Josh Bitsko was one of three officers who breached the suspect’s room during the 1 October mass shooting in Las Vegas, the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history. That moment was not just a test of tactics; it was a critical examination of the emotional core of what it truly means to be a first responder.

We hear from Josh about maintaining calm in high-stress situations like active shooter scenarios. He shares crucial strategies for self-regulating emotions and how slowing down mentally can make all the difference in a crisis. We tackle the concept of "tactical paralysis" and explore effective techniques for keeping a team focused and decisive when the pressure is on.

Now available! Helping the Helpers: A Clinician’s Guide to First Responder Mental Wellness, our new book that equips you to build a First Responder-Centered Practice that works. Get your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1969267003

Go to https://www.respondertv.com/p/helpingthehelpers/ for more book info.

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.

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

Contact Josh Bitsko:

Website: http://www.bitskoconsulting.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561200480384

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-bitsko-47905192/

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 engaging episode of Responder Resilience, Bonnie and David tackle the unspoken challenges faced by first responders dealing with perfectionism and relentless self-criticism. They dig into how the intense nature of their work and the trauma they encounter shape their beliefs and behaviors. It’s a raw look at the struggle to change those negative thought patterns, especially in the high-pressure world of public safety.

They also break down some powerful therapeutic techniques like EMDR and CBT, and discuss how these can play a crucial role in self-healing and growth. Bonnie shares her personal insights into the emergency services culture, prompting us to question whether the mindset adopted by responders is actually helping or holding them back.

This conversation is all about embracing vulnerability and understanding, pushing for a shift in perspective that could make a real difference for those who wear the badge or headset.

Now available! Helping the Helpers: A Clinician’s Guide to First Responder Mental Wellness, our new book that equips you to build a First Responder-Centered Practice that works. Get your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1969267003

Go to https://www.respondertv.com/p/helpingthehelpers/ for more book info.

Thanks to our resource partner, EMS & FIRE PRO EXPO. Join us for the largest gathering of EMS and fire professionals in New England, September 24 - 27, 2025, at the Mohegan Sun in Connecticut! Sign up at https://emspro.org/

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.

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

Contact Bonnie Rumily:

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/

In this episode, we address the realities of mental health in high-stress professions, the impact of training, and the often-overlooked importance of creative outlets for healing with John Creamer, the Deputy Executive Director of the Florida Deputy Sheriff’s Association. With over 32 years in law enforcement and a wealth of experience in executive leadership, John reveals the harsh realities facing first responders today and the crucial need for effective training and resilience strategies. Get ready to rethink mental wellness and join us for a raw and insightful conversation about fostering true resilience.

Now available! Helping the Helpers: A Clinician’s Guide to First Responder Mental Wellness, our new book that equips you to build a First Responder-Centered Practice that works. Get your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1969267003

Go to https://www.respondertv.com/p/helpingthehelpers/ for more book info.

Thanks to our resource partner, EMS & FIRE PRO EXPO. Join us for the largest gathering of EMS and fire professionals in New England, September 24 - 27, 2025, at the Mohegan Sun in Connecticut! Sign up at https://emspro.org/

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.

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

Contact John Creamer:

Website: Level2consultinggroup.com fldeputysheriffs.org

Facebook: @floridadeputysheriffsassociation

Instagram: @fldeputysheriffs

Your LinkedIn page link: @john-creamer-28973a1b2 https://www.linkedin.com/company/florida-deputy-sheriffs-association-inc

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 hear from seven influential FDNY leaders who share their insights on effective leadership, resilience, and wellness:

- Captain Frank Leto: Discusses the rapid formation of FDNY mental health resources after 9/11.
- Lieutenant Drew Kane: Offers insights into the support provided by the FDNY Counseling Services Unit to over 16,000 members and their families.
- Chief Frank Leeb: Highlights the importance of training and collaboration between FDNY leadership, unions, and peer support.
- Chief Lillian Bonsignore: Shares her experiences managing FDNY EMS operations during the challenges of COVID-19.
- Chief Thomas Dunne: Provides insights on maintaining composure as an incident commander at large emergencies.
- Kristina Moon: Advocates for organ donation and shares her wisdom on having the difficult conversations.
- Battalion Chief John Haseney: Discusses firefighter cancer awareness and the effectiveness of department sponsored health screenings.

Tune in for a powerful discussion that pays tribute to world-class leadership and highlights key topics important to your well-being.

Now available! Helping the Helpers: A Clinician’s Guide to First Responder Mental Wellness, our new book that equips you to build a First Responder-Centered Practice that works. Get your copy here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1969267003

Go to https://www.respondertv.com/p/helpingthehelpers/ for more book info.

Thanks to our resource partner, EMS & FIRE PRO EXPO. Join us for the largest gathering of EMS and fire professionals in New England, September 24 - 27, 2025, at the Mohegan Sun in Connecticut! Sign up at https://emspro.org/

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.

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

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 on this Clinician’s Guide masterclass as we speak with Dr. Nicole Navega, a pioneer in embedded EMS trauma care. When it comes to supporting first responders, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach for clinicians. Through her insights into various clinical models, Dr. Navega reveals how the embedded clinician model stands out as the most impactful as it fosters unparalleled access, trust, and cultural comprehension.

As we unpack the essential mindset required to effectively support first responders, we will examine the importance of genuine connection, understanding the unique challenges they face, and meeting them where they are—both in their work and in their emotional journeys. This episode promises to provide valuable strategies for clinicians seeking to enhance their impact and bring about meaningful change within this vital community.

Coming September 2025!! Helping the Helpers: A Clinician’s Guide to First Responder Mental Wellness, a new book that equips you to build a First Responder-Centered Practice that works. Get a FREE sample Chapter and Book Launch Invite!! Go to helpingthehelpers.me to get Early Access when you sign up!

Thanks to our resource partner, EMS & FIRE PRO EXPO. Join us for the largest gathering of EMS and fire professionals in New England, September 24 - 27, 2025, at the Mohegan Sun in Connecticut! Sign up at https://emspro.org/

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.

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

Contact Dr. Nicole Navega:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-navega-phd-lcsw-qs-18703a8/

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/

Get ready to embark on the inspiring journey of Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, the groundbreaking former U.S. Fire Administrator. Join us as we explore the unique challenges she faced as a woman during her early career as a paramedic, shedding light on the game-changing initiatives she championed at the IAFF that have left a lasting impact on the fire service community.

​Dr. Moore-Merrell shares powerful insights on leveraging faith and solid relationships to build mental resilience in the trenches. This episode is packed with raw stories, vital strategies, and a vision to turn crisis into opportunity. This conversation is a must-listen for first responders and mental health pros looking to unlock powerful insights and drive real change.

Coming September 2025!! Helping the Helpers: A Clinician’s Guide to First Responder Mental Wellness, a new book that equips you to build a First Responder-Centered Practice that works. Get a FREE sample Chapter and Book Launch Invite!! Go to helpingthehelpers.me to get Early Access when you sign up!

Thanks to our resource partner, EMS & FIRE PRO EXPO. Join us for the largest gathering of EMS and fire professionals in New England, September 24 - 27, 2025, at the Mohegan Sun in Connecticut! Sign up at https://emspro.org/

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.

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

Contact Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell:

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dr-lori-moore-merrell-69a831165

World Fire Congress: https://www.firehero.org/world-fire-congress/

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 talk with Lt. Tommy Bolin, a firefighter and paramedic from Central Ohio, about the hidden mental health struggles first responders face. Drawing from his book, “Unseen Battles: The Price of Duty in a Life of Trauma and Sacrifice,” Tommy discusses the toll of duty, identity crises, and the importance of breaking the silence around these issues.

We address critical questions: Why are suicide rates among first responders higher than line-of-duty deaths? How does trauma impact families and home life? Join us for a candid conversation aimed at reducing stigma and fostering a supportive culture for those who serve our communities.

SPONSORS:
Coming September 2025!! Helping the Helpers: A Clinician’s Guide to First Responder Mental Wellness, a new book that equips you to build a First Responder-Centered Practice that works. Get a FREE sample Chapter and Book Launch Invite!! Go to helpingthehelpers.me to get Early Access when you sign up!

Thanks to our resource partner, EMS & FIRE PRO EXPO. Join us for the largest gathering of EMS and fire professionals in New England, September 24 - 27, 2025, at the Mohegan Sun in Connecticut! Sign up at https://emspro.org/

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.

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

Contact Lt. Tommy Bolin:

Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F646Q8WB

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Fdawgs45

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fdawgs20/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tommy-bolin-3a4a902a/

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 our very own Bonnie Rumilly, LCSW, EMTB, and Stacy Raymond, PsyD, in this engaging episode as they share their expertise on building a practice tailored for clinicians working with First Responders. They will offer effective strategies for integrating support networks, managing insurance and payment hurdles, and fostering a therapeutic environment that respects the unique mindset of First Responders. Additionally, they'll address the recognition of burnout signs and emphasize the essential role of clinician self-care. Tune in for invaluable insights that will enhance both your practice and well-being in this challenging field.

SPONSORS:
Coming September 2025!! Helping the Helpers: A Clinician’s Guide to First Responder Mental Wellness, a new book that equips you to build a First Responder-Centered Practice that works. Get a FREE sample Chapter and Book Launch Invite!! Go to helpingthehelpers.me to get Early Access when you sign up!

Get ready for the EMS & FIRE PRO EXPO, September 24th to 27th, 2025, at the Mohegan Sun in Connecticut! Connect with over 2,500 fellow first responders, learn from 90+ world-class speakers, and explore 300+ continuing education opportunities designed just for you! Register now at EMSPro.org and be part of this transformational experience.

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

Contact Bonnie and Stacy:

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

Stacy: https://www.drstacyraymond.com/

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/