Show notes
In this episode of the Burnout podcast, Richard Gallegos shares his journey from being a paramedic to becoming a mental health advocate. He discusses his struggles with addiction, the turning point that led him to seek help, and the therapeutic conversations he had while working at the IAFF Center of Excellence. Richard also talks about his book 'Recovery Run', his motivation for ultra running, and his new business, Rescue and Recovered. He emphasizes the importance of addressing stigma in mental health and encourages those struggling to seek help and speak up.TakeawaysRichard Gallegos is a veteran ultra marathoner and mental health advocate.He struggled with PTSD, depression, and addiction during his EMS career.The turning point for Richard was the threat of losing his family.He emphasizes the importance of supportive relationships in recovery.Richard's book 'Recovery Run' details his journey and the struggles of EMS workers.Ultra running became a metaphor for perseverance and overcoming obstacles.He started a business called Rescue and Recovered, focusing on auto detailing.Richard aims to combine his passions for ultra running and mental health advocacy.Stigma in the EMS field is a significant barrier to seeking help.Richard encourages open conversations about mental health and finding trusted individuals to talk to.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Richard Gallegos01:02 Richard's Journey in EMS and Mental Health06:22 The Turning Point: Acknowledging Addiction10:48 Therapeutic Conversations: Helping Others11:42 Writing 'Recovery Run': A Personal Journey15:05 The Motivation Behind Ultra Running19:47 Starting a New Business: Rescue and Recovered22:08 Combining Passions: Ultra Running and Mental Health Advocacy24:04 Confronting Stigma in Mental Health28:40 Finding Help: Encouragement for Those StrugglingPLEASE SUPPORT THIS PODCAST BY TAKING A LOOK AT OUR SPONSORSThrottle & Thrive First Responder Addiction Recovery: https://throttleandthrive.com/AdvoCast: https://advocast.mediaPODCAST WEBSITE:https://burntoutpodcast.orgBURNT OUT CREW:Host: Skip OMental Health Minute: Melissa HSunday Support Zoom Meeting Facilitator: Jeff DBonus Episode Host: Capt. Chuck BrayExecutive Producer: Shawn P NealBrought to you by AdvoCastEPISODE HASHTAGS:#firefighter #firstresponder #ems #emt #police #lawenforcement #military #trauma #mentalhealth #USMC #military