Gator Freezer Boots in the South Pole: Elizabeth Ecklund on Antarctic Firefighting and Supporting First Responders
🎙 This Real Working People
Guest: Elizabeth Ecklund, IFSAC II Firefighter, MSW, BSN, LSWAC, RN
Host: Isaac Ransom, CMO of Epik Workwear
Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/bozZeoF106g
About the Episode
In the very first episode of Real Working People, we meet someone who knows a thing or two about extreme work. Elizabeth Ecklund has served as an Aircraft Rescue Firefighter (ARFF) at McMurdo Station and the South Pole in Antarctica. Now, she uses that experience to support other frontliners as a therapist for first responders and medical professionals.
What You'll Learn
- The reality of working at the South Pole
- Why gear matters - especially insulated boots built for deep cold
- The emotional toll of isolation, firefighting, and public service
- What resources exist for first responders seeking mental health support
- How Elizabeth transitioned from the fireline to frontline therapy
🧊 Featured Gear: Epik Gator Safety Boot
Elizabeth shares how the Epik Gator Boots held up during the extremes of Antarctic weather, because when you're walking on solid ice, your gear can't fail.
🧠 Mental Health in the Trades
"Just because you wear a uniform doesn't mean you don't carry the weight." Elizabeth opens up about the mental health challenges facing EMTs, firefighters, and healthcare workers—and why many still hesitate to seek help.
📺 Watch the Full Episode
🎥 YouTube: https://youtu.be/bozZeoF106g
🧭 Episode Timestamps:
Use these markers to jump around key moments:
- 0:10 – Introductions
- 2:30 – Starting in Fire
- 10:54 – Life at McMurdo Station
- 15:00 – Therapy on the Ice
- 28:49 – The Reality of Work at the South Pole (Gear + Gator Boots)
- 43:50 – How Her Time on the Ice Informs Her Therapy Practice
- 45:44 – Mental Health Challenges in Fire & EMS
- 49:37 – "I Don't Want Therapy…"
- 53:00 – Final Thoughts
🧵 Want More Stories from the Front Lines?
Follow Epik Workwear to hear more Real Working People, a limited interview series with tradespeople, field workers, medical pros, and everyday heroes doing extraordinary work.
