Rest Without the Risk: With Jon Vought

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Let’s talk about the impossible balancing act of being a firefighter, running a business, and still managing to take care of yourself. That’s exactly what today’s guest, Jon Vought, is doing. Jon is a 15-year veteran firefighter and the founder of Rescue One CBD, a company dedicated to helping first responders improve their sleep, manage stress, and reduce inflammation—all without risking their careers. After struggling with his own recovery from surgery and dealing with the ripple effects of poor sleep, Jon decided enough was enough. He went all-in on creating a product that would work for people like him, navigating long shifts, relentless stress, and the stigma around wellness in the fire service.

During our conversation, Jon gets real about what it’s like to juggle two demanding lives—firefighter by day, wellness entrepreneur by... well, also by day (and night, and whatever hours he can grab). He opens up about the struggles of maintaining boundaries, the trial-and-error process of developing a CBD product that’s truly safe for first responders, and the ridiculous hurdles he’s faced to make it happen. Seriously, did you know he had to hire scientists in Denver to ensure his product had zero THC? We’re talking microscopic precision here, people.

We also dive into the science behind CBD and why it’s a game-changer for recovery. Jon explains how CBD promotes REM sleep, reduces inflammation, and even supports mental health. And no, it’s not all buzzwords—he backs it up with research (and a personal stash of studies he calls his "CBD Bible"). He also tackles common misconceptions, like whether you can use CBD on-duty or how to handle concerns about drug tests. Spoiler: Jon’s CBD is the only firefighter-specific product that guarantees zero THC, so you don’t have to choose between better sleep and keeping your job.

But this episode isn’t just about the technical stuff. It’s about the heart of the fire service. Jon reminds us that taking care of yourself isn’t weak—it’s essential if you want to keep doing the job you love. Whether you’re running calls at 3 a.m. or trying to stay awake while your kids get off the bus, recovery matters. And self-care? It’s not all pedicures and spa days. Sometimes, it’s the hard decision to shut the laptop at 9 p.m. or say no to one more task.

If you’ve ever felt like “toughing it out” is the only way to survive the job, Jon’s story will inspire you to rethink that mindset. His message is clear: You can take care of yourself and be great at your job. In fact, you’ll be better for it.

DISCLAIMER:
After the Tones Drop has been presented and sponsored by Whole House Counseling. After the Tones Drop is for informational purposes only and does not constitute for medical or psychological advice. It is not a substitute for professional health care advice diagnosis or treatment. Please contact a local mental health professional in your area if you are in need of assistance. You can also visit our shows resources page for an abundance of helpful information.

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