Minds on the Frontline Podcast

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 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.  Undeterred by his circumstances, Bryan embraced a new path, focusing on his abilities and the support of his community to adapt and thrive. 

Specializing in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, or EMDR, Bryan uses this innovative, evidence-based method to help individuals heal from traumatic experiences. EMDR therapy is unique, as it doesn't rely on talk therapy or medications. Instead, it's an interactive psychotherapy technique that uses a patient's own rapid, rhythmic eye movements. These movements dampen the power of emotionally charged memories of past traumatic events. As we dive deeper into today’s discussion, Bryan will share his experiences and his insights into EMDR, shedding light on its process, whom it can help, and why it's considered a significant breakthrough in the field of psychological treatment.

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 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.

The United Firefighters of Los Angeles City (UFLAC) Center for Health and Wellness is committed to the health and welfare of Los Angeles City Fire Department (LAFD) personnel and their families, providing round-the-clock access to mental health professionals, addiction specialists, and family therapists at no charge.  The Center also offers a robust Peer Support Program, featuring about 115 well-prepared peers, guaranteeing that no LAFD member or their family must handle life's hurdles in isolation.

During this episode , we exchange insights on effective mental and behavioral health support strategies.  This was a great opportunity to compare notes on what's been successful and what could be improved. Observing the parallels between the UFLAC Center's mission and the goals of the FST5 Program was enlightening, highlighting the universal need for robust support systems for those on the front lines of service. 

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 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.    

Larry is the Training and Safety Captain for the Rochester Hills Fire Department, a co-chair of the Michigan Professional Fire Fighters Union Safety and Health Committee, and a cancer survivor.  In addition, Larry is the State Director of Michigan for the Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN). The FCSN helps firefighters, EMS professionals, and their families cope with cancer. It is their goal to provide occupational cancer awareness, prevention training, and support for those dealing with cancer nationwide. Visit firefightercancersupport.org to join the fight today to educate, support, and make a difference.

Joe Warne is a firefighter and EMT at the Macomb Township Fire Department.  In addition, Joe is the President of Neighbors United which is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting firefighters battling cancer. The organization's main initiative is the #walkfortheRED annual fundraiser which is a 140-mile walk in full bunker gear that begins in Macomb Township, Michigan, and ends in Cascade, Michigan. Since its inception in 2019, Neighbors United has helped nearly 150 firefighting families affected by cancer, donating over $500,000. The group aims to raise funds to provide significant financial support to each firefighter and their family. Neighbors United emphasizes the higher cancer risk in firefighters due to exposure to carcinogens and strives to support those in the firefighting community who are affected by this disease. Visit walkforthered.org for more information and to donate!

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 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. Sheriff Clayton, an Eastern Michigan University alum, and seasoned law enforcement trainer, shares his insights on addressing mental and behavioral health challenges faced by frontline officers. We explore Washtenaw County's strategies for staff well-being, and Sheriff Clayton's advice for leaders on fostering a supportive work environment. This episode offers a deep dive into the personal and professional commitments of a dedicated public servant.

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 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.  Manisha Leary is the FST5 Program Manager and a therapist with a focus on trauma. 

In the life of a frontline worker, encounters with critical emergencies are a daily reality. These events are rare but carry immense risk, often leaving a lasting impact on the mental and behavioral health of those who serve on the front lines. Imagine being a firefighter trapped inside a structure fire.  Or a police officer in a high-stakes confrontation. Or an EMS provider attacked by a patient in the back of a moving ambulance. Aileen is fortunate to survive two separate potentially life-threatening events and she’s here to talk about what it was like to prepare for and overcome the weight of those incidents.  

In addition, Aileen will shed light on a pivotal transition for frontline workers: retirement. This significant life change, while a mark of successful service, comes with its own set of stresses and adjustments. Drawing from her own experience as a successful retiree, Aileen offers guidance to peers on navigating this transition gracefully, ensuring that the next chapter post-service is as fulfilling as the career that preceded it. 

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 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 EMT with UP Health Systems in Marquette, Michigan.  As residents, frontline workers, and Peer Support team members in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Kristie and Susan know firsthand about living and working in rural America.  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 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 

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 social work.  Once she completes her program, Ashley plans on becoming a therapist who works specifically with frontline workers.  Although she is currently living a healthy and happy life with a bright future, things were not always so positive for her.  Ashley always looked up to her father, Eric, a dedicated paramedic, and aspired to follow in his footsteps. As a child, Ashely’s dream was to one day become an EMT and work with her dad on the road.  However, life took a tragic turn when her father died by suicide in 2013. This profound loss would take years to overcome.  As a testament to her resilience, Ashley overcame her grief and achieved her EMT license in 2017. During her training, she found a mentor in Robert, her father's best friend and fellow paramedic. Robert's support was a comforting reminder of her father's legacy and pride in her strength and accomplishments. Yet, in a heartbreaking repetition of history, Robert too passed away by suicide shortly after Ashley completed her training. Despite these painful losses, Ashley continues to honor the memory of both her father and his best friend through her commitment as an EMT and future therapist for frontline workers.  During this episode, Ashley will tell her story of tragedy and eventual triumph.  Thank you, Ashley, for coming on the show and having the strength and bravery to tell your story.  

The 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 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.  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 Clinical Services.  We are also joined by Dr. Andrew King, whose extensive credentials speak volumes about his expertise in the field of toxicology, emergency medicine, and substance use disorder.  Dr. King is an Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine and medical toxicology at Wayne State University located in Detroit, Michigan.  He also serves as the Medical Director for the Tolan Park Opiate Treatment Program at Wayne Health, providing vital treatment options for those grappling with opioid addiction. His role as an In-Patient Addiction Medicine Service Provider at DMC Receiving Hospital Central Campus further underscores his commitment to combating substance use disorders head-on. Additionally, as the Medical Director for the Michigan Poison & Drug Information Center, Dr. King is at the forefront of addressing the immediate challenges posed by exposure to toxic chemicals and substances.

Dr. King and Dr. A are here to shed light on Substance Use Disorder, or SUD. Beyond the casual use of substances like a glass of wine or a social drink, SUD represents a significant shift. It's marked by an escalation in use that begins to affect every facet of life—from work and school to personal relationships.  It’s important to keep in mind that SUD isn't just about alcohol. It's about the excessive use of substances, including cannabis, sedatives, hypnotics, anxiolytics, inhalants, opioids, hallucinogens, stimulants, or any other substance that leads to academic, social, and occupational impairment.

During this episode, we’ll take a deep dive into how SUD 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 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 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, or FOP.  The FOP is the world’s largest organization of sworn law enforcement officers, with more than 367,000 members.  

During his 25+ year career, Scott Taylor has worked as a Patrol Officer, a School Resource Officer, a Field Training Officer, a Special Operation Unit member, a Crime Scene Technician, and served on the FBI Violent Crimes Task Force.  Scott is proud of all the positions he has served as a law enforcement officer for nearly three decades.  But in his words, providing peer support for his fellow police officers is the most important and impactful job he’s ever had.  

In this episode, Scott joins Mike, Manisha, and Geoff discuss the importance of the mental and behavioral health of frontline workers.  

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 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 frontline Peer Support Teams.  They’ll also describe how first responders can access a team for help.  Finally, Mike and Manisha will discuss the process of starting and maintaining a frontline Peer Support Team. 

The Minds on the Frontline Podcast is brought to you by the Wayne State University Frontline Strong Together Program.  The Minds on Frontline Podcast is designed to inform, educate, and entertain first responders, their families, and the public regarding the realities of frontline work-related mental health challenges. 

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