PODCASTS
Minds on the Frontline E37: Strength through support Featuring Brett Key, Warrior’s Rest Foundation In this episode, Brett Key, co-founder and executive director of Warrior’s Rest Foundation (www.warriorsrestfoundation.org), shares insights from his 26-year law enforcement career and his mission to support first responders' mental health. 
Minds on the Frontline Podcast – E36: Heroes are also human – with Brandon Evans In this episode, we sit down with Brandon Evans, a firefighter, researcher, and founder of Fire to Light. Drawing from over a decade of frontline experience, Brandon shares his journey of addressing mental health challenges in the firefighting community. 
Minds on the Frontline E35 – A sit down with Representative Joe Tate, Michigan Speaker of the House In this episode, we sit down with Joe Tate, Michigan’s Speaker of the House and State Representative for the 10th District. Speaker Tate’s story is one of service, resilience, and leadership, shaped by his experiences as the son of a Detroit firefighter, a professional athlete, a Marine, and a public servant. 
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E34) – When Tragedy Strikes September is Suicide Prevention Month, and to honor this important focus, the Minds on the Frontline podcast is dedicating episodes to addressing the urgent issue of suicide among frontline workers.
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E33) – Suicide Prevention: Spot the Signs. Save a Life. September is Suicide Prevention Month, and to honor this important focus, the Minds on the Frontline podcast is dedicating episodes to addressing the urgent issue of suicide among frontline workers. 
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E32) – Rhythms of Resilience: Annabelle’s Story In this episode, we speak with Annabelle Sharp, a firefighter and paramedic, who shares her deeply personal journey through the grief that followed her father’s suicide in 2016. 
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E31) – The Emotional Side of Retirement Planning In this episode, we sit down with Steve Perna, a retired firefighter and paramedic who served 25 years with the City of Warren. Steve shares his journey through the emotional challenges of a career in the fire service, from intense call volumes to the pressures of transitioning to an administrative role. 
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E30) – Mushroom Medicine: An Intro to Psilocybin Therapy In this episode, we explore the growing interest in psilocybin-assisted therapy, a promising treatment for frontline workers with anxiety, depression, and PTSD. We discuss clinical studies and legislative initiatives examining the controlled use of psilocybin in therapeutic settings, combined with professional counseling.
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E29) – CRACKYL Media: Championing Frontline Health and Wellness In this episode, we sit down with Kory Pearn, a seasoned professional firefighter with over 21 years of experience and the founder of CRACKYL Media. CRACKYL Media creates engaging and authentic content focused on the health, wellness, and lifestyle of frontline workers, particularly firefighters. Kory's dual career as a firefighter and media professional provides a unique perspective, integrating his honed leadership and teamwork skills into his work at CRACKYL Media.
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E28) – The Timeless Challenges of 911 Dispatchers In this episode, we sit down with Francis X Holt, a retired FDNY dispatcher, seasoned behavioral health professional, and author. After a distinguished career in behavioral health spanning several decades and holding various executive roles, Frank has shifted his focus to writing.
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E27) – A Path to Resilience and Recovery In this episode, we sit down with Skip O, a retired professional firefighter from Anderson, Indiana, and the host of the Burnt O-U-T Podcast. With 33 years of service, Skip brings a wealth of experience and insight into the challenges faced by frontline workers. His journey is marked by significant personal and professional trials, including battling alcoholism, drug addiction, and suicidal ideation, undergoing treatment at multiple centers, and surviving a heart attack at 34 years old. 
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E26) – Lessons from a life in law enforcement In this episode, we are privileged to welcome Jeff Motyka, a recently retired police officer who generously shares his life lessons and insights gained from a distinguished 27-year career in law enforcement. Jeff's journey encompasses various roles, from road patrol and undercover narcotics to high-stakes operations with a heroin interdiction task force and the DEA. His professional achievements were paralleled by significant personal challenges, including the impact on his family life. Now in retirement, Jeff has found a renewed sense of balance and fulfillment, and he brings a wealth of wisdom and experience to our discussion.
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E25) – Celebrating EMS Week with Emily Bergquist This week, we celebrate national Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Week, an annual tribute to the contributions of EMS practitioners. Held during the third week of May, EMS Week honors the unwavering dedication, hard work, and sacrifices of these professionals. Ultimately, EMS Week not only honors the dedication and service of EMS practitioners but also highlights their pivotal role in the broader healthcare system and the safety and well-being of our communities. In honor of EMS Week, we have invited Emily Bergquist to the show. Emily is the Director of the Division of EMS and Systems of Care at the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services. She is the first State Director of EMS in Michigan who has actually worked in the field. Emily spent nearly 20 years on the road at busy private EMS agencies, providing primary ALS and interfacility transport across large areas in Michigan. She understands firsthand the hardships that many EMS providers face throughout their careers. 
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E24) – 911 Dispatchers. The Unsung Frontline Workers. In this episode, we're excited to welcome Mariah Alasadi, a Police and Fire dispatcher from the City of Warren. Despite having only six years on the job, Mariah exemplifies the highest standards of professionalism, maintaining a positive attitude and unwavering dedication to serving her community. Mariah's ability to maintain a healthy balance despite the intense demands of her role is not just commendable but essential. During our conversation, we'll delve into the support systems and resources that aid dispatchers like Mariah in managing the emotional and mental toll of their duties. By gaining insight into Mariah’s experiences and the broader context of dispatcher challenges, we aim to foster greater appreciation and support for these vital yet often overlooked frontline workers. To assist us in this conversation, we welcome Scott Taylor, a recently retired police officer and Peer Support Team member from the City of Warren. Scott is also a Peer Support Team member of the FST5. 
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E23) – Readiness, Response, and Resilience with Anthony “Gonzo” Gonzalez In this episode, we are incredibly honored to welcome Anthony “Gonzo” Gonzalez who is the Coral Springs–Parkland Fire Department Battalion Chief assigned to the Training Division as well as a producer for the Gettin Salty Experience Podcast. Throughout his extensive and distinguished career, Gonzo has been at the forefront of some of the most challenging situations faced by first responders, including the harrowing Parkland shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School on February 14, 2018. 
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E22) – Breathe In Breathe Out with Crystal Little In today’s episode, we have the honor of welcoming Crystal Little who is an EMS Captain with Palm Beach County Fire Rescue. In addition, Crystal is a certified Health and Wellness Coach, a yoga teacher, a somatic breath work facilitator, and a Morozko cold-water guide. You can find more information about Crystal and her offerings a www.alittlereset.com.
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E21) – The Relentless Courage of Michael Sugrue In this engaging episode, we’re honored to feature Michael Sugrue, a retired Police Sergeant whose story of valor and vulnerability is a profound emblem of hope for first responders. Michael delves into the intense realities beyond the chaos of flashing lights, sharing the pivotal experiences of a harrowing December night in 2012. 
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E20) – Get to know Geoff and Mike In this episode, you’ll get to know the hosts of the Minds of the Frontline Podcast, as they share personal insights from their journey as first responders and discuss the catalyst for creating this podcast. 
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E19) – EMDR with Bryan Blattert In today’s episode, we welcome Bryan Blattert, LMSW. His transition from a committed firefighter and paramedic to a clinical therapist is as inspiring as it is remarkable. Bryan's early career at the Grand Rapids Fire Department was met with an unforeseen challenge after suffering a grave accident in 2010 while preparing for a dirt bike race. Unfortunately, the accident ended Bryan’s career as a first responder and inflicted a spinal injury that forever altered the course of his life.
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E18) – Insights on Effective Frontline Support In this episode, we welcome Dr. Melissa O’Keefe (PsyD, LMFT), a dedicated clinician at the UFLAC Center for Health and Wellness. Dr. O’Keefe will share the center's mission and delve into the effectiveness of various support services offered. We will also tackle the critical question of what barriers hinder frontline workers from seeking mental and behavioral health support and explore potential solutions.
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E17) – Cancer Sucks In this episode, we welcome Larry Gambotto and Joe Warne. Larry and Joe are here to discuss cancer in the frontline community, the mental and emotional impact of the disease, and various services, networks, and resources that are available to frontline workers and their families.
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E16) – A sit down with Sheriff Jerry Clayton In this episode, we welcome Sheriff Jerry Clayton of the Washtenaw County Sheriff's Department in Michigan, serving over 358,000 residents. A veteran in public safety, Sheriff Clayton is in his fourth term with over 30 years of diversified experience. Our conversation delves into his journey from Corrections Officer to Sheriff, highlighting his role in enhancing law enforcement training nationwide.
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E15) – Surviving the Calls In this episode, we welcome Aileen Pettinger and Manisha Leary to the show. Aileen retired as a Captain from the Saginaw Fire Department and now serves as the Region 2 Training Chief for the Michigan Bureau of Fire Services. In addition, Aileen is an active Peer Support Team Member with the Mid-Michigan Peer Support Team, which is a part of the growing network of peer support teams collaborating with the FST5 Program.
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E14) – Frontline Support in Rural Communities In this episode, we welcome Kristie Buruse and Susan Andary who are the CISM Coordinators for the Central Upper Peninsula CISM Team. During this episode, our guests will discuss the challenges of providing Peer Support and CISM to frontline workers in rural communities.
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E13) – Ashley’s Story The goal of this episode is to continue to openly discuss suicide in the frontline community so that we can continue to break through the stigma and other barriers that prevent too many of our brothers and sisters from seeking the help that they need.
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E12) – Substance Use Disorder During this episode, we’ll take a deep dive into how Substance Use Disorder can take hold, its impact on control over use, and the resulting physical, psychological, and social consequences. Dr. King and Dr. A will guide us through the intricacies of these disorders, their effects, and the importance of recognizing the signs.
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E11) – The Law Enforcement Perspective In this episode, we welcome Scott Taylor, a police officer, and Peer Support Member with the City of Warren Police Department. 
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E10) – Frontline Peer Support Teams During this episode Mike and Manisha will describe the intent, purpose, and functions of frontline Peer Support Teams. 
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E9) – Frontline Spouses Once upon a time in the middle of a pandemic, two fire wives and complete strangers met on the internet and decided to start a podcast for first responders and their families.
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E8) – Culturally Competent Clinicians In this episode, we welcome back Manisha Leary and introduce you to Michele Potter. Manisha Leary is a trained psychotherapist with a focus on trauma. Manisha is also the Manager of the FST5 Program. Michele Potter is a clinical therapist and owner of MRP Counseling in Plymouth, Michigan. 
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E7) – Let’s talk about suicide This episode covers a heavy topic, suicide in the frontline community. Specifically, we discuss suicidal thoughts and ideation. We also talk about what to look for if you think someone you know or work with may be suicidal, as well as how to approach that person and have that hard conversation. 
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E6) – A kitchen table style chat about mental health In this episode, we welcome Mike Milner and Ron Curaba. Mike Milner is a well-known retired firefighter from the FDNY that spent many years on the highly respected Rescue 4.
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E5) – A cop, a dispatcher and two firefighters… During this episode, we talk about PTSD and the impact on first responders. Then, we talk about the value of culturally competent clinicians that understand the job. Finally, we close out the conversation by discussing the value of normalizing the impact of trauma on frontline workers and letting our colleagues know that “it’s ok that it’s not ok,” and treatment is available. 
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E4) – Understanding PTSD with Dr. Arash Javanbakht n this episode, we will introduce you Dr. Arash Javanbakht, who is an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences at Wayne State University School of Medicine. 
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E3) – An introduction to mental health for first responders During this episode, Dr. A will Describe how our developmental experiences determine how we function socially, professionally, and personally throughout our lives. Then, doc will help us appreciate the spectrum of emotions and reactions that can manifest from a perceived stress. 
Minds on the Frontline Podcast – Episode 2 During this episode, we have an open and honest dialogue about various barriers that prevent first responders from getting the help that they need. Specifically, in this episode we will focus on stigma, avoidance, repercussions, as well as the cost and availability of care.
Minds on the Frontline Podcast – Episode 1 The Minds on the Frontline Podcast brought to you by the Wayne State University Frontline Strong Together Program in collaboration with the Michigan Crisis and Access Line.