Responder Resilience

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, Sta...

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 concept...

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 challeng...

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...

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. We...

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...

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. But her story doesn't stop there. 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 empowermen...

In this dynamic episode, 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. Dr. Johnson, with a master's in criminology and criminal justice from the University of Missouri, St. Louis, and a doctorate in organizational leadership management, brings...

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. Have you ever wondered why fire organizations feel so disconnected? Dr. Ashby explains it all. She breaks down the critical...

Join us as we reveal the raw, unfiltered look at the human side of animal control with Jennifer Merenda, Chief Animal Control Officer, City of Bridgeport, CT, and Gina Gambino, Head Animal Control Officer for Monroe, CT.  We get a behind-the-scenes look at the careers of these seasoned professionals and gain a deeper understanding of their vital role in our communities. We explore what Jennifer an...

Today, we’re not just breaking down doors; we're breaking the stigmas. The sirens fade, all units are returning to quarters, and the streets are safe again - but what happens to those who just calmed the chaos? This episode cuts through the silence that often shadows frontline personnel, diving directly into the unspoken truths of first responder mental health. Imagine stepping into a therapi...

When Hi Nguyen pivoted from sales to counterterrorism in the wake of 9/11, he stepped into a world where every decision could mean life or death. Now, as he joins David and Dr. Stacey Raymond on our latest episode, we unearth the critical lessons of resilience and trust he's carried from the front lines to the boardroom. We're not just talking shop here; we're getting to the heart o...

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 he...

In this unique episode of our podcast, we bring you an exclusive compilation of stories, insights, and innovations from the front lines of EMS. Join us as we explore the minds and hearts of those who dedicate their lives to saving others, offering a unique glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of this critical profession. Our journey begins with Daniel Sundahl, a paramedic and photo artist, who...

In 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 o...

In this enlightening episode of the Responder Resilience, we dive deep into the heart of mental health within the fire service, featuring a captivating dialogue with Acting Fire Chief David Motes of Clay County Fire Rescue (CCFR), Florida, and Marie Guma, the visionary founder of Command Counseling Center. Together, they shed light on the critical need and their collaborative efforts in establishi...

In this eye-opening episode of our podcast, we delve into the life of Rob Rudewicz, a man whose career in law enforcement spanned two decades, culminating in his retirement as a Captain from the Hartford Police Department. Rob's journey is not just a tale of policing a city he grew up in, but it's also a raw exploration of his own personal battles with addiction, depression, and survivin...

In this enlightening episode, we delve into the impactful world of first responders and the mental health challenges they face, through the lens of Captain Chris Moore's personal and professional experiences. As a key figure in his department's Behavioral Health and Peer Support Team, Chris opens up about his own battle with post-traumatic stress, diagnosed in 2018, following years of de...

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. We investigate betrayal, affairs and rebuilding shattered trust in first responder marriages. John brings a wealth of knowledge on smashing the cycle of self-destruction and maintaining healthy relationships in high-stress first responder pr...

Ready to take your career to the next level and achieve that long-awaited promotion? Tune in as we welcome Al Pratts, Deputy Chief and Chief of Special Operations at North Hudson Regional Fire and Rescue and delve deep into the intricate relationship between the first responder promotional process and mental health. Learn valuable insights on preparing for the promotional process and discover the...

In this special episode, Officer Pete Elste (Crisis Intervention Team Coordinator), Firefighter Pete Nichio, Bonnie Rumilly, LCSW-EMT, and Scott Alvord, LCSW (Crisis Intervention Clinician), come together for Real Talk: Stress vs Serenity. Under the theme of "This too shall pass," they explore strength in vulnerability and recovery from job-related trauma. They discuss the benefits of Em...

In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of Anthony Perez, the Fire Chief of Pasco County, Florida. We explore the challenges and triumphs of transitioning into a new leadership role, the innovative cancer prevention initiatives he has implemented within his department, and the impact of recruitment and retention strategies on the firefighting community. We also discuss Chief Perez&apos...

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.” As a pivotal member of the San Antonio Police Department Mental Health Unit, Ernie brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table. Featured in the Emmy Award Winning HBO Doc...

In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of Joseph T. Bonanno, a true American hero who has served in both the USAF and The FDNY. Joseph opens up about the profound impact of suicide on his life, especially following the tragic loss of his brother Michael in 2012. Through his personal experiences, Joseph sheds light on the ripple effect of suicide and shares valuable insights on coping...

In this episode of Responder Resilience, we delve into the world of impactful filmmaking with Jason Harney, a retired Police Sergeant turned Documentary Filmmaker. Join us as we explore Jason's journey from serving with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department for over two decades to his current role as a producer and director at Lightning Digital Entertainment. With a focus on addressing...