Minds on the Frontline Podcast

Geoff Lassers and Mike Mattern
  • 5.0 (5)
  • Education
  • Updated Monthly

The Minds on the Frontline Podcast brought to you by the Wayne State University Frontline Strong Together Program in collaboration with the Michigan Crisis and Access Line. Frontline Strong Together, or FST5, provides streamlined access to behavioral health resources, as well as increased access to crisis services to Michigan’s front line five, which includes all professional, part-time, and volunteer firefighters, EMS, law enforcement, corrections officers, and 911 dispatchers. The Michigan Crisis and Access Line, or MiCAL, serves as the central call center for the FST5 Program. FST5 was collaboratively created by first responders and mental health experts to provide 24/7 live support, effective resources, and cutting-edge services to prevent and alleviate PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other frontline work-related mental health challenges. NEED HELP NOW? If you are experiencing any crisis - work related, substance abuse, depression, relationships, financial, or any other, reach out by calling 1-833-34-STRONG or go to FST5.org for more information.

  1. Sep 8

    STRESS, TRAUMA & THE FIRST RESPONDER BRAIN, with Dr. Danielle Taylor

    In this episode of Minds on the Frontline, Dr. Danielle Taylor, a licensed clinical psychologist and neuroscience researcher, explains how stress and trauma affect the brain and body, how to recognize when normal reactions are no longer resolving, and what happens when someone seeks professional help. This conversation offers practical guidance for law enforcement, fire, EMS, corrections, 911 dispatchers, and the families who support them. 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.   Link to YouTube episode:  https://tinyurl.com/vxhktj6wLink to Buzzsprout:  https://mindsonthefrontlinepodcast.buzzsprout.com/YouTube:  frontlinestrongtogether2346Facebook: FrontlineStrongTogether and Minds on the FrontlineInstagram:  mifst5 and FrontlinePodcastLinkedIn:  Frontline-Strong-Together-5 and Minds on the Frontline Podcast

    STRESS, TRAUMA & THE FIRST RESPONDER BRAIN, with Dr. Danielle Taylor

  2. Aug 6

    ONE FATAL CALL, TWO DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVES, with William Kaczur

    In this episode of Minds on the Frontline, licensed professional counselor William Kaczur, MS, LPC, NCE, CISM, reflects on his first fire department ride-along, which took an unexpected turn when he was brought directly to the scene of a fatal motor vehicle crash. William and Mike revisit the call from the perspectives of a clinician and a responder, exploring the organized work beneath the apparent chaos, the care shown to the person who died and their family, and the moral or “human injury” responders may carry afterward. They also discuss debriefing, station culture, the importance of the kitchen table, and why effectively supporting first responders requires more than clinical training. It requires curiosity, respect, cultural understanding, and a willingness to meet responders where they are. 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.   Link to YouTube episode:  https://tinyurl.com/vxhktj6wLink to Buzzsprout:  https://mindsonthefrontlinepodcast.buzzsprout.com/YouTube:  frontlinestrongtogether2346Facebook: FrontlineStrongTogether and Minds on the FrontlineInstagram:  mifst5 and FrontlinePodcastLinkedIn:  Frontline-Strong-Together-5 and Minds on the Frontline Podcast

    ONE FATAL CALL, TWO DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVES, with William Kaczur

  3. Jul 22

    SAME EVENT, DIFFERENT WOUNDS: Surviving the Oxford High School Shooting

    E85 - SAME EVENT, DIFFERENT WOUNDS: Surviving the Oxford High School Shooting In this episode of Minds on the Frontline, Oxford High School shooting survivor Kylie Ossege and firefighter-paramedic Justin Templeton share what the same traumatic event looked and felt like from opposite sides. Kylie recounts her experience in the hallway, ambulance, and recovery, while Justin describes the response, difficult triage decisions, and emotional weight he carried after the call. Their connection offers a powerful look at how communication and perspective can fill in missing pieces, provide closure, and support healing. This conversation reminds first responders that what they do matters, how they treat people matters, and the moments they barely remember may become the moments someone else never forgets. 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.   Link to YouTube episode:  https://tinyurl.com/vxhktj6wLink to Buzzsprout:  https://mindsonthefrontlinepodcast.buzzsprout.com/YouTube:  frontlinestrongtogether2346Facebook: FrontlineStrongTogether and Minds on the FrontlineInstagram:  mifst5 and FrontlinePodcastLinkedIn:  Frontline-Strong-Together-5 and Minds on the Frontline Podcast

    SAME EVENT, DIFFERENT WOUNDS: Surviving the Oxford High School Shooting

  4. Jul 15

    YOU ARE NOT BROKEN: Retraining the First Responder Brain, with Dr. Jason Wilkinson

    In this episode of Minds on the Frontline, we speak with Dr. Jason Wilkinson, a clinical psychologist and assistant professor at Wayne State University, about what first responders and their families can expect when seeking clinical care. Dr. Wilkinson explains the initial evaluation process and breaks down treatment options, including QEEG brain mapping, neurofeedback, EMDR, and medication. The conversation explores how trauma, disrupted sleep, chronic stress, and years of remaining alert can affect the brain and body, why the same event can impact people differently, and how trust, support, and workplace culture can influence recovery. Most importantly, this episode emphasizes that trauma responses do not mean someone is broken, and with the right care, these patterns can be processed, regulated, and retrained. 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.   Link to YouTube episode:  https://tinyurl.com/vxhktj6wLink to Buzzsprout:  https://mindsonthefrontlinepodcast.buzzsprout.com/YouTube:  frontlinestrongtogether2346Facebook: FrontlineStrongTogether and Minds on the FrontlineInstagram:  mifst5 and FrontlinePodcastLinkedIn:  Frontline-Strong-Together-5 and Minds on the Frontline Podcast

    YOU ARE NOT BROKEN: Retraining the First Responder Brain, with Dr. Jason Wilkinson

  5. Jun 15

    Supporting First Responders Through Loss, with FST5 and Dignity Memorial

    In this episode of Minds on the Frontline, we speak with Sarah Hutton and Scott Hurrell about the partnership between FST5 and Dignity Memorial, a network of funeral homes, cemeteries, cremation providers, and memorial service professionals. This partnership helps support Michigan first responders and their families during times of loss by easing the financial and logistical burden of funeral arrangements. Dignity Memorial offers funeral services and related merchandise at no cost for line-of-duty deaths and provides significant support and discounts for other first responder family losses. Through this partnership, FST5 can help connect first responders, families, departments, and agencies with trusted local funeral support backed by the Dignity Memorial network. For more information, visit DignityMemorial.com or call 1-800-343-4464. First responders and families can also contact the FST5 24/7 Crisis and Resource Line at 1-833-34-STRONG. 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.   Link to YouTube episode:  https://tinyurl.com/vxhktj6wLink to Buzzsprout:  https://mindsonthefrontlinepodcast.buzzsprout.com/YouTube:  frontlinestrongtogether2346Facebook: FrontlineStrongTogether and Minds on the FrontlineInstagram:  mifst5 and FrontlinePodcastLinkedIn:  Frontline-Strong-Together-5 and Minds on the Frontline Podcast

    Supporting First Responders Through Loss, with FST5 and Dignity Memorial

  6. Jun 3

    Private EMS, Public Impact: No Responder Left Behind

    In this episode of Minds on the Frontline, we talk with Vince Waryas, Operations Director for Universal Macomb and board member with the Michigan Association of Ambulance Services, about the realities faced by private EMS providers. With nearly 30 years of EMS experience, Vince brings a practical perspective on the unique stressors of private EMS, why these providers are often left out of responder wellness conversations, and why support must fit the real-world environment where people work. This conversation highlights the importance of leadership, listening, peer support, and trusted mental health resources in making sure no responder is left behind.  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.   Link to YouTube episode:  https://tinyurl.com/vxhktj6wLink to Buzzsprout:  https://mindsonthefrontlinepodcast.buzzsprout.com/YouTube:  frontlinestrongtogether2346Facebook: FrontlineStrongTogether and Minds on the FrontlineInstagram:  mifst5 and FrontlinePodcastLinkedIn:  Frontline-Strong-Together-5 and Minds on the Frontline Podcast

    Private EMS, Public Impact: No Responder Left Behind

  7. May 18

    Balancing Service and Self: A Conversation on Mental Health, with Steve Grunwald

    In this episode, Detroit radio host and part-time law enforcement officer Steve Grunwald joins Geoff Lassers and Mike Mattern for a candid conversation about balancing service and self. Steve discusses work-life balance, the pressure to always show up, the stigma around asking for help, suicide prevention, peer conversations, and the importance of finding healthy ways to decompress. 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.   Link to YouTube episode:  https://tinyurl.com/vxhktj6wLink to Buzzsprout:  https://mindsonthefrontlinepodcast.buzzsprout.com/YouTube:  frontlinestrongtogether2346Facebook: FrontlineStrongTogether and Minds on the FrontlineInstagram:  mifst5 and FrontlinePodcastLinkedIn:  Frontline-Strong-Together-5 and Minds on the Frontline Podcast

    Balancing Service and Self: A Conversation on Mental Health, with Steve Grunwald

  8. May 6

    WHAT HAPPENS After You Ask for Help? With Dr. Rebecca Klisz-Hulbert

    This episode will provide a practical, high-level overview of the treatment options available through the Frontline Strong Together 5 Program, with Dr. Klisz-Hulbert explaining how first responders and their families can connect with the right providers and what to expect when seeking help. The conversation will walk through the process from initial contact to ongoing care, highlighting how individuals are matched with culturally competent providers and how treatment may progress over time, with the goal of making access to support clear, straightforward, and approachable. 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.   Link to YouTube episode:  https://tinyurl.com/vxhktj6wLink to Buzzsprout:  https://mindsonthefrontlinepodcast.buzzsprout.com/YouTube:  frontlinestrongtogether2346Facebook: FrontlineStrongTogether and Minds on the FrontlineInstagram:  mifst5 and FrontlinePodcastLinkedIn:  Frontline-Strong-Together-5 and Minds on the Frontline Podcast

    WHAT HAPPENS After You Ask for Help? With Dr. Rebecca Klisz-Hulbert
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

The Minds on the Frontline Podcast brought to you by the Wayne State University Frontline Strong Together Program in collaboration with the Michigan Crisis and Access Line. Frontline Strong Together, or FST5, provides streamlined access to behavioral health resources, as well as increased access to crisis services to Michigan’s front line five, which includes all professional, part-time, and volunteer firefighters, EMS, law enforcement, corrections officers, and 911 dispatchers. The Michigan Crisis and Access Line, or MiCAL, serves as the central call center for the FST5 Program. FST5 was collaboratively created by first responders and mental health experts to provide 24/7 live support, effective resources, and cutting-edge services to prevent and alleviate PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other frontline work-related mental health challenges. NEED HELP NOW? If you are experiencing any crisis - work related, substance abuse, depression, relationships, financial, or any other, reach out by calling 1-833-34-STRONG or go to FST5.org for more information.

Information

  • Creator
    Geoff Lassers and Mike Mattern
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    86
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Minds on the Frontline Podcast
  • Show Website
    Minds on the Frontline Podcast

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