In this episode of Beyond the Call, host Peter interviews Crystal Culp, a retired nurse from Alberta, Canada, about her extensive 38-year career in the nursing field. Crystal shares her background, having grown up in Southern Ontario and her nursing journey which began in Northern Ontario. She discusses the challenges she faced, including homesickness during college, her extensive experience in varied nursing areas, and the intense situations of cardiac and labor units. Crystal also delves into her experience with organizational trauma and leadership challenges, and how these experiences led to her current advocacy for nurses. She emphasizes the importance of supportive workplaces, retention, and appreciation for nursing staff. This episode provides a deep dive into the personal and professional life of a dedicated nurse and the systemic issues within the healthcare system.

In this episode of the 'Beyond The Call' podcast, Willow, a long-time friend mine, shares her harrowing journey through childhood neglect, sexual abuse, and eventually being coerced into sex work by an abusive partner named Brad.

The conversation details Willow's early life, characterized by a lack of nurture and support from her parents, and follows her into a toxic relationship where she was manipulated into full-service sex work under threats and coercion. Willow discusses her struggles with PTSD, her relationships, and the ongoing impact of her trauma, including a diagnosis of Functional Neurological Disorder.

Highlighting the importance of therapy and self-care, Willow opens up about her path to reclaim her narrative and find hope and healing, emphasizing the value of seeking help and building supportive communities.

This is an incredibly brave episode and contains triggering subjects. Please use your discretion when deciding to listen.

In this episode of Beyond the Call podcast, I talk with Mark Thomas, the president of Code Nine Foundation and a current serving police officer. We discuss Mark's journey through his mental health struggles triggered by a traumatic on-duty experience and the subsequent development of PTSD, anxiety, and depression.

Mark shares his path to recovery, which included hospitalization, therapy, and a strong support network, particularly highlighting the role his boss Mick Bennett played. They also touch on the initiatives and support services provided by the Code Nine Foundation, which helps first responders and their families through various programs like meal deliveries, respite weekends, assistance dogs, and more. The conversation underscores the importance of mental health support, social connection, and personal growth through adversity.

Code 9 information and book ordering can be found at the following:

https://www.code9ptsd.org.au/

facebook: https://www.facebook.com/code9ptsd