In Episode 85 of the First Responder Wellness Podcast, Chief Deputy Fire Marshal Don Brucker shares his 39-year journey through the fire service—and the emotional weight that comes with it. From handling fatal fire scenes to the heartbreaking loss of his beloved dogs, Don opens up about the quiet, often ignored toll of first responder work. But this episode isn't about despair—it's about hope, growth, and leading by example.
He speaks candidly about his own breakdown, the pivotal moment a roll of paper towels triggered a complete emotional collapse, and the internal shift that followed. Don also describes how a mindfulness class became the catalyst for transformation and how therapy—once unthinkable for him—became a tool for healing.
Don’s insights on leadership, culture change, and how to spark difficult conversations within departments offer tangible takeaways for chiefs, officers, and every first responder listening.
Connect with Don: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donald-a-brucker-5817157/
Take the quiz to find your perfect trainer and get 14 days of free training here: https://go.trainwell.net/FirstResponderWellness
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FIRST RESPONDER WELLNESS PODCAST
Order the PTSD911 Film and Educational Toolkit here and Save 20% through the month of June: https://ptsd911movie.com/toolkit/ Web site: https://ptsd911movie.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ptsd911movie/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ptsd911movie/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClQ8jxjxYqHgFQixBK4Bl0Q
Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/first-responder-wellness-podcast/id1535675703
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2wW72dLZOKkO1QYUPzL2ih
Purchase the PTSD911 film for your public safety agency or organization: https://ptsd911movie.com/toolkit/
The First Responder Wellness Podcast is a production of ConjoStudios, LLC
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