Mass shootings are some of the most difficult emergencies anyone can face. For the first responders who rush to help, the effects can last a lifetime. In Episode 29 of When The Call Hits Home, Jennifer sits down with her dad, retired police sergeant Jim Woosley, as he recounts his first responder mass shooting experience during the tragic 1989 Louisville mass shooting. Their candid conversation shines a light on surviving trauma, coping after the crisis, and supporting families touched by such events.

When you think of first responders—police officers, firefighters, EMTs—you might picture them as superheroes. But behind the uniforms, there’s a whole family feeling the weight of big challenges. One of the biggest? Financial stress in first responder families. Let’s have some honest conversation about what this really looks like and why it matters.

Explore what the vagus nerve is, why it matters for first responder wellness, and simple ways to use this knowledge to manage stress.

When we picture police officers, we usually think about bravery, discipline, and keeping our communities safe. But what often goes unseen are the challenges they face behind the scenes, especially when it comes to mental health and resilience.

In this inspiring episode, Jennifer and Ashlee welcome Mark Mueller, a retired police lieutenant from Hoffman Estates. For his take on life after law enforcement.

Looking back on a year of growth, the “When The Call Hits Home” podcast has connected listeners with insights into the unique challenges faced by first responder families.