Stress And Burnout Episodes

Burnout in first responders doesn't announce itself. It doesn't look like a crisis. It looks like a paramedic who still shows up, still runs the calls, still does the job — and feels absolutely nothing while doing it. In this episode of Responder Resilience, Lt. David Dachinger (ret.), Dr. Stacy Raymond, and Bonnie Rumilly, LCSW, EMT have the conversation that first responder culture has spent decades making almost impossible to have.

Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Anthony Almojera, a 20-year veteran Lieutenant and passionate advocate for EMS, as he sheds light on the harsh realities of a profession that battles for recognition alongside firefighters and police, exploring the mental health toll and alarming turnover rates that have surged in the wake of the pandemic.

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 for the challenges of the current environment.

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.

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.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by extreme stress or struggling with feelings of resentment? In this enlightening episode, we feature Dr. Frederic Luskin, the renowned director of the Stanford University Forgiveness Projects.

Tune in for a compelling episode featuring Lt. Col. Dave Grossman, a distinguished former Army Ranger and leading expert on combat psychology and resilience. This engaging conversation reveals essential techniques for cultivating mental toughness and effectively managing trauma responses in the high-pressure environments confronted by first responders.

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Falisa Asberry, a retired law enforcement veteran and Peacock Training & Consulting Group CEO.

In this episode, Deputy Chief Thomas Dunne (FDNY, Ret.) unravels the stressors that grip firefighters and fireground officers on critical calls. Chief Dunne shares secrets to maintaining command presence, and for those stepping into the shoes of Incident Commander, he offers wisdom to lead with confidence.

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 concepts such as "Stress Inoculation," the "Path of Least Resistance," and the "Exposure Catalog"—all of which play crucial roles in maintaining the mental health and operational readiness of first responders.

Join us as we converse with Hi Nguyen, a former officer of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police turned Leadership Coach, exploring the critical role of leadership training for frontline supervisors. We'll uncover how effective leadership techniques not only enhance team performance, but also bolster mental health and boost retention rates.

This episode isn't just about hardships; it's about resilience. Join us as we uncover the strength of the human spirit, as seen through the journey of retired Hartford Police Department Captain Rob Rudewicz, sharing his career and personal battles with addiction, depression, and surviving stage 4 pancreatic cancer. Rob highlights traditional and non-traditional police roles, including serving as acting chief. He discusses his contribution to "The Expanding Man Chronicles," showcasing personal transformation and recovery.

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.

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.

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 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.

In our latest episode of Responder Resilience, we have the incredible Samantha Hawkins as our guest. As a PSAP Professional and Trainer with Moetivations, Inc., Samantha is dedicated to equipping emergency telecommunicators with the skills and mindset for a fulfilling career.

🎧 In this episode of Responder Resilience podcast, we have the incredible Bryony Gilbey, director and producer of the documentary film 'Honorable but Broken: EMS in Crisis'.

Join us for a powerful episode of Responder Resilience premiering on Wednesday. Hear the inspiring story of Kathryn Severns Avery, a courageous individual who turned grief into action by creating Restoration Ranch Colorado, a serene retreat for first responders and their families. Don't miss this incredible journey of compassion and support, to give back to those that selflessly serve the public.

Check out this inspiring episode of Responder Resilience where we dive deep into the power of art therapy with Daniel Sundahl, a paramedic and talented photo artist. Throughout his more than two decades of service as a firefighter and paramedic, Daniel has experienced countless traumatic calls that have taken a toll on his mental health. Using his unique style of photo art, Daniel processes these incidents and creates powerful portraits that capture the dramatic impact of the trauma.

On the next episode of Responder Resilience, we’re joined by Tom Rizzo, Investigations Division Commander and author of the #1 Amazon Best-Seller "Copikaze: A Crucible to Manage Mission Impossible". Listen in as Tom shares his principles of self-discipline and how they can positively impact others. Don't miss out on this insightful conversation.

Join us in this episode as we talk with Resilience Expert & Author at Pathfinder Resilience, Dr. Renee Thornton, about navigating adversity in the world of public safety. A U.S. Navy Veteran, Dr. Thornton has worked with numerous law enforcement agencies, focusing on improving individual health and its implications on recruiting and retention, risk management, and organizational behavior. Listen in to learn how to decrease the impact of adversity on and off the job, and even before it strikes.

Join us in this episode of Responder Resilience, as we hear from Jim Marshall, CEO and Cofounder of the 911 Training Institute. Jim specializes in providing science-driven training, tools, and resources that foster the optimal well-being of 9-1-1 professionals. With his expertise, 9-1-1 Professionals can confidently manage calls involving mental crises and suicide. Don't miss out on this insightful conversation about serving the unique psychological needs of the Very First Responders who serve and protect us every day!

In this episode, Bonnie and David speak with Dr. Peter M. Antevy about managing mental health challenges at critical incidents, the story behind creating the Handtevy App, and how it saves lives and significantly reduces medication errors.