsay Simons, LCSW, founder of The Empowerment Spot. Together, they break down the unique mental health challenges that first responders and their families face, from relationship strain and communication barriers to the emotional weight of constant exposure to high-stress environments.

Dena shares insight from her 20+ years working with adults, couples, and many first responder families, highlighting the ripple effects the job has on partners and home life. Lindsay brings her wilderness-therapy background and explains Brainspotting, a powerful trauma-processing method that helps clients safely access and heal emotional wounds stored in the body.

This conversation dives into family dynamics, couples counseling approaches, and how first responders can build healthier, more resilient relationships—both at work and at home. It’s real, honest, and packed with tools for anyone looking to strengthen connection in the face of a demanding career.

www.breakthestigmainc.com

Guest:

Lindsay Simons, MSW, LCSW, Founder of the empowerment spot

http://www.theempowermentspottherapy.com/

Dena DiStefano, LCSW, C-DBT, CCTP, founder of Balanced Therapy & Wellness

http://www.denadistefano.com/