Responder Resilience

Videos

Dec. 12, 2025

A book born from 200+ real conversations, crafted for those who support responders.

📘✨ Exciting News! ✨📘 "Helping the Helpers: A Clinician’s Guide to First Responder Mental Wellness" was born from 200+ real conversations on our Responder Resilience podcast, and is crafted specifically for those who support first responders. 🤝 What you’ll learn: - Understand the unique First Responder culture - Build trust…

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Dec. 11, 2025

The critical need for culturally competent first responder clinicians

🚨 New Episode Alert! 🚨 In the latest installment of Responder Resilience, Lt. Andrew Masters from Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue dives deep into the critical need for culturally competent clinicians. He understands the unique pressures faced by our brave responders firsthand and shares invaluable insights. Join us in uncovering what…

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Dec. 10, 2025

Beyond Cultural Competence: Real Talk from the Trenches with Guest Drew Masters | S5 E50

We sit down with Lt. Andrew Masters of Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue, a man who has stared into the abyss. His raw, unfiltered journey takes us deep into the struggles of mental health within the first responder community, where the weight of despair nearly pushed him over the edge. Andrew…

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Dec. 4, 2025

First Responders: It’s time to break the silence and stop the resentment!

🚨 First Responders: It’s time to break the silence and stop the resentment! 💔 Join us with Erin Maccabee, a First Responder Integration Coach, as she reveals powerful strategies to help you communicate with your partner after those tough shifts. This episode dives deep into practical tools and proven methods…

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Dec. 3, 2025

From Chaos to Connection: Healing the Responder Relationship with Erin Maccabee | S5 E49

Join us for an eye-opening episode featuring Erin Maccabee, a First Responder Integration Coach with deep insights into the world of first responders and their partners. Erin shares a roadmap for clinicians and first responders looking to navigate the intense emotional challenges of the job, and unveils the crucial “re-entry…

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Nov. 28, 2025

Condition Critical: The Crisis Within EMS with Anthony Almojera

🚑🔊 Attention EMS Warriors! Join us for a raw and revealing conversation with Anthony Almojera, a seasoned NYC EMS Lieutenant, as he discusses the challenges he faces daily. From skyrocketing call volumes to the growing mental health crisis – it’s time to shine a light on the unsung crisis of…

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Nov. 26, 2025

Condition Critical: The Crisis Within EMS with Guest Anthony Almojera | S5 E48

In this episode, we pull back the curtain on the often-overlooked world of New York City’s Emergency Medical Services. 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…

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Nov. 19, 2025

Embracing Life Beyond the Badge with Erin Nugent | S5 E47

In this episode of Responder Resilience, we sit down with Erin Nugent, a former police officer turned First Responder Wellness Coach. Erin shares her journey from frontline service to civilian life, discussing the personal challenges she faced and the strategies that have worked for her. She aims to destigmatize mental…

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Nov. 12, 2025

Post-Traumatic Growth: Turn Your Pain into Power | S5 E46

In this compelling episode, we go deep into the transformative journey of trauma with clinical directors Bonnie Rumilly and Jennifer Spirito from the Fairfield County Trauma Response Team. Get ready to challenge your perceptions as we unravel how trauma isn't just a burden but a catalyst for profound change. Discover…

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Nov. 5, 2025

Becoming Unbreakable with Guest Kwesi Millington | S5 E45

In this episode, we sit down with Kwesi Millington—a former RCMP officer whose life changed forever after a high-profile incident and the mental health crisis that followed. Kwesi opens up about the pressures of policing in the public eye and what it really takes to rebuild after hitting rock bottom.…

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Oct. 29, 2025

Clinician’s Guide to Embedding in Disaster Responses | S5 E44

In this Clinicians' Guide Masterclass, we turn the spotlight on the often-overlooked world of mental health in disaster response. Join us as Joellen Rhyndress, a seasoned therapist, shares authentic stories from the front lines of crisis management, revealing what it's truly like to be an embedded clinician in the chaos.…

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Oct. 22, 2025

101 Questions to Ask Before Becoming a Law Enforcement Officer | S5 E43

Join us for this compelling episode featuring retired police officers Ernest Stevens and Scott Medlin as they unpack their groundbreaking book, *101 Questions to Ask Before Becoming a Law Enforcement Officer*. We lean into eye-opening discussions that will challenge your perspective on a career in policing. Hear firsthand how this…

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Oct. 15, 2025

The New Playbook for Increasing Resilience with Dr. Stephanie Conn | S5 E42

In this episode, we converse with Dr. Stephanie Conn, a leading expert in police psychology and resilience training for first responders. With nearly three decades of experience, Dr. Conn brings a wealth of knowledge to the table, especially from her newly updated book, "Increasing Resilience in Police & Emergency Personnel."…

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Oct. 8, 2025

Redefining Law Enforcement Leadership with Sheriff Michelle Cook | S5 E41

In this episode, we sit down with Sheriff Michelle Cook from the Clay County, Florida, Sheriff's Office for an eye-opening discussion about the ever-evolving landscape of law enforcement. Sheriff Cook shares her insights on the crucial topics of recruitment and retention within the force, diving deep into the challenges and…

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Oct. 1, 2025

Leading Through Chaos With Clarity, Confidence, And Control | S5 E40

Josh Bitsko was one of three officers who breached the suspect’s room during the 1 October mass shooting in Las Vegas, the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history. That moment was not just a test of tactics; it was a critical examination of the emotional core of what it truly…

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Sept. 24, 2025

When Perfectionism Becomes Toxic with Bonnie Rumilly, LCSW, EMT | S5 E39

In this engaging episode of Responder Resilience, Bonnie and David tackle the unspoken challenges faced by first responders dealing with perfectionism and relentless self-criticism. They dig into how the intense nature of their work and the trauma they encounter shape their beliefs and behaviors. It’s a raw look at the…

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Sept. 17, 2025

Navigating the Journey to Resilience with Guest John Creamer | S5 E38

In this episode, we address the realities of mental health in high-stress professions, the impact of training, and the often-overlooked importance of creative outlets for healing with John Creamer, the Deputy Executive Director of the Florida Deputy Sheriff’s Association. With over 32 years in law enforcement and a wealth of…

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Sept. 10, 2025

Lessons from the Leaders of FDNY | S5 E37

In this episode, we hear from seven influential FDNY leaders who share their insights on effective leadership, resilience, and wellness: - Captain Frank Leto: Discusses the rapid formation of FDNY mental health resources after 9/11. - Lieutenant Drew Kane: Offers insights into the support provided by the FDNY Counseling Services…

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Sept. 3, 2025

Clinician’s Guide to Living the Embedded Clinician Role with Dr. Nicole Navega | S5 E36

Join us on this Clinician’s Guide masterclass as we speak with Dr. Nicole Navega, a pioneer in embedded EMS trauma care. When it comes to supporting first responders, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach for clinicians. Through her insights into various clinical models, Dr. Navega reveals how the embedded clinician model stands…

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Aug. 27, 2025

Creating a Culture of Resilience with Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell | S5 E35

Get ready to embark on the inspiring journey of Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, the groundbreaking former U.S. Fire Administrator. Join us as we explore the unique challenges she faced as a woman during her early career as a paramedic, shedding light on the game-changing initiatives she championed at the IAFF that…

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Aug. 20, 2025

Unseen Battles: The Price of Duty with Lt. Tommy Bolin | S5 E34

In this episode, we talk with Lt. Tommy Bolin, a firefighter and paramedic from Central Ohio, about the hidden mental health struggles first responders face. Drawing from his book, “Unseen Battles: The Price of Duty in a Life of Trauma and Sacrifice,” Tommy discusses the toll of duty, identity crises,…

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Aug. 13, 2025

Clinician’s Guide to Structuring a Practice That Works | S5 E33

Join our very own Bonnie Rumilly, LCSW, EMTB, and Stacy Raymond, PsyD, in this engaging episode as they share their expertise on building a practice tailored for clinicians working with First Responders. They will offer effective strategies for integrating support networks, managing insurance and payment hurdles, and fostering a therapeutic…

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Aug. 6, 2025

Revolutionize Your Resilience with Jim Burneka and Nick Magoteaux | S5 E32

In this dynamic episode, join us as we sit down with Jim Burneka and Nick Magoteaux, the dynamic duo behind the Firefighter Health & Wellness Conference. From raw, personal stories to powerful insights about mental health, these two are on a mission to help first responders navigate the often-overlooked challenges…

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July 30, 2025

Clinician’s Guide to Legal Insights, Ethics and Advocacy | S5 E31

In this Clinicians Guide Masterclass, we delve into the intricate world of first responder mental health with Sarah Gura, MA, LCPC, LMHC, EMDR, a seasoned clinician whose expertise sheds light on the intersection of legal intricacies and compassionate care. Join us as we explore essential topics, including confidentiality standards, navigating…

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