In Episode 143 of The Things We All Carry we delve into the powerful and inspiring story of Tim Spradlin, a veteran, a retired firefighter, and a fire marshal who now runs a successful equine therapy farm in Ohio. Tim shares his multifaceted journey through trauma and recovery, his battles with depression and anxiety, and the transformative power of equine therapy. This episode not only highlights Tim's personal experiences but also explores the profound impact of understanding trauma, seeking help, and the importance of community support. Tune in to hear Tim's invaluable insights and learn how he helps first responders and veterans find peace and recovery.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:22 Reflecting on Personal Struggles

02:50 The Question of Doing Enough

05:43 Holiday Struggles and Support

07:58 Introducing Tim Spradlin

10:41 Tim's Journey and Equine Therapy

18:47 Military and First Responder Experiences

29:45 Healing and Helping Others

37:37 Understanding Herd Animals: Horses and Humans

38:23 The Healing Power of Vulnerability

38:47 Learning Through Equine-Assisted Activities

41:26 Personal Reflections and Childhood Memories

46:31 The Importance of Being Present

47:33 Combining Therapy and Peer Support

52:47 Daily Practices for Mental Well-being

55:32 The Journey to Inner Peace

01:04:32 The Future of Finally Home Farm

01:10:54 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Episode 142

In this powerful episode of 'The Things We All Carry,' Stack returns after a hiatus to share his personal battle with depression and self-reflection. He introduces his guest, Ashley Iverson, the widow of Corey Iverson, a firefighter who perished in the Thomas Fire of 2017. Ashley talks about coping with her immense loss, finding gratitude, and her mission to support first responders through the Iverson Foundation for Active Awareness (IFAA). She discusses mental health, the importance of gratitude, self-care, and how she continues to carry forward and make a difference in the lives of others.

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast

00:25 Personal Struggles and Introspection

02:03 Understanding Depression

04:17 The Journey to Self-Forgiveness

13:43 Introducing Episode 142

16:42 Interview with Ashley Iverson

18:58 Ashley's Background and Early Life

32:39 Meeting Corey Iverson

34:42 A Love Story Begins

36:13 The Proposal and Marriage

36:33 The Thomas Fire Tragedy

37:18 Coping with Loss

38:23 Mental Health Awareness

53:13 The Iverson Foundation

01:07:43 Elements of Healing

01:15:20 Moving Forward

01:19:59 Final Thoughts and Reflections

In this heartfelt episode of 'The Things We All Carry,' Stack interviews grief coach Lynn Lewis, who shares her journey through grief after the tragic loss of her son to suicide. Lynn talks about her mission to help others by sharing her own story and the importance of grieving out loud. They discuss the complexities of grief, the misconceptions around the stages of grief, and the critical need for self-care. Lynn also emphasizes the emotional toll on first responders and how her work aims to break the stigma surrounding mental health and grief. This episode is a reminder that it's okay to talk about our pain and loss and that doing so can be a powerful step toward healing.

00:00 Introduction to The Things We All Carry Podcast

00:45 Host's Personal Reflections and Struggles

01:45 Dealing with Grief and Emotions

03:39 Upcoming Episode Preview

07:19 Guest Introduction: Lynn Lewis

07:34 Lynn's Story: A Mother's Grief

08:11 The Impact of Suicide on Family

08:26 Lynn's Journey to Becoming a Grief Coach

09:25 Encouragement to Share and Heal

10:19 Conversation with Lynn Lewis

16:35 Daniel's Life and Career

24:37 The Day of the Tragedy

30:17 Understanding and Coping with Suicide

41:02 Turning Pain into Purpose

41:14 Sharing the Story: A Path to Healing

42:34 Navigating the Stigma of Suicide

44:02 Understanding Grief and Its Stages

47:11 Acknowledgement vs. Acceptance

48:42 Creating an Action Plan for Grief

49:45 Dealing with Guilt and Moving Forward

53:16 Coping with Anniversaries and Special Dates

57:35 The Importance of Talking About Grief

01:06:58 Resources and Final Thoughts