From the Field: Learning to Lead and Take Up Space

From the Field: Learning to Lead and Take Up Space

Leadership isn't just about what you know...it's about how you're willing to show up. In this candid From the Field conversation, Olivia Mead and Jess Gannon pull back the curtain on what happens behind the scenes before YFFR Instructor School begins. Fresh off two neural meditations, they unpack limiting beliefs around visibility, authenticity, self-worth, and the fear of taking up space. Their conversation explores how doing your own inner work allows you to better serve others—and why the best instructors aren't the loudest people in the room, but the ones willing to lead authentically. If you've ever questioned whether you're qualified, struggled with imposter syndrome, or found yourself shrinking to make others comfortable, this episode is for you. Interested in becoming a YFFR Instructor? Visit YogaForFirstResponders.org to learn more about Instructor School programs and online trainings.

Pencils, Scantrons, and Firefighter Dreams: Following the Fire with Linzie

What happens after the physical test? Fresh out of her written exam, Linzie joins Olivia to break down her experience—from the testing room experience and how she managed her stress to what comes next in the hiring process. This candid conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the realities of pursuing a career in the fire service while highlighting the importance of preparation, confidence, and honest self-assessment. Whether you're preparing for a firefighter hiring process, considering a career in public safety, or simply interested in human performance under pressure, this episode offers a real look at what happens when preparation meets opportunity. Interested in following along with Linzie's Journey? Follow us on social media and subscribe to our podcast: yogaforfirstresponders.org https://www.instagram.com/yogaforfirstresponders/ https://www.facebook.com/YogaForFirstResponders/ Mentioned in this episode: LUMEBOX: $260 Off of Lumebox click the link and use code:yogaforfirstresponders https://thelumebox.com/pages/lb68/?_ef_transaction_id=&oid=3&affid=4521&discount=yogaforfirstresponders

Running on Empty: Burnout vs Under Recovery

Are you burned out...or are you simply under-recovered? In this week's Quickcast, Olivia explores a common mistake many first responders, military personnel, healthcare workers, and high-performers make: confusing burnout with a lack of recovery. She breaks down the critical differences between the two, explains the warning signs your body sends when it's running at a deficit, and shares practical ways to restore your resilience before exhaustion turns into true burnout. You'll learn: • The difference between burnout and under-recovery • How to recognize nervous system warning signs • The simple question that can help you identify what you actually need • Practical recovery tools you can implement today Recovery isn't weakness. Recovery is training. Listen now and start your journey. Learn more about Yoga for First Responders and access recovery tools, courses, and training at yogaforfirstresponders.org Don't forget to like and subscribe for more weekly episodes about resilience and regulation! Mentioned in this episode: June Breathe Tactically Challenge Sign up for the Breathe Tactically 21-Day Challenge (starting June 1st): https://university.yogaforfirstresponders.org/breathe-tactically-challenge-sign-up

Do It Scared: Linzie's Test Day (Following the Fire)

What happens when months of preparation come down to one morning? In this special behind-the-scenes episode of Yoga For First Responders On Air, we're bringing you along for every moment of Linzie's test day. From the early morning nerves and nausea to the breathwork, mindset tools, waiting in the parking lot, and the moment when she finds out if she passes or fails. This isn't a polished recap after the fact. It's a real-time audio diary captured throughout the day, giving you an authentic look at the physical and mental demands firefighter candidates face during the hiring process. You'll hear: • Linzie's pre-test preparation and mindset strategies • Reflections from the parking lot while the testing unfolds • The reality of completing the PAC Test with a 45-pound vest • Linzie's final test result Most importantly, this episode reminds us that courage is not the absence of fear. Courage is continuing forward despite it. Interested in following along with Linzie's Journey? Follow us on social media and subscribe to our podcast: yogaforfirstresponders.org https://www.instagram.com/yogaforfirstresponders/ https://www.facebook.com/YogaForFirstResponders/ Mentioned in this episode: June Breathe Tactically Challenge Sign up for the Breathe Tactically 21-Day Challenge (starting June 1st): https://university.yogaforfirstresponders.org/breathe-tactically-challenge-sign-up

From the Field: Podcasting, Resilience, and Rollercoasters

In this special “From the Field” episode of YFFR On Air, Olivia sits down in Downtown Disney with YFFR podcast producer Maia Lucas for a candid conversation about stress, resilience, rollercoasters, podcasting, and the unexpected ways life mirrors nervous system training. This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the people who help bring the podcast to life and explores how everything from Disneyland rides to walking down Main Street can become lessons in surrender, stress response, preparation, and performance under pressure. In this episode: * Roller coasters, fear response, and nervous system regulation * Podcasting behind the scenes at YFFR * Maia’s journey into podcast production and theater * The evolution of Linzie's "Following the Fire" series This episode is a reminder that resilience training doesn’t just happen in classrooms or gyms — it happens in everyday moments, conversations, and experiences. Don't forget to like and subscribe for more weekly episodes about resilience in day-to-day life! Mentioned in this episode: June Breathe Tactically Challenge Sign up for the Breathe Tactically 21-Day Challenge (starting June 1st): https://university.yogaforfirstresponders.org/breathe-tactically-challenge-sign-up