About this episode

Scott and Dan discuss the gut-brain connection and its implications for first responder health with Dr. Heather Armstrong.

Scott and Dan welcome Dr. Heather Armstrong for a wide-ranging conversation on the gut–brain connection and its growing relevance for first responder health. Dr. Armstrong explains how the research team—working closely with Andrew Martin and frontline agencies—is uncovering meaningful links between gut health, sleep, physiology, and mental health. Early data suggests first responders are experiencing poorer overall health across multiple biological systems compared to the general population, reinforcing the need for earlier, more personalized interventions. The Better First Responders initiative continues to expand and is, in Dr. Armstrong’s words, only just getting started. While current efforts remain focused locally, discussions are underway to broaden participation across provinces and into North America through emerging international partnerships. Who Can Participate The study has now opened its doors widely across the first responder community. This includes: • Police services • Fire services (including wildland and community fire) • Paramedics • Correctional officers • Security personnel and related first response roles The team emphasized that correctional officers are…

People in this episode

Hosts: Scott Jones, Dan Jones

Guest: Dr. Heather Armstrong

Topics covered

• first responder wellness
• gut-brain connection
• mental health
• physiology
• sleep
• personalized interventions

Keywords

• first responders
• gut health
• mental health
• sleep
• physiology
• research
• interventions

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Better First Responders, first responder community

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