🎧 Disclaimer Statement (to be read or inserted at the start of each episode): The views, opinions, and experiences shared in this episode belong solely to the guest and do not necessarily reflect those of the 8158 Podcast, its hosts, sponsors, or affiliates. The stories shared are based on personal experiences and perspectives. While every effort is made to present information responsibly, the podcast does not verify or guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any statements made by guests. This content is provided for informational and storytelling purposes only and should not be interpreted as factual claims, professional advice, or official representation of any organization. Listener discretion is advised. ——————- This week on the 8158 Podcast: Stories of Sacrifice, we sit down with Dr. Joy Hutchinson, a former New Orleans paramedic turned trauma and grief counselor for first responders. With over a decade of experience in emergency medicine and a PhD in Counseling Education and Supervision, Dr. Hutchinson now dedicates her work to supporting first responders through 1:1 counseling, training leadership teams, and advocating for policy change in mental health care. In this episode, Joy shares her powerful journey from the ambulance to advocacy—discussing the realities of trauma in the field, the need for better support systems, and how her research and training are shaping the future of first responder wellness. 💙 A must-listen for anyone who serves, supports, or stands behind our heroes. 💙 Support the mission: Donate to the William H. “Bill” Butler Jr. Foundation: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com/donate 🌐 Website: 🔗 https://www.8158podcast.com (https://www.8158podcast.com/) 🎙 Want to be a guest? Schedule an interview here: 🔗 https://8158podcast.com/contact-us 📢 Join our community & get exclusive content: 🔗 http://Patreon.com/8158podcast (http://patreon.com/8158podcast) Joy's Bio: Dr. Joy Hutchinson is a licensed professional counselor in Tennessee and a former paramedic whose work bridges counseling, education, and first responder wellness. At West Virginia University, she teaches and conducts research focused on culturally responsive and trauma-informed care for firefighters, EMTs, law enforcement officers, dispatchers, and other emergency personnel. Her current projects examine help-seeking behaviors among EMTs, cost-benefit analyses of preemptive mental health programs, and leadership training to reduce stigma and improve early intervention within rural and volunteer departments. She is also studying current approaches and trainings for counselors who work with first responders, and she is developing a West Virginia First Responder Mental Health Database, a statewide resource connecting responders with culturally competent providers. Dr. Hutchinson is the administrator of the First Responder PTSD Research Facebook page, a hub for sharing research updates, resources, and outreach opportunities for the first responder community. 🔗 Connect with Dr. Joy Hutchinson: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joy-hutchinson-ph-d-lpc-mhsp-ncc-cctp-ii-emt-p-350ab2181/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/emscares 📧 Email: mailto:joy.hutchinson@mail.wvu.edu