Responder Resilience

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...

Get ready to meet firefighter/paramedic Jason Patton, the creative genius behind Fire Department Chronicles. We take a peek into his world and the work he does both on and off the job. Jason shares his unique perspective on the struggles and triumphs of being a first responder, as we tackle important subjects like mental health, resiliency, suicide, and cancer detection. Episode Sponsored By ReBou...

In this episode, we delve into the powerful stories behind "Photos From the Front Lines" with photographer, paramedic and disabled veteran combat medic, Derek O. Hanley. Discover the stories that honor but also reveal the brokenness of EMS, and learn about the urgent need for improving responder recruitment, retention and mental health support. Derek also discusses the documentary, &quot...

In the latest episode of Responder Resilience, trauma therapists Dr. Stacy Raymond and Bonnie Rumilly, LCSW/EMT, dive deep into the crucial aspects of first responder mental health. Drawing from EMS & FIRE PRO Expo interviews, they provide compelling insights into what emergency service leaders want their colleagues to know about mental health. The episode also highlights the work of the Fairf...

Join us for an emotional and inspiring episode featuring retired Fire Lieutenant/Paramedic Todd Donovan. We dive deep into his journey, exploring what triggered his depression and suicidal thoughts. We'll explore the groundbreaking world of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and discover Todd's impactful role in the National Alliance of Mental Illness. This is an episode you won&apo...

Guest co-host Captain Rom Duckworth joins us on the latest episode of Responder Resilience as we sit down with Battalion Chief Dena Ali from the Raleigh (NC) Fire Department. Chief Ali shares valuable insights on how to cultivate resilience as leaders, and approach conversations with those who are struggling. We also explore what it takes to be a great company officer who connects with and advocat...

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. David discusses the importance of...

Join us on Responder Resilience as 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. Discover how to incorporate...

Join us as we step into the extraordinary world of Josephine Rios, a 911 dispatcher at the Broward Sheriff's Office. Behind every emergency call is a headset hero like Josephine, whose voice serves as a lifeline in moments of crisis. In this fascinating conversation, she shares the emotional highs and lows of her job, shedding light on the often-overlooked mental health challenges faced by di...

Step into the world of Samantha Hawkins, a seasoned PSAP professional and trainer, as she unveils the unseen challenges faced by 911 dispatchers. Explore Samantha’s crucial role with Moetivations, Inc., a company that delivers crucial support services to communications centers all over the country, and her role as an advocate for elevating dispatchers' professional status.  Join us on a journ...