Minds on the Frontline Podcast

In this episode, we welcome Captain David Clifton of the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office Corrections Division, where he has served for 18 years and counting. During this episode, we discuss the challenges officers face, the emotional toll of the job, and the misconceptions about corrections work. Captain Clifton highlights the need for mentorship, crisis intervention, and mental health support, including his own experience with therapy. He also explores how leadership can improve conditions for officers while balancing security and rehabilitation. Tune in for a powerful look inside the world of corrections.

Minds on the Frontline Podcast is brought to you by the Frontline Strong Together 5 Program. FST5 provides streamlined access to behavioral and mental health services, as well as crisis resources for Michigan’s frontline workers and their families.  NEED HELP NOW? If you are a frontline worker in Michigan or an immediate family member experiencing any crisis, whether work-related, substance abuse, depression, relationships, finances, or other challenges, reach out by calling 1-833-34-STRONG or visit FST5.org for more information.

Minds on the Frontline is available on all podcast platforms and YouTube.  

• Link to YouTube episode:  https://tinyurl.com/vxhktj6w
• Link to Buzzsprout:  https://mindsonthefrontlinepodcast.buzzsprout.com/
• YouTube:  frontlinestrongtogether2346
• Facebook: FrontlineStrongTogether and Minds on the Frontline
• Instagram:  mifst5 and FrontlinePodcast
• LinkedIn:  Frontline-Strong-Together-5 and Minds on the Frontline Podcast 

In this episode, Dr. Ali Amirsadri, Director of the FST5 Program and a seasoned psychiatrist with over 20 years in emergency psychiatry, joins us to explore the profound connection between crying and laughter. As essential emotional tools, these responses shape how we process experiences, connect with others, and manage stress, especially for frontline workers. We delve into their evolutionary roots, physiological and neurological impact, and their role in resilience. From the power of humor in high-stress professions to the dangers of emotional suppression, this episode highlights why vulnerability is not a weakness but a crucial element of trust and mental well-being.

Minds on the Frontline Podcast is brought to you by the Frontline Strong Together 5 Program. FST5 provides streamlined access to behavioral and mental health services, as well as crisis resources for Michigan’s frontline workers and their families.  NEED HELP NOW? If you are a frontline worker in Michigan or an immediate family member experiencing any crisis, whether work-related, substance abuse, depression, relationships, finances, or other challenges, reach out by calling 1-833-34-STRONG or visit FST5.org for more information.

Minds on the Frontline is available on all podcast platforms and YouTube.  

• Link to YouTube episode:  https://tinyurl.com/vxhktj6w
• Link to Buzzsprout:  https://mindsonthefrontlinepodcast.buzzsprout.com/
• YouTube:  frontlinestrongtogether2346
• Facebook: FrontlineStrongTogether and Minds on the Frontline
• Instagram:  mifst5 and FrontlinePodcast
• LinkedIn:  Frontline-Strong-Together-5 and Minds on the Frontline Podcast 

In this episode, we welcome award-winning filmmaker Conrad Weaver, director of PTSD 911, a documentary exploring the mental health challenges faced by first responders. Conrad shares insights from his journey capturing the resilience and struggles of these frontline heroes and offers actionable strategies for fostering wellness, peer support, and systemic change within agencies. Discover how his work sheds light on the urgent need to support those who serve our communities.

Minds on the Frontline Podcast is brought to you by the Frontline Strong Together 5 Program. FST5 provides streamlined access to behavioral and mental health services, as well as crisis resources for Michigan’s frontline workers and their families.  NEED HELP NOW? If you are a frontline worker in Michigan or an immediate family member experiencing any crisis, whether work-related, substance abuse, depression, relationships, finances, or other challenges, reach out by calling 1-833-34-STRONG or visit FST5.org for more information.

Minds on the Frontline is available on all podcast platforms and YouTube.  

• Link to YouTube episode:  https://tinyurl.com/vxhktj6w
• Link to Buzzsprout:  https://mindsonthefrontlinepodcast.buzzsprout.com/
• YouTube:  frontlinestrongtogether2346
• Facebook: FrontlineStrongTogether and Minds on the Frontline
• Instagram:  mifst5 and FrontlinePodcast
• LinkedIn:  Frontline-Strong-Together-5 and Minds on the Frontline Podcast 

In this episode, we welcome back Dr. Ali Amirsadri, a respected psychiatrist, professor, and advocate for frontline mental health. As the Director of the FST5 Program, Dr. A has over 20 years of experience in emergency psychiatry and specializes in addressing PTSD, anxiety, and grief in Michigan’s frontline workers. Building on Episode 41, we explore multidimensional grief, trauma, and actionable strategies for healing and growth, with a focus on supporting first responders and their families.

Minds on the Frontline Podcast is brought to you by the Frontline Strong Together 5 Program. FST5 provides streamlined access to behavioral and mental health services, as well as crisis resources for Michigan’s frontline workers and their families.  NEED HELP NOW? If you are a frontline worker in Michigan or an immediate family member experiencing any crisis, whether work-related, substance abuse, depression, relationships, finances, or other challenges, reach out by calling 1-833-34-STRONG or visit FST5.org for more information.

Minds on the Frontline is available on all podcast platforms and YouTube.  

• Link to YouTube episode:  https://tinyurl.com/vxhktj6w
• Link to Buzzsprout:  https://mindsonthefrontlinepodcast.buzzsprout.com/
• YouTube:  frontlinestrongtogether2346
• Facebook: FrontlineStrongTogether and Minds on the Frontline
• Instagram:  mifst5 and FrontlinePodcast
• LinkedIn:  Frontline-Strong-Together-5 and Minds on the Frontline Podcast 

In this episode, Michigan’s State Fire Marshal Kevin Sehlmeyer shares insights from over 30 years in the fire service. We discuss his work leading the Bureau of Fire Services, efforts to reduce fire fatalities, and initiatives like FST5 that expand access to mental health resources. Kevin highlights how mental health support improves recruitment, retention, and resilience while addressing financial barriers to care. Learn how programs like FST5 are eliminating copays for frontline workers and their families.

Minds on the Frontline Podcast is brought to you by the Frontline Strong Together 5 Program. FST5 provides streamlined access to behavioral and mental health services, as well as crisis resources for Michigan’s frontline workers and their families.  NEED HELP NOW? If you are a frontline worker in Michigan or an immediate family member experiencing any crisis, whether work-related, substance abuse, depression, relationships, finances, or other challenges, reach out by calling 1-833-34-STRONG or visit FST5.org for more information.

Minds on the Frontline is available on all podcast platforms and YouTube.  

• Link to YouTube episode:  https://tinyurl.com/vxhktj6w
• Link to Buzzsprout:  https://mindsonthefrontlinepodcast.buzzsprout.com/
• YouTube:  frontlinestrongtogether2346
• Facebook: FrontlineStrongTogether and Minds on the Frontline
• Instagram:  mifst5 and FrontlinePodcast
• LinkedIn:  Frontline-Strong-Together-5 and Minds on the Frontline Podcast 

In this episode, we sit down with Michigan State Representative Mike McFall, a dedicated advocate for public safety and community well-being. Representing House District 8, which includes Hazel Park, Madison Heights, and portions of Ferndale, Detroit, and Highland Park (and expanding to parts of Warren and Centerline in 2025), Mike brings a hands-on approach to his work—riding along with police, joining fire runs, and securing critical funding for public safety. We explore how these firsthand experiences have shaped his understanding of frontline challenges, including the pressing need to address mental health for first responders and their families. Mike shares actionable strategies for reducing stigma, improving access to support, and fostering stronger connections between legislators, leaders, and the frontline community. This episode delivers inspiring insights and practical solutions for anyone passionate about supporting those who protect and serve.

Minds on the Frontline Podcast is brought to you by the Frontline Strong Together 5 Program. FST5 provides streamlined access to behavioral and mental health services, as well as crisis resources for Michigan’s frontline workers and their families.  NEED HELP NOW? If you are a frontline worker in Michigan or an immediate family member experiencing any crisis, whether work-related, substance abuse, depression, relationships, finances, or other challenges, reach out by calling 1-833-34-STRONG or visit FST5.org for more information.

Minds on the Frontline is available on all podcast platforms and YouTube.  

• Link to YouTube episode:  https://tinyurl.com/vxhktj6w
• Link to Buzzsprout:  https://mindsonthefrontlinepodcast.buzzsprout.com/
• YouTube:  frontlinestrongtogether2346
• Facebook: FrontlineStrongTogether and Minds on the Frontline
• Instagram:  mifst5 and FrontlinePodcast
• LinkedIn:  Frontline-Strong-Together-5 and Minds on the Frontline Podcast 

In this episode of Minds on the Frontline, we sit down with James Geering, former firefighter, paramedic, and host of the acclaimed Behind the Shield Podcast. With over 1,000 episodes and 6 million downloads, James has become a trusted voice in the first responder community, offering powerful insights into mental and physical wellness.  James shares his journey from his career in fire service to creating one of the most impactful platforms for frontline worker health. We discuss the most pressing mental and behavioral health challenges facing first responders today, like sleep deprivation, burnout, and systemic obstacles, and why meaningful structural change is urgently needed. James also provides evidence-based strategies for building resilience, emphasizes the critical role of peer support and culturally competent providers, and offers practical advice for first responders and their families on navigating mental health challenges.  This episode is packed with actionable insights, heartfelt stories, and empowering solutions for those on the frontlines and the people who support them. Go to JamesGeering.com for more information.  

Minds on the Frontline Podcast is brought to you by the Frontline Strong Together 5 Program. FST5 provides streamlined access to behavioral and mental health services, as well as crisis resources for Michigan’s frontline workers and their families.  NEED HELP NOW? If you are a frontline worker in Michigan or an immediate family member experiencing any crisis, whether work-related, substance abuse, depression, relationships, finances, or other challenges, reach out by calling 1-833-34-STRONG or visit FST5.org for more information.

Minds on the Frontline is available on all podcast platforms and YouTube.  

• Link to YouTube episode:  https://tinyurl.com/vxhktj6w
• Link to Buzzsprout:  https://mindsonthefrontlinepodcast.buzzsprout.com/
• YouTube:  frontlinestrongtogether2346
• Facebook: FrontlineStrongTogether and Minds on the Frontline
• Instagram:  mifst5 and FrontlinePodcast
• LinkedIn:  Frontline-Strong-Together-5 and Minds on the Frontline Podcast 

In this episode, we welcome back Ashley Freeman, an EMT, mental health advocate, and volunteer with the Northwest Michigan Peer Support Network. Drawing from personal loss, including the suicide of her father and his mentor, Ashley shares her journey of resilience and her mission to support frontline workers in northwest Michigan. Her unique perspective as both a first responder and someone who has experienced profound grief offers a powerful voice to this discussion. For more of her story, revisit Episode 13, “Ashley’s Story.” (Link to E13: https://tinyurl.com/nhjfaz2h).

We are also joined by Manisha Leary, FST5 Program Manager and trauma-focused therapist, whose expertise has been instrumental in supporting Michigan’s frontline workers. Manisha brings practical, trauma-informed insights into managing the emotional toll of frontline work, offering strategies to process grief and build resilience. Together, Ashley and Manisha guide us through a compassionate conversation about overcoming tragedy and the critical role of connection and peer support.

This episode addresses the emotional aftermath of recent tragedies and explores practical ways to support peers and families affected by loss. By validating emotions like anger and guilt while providing actionable strategies for fostering connection and healing, this discussion offers essential tools for building resilience and solidarity within the frontline worker community.

Minds on the Frontline Podcast is brought to you by the Frontline Strong Together 5 Program. FST5 provides streamlined access to behavioral and mental health services, as well as crisis resources for Michigan’s frontline workers and their families.  NEED HELP NOW? If you are a frontline worker in Michigan or an immediate family member experiencing any crisis, whether work-related, substance abuse, depression, relationships, finances, or other challenges, reach out by calling 1-833-34-STRONG or visit FST5.org for more information.

Minds on the Frontline is available on all podcast platforms and YouTube.  

• Link to YouTube episode:  https://tinyurl.com/vxhktj6w
• Link to Buzzsprout:  https://mindsonthefrontlinepodcast.buzzsprout.com/
• YouTube:  frontlinestrongtogether2346
• Facebook: FrontlineStrongTogether and Minds on the Frontline
• Instagram:  mifst5 and FrontlinePodcast
• LinkedIn:  Frontline-Strong-Together-5 and Minds on the Frontline Podcast 

In this episode, we welcome Ali Amirsadri, M.D., a respected psychiatrist and mental health advocate. Dr. A serves as the Professor and Associate Chair for Clinical Services in the Department of Psychiatry at Wayne State University, the Chief Medical Officer for the Wayne Health Department of Psychiatry, and the Director of the FST5 Program. Drawing on over 20 years in emergency psychiatry, Dr. A provides invaluable insights into the clinical aspects of grief and loss. He shares practical tools to support individuals, families, and first responders as they navigate the complexities of grief and healing.

Minds on the Frontline Podcast is brought to you by the Frontline Strong Together 5 Program. FST5 provides streamlined access to behavioral and mental health services, as well as crisis resources for Michigan’s frontline workers and their families.  NEED HELP NOW? If you are a frontline worker in Michigan or an immediate family member experiencing any crisis, whether work-related, substance abuse, depression, relationships, finances, or other challenges, reach out by calling 1-833-34-STRONG or visit FST5.org for more information.

Minds on the Frontline is available on all podcast platforms and YouTube.  

• Link to YouTube episode:  https://tinyurl.com/vxhktj6w
• Link to Buzzsprout:  https://mindsonthefrontlinepodcast.buzzsprout.com/
• YouTube:  frontlinestrongtogether2346
• Facebook: FrontlineStrongTogether and Minds on the Frontline
• Instagram:  mifst5 and FrontlinePodcast
• LinkedIn:  Frontline-Strong-Together-5 and Minds on the Frontline Podcast 

In this episode, we welcome Mike Wierenga, retired law enforcement officer, part-time firefighter, and co-founder of 2 The Rescue (TwoTheRescue.com). With over 31 years of public safety experience, Mike shares how his career shaped his passion for mental health advocacy and the mission of 2 The Rescue. We discuss his early experiences addressing frontline mental health challenges, the critical training and resources his organization provides for first responders and their families, and actionable strategies for departments to proactively support mental and behavioral health.

Minds on the Frontline Podcast is brought to you by the Frontline Strong Together 5 Program. FST5 provides streamlined access to behavioral and mental health services, as well as crisis resources for Michigan’s frontline workers and their families.  NEED HELP NOW? If you are a frontline worker in Michigan or an immediate family member experiencing any crisis, whether work-related, substance abuse, depression, relationships, finances, or other challenges, reach out by calling 1-833-34-STRONG or visit FST5.org for more information.

Minds on the Frontline is available on all podcast platforms and YouTube.  

• Link to YouTube episode:  https://tinyurl.com/vxhktj6w
• Link to Buzzsprout:  https://mindsonthefrontlinepodcast.buzzsprout.com/
• YouTube:  frontlinestrongtogether2346
• Facebook: FrontlineStrongTogether and Minds on the Frontline
• Instagram:  mifst5 and FrontlinePodcast
• LinkedIn:  Frontline-Strong-Together-5 and Minds on the Frontline Podcast