From Badge to Breakthrough: A First Responder’s Journey Through Addiction & PTSD

In this powerful episode of Addiction Uncovered, host Jill Nastase sits down with Davin Cole, a retired law enforcement officer, to discuss addiction and recovery within the first responder community.

Davin shares how a line-of-duty injury led to long-term opioid use, how PTSD quietly shaped his addiction, and why asking for help can feel impossible for those trained to protect others. This conversation sheds light on stigma, trauma exposure, and the cultural barriers that prevent first responders from seeking support — and what recovery can truly look like on the other side.

If you or someone you love works in emergency services, this episode is essential listening.

References: Addiction Uncovered – Hosted by Jill Nastase Davin Cole – First Responder Advocate & Speaker National Institute on Drug Abuse – https://www.drugabuse.gov Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration – https://www.samhsa.gov

American Psychological Association – https://www.apa.org

This is a Hurrdat ONE Production. Hurrdat ONE is a podcast network and digital media production company based in Omaha, NE. Find more podcasts on the Hurrdat ONE Network by going to ⁠Hurrdat ONE Website⁠ or visit ⁠Hurrdat ONE YouTube Channel⁠!

Timestamps: 00:00:00 – Intro 00:00:55 – The Start of Davin’s Addiction 00:08:14 – Asking for Help as a First Responder 00:15:20 – PTSD & the Push to Sobriety 00:24:51 – Advice for Sober Living 00:28:23 – Current Community Work