Too busy for quiet time this morning? Spirit running on empty before your day even starts? This short daily podcast helps you reconnect with God without rearranging your whole schedule. Join Dr. Bart Leger each weekday morning for a few minutes of Scripture, real-life encouragement, and a simple way to apply God’s truth—right where you are. Perfect for your morning routine, commute, or any moment you can pause and breathe to help you reset your heart and refocus your day, no matter how full ...
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Do you collapse after a grueling shift, too drained to enjoy dinner with family, or struggle to comfort a coworker after a tough call? As a retired first responder with 25+ years in traumatic stress, I understand. I’ve helped thousands navigate high-pressure jobs without treating life like a 911 call. Each week, you’ll hear unfiltered stories from those who’ve faced loss, trauma, and burnout yet found hope. Together, we’ll cover resilience, stress management, peer counseling, and more to hel ...
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The Chaplain Cafe Podcast with Chaplain Bart J. Leger
Chaplain Bart J. Leger: Life Coach, Writer and Blogger
Are you ready to join a learning community of chaplains from around the world serving First Responders? Tune in as Chaplain Bart Leger provides insights, ideas and practical tips you can use today in your Chaplain ministry.
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Burnout isn’t holy—and exhaustion isn’t a badge of honor. Today’s devotion is your reminder that rest is a gift from God, not a reward you have to earn. Do you feel guilty for slowing down, like rest is something you’ll get to “one day”? You’re not alone. We live in a world that glorifies busy—but Jesus invites us to something better. In Mark 6, ev…
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You’re not barely accepted or just tolerated—you’re chosen. Today’s devotion reminds you that God picked you on purpose and loves you without hesitation. Ever feel like you belong—but only because someone let you in out of kindness? It’s easy to believe we’re only accepted conditionally—by people and by God. But Ephesians 1 tells a different story:…
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When life feels repetitive and unrewarding, it’s tempting to quit. Today’s devotion reminds you—and reassures you—that God honors those who keep showing up, even when it’s hard. Have you ever wondered if all your quiet efforts are really making a difference? I’ve been there. I’ve felt the silence, the slow progress, the unseen labor. But Galatians …
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You don’t have to hustle to prove your worth. Today’s devotion reminds you that real strength is found not in striving, but in stillness with God. What if the strongest thing you could do today was stop and be still? In a world that glorifies hustle and productivity, God invites us into something deeper—and far more powerful: rest. Isaiah 30 tells …
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Ever feel like no matter how hard you try, it’s just not enough? Today’s devotion reminds you that your weakness doesn’t disqualify you—it makes room for God’s strength. Tired of trying to measure up and still feeling like you fall short? You’re not alone. We all hit moments where we realize we’re not enough for what life demands. But the gospel of…
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Words matter more than we think. Today’s devotion reminds you how powerful your voice can be—and how to use it to speak life into the people around you. Have you ever wished you could take your words back? We’ve all said things we regret. But Proverbs 18 tells us that our words hold real power—power to build up or tear down, to heal or to harm. And…
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Fireworks and flags are great—but the deepest freedom can’t be found in a nation. Today’s devotion reminds you that true freedom starts in your heart, and Jesus is the one who brings it. What if you could be free on the outside—but still feel trapped on the inside? On this Independence Day, we’re reminded of the blessings of freedom. But real, last…
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Feeling overlooked or forgotten? Today’s devotion reminds you that even when the world passes you by, God never does—He sees you fully. Ever feel like no one really sees what you’re going through? Maybe you’re giving, serving, showing up—but it still feels like you’re in the background. The story of Hagar in Genesis 16 offers powerful hope for anyo…
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Woke up carrying the weight of yesterday? Today’s devotion reminds you that God’s mercy is new—right now—and you don’t have to earn a fresh start. Ever wish you could hit reset after a rough day, a harsh word, or a moment you regret? God’s mercy doesn’t run on your performance—it runs on His faithfulness. And Scripture promises that His mercy shows…
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When you can’t see what God is doing, it’s easy to assume He’s doing nothing. But today’s devotion reminds you that His plans are still good—even when they’re hidden. Feel like you’re stuck in the unknown, just waiting for God to show you the next step? You’re not alone. God’s people have been in that place before—and in Jeremiah 29:11, He spoke in…
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Trying to hold everything together is exhausting. Today’s devotion reminds you that surrender isn’t failure—it’s faith. Do you feel like the weight of your world rests entirely on your shoulders? You plan, you prepare, you control—but still feel anxious and overwhelmed. The truth is, peace doesn’t come from perfect outcomes. It comes from trusting …
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If you’ve ever wondered whether you’ve drifted too far from God, this episode is for you. Discover the kind of grace that runs toward you, not away. Have you ever felt like you’ve gone too far for God to want you back? Whether it’s been weeks or years since you’ve truly talked to Him, there’s good news: You’re not beyond His reach. In fact, He’s al…
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When the storm hits, it’s easy to feel like God is far away. But today’s devotion reminds you that Jesus is right there in the boat—and He’s not afraid of what you’re facing. Feeling like your life is caught in a storm right now? Whether you’re overwhelmed by anxiety, pain, or the weight of the unknown, you’re not drifting alone. Jesus didn’t promi…
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Joy doesn’t just show up in big moments—it’s often hidden in the everyday. Today’s devotion helps you find contentment and delight in the little things. Feel like you’re stuck in the daily grind with nothing to smile about? We often think joy is something we’ll feel later—when we reach a goal, fix a problem, or finally catch a break. But Scripture …
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When the future feels uncertain, you don’t need a clearer plan—you need a deeper trust. Today’s devotion helps you let go of control and lean into God’s guidance. Worried about what’s coming next? Feeling stuck between what is and what might be? Whether you’re waiting on answers, facing big decisions, or simply overwhelmed by what tomorrow might br…
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Anxiety doesn’t wait for a quiet moment—and neither does God’s peace. Today’s devotion reminds you that peace isn’t passive—it’s protection. What if peace isn’t something you have to chase—but something God has already stationed around your heart? When worry takes over, it can feel like your only option is to try harder to stay calm. But the Bible …
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Tired of trying to keep up with everything—including your faith? Today’s devotion reminds you that Jesus offers rest, not more pressure. Ever feel like even your spiritual life is exhausting? You’re doing your best—but it still feels like too much. Too many responsibilities, too many expectations, and not enough left in your tank. You wonder if Jes…
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Feeling invisible? Today’s episode is a reminder that God sees you, knows you by name, and calls you His—right in the middle of your everyday. Ever feel like no one really sees you—not the real you? You’re doing your best to show up, to care for others, to keep it together… but deep down, you feel overlooked. Unnoticed. Like you’re fading into the …
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You’ve been putting it off—again. But today’s devotion reminds you that God rejoices in your small beginnings, and now is the perfect time to start. What’s one thing you’ve been putting off because it doesn’t feel big enough, polished enough, or “spiritual” enough? You keep waiting for the perfect conditions—but they never come. And now you feel st…
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Trusting that God has everything under control when we’re freaking out over our latest catastrophe is really tough. But today’s devotion cracks the code to keeping it all together when life seems to be falling apart. Does your life ever feel like it’s one more crisis away from collapse? The deadlines, the disruptions, the disappointments—you’re hol…
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Too busy for quiet time? Spirit running on empty before your day even starts? This short trailer introduces Daily Devotions for Busy Lives, a weekday podcast designed to help you pause, reconnect with God’s Word, and reset your heart—no matter how full your schedule gets. In just a few minutes a day, Dr. Bart Leger shares Scripture-based encouragem…
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When the Job Follows You Home: The Hidden Signs of Traumatic Stress
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9:01Feeling “off” but can’t explain why? This episode unpacks the hidden signs of long-term traumatic stress in first responders and frontline workers—and what you can do about it. Are you more irritable, distant, or emotionally numb than you used to be? You might think it’s just burnout, but what if it’s something deeper—like long-term traumatic stres…
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Coming home after a tough shift and still feeling “on the clock”? Today’s episode breaks down practical strategies to create boundaries between work and home, helping first responders reclaim personal time and be fully present for what matters most. Have you ever felt like work stress follows you home? It’s all too common for first responders and f…
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Do negative thoughts play over and over in your head after a tough call, wondering what you could’ve done differently? It’s easy to fall into a cycle of self-criticism that erodes your confidence and makes it hard to move forward. That nagging voice in your head can feel like a constant weight pulling you down. But what if there was a way to break …
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Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the constant demands of the job? The fast pace, critical decisions, and unpredictable nature of frontline work can add up, even when we think we’re in control. Frontline work brings intense pressure, and managing stress is essential. In today’s episode, you’ll learn a quick, adaptable mindfulness technique that you…
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Are you equipped to recognize and prevent suicide in those around you? Many people miss the signs of mental health struggles and feel helpless when loved ones are at risk. This episode dives into actionable ways you can make a difference. Shayna Klassen, National Training Director for QPR Institute, shares her journey from addiction and recovery to…
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Growing up in a family rooted in law enforcement and education, Alan Cormier shares how his journey led him to advocate for mental health support within the first responder community. From impactful personal experiences to founding the nonprofit “With You,” Alan’s story is one of resilience and community care. What are the signs that burnout and st…
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Managing stress in high-pressure careers can feel overwhelming. Today’s guest, Dr. Anna Fitch Courie, Chief Wellbeing Officer at Clemson University, shares practical strategies to help you stay mentally and physically healthy in demanding environments. Do you often feel overwhelmed by the constant demands of your high-stress job? Many professionals…
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Are you struggling with burnout, stress, or feeling overwhelmed as a first responder? Retired firefighter paramedic Matthew Matty Fiorenza joins us to share his journey through PTSD and anxiety and how he’s now helping first responders find healing and support. Tune in for practical steps to protect your mental health. Are you feeling overwhelmed b…
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Are you anxious about what life will be like after you retire? In this episode, Dr. Medina Baumgart, author of the book Surviving Retirement: Finding Purpose and Fulfillment Beyond the Badge, shares practical strategies to help you survive and thrive in retirement. Have you ever wondered what life will look like after you hang up your uniform for t…
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Supporting Your Family While Protecting Others
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42:43Join Bart Leger as he interviews Tiffany Atalla, a trauma therapist specializing in first responder family support. Learn how Tiffany combines her personal experience and professional expertise to strengthen first responder families and provide innovative trauma care techniques. What does it take to support first responders and their families in th…
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Integrating Physical and Spiritual Health
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54:38Navigating the intense challenges of being a first responder requires more than just physical strength. Matt Domyancic, a chaplain and former SWAT officer, shares his unique approach to wellness and spiritual care, blending fitness, mindfulness, and proactive support. Are you facing the pressures of a high-stress career and wondering how to maintai…
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The 3 "F's" for Mental Wellness with Dr. David Weill
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39:27Are you struggling to leave the emotional weight of your job at work? Join Dr. David Weill, former director of Stanford’s Center for Advanced Lung Disease, as he shares how to manage the mental and emotional strain of high-stress careers using his three F’s method—Family, Friends, and Faith. Do you find it difficult to separate your work stress fro…
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Your Survival Guide for Navigating Department Politics
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18:34Navigating workplace politics can be a minefield. In this episode, discover practical tips to maintain your integrity and thrive in your role without getting sucked into the drama of organizational politics. Ever feel like you’re caught in the crossfire of workplace politics? Navigating the tricky waters of organizational politics can be overwhelmi…
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Ever faced a split-second decision that goes against your values or witnessed a tragedy you couldn’t prevent? Join us as we explore moral injury, its impact on mental health, and practical strategies to cope. Have you ever made a split-second decision that went against your values or witnessed something that left you feeling deeply conflicted? If y…
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10 Strategies for Dealing with Missing Family Events
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8:39Missing family events due to shift work can be tough. Discover practical strategies to stay connected with loved ones, even when you can’t be there in person, from using technology to creating flexible celebrations. Are you struggling to stay connected with your family due to the demands of shift work or being on-call? Missing out on family events …
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How to Deal With Generational Differences in the Workplace
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18:44Generational clashes at work can be a major headache. Today’s episode of “Surviving Your Shift” dives into why Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z often clash and how to turn those differences into your team’s biggest strength. SHOW NOTES: (NOTE: you can utilize this exact same format for your weekly episode promo emails, too!) Parts in YEL…
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Starting a career as a first responder is tough, but knowing these ten things before you run into trouble can make all the difference. Tune in to episode 15 to learn how to stay healthy, avoid common rookie pitfalls, and thrive in your career. What are the ten things every rookie needs to hear? Starting out as a first responder, you face intense ch…
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Stop Trying to Balance Work and Home Life. Here's Why
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15:19Feeling like you're constantly juggling work and home life, but still ending up feeling guilty and stretched too thin? Still trying to balance it all? If you're tired of feeling guilty and exhausted, it's time to explore a more effective approach to work-life balance. Do you ever feel like you're juggling too many balls, trying to give equal time t…
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5 Things You Need to Do Before You Retire
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21:18Are you looking forward to retirement but wondering if you’re fully prepared? The thought of retirement can be both exciting and scary. Bart, our host, has successfully made the transition into retirement, and he will share how you can, too. Are you worried about navigating the transition to retirement smoothly? Don’t be that person who gets to ret…
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Dealing with emotional pain and suicidal thoughts is incredibly challenging, but this episode offers hope and practical steps if you are facing these struggles. Listen now as Bart provides guidance and support for you if you’re overwhelmed by the pressures of the job and life. Are you thinking of suicide, feeling like the weight of the world is on …
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Can’t Turn Off Intrusive Memories? Listen to This
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20:55Intrusive memories and images from the job can be a daily struggle for first responders. In this episode, Dr. Bart J. Leger shares practical strategies to manage these persistent thoughts and reclaim your peace of mind. Ever find yourself haunted by intrusive memories and images from the job that keep popping up when you’re just driving down the ro…
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Is There Such a Thing as Psychological Body Armor?
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40:33Being a first responder or working on the front lines means you’re facing stuff most people can’t imagine. Today, I’m talking with Dr. George Everly, Jr with ICISF, as he discusses how to develop what he calls Psychological Body Armor. Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress in your frontline career? You might be missing crucial techniques to manage …
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Can the Department Chaplain Help Me Even Though I’m Not Religious?
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50:07You may have never thought your agency’s chaplain had anything to offer you. But today’s guest, Jim Bontrager may surprise you with how down-to-earth and practical your chaplain can be when you really need them. Have you ever wondered what a chaplain’s good for? You’re not the first to think your organization’s chaplain can’t help you because you’r…
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How Can I Make a Difference as a First Responder?
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44:55Are you wondering if you’re still making a difference as a first responder or other frontline professional? Join me as I sit down with Mike Baldwin, a 20+ year veteran first responder as he shares how to know you’re making a difference. What does it take to maintain humanity and empathy as a first responder? Many first responders reach a point in t…
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How to Build a Bullet-Proof Mind with Lt. Col. Dave Grossman
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56:13In this episode of Surviving Your Shift, Lt. Col. Dave Grossman, a pioneer of the "bulletproof mind," talks about mental resilience and self-control for first responders. Join us as he shares insights from his extensive experience in law enforcement training, focusing on how to thrive both on duty and beyond. Are you constantly jumping from one eme…
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5 Steps to Reignite Your Passion for the Career You Used to Love
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18:42Rediscover the joy and passion in your career with today's episode of Surviving Your Shift. Dive deep into practical strategies for overcoming burnout and rekindling that initial spark that drew you to your job. Feeling drained and disconnected from the job you once loved? You're not alone. The daily grind can often leave us feeling burnt out, sapp…
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Does every workday feel like you're just going through the motions, drained of the passion that once fueled you? In this episode, you’ll discover 3 powerful strategies to rekindle your drive and reignite the fire within - renewing your sense of purpose and enthusiasm for the career you've chosen. When was the last time you felt really engaged and m…
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If you’ve ever worried about life after retirement, today’s guest can help. After 21 years in the Coast Guard, Kenneth Macgregor was medically retired, and he’s here to share his journey of adapting to this major life transition and how he found a new purpose. Are you struggling to find purpose and identity after a major life transition? For many v…
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Stop Letting Rotating Shifts Rob You of Sleep
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45:54Sleep impacts every aspect of our lives, but many struggle to get quality rest, especially shift workers. Today’s guide, Dr. Phillip Conner, discusses common sleep issues, provides practical tips for better sleep hygiene, and explains how insufficient sleep can dangerously impair performance. Are you having trouble feeling rested and alert during t…
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