Ep. 049 | Stress to Strength: How First Responders Can Thrive Under Pressure

Ever wonder why your heart pounds at a fire scene even when you're standing still? Or why you can't seem to "turn off" hours after a tough call? Dr. Pete Kadushin, performance psychologist who spent years with professional athletes including the Chicago Blackhawks, joins host Chris to unpack the science behind performing under pressure.

The conversation dives deep into how our nervous system responds to high-stress situations and why even experienced first responders can sometimes freeze when facing novel challenges. It's not a character flaw—it's biology. Dr. Pete explains how our brain literally regresses under extreme pressure, losing access to higher-order thinking as we're pushed into survival mode.

What sets this episode apart is the practical, tactical approach to mental performance. This isn't about abstract concepts—it's about developing specific skills that translate directly to the fireground. Dr. Pete introduces a powerful framework for managing stress that includes both preparation and recovery techniques. You'll learn why "inoculation" against stress doesn't mean becoming impervious to it, but rather building the capacity to function effectively despite discomfort.

Perhaps most valuable is the discussion about post-incident recovery. Dr. Pete reveals four specific techniques—breathing, moving, connecting, and laughing—that signal safety to your nervous system and help you reset after intense calls. He explains why simply removing the stressor isn't enough and how proper recovery is crucial for sustainable performance over a career.

Whether you're a seasoned firefighter or just starting out, this episode offers science-backed strategies to enhance your mental performance under pressure while protecting your long-term wellbeing. Download Dr. Pete's free metronome app suggestion to start practicing balanced breathing today and check out his Mental Training Lab podcast for more insights.

keywords

mental performance, wellbeing, first responders, stress management, resilience, mindfulness, peak performance, firefighting, mental health, performance psychology, stress management, resilience, firefighting, mental health, performance, recovery, training, stress inoculation, emotional regulation, anti-fragility, celebrating wins, acknowledging failures, goal setting, mindfulness, growth mindset, performance psychology, resilience, reflection, breathing techniques, personal development

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