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Its not easy to NOT make that rash decision to go out and blow your hard earned back pay, and future pay supplements, on that new "overland rig", 6 bottles of high grade bourbon, a new rifle, optic, and god knows whatever vice you have... And yea... Before you ask, I know its hard... 'Cause I've been there - And also, this pay supplement may not be permanent... So, if you didn't blow all of your money already, listen in to this episode - It may save your ass (from a financial standpoint) in the future. John and I talk about a wide variety of subjects in this episode including: TSP, 401k's, investments, the long game of being able to retire, emergency funds, and much more... John is a financial advisor who served in the United States Military. He is also an avid rugby player, former medic, and D1 rugby trainer. John specializes in working with first responders and veterans. Being a service member himself, he knows that it is a grossly unserviced sector of society, and he's made it a personal mission to help those who have chosen to help others. To find out more about John, or to contact him about financial advice - Check out the following links: LinkedIn: John CullenInstagram: "Johnny Utah"Email: John.cullen@nm.com Hope this episode helps guide you in the right direction - And don't decide to "YOLO" your life savings on GME, SPY, or Crypto!!! You know the drill... Stay safe, stay savage... Enjoy! ..........................Updates! We launched a Patreon!!! If you guys would like to support us, head over to our Patreon Page! https://www.patreon.com/theanchorpointpodcast .......................... Sponsors: The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following wonderful folks... Mystery RanchNeed badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch!https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot BreweryWanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!!https://www.hotshotbrewing.com Not sponsors of The Anchor Point Podcast, but great organizations: The Wildland Firefighter FoundationAnd, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation!https://wffoundation.org The Smokey GenerationWanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation!http://wildfire-experience.org

Dialing in your nutrition can be extremely challenging for a tactical athlete, especially for a wildland firefighter during the fire season - The lunches absolutely suck, MRE's are probably nutritionally devoid, and you oftentimes find yourself eating a bunch of gas station food like a raccoon eating out of a dumpster...  That's why we have Michelle Yurick on the show today to talk about nutrition, needed improvements, and some simple life hacks to get more quality in your diet while on the road. Michelle Yurick is a Dietician, NDTR, and former Zig Zag Hotshot. She currently lives in Ohio and is working for an arborist outfit to keep her saw skills sharp, and keep that outdoor career alive... Here is a little more about Michelle: "I'm an adventurer, part-time nomad, former wildland firefighter, registered dietetic technician, current tree-climber-in-training, coffee addict, and occasionally I write things. I have a B.S. degree - My formal education is in the nutrition field, which has come in handy multiple times, including being a sort of health "guru" throughout several seasons in wildland fire. I live an unconventional life. I drive a blue VW van with boards, boats, and bikes stacked on top. I've been all over the U.S., calling many different states "home" for short periods of time. I've been north of our borders as well as south, and I've even been across the pond to Africa. The people, along with the different cultures and experiences have helped shape me into the person I am today. I'm passionate about health and nutrition, holistic wellness, fitness and human performance, protecting and accessing public lands, anything dealing with wildland fire...and finding the best local coffee shops wherever I happen to be..." You can find Michelle at the following: @wondering.nutritionist on Instagram Have a nutrition-related question? Get in touch! myurick6@gmail.com Be sure to hit her up and ask all about the life hacks we talked about on the show today! Stay safe, stay savage... Enjoy! ..........................Updates! We launched a Patreon!!! If you guys would like to support us, head over to our Patreon Page! https://www.patreon.com/theanchorpointpodcast .......................... Sponsors: The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following wonderful folks... Mystery RanchNeed badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch!https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot BreweryWanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!!https://www.hotshotbrewing.com Not sponsors of The Anchor Point Podcast, but great organizations: The Wildland Firefighter FoundationAnd, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation!https://wffoundation.org The Smokey GenerationWanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation!http://wildfire-experience.org

Melissa Moore is a former wildland firefighter, Hotshot, Smokejumper, and the founder of the Wildland Wellness Foundation - An organization that specializes in healing mental health issues through ancestral medicines... Thomas Wurm is the founder of Mountain Mind Tricks - An alternative therapy and mental health optimization practice that specializes in NLP, hypnosis, Mental-Emotional Release, and Hawaiian healing arts... Together, they make the dream team of alternative mental health practitioners when it comes to utilizing ancestral medicines in combination with other mind, body, and spiritual healing practices... Here's the mission statement from the Wildland Wellness Foundation: "We are working to create a new, CONSCIOUS fire culture by actively supporting and educating the wildland firefighter individually through their healing journey, and encouraging internal leadership. We hope to impact the wildland fire community in such a way that not only our suicide rate is reduced, but that our community leaders are empowered to make sound decisions in our rapidly changing fire environment through self-knowledge, awareness, and cultivated presence". Here is a little about Thomas: He is a Master Practitioner of NLP, Hypnosis, Mental-Emotional Release®️, Ancient Hawaiian Healing Arts - You can find his works at the following links: Mountainmindtricks.com Conscious Fire Culture Podcast Six Minutes For Excellence on Amazon Ayahuasca and other hallucinogenic substances are a powerful, and potentially very beneficial, means of therapy under the right circumstances... But, these are ancient substances that absolutely need to be treated with respect. I will say that this route of healing may seem a little "far fetched" for some, and may not be for everyone... However, I can say that if this kind of thing is "up your alley", and you are open minded enough to experience this journey - By all means, please seek the Wildland Wellness Foundation out for more information! Stay safe, stay savage... Enjoy! ..........................Updates! We launched a Patreon!!! If you guys would like to support us, head over to our Patreon Page! https://www.patreon.com/theanchorpointpodcast .......................... Sponsors: The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following wonderful folks... Mystery RanchNeed badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch!https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot BreweryWanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!!https://www.hotshotbrewing.com Not sponsors of The Anchor Point Podcast, but great organizations: The Wildland Firefighter FoundationAnd, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation!https://wffoundation.org The Smokey GenerationWanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation!http://wildfire-experience.org

Being in a very male dominated profession, women in the firefighting profession typically have a unique set of challenges to face... That's why we have Makenzie Gould on The Anchor Point Podcast today to talk about her career, her ideal nutrition, her fitness routine, making career choices that are advantageous, following your heart, and her ways of putting up up with the haters... "Mac" (Makenzie) is an 8 year veteran of the fire service and former competitive power lifter... She started out with CalFire's engine program, moved on to the CalFire Helitack program, and ended up on the Redding municipal fire department. Her perspective is unique when it comes to navigating the fire world - And she is one of those folks that does not take crap from anyone, she follows her passion, and she is a firm believer that ANYONE can do this line of work as long as they put in the work! To find out more about Makenzie, check out her social media profiles for nutrition, fitness, mentorship, motorcycles, and her incredible cooking skills at: @Kenziecakesss @kenziecakeskitchen TRIGGER WARNING/CONTENT ADVISORY: "Mac" tends to swear like a sailor, and she has a unique perspective on her experiences... Her views, perspectives, and language may be controversial for some - and they are solely her own. So, if you don't like this sort of content: Then don't listen to this episode... Stay safe, stay savage... Enjoy! ..........................Updates! We launched a Patreon!!! If you guys would like to support us, head over to our Patreon Page! https://www.patreon.com/theanchorpointpodcast .......................... Sponsors: The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following wonderful folks... Mystery RanchNeed badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch!https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot BreweryWanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!!https://www.hotshotbrewing.com Not sponsors of The Anchor Point Podcast, but great organizations: The Wildland Firefighter FoundationAnd, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation!https://wffoundation.org The Smokey GenerationWanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation!http://wildfire-experience.org

Today - June 21st, 2021: The entire federal wildland firefighting workforce FINALLY got some good news about the Bipartisan Infrastructure Act and the pay raise that comes along with it... That's why we have two of the major players in the game on the show to discuss all of the pertinent information, and how it effects the "boots on the ground". Special thank you to the Grassroots Wildland Firefighters nonprofit, and the National Federation of Federal Employees for your dedication and resolve in getting this implemented correctly! This monumental legislation couldn't have been possible without you two and, especially, every wildland firefighter out there that supported or believed in the cause... If you want to find out more about the pay supplement, check out this handy link: FAQ for the pay supplement = https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/interagency-faqs.pdf At the end of the day, always remember: "A person can only move so many shovel-fulls of dirt a day... But, thousands of people can move mountains..." Stay safe, stay savage... Enjoy! ..........................Updates! We launched a Patreon!!! If you guys would like to support us, head over to our Patreon Page! https://www.patreon.com/theanchorpointpodcast .......................... Sponsors: The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following wonderful folks... Mystery RanchNeed badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch!https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot BreweryWanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!!https://www.hotshotbrewing.com Not sponsors of The Anchor Point Podcast, but great organizations: The Wildland Firefighter FoundationAnd, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation!https://wffoundation.org The Smokey GenerationWanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation!http://wildfire-experience.org

Wildland firefighters tend to be a magnanimous, larger than life, and compassionate crowd... Our stories, legacies, triumphs, and tribulations  are oftentimes passed along through a very tribal, and (almost exclusively) verbal means. That's where The American Wildfire Experience comes in... To catalog and preserve this verbal history through digital storytelling... The American Wildfire Experience is a nonprofit organization who's roots are deep within the wildland firefighting community. Its primary mission is to support the wildland firefighters, and the communities they serve, by capturing the story of wildfire through digital media... Today on The Anchor Point Podcast: We get to hear the history of the AWE and The Smokey Generation's start, its purpose, its future projects, and we get to announce the winners of the 2022 Smokey Generation Micro-Grants. A little about Bethany: "Bethany Hannah is the executive director of the American Wildfire Experience and founder of The Smokey Generation. She has been involved in the wildland fire community since 1998 and has a passion for empowering others to take bold action.   The American Wildfire Experience (AWE) is a small non-profit rooted in understanding, examining, and telling the story of wildland fire. Our mission is to support wildland firefighters and the communities they serve." Congratulations to all of the recipients of the AWE/Smokey Generation Micro-grant award winners this year! I look forward to seeing all of the projects come to fruition, and preserved in a digital space. Also, I want to say:  "The Anchor Point Podcast would like to thank the AWE, it's board members, and Bethany Hannah for the honor of being awarded the 'AWE 2022 Ralph Langlois Impact Award' for mental health focus... This is a huge honor, and my gratitude is beyond measure! In honor of the people that, both past and present, lived and breathed the hardships of fighting wildland fire - I would like to dedicate this award to the people that struggle, or have struggled, with mental health challenges and the darkness that you may have experienced... I especially wish to honor and dedicate this award to the friends, mentors, and fire family that are no longer with us. For everyone out there: Always know that there are many peaks and valleys in our journey of life... And as my good friend, Ben Strahan, has said before: 'The valleys are a dark and low place... But, what's the strange beauty of the dark and lowly valley's of our lives? Well, the only place we can look from there, is up'. In acceptance of this award - I will be donating the full amount of the grant back to the AWE so that someone else may be able to build upon the foundation of this project that preserves the legacy, and tells the story, of the many wildland firefighters across the globe who go unrecognized in their efforts..." You know the drill... Stay safe, stay savage...  Enjoy! ..........................Updates! We launched a Patreon!!! If you guys would like to support us, head over to our Patreon Page! https://www.patreon.com/theanchorpointpodcast .......................... Sponsors: The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following wonderful folks... Mystery RanchNeed badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch!https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot BreweryWanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!!https://www.hotshotbrewing.com Not sponsors of The Anchor Point Podcast, but great organizations: The Wildland Firefighter FoundationAnd, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation!https://wffoundation.org The Smokey GenerationWanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation!http://wildfire-experience.org

Our very first guest on The Anchor Point Podcast, Nelda St. Clair, is back on the show for episode 100! Nelda is a former wildland firefighter who's worked her way through the ranks, and ultimately help bring about the CISM program. On this episode: We revisit her history, her background, and the updates to the CISM programs she has helped pave the way with... We also have Neldas husband, Ron Bollier, (former Type 2 IC and 41 year Hotshot) on the show to see what his perspectives are, why he left fire, and what he would like to see changed for future generations of wildland firefighters... Nelda also runs Critical Incident Concepts - A company that trains and prepares agency personnel, and responds to critical incidents around the United States for when incidents happen. So, sit down and have a listen - Because these folks have a TON of experience... And always remember what Ron and Nelda said about wildland firefighting - "There is no hall of fame"... You can be a part of the instruments of change by visiting The Grassroots Wildland Firefighters website and volunteering at: https://www.grassrootswildlandfirefighters.com You know the drill... Stay safe, stay savage...  Enjoy! ..........................Updates! We launched a Patreon!!! If you guys would like to support us, head over to our Patreon Page! https://www.patreon.com/theanchorpointpodcast .......................... Sponsors: The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following wonderful folks... Mystery RanchNeed badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch!https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot BreweryWanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!!https://www.hotshotbrewing.com Not a sponsor of The Anchor Point Podcast, but a great organization: The Wildland Firefighter FoundationAnd, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation!https://wffoundation.org The Smokey GenerationWanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation!http://wildfire-experience.org

Former Smokejumper and Hotshot, Bre Orcasitas, is on the show to talk in greater detail about her (extremely well written) article called, "The Great Exodus"... Today on the show: Bre goes into greater detail on why wildland firefighters are leaving federal service at an unsustainable pace... "The Great Exodus" is an incredibly well written exposé, taking in Bre's observations, shared peer experiences, and first hand reasons for leaving the federal fire service. Her article has made waves within the wildland firefighting community, and only continues to make accurate predictions of the fate of the federal wildland firefighting workforce. A little about Bre: Bre is a wife, mother, former smokejumper, former hotshot, and "Jill of all trades" with her diverse experience in the realm of wildland firefighting... She is also a domestic and international traveler, foodie, empath, conservationist, knowledge seeker, outdoor enthusiast, and aficionado of good coffee and baked goods... Bre also is a astute writer and blogger who has been featured on The Smokey Generation, Wildland Fire Lessons Learned Center, and other major news organizations... Check out these links for more: Wildland Fire's Great Exodus: https://theevolvingnomad.com/2021/10/13/wildland-fires-great-exodus/ Hold and Improve- Volume Alpha: https://theevolvingnomad.com/3956-2/ For interest in the Critical Incident Resource Guide or Critical Impact Course, contact info is:theevolvingnomad@gmail.com Social Media: @theevolvingnomad on IG You know the drill... Stay safe, stay savage... Enjoy! .......................... We launched a Patreon!!! If you guys would like to support us, head over to our Patreon Page! https://www.patreon.com/theanchorpointpodcast .......................... Sponsors: The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following wonderful folks... Mystery RanchNeed badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch!https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot BreweryWanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!!https://www.hotshotbrewing.com The Smokey GenerationWanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation!http://wildfire-experience.org Not a sponsor of The Anchor Point Podcast, but a great organization: The Wildland Firefighter FoundationAnd, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation!https://wffoundation.org

There is a very legitimate fear when it comes to reprisal and retribution within the federal workplace. It may not be every wildland firefighter that may experience it, but many have... That's why we have wildland firefighter, Pedro Rios, stops by on the show today to tell his story about reprisal, the lawsuit, and the lengthy process to resolution... Keep in mind that this episode is HIS story along with some of the publicly available court documents that outline and support the content of this episode. These documents can be found here: "Rios v. Dept. of Agriculture" - https://acrobat.adobe.com/link/track?uri=urn:aaid:scds:US:2f0349c0-b914-3eef-84b5-71d26c9b479e "Prohibited Personell Practices" - https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/5/2302If you have a story about reprisal, consider reaching out to: https://www.grassrootswildlandfirefighters.com You know the drill... Stay safe, stay savage... Enjoy! ..........................Updates! We launched a Patreon!!! If you guys would like to support us, head over to our Patreon Page! https://www.patreon.com/theanchorpointpodcast .......................... Sponsors: The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following wonderful folks... Mystery RanchNeed badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch!https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot BreweryWanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!!https://www.hotshotbrewing.com The Smokey GenerationWanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation!http://wildfire-experience.org Not a sponsor of The Anchor Point Podcast, but a great organization: The Wildland Firefighter FoundationAnd, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation!https://wffoundation.org

Micah Booze is a wildland firefighter, modern philosopher,  and entrepreneur from Alaska... Micah has some awesome insight and wisdom on fire leadership, networking, and looking at things from a different perspective... He's also an expert level Big Lebowski fan. He's also the brains behind the scenes at "The A.S.S. Movement" - A company founded on the premise of educating people on how to properly "do a number 2" in the woods, stewardship of the land, and fundraising for sick and injured wildland firefighters. On part 2 of this episode of The Anchor Point Podcast: I have the pleasure of sitting down with Micah to talk about the inherent issues facing our profession, how the community is capable of changing the system, and how the most important thing you can do is not give up. We also discuss the importance of being an advocate for change, and not just taking the easy way out by being cynical; or complaining about "the system" and not doing anything about it... You can be a part of the instruments of change by visiting The Grassroots Wildland Firefighters website and volunteering at: https://www.grassrootswildlandfirefighters.com You know the drill... Stay safe, stay savage... Enjoy! ..........................Updates! We launched a Patreon!!! If you guys would like to support us, head over to our Patreon Page! https://www.patreon.com/theanchorpointpodcast .......................... Sponsors: The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following wonderful folks... Mystery RanchNeed badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch!https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot BreweryWanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!!https://www.hotshotbrewing.com The Smokey GenerationWanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation!http://wildfire-experience.org Not a sponsor of The Anchor Point Podcast, but a great organization: The Wildland Firefighter FoundationAnd, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation!https://wffoundation.org

Micah Booze is a wildland firefighter, modern philosopher,  and entrepreneur from Alaska... Micah has some awesome insight and wisdom on fire leadership, networking, and looking at things from a different perspective... He's also an expert level Big Lebowski fan. He's also the brains behind the scenes at "The A.S.S. Movement" - A company founded on the premise of educating people on how to properly "do a number 2" in the woods, stewardship of the land, and fundraising for sick and injured wildland firefighters. On part 1 of this episode of The Anchor Point Podcast: I have the pleasure of sitting down with Micah to talk about how the wildland community is capable of changing the system, our perspective on leadership, the status of Grassroots Wildland Firefighters, and we give a massive shout out to the folks who are making a difference in the community... You know the drill... Stay safe, stay savage... Enjoy! ..........................Updates! We launched a Patreon!!! If you guys would like to support us, head over to our Patreon Page! https://www.patreon.com/theanchorpointpodcast .......................... Sponsors: The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following wonderful folks... Mystery RanchNeed badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch!https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot BreweryWanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!!https://www.hotshotbrewing.com The Smokey GenerationWanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation!http://wildfire-experience.org Not a sponsor of The Anchor Point Podcast, but a great organization: The Wildland Firefighter FoundationAnd, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation!https://wffoundation.org

Wildland firefighting tends to have a very "work hard, play harder" mentality surrounding the culture... And unfortunately, the "play harder" can be the part that gets the best of people. Lets all just take a step back to our own shoes for a second and really analyze the culture... Now that you've thought about it a little; it seems like drinking and wildland firefighting are kind of normalized in our culture, huh? How many times have you gone out on a rage post assignment? How many times have you had that "Hotshot money" at the end of the season and blew a significant portion of it on nights out at the bar with your friends? I know I have done it... And chances are, you have too. That's why we have former Interagency Hotshot, Jesse Morelock, on the show to talk about when the fun and catharsis goes way too far, and his story about the potential dangers of alcohol. For all of you listening to this, take some notes and have a bit of a self reflection into your decisions and lifestyle - Because they may lead you to the verge of a downward spiral... And as Jesse says on this episode: "Don't let your friends self destruct, don't be an enabler"... You know the drill... Stay safe, stay savage... Enjoy! If you have any questions for Jesse, you can find him here on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrmountainlion/ Substance abuse is a serious issue, but you can get help... If you need someone to talk to, or any assistance with alcohol/substance cessation, check out these useful links: Alcoholics Anonymous: https://www.aa.orgSAMHSA: https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline ..........................Updates! We launched a Patreon!!! If you guys would like to support us, head over to our Patreon Page! https://www.patreon.com/theanchorpointpodcast .......................... Sponsors: The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following wonderful folks... Mystery RanchNeed badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch!https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot BreweryWanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!!https://www.hotshotbrewing.com The Smokey GenerationWanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation!http://wildfire-experience.org Not a sponsor of The Anchor Point Podcast, but a great organization: The Wildland Firefighter FoundationAnd, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation!https://wffoundation.org

Ask yourself this question, and answer it honestly: Have you ever thought about leaving federal service? If you have, did it invoke a feeling of anxiety? Are you scared that you will lose "street cred"? Are you too comfortable with what you do now to pursue other things? Are you always trying to get that coveted perm position? Are you apprehensive to apply to anything else because "this is all I know"? How many opportunities have you passed up due to these reasons? Well - that's why we have former USFS helitack turned county firefighter, Monica Tanner, on the show today to talk about this very topic! Monica started off in the USFS as a seasonal firefighter. After a handful of years, she realized that she was ineligible to get that "coveted" permanent position due to the 37 and a 1/2 rule (yes, there is a maximum age rule for getting a permanent position with the feds)... So, with the guidance of her overhead, she had to make the move beyond the feds to find a new career opportunity. Disclaimer: This is not intended to be adversarial or as a "Hey, you should leave your job" at all... It's merely Monica's experience in taking the leap into an other career path... So, for anyone considering leaving - I hope this helps your decision! Y'all know the drill... Stay safe, stay savage... Enjoy! ..........................Updates! We launched a Patreon!!! If you guys would like to support us, head over to our Patreon Page! https://www.patreon.com/theanchorpointpodcast .......................... Sponsors: The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following wonderful folks... Mystery RanchNeed badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch!https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot BreweryWanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!!https://www.hotshotbrewing.com The Smokey GenerationWanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation!http://wildfire-experience.org

Today on the show, I have the honor to sit down with Burk Minor from the Wildland Firefighter Foundation™ to talk about how the organization was started, the mission that they fulfill, the legacies of men and women they preserve and honor, and the what the future of the organization looks like... Burk has an amazing vision for the Wildland Firefighter Foundation, and we get to hear it through his words. We also get the opportunity to clear up some misconceptions about the organization, hear his passion for giving back to the wildland community, and also get to know Burk a little bit. The Wildland Firefighter Foundation is a 501c3 nonprofit organization who's mission is to help families of firefighters killed in the line of duty and to assist injured firefighters and their families, across the globe, to anyone who steps foot "in the black"... From Honor Guard to just helping people get by in times of need - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation is, and has been, there for the boots on the ground since 1994. The Wildland Firefighter Foundation is primarily funded from the generosity of the very community of wildland firefighters that it supports and a handful of corporate donors who believe in the WFF's mission. Please consider joining the "52 Club" or purchasing some merchandise from the following website: https://wffoundation.org While you're at it, please consider following their social media platforms as well: Instagram = https://www.instagram.com/wffoundation/ FaceBook = https://www.facebook.com/WFFoundation Happy Valentines Day! Y'all know the drill... Stay safe, stay savage... Enjoy! ..........................Updates! We launched a Patreon!!! If you guys would like to support us, head over to our Patreon Page! https://www.patreon.com/theanchorpointpodcast .......................... Sponsors: The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following wonderful folks... Mystery RanchNeed badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch!https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot BreweryWanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!!https://www.hotshotbrewing.com The Smokey GenerationWanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation!http://wildfire-experience.org

Former Snake River Hotshot, Kevin Conley, stops by to talk on part 3 of his epic bicycle journey across the United States to raise awareness for mental health and fundraise for the Wildland Firefighter Foundation... We last spoke with Kevin when he was in Pensacola, Florida on the last leg of his journey across the southern tier bike route. Now we sit down at the Wildland Firefighter Foundation in Boise, Idaho, to record his "post fundraiser tell-all" about the trip! Kevin finished his ride in St. Augustine, Florida December 19th, 2021 with an entourage of Forest Service firefighters, the St. Augustine Fire Department, law enforcement escorts, and a contingent of fans who have been tracking his trip. Kevins endeavor ended up raising just shy of $15,000 for the Wildland Firefighter Foundation... But more importantly, his journey brought awareness to the issue of mental health in the wildland community while simultaneously healing his own struggles. To follow his journey, check out his socials here: https://www.instagram.com/backcountryninjas/ Special thanks to Payette Brewing Co. and all the folks who came out to supporting Kevin's in-person fundraiser to round off his epic journey! You know the drill... Stay safe, stay savage... Enjoy! ..........................Updates! We launched a Patreon!!! If you guys would like to support us, head over to our Patreon Page! https://www.patreon.com/theanchorpointpodcast .......................... Sponsors: The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following wonderful folks... Mystery RanchNeed badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch!https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot BreweryWanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!!https://www.hotshotbrewing.com The Smokey GenerationWanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation!http://wildfire-experience.org Not a sponsor of The Anchor Point Podcast, but a great organization: The Wildland Firefighter FoundationAnd, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation!https://wffoundation.org

Former Snake River Hotshot, Kevin Conley, stops by to talk on part 2 of his epic bicycle journey across the United States to raise awareness for mental health and fundraise for the Wildland Firefighter Foundation... We first spoke with Kevin when he was just crossing over the state line from New Mexico into Texas... And in almost 2 short weeks, he has almost crossed the finish line in Florida! Be there and watch the conclusion of his epic bike ride on December 19th or 20th, 2021 (weather depending) in St. Augustine, Florida! To follow his journey, check out his socials here: https://www.instagram.com/backcountryninjas/ To donate to the cause, visit this link: https://wff.givecloud.co/product/Fundraiser-KevinConley/donation-for-kevin-and-rockys-southern-tier-3700-mile-ride-for-wildland-firefighters-mental-health You know the drill... Stay safe, stay savage... Enjoy! ..........................Updates! We launched a Patreon!!! If you guys would like to support us, head over to our Patreon Page! https://www.patreon.com/theanchorpointpodcast .......................... Sponsors: The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following wonderful folks... Mystery RanchNeed badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch!https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot BreweryWanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!!https://www.hotshotbrewing.com The Smokey GenerationWanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation!http://wildfire-experience.org Not a sponsor of The Anchor Point Podcast, but a great organization: The Wildland Firefighter FoundationAnd, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation!https://wffoundation.org

Former Snake River Hotshot, Kevin Conley, stops by to talk about the first part of his epic bicycle journey across the United States to raise awareness for mental health and fundraise for the Wildland Firefighter Foundation... To follow his journey, check out his socials here: https://www.instagram.com/backcountryninjas/ To donate to the cause, visit this link: https://wff.givecloud.co/product/Fundraiser-KevinConley/donation-for-kevin-and-rockys-southern-tier-3700-mile-ride-for-wildland-firefighters-mental-health You know the drill... Stay safe, stay savage... Enjoy! ..........................Updates! We launched a Patreon!!! If you guys would like to support us, head over to our Patreon Page! https://www.patreon.com/theanchorpointpodcast .......................... Sponsors: The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following wonderful folks... Mystery RanchNeed badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch!https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot BreweryWanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!!https://www.hotshotbrewing.com The Smokey GenerationWanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation!http://wildfire-experience.org Not a sponsor of The Anchor Point Podcast, but a great organization: The Wildland Firefighter FoundationAnd, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation!https://wffoundation.org

At some point in your wildland firefighting career, you may come face to face with your own mortality... And unfortunately, these brushes with life and death could have long term mental health consequences. Today on the show, we talk about these very subjects with someone who has had one of these close calls... Emily Parnaby is a 9 year veteran of the Australian wildland firefighting game who moved to America to find a new beginning, heal from her experience, and seek a re-entry into the wildfire game. Today, she tells her story... You can find her socials here: FaceBook:https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100011781793181 Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/emparnaby/ You know the drill... Stay safe, stay savage... Enjoy! ..........................Updates! We launched a Patreon!!! If you guys would like to support us, head over to our Patreon Page! https://www.patreon.com/theanchorpointpodcast .......................... Sponsors: The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following wonderful folks... Mystery RanchNeed badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch!https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot BreweryWanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!!https://www.hotshotbrewing.com The Smokey GenerationWanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation!http://wildfire-experience.org Not a sponsor of The Anchor Point Podcast, but a great organization: The Wildland Firefighter FoundationAnd, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation!https://wffoundation.org

If you haven't seen the new "fire" movie, "Two Yellow Lines" - You need to stop what you're doing, and watch it... This isn't necessarily a "fire" movie in the context of actual "firefighting", but more along the lines of the inconvenient truths about the mental health components that can be associated with a fire career... The most incredible part of this film? It tells a vivid story of what wildland firefighters experience, without showing a SINGLE scene of "Hollywood-ized hero complex" firefighting... The story revolves around a Smokejumper who was involved with a tragedy fire, the PTSI as a result of the incident, his estranged daughter, and the long journey to recovery and healing. This is why we have the producer, writer, and lead actor, Zac Titus, on the show today to give us the breakdown of the film that is making waves across the fire community! Take a listen to this episode, then watch the film - Or watch the film and then listen to this episode... Either way - This film is the real highlight of the talking points in the episode... You can find this incredible film here: https://www.twoyellowlinesfilm.comhttps://www.amazon.com/Two-Yellow-Lines-Zac-Titus/dp/B09L6MGTBM You can find Zac's socials here: https://www.instagram.com/zactitus1/?hl=en You know the drill... Stay safe, stay savage... Enjoy! ..........................Updates! We launched a Patreon!!! If you guys would like to support us, head over to our Patreon Page! https://www.patreon.com/theanchorpointpodcast .......................... Sponsors: The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following wonderful folks... Mystery RanchNeed badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch!https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot BreweryWanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!!https://www.hotshotbrewing.com The Smokey GenerationWanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation!http://wildfire-experience.org Not a sponsor of The Anchor Point Podcast, but a great organization: The Wildland Firefighter FoundationAnd, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation!https://wffoundation.org

Well folks, its about that time to start calling it dunzo for the season... With that comes a whole new set of challenges - The boredom, the part where you have to explain to the "normies" what you do for work, the awkward reintegration into your own family, figuring out what you're going to do during the winter, the holidays, where you're going to live - The list goes on... All of this stacks up, and it can be an overwhelming experience for the folks that are young in the game... It can even be more difficult for the folks that are seasoned in the fire game. Thats why we have Shannon Mead on the show today to talk about the importance of having a plan for the off season, and also not having a "Glide-path" to actually wind down from the adrenaline high and stress of the fire season. Heres a little more about Shannon: Shannon Mead is a local clinician in Reno, Nevada who specializes in military, law enforcement, wildland firefighters, and first responders... "As a therapist, adoptive mom, and friend/family member to a whole bunch of first responders - I know that helping takes a heavy toll on those who are willing to shoulder the burden. And unfortunately, the existing supports aren’t always helpful (to put it kindly). Whether I am working with individuals, couples, or an entire organization, my purpose is to strengthen those who sacrifice for our community.   I have a Masters degree in Couple and Family Therapy from Antioch University and a corporate coaching certificate from Fielding University. I am intrigued by systems and patterns, and as a therapist I tend to be practical and straightforward. Perhaps that is because I spent many years as a tech and data consultant before pivoting into counseling.  Over the years I have become increasingly interested in compassion fatigue and secondary trauma, and focused most of my research on these topics. As a foster/adoptive parent I have felt the burden myself, but have also seen it in the lives of my guardian friends and family. I absolutely hate that those who step in to help are often chewed up by the roles and I’m working hard to do something about it." She is just one of the many "culturally competent clinicians" out there that are available... Please feel free to use her practice as a resource this season. You can find her practice here: https://www.stackofstones.com Shannon also just produced a training video with some great tips on winding down for the off season! You can find that video, and a bunch of other good stuff at the following links here: https://www.stackofstones.com/wildland-resources https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuxxAjOcs6P5MfZC8NCoPHg Call her, email her, do whatever you need to do to take care of yourselves before, during, and after the fire season! You know the drill... Stay safe, stay savage... Enjoy! ..........................Updates! We launched a Patreon!!! If you guys would like to support us, head over to our Patreon Page! https://www.patreon.com/theanchorpointpodcast .......................... Sponsors: The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following wonderful folks... Mystery RanchNeed badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch!https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot BreweryWanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!!https://www.hotshotbrewing.com The Smokey GenerationWanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation!http://wildfire-experience.org Not a sponsor of The Anchor Point Podcast, but a great organization: The Wildland Firefighter FoundationAnd, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation!https://wffoundation.org