Audio Episodes (Click Thumbnail for Video Version)

Join us for a special episode as we sit down with Chiefs Billy Goldfeder and Frank Leeb, authors of the groundbreaking book, 30 Fires You Must Know. We revisit one of the most pivotal incidents featured in their book: the 1975 New York Telephone Fire, a landmark event that underscores the severe consequences of occupational exposure to toxic smoke. Through exclusive clips from our past interview with the late Danny Noonan (first-due truck FDNY fireman) we explore firsthand accounts of battling this formidable blaze. Sadly, Danny Noonan passed away in July after a long battle with cancer, and his courage and legacy continue to educate and inspire the firefighting community.

We sit down with Captain Jared Vermeulen of Boca Raton Fire Rescue to unpack critical components of effective leadership and management within the fire service. Captain Vermeulen shares insights from his book, The Modern Fire Officer, offering a roadmap for cultivating a thriving, supportive environment for both fire officers and their teams. Join us for an enlightening conversation that provides practical, actionable insights for fire officers striving to lead with integrity, support their teams, and excel in their roles.

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.

Daniel Sundahl, acclaimed artist and retired paramedic/firefighter, presents "Post-Traumatic Growth—Finding Benefits Within Challenges." He will take us on a visual narrative of resilience and transformation as we view and listen to his personal story of post-traumatic growth. Through a powerful narrative interwoven with his unique photo art, Daniel shares his transformative journey from battling the demons of occupational stress to finding solace and strength in his creative expressions. Join us as we explore the intersection of art, trauma, and personal growth, and learn how to find benefits within the challenges we face. ​Don't miss this opportunity to connect with Daniel's moving story and discover ways to navigate your own journey toward mental well-being.

In this episode, we sit down with Ryan Dedmon, the dedicated Outreach Director for the 911 Training Institute and a retired police dispatcher from Southern California. Ryan is on a mission to help 911 professionals recover from and grow beyond post-traumatic stress. We investigate the pressing staffing crisis affecting 911 centers across the nation, and explore the concrete tools that public safety telecommunicators can employ to manage job-related stress and burnout. Join us for a compelling conversation that challenges you to reflect on the support systems in place for our “first” first responders and consider how we can all contribute to their wellbeing.

We continue our deep dive for mental health clinicians and savvy first responders into "Clinician’s Guide to Working with Firefighters" with Part 2 featuring Dr. Kristen Wheldon. As the President and Founder of the Fire Service Psychology Association, Dr. Wheldon brings a wealth of experience and passion for enhancing the behavioral health of firefighters and their families. Join us as we explore critical topics such as the definition and development of cultural competency in the fire service, and the unique challenges clinicians face when working with this population. Dr. Wheldon shares insights on common biases that clinicians may encounter and the differences in therapeutic approaches needed for firefighters compared to the general public.

Join us for an enlightening conversation with retired Chief Lillian Bonsignore, a trailblazing 31-year veteran of the Fire Department of New York (FDNY) who served as the FDNY Chief of EMS Operations from 2019-2022, a period that encompassed the harrowing COVID-19 pandemic. As the highest-ranking Officer in the EMS command and the first female to achieve a 4-star rank in the history of FDNY, Chief Bonsignore's career is a testament to resilience, leadership, and breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field.

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?

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.

In this installment of our masterclass series for clinicians and savvy first responders, we examine the fine points of working with firefighters. Our guest, Robbie Adler-Tapia, Ph.D., Psychologist and EMDRIA Approved Consultant/Certified Therapist, will guide us through the unique challenges and stresses that firefighters face in their line of work. We will explore cultural competence and key strategies therapists can use to effectively address trauma and stress experienced by fire service personnel. Tune in for an insightful discussion on supporting this unique profession and culture.

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.

In this masterclass episode for mental health clinicians and savvy first responders, we examine the dynamics of mental health and therapy for military veterans who have transitioned into roles as first responders. Joining us is our resident EMDR trauma therapist Stacy Raymond, PsyD, an expert in mental health for this extraordinary group. The daughter of a retired police officer and US Marine, Stacy brings a wealth of personal and professional insight to the table. Dr. Raymond shares invaluable pro tips that every clinician and agency leader needs to know to effectively support veterans dealing with post-traumatic stress and other job-related issues.

In this episode, we invite you to join us for a profound conversation with Dr. Tracy Hejmanowski, a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and the visionary Founder of the First Responder Project. Dr. Hejmanowski brings a wealth of experience from her work consulting with multiple Florida Sheriff’s Offices, the Air Force’s Ready Firefighter Program, and the Navy. Together, we will explore powerful concepts such as "Stress Inoculation," the "Path of Least Resistance," and the "Exposure Catalog"—all of which play crucial roles in maintaining the mental health and operational readiness of first responders.

On this special edition of Responder Resilience, we invite you to join an enlightening masterclass tailored for clinicians, featuring trauma therapists Dr. Nicole Navega, PhD, LCSW, and Bonnie Rumilly, LCSW, EMT. With their extensive backgrounds in providing therapy to EMS and 911 emergency professionals, Nicole and Bonnie bring a wealth of knowledge and a deep understanding of the unique challenges these first responders face. Whether you are just beginning your journey in working with first responders or already have an established practice, today's conversation promises to be incredibly insightful. Nicole and Bonnie will delve into the critical aspects of offering empathetic and effective therapeutic support to these essential professionals.

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.

In this compelling episode, we dive into the heart of firefighter wellness with Kory Pearn—Publisher, Editor-In-Chief, and CEO of CRACKYL Media Inc. Kory is a 20-year veteran firefighter, industry author, and keynote speaker. His mission? To shine a light on the wellness challenges that come with the territory and to teach others how to thrive, not just survive, in this high-stakes profession.

In this info-packed episode, we dive deep into the world of moral injury with the brilliant Dr. Rita Brock, Director of the Volunteers of America Shay Moral Injury Center. Her program extends its life-saving support to first responders, healthcare providers, social workers, and others facing the harrowing effects of moral distress. Join us as we unravel the complex tapestry of moral injury versus Post Traumatic Stress. Picture a paramedic torn apart by the impossible choices of a pandemic, or a police officer haunted by actions that clash with their moral compass. The imagery is stark, the reality heart-wrenching. Tune in for a raw, eye-opening discussion that offers hope and practical tools for healing.

In this episode, we make a push into the flames with Lt. Tina Guiler, a fire Lieutenant and fire inspector who joined the Miami-Dade Fire Rescue in 1999. Tina is also the Owner and CEO of Triple F - Fierce Female Firefighters, an initiative that sparked the creation of the Triple F Dolls. These dolls are more than just toys; they're beacons of empowerment for young girls, introducing them to the world of firefighting.

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.

This week's episode is a wild ride into the heart of leadership with Dr. Candace Ashby, Battalion Chief of the Indianapolis Fire Department. Dr. Ashby dives deep into the essence of "Bottom Up" leadership, revealing how the rank and file can make a difference.

Personal wellness can take a hit when your job demands emotional resilience. Animal Control Officers Jennifer Merenda and Gina Gambino share their struggles, the sleepless nights, the haunting memories. But they also share their coping mechanisms, the little things that keep them going. It’s a raw, unfiltered look at the human side of animal control. Join us as we explore the deep-seated passion and unwavering dedication fueling their relentless pursuit of animal welfare.

Responder Resilience plunges you straight into the heart of the therapist's office, where unspoken tales of adrenaline and pain swirl like a storm. Dr. Stacy Raymond and Bonnie Rumilly, LCSW-EMT, seasoned veterans on a mission to improve mental wellness, pull back the curtain on therapy, offering an exclusive glimpse into the clinician’s world where rescuers come to be healed. They tackle the tough questions head-on and demystify therapy, armed with facts and fueled by their years of experience. The road to resilience starts here!

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.

Ashley Valenzuela is not just answering the call; she's rewriting the playbook for 911 telecommunicators everywhere. An experienced 911 dispatcher and creator of The Raspy Dispatcher, Ashley has seen the challenges and triumphs of the profession. Recognizing the gap in resources for those drawn to this vital work, she is on a mission to support both current and aspiring dispatchers through her innovative online programs.