In this episode, we are joined by James Tignanelli, President of the Police Officers Association of Michigan (POAM), as we continue our Building FST5 series. James brings decades of experience representing law enforcement agencies across Michigan and working directly with frontline professionals. Through the lens of POAM, this conversation explores how shared challenges across law enforcement, fire, EMS, corrections, and 911 dispatch revealed the need for a coordinated statewide approach to mental and behavioral health support. James discusses how early collaboration with the Fraternal Order of Police and the Michigan Professional Fire Fighters Union helped shape the Frontline Strong Together 5 Program and why trust, culture, and system design matter if support is going to be used. We also discuss why effective care must go beyond critical incidents to address daily stress, family impact, sleep, physical health, and long-term wellness. This is the second episode in our Building FST5 series.
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.
