Best Geoff Lassers Podcasts (2024)

1
911 Dispatchers. The Unsung Frontline Workers 52:24

3h ago52:24

52:24

In this episode, we're excited to welcome Mariah Alasadi, a Police and Fire dispatcher from the City of Warren. Despite having only six years on the job, Mariah exemplifies the highest standards of professionalism, maintaining a positive attitude and unwavering dedication to serving her community. Mariah's ability to maintain a healthy balance desp…

1
Readiness, Response, and Resilience with Anthony “Gonzo” Gonzalez 42:39

15d ago42:39

42:39

In this episode, we are incredibly honored to welcome Anthony “Gonzo” Gonzalez who is the Coral Springs–Parkland Fire Department Battalion Chief assigned to the Training Division as well as a producer for the Gettin Salty Experience Podcast. Throughout his extensive and distinguished career, Gonzo has been at the forefront of some of the most chall…

1
Breathe In Breathe Out with Crystal Little 1:11:39

29d ago1:11:39

1:11:39

In today’s episode, we have the honor of welcoming Crystal Little who is an EMS Captain with Palm Beach County Fire Rescue. In addition, Crystal is a certified Health and Wellness Coach, a yoga teacher, a somatic breath work facilitator, and a Morozko cold-water guide. You can find more information about Crystal and her offerings a www.alittlereset…

1
The Relentless Courage of Michael Sugrue 58:46

2M ago58:46

58:46

In this engaging episode, we’re honored to feature Michael Sugrue, a retired Police Sergeant whose story of valor and vulnerability is a profound emblem of hope for first responders. Michael delves into the intense realities beyond the chaos of flashing lights, sharing the pivotal experiences of a harrowing December night in 2012. His battle with P…

1
Episode 22 - Get ready for the 2024 MPFFU Convention 27:13

2M ago27:13

27:13

In this episode. we welcome back President Matt Sahr and Secretary-Treasurer Terry Chesney. Matt and Terry are here to discuss the 2024 MPFFU Convention which is set to take place from April 29 through May 1, 2024, at the Park Place Hotel in Traverse City. Members interested in attending should contact their local executive board for more details. …

1
Get to Know Geoff and Mike 28:00

2M ago28:00

28:00

In this episode, you’ll get to know the hosts of the Minds of the Frontline Podcast, as they share personal insights from their journey as first responders and discuss the catalyst for creating this podcast. Geoff Lassers is a professional Firefighter, Paramedic, educator, and content creator. Mike Mattern is also a professional Firefighter and Par…

1
EMDR with Bryan Blattert, LMSW 41:09

3M ago41:09

41:09

In today’s episode, we welcome Bryan Blattert, LMSW. His transition from a committed firefighter and paramedic to a clinical therapist is as inspiring as it is remarkable. Bryan's early career at the Grand Rapids Fire Department was met with an unforeseen challenge after suffering a grave accident in 2010 while preparing for a dirt bike race. Unfor…

1
Episode 21 - 2023 Review & 2024 Outlook 53:01

3M ago53:01

53:01

In this episode, key leaders of the MPFFU break down the MPFFU’s 2023 accomplishments, as well as what MPFFU members can look forward to in 2024. This episode is packed with insights that break down the MPFFU’s achievements in 2023 and what members can look forward to in 2024. This episode features the following topics and MPFFU representatives: 02…

1
Insights on Effective Frontline Support 32:24

3M ago32:24

32:24

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Melissa O’Keefe (PsyD, LMFT), a dedicated clinician at the UFLAC Center for Health and Wellness. Dr. O’Keefe will share the center's mission and delve into the effectiveness of various support services offered. We will also tackle the critical question of what barriers hinder frontline workers from seeking mental and…

1
Cancer Sucks 41:13

3M ago41:13

41:13

In this episode, we welcome Larry Gambotto and Joe Warne. Larry and Joe are here to discuss cancer in the frontline community, the mental and emotional impact of the disease, and various services, networks, and resources that are available to frontline workers and their families. Larry is the Training and Safety Captain for the Rochester Hills Fire…

1
A sit down with Sheriff Jerry Clayton 41:12

4M ago41:12

41:12

In this episode, we welcome Sheriff Jerry Clayton of the Washtenaw County Sheriff's Department in Michigan, serving over 358,000 residents. A veteran in public safety, Sheriff Clayton is in his fourth term with over 30 years of diversified experience. Our conversation delves into his journey from Corrections Officer to Sheriff, highlighting his rol…

1
Surviving the Calls 40:27

4M ago40:27

40:27

In this episode, we welcome Aileen Pettinger and Manisha Leary to the show. Aileen retired as a Captain from the Saginaw Fire Department and now serves as the Region 2 Training Chief for the Michigan Bureau of Fire Services. In addition, Aileen is an active Peer Support Team Member with the Mid-Michigan Peer Support Team, which is a part of the gro…

1
Frontline Support in Rural Communities 37:05

5M ago37:05

37:05

In this episode, we welcome Kristie Buruse and Susan Andary who are the CISM Coordinators for the Central Upper Peninsula CISM Team. Kristie Buruse is a retired dispatcher and former firefighter, and paramedic. Susan Andary is an Advanced EMT with UP Health Systems in Marquette, Michigan. As residents, frontline workers, and Peer Support team membe…

1
Ashley’s Story 30:09

5M ago30:09

30:09

WARNING: This episode discusses the sensitive and potentially triggering topic of suicide. Listener discretion is advised. In this episode, we welcome Ashley Freeman, an EMT who is also working towards her master’s degree in social work. Once she completes her program, Ashley plans on becoming a therapist who works specifically with frontline worke…

1
Substance Use Disorder (SUD) 52:27

6M ago52:27

52:27

In this episode, we welcome back Dr. Ali Amirsadri. Dr. A is the Medical Director of the FST5 Program, and he brings a wealth of knowledge from his role at Wayne State University's Department of Psychiatry and as an Associate Chair for Clinical Services. We are also joined by Dr. Andrew King, whose extensive credentials speak volumes about his expe…

1
The Law Enforcement Perspective 30:45

6M ago30:45

30:45

In this episode, we welcome Scott Taylor, a police officer, and Peer Support Member with the City of Warren Police Department. In addition, Scott is the State of Michigan Officer Wellness liaison to the National Fraternal Order of Police, or FOP. The FOP is the world’s largest organization of sworn law enforcement officers, with more than 367,000 m…

1
Frontline Peer Support Teams 49:10

7M ago49:10

49:10

In this episode, we welcome back Manisha Leary who is the manager of the FST5 Program, as well as a trained psychotherapist with a focus on trauma. During this episode, Mike and Manisha will describe the intent, purpose, and functions of frontline Peer Support Teams. They’ll also describe how first responders can access a team for help. Finally, Mi…

1
Frontline Spouses 1:00:52

7M ago1:00:52

1:00:52

In this episode, we welcome Audra and Chelsi from the Dear Chiefs Podcast. Once upon a time in the middle of a pandemic, two fire wives and complete strangers met on the internet and decided to start a podcast for first responders and their families. Three years later the Dear Chiefs podcast is still running strong with a weekly show and tons of gr…

1
Episode 20 - KNOW YOUR RIGHTS! 24:39

8M ago24:39

24:39

MPFFU Podcast - Episode 20 – KNOW YOUR RIGHTS! In this episode, we welcome Ken Barnes and Sara Cottington-Heath. Ken is a Captain with the Delta Twp FD - Local 2846. In addition, Ken is the MPFFU Western Trustee, as well as the co-chair of the MPFFU Education Committee. Sara is a Lieutenant with the City of Saginaw – Local 102, as well as a member …

1
Episode 19 - The importance of adequate staffing 25:53

8M ago25:53

25:53

In this episode, we welcome Jeff Lentz and Adam Ferrell. Jeff Lentz is a Battalion Chief with Dearborn FD Local 412, as well as their local president. Adam Ferrell is a lieutenant with the Dearborn FD, the Secretary for Local 412, as well as a member of the MPFFU Political Education Committee. Jeff and Adam are here to discuss the importance of ade…

1
Episode 18 - A sit down with Ed Kelly - IAFF General President 24:40

8M ago24:40

24:40

In this episode, we welcome Ed Kelly, the General President of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF). Ed “Edzo” Kelly has been a Boston Firefighter, or Jake, for over 25 years. As the General President, Ed and his team play a crucial role in shaping the future of the fire service, advocating for the well-being of firefighters, and l…

1
Episode 17 - Grievances 101 16:17

9M ago16:17

16:17

In this episode, we introduce you to Kevin Caldwell. Kevin is a firefighter paramedic with the Westland FD - Local 1279, as well as a member of the MPFFU Education Committee. Kevin is here to talk about contract grievances. For context, a grievance is 'an allegation or complaint by a member or members of a Union that there has been a violation, mis…

1
Culturally Competent Clinicians & Frontline Workers 34:54

9M ago34:54

34:54

In this episode, we welcome back Manisha Leary and introduce you to Michele Potter. Manisha Leary is a trained psychotherapist with a focus on trauma. Manisha is also the Manager of the FST5 Program. Michele Potter is a clinical therapist and owner of MRP Counseling in Plymouth, Michigan. Michele is also the Clinical Director for the Dearborn Fire …

1
Episode 16 - Contracts 101 26:34

10M ago26:34

26:34

In this episode, we welcome back Mickey Wiewiura and introduce you to Matt Czarnecki. Mickey retired as a captain from the Dearborn Heights FD Local 1355 and is currently the MPFFU Eastern Trustee, as well as the Union Education Committee Chair. Matt Czarnecki is a sergeant with the Harrison Twp. FD Local 1737 and is currently a member of the MPFFU…

1
Let's talk about suicide 59:35

10M ago59:35

59:35

In this episode, we welcome back Dr. Ali Amisadri and Manisha Leary. Dr. Ali Amirsadri is the Associate Department Chair of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences Services at Wayne State University School of Medicine located in Detroit, Michigan. Manisha Leary is a trained psychotherapist with a focus on trauma. Manisha is also the Manager of the …

1
A kitchen table style chat about mental health with Mike Milner and Ron Curaba 1:15:11

11M ago1:15:11

1:15:11

In this episode, we welcome Mike Milner and Ron Curaba. Mike Milner is a well-known retired firefighter from the FDNY that spent many years on the highly respected Rescue 4. Since retirement, Mike has become a mental health advocate for all first responders, and he spends a lot of time sharing his experiences and how he was able to get help when he…

1
Episode 15 – Political Action Panel Discussion 27:06

11M ago27:06

27:06

This episode was recorded live at the MPFFU Education Seminar that took place at the Suburban Showplace in Novi, Michigan on May 15, 2023. During the seminar, Geoff Lassers took part in emceeing the Political Action Panel discussion. The panel included Matt Sahr, the MPFFU President, Scott Bala, the MPFFU Political Action Committee Chair, and Melis…

1
A cop, a dispatcher, and two firefighters walk into a podcast studio... 26:48

11M ago26:48

26:48

The Minds on the Frontline Podcast brought to you by the Wayne State University Frontline Strong Together Program. The Minds on Frontline Podcast is designed to inform, educate, and entertain first responders, their families, and the public regarding the realities of frontline work-related mental health challenges. In this episode, we welcome James…

1
Episode 14 - The Value of Unions 26:50

12M ago26:50

26:50

In this episode, we welcome Adam Bennet and Matt Layer. Adam Bennet is a firefighter with the Oshtemo fire department, as well as the president of local 5240. Matt Layer is a firefighter/paramedic for the City of Eastpointe Fire Department local 1561, as well as their Treasurer. Matt is a member of the MPFFU Recruitment and Retention Committee. The…

1
Understanding PTSD with Dr. Arash Javanbakht 23:32

1y ago23:32

23:32

In this episode, we will introduce you Dr. Arash Javanbakht, who is an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences at Wayne State University School of Medicine. In addition, Dr. Arash is the Director of Stress, Trauma, and Anxiety Research Clinic, or STARC. Dr. Javanbakht has vast experience studying and treatin…

1
An introduction to mental health for first responders 28:09

1y ago28:09

28:09

The Minds on the Frontline Podcast brought to you by the Wayne State University Frontline Strong Together Program. The Minds on Frontline Podcast is designed to inform, educate, and entertain first responders, their families, and the public regarding the realities of frontline work-related mental health challenges. In this episode, Dr. A will Descr…

1
Episode 13 - Social Media 101 for MPFFU Locals 23:33

1y ago23:33

23:33

In this episode, we welcome back Matt Sahr and Amanda West to provide a clear and concise overview of the “do’s and don’ts” for MPFFU Locals to consider when using social media. Matt Sahr is the president of the Michigan Professional Fire Fighters Association (MPFFU), and a firefighter paramedic with the city of Eastpointe Local 1561. Amanda West i…

1
Episode 12 – The value of participating in MPFFU District meetings 12:18

1y ago12:18

12:18

Each district is made up of the locals within that geographic area. Every spring and fall, district meetings are held to bring our locals and members together to network, as well as share ideas and information. The district meetings are a GREAT way for members to come together, eat, drink, and learn about what is happening at the State level, as we…

1
Frontline barriers to care 41:57

1y ago41:57

41:57

The Minds on the Frontline Podcast brought to you by the Wayne State University Frontline Strong Together Program. The Minds on Frontline Podcast is designed to inform, educate, and entertain first responders, their families, and the public regarding the realities of frontline work-related mental health challenges. In this episode, we will introduc…

1
Episode 11 – Political Education and Recruitment & Retention Committees Update 17:24

1y ago17:24

17:24

In this two-part episode we welcome back the chairpersons of the MPFFU Recruitment & Retention Committee and the Political Education Committee. In the first part, we welcome back firefighter/paramedic Scott Korycki from the Dearborn FD local 412 who also serves as the MPFFU Recruitment and Retention Committee Chair. Scott will provide an update reg…

1
Introducing the Frontline Strong Together Program (FST5) 27:12

1y ago27:12

27:12

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. In this first episode, we will introduce you to Manisha Leary, the FST5 Program Manager who oversees operations of the program. In addition, we’re joined by Jim Peyton who is th…

1
Episode 10 - Balancing firefighter health & wellness 19:45

1y ago19:45

19:45

In this episode, we welcome Maureen Stocklein who is a retired firefighter / paramedic from the Canton Fire Department, local 2289 who served 22 years. Maureen, or Mo as she prefers to be called, has been a registered dietitian for over 25 years. While working as a professional firefighter in Canton Township, she worked three seasons as the Team Di…

1
Episode 9 - What to expect in 2023 15:10

1+ y ago15:10

15:10

In this episode, Matt Sahr, president of the Michigan Professional Fire Fighters Association, and firefighter paramedic with the city of Eastpointe local 1561. During this episode, Matt will provide an overview of what MPFFU members can expect in 2023. Then, he’ll provide us with an update of the cancer presumption act, Public Act 152, the MPFFU Re…

1
Episode 8 - A sit down with MPFFU Committee members 17:56

1+ y ago17:56

17:56

The MPFFU Podcast Episode 8 is NOW AVAILABLE! In this episode, Matt Sahr (MPFFU President) and Geoff Lassers (MPFFU Podcast Host) sit down with various members from MPFFU Committees to ask three important questions: 1) WHY did you become a firefighter? 2) WHO should become a firefighter? 3) What should Michigan’s politicians know about the MPFFU an…

1
Episode 7 - The EMS Committee 29:27

1+ y ago29:27

29:27

The MPFFU Podcast Episode 7 is NOW AVAILABLE! In this episode, we sit down with Monty Nye who is a retired firefighter and paramedic from the Meridian Township Fire Department (Local 1600). Currently, Monty is an active retiree with the Grand Ledge Fire Department, Local 2627, as well as the MPFFU 5th District VP, and the MPFFU EMS Committee Chair.…

1
Episode 6 - The Health and Safety Committee 26:27

1+ y ago26:27

26:27

In this episode, I sit down with Larry Gambotto and John Schwall. Larry Gambotto is the Captain of Training and Safety with the Rochester Hills Fire Department local 3472, as well as a member of the MPFFU Health and Safety Committee. John Schwall is a shift Captain with the Ferndale Fire Department local 812 and is also a member of the MPFFU Health…

1
Episode 5 - The Union Education Committee 20:05

1+ y ago20:05

20:05

In this episode, we’re joined by Mickey Wiewiura and Matt Sahr. Matt Sahr is a firefighter paramedic with the city of Eastpointe local 1561, as well as the president of the Michigan Professional Fire Fighters Association. He’s also the one responsible for getting this podcast off the ground and out to our members. Mickey Wiewiura retired from the D…

1
Episode 4 - The Recruitment & Retention Committee 21:16

1+ y ago21:16

21:16

The MPFFU Podcast Episode 4 is NOW AVAILABLE! In this episode, I sit down with Scott Korycki, who has a long history and depth of experience as a professional firefighter and an active union representative at the local and state level. Scott is a current firefighter paramedic with Dearborn Fire Department local 412, as well as the MPFFU Recruitment…

1
Episode 3 - The Political Education Committee 37:23

1+ y ago37:23

37:23

In this episode, we introduce Scott Bala, who has a long history and depth of experience as a professional firefighter and an active union representative at the local and state level. Scott recently retired from the Roseville FD (Local 1614) as a Battalion Chief with 30 years of service. Scott is currently the 6th District VP and the Chairperson of…

1
Episode 2 - The MPFFU Behavioral Health Committee 32:01

1+ y ago32:01

32:01

In the second episode of the MPFFU Podcast, we are joined by Mike Mattern is a LT with Dearborn FD Local 412, as well as a Peer Support member and the Chairperson of the MPFFU Mental Health Committee. During this episode, Mike will help us appreciate the value of the MPFFU and its locals. Then, he’ll describe the role and functions of the MPFFU Beh…

1
Welcome to the MPFFU Podcast - An overview of the IAFF and MPFFU 35:48

1+ y ago35:48

35:48

In this first episode of the MPFFU Podcast, we are joined by Matt Sahr, the relatively newly elected MPFFU President, as well as a firefighter paramedic with the Eastpointe Fire Department. We’re also joined by Terry Chesney, the Godfather himself, a retired Trenton firefighter and long-time MPFFU Secretary Treasurer who is a fountain of knowledge …

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