Minds on the Frontline Podcast
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. Frontline Strong Together, or FST5, provides streamlined access to behavioral health resources, as well as increased access to crisis services to Michigan’s front line five, which includes all professional, part-time, and volunteer firefighters, EMS, law enforcement, corrections officers, and 911 dispatchers. The Michigan Crisis and Access Line, or MiCAL, serves as the central call center for the FST5 Program. FST5 was collaboratively created by first responders and mental health experts to provide 24/7 live support, effective resources, and cutting-edge services to prevent and alleviate PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other frontline work-related mental health challenges. NEED HELP NOW? If you are experiencing any crisis - work related, substance abuse, depression, relationships, financial, or any other, reach out by calling 1-833-34-STRONG or go to FST5.org for more information.
Episodes
33 episodes since 2023
Suicide Prevention: Spot the Signs. Save a Life.
In this episode, we welcome back Manisha Leary, the FST5 Program Manager and a clinical psychotherapist specializing in trauma. September is Suicide Prevention Month, and to honor this important focus, the Minds on the Frontline podcast is dedi...
September 16, 2024
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Episode 33
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1:07:01
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. Annabelle turned to music as a lifeline, using songwriting to expr...
September 02, 2024
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Episode 32
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47:00
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...
August 19, 2024
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Episode 31
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41:35
Mushroom Medicine: An Intro to Psilocybin Therapy
Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and not medical advice; consult a healthcare provider for personal health concerns.In this episode, we explore the growing interest in psilocybin-assisted therapy, a promising ...
August 05, 2024
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Episode 30
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29:21
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...
July 22, 2024
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Episode 29
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30:19
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, Fr...
July 08, 2024
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Episode 28
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43:51
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 ...
June 17, 2024
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Episode 27
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35:43
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 r...
June 03, 2024
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Episode 26
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1:00:31
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 thes...
May 22, 2024
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Episode 25
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36:59
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 attitu...
May 06, 2024
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Episode 24
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52:24
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.&nb...
April 22, 2024
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Episode 23
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42:39
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, ...
April 08, 2024
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Episode 22
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1:11:39
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...
March 25, 2024
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Episode 21
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58:46
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. Geoff Lassers is a professional Fire...
March 11, 2024
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Episode 20
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28:00
EMDR with Bryan Blattert, LMSW
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...
February 26, 2024
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Episode 19
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41:09
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. W...
February 12, 2024
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Episode 18
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32:24
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 availabl...
January 29, 2024
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Episode 17
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41:13
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 expe...
January 15, 2024
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41:12
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 addi...
January 01, 2024
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Episode 15
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40:27
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. Kristie Buruse is a retired dispatcher and former firefighter, and paramedic. Susan Andary is an Advanced...
December 19, 2023
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Episode 14
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37:05
Ashley’s Story
WARNING: This episode discusses the sensitive and potentially triggering topic of suicide. Listener discretion is advised. In this episode, we welcome Ashley Freeman, an EMT who is also working towards her master’s degree in...
December 04, 2023
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Episode 13
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30:09
Substance Use Disorder (SUD)
In this episode, we welcome back Dr. Ali Amirsadri. Dr. A is the Medical Director of the FST5 Program, and he brings a wealth of knowledge from his role at Wayne State University's Department of Psychiatry and as an Associate Chair for Cl...
November 20, 2023
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Episode 12
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52:27
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. In addition, Scott is the State of Michigan Officer Wellness liaison to the National Fraternal Order of Police,...
November 06, 2023
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Episode 11
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30:45
Frontline Peer Support Teams
In this episode, we welcome back Manisha Leary who is the manager of the FST5 Program, as well as a trained psychotherapist with a focus on trauma. During this episode, Mike and Manisha will describe the intent, purpose, and functions of ...
October 23, 2023
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Episode 10
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49:10