Welcome to another compelling episode of The First Responder Playbook! Today, Brent sits down with Mr. Whiskey, host of the Couple O’ Nukes podcast—a U.S. Navy veteran, speaker, and modern-day preacher with a mission to turn trauma into transformation. Together, they dive deep into the unique challenges faced by first responders and military members: the impacts of shift work, the struggles with mental health, and the critical importance of supportive leadership. Mr. Whiskey shares raw, powerful stories from his own life and his father’s 25 years as a police officer, peeling back the curtain on the unseen emotional toll this work can take. From navigating a controlling and turbulent upbringing to enduring the grueling realities of the Navy’s nuclear program during the pandemic, he opens up about how those experiences shaped his path toward healing and helping others. Brent and Mr. Whiskey discuss everything from burnout and substance abuse in law enforcement, to the politics of military promotions, to what it really means to build a life—and an identity—outside the uniform. Along the way, they explore the healing power of storytelling, why leadership matters more than ever, and the inspiration behind the Couple O’ Nukes podcast, which now covers everything from suicide prevention to self-improvement and community-building. If you want gritty wisdom, heartfelt honesty, and takeaways for both life and leadership, this episode is one you won’t want to miss.