The Vagus Nerve and First Responder Wellness

Hosts:

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

• Jennifer Woosley Saylor, LPCC – Child of a Cop

Special Guest:

• Jamilyn DeSanti, Licensed Social Worker

In this episode, Jennifer and Ashlee are joined by special guest and long-time friend, Jamilyn, a social worker who specializes in working with children and adolescents. The conversation centers on the critical connection between our minds and bodies—specifically, the often-overlooked role of the vagus nerve in managing stress responses, especially for first responders and their families.

Key Topics:

 

• What is the Vagus Nerve—and Why Should You Care? Jamie Lynn breaks down how this “superhighway” nerve links your brain to almost every organ, controlling your heart rate, digestion, and more. Learn why your body feels stress the way it does—plus, how your early experiences shape this response.
• Recognizing YOUR Stress Signals Gain practical tips on building awareness of your unique stress reactions—because you can’t change what you don’t notice! (Spoiler: This is the same stuff we’re teaching your kids, too.)
• Hacks to “Reset” When Stress Hits Are deep breaths really all that? How about cold water, sour candy, singing out loud, laughter… even hot sauce?! The team shares tried-and-true ways you can quickly signal safety to your body in those high-stress moments.
• For Families: Helping Kids Tune In Parents, this episode has something for you! Jamie Lynn offers up playful and practical ways to help your kids notice their own body’s cues—and why, as parents, we have to check in with ourselves before we try to support our kids.
• Can You Sleep? If stress is tanking your sleep, you’re not alone. Jennifer and Ashlee touch on how vagal regulation and body-based strategies could help you (and your household!) get the rest you need. (Yep, we hear you—a full sleep episode is coming soon.)

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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