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/1969267003

Contact Danielle Gustafson:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedaniellegustafson/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedaniellegustafson

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellegustafson/

Contact Responder Resilience:
Phone: +1 844-344-6655
Email: info@respondertv.com
Our website with past episodes and more: https://www.respondertv.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ResponderResilience
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responder-resilience-podcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responder.tv/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/responderTV/

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/1969267003

Thanks 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.org

Thanks to our resource partner, CRACKYL. Download the FREE CRACKYL App: http://crackyl.respondertv.com

Thanks 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: +1 844-344-6655
Email: info@respondertv.com
Our website with past episodes and more: https://www.respondertv.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ResponderResilience
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responder-resilience-podcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responder.tv/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/responderTV/

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/theautumnschmidt

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/autumnclifford/

Contact Responder Resilience:
Phone: +1 844-344-6655
Email: info@respondertv.com
Our website with past episodes and more: https://www.respondertv.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ResponderResilience
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responder-resilience-podcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responder.tv/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/responderTV/

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: +1 844-344-6655
Email: info@respondertv.com
Our website with past episodes and more: https://www.respondertv.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ResponderResilience
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responder-resilience-podcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responder.tv/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/responderTV/

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 window,” a pivotal moment for transitioning from the high-pressure environment of the field to the safety of home.

We’ll tackle the dark side of the “I’m fine” mask and its impact on relationships, while exploring effective strategies that empower first responders to break through emotional shutdowns after tough shifts. This episode offers practical tools and proven methods to strengthen connections and resilience when it matters most.

Contact Erin Maccabee:

Website: https://erinmaccabee.com/

Podcast: https://erinmaccabee.com/podcast

Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/people/The-Flashpoint-Podcast/100078098165402/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theflashpointpodcast/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-maccabee-8a369160

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFlashpointPod

Contact Responder Resilience:
Phone: +1 844-344-6655
Email: info@respondertv.com
Our website with past episodes and more: https://www.respondertv.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ResponderResilience
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responder-resilience-podcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responder.tv/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/responderTV/

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 for recognition alongside firefighters and police, exploring the mental health toll and alarming turnover rates that have surged in the wake of the pandemic.

Anthony shares his firsthand experiences, revealing the challenging call volumes and the dire consequences of a system in crisis. With his candid insights and powerful stories, get ready for an unfiltered look at life on the front lines of EMS.

Contact Anthony Almojera:

Facebook: @anthonyalmojera

Instagram: @anthonyalmojera

Contact Responder Resilience:
Phone: +1 844-344-6655
Email: info@respondertv.com
Our website with past episodes and more: https://www.respondertv.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ResponderResilience
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responder-resilience-podcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responder.tv/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/responderTV/

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 health through open conversations on her radio show.

We also explore Erin’s experiences as a firefighter’s spouse and how that relationship shapes her support approach during the ups and downs of active duty. Learn how she manages the reentry phase when her partner returns from a shift and discover practical tips for discussing mental health with loved ones.

We also discuss the differences between coaching, peer support, and clinical therapy, highlighting how these roles intersect. Join us for a heartfelt discussion that champions healing and resilience within the first responder community.

Contact Erin Nugent:

Website: https://www.erinjanecoaching.com/

Radio: https://www.thethinlinerockstation.com/

Podcast:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/i-will-hold-space-for-your-darkness-a-first/id1709535359

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/erinjanecoaching

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erinjanecoaching

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-nugent-00a19a223/

Contact Responder Resilience:
Phone: +1 844-344-6655
Email: info@respondertv.com
Our website with past episodes and more: https://www.respondertv.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ResponderResilience
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responder-resilience-podcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responder.tv/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/responderTV/

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 the hidden symptoms of trauma, the unexpected triggers, and how these experiences can fuel personal growth. We’ll unpack the concept of Posttraumatic Growth—what it is, how it manifests, and the steps you can take to embark on this empowering journey. Are pain and resilience intertwined? Join us for an eye-opening discussion that redefines strength and sheds light on the powerful potential for transformation following adversity.

Contact Jennifer Spirito, LCSW:

Website: https://www.jenniferspiritolcsw.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifer_spirito_lcsw

Contact Bonnie Rumilly, LCSW, EMT:

Website: https://fctrt.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/agmllc2017

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bonnie-c-rumilly-lcsw-emt-b-certified-emdr-therapist-6a34b1268/

Contact Responder Resilience:
Phone: +1 844-344-6655
Email: info@respondertv.com
Our website with past episodes and more: https://www.respondertv.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ResponderResilience
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/responder-resilience-podcast/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/responder.tv/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/responderTV/