First responders are trained to save lives, but who’s there to save them? In this powerful conversation, Kaitlin sits down with retired firefighter-paramedic Matty Fiorenza, founder of the First Responder Peace and Refuge Foundation.

Matty opens up about his battle with PTSD, addiction, and the struggles that nearly took his life—and the life-changing support that helped him heal.

They discuss the stigma around mental health in high-stress professions, why traditional therapy isn’t always enough, and the alternative treatments making a real difference.

If you or someone you love has ever felt trapped by trauma, this episode is a must-listen.

** We had a few connection problems on the call for this episode, so apologies for the drop in quality in some sections - it was such a great conversation though that we wanted to still get it out there **

Here are the highlights:

(5:22) Matty's Journey to Firefighting and Early Struggles

(13:25) Matty's Turning Point and Recovery

(29:50) Matty's Involvement in the First Responder Community

(1:03:22) Matty's Work with the First Responder Peace and Refuge Foundation

(1:07:36) Matty's Role in the Recent Wildfires and Community Support

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What does success really look like without alcohol? In this episode, I share how my perspective on achievement transformed after sobriety.

I once measured success by ticking society’s boxes—marriage, kids, a house—yet still felt unfulfilled. It wasn’t until I redefined success as a daily practice that things shifted.

Regulating your nervous system, being a safe presence for others, and embracing laughter - I explore how these simple but powerful principles can reshape your life.

If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re truly thriving, this episode offers a new way to measure success - one that’s authentic, joyful, and entirely your own.

Here are the highlights:

(2:11) Personal Achievements Post-Sobriety

(2:47) Pillars of Redefining Success

(3:25) Practical Steps to Achieve Success

(7:36) The Impact of Alcohol on Daily Life

(11:33) The Plant Analogy

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What does it really mean to be a grateful alcoholic? In this week’s episode, I reflect on six years of sobriety, how I went from resisting the label to fully embracing it, and why gratitude has been the foundation of my recovery.

Through personal stories, journaling reflections, and lessons from AA, I share how choosing gratitude—even in the hardest moments—has kept me grounded, resilient, and deeply connected to my purpose.

We’ll explore how shifting your perspective can turn challenges into growth, why gratitude is a practice (not just a feeling), and how embracing joy can transform your journey—whether you're sober-curious or years into recovery.

Here are the highlights:

(2:17) Life Experiences and Relationships in Sobriety

(5:13) Challenges and Hardships in Sobriety

(11:20) Gratitude and Personal Growth in Sobriety

(14:06) Practicing Gratitude and Compassion

Meet a 'Wine Mom' Turned 'Sober Curious':

https://youtu.be/nG3qB1z5Qq8?si=1V9b2mDXL6PBPjd1

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