WTCHH - Episode 1

Welcome to "When The Call Hits Home," where hosts Jennifer and Ashlee, both raised by first responders and seasoned mental health professionals, delve into the unique challenges faced by the children of first responders. In this inaugural episode, they share their personal backgrounds and professional insights, aiming to support and build a community for those who grew up in similar environments. From discussing the impact of civil unrest on law enforcement families to exploring strategies for resilience and mental health, Jennifer and Ashlee set the stage for a series dedicated to those who find their home life intertwined with the demands of first-response duties. Join them as they extend a helping hand and expert guidance to first responders and their families, providing tools and conversations that resonate with their listeners’ experiences.

**1. Introduction to the Podcast:**
   - Introduction of hosts Ashlee and Jennifer.
   - Overview of the podcast's theme: supporting children of first responders.
**2. Host Backgrounds:**
   - Ashlee's educational background and experience as a child of a first responder.
   - Jennifer's professional background in mental health and connection to first responders through family and community service.
**3. Origin Story of the Podcast:**
   - How Ashlee and Jennifer met at a seminar on mental health for first responders.
   - Discussion of their shared experiences and the realization of a common background.
**4. Purpose and Goals of the Podcast:**
   - To create a supportive community for children of first responders.
   - To offer mental health insights and practical advice to families of first responders.
**5. Ashlee’s Research Focus:**
   - Explanation of Ashlee’s dissertation topic on the impact of civil unrest on law enforcement officers and their families.
   - Insights into the personal motivation behind her research due to her father’s career.
**6. Personal Anecdotes:**
   - Shared experiences of discipline and upbringing as children of first responders.
   - Realizations of having a unique upbringing compared to others not in first responder families.
**7. Vision for the Podcast Community:**
   - Building a community for conversations about life as a child of a first responder.
   - Engaging with different types of first responders' families to broaden the discussion.
**8. Podcast Format and Expectations:**
   - Introduction to the structure and objectives of the podcast.
   - Planned inclusion of guest speakers and community interaction.
   - Utilization of the podcast platform for easy access and integration into daily lives of listeners.
**9. Tools and Support Strategies:**
   - Presentation of actionable advice and strategies for dealing with challenges specific to first responder families.
   - Discussion of topics such as resilience, coping mechanisms, and family dynamics.
**10. Engagement and Feedback:**
   - Encouragement for listener participation and feedback.
   - Plans to adapt the podcast based on community needs and responses.