From the Ashes: Justin Champion on Trauma, Recovery, and Mental Health in the Fire Service
From the Ashes: Justin Champion on Trauma, Recovery, and Mental Health in the Fire Service
Overcoming PTSD: A Firefighter's Journey - Beneath the Helmet Season 3
What happens when a firefighter who’s always been the one saving others finds himself in need of rescue? In this compelling episode of Beneath the Helmet, retired Fire Chief Arjuna George speaks with Justin Champion—a veteran, firefighter, and founder of From the Ashes—who opens up about his personal battle with PTSD, burnout, and the hidden toll of a life in service.
From multiple military deployments to years in the fire service, Justin’s experiences are both harrowing and inspiring. He shares how the accumulation of trauma affected his career, relationships, and mental health—and how he reached a turning point by calling what he calls a “mental mayday.” Through therapy, faith, and a renewed sense of purpose, Justin not only rebuilt his life but is now helping others in the fire service do the same.
If you’re a firefighter, first responder, or someone who supports them, this conversation will give you practical tools for caring for your own mental health and supporting your brothers and sisters in the field. Justin dives into culture change in the fire service, the role of senior firefighters, and the importance of family wellbeing. His message is clear: it’s okay not to be okay, and asking for help is one of the bravest things you can do.
Watch now to gain powerful insights, share this episode with your crew, and help break the stigma around mental health in the fire service.
Don’t forget to subscribe to Beneath the Helmet for more real stories, leadership lessons, and wellness strategies for firefighters and first responders.
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction and Welcome
00:53 Meet Justin Champion
01:24 Justin's Personal Journey
02:23 The Role of Faith
03:50 Experiencing Trauma
07:23 Seeking Help and Recovery
11:37 Changing Fire Service Culture
15:12 Addressing Mental Health Gaps
17:49 The Importance of Senior Firefighters
22:56 Approaching Stoic Firefighters
23:54 Reaching Out to a Friend in Need
24:47 The Importance of Being Real
25:24 Meeting People Where They're At
26:45 Breaking the Stigma in the Fire Service
27:11 The Bravery of Asking for Help
33:30 Daily Practices for Mental Wellness
38:34 Supporting Your Family's Mental Health
44:29 Final Thoughts and Resources
Connect with Justin Champion
justinchampion15@gmail.comFounder of From the Ashes
Arjuna George - Fire Chief (ret)
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Arjuna George – Fire Chief (ret) Owner of Silver Arrow Coaching and Consulting, Beneath the Helmet Show, and Burnt Around the Edges author.
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