PODCAST · health
Sit Around the Fire
by Ashlea Dillard
Welcome to Sit Around the Fire — the space where stories ignite transformation. Hosted by a former first responder turned licensed professional counselor and certified hypnotherapist, this podcast blends real-life experiences, powerful teachings, and practical tools for mental and physical health. Each episode invites you to slow down, reflect, and find your spark again. Together, we explore mindfulness, stress management, trauma recovery, and PTSD healing — all through the lens of someone who’s lived it. You’ll hear raw conversations with first responders, veterans, and mental health experts as well as other incredible human beings with amazing stories and missions who share their wisdom on how to move from burnout to balance, from survival mode to thriving. If you’re ready to break free from old patterns and beliefs, reclaim your peace, and live your most abundant, limitless life, this is your commun
Episodes
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#061 Rest Is Not A Reward
Have you ever finally had a chance to rest, only to realize you could not actually relax? Your body may be sitting still, but your mind is making lists, scanning for what needs to be done, and reminding you of all the ways you could be more productive. You are resting, but you are not at rest. In...
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#060 Resilience Can Be Learned: The 4-Part FUEL Model with Dr. Rose Aghdami
What if resilience is not about being tougher, pushing harder, or pretending that difficult things do not affect you? What if resilience is actually a collection of skills that can be learned, practiced, and strengthened? In this episode of Sit Around the Fire, Ashlea sits down with Dr. Rose...
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#059 Don’t Wait Until You’re Healed to Be in a Relationship
So many people believe they need to be fully healed before they can be in a relationship. But what if that belief is actually keeping us isolated? In this episode of Sit Around the Fire, Ashlea Dillard explores why relationships are not just something we enter after healing — they are often one…
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#058 Start With Five Minutes: A Real Talk on Meditation with Mark Blacknell
What does it actually take to go from survival mode to a settled nervous system? In this episode, I sit down with Mark Blacknell — who grew up navigating a tough childhood in Philadelphia, served in the Marines, and found his way to meditation and a life built around balance. This conversation is...
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#057 The Perfectionist and the People Pleaser
Once upon a time, there was a girl named Ashlea. She was good at everything, she was the one who kept everyone okay, and from the outside she looked like she had it all figured out. She was also exhausted all the time and had no idea who she actually was. In this solo episode, I'm telling that...
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#056: Breaking the Silence: Trauma and Healing in First Responders — with Keven McNeill
Most of us think the clock on trauma starts the first day on the job. Keven McNeill is here to tell you it started a long time before that. In this episode, Keven shares his journey through law enforcement, a defining 2016 incident, and the depression and PTSD that followed — and the long road...
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#055 The Most Important Investment You'll Ever Make
We pour money, time, and energy into everything outside of ourselves — our kids, our businesses, our homes, the people who depend on us — and then we wonder why we feel so depleted. In this episode, Ashlea makes the case that investing in yourself isn't the luxury you get to once everything else…
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#054 From Trauma to Triumph: Packy Dempsey Shares His Journey Through the Fire
This episode hits hard. Packy Dempsey, a retired law enforcement officer, takes us deep into the moment that changed everything — and how he turned that crucible into a mission of healing, not just for himself, but for first responders and military alike. We don't skip past the hard parts. Packy...
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#053 Be the Queen You Already Are
Most women are waiting for permission to fully step into their power — but what if confidence isn't something you build? What if it's already inside you, ready to be claimed? In this special release episode of Sit Around the Fire, licensed professional counselor and clinical hypnotherapist Ashlea...
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#052 The Power of Mindfulness in Trauma Recovery: Adrianne Lind's Journey
In this insightful conversation, Adrianne Lind shares her journey through trauma, healing, and the transformative power of mindfulness and yoga. Discover practical tools for managing PTSD, grief, and stress, and learn how to cultivate a resilient nervous system for a healthier, more balanced…
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#051 The Real Reason Willpower Isn't Working
Have you ever known exactly what you should do — and still found yourself repeating the same patterns anyway? That frustration isn't a character flaw. It's neuroscience. In this episode, Ashlea Dillard breaks down why the subconscious mind holds onto emotional patterns — even painful ones — and…
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#050 Why Constant Fixing Keeps You Trapped—Shift from Doing to Being ft. Mitch Webb
Are you exhausted from trying to fix yourself? More supplements, better routines, stricter discipline—and still your body feels like it's working against you. In this episode, I sit down with Mitch Webb to talk about something most healing conversations miss: the idea that your body isn't...
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#049 The Hidden History of Hypnosis They Don't Teach You
What if everything you believe about yourself... isn't actually you? If you've ever felt stuck in the same patterns, overwhelmed by your own thoughts, or like healing is always just out of reach — this episode will change how you see your mind. In this powerful solo episode of Sit Around the…
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#048 From Combat to Civilian: Mental Health After the Military | Anthony Dyer
What happens when the mission ends — but the war inside doesn't? In this episode, Ashlea Dillard sits down with Anthony Dyer, a former Air Force combat missions aviator, to explore one of the most underrepresented conversations in military mental health: what it truly costs to serve, and what it...
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#047 Rewire Your Brain with Words: The Power of Self-Talk
The most important conversation you'll ever have is the one happening in your own mind. And chances are, you're not paying attention to it. In this solo episode, Ashlea Dillard breaks down how the language you use every day — the phrases you repeat on autopilot, the words you say under your…
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#046 He Faced the Unsurvivable — Here's What He Found on the Other Side Ty Gipson
What does it take to survive the unsurvivable — and come out the other side with purpose? In this episode of Sit Around the Fire, host Ashlea Dillard sits down with Ty Gipson — motivational speaker, organ transplant recipient, and living proof that adversity doesn't get the last word. Ty was...
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#045 Why You’re Tired All the Time (It’s Not Just Physical): Emotional Exhaustion & Burnout
Do you feel constantly tired—even when you’re getting enough sleep, eating well, and doing “all the right things”? You’re not alone. And the truth is… your exhaustion might not be physical. In this solo episode of Sit Around the Fire, therapist and hypnotherapist Ashlea Dillard explores the…
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#044 The Truth About Intimacy: Self-worth, Trauma, and Communication with Pauline Ryeland
What if the biggest barrier to intimacy in your relationship isn’t your partner—but your relationship with yourself? In this powerful episode of Sit Around the Fire, host Ashlea Dillard sits down with Pauline Ryeland to explore the deeper psychology of relationships, intimacy, and connection....
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#043: The Hidden Cost of Always Being the Strong One: Emotional Exhaustion, Vulnerability & Healing
Are you the one everyone relies on… but secretly feel exhausted, disconnected, or overwhelmed? In this solo episode of Sit Around the Fire, therapist and hypnotherapist Ashlea Dillard explores the hidden cost of always being the strong one—and why this role, while admirable, can lead to emotional...
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#042 First Responder Families: How to Heal, Communicate, and Thrive Under Pressure with TJ & Sarah
In this powerful episode of Sit Around the Fire, host Ashlea Dillard sits down with Sarah Joy Prieur and TJ to explore the real-life challenges of first responder families—and what it actually takes to move from survival mode into true, sustainable thriving. Together, they unpack the mental…
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#041 Suicide Prevention Through Humor: Frank King on Depression, Vulnerability & Saving Lives
Suicide prevention starts with a conversation. In this powerful episode, Frank King—comedian and suicide prevention speaker—shares his deeply personal journey through depression, chronic suicidal ideation, and the unexpected role humor has played in his mental health advocacy. Through…
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#040 Police Reform, Mental Health, and Accountability | A Conversation with Jeff Wenninger
What does the future of law enforcement look like? And how do we build trust, accountability, and mental health support within policing? In this episode of Sit Around the Fire, I sit down with Jeff Wenninger, who shares insights from his 33-year career in law enforcement and his perspective on…
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#039 Jess Flores: When the Badge Becomes Your Identity
In this episode, Ashlea Dillard speaks with Jess Flores, a former law enforcement officer, about her journey of identity loss after leaving the police force. They discuss the challenges of navigating relationships, the importance of communication, and the need for self-awareness and personal...
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#038 How to Get the Most Out of Therapy: 5 Powerful Keys to Real Change
In this episode, Ashlea Dillard dives into five powerful strategies to help you get the most out of therapy and accelerate your personal growth. If you're committed to improving your mental health, emotional well-being, and self-awareness, this conversation will reshape how you approach the...
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#037: Brian Sachetta: Chronic Stress vs Acute Stress: Which One's Killing You?
In this episode of Sit Around the Fire, Ashlea Dillard sits down with Brian Sachetta to discuss mental health, focusing on anxiety and depression. Brian shares his personal journey with anxiety, the importance of understanding the root causes, and the body's physiological responses to stress.…
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#036 Parts Work: Aspects of Our Mind That Get Into Conflict
In this episode, Ashlea Dillard delves into the concept of parts work, a therapeutic approach that explores the various aspects of our minds, akin to the characters in the movie 'Inside Out.' She explains how different parts of ourselves, such as the inner critic, inner child, and inner adult…
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#035 Chris Tiller: The Fire Service Is Changing: Generations, Call Volume, and the Cost
The conversation with Chris Tiller delves into the generational gap in the fire service and the impact of technology on communication and community within the service. It explores recruitment challenges, leadership's role in mental health support, and the evolving identity and community dynamics…
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#034: The Power of Emotions: Understanding and Managing Your Feelings
The conversation delves into the exploration of emotions and their impact on behavior and well-being. It discusses the two methods of dealing with emotions, the importance of stepping out of emotions and processing them, practical steps for dealing with emotions, and the concept of letting…
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#033 Breaking Free: Your Thoughts Become Your Reality
In this episode, Ashlea Dillard explores the profound impact of our thoughts on our physical and emotional well-being. She emphasizes the importance of awareness in recognizing negative self-talk and its effects on the subconscious mind. Dillard discusses the consequences of chronic stress and…
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#032 Robert Tornabene: Breaking the Silence: Mental Health in Law Enforcement
In this conversation, Ashlea Dillard interviews Robert Tornabene, a retired police officer from Chicago, who shares his insights on mental health, leadership, and the challenges faced by law enforcement officers. Robert emphasizes the importance of self-care, the stigma surrounding mental health…
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#031 Grief & Loss from My Heart
In this heartfelt conversation, Ashlea Dillard shares her personal journey through grief and loss, emphasizing the importance of accepting and living through these emotions rather than resisting them. She discusses the illusion of returning to a 'normal' state after loss, the unconditional nature...
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#030 Mr. Whiskey: From Navy Vet to Podcast Pioneer
This conversation delves into the challenges faced by first responders and military personnel, particularly focusing on mental health issues, identity crises, and the importance of community and support. The discussion highlights the impact of societal pressures, the need for mentorship, and the...
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#029 The Weight of Joy: Navigating Holiday Emotions
Summary In this heartfelt holiday episode, Ashlea Dillard explores the complexities of joy and emotions during the holiday season. She emphasizes the weight of joy, the importance of receiving, and the power of self-acceptance. Ashlea encourages listeners to embrace their feelings, whether they…
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#028 Monica Tanner: Stop Going To Bed Angry? Maybe Sleep On It
Send us a text What if the problem isn’t your partner, but the pattern you’re both trapped in? Today we unpack the hidden scripts that drive your fights—attachment styles, nervous system triggers, and the “I’ll just fix it” reflex that keeps real repair out of reach—and share the small…
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#027 Travis McGaha: Building Resilient First Responders Through Whole-Person Wellness
Send us a text The hardest part isn’t the fire. It’s carrying the weight after the sirens fade. We sit down with Travis McGaha—deputy fire marshal, founder of the North Carolina Firefighter Cancer Wellness Alliance, and host of the All Clear Podcast—to unpack a practical, whole-person path to...
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#026 William Person: Olympic Team USA Bobsled Athlete Healing CTE
Send us a text What if the fog, forgetfulness, and mood storms aren’t a failing mind—but an injured one that’s never been treated? We sit down with former Team USA bobsledder William Pearson to trace the slow, frightening slide into CTE symptoms—and the moment oxygen, pressure, and persistence...
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#025 CELEBRATE! One Year Around The Fire...
Send us a text The crackle you hear isn’t just the intro—it’s a year of voices catching flame. We’re celebrating twelve months of honest conversations with flight nurses, paramedics, firefighters, spouses, mental health pros, and advocates who turned raw experience into practical wisdom. This...
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#023 Margaux Aime: From Grief To Grit: A Producer Rebuilds Purpose Through Storytelling
Send us a text A simple mantra drives this conversation and the life behind it: keep it moving. Margot, the founder of True Self Films, shares how losing her grandmother, mother, and husband in three consecutive years forced a complete reset. Stoicism stopped working. Therapy, chosen…
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#023: The 5 Non-Negotiables
Send us a text Ever feel like you’re doing everything and still not moving forward? We break down the five non-negotiables that quietly determine whether life feels scattered or deeply aligned: spirituality, mental and emotional health, physical health, career and finances, and relationships....
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#022: Jennifer Kaufman: Supporting Autism on the Front Lines: Tools, Tactics, and Trust for First Responders and Families
Send us a text Sirens, bright lights, crowded scenes—now imagine all of that with a nervous system tuned to notice every sound and sensation at full volume. We sit down with school principal and trainer Jennifer Kaufman to unpack how autism can look like “defiance” or “intoxication” in the...
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#021 Chef Calvin: From Texas BBQ to Plant-Powered: A Chef’s Journey to Fuel First Responders
Send us a text What if the best meal of the day also became the calmest moment of your week? We sit down with Chef Calvin—Texas-born, French-trained, and the mind behind R&D at Burger King and Arby’s—to talk about fueling first responders with fast, affordable, wildly flavorful meals that…
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#020 You Don't Need to Wait Until You're Broken to Seek Help
Send us a text Have you ever caught yourself wondering if your problems are "big enough" to justify therapy? Or perhaps you've thought, "Other people have it worse" or "I just need to tough it out." You're not alone. Many of us operate with an invisible scale of suffering, waiting until we hit…
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#019 Steve Orr: Warning Lights on the Dashboard: When Your Job Is Killing You
Send us a text "The greatest job in the world is actually destroying me." These powerful words capture the hidden struggle many first responders face behind their heroic image. In this raw, vulnerable conversation, former firefighter/paramedic Steve Orr bravely shares his 22-year journey through...
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#018 Stop Saying "You" and Start Saving Your Relationship
Send us a text What happens when a volcano comes home after shift? That's how one firefighter's spouse described living with a first responder - unpredictable eruptions following periods of concerning quiet. Communication becomes the lifeline that either saves or sinks these relationships.…
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#017 What's Running Your Life? Hint: It's Not Your Conscious Thoughts
Send us a text Have you ever wondered why you keep repeating the same patterns despite your best efforts to change? The answer lies deep within your mind's operating system – and it's more powerful than you might realize. Dive into the fascinating architecture of your mind as we explore the...
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#016 Egan de los Cobos: The Body Remembers, The Soul Responds: A Firefighter’s Journey Through PTSD, Transformation, & Healing
Send us a text A devastating accident forever changed firefighter paramedic Egan De Los Cobos' life when a car plowed through a coffee shop patio where he sat with his three-year-old son. Though they survived physically, the psychological trauma triggered a cascade of mysterious health problems…
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#015 Beyond the Critical Factor: Can Ketamine Help You Access Hidden Healing?
Send us a text Have you ever felt stuck despite trying "all the right things"? Talk therapy, medication, pushing through—and yet those same patterns keep emerging, those same wounds keep reopening. You're not alone, especially if you're a first responder. Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)...
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#014: Melissa Alvarez: Behind the Flame: A Firefighter's Wife Speaks
Send us a text What happens when the fire trucks leave the station and first responders head home? For the families left behind, a unique journey unfolds – one filled with both challenges and profound strength. Melissa opens her heart about life as a firefighter's wife and mother, revealing the...
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#013 The Costume Closet: False Identities
Send us a text Who are you when the uniform comes off? When the relationship ends? When the bank account empties? Today's powerful exploration challenges us to look beyond the external identities we cling to and discover our authentic selves. Many of us become deeply attached to our professional...
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#012: Addicted to Suffering: Choosing the Hell We Know
Send us a text Why do we cling so tightly to the very things that cause us pain? It's a question that cuts to the heart of the human experience, and one that reveals a startling truth: we often become addicted to our own suffering. I share how we frequently choose "the hell we know over the…
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Welcome to Sit Around the Fire — the space where stories ignite transformation. Hosted by a former first responder turned licensed professional counselor and certified hypnotherapist, this podcast blends real-life experiences, powerful teachings, and practical tools for mental and physical health.
Each episode invites you to slow down, reflect, and find your spark again. Together, we explore mindfulness, stress management, trauma recovery, and PTSD healing — all through the lens of someone who’s lived it. You’ll hear raw conversations with first responders, veterans, and mental health experts as well as other incredible human beings with amazing stories and missions who share their wisdom on how to move from burnout to balance, from survival mode to thriving.
If you’re ready to break free from old patterns and beliefs, reclaim your peace, and live your most abundant, limitless life, this is your commun
HOSTED BY
Ashlea Dillard
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Sit Around the Fire have?
Sit Around the Fire currently has 63 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Sit Around the Fire about?
Welcome to Sit Around the Fire — the space where stories ignite transformation. Hosted by a former first responder turned licensed professional counselor and certified hypnotherapist, this podcast blends real-life experiences, powerful teachings, and practical tools for mental and physical health....
How often does Sit Around the Fire release new episodes?
Sit Around the Fire has 63 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Sit Around the Fire?
You can listen to Sit Around the Fire on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Sit Around the Fire?
Sit Around the Fire is created and hosted by Ashlea Dillard.
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