Nate Sturm talks about a LODD that his fire department experienced that brought about the dark season of life that almost tore his family apart. Nate shares how alcohol was the downfall and how his faith in Jesus Christ lifted him and his family from the darkness and into the light, giving purpose to the pain he endured. I am inspired by Nate’s transparency and vulnerability, which are shown in our conversationTakeaways- Nate Sturm has 24 years of experience in the fire service.- He founded Buddy Breathers, a Christian-based outreach program for mental health support.- A tragic incident in June 2022 led to severe anxiety and guilt for Nate.- Nate's family was deeply affected by his struggles with mental health and alcohol.- The turning point for Nate was when his daughter expressed her feelings about his absence.- Seeking professional help was crucial for Nate's recovery.- Nate emphasizes the importance of community and peer support in overcoming struggles.- Faith played a significant role in Nate's healing process.- Nate encourages open communication about mental health in the fire service.It's okay to not be okay, and reaching out for help is vital.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Nate Sturm's Journey02:53 Nate's Career and Family Background05:45 The Tragic Incident: A Call for Help08:09 The Aftermath: Guilt and Anxiety10:21 Struggles with Mental Health and Substance Use15:24 The Mask of Positivity: A Deceptive Facade21:07 Impact on Family and Relationships28:40 The Impact of Addiction on Family Dynamics32:39 The Breaking Point: A Daughter's Heartfelt Words35:38 Seeking Help: The Turning Point40:00 Faith and Professional Help: A Dual Approach46:11 Finding Purpose in Pain: The Journey of Healing51:35 Encouragement for Those Struggling: A Call to Action For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more! Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.
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1:06:08
THE CRUCIBLE
In this episode, I sat down with Marcos and Logan to discuss our vision for The Crucible and how it all came together. We discussed what The Crucible is and what it's not. This conversation will give you a clear view of The Crucible's purpose and why it is so important to us.The application closes today at 11:59 PM Mountain Time. If you are wondering if you have what it takes to complete The Crucible, the only way to find out is to apply and try. What is The Crucible? We will do 12 in-gear workouts over 24 hours on May 31st, 2025, in Denver, Colorado. We believe in building mental and physical resilience through fitness, hard work, and shared suffering. Crucible: a severe test in which something is tested through an external and internal conflict, producing something new. Apply here:https://www.fittofightfireusa.com/the-crucible For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more! Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.
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22:59
Brad Conrado - IDENTIFIED IN CHRIST
Brad shares how a grab made, made him challenge where he was putting his identity and how firefighters who follow Christ can lead their firehouse lives. We talk about how identifying as a firefighter first can leave us feeling lost when our careers are over. For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more! Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.
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58:46
Joshua Dukes - PRIORITIZE PAIN
In episode 30, I talk with Joshua Dukes about several seasons of adversity that he weathered with his faith in the Lord. Joshua shares the challenges faced when his 19-month-old son Trucker Dukes was diagnosed with cancer and how Trucker inspired so many during his battle with cancer and continues to today after his passing. We talk about how standing up for his beliefs led to his termination from the job he loved as a firefighter and how he continues to give all the pain he endured throughout his life purpose.This is a story of courage, faith, and living with joy amid trials. Joshua's time with me inspired me, moved me to tears, and made me want to be a better man. Joshua's powerful story will inspire you. For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more! Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.
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2:28:46
Josh Burchick - FORGED & UNBROKEN
This is an incredibly powerful episode where Josh talks about his crew's performance during an RIT/RIC activation for the late Nathan Flynn. Josh shares how years of mental and physical training came together for his crew so they could do everything possible to rescue one of their own.Josh's perspective, backed by data, sheds light on the staggering physical demands that firefighters face in their line of duty. His work underscores the undeniable strain on their minds and bodies, making it a must-listen for all. Josh also has a Patreon page with incredible resources to help us prepare mentally and physically for our jobs. I joined yesterday and love the content.Forged And Unbroken Fire Patreon: https://patreon.com/user?u=89578184&utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan&utm_content=join_link For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more! Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.
Podcast Intro 'The Firefighters Call' by Ger Devine www. gerarddevinepoetry.comWe are a community built on the foundation of Faith, Family, and Fire.We believe in hard work, discipline, and sacrifice, inspiring us to train our minds and bodies daily. It is an honor to serve our communities, leading us to pursue our craft in a way that honors the oath and all those who came before us. We are fighting the celebration of mediocrity one act at a time.Join the Community at www.patreon.com/fittofightfire and start getting your workout of the day today!