About Ben O’Brien

About Ben O’Brien

As a kid, I thrived on being outdoors and constantly moving. Dyslexia made school a challenge, so I followed my instincts and energy wherever they led me. Through high school, college, and my early 20s, I drifted, exploring without much direction.

At 32, I joined the fire service and found purpose for the first time. Over 26 years as a firefighter and paramedic, I worked alongside incredible people, navigating challenges big and small. That experience shaped who I am and how I see the world.

Over time, I recognized a specific need among emergency responders: practical tools to build resilience, manage stress, and handle transitions — whether on the job, into retirement, or in everyday life. In 2018, I launched The Functional Man (now Vital Responder) to meet that need. My goal is to help people understand that flourishing isn’t just possible — it’s within reach.

I love guiding people to their own answers. Watching someone realize they have the power to shift their perspective or take a new approach is one of the most rewarding parts of my work. Seeing that light bulb moment never gets old.

Fitness and health are essential to me, and I believe our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual selves are inextricably linked. When I’m not working, you’ll find me outdoors: paragliding, skiing, pheasant and archery elk hunting, or mountain biking or working on my weakness either in the Crossfit gym or in community with others.

Vital Responder was created to help civilians in midlife, veterans, and responders slow things down, regain clarity, and respond to their lives with intention rather than staying stuck in reaction mode. If you’re navigating a transition, feeling misaligned, or sensing that something important needs attention, let’s talk!