In this episode of 2nd Alarm Project Radio, we tackle one of the most overlooked threats to first responder wellness: sleep deprivation and shift work. Host Mike Bellamy is joined by Dr. Kellie O'Dare and Dr. Joel Billings, a former firefighter and sleep scientist, to break down how irregular sleep patterns affect everything from decision-making to long-term mental health.

Dr. Billings brings a unique blend of personal and professional experience to the conversation—starting as a volunteer firefighter and now serving as a sleep researcher and professor at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. The team dives deep into the science behind sleep cycles, how trauma is processed during REM sleep, and the surprising link between chronic sleep deprivation and performance impairments equivalent to intoxication.

We also explore emerging research on firefighter shift schedules, family dynamics, and department-level interventions to support healthy sleep habits. From adjusting shift start times to station design and strategic napping, this episode offers practical takeaways for agencies looking to prioritize long-term wellness.

Whether you're a firefighter, EMS professional, clinician, or family member, this conversation highlights the critical role of sleep in resilience, safety, and career longevity.

Let us know what you think about the show by leaving a comment at https://2ndalarmproject.org/contact/

Show Notes

Hosts:
Mike Bellamy – mbellamy2ap@gmail.com
Dr. Kellie O'Dare – kellie.odare@ucf.edu | https://2ndalarmproject.org

Guest:
Dr. Joel Billings – Associate Professor, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Email: joel.billings@erau.edu

In this exciting episode of 2nd Alarm Project Radio, we break down a game-changing partnership between UCF RESTORES and the 2nd Alarm Project. Host Mike Bellamy is joined by two pioneers in first responder mental health—Dr. Deborah Beidel, Executive Director of UCF RESTORES, and Dr. Kellie O’Dare, Deputy Director, UCF RESTORES & founder of the 2nd Alarm Project—to discuss what this collaboration means for the future of behavioral health support.

This merger is a major step toward expanding access to evidence-based treatments for first responders, with a strong focus on peer support, trauma-informed care, and clinician training. We also dive into brand-new survey data from nearly 50,000 Florida first responders, revealing alarming trends in sleep deprivation, anxiety, burnout, and substance use. Our guests discuss how this data will drive innovative solutions, from better training for mental health professionals to creating support systems for retirees and first responder families.

The episode also explores the importance of culturally competent care, the role of evidence-based treatment, and the need to reduce the stigma around mental health and suicide prevention in the first responder community. Dr. Beidel and Dr. O’Dare share their vision for the future, emphasizing that mental wellness is a shared responsibility—from individuals to organizations and beyond.

Tune in to hear how these two powerhouse organizations are coming together to transform first responder mental health care.

Let us know what you think about the show by leaving a comment at https://2ndalarmproject.org/contact/

Show Notes

Hosts: Mike Bellamy - mbellamy2ap@gmail.com

Guests:
Dr. Deborah Beidel, Executive Director, UCF RESTORES - deborah.beidel@ucf.edu https://ucfrestores.com/

Dr. Kellie O’Dare, Deputy Director, UCF RESTORES/ Founder, 2nd Alarm Project - kellie.odare@ucf.edu

https://2ndalarmproject.org/

In this compelling episode of 2nd Alarm Project Radio, we dive into the often-overlooked topic of moral injury with Wendy Norris, a firefighter, certified grief educator, and founder of the Texas Line of Duty Task Force. Wendy shares her journey in the fire service, spanning over 30 years, and how a devastating career-ending injury reshaped her purpose.

Wendy explains moral injury—a spiritual and emotional wound that arises when personal values or beliefs are violated—and its profound impact on first responders. She discusses how it differs from post-traumatic stress and why addressing the spiritual dimension of wellness is essential for holistic mental health.

Drawing from her personal experiences, including the tragic loss of her husband John Norris in the line of duty, Wendy highlights the ripple effects of grief and loss within the fire service community. She offers actionable insights for leaders and organizations, emphasizing the importance of proactive health and wellness programs that include mental, physical, and spiritual care.

Tune in to learn how we can better care for those who dedicate their lives to serving others.

Let us know what you think about the show by leaving a comment at https://2ndalarmproject.org/contact/

***Show Notes***

Hosts: Mike Bellamy - mbellamy2ap@gmail.com

Guest: Wendy Norris, CEO/President Texas LODD Task Force - wendy@texasloddtaskforce.com