100: Wisdom, Wellness, and Breaking the Silence on Mental Health - Ret. Chief Jim Miguel

Jim Miguel is nothing short of a hero. Like so many in his field, he embodies humility, strength, and an unwavering dedication to serving others. His story offers a profound glimpse into the daily realities faced by firefighters and will inspire you to see their work—and your own life—in a new light.

As we celebrate the 100th episode of the Finding Strength Podcast, it’s only fitting that we honor this milestone with a guest as remarkable as Chief Miguel. A 40 year veteran of the fire service, now retired, he brings immense wisdom and a unique perspective to the conversation.

In this episode, Chief Miguel shares the transformative journey of implementing the 1st Watch Wellness program within his department. He recounts how this pioneering initiative reshaped the stigma surrounding mental health, saving lives and fostering a culture of support and resilience.

Chief Miguel details the measurable success of the 1st Watch program, explaining why mental health support is a critical resource for first responders everywhere. Whether you’re a first responder, a supporter, or someone seeking insights into mental health advocacy, this special episode will leave you informed, inspired, and equipped to make a difference.

Here’s to 100 episodes of Finding Strength—and to the incredible stories that continue to inspire hope and change.