Dena Ali - Leading with Heart: Firefighter Wellness, HRV, and the Power of Peer Support

Can we build resilience without ignoring the realities of trauma? Can hope truly come out of darkness?

In this compelling episode, we sit down with Dena Ali, Battalion Chief, mental health researcher, peer support pioneer, and author of the powerful new book Hope Out of Darkness.

Dena shares her journey from firefighter to national mental health advocate, the science behind stress and suicide in the fire service, and why data, compassion, and leadership must work together to change our culture.

We dive into: 📖 The story behind her book Hope Out of Darkness 🧠 How trauma rewires our brains—and how we take back control ❤️ Why Heart Rate Variability (HRV) is a game-changer for firefighter wellness 🔥 How peer support can work if done right 💡 Rea ...