MY STORY
Hi, I'm Lynnette!
I am a retired career firefighter, a mom, a wife, a trauma coach, an educator, a speaker, and an author. These are all my titles, but they don't fully define me.
Every day I wake up driven by passion and purpose. Some days I guide and uplift my coaching clients; other days I educate and train others on the importance of support and crisis intervention. And some days I'm just an ordinary mom and wife juggling guilt and housework. But no matter the role, I show up each day as a powerful human striving to make an impact.
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I spent 14 years as a full-time career firefighter—becoming a legend as the first and only female in the department. It took me many years to acknowledge the magnitude of that accomplishment, but now I embrace it.
Like many first responders I suffered psychological injuries in the workplace—but not from the calls I responded to. My trauma stemmed from intense bullying, harassment and discrimination by the men in authority positions that were supposed to protect me. My leaders. My brothers. ​
After more than a decade of suffering in silence, and holding secrets to keep others comfortable, I discovered that I was merely existing in a constant state of trauma. I wasn't truly living or thriving. I was miserable, in pain, isolated, and struggling. It was during this time that I began my healing journey, uncovering and confronting the painful truths about what I had endured, and suppressed throughout my life.
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I reached a point in my healing journey where I came to a standstill; a moment of profound awakening. I couldn't heal in the place that broke me. As painful as it was, it opened my eyes—I had to leave the career I loved in order to be open, honest, and tell my story. I owed that to myself.
Everything that was meant to tear me down and break me apart ultimately made me stronger. That's what "post-traumatic growth" is. As painful as my experiences were, I wouldn't be the woman I am today without them. And now, I have the opportunity to share my story, to inspire and empower others who have faced similar wounds.
I don't have a secret; I have a story. A powerful story of overcoming psychological injuries, reclaiming my power, and standing firmly in my truth.
I would be honoured to share my story with your agency, organization, podcast or event. To book a speaking engagement, please email me with details.
