Josh Bitsko was one of three officers who breached the suspect’s room during the 1 October mass shooting in Las Vegas, the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history. That moment was not just a test of tactics; it was a critical examination of the emotional core of what it truly…
In this engaging episode of Responder Resilience, Bonnie and David tackle the unspoken challenges faced by first responders dealing with perfectionism and relentless self-criticism. They dig into how the intense nature of their work and the trauma they encounter shape their beliefs and behaviors. It’s a raw look at the…
In this episode, we address the realities of mental health in high-stress professions, the impact of training, and the often-overlooked importance of creative outlets for healing with John Creamer, the Deputy Executive Director of the Florida Deputy Sheriff’s Association. With over 32 years in law enforcement and a wealth of…
In this episode, we hear from seven influential FDNY leaders who share their insights on effective leadership, resilience, and wellness: - Captain Frank Leto: Discusses the rapid formation of FDNY mental health resources after 9/11. - Lieutenant Drew Kane: Offers insights into the support provided by the FDNY Counseling Services…
Join us on this Clinician’s Guide masterclass as we speak with Dr. Nicole Navega, a pioneer in embedded EMS trauma care. When it comes to supporting first responders, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach for clinicians. Through her insights into various clinical models, Dr. Navega reveals how the embedded clinician model stands…
Get ready to embark on the inspiring journey of Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, the groundbreaking former U.S. Fire Administrator. Join us as we explore the unique challenges she faced as a woman during her early career as a paramedic, shedding light on the game-changing initiatives she championed at the IAFF that…
In this episode, we talk with Lt. Tommy Bolin, a firefighter and paramedic from Central Ohio, about the hidden mental health struggles first responders face. Drawing from his book, “Unseen Battles: The Price of Duty in a Life of Trauma and Sacrifice,” Tommy discusses the toll of duty, identity crises,…
Join our very own Bonnie Rumilly, LCSW, EMTB, and Stacy Raymond, PsyD, in this engaging episode as they share their expertise on building a practice tailored for clinicians working with First Responders. They will offer effective strategies for integrating support networks, managing insurance and payment hurdles, and fostering a therapeutic…
In this dynamic episode, join us as we sit down with Jim Burneka and Nick Magoteaux, the dynamic duo behind the Firefighter Health & Wellness Conference. From raw, personal stories to powerful insights about mental health, these two are on a mission to help first responders navigate the often-overlooked challenges…
In this Clinicians Guide Masterclass, we delve into the intricate world of first responder mental health with Sarah Gura, MA, LCPC, LMHC, EMDR, a seasoned clinician whose expertise sheds light on the intersection of legal intricacies and compassionate care. Join us as we explore essential topics, including confidentiality standards, navigating…
What if the key to mental wellness lies not just in the mind but in the bed? In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Leah Kaylor, the FBI's sleep expert helps to unravel the intricate relationship between sleep and resilience, exploring how addressing sleep issues can spark essential conversations about mental health…
What if the key to mental wellness lies not just in the mind but in the bed? In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Leah Kaylor, the FBI's sleep expert helps to unravel the intricate relationship between sleep and resilience, exploring how addressing sleep issues can spark essential conversations about mental health…
Join us for an insightful conversation with Doug Allen, the author of “An Operator's Guide to the Nervous System”. With a deep commitment to serving military personnel and the first responder community, Doug offers a fresh perspective on achieving peak performance through an innovative technique that recalibrates your nervous system…
In this compelling episode, we sit down with Lieutenant Andrew Kane, a seasoned veteran of the FDNY with three decades of experience. Drew was on the front lines at Ground Zero during 9/11 and has committed his life to supporting firefighters and their families in navigating mental health and substance…
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Nolan Beise, the visionary CEO of Circl Brain Health. Imagine a world where you can optimize your mental performance just as you would your physical fitness. Dr. Beise takes us through the revolutionary technology behind wearable EEG brainwave measurements and how it…
Join us in this smoldering episode as we sit down with Erik Mickelsen, a seasoned Investigator from the Franklin Township Fire Marshals Office and Somerset County Fire Investigation Unit. With nearly two decades of experience, Erik delves into the essential role of the Fire Marshal, offering a unique perspective on…
Join us for a powerful conversation with Retired Fire Chief Patrick J. Kenny, author of “Taking the Cape Off: How to Lead Through Mental Illness, Unimaginable Grief, and Loss.” We peel back the layers of leadership in emergency services and what it truly means to lead with strength and vulnerability.…
In this episode, we explore the transformative power of boxing with “Coach PJ” Shirdan from FightCamp, a cutting-edge at-home boxing and kickboxing training system. Discover how the art of boxing not only enhances physical fitness but also fosters discipline and resilience—crucial traits for those on the front lines. We’ll tackle…
In this episode, we sit down with Lt. Danny Smith, a retired firefighter whose 18 years of service took an unexpected turn during a harrowing cardiac event in 2017. Danny shares his transformative journey of navigating the critical crossroads of health and well-being. We explore the pivotal moment when Danny…
We sit down with John Oldham, a retired Division Chief from the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office, to discuss the crucial intersection of first responder relationships and mental health. As we unpack the effects of psychological trauma, we’ll explore its impact on both first responders and their families. Tune in to learn…
Join us for a compelling episode of Responder Resilience as we speak with Victor Stagnaro, CEO of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and the First Responder Center for Excellence. We’ll honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice and discuss the vital mission of NFFF in supporting the mental health and…
Tune in as John Moon, retired Assistant Chief of Pittsburgh E.M.S. and a former Freedom House Ambulance Service paramedic, shares the powerful story of Freedom House, the first Black-led EMS organization in the U.S. We learn how they revolutionized emergency medical services, providing critical care when it was desperately needed…
Our guest Kristal DeSantis is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and the author of "STRONG: A Relationship Field Guide for the Modern Man." Her approach blends psychology, attachment theory, and practical strategies to help people build thriving relationships. We’ll explore the unique challenges first responders and military personnel encounter…
This critical episode explores a pressing issue affecting every firefighter: cancer prevention and detection. Join FDNY Battalion Chief John Haseney as we discuss vital steps being taken to overcome implementation barriers within the fire service. Discover the innovative efforts of the FDNY Contamination Reduction Workgroup and learn how they promote…
