PODCASTS
Minds Podcast (E23) – Readiness, Response, and Resilience with Anthony “Gonzo” GonzalezIn 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 LittleIn 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 SugrueIn 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 MikeIn 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 BlattertIn 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 SupportIn 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 SucksIn 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 ClaytonIn 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 CallsIn 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 CommunitiesIn 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 StoryThe 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 DisorderDuring 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 PerspectiveIn 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 TeamsDuring this episode Mike and Manisha will describe the intent, purpose, and functions of frontline Peer Support Teams.
Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E9) – Frontline SpousesOnce 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 CliniciansIn 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 suicideThis 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 healthIn 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 Javanbakhtn 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 respondersDuring 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 2During 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 1The 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.