Shows
Beyond the 1st ResponseEP 80: Keep Your Head Above Your Feet - Dr. Cherylynn LeeIn this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Christy talks with Dr. Cheylynn Lee, a police Psychologist specializing in operations and officer wellness.The StartWhen Cherylynn first started as a Psychologist, she volunteered at Santa Barbra Sheriff’s Department, bringing her skills to Sheriff’s Department as a way to differ them the experience of mental wellness in the field. Just a few years later, she wrote her own job description and created a force to be recokoned with. ...2024-09-3054 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 79: Stepping into a relationship with TraumaIn this Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy and Ciara talked about moving forward after loss and trauma.Communicating TraumasChristy and Ciara talked about how talking about your traumas is essential in healing, helping your mental health, and how you could be helping someone. Holding in your feelings and not talking about the things hurting you is part of the stigma, and why we talk so much about communicating them i...2024-07-2333 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 78: Beneath the Badge Family Style - Dave DykeIn this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Christy and Ciara talk with Dave Dyke, a form police officer from Minnesota, about life Beneath the Badge.They Didn’t AskDave had been struggling with the calls piling up inside him over the years. Until one day, he just couldn’t take it anymore. After having a mental health crisis, he spends five days inpatient at a behavioral health facility. He went in a Mond...2024-05-1755 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 77: The Three C'sIn this Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy and Ciara talked about moving forward after loss and trauma.The 3 C’sChristy and Ciara talked about how moving forward can be so hard, but having healthy relationships with significant others and friends and family can be achieved after loss and trauma. They talked about how, even while using healthy tools, a relationship can still struggle in unspoken ways.The 3 C’s are perfect examples of how to co...2024-04-221h 10Beyond the 1st ResponseEP 76: Blue Grit Wellness- Eric TungGetting Blue Grit In this Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy had a profound discussion with Eric Tung, a highly respected police commander, department wellness coordinator, and peer support leader. They delved into the crucial topic of open conversations and the need to normalize processing the events that occur at work and home, a subject Eric is particularly well-versed. Blue Grit WellnessEric, has been straightforward with the need to hav...2024-04-171h 04Beyond the 1st ResponseEP 75: The Calling- Greg PodolakIn today’s Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy and Ciara talked with Greg Podolak, a blended clinician for first responders at Halfwild Counseling. The Calling to HelpGreg’s story is inspiring and humbling at the same time. Greg came from a family of first responders and had his sights set on being a police officer. His dad was a New York City officer who served on 9/11. His brother is also an officer. However, during h...2024-03-281h 00Beyond the 1st ResponseEP 74: Is This The End? Elizabeth Fiorenza Part 2In this Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy and Ciara talked with Elizabeth Fiorenza, Anaheim Firefighters Association. Is This The End? In this episode, Christy and Ciara continue the conversation with Elizabeth about her and Matty’s relationship, her personal struggles, and what may have been the end.Elizabeth recalls the day Matty had tried to take his life, and she had decisions to make. Death or divorce. Elizabeth knew Matty needed help but was a...2024-03-2244 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 73: Face to Face with the Past - Elizabeth FiorenzaIn this Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy and Ciara talked with Elizabeth Fiorenza, Anaheim Firefighters Association. The Past Comes Forward In this episode, Christy and Ciara had hard and raw talks with Elizabeth about how her past trauma came forward to a head with her relationship with Matty and how she worked through her traumas, both the past and present, to be part of the change in their marriage.Elizabeth shared some emotional and...2024-03-1548 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 72: In the Dark You Can Find Your Purpose - Matt FiorenzaIn this Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy and Ciara talked with Matthew Fiorenza retired City of Anaheim Firefighter.Struggles, Resilience, and PurposeDuring his years at the Anaheim Fighter Department, Matty Fiorenza has learned to overcome and find strength in resiliency. He opened up about the traumas and battles he fought within himself. Matty shared the failures in his personal life because of addiction and PTSD and the consequences of it, along with not being able to face his traumas. Fiorenza has...2024-03-051h 04Beyond the 1st ResponseEP 71: Guardian Garage Not Just For CarsIn this Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy and Ciara spoke to Craig Lewis, former police officer and co-founder of Guardian GarageA Wake Up We had the pleasure of meeting Craig, former police officer for Maricopa County Sheriff Office where he served for 24 years. He spoke on how he used unhealthy tools after a shift, while knowing what he was doing but not knowing really how to change it. Craig had his own lingering issues from incidents on the job that were affecting his everyday life...2024-02-2152 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 70: In Honor of BrittanyIn this Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy and Ciara spoke to Kelly Klaber, a First HELP family member. A Mother’s Pain To say we had the honor of speaking to Kelly is an understatement. This was the first time since Brittany took her life that she has told their story. February 12th 2017 a mother’s worst nightmare unfolded. Kelly was notified that Brittany had died by suicide. Kelly shared with us how her days and weeks unfolded after. What she learned about B...2024-02-1248 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 69: The Calling of the ChaplainIn this Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy and Ciara enjoyed talking to Chaplain Chaz Blackburn, a Nevada chaplain who advocates for First Responders and their family's mental wellness.Being a Chaplain According to Chaz, being a Chaplain has done more for him personally than it has done for our community. He states this because, as he is raising his daughter, he has been able to take some of the tools he has learned and use them n...2024-02-0749 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 68: Stigma ThisIn this Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy and Ciara had a conversation about a quote from a police chief that they read and how that mindset does damage to first responders.Words Can Sting“Our focus is to get our officers back to work where they can put it behind them the best they can” was a direct quote from a police chief after 3 officers were involved in a shooting and the suspect died. Of course, the focus is for officers to get back to work...2024-01-3025 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 67: So You Want to Volunteer and Give BackIn this Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy and Ciara thought they would change it up to give listeners great ways to get involved in their community and beyond.Giving BackGiving back to your community or something you hold near and dear to your heart can be a healthy and rewarding life experience. Simple gestures for your local first responders up to volunteering at your local TIPS organization are all great things. Support your local AFSP walks to help end...2024-01-2425 min
Beyond the 1st ResponseEP 66: Amy's Story - Amy RowIn this Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy and Ciara had the pleasure to speak to Amy Row. The wife of former police officer Vance Row whom we had on the show previously. The Hard TalksWe got to meet Vance and hear his story last week, and today we got to meet his wife Amy. As we always say “we are here to have a conversation” and that is just what Amy did with Vance to help save him. Amy shared what it was...2024-01-1750 min
Beyond the 1st ResponseEP: 65 Namaste Your Why- Vance RowIn this Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy and Ciara had the pleasure to speak to Vance Row, a retired police officer who is now a dispatcher and yoga instructor. Physical & Mental Injuries Vance told us his story of his years in policing, injuries on the job, and how he used alcohol to cope. He went through his lowest points and how he contemplated taking his life. His wife was the one to speak up and show him what he was doing. Vanc told us how when remembers in his ac...2024-01-1058 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 64: What is Your Financial Mindset?In this Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy and Ciara speak about how your finances can affect your overall mental health. Finances and Mental HealthThe stressors of debt and the “control” over finances can burden and weigh you down, while also affecting your relationships. While debts can be avoided, some can not, learning how to manage and budget your finances can help ease the stressors, and positively help your overall mental health. There is even a stigma of debt that keeps people from asking for help. Peopl...2023-12-1950 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 63: Are you stepping on your bar?In this Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy and Ciara speak about how setting your “bar high” can help you be mentally and physically healthier. Are you stepping over your bar?Christy and Ciara talked openly about how changing the “height” of your bar can positively affect your life. So many times in life we find ourselves settling out of our comfort and maybe even fear. But how does that negatively affect your professional and personal life? More often than not...2023-12-1434 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 62: I am a Recovering KarenIn this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Christy and Ciara talk about the negative mindset and how to overcome Misanthropy. MisanthropeAccording to the Webster's Dictionary, Misanthrope is a person who hates people. We may have a lot of hostility going around in a world that just doesn’t let us catch up and take a breath. Are you a recovering Karen, or are you still stuck in the world of I hate people?2023-11-2732 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 61: Where the Thankfulness is!In this Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy and Ciara speak about the challenges of the Holidays in First Responder familiesHealthy Family DynamicIn a healthy family dynamic it is understood that the first responder will not be able to be home on the day, especially as rookies, or if you are in an on-call position. We say healthy family dynamic, because a healthy supportive family understands the new normal without pressure or anger for your job serving the community.2023-11-2130 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 60: 911, I am Ready to Talk - Nancy ValleeIn this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Christy talks with Nancy Vallee, a retired 911 dispatcher of 21 years. Nancy speaks frankly about transitioning from first responder life to retired, new career, and finding the new you!RetirementNancy started a career as a realtor before retirement, getting her license, selling homes, and preparing for the future. What she didn’t plan on was the barrage of emotional deflation. Newly married, new home, new career, all great things happening, you can’t help but think, this is going to b...2023-11-1337 minBeyond the 1st ResponseYou Have The Right To Go On Living - Dave BetzIn this Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy and Ciara speak with Captain Dave Betz of the Chelsea Police Department and coping with the loss of his son to suicide. Police FamilyDave has served as a police officer for over 36 years. 35 of them with Chelsea Police Department. Dave speaks about his years of service, and the traumas on the job. How not just him but the department handled them. Like many others with years of service, he would compartmentalize and not d...2023-10-1649 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 58: The Running Change - Sgt. Alonzo MontanyaIn this Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy and Ciara discuss Sgt Alonzo Montanya's dedication to the Dutchess County Sheriff’s Office to break the mental health stigma in his department and countrywide. Mental Health Advocate Alonzo has had his struggles. His second change has given him a tool that many don't understand. Alonzo has been at rock bottom like those he helps on the street and in the department. they have help...2023-10-0944 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 57: My Story Is My Voice- Sara ClowSara Clow: My Story Is My VoiceIn this Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy and Ciara chat with Sara Clow about how her life changed five years ago and what she’s doing now for change. She is a remarkable human who shows such resilience!Her StoryWe talked with Sara about her story and courage to speak up. She lost her law enforcement husband just over five years ago to suicide, and th...2023-10-0253 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 56: It's Not Just The MeatballsIn this Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy and Ciara discuss First Responder Suicide Awareness Week and the First Responder children. Grab the meatball and start rolling. #HonorthemThe ChildrenWe talk about First Responder Awareness often, not only to help break the stigma of mental health in the first responder world but also to teach tools that can help the survivors of suicide. Suicide is uncomfortable; anyway, you put it. Some people will talk about it, and some will react like it is a dirty little secret. What...2023-09-2636 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 55: From The Mouth Of A Child - Leslie MaginnIn this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Christy and Ciara talk with Leslie Maginn, daughter of J. Daniel Maginn EOW 7/9/93.We had the hard talks with Leslie about how being a child of a police officer who died by suicide has affected her life and the trickle of effects of not dealing with the trauma. Much like how our first responders deal with trauma, Leslie did so too. We had deep talks of her dark places and how she too avoided dealing with the grief, even as a young child. 2023-09-1251 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 54: We are FamilyIn this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Christy and Ciara talk about the family weekend in Dallas Texas. First H.E.L.P. FamilyEvery year family members who have lost a first responder to suicide are able to attend a weekend of honoring their loved ones. While seeing the people who have become their family. We talk about how this year the sessions were mixed among family members, and how awesome the sessions were. We go...2023-09-0732 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 53: Fighting the Fire for Sobriety - Pat SheaIn this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Christy and Ciara talk with Firefighter Pat Shea about his rock bottom and how he has dedicated himself to getting healthy, and how to help others.Pat, a former Firefighter for Little Rock Arkansas fire department, was injured on the job; from there his life tumbled out of control, to the point of no longer being a fireman and losing everything to addiction. Pat met the demons of addiction, and fought his way back to sobriety, and is now a Firefighter with the...2023-08-2154 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 52 - Hey You Listen To YourselfIn this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Christy and Ciara talk about how actively listening doesn’t just mean listen to others, but also to yourself. Christy and Ciara chatted this week about active listening, and how actively listening can help not just you but your relationships. How it is healthy to listen to yourself, what you need and what you chose to do for yourself.Having active conversations is so important for the mental health aspect in all areas of life, including you...2023-08-0143 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEp 51: Recognize the Good in the PastIn this Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy and Ciara chat about recognizing the good, in literally just about everything!You can see the good!It is so incredibly healthy and healing in recognizing the good, even in the bad situations. But also recognizing that you can’t look past the bad because of the good.As Christy finds the good in her ghosts…what can you find the good in? It may have been a “bad day with a bad call”. But if you are learning with your too...2023-07-2528 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 50: Tim Sears - C.A.N.I.In this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Christy and Ciara talk with a Retired Fire Investigator and Stronger Families Director, Tim Sears.PTSITim talked about his struggles with PTSI and how he now helps families and first responders build healthy relationships through Stronger Families. Sears Speaks about how their “wheelhouse” is relationships and helping strengthen those relationships, which goes hand in hand within the communities while creating a space for spouses to connect with...2023-07-1858 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 49: When Family Speaks*** There is conversation that may be to Triggering ***In this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Christy and Ciara talk with a family member about the fight to save her family, while trying to get help for her former spouse.Jody We are using the name Jody, to protect the family as they are still going through this situation. The strength it takes to speak up and fight to be heard is admirable.FamilyJ...2023-07-1048 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 48: Harry Fagel- The Route You ChooseIn this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Christy and Ciara talk with retired Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Captain Harry FagelThey spoke with Harry about his trauma’s and how he has handled them through the years. How he has written poetry as his release and to help him through his hard times. That it is his healthy outlet and how important it is to him, even years later still writing and performing his poetry. They spoke on the poem he wrote and performed after the Oc...2023-07-031h 03Beyond the 1st ResponseEP 47 Miscommunication - Part two of Mental Wellness Wear DownIn this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Christy and Ciara talk about the effects of miscommunication and your mental wellness.They broke down the basis of miscommunication and how it can not just affect your mental health but your life overall. How much your anxiety, depression, PST (D) (I), can be affected by miscommunication, and cause even more anxiety and turmoil. It is an emotional spiral that can be avoided. Have active listening and open conversations. Miscommunication can come i...2023-06-2644 min
Too Legitimate to Quit: Growth Strategies with a Pop Culture SpinOn Magnetism, Genius & Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist (feat. Mellissa Seaman)Feeling frustrated and overwhelmed with your current marketing efforts? Exhausted by constantly chasing after the latest trend or tactic without seeing any real results? Or just wondering how and when to let your "freak flag" or "woo badge" fly for maximum effect? You are not alone!
If you've invested in expensive advertising campaigns or poured hours into social media posts, but your audience just isn't engaging or converting, this episode is for you! This week, Annie P. is joined by Stanford-educated lawyer turned Earth Wisdom Ceremonialist and quiz funnel builder extraordinaire, Mellissa Seaman! A true bridge between the...2023-06-2259 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 46 Close the Mental TabsThis week Christy and Ciara talk about compassion fatigue in a first responder home. We will take a look at the reasons and ways to overcome burnout.Compassion Fatigue/ Caregiver Burn-outAt home point in our lifetime, everyone will struggle with Compassion Fatigue/Caregiver Burnout. What causes Caregiver Fatigue? Well, honestly, life is how we take care of ourselves and our families in the process of life. According to the article from BetterUp, lack of control, lack of perceived choice...2023-06-1937 min
The Smart 7 Ireland EditionThe Standout 7 - Tributes to Aslan’s Christy Dignam, Budget planning begins, Partygate report paints Boris as a liar and Trump indicted in MiamiThe Smart 7 Ireland Edition is the daily news podcast that gives you everything you need to know in 7 minutes, at 7am, 7 days a week… Consistently appearing in Ireland’s Daily News charts, we’re a trusted source for people every day. If you’re enjoying it, please follow, share or even post a review, it all helps… Today's episode includes references to the following items:https://twitter.com/i/status/1668250165944147969https://twitter.com/i/status/1668220275706458112https://twitter.com/i/status/1667808759479951360 https://twitter.com/i/status/16681...2023-06-1713 min
The Smart 7 Ireland EditionMusic Icon Christy Dignam dies, Government defend Data Centres, Trump indicted in Miami on 37 federal charges and Disney release trailer for new animated movie ElioThe Smart 7 Ireland Edition is the daily news podcast that gives you everything you need to know in 7 minutes, at 7am, 7 days a week… Consistently appearing in Ireland’s Daily News charts, we’re a trusted source for people every day. If you’re enjoying it, please follow, share or even post a review, it all helps… Today's episode includes references to the following items:https://twitter.com/i/status/1668621311793324032https://twitter.com/i/status/1668556424815812609https://twitter.com/i/status/1668669519403819008 https://twitter.com/i/status/16685...2023-06-1407 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 45: Family Connection - Joette DoyleThis week Christy talks with Joette Doyle, a family member of a first responder that served for 36 years in the Fire Department. While serving, he lost his sister, mother, and brother to illness and his daughter to suicide. Silence SpeaksJoette had known her boyfriend for over 20 years. Although being together for 13 years, she has watched the change in communication and inability to process and ask for help for himself. How do you get through to someone who doesn’t talk abo...2023-06-1340 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 44: Challenge AcceptedThis week Christy and Ciara talked about the mental wellness of the family, including children andfriends of 1st Responders. Ending Mental Health Awareness month they touched on all the stressors ofevery day life, and how even children can be affected by this.How everyone can suffer differently through depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, and various othermental health hurdles we can all go through. Learning how to go through life with healthy coping skillsand how to help your children.According to studies “1 in 5 adults live with a mental illness, and ove...2023-06-0546 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 43: Thank You For Your ServiceIn this Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy and Ciara the meaning of Memorial Day.Never ForgetWe should never forget why we celebrate this holiday, thank you to all our brave men andwomen who have given the ultimate sacrifice for our country!Decoration DayChristy and Ciara chatted about how Memorial Day was originally celebrated and held by the2023-05-2919 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 42: Communication ElephantIn this Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy and Ciara discuss communication after suicide and the elephant it causes in relationships.Welcome aboardCiara Madrid, one of our many volunteers, has now taken the role of co-host on Beyond the 1st Response. I am excited to have her knowledge, and determination, to break the stigma of mental wellness in first responders and their families.The Misunderstanding of tip-toeing around SuicideIt will also feel uncomfortable to talk about someone...2023-05-2351 min
The Teacher Cast#39: Digging deeper into SAF'sIn this week's episode, Adam chats returning to running and watching the Eurovision, and Hayley recaps on her night out in Dublin with the girls! In this episode, we answer some of you questions about the S.A.F. as well as looking at the letter of application! We also discussed our resources of the week - as always, we hope you enjoy!
Find Hayley:
Instagram (@theteacherstudent): https://www.instagram.com/theteacherstudent/?hl=en
Instagram (@theteachercast): https://www.instagram.com/theteachercast/?hl=en
TikTok (@theteacheredit)
Mash...2023-05-1639 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 41: Doug Lowe- Fueling FirefightersIn this Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy and Ciara talk with Doug Lowe founder of EMMP about his new venture to fuel Firefighters while they fight forest fires in the Pacific Northeast.For The Love of CookingDoug has taken his passion for restaurants and cooking to an all-new level; fueling those that are fighting wildfires. For the past 20-plus years, he has done everything from busboy, to chef and back again. The desire to keep...2023-05-0858 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 40: Dwayne English - From Cop to CouchIn this Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy talks with Sgt. Dwayne English of Joliet Police Department IL, about how being a cop has made him a better counselor.Dream CopSince the age of six, Dwayne had wanted to become a cop. Living his dream, he saw the stress of being a first responder both in the community and at home. Achieving a bachelors in psychology, he has worked hard to bring mental wellness into the department on all...2023-04-2657 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 39: Chris Marella - Making Healthy Easy; A Little Bit A TimeIn this Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy talks with Chris about starting 4th Shift Fitness in 2017 with the goal of bringing these lessons directly to the front lines. Go to 4thShiftFitness.com to see how to get in touch and set up a seminar, training session, or digital personal training.Tailboard Talks PodcastChris started his podcast Tailboard Talks Podcast, after recording videos on YouTube talking about mental health, fitness, and firefighting. Bringing tools for balancing t...2023-04-1137 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 38: Valerie Groth - Stellate Ganglion Block Part 2In this Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy and Steve talk with Valerie Groth, Director of Partnerships at Stella Center. Part 2 of the Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB)SGB- What is different nowChristy decided to have the SGB after struggling with PTSD for over 30 years. The results have been amazing. After the first episode on the SGB, and researching it, she was ready to take the leap.2023-03-2750 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 37: Wendy Hummell - Breathe, Life is UncomfortableIn this Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy talks with Wendy Hummel Podcast Host of Guns and Yoga. Wendy, a wellness coordinator for Sedwick County Sheriff Department in Kansas, brings her first responder yoga to the wellness program she has built. Grab your tool bag, we are handing you some new tools for living a resilient life. Yoga Wendy has been doing yoga for 15 years. After realizing the benefits it has had on her, during the stress of their job and personal life, she became a cer...2023-03-1436 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 36: Jillian Bass - Find The PositiveIn this Beyond the 1st Response episode, Christy talks with Jillian Bass, a radio host for Star 96.7 Fm. Jillian experienced an event that opened her up to understand that mental wellness is a top priority and has created a platform on her midday show for all her listeners.Porta PottyAfter a night baseball game at the local community park, life changed instantly. “Hide behind the porta potty, get down, get down!” Bass remembers screaming. Plainfield, Illinois the t...2023-03-071h 00Beyond the 1st ResponseEP 35: Becca Willey - While You Are AwayEP 35: Becca Willey- While you are away..In this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Christy talks with Becca Willey, an army wife, mother of three, business owner, and board member of Naperville Salute, and organizations, that celebrate Veterans and First Responses raising money to give back to the veterans in the Chicagoland area.18 Month Countdown Becca has been through this drill before, deployment, time apart, and back together. This time, deployment comes, 18 m...2023-02-2855 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 34: Jennifer Anderson - I'm Good! What does that mean to You?In this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Christy talks with Jennifer Anderson of First Responder Coaching candidly about her WHY in understanding the need for coaching as an option for preparing for what the job does to you and your family.How We MetJennifer and Kevin met in college, she was attending for an education degree. He was going for his criminal justice degree, they fell in love, got married, and life began. The local police department hired Kevin, and one...2023-02-2156 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 33: It's Ok to Feel Your Feelings - Jason PattonIn this episode of Beyond the First Response, Christy and Robyn talk with Firefighter Jason Patton of Fire Department Chronicles and Fire Department Coffee.Jason17 year veteran FF Jason Patton uses his personal struggles with mental health as motivation for his often ‘art imitating life’ take on firefighting in the wildly popular “Fire Department Chronicles” videos. Whether you are a first responder or a civilian surfing You Tube, you will no doubt find yourself smiling and laughing. Seriously, Who Does This?Sometimes during a call, you look...2022-12-2250 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 32: Living in the In-BetweenIn this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Christy and Robyn talk with Molly Jones; Clinical Educations Coordinator, and Hannah Elmore, MSW of Advanced Recovery Systems (ASR) on the recovery programs for first responders.IAFF Center of ExcellenceASR, in partnership with IAFF, opened the IAFF Center of Excellence facilities for active and retired firefighters struggling with mental health. While the facilities specialize in PTSD for professional fire service members who struggle with trauma, substance use, addiction and other related behavioral health challenges, treatment will vary depending on the severity...2022-12-121h 02Beyond the 1st ResponseEP 31: Valerie Groth and Jess Anderson- SGB and Me #BT1RIn this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Christy and Robyn talk to Valerie Groth, MSW, MA Director of Partnerships at Stella Center and Alameda County Fire Department Captain Jess Anderson about Stellate Ganglion Block injections.SGBSGB is an injection of local anesthetic into the stellate ganglion, a nerve bundle in the neck connected to the fight or flight response system, to help people feel calm again in their bodies. Stella’s definition What is Has Done for MeAfter years of working with a therapist to...2022-11-281h 12Beyond the 1st ResponseEP 30: Dr Calvin Paries- The Truth About EAP #BT1RIn this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Christy and Robyn talk to Calvin Paries, DR, PH, LMFT, CEAP, who oversees a Profile EAP for Centura Health.The Myth About EAP“Why would you call the EAP? Now HR is going to know that you are struggling.” This is often a misconception for many, but especially in the first responder world. The truth is, HR doesn’t have access to who uses the EAP, just the number of people that do. Who is privy to the information that you may have contacted EAP is rea...2022-11-141h 05
The Mind Yourself PodcastThe Mind Yourself Podcast #68 - UCD: MSc Psychological ScienceIn this episode Christy sits down with Dayna and Ciara who have worked on the Motus team to discuss their experience in UCD, Dublin for their Psychological Science Masters.
The focus of this programme is on acquiring basic applied psychology skills to equip you for doctoral studies in clinical, counselling, educational or organisational psychology, or for progressing to a PhD in psychological research. Over the course of the year students work with a staff member to complete a research project. In keeping with the skills-based focus of the programme, the research is written up as a journal ar...2022-11-0327 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 29: Robert Swiderski- 22 Districts 48 HoursEP 29: Robert Swiderski- 22 Districts 48 hours #BT1RIn this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Christy and Robyn talk to Robert Swideraski, a son of a Chicago Police officer. He has started Running for Blue Lives after seeing the effects of living in a first responder home firsthand.22 DistrictsChicago PD has 22 districts and 12,000 police officers throughout the city. Robert's Father and Uncles served on the Chicago PD, so his mission is to thank all the police officers...2022-11-011h 09Beyond the 1st ResponseEP 28: Mike Marotta - San Antonio Public Safety Shift #BT1RIn this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Christy talks with Mike Marotta, the First H.E.L.P. Training Coordinator. Mike is a former San Antonio Police Officer. 20 Months 8 SuicidesAfter six officers died by suicide in the past six months, with eight officers in 20 months, the problem could not be dismissed anymore. Fox 29 News in San Antonio helps to give a voice to officers and their families. The Public Safety Advisory Board called a meeting and questioned what the mental health protocol is for the police and f...2022-10-2535 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 27: Danny McGuire Jr - Built to Serve #BT1RIn this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Christy and Robyn talk to retired Chicago police Sgt Danny McGuire Jr. Now a professor at Calumet College and intern therapist at Augustine Wellness Center, he hosts his own podcast, Everyday Warriors.SupportDanny wants to talk to you when you are in trouble, regardless of what it is. Understanding that this is just a moment in time, support is everything; working through the emotions with someone who is there to listen is important. McGuire can accomplish this at Augustine...2022-10-101h 20Beyond the 1st ResponseEP 26: Debbie Green - Silent No More #BT1RIn this episode of Beyond the 1st Response Christy and Robyn talk to Debbie Green, a retired Public Safety Dispatcher 2 who wants to let everyone know the time has come to not stay quiet about mental health.The HeadsetDebbie admits that she would often picture the scene much worse than it was. Dispatchers don't deal with just one call, they could be listening to up to 100 calls a day, rarely having the peace of mind knowing the outcome. The industry still does not recognize the amount of training it takes to prepare...2022-09-261h 01Beyond the 1st ResponseEP 25: Tracy Vitalo-Harwell - Shift That Space #BT1RIn this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Christy and Robyn talk to Tracy Vitalo-Harwell CPH-T, from Inspired Change Hypnosis and coaching about how hypnosis can “shift that space” and how it helps first responders.What Happened To You When You Were A Child?It doesn’t start when you become a first responder. That changes you, yes. The true question is, what happened to you when you were a child? The root of most struggles is what happened earlier in life. We become angry...2022-09-121h 03Beyond the 1st ResponseEP 24: Ashlee Guthner - My Dad Is A First Responder #BT1RIn this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Christy and Robyn talk with Ashlee Gethner LCSW and first responder daughter who has her own private practice, Calming Waves Therapy. First, I am a First Responder DaughterAshlee is currently working on her doctrine, focusing on first responders and their families. As a child of a now-retired police officer, she can see both sides of the badge and the struggles that occur. She carries pride and honor with her knowing the difference first responders ma...2022-08-2958 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 23: Jim Marshall- Let's Roll With ItIn this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Christy and Robyn talk with Jim Marshall, CEO of 911 Training Institute. Just Jump Right InJim Marshall has a fantastic insight into what is happening inside our heads. With a Masters in Psychology and years of counseling couples under his belt, he began to focus on dispatcher wellness along with his sister Deborah, a retired dispatcher. Together they identified a training gap on how to keep themselves grounded after the 911 calls pile u...2022-08-151h 04Beyond the 1st ResponseEP 22: Shawn and Jeff Thomas - 1st Responder Conferences #BT1R In this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Christy and Robyn talk with retired police officer and 1st Responder Conferences founder Shawn Thomas and her husband Jeff Thomas on what inspired her to form her company. I Don’t Care What People Think Jeff grew up in the culture where drinking is what you do as years on the job begin to mentally take their toll. Over time, he realizes that his drinking is likely being perpetuated by department culture and internal decision making. Jeff knew he couldn’t continue down t...2022-08-0149 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 21: Jim Schlicher - The One Thing We Know Is Death #BT1RIn this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Christy and Robyn talk with retired Police Sargeant/Firefighter-Paramedic Jim Schlicher current training instructor for Calibre Press on what it is like to experience death on the job and off the job. Don’t Be Afraid Of DeathAs First Responders, we deal with death, weekly on the job. Often not even blinking an eye, it’s part of the job that becomes a normal occurrence. Death is a par...2022-07-181h 00Beyond the 1st ResponseEP 20: Crystal Street - Calls That Crack The Shield #BT1RIn this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Christy and Robyn talk with Dispatcher and First H.E.L.P. volunteer about being a first responder child and becoming a first responde herself. North Hollywood ShootoutFebruary 28th, 1997 became a day that changed many lives. Crystal was only 5 years old in when the infamous North Hollywood shootout occurred. On scene was her father Sgt. Israel Sonny Medina was an 18yr veteran of the Los Angeles Police Department. Sgt. Israel Sonny Medina was the Sergeant on shift o...2022-07-0454 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 19: Bob Barc- Clearing The Rolodex #BT1RIn this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Christy and Robyn discuss with Bob Barc, a Firefighter, who has a passion for peer support and clearing the mental RolodexThe RolodexBob started his firefighting career in a small town. The lessons started there, along with many experiences that developed his understanding of clearing the mental Rolodex. The Brain is much like a Rolodex, it pushes things back, so it gets lost among other events in life that push the old farther back. Barc...2022-06-201h 11Beyond the 1st ResponseEP 18: Mike Jones Badge Brew- Roasting Good Leaders #BT1RIn this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Christy and Robyn discuss with Mike Jones Police Officer, and Badge Brew Roaster the importance of finding grace in yourself, through proper processing and leadership.Profiling The CoffeeAt 22 years old and on the night shift, Mike would drink the 24-hour market coffee. Finding himself, adding more and more flavors, and sweeteners, just to get the coffee down. After starting at the Evanston police department, he started going into...2022-06-081h 03Beyond the 1st ResponseEP 17: Keith Contant - We Are Talking We Are Growing And GrowingIn this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Christy and Robyn discuss with retired Firemen/Police Officer Keith Contant. He talks about how he unknowingly was providing peer support. Contant now has taken that to a new level with his organization First Responder Peer Initiative30 Years of ServiceKeith spent 30 years as a Chicago Fireman and part-time Police Officer. Contant got to know how both fields deal with processing or not deal with processing the calls they go on. Struggling at times, he realized he had to change...2022-05-251h 04Beyond the 1st ResponseEP 16: Matt Thornton - And Then... There Was A Sign #BT1RIn this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Robyn and Christy have a discussion with Zion, IL Police Officer Matt Thornton. He talks about what it’s like to be working the very same streets on which he grew up. Thornton went from a cop in crisis to a cop in Christ, giving back to the new generation of street kids finding their way, through his non for profit My Father’s BusinessRookie Season:It’s funny to hear a cop has a rookie season, but it is a s...2022-05-111h 01Beyond the 1st ResponseEP 15: Chris Moore - The Mental Bucket Trap #BT1RIn this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Robyn and Christy have a discussion with Chesapeake, VA Fire Captain Chris Moore about your mental bucket overflowing into a dark place. Chris opens up about his “mental bucket” overflowing and how he overcame this with the help of his family and his service dog Lewis.Mental Bucket Overflow Having been a fireman for 19 years, in 2017 the stress of the job combined with daily life began to weigh him down. Darkness is the place many first responders sit and in those moments you f...2022-04-271h 03Beyond the 1st ResponseEP 14: Robyn Mikel - I No Idea How Any Of This WorksIn this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Robyn and Christy discuss what it looks like after you have a first responder suicide affect your home, the process of what goes through your head, and working to honor her husband with a line of duty death.Robyn who is the marketing director for Red Help and co-host of Beyond the First Response has courageously shared her story with us… Eric and Robyn2022-04-101h 00
Headspace With Dr. MikeHeadspace with Dr. Mike - S2E10 - "Making it Count!"Dr. Mike and Christy handle some hot topics during, "Headnotes" including:-Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson Confirmation-Will Smith and Oscars Decision-Jezebel spirits-Russel Wilson and Ciara Dr. Mike shares his latest, "Headsup" titled, "Making it Count!" 2022-04-0956 minBeyond the 1st ResponseEP 13: Tiffany Vanyo - The Kids, The Love, The StruggleOn this episode of Beyond the 1st Response, Robyn and Christy discuss the families left behind in the wake of a first responder parent’s suicide and how the kids can take the brunt of the trauma. Tiffany and her son Kyle lost Officer John Scollo to suicide on May 25th, 2015. May 25th, 2015John served as an officer in Florida, while Tiffany and Kyle lived in Ohio. When Tiffany’s phone rang asking if she had spoken to John she thought nothing of it since...2022-03-301h 09