Best Mike Mattern Podcasts (2025)

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Cannabis Risks, Research, and Reality with Dr. Leslie Lundahl 45:21

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11d ago45:21

45:21

In this episode of Minds on the Frontline, we take an educational, research-driven look at cannabis and its impact on mental health, trauma, and high-stress professions. As cannabis use becomes more common and socially accepted, frontline workers, clinicians, and agency leaders must understand the facts behind the substance, not just the headlines.…

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Letting Them Rot with Cliff VanDeusen 1:08:31

25d ago1:08:31

1:08:31

This episode brings you a raw and powerful story of crisis, recovery, and the silent battles many frontline workers face. Firefighter Cliff VanDeusen shares how a traumatic pediatric call in 2021 triggered unresolved trauma, leading to a dissociative episode, a suicide attempt, and a complex PTSD diagnosis. We are also joined by Amanda Davarn (MA, …

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Ep #87 Anvil Sharks, Lampreys & Ratfish with Head-Sprouting Teeth featuring Vertebrate Paleontologist Michael Coates 1:19:04

28d ago1:19:04

1:19:04

Ray and Dave explore jaws, fins and fossil fish while tracing the deep origins of vertebrate life with Dr. Michael Coates, Vertebrate Paleontologist and Chair of Organismal Biology and Anatomy Professor at the University of Chicago.By paleonerds

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Same Fight, Different Uniforms - Avi Amirsadri & Dr. Keith Alangaden 43:35

1M ago43:35

43:35

This episode explores the emotional parallels between emergency room teams and frontline responders. We are joined by Dr. Keith Alangaden, an emergency physician and EMS medical director, along with Avazeh “Avi” Amirsadri, a nurse and the ER director at Sinai-Grace Hospital in downtown Detroit. Together, they discuss the shared stress, culture, and…

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AR Therapy & First Responder Trauma with Dr. Arash Javanbakht 38:28

2M ago38:28

38:28

This episode explores trauma recovery with Dr. Arash Javanbakht, who is transforming PTSD treatment by integrating augmented reality (AR) therapy into treatment. We explore how this technology aids first responders in trauma situations within controlled environments while connecting to the real world. From navigating crowded stores to handling aggr…

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Ep #86 Painting Prehistoric Worlds and Dinosaur Dreams with Mark Hallett 1:04:29

2M ago1:04:29

1:04:29

Ray and Dave talk Sauropods, Smilodons, and Spielberg with artist and paleo visionary Mark Hallett, whose decades of work bring ancient worlds to life.By paleonerds

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What PTSD Looks Like in 911 Dispatch – Jason and Kathy Lott 40:09

2M ago40:09

40:09

In this episode, we explore the hidden mental toll faced by 9-1-1 dispatchers. Kathy and Jason Lott, founders of the Thin Gold Line, share their personal story: how PTSD forced Jason into medical retirement and how they transformed pain into purpose by supporting dispatchers nationwide. We examine the pivotal moment in Jason’s journey, what healing…

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When Cancer Hits Home - Dr. Mary Morreale, psycho-oncologist, cancer survivor 49:35

3M ago49:35

49:35

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Mary Morreale, psycho-oncologist and cancer survivor. Joining us as a guest co-host is Larry Gambotto, a firefighter and cancer survivor who is also the State Director of the Michigan Chapter of the Firefighter Cancer Support Network. During this episode, we delve into the emotional impact of a cancer diagnosis on fi…

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Ep #85 Mammoth Tusks, Gomphothere Shovels and Elephant Trunks with Advait Jukar 1:09:31

3M ago1:09:31

1:09:31

Ray and Dave explore the history of all things Elephantidae, including Mammoths, Mastodons, and Gomphotheres, with Advait Jukar, delving into their shovels, tusks, and trunks.By paleonerds

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Somatic Skills for Stress and Resilience with Mr. G and David Roberts 29:32

3M ago29:32

29:32

In this episode, Michael “Mr. G” Gillespie and David Roberts from Mind Body Reconnect (www.mindbodyreconnect.org) discuss how somatic skills (simple, body-based techniques) can help shift the nervous system from stress to balance. With backgrounds in clinical care and lived experience, they explore evidence-based practices that enhance resilience, …

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Marriage, Maydays, and Making It: Tracy and Scott Stockinger 53:32

3M ago53:32

53:32

In Episode 52, we sat down with Scott Stockinger and his kids, who gave us an honest glimpse into what it’s like growing up with a firefighter dad. Today, Scott returns with his wife, Tracy, to discuss marriage, maydays, and how they’ve made it work through 28 years of shifts, stress, and sacrifice. From reentry struggles to trust, communication, a…

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Dr. Arash Javanbakht: Trauma, Healing, & Hope 1:01:48

4M ago1:01:48

1:01:48

In this episode, Dr. Arash Javanbakht returns to explore the science of trauma, its impact on the brain and body, and innovative treatments like augmented reality exposure therapy. We break down the difference between stress and trauma, the risks of unresolved experiences, and practical strategies for healing—especially for first responders. Minds …

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Ryan Fessenden: 911 Dispatchers - Relentless and Unseen 42:13

4M ago42:13

42:13

For 25 years, Ryan Fessenden served as a 911 dispatcher for the City of Warren. Answering life-or-death calls from both strangers and loved ones. In this episode, he shares how a detour turned into a lifelong mission in public safety, the emotional weight dispatchers carry, and the moment a call involving his close friend and now co-host changed ev…

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Ep #84 Turning to Stone: Earthlings on a Dynamic Granite Planet with Marcia Bjornerud 1:17:46

4M ago1:17:46

1:17:46

Ray and Dave go rock hunting through billions of years of Earth's history with Marcia Bjornerud, a structural geologist, inspirational author, and Professor of Geosciences at Lawrence University in Wisconsin.By PaleoNerds

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Dr. Vaibhav Diwadkar: Enhancing resilience under stress 56:51

4M ago56:51

56:51

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Vaibhav Diwadkar, professor of psychiatry and behavioral neurosciences at Wayne State University. Dr. Diwadkar worked directly with Wim Hof, the world-famous figure known for enduring extreme cold and pushing human limits. His research explored how the Wim Hof Method—combining breathwork, cold exposure, and focused m…

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Dr. Rebecca Sripada: First Responders and PTSD 36:20

4M ago36:20

36:20

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Rebecca Sripada, a leading clinical psychologist, researcher, and Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Michigan. Dr. Sripada is also a Research Scientist at the VA Center for Clinical Management Research and has spent over 20 years specializing in PTSD treatment and recovery. Her r…

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The Stockinger Family – Growing up with a firefighter father 1:09:44

5M ago1:09:44

1:09:44

In this episode, we sit down with Scott Stockinger, a professional firefighter and paramedic with the Dearborn Fire Department, and his two children, Cole and Amber. During the COVID lockdown, a conversation at home changed everything. Scott’s children opened up about their experiences growing up with a firefighter father, revealing fears, worries,…

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Matt Dunaj: Rehab, Relapse, and Redemption 40:52

5M ago40:52

40:52

Detroit firefighter Matt Dunaj knows firsthand how the weight of life and the job can push someone to the brink. In August 2024, overwhelmed by stress and addiction, he sat alone in his basement, gun in hand, ready to end it all, until his Goldendoodle, Mia, interrupted him with a simple act of love that saved his life. That moment set him on a pat…

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Ep #83 Diggin' the Beasts of the Badlands 1:03:07

5M ago1:03:07

1:03:07

Ray and Dave talk about the amazing fossils and strata found in Badlands National Park, South Dakota, where park ranger Mattison Shreero explains how it all got there and why she absolutely loves her job.By paleonerds

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Dr. David Ledgerwood on Addiction, Trauma, and First Responders 38:34

5M ago38:34

38:34

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Dave Ledgerwood, a professor at Wayne State University and a clinical psychologist specializing in addiction. With over 25 years of experience, Dr. Ledgerwood breaks down how addiction, whether to nicotine, gambling, or other substances, affects the brain and why first responders are at higher risk. We explore the im…

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Captain David Clifton, Washtenaw County Corrections: The cost of order behind bars 50:53

6M ago50:53

50:53

In this episode, we welcome Captain David Clifton of the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office Corrections Division, where he has served for 18 years and counting. During this episode, we discuss the challenges officers face, the emotional toll of the job, and the misconceptions about corrections work. Captain Clifton highlights the need for mentorship…

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Crying and Laughing with Dr. Ali Amirsadri 39:44

6M ago39:44

39:44

In this episode, Dr. Ali Amirsadri, Director of the FST5 Program and a seasoned psychiatrist with over 20 years in emergency psychiatry, joins us to explore the profound connection between crying and laughter. As essential emotional tools, these responses shape how we process experiences, connect with others, and manage stress, especially for front…

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Ep #82 The Ultimate Paleo Vlogger, That We Know Of 1:06:09

6M ago1:06:09

1:06:09

Ray and Dave discuss the wide-reaching influence of one of YouTube's paleo stars, Lindsay Nikole, who has millions of followers and incredible outreach with her remarkable video series, The History of Life on Earth, as we know it.By paleonerds

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Conrad Weaver - Film maker: PTSD 911 37:17

6M ago37:17

37:17

In this episode, we welcome award-winning filmmaker Conrad Weaver, director of PTSD 911, a documentary exploring the mental health challenges faced by first responders. Conrad shares insights from his journey capturing the resilience and struggles of these frontline heroes and offers actionable strategies for fostering wellness, peer support, and s…

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Ali Amirsadri, M.D. Understanding Grief (Part 2) 43:58

6M ago43:58

43:58

In this episode, we welcome back Dr. Ali Amirsadri, a respected psychiatrist, professor, and advocate for frontline mental health. As the Director of the FST5 Program, Dr. A has over 20 years of experience in emergency psychiatry and specializes in addressing PTSD, anxiety, and grief in Michigan’s frontline workers. Building on Episode 41, we explo…

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Kevin Sehlmeyer - State of Michigan Fire Marshal 41:45

6M ago41:45

41:45

In this episode, Michigan’s State Fire Marshal Kevin Sehlmeyer shares insights from over 30 years in the fire service. We discuss his work leading the Bureau of Fire Services, efforts to reduce fire fatalities, and initiatives like FST5 that expand access to mental health resources. Kevin highlights how mental health support improves recruitment, r…

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Mike McFall - State of Michigan Representative 30:51

7M ago30:51

30:51

In this episode, we sit down with Michigan State Representative Mike McFall, a dedicated advocate for public safety and community well-being. Representing House District 8, which includes Hazel Park, Madison Heights, and portions of Ferndale, Detroit, and Highland Park (and expanding to parts of Warren and Centerline in 2025), Mike brings a hands-o…

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Ep #81 Paleo Nerds at Nebraska's Prairie Pompeii 1:15:15

7M ago1:15:15

1:15:15

Ray takes a road trip with fellow Paleo Nerds to visit the great death assemblage, the "Rhino Pompeii", at the Nebraska Ashfall Fossil Beds State Historical ParkBy paleonerds

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James Geering on Frontline Wellness Solutions 1:03:00

8M ago1:03:00

1:03:00

In this episode of Minds on the Frontline, we sit down with James Geering, former firefighter, paramedic, and host of the acclaimed Behind the Shield Podcast. With over 1,000 episodes and 6 million downloads, James has become a trusted voice in the first responder community, offering powerful insights into mental and physical wellness. James shares…

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Navigating the Emotional Aftermath of Loss 36:49

8M ago36:49

36:49

In this episode, we welcome back Ashley Freeman, an EMT, mental health advocate, and volunteer with the Northwest Michigan Peer Support Network. Drawing from personal loss, including the suicide of her father and his mentor, Ashley shares her journey of resilience and her mission to support frontline workers in northwest Michigan. Her unique perspe…

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Ep #80 Walking Egyptian Whales from the Sahara with Dr. Hesham Sallam 1:00:01

8M ago1:00:01

1:00:01

Dave travels to Cairo, Egypt, for a fascinating interview with Dr. Hesham Sallam, Egypt's leading paleontologist and founder of the country's first Vertebrate Paleontology Center. As a fellow Paleo Nerd, Dr. Sallam shares insights into his groundbreaking work, his efforts to bring more women into the field, and the thrilling discoveries shaping Egy…

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Understanding Grief with Ali Amirsadri, M.D. 41:14

8M ago41:14

41:14

In this episode, we welcome Ali Amirsadri, M.D., a respected psychiatrist and mental health advocate. Dr. A serves as the Professor and Associate Chair for Clinical Services in the Department of Psychiatry at Wayne State University, the Chief Medical Officer for the Wayne Health Department of Psychiatry, and the Director of the FST5 Program. Drawin…

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Building Resilience with Mike Wierenga from 2 The Rescue 54:02

8M ago54:02

54:02

In this episode, we welcome Mike Wierenga, retired law enforcement officer, part-time firefighter, and co-founder of 2 The Rescue (TwoTheRescue.com). With over 31 years of public safety experience, Mike shares how his career shaped his passion for mental health advocacy and the mission of 2 The Rescue. We discuss his early experiences addressing fr…

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A sit down with Representative Mike Harris Michigan 52nd District 41:24

9M ago41:24

41:24

In this episode, we sit down with Michigan State Representative Mike Harris of the 52nd District. Mike is a retired police officer who brings firsthand insight into the mental and behavioral health challenges faced by frontline workers. Rep. Harris shares how his background in law enforcement shapes his policy approach, his advocacy for first respo…

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Beyond the call with Jim Marshall 1:01:17

9M ago1:01:17

1:01:17

In this episode, we welcome Jim Marshall, co-founder and CEO of the 911 Training Institute (www.911training.net) and author of The Resilient 911 Professional. A licensed mental health professional, Jim has dedicated his career to supporting the well-being of 911 dispatchers and emergency telecommunicators. He has developed science-driven training p…

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Ep #79 Teen Rex and the Triumph of Turtles with Tyler Lyson 1:07:07

9M ago1:07:07

1:07:07

Ray and Dave come out of there shells to talk Turtles and the latest T-Rex discovery with Vertebrate Paleontologist Tyler Lyson.By paleonerds

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Strength through support Featuring Brett Key, Warrior’s Rest Foundation 58:34

9M ago58:34

58:34

In this episode, Brett Key, co-founder and executive director of Warrior’s Rest Foundation (www.warriorsrestfoundation.org), shares insights from his 26-year law enforcement career and his mission to support first responders' mental health. Warrior’s Rest Foundation, rooted in peer support and specialized training, provides essential mental and emo…

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Heroes are also human - with Brandon Evans 1:02:38

9M ago1:02:38

1:02:38

In this episode, we sit down with Brandon Evans, a firefighter, researcher, and founder of Fire to Light. Drawing from over a decade of frontline experience, Brandon shares his journey of addressing mental health challenges in the firefighting community. Through his international study, "Heroes Are Also Human," he highlights gaps in awareness, stig…

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A sit down with Representative Joe Tate, Michigan Speaker of the House 37:51

10M ago37:51

37:51

In this episode, we sit down with Joe Tate, Michigan’s Speaker of the House and State Representative for the 10th District. Speaker Tate’s story is one of service, resilience, and leadership, shaped by his experiences as the son of a Detroit firefighter, a professional athlete, a Marine, and a public servant. We explore how his background influence…

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Minds on the Frontline Podcast (E34) – When Tragedy Strikes: Steps to take after a frontline worker’s suicide 53:24

10M ago53:24

53:24

September is Suicide Prevention Month, and to honor this important focus, the Minds on the Frontline podcast is dedicating episodes to addressing the urgent issue of suicide among frontline workers. During this episode, we dive deep into what happens after a frontline worker completes suicide. Mike and Manisha will guide us through the critical ste…

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Ep #78 The Business End of T-Rex with Pete Larson 1:17:53

10M ago1:17:53

1:17:53

Ray and Dave unearth the past with paleontologist Pete Larson, discussing Pete's paleo-nerd journey, his early discoveries, his commercial fossil enterprise, and his insights into controversial dinosaur debates.By paleonerds

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Suicide Prevention: Spot the Signs. Save a Life. 1:07:01

10M ago1:07:01

1:07:01

In this episode, we welcome back Manisha Leary, the FST5 Program Manager and a clinical psychotherapist specializing in trauma. September is Suicide Prevention Month, and to honor this important focus, the Minds on the Frontline podcast is dedicating episodes to addressing the urgent issue of suicide among frontline workers. Throughout this episode…

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Rhythms of Resilience: Annabelle’s Story 47:00

11M ago47:00

47:00

In this episode, we speak with Annabelle Sharp, a firefighter and paramedic, who shares her deeply personal journey through the grief that followed her father’s suicide in 2016. Annabelle turned to music as a lifeline, using songwriting to express her emotions and find healing. Her latest album, "Beyond Bishop," is a heartfelt tribute to her father…

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Ep #77 A Deep Dive Into the Paleostream with Artist Joschua Knüppe 1:07:26

11M ago1:07:26

1:07:26

Ray interviews the amazingly prolific German artist Joschua Knüppe who can quick draw an accurate dinosaur while the whole world watches online!By paleonerds

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The Emotional Side of Retirement Planning 41:35

11M ago41:35

41:35

In this episode, we sit down with Steve Perna, a retired firefighter and paramedic who served 25 years with the City of Warren. Steve shares his journey through the emotional challenges of a career in the fire service, from intense call volumes to the pressures of transitioning to an administrative role. He discusses the pivotal moment when he real…

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Mushroom Medicine: An Intro to Psilocybin Therapy 29:21

12M ago29:21

29:21

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and not medical advice; consult a healthcare provider for personal health concerns. In this episode, we explore the growing interest in psilocybin-assisted therapy, a promising treatment for frontline workers with anxiety, depression, and PTSD. We discuss clinical studies and legislative i…

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Ep 76 The Perfect Piscatorial Fossils of Paris with Dr. Alan Pradel 1:02:49

12M ago1:02:49

1:02:49

Dave flies across the pond and visits Dr. Alan Pradel, curator of fossil fishes at the National Museum of Natural History in Paris, France. Dr Pradel is an expert on early fishes and sharks. Très bon!By paleonerds

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CRACKYL Media: Championing Frontline Health and Wellness 30:19

1y ago30:19

30:19

In this episode, we sit down with Kory Pearn, a seasoned professional firefighter with over 21 years of experience and the founder of CRACKYL Media. CRACKYL Media creates engaging and authentic content focused on the health, wellness, and lifestyle of frontline workers, particularly firefighters. Kory's dual career as a firefighter and media profes…

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The Timeless Challenges of 911 Dispatchers 43:51

1y ago43:51

43:51

In this episode, we sit down with Francis X Holt, a retired FDNY dispatcher, seasoned behavioral health professional, and author. After a distinguished career in behavioral health spanning several decades and holding various executive roles, Frank has shifted his focus to writing. Drawing from his rich experiences as an FDNY dispatcher in 1970s and…

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Ep #75 The Fighting Finbacks of Seymour Texas with Chris Flis 1:07:14

1y ago1:07:14

1:07:14

Ray travels to the Permian and trolls the halls of the Texas Whiteside Museum of Natural History with museum director Chris Flis.By paleonerds