Responder Resilience

Law Enforcement Episodes

13
March 26, 2025

Building The Bulletproof Mind with Lt. Col. Dave Grossman | S5 E13

Tune in for a compelling episode featuring Lt. Col. Dave Grossman, a distinguished former Army Ranger and leading expert on combat psychology and resilience. This engaging conversation reveals essential techniques for cultivating mental toughness and effectively managing trauma responses in the high-pressure environments confronted by first responders.
Guest: Dave Grossman
11
March 12, 2025

Clinician’s Guide to Building Trust with Law Enforcement | S5 E11

This episode explores the vital connection between mental health and law enforcement. Dr. Medina Baumgart shares insights on the critical role of embedded clinicians, the mental health challenges retired officers face, and the importance of peer support programs.
10
March 5, 2025

Clinician's Guide to Peer Support and Officer Wellness | S5 E10

Join us for a compelling dialogue for clinicians and savvy first responders, with Captain Mike Fumiatti of the New Haven Police Department as we dig into the importance of police peer support in law enforcement.
2
Jan. 8, 2025

Clinician’s Guide to Working with Unique Fire And Law Populations | S5 E2

In this episode of our clinician masterclass series, we dive into the unique challenges faced by wildland firefighters and specialized law enforcement units like the Border Patrol, FBI, US Marshals, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco & Firearms. Join psychologist Dr. Robbie Adler-Tapia as she shares essential strategies and techniques for addressing the trauma and stress experienced by these responders.
45
Nov. 7, 2024

Clinician’s Guide to Psychological Autopsies with Elizabeth Pol | S4 E45

In this episode of our Clinician Masterclass Series, we explore the sensitive topic of Suicide Psychological Autopsies with Elizabeth Pol, M.A., founder of Resilient Heroes, NFP, and a Chicago Police Officer. Elizabeth discusses the methodologies involved in conducting psychological autopsies, emphasizing the importance of privacy and dignity for the deceased and their families.
Guest: Liz Pol
41
Oct. 9, 2024

Vinnie Montez—Law, Order, and Laughter | S4 E41

In this episode, we talk with Vinnie Montez, a retired Colorado Sheriff's Office commander and current Public Information Officer who has made a name for himself as a nationally touring stand-up comedian. Vinnie shares stories from his dual career paths, illustrating how humor has been a valuable tool in law enforcement. We delve into his documentary, "Vinnie-isms: The Story of the Cop Comedian," which chronicles his journey and has been submitted to multiple film festivals. The discussion also touches on Vinnie's future plans, including the National Heroes Off Duty Comedy Tour in 2025 and performances for the U.S. Military in Poland, showcasing his unique blend of comedy and service. This episode offers a deep dive into how Vinnie's experiences in both fields have shaped his identity and outlook.
Guest: Vinnie Montez
36
Sept. 4, 2024

Eric Reynolds—KetoFiveO, Cops and Campers | S4 E36

Join us in this wide-ranging episode as we sit down with Eric Reynolds, a retired Boynton Beach police officer, sports nutritionist, and personal trainer, to explore his remarkable journey. We converse about Eric's transition from law enforcement to health and wellness advocacy. We explore the founding of KetoFiveO and Cops and Campers, two initiatives Eric launched to address the unique needs of first responders. What inspired these ventures, and how do they make a difference?
Guest: Eric Reynolds
35
Aug. 28, 2024

Clinician’s Guide to Police Wellness with Dr. John Violanti | S4 E35

In this information-packed masterclass episode for clinicians and savvy first responders, we sit down with Dr. John M. Violanti, PhD, a Full Research Professor in the Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health at the University at Buffalo, N.Y. Dr. Violanti brings a wealth of knowledge from his 23-year tenure with the New York State Police, where he served in various capacities including trooper, criminal investigator, and coordinator of the State Police Psychological Assistance Program (EAP). We discuss the pressing issue of health among police officers in America, and Dr. Violanti's insights into the psychological toll of policing, examining both the immediate and long-term impacts of stress and trauma on officers' mental well-being.
Guest: John Violanti
33
Aug. 14, 2024

Kristofor Healey—Stoic Strategies for Success | S4 E33

In this essential episode, we sit down with Kristofor Healey, a former Special Agent renowned for spearheading the largest tele-fraud case in U.S. history. We discuss Healey’s transition from law enforcement to motivational speaking, and how he intertwined his experiences with the timeless wisdom of Stoicism. We explore the practical applications of Stoic philosophy in high-stress environments guided by Kristofor’s expertise and real-world experiences.
28
July 10, 2024

Bridget Truxillo—Legal Lifeline for LEOs | S4 E28

We invite you to join our insightful conversation with Bridget Truxillo, JD, the CEO and Founder of Lady Law Shield Law Firm. Bridget’s journey is not only inspiring but deeply rooted in her experiences as a former Deputy Sheriff, where she served in Patrol, Undercover Narcotics, and the SWAT Team. Her unique perspective sheds light on the challenges and decisions faced by law enforcement officers (LEOs) that can have significant legal ramifications.
24
June 13, 2024

Dr. Olivia Johnson—Fatal 10: Deadly Factors Behind Officer Suicides | S4 E24

In this dynamic episode encore, Stacy and David sit down with the remarkable Dr. Olivia Johnson, Founder of the Blue Wall Institute. They dive into one of the most pressing issues in law enforcement today: police officer suicide. The conversation catapults into the deep, dark waters of why so many officers are taking their own lives. Dr. Johnson unveils her groundbreaking “Fatal 10” – the ten most common factors contributing to these tragic decisions. This episode isn't just informative; it’s a call to action, urging listeners to rethink and reshape the mental health landscape for those who serve and protect. Plus Olivia updates us on her new project, Shepherds & Sheepdogs, LTD.
20
May 15, 2024

Hi Nguyen—Lead, Don't Bleed: Preventing Supervisor Burnout | S4 E20

Join us as we converse with Hi Nguyen, a former officer of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police turned Leadership Coach, exploring the critical role of leadership training for frontline supervisors. We'll uncover how effective leadership techniques not only enhance team performance, but also bolster mental health and boost retention rates.
Guest: Hi Nguyen
17
April 24, 2024

Unboxing The Cop Box: Brotherhood, Healing, and Growth | S4 E17

On this compelling episode, we reunite three distinguished law enforcement veterans: retired Chief John Monaghan, retired Chief Douglas Wyman, and retired New Hampshire State Police Sergeant James Steinmetz. These three friends, previously featured in the impactful film "Inside the Box," come together once more to delve into profound discussions on camaraderie, support, and the journey of healing and growth following service-related trauma.
15
April 10, 2024

Rob Rudewicz—Duty, Depression, and Deliverance | S4 E15

This episode isn't just about hardships; it's about resilience. Join us as we uncover the strength of the human spirit, as seen through the journey of retired Hartford Police Department Captain Rob Rudewicz, sharing his career and personal battles with addiction, depression, and surviving stage 4 pancreatic cancer. Rob highlights traditional and non-traditional police roles, including serving as acting chief. He discusses his contribution to "The Expanding Man Chronicles," showcasing personal transformation and recovery.
Guest: Rob Rudewicz
13
March 27, 2024

John Kelly—Infidelity: Temptation and Transformation | S4 E13

Join us in this unprecedented behind-the-badge episode as we focus on the heartbreak of infidelity with law enforcement veteran, author, and coach John Kelly.
Guest: John Kelly
9
Feb. 28, 2024

Ernie Stevens: The Power of De-escalation in Law Enforcement | S4 E9

Join us for an engaging episode where we explore mental health and de-escalation with Ernest Stevens, author of the best-selling book "Mental Health and De-escalation: A Guide for Law Enforcement Professionals.”
Guest: Ernie Stevens
7
Feb. 14, 2024

Jason Harney: Movies That Matter for Police and Their Families | S4 E7

In this episode of Responder Resilience, we delve into the world of impactful filmmaking with Jason Harney, a retired Police Sergeant turned Documentary Filmmaker.
Guest: Jason Harney
1
Jan. 3, 2024

David Berez—A Resilient Life: Thriving Beyond Trauma | S4 E1

In this episode of our podcast, we had the privilege of interviewing David Berez, a retired Police Officer and Drug Recognition Expert with over 33 years of experience in Emergency Services. David shares his insights on Resiliency, Officer Mental Health, Transition into Retirement with Purpose, and Positive Psychology Tools, all from his own personal experiences.
Guest: David Berez
52
Dec. 27, 2023

Jason Palamara and Barbara Rubel —A Conversation on Living Blue | S3 E52

We dive into the world of law enforcement wellness with special guests Jason Palamara, a retired NYPD Cold Case Homicide detective, and Barbara Rubel, an acclaimed author and thanatologist. Their book, Living Blue, explores their personal experiences and evidence-based practices to improve officer wellness and prevent officer suicide.
49
Dec. 6, 2023

Clee Tilman—Breakdown on the Beat: Responder Divorce | S3 E49

🎙️ David and guest co-host Laura G. Hanson are joined by Clee Tilman, Podcast Host of Black & Blue and Law Enforcement Officer, who dives into the unique challenges faced by first responders in relationships.
Guest: Clee Tilman
48
Nov. 29, 2023

Chief John Monaghan—Breaking Free From "The Man Box" | S3 E48

Join us on this powerful episode as we sit down with John Monaghan III, a retired police chief with an inspiring story.
44
Nov. 1, 2023

Edie Darling—From Peace Officer to Ambassador of Peace | S3 E44

Join us as we dive into the inspiring journey of Edie Darling, a retired law enforcement sergeant and community leader. Discover how her commitment to service and compassion has made her the Ambassador of Peace.
Guest: Edie Darling
42
Oct. 18, 2023

Laura Hanson: The Path to Peak Performance | S3 E42

Join us in the latest episode of Responder Resilience as we sit down with guest Laura G. Hanson, a Certified High Performance Coach and wellness coordinator with the Virginia State Police. We delve into the world of first responders and their high-performance mindset.
41
Oct. 11, 2023

Michael Laidler—Thriving in Corrections and Beyond | S3 E41

Looking to level up your career in law enforcement or corrections? In this episode of Responder Resilience Podcast, we have a special guest, Michael Laidler, a Professional Speaker and Best-Selling Author.