In this episode of The Other Side of the Call, In this episode of The Other Side of the Call, we sit down with retired firefighter Rob Leathen for a direct and unfiltered conversation about what the job gives, what it takes, and what it can quietly erode over time.
Rob reflects on his path into the fire service, the culture that shaped his identity, and the cumulative toll of repeated exposure to trauma. What begins as a conversation about service quickly moves into something deeper: the pressure to perform, the expectation to be strong, and the reality of what happens when those expectations collide with human limits.
Rob shares his experience with cognitive decline, leaving the job, and a suicide attempt that became a turning point. Without sensationalizing the moment, he walks through the mindset that led him there, the role stigma played, and the impact his colleague’s death had on his decision to live.
The conversation explores moral injury, shame, and the often invisible aftermath of critical incidents. It also looks at what healing can actually involve, including EMDR, equine therapy, and ketamine-assisted treatment, and what it means to rebuild a life and identity outside of the uniform.
This episode is not about isolated moments. It is about accumulation, identity, and the long-term impact of a life spent in service.
Guest
Rob Leathen, retired firefighter, artist, advocate
IG: rleathen
Web: www.leathen.ca
Resources Discussed in This Episode
If you or someone you know needs support, help is available.
• 988 Suicide Crisis Helpline (Canada)
Call or text 988
• Boots on the Ground
Peer support for first responders and families
https://bootsontheground.ca
• Wings of Change Peer Support
Support for public safety personnel and families
wingsofchange.ca
• I’ve Got Your Back 911
A charity with awesome merch supporting the mental health of first responders across Canada and (among other things) the creators of a new APP connecting first responders and their families to help at the touch of a button
ivegotyourback911.com
Helena McJagger – UnINKcorn Tattoos
IG & TT: un.ink.corn_tattoos
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) questionnaire: https://www.publichealthontario.ca/-/media/documents/a/2020/adverse-childhood-experiences-report.pdf (please note: I chose one at random from a recognized source but the podcast has no affiliation with this organization or body.