Responder Resilience

S6 E1 Breaking Barriers: The Journey Of A Trailblazer Guest Lillian Bonsignore

In this encore presentation of Responder Resilience, we revisit the compelling journey of retired FDNY EMS Chief Lillian Bonsignore, who recently took on the role of Commissioner of the New York City Fire Department. A trailblazer with a remarkable 31-year career, she became the first female to achieve a 4-star rank in FDNY history. In this informative episode, Commissioner Bonsignore shares intimate reflections on her challenges, triumphs, and the lessons learned throughout her extraordinary career. From navigating high-pressure EMS incidents to fostering resilience among her team, her insights offer a profound look at leadership and dedication. Join us for this thought-provoking conversation that explores the essence of emergency services through the lens of a true pioneer.Now available! Helping the Helpers: A Guide to Supporting First Responder Mental Wellness, our new book that equips you to build a First Responder-Centered Practice that works. https://a.co/d/dm0VS4QThanks to our resource partner, CRACKYL. Download the FREE CRACKYL App: http://crackyl.respondertv.comContact Responder Resilience:Phone: +1 844-344-6655Email: info@respondertv.comOur website with past episodes and more: https://www.respondertv.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ResponderResilienceLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responder-resilience-podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responder.tv/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/responderTV/

S5 E53 A Lifeline For NYC’s EMS with Guest Danielle Gustafson

In this episode of *Responder Resilience*, we sit down with Danielle Gustafson, the passionate Executive Director of the EMS FDNY Help Fund, a beacon of hope for New York City's Emergency Medical Technicians and Paramedics. These first responders confront an array of obstacles—from the relentless pressures of their job to the barriers in accessing the care they desperately need. Danielle reveals the unseen struggles these rescue warriors face, shedding light on how the Help Fund steps in during times of crisis—providing vital support systems in the wake of death, injury, illness, or hardship. We’ll explore the fund’s initiatives, including urgent counseling services and its monumental response during COVID-19, when it provided meals and shelter to those fighting on the frontlines. Throughout our conversation, we’ll tackle poignant questions: What do NYC’s EMS personnel truly need? How do their challenges differ from those faced by their fire counterparts? This episode unearths the raw truth behind the sirens, the silenced stories of sacrifice, and the unyielding resolve of those who answer the calls. Join us for a compelling dialogue that underscores not just the importance of mental and emotional support for our first responders, but why their well-being is essential for the safety of us all.Now available! Helping the Helpers: A Guide to First Responder Mental Wellness. Get your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1969267003EMS FDNY HELP FUND:Website: http://emsfdnyhelpfund.com/https://www.facebook.com/emsfdnyhf/https://www.linkedin.com/company/emsfdnyhelpfundhttps://www.instagram.com/ems.fdny.helpfund/Contact Danielle Gustafson:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedaniellegustafson/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedaniellegustafsonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellegustafson/Contact Responder Resilience:Phone: +1 844-344-6655Email: info@respondertv.comOur website with past episodes and more: https://www.respondertv.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ResponderResilienceLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responder-resilience-podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responder.tv/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/responderTV/

S5 E52 The Spiritual Side Of Responders And Military (Mini-Doc)

In this encore of our mini-documentary, Responder Resilience takes you on a profound journey into the heart of spirituality—a complex tapestry woven from the experiences of those who stand on the front lines of life and death: our First Responders and military personnel. They exist in a realm where courage meets chaos, and their harrowing encounters shape unique philosophies of resilience and meaning. Through their poignant stories, we witness the raw truth of trauma and the undeniable power of belief in transforming suffering into strength. From the burning buildings they rush into to the moments when they hold the hands of grieving families, these brave souls reveal how spirituality serves as both a lifeline and a guiding light. In a world often overshadowed by despair, their reflections offer an inspiring testament to the human spirit's quest for purpose amidst unimaginable pain. Tune in for insights that challenge our perceptions and invite us to contemplate the deeper connections that bind us all.Now available! Helping the Helpers: A Guide to First Responder Mental Wellness. Get your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1969267003Thanks to our resource partner, First Responder Project, whose no-cost first responder retreats offer you a chance to reclaim connection and learn vital skills. Take a stand for your well-being and the connections that matter most.  Learn more and register at FirstResponderProject.orgThanks to our resource partner, CRACKYL. Download the FREE CRACKYL App: http://crackyl.respondertv.comThanks also to our resource partner, FightCamp. Harness the strength of boxing to release stress, build resilience, and connect with a supportive community. For free shipping and a free month of membership, go to https://joinfightcamp.com/shop/ and use the code RRPONE.Contact Responder Resilience:Phone: +1 844-344-6655Email: info@respondertv.comOur website with past episodes and more: https://www.respondertv.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ResponderResilienceLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responder-resilience-podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responder.tv/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/responderTV/

S5 E51 We Eat Our Own: Navigating Betrayal And Adversity with Guest Autumn Schmidt

In this gripping episode, we dive deep into the heart and soul of Autumn Schmidt, a former police officer whose journey from the front lines of law enforcement to the forefront of women's empowerment is nothing short of remarkable. Autumn’s story is rich with the kind of raw vulnerability that reveals the gritty reality of betrayal and adversity in a profession that often demands unwavering strength. She candidly shares her battles—both physical and emotional—that shaped her path, including the brutal truth behind the phrase “we eat our own” that echoes through the corridors of law enforcement. With her business, "She's An Asset," Autumn isn’t just advocating for awareness; she’s igniting a movement that blends safety, confidence, and sisterhood into a powerful lifeline for women everywhere. Join us as we unravel the complexities of her experiences, the challenges women face in law enforcement, and the steadfast support systems that could reshape an industry. This episode promises an unfiltered exploration of resilience and empowerment that challenges the status quo and inspires us all to rise stronger together.Contact Autumn Schmidt:Website: https://shesanasset.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shesanasset/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theautumnschmidtLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/autumnclifford/Contact Responder Resilience:Phone: +1 844-344-6655Email: info@respondertv.comOur website with past episodes and more: https://www.respondertv.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ResponderResilienceLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responder-resilience-podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responder.tv/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/responderTV/

S5 E50 Beyond Cultural Competence: Real Talk From The Trenches with Guest Drew Masters

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 opens up about his darkest moments, including his near-suicide experience, and the transformative power of resilience and support.As a passionate advocate for mental wellness, Lt. Masters discusses the critical need for culturally competent clinicians who understand the unique pressures faced by those on the front lines. With his boots on the ground, he shares firsthand insights on how appropriate training can bridge the gap between responders and mental health professionals. Join us as we uncover what it truly takes to prepare the next generation of clinicians to effectively serve this critical population. Get ready for an episode that’s as real as it gets—where courage meets compassion, and hope rises from the ashes of despair.Contact Drew Masters:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comingoutofthestorm/Contact Responder Resilience:Phone: +1 844-344-6655Email: info@respondertv.comOur website with past episodes and more: https://www.respondertv.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ResponderResilienceLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responder-resilience-podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responder.tv/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/responderTV/