#474 AFOA 2026 Conference Live: Resilience After Trauma with Matt Bourner

 Welcome to Episode 2 of our special mini-series recorded at the Airport Fire Officers Association (AFOA) Conference 2026, where we are sharing some of the most powerful presentations and conversations from across the aviation fire and rescue sector. In this episode, I sit down with Matt Bourner from Manchester Airport Fire Service to hear an extraordinary story of resilience after trauma. Following a devastating motorcycle collision in 2019, Matt lost part of his leg and was initially told it could take years before he walked again. Through determination, discipline and an unwavering commitment to his recovery, he returned to work within months and resumed full operational firefighting duties just one year later. This conversation explores the physical and psychological challenges of rebuilding after life changing injury, the role of support from family and colleagues, and the mindset required to overcome adversity. Matt’s story is a powerful reminder that resilience is not about avoiding hardship, but about refusing to let it define what comes next. Learn about AFOA HEREAccess all episodes, documents, GIVEAWAYS & debriefs HEREPodcast Apparel, Hoodies, Flags, Mugs HERE Please check out our Partners supporting this episode areWilliam Wood Watches - Discount code FFPODCAST gives the user 10% off full range on websiteFIRST TACTICAL- tactical gear for elite operatorsGORE-TEX Professional ClothingMSA The Safety CompanyJAFCOIDEXFIRE & EVACUATION SERVICE LTD Send us Fan MailSupport the show***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.***Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew