Welcome back to another episode of The First Responder Playbook! In today’s episode, Brent sits down with George Pasansky, a globally recognized leader in operational excellence and the founder of Capacity to Care. With over three decades of experience spanning executive coaching, performance optimization, and systematic improvement, George Pasansky has worked with Fortune 500 companies and nonprofits worldwide, coaching over 10,000 professionals across six continents. Together, they dive into George Pasansky’s fascinating journey from military service to corporate leadership, touching on the lessons he learned about discipline, leadership, and building high-performance teams along the way. They explore the real meaning of leadership, the difference between holding a title and making an impact, and offer practical strategies for encouraging growth, communication, and excellence within any organization. You’ll also hear George Pasansky unpack key concepts from his book, ”Super Performance,” including the power of after-action reviews, the importance of defining clear outcomes and standards, and how embracing both successes and failures leads to unlocking true potential. Whether you’re in law enforcement, the military, or any team-oriented field, this episode is packed with insights to help you elevate your leadership game and bring out the best in yourself and your team. Don’t miss it!

Welcome back to The First Responder Playbook! In this episode, host Brent sits down with Doug Fifer, a retired Alaskan police officer with an unforgettable 25-year career in law enforcement. Doug takes us behind the scenes of his time with the Anchorage Police Department, where he specialized in everything from crime scene analysis and deviant sexual crimes to hostage negotiations and working with specialty units. Doug shares what drew him to the world of policing in Alaska, his transition from adrenaline-fueled patrol work to investigative roles, and the unique challenges that come with serving in one of the most dangerous states per capita in the U.S. He opens up about negotiating with serial killers, the psychological nuances of high-stakes situations, and the darker side of humanity he’s encountered on the job. We also dive into Doug’s recently published book, ”50 Shades of True Crime,” which offers readers a raw and unfiltered look at the most shocking—and often bizarre—cases he’s worked. Doug talks about the process of writing his book, the challenges of getting it published, and the exciting possibility of seeing his stories brought to the screen in a streaming docuseries. Throughout the conversation, Doug provides invaluable advice on staying safe from predators, the importance of following your instincts, and why kindness is more critical than ever. Whether you’re a true crime fan, a fellow first responder, or just curious about life on the Alaskan front lines, this episode is packed with fascinating stories and powerful insights you won’t want to miss.

Welcome to a brand new episode of The First Responder Playbook! In this episode, host Brent Colbert sits down with Gene Burke—author, speaker, karate black belt, and an operations leader with more than 30 years of experience. Gene shares how growing up in Brooklyn, overcoming bullying, and navigating a challenging home life ignited his lifelong pursuit of resilience, empathy, and personal growth. From discovering empowerment through weightlifting and martial arts to leading high-performing teams in both corporate and family businesses, Gene’s journey is filled with hard-earned lessons about mindset, discipline, and leadership evolution. Together, Brent and Gene dive into the soft skills of self-defense, practical tips for overcoming adversity, and the importance of balancing professional and personal life—especially for those in high-stress fields like first response and law enforcement. Plus, they discuss Gene’s writing journey, his books on leadership and self-defense, and essential advice for anyone facing bullying today. This conversation is packed with wisdom, real-life stories, and actionable insights for first responders, leaders, and anyone striving to be just a bit stronger, kinder, and more resilient—inside and out. Want to be a guest on The First Responder Playbook: Insights on Leadership and Training? Send Brent Colbert a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1748037097521814b71b1b454 Gene’s books: Eye’s Wide Open:https://amzn.to/4ooEsfe The Dojo of The Mind:https://amzn.to/4nNQyyn Play Nice, Work Smart: https://amzn.to/47r1kF2 Gene’s websites: https://www.ironroadleadership.com/

Welcome back to The First Responder Playbook! In this episode, host Brent sits down with Lynn Whitbeck—a powerhouse in sales leadership, business development, and relationship-building, with over 30 years of experience in executive sales and more than a decade of consulting under her belt. Lynn and Brent dive deep into how first responders can successfully transition into new ventures like coaching, insurance, realty, and financial planning by developing winning sales strategies that turn side gigs into thriving full-time businesses. Whether you’re new to sales or feeling stuck in the part-time hustle, Lynn shares actionable steps on how to find your ideal clients, build meaningful relationships, and create a sales strategy that works for you. She offers insights on the art of networking—both traditional and online—and explains why people buy from people, emphasizing the power of face-to-face connections and consistent follow-ups. Lynn even includes practical tips on leveraging email lists, structuring your outreach cadence, and moving past the fear of “bugging” your clients. Plus, hear Lynn’s journey from Girl Scout cookie salesperson to sales consultant, her experiences launching podcasts, and why she believes every small act of kindness can make the world a better place. If you’re looking to grow your business, expand your impact, or just want to be inspired by one of the most gracious and insightful guests out there, this episode is a must-listen!

Welcome to another episode of The First Responder Playbook! Today, Brent sits down with Vince Carter, CEO and host of the ”CFO at Home” podcast—a seasoned professional with over 37 years of corporate experience in engineering, project management, and finance. Vince dives into his journey from corporate America to financial coaching, sharing how he applied the principles of a corporate CFO to managing family finances. Together, Brent and Vince tackle the unique financial challenges faced by first responders, from juggling extra shifts and side gigs to the realities of burnout and the constant chase for financial stability. Vince offers practical, actionable steps—like setting a clear vision, working as a financial team at home, and managing risk through emergency funds—to help first responders gain control of their money and, ultimately, their lives. Whether you’re looking to get out of debt, communicate better about money with your partner, or simply want to be more intentional with your spending, this episode is packed with relatable stories, real talk, and expert advice to help you create a healthier financial future for you and your family. Tune in and discover how you can become the CFO of your own home!

Welcome back to The First Responder Playbook! In this episode, our host Brent sits down with Dr. Caroline Sangal, a true multi-hyphenate with a PhD in polymer science, a deep background in recruiting, coaching, and HR, and the founder of Next Success. Dr. Sangal shares her unconventional journey from the world of chemical engineering and adhesives to becoming a career coach dedicated to helping high-achieving professionals find genuine clarity and fulfillment in their work and lives. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Sangal opens up about personal experiences with burnout, questioning her own path, and the pressures of chasing success defined by others. She discusses her next success method, the science behind career satisfaction, and the powerful impact of aligning our work with our unique strengths and desires. Whether you’re a first responder contemplating your next move or simply seeking more meaning in your day-to-day, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration. Join us as we explore the realities behind career transitions, the importance of mental resilience, and why authentic success always starts from within.

Welcome back to another episode of The First Responder Playbook! This week, Brent sits down with Brian Hurtak—Fortune 100 executive, business leader, and author of the innovative leadership book, The Play Sheet. Inspired by the world of sports and his own journey through corporate America, Brian shares how an overwhelmed Sunday night turned into a game-changing leadership method. You’ll hear the fascinating backstory of how he borrowed the idea of a coach’s play sheet and applied it to business, personal development, and even parenting. Brian dives into building effective teams, navigating information overload, and creating a culture of excellence—lessons he gleaned from interviews with over 50 top coaches across the country. Whether you’re leading a first responder team, climbing the corporate ladder, or simply looking for a better way to turn knowledge into action, this conversation will give you new plays to add to your leadership toolkit. So grab your notepad—or maybe even your own play sheet—and get ready for some winning strategies on this episode of The First Responder Playbook!

Welcome back to another episode of The First Responder Playbook! Today, host Brent is joined once again by Sergeant V from DXI Training Solutions for a deep dive into the power of personality assessments in coaching and leadership—especially for those in the first responder community. Brent and Sergeant V share their personal experiences with different assessment tools, like Tilt365 and DISC, and discuss how these insights can help first responders better understand themselves and others. From building successful teams to improving one-on-one coaching, they break down the benefits (and a little history) of using these tools for personal and professional growth. Whether you’re a people-oriented leader or someone who prefers to focus on objectives, this episode is packed with practical takeaways to help you inspire change and elevate your team. Let’s get started! Want to be a guest on The First Responder Playbook: Insights on Leadership and Training? Send Brent Colbert a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1748037097521814b71b1b454

On this episode of The First Responder Playbook, I sat down with Heidi Chance, a 25-year detective and expert in human trafficking from the Phoenix Police Department. Heidi unpacked the realities frontline officers face, shared powerful stories from her groundbreaking career, and revealed how technology has changed the fight against trafficking. We discussed the warning signs every first responder and parent should know, the importance of mentorship in law enforcement, and why it’s crucial to support and empower one another in this challenging field. This isn’t just about policing—it’s about making real change. Don’t miss these lessons in leadership and resilience.

On this episode of The First Responder Playbook, I sat down with Dr. Matt Kutz, a PhD in global leadership, award-winning author, and passionate advocate for overcoming mediocrity. We dove into his “EPIC” leadership framework—excellence, perception, inspiration, and compassion—and explored why self-care is critical for first responders battling adversity and burnout. Dr. Kutz even shared how chaos can unlock your true potential. If you’re in leadership or want to elevate your mindset, this episode is packed with actionable wisdom you don’t want to miss.

Welcome back to The First Responder Playbook! In this episode, host Brent sits down with Coach Karen Gray—a powerhouse in the world of confidence coaching and the founder of The Confidence Coding. Karen draws on her decades of experience in the financial sector and her unique journey coaching pageant contestants to help high-level leaders, including first responders, rewire their beliefs and build unshakable confidence. With practical, brain-based strategies, Karen guides us through understanding the roots of self-doubt, the difference between “little t” truths and “big T” Truths, and the importance of self-worth. Plus, she shares insight from her personal life—including her husband’s experience in law enforcement—and offers actionable tips for anyone navigating the unique pressures of first responder roles. Whether you’re looking for ways to boost your confidence or searching for tools to help your team, this conversation has something for everyone. Tune in for an inspiring, candid discussion that might just change the way you see yourself and your leadership journey. Want to be a guest on The First Responder Playbook: Insights on Leadership and Training? Send Brent Colbert a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1748037097521814b71b1b454 Karen’s website: https://www.coachkarengray.com/ Karen’s Rock Movers Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DoZUB7AXAH8&list=PLJOFIf-C-uC-ErQlk3eogJdXcKCWnyHxX Karen’s free gift to my first responder listener’s, a free 30 minute call: https://calendly.com/coachkarengray/first-responders

Welcome to another episode of The First Responder Playbook! In this episode, host Brent sits down with Dr. Sherry Yellin, author of The Science of High Performance Leadership and creator of the Cranium methodology. With over 30 years of experience coaching leaders and transforming workplace cultures, Dr. Yellin brings a unique blend of neuroscience and practical strategies to the table. Together, Brent and Dr. Yellin dive deep into the importance of effective leadership in the first responder world, exploring how science-backed approaches can help leaders inspire trust, boost engagement, and achieve extraordinary results. Dr. Yellin shares her journey from college English teacher to leadership coach, discusses the power of coaching as a leadership style, and offers actionable insights for building resilient, high-performing teams. If you’re ready to learn about seven brain-based strategies that can enhance leadership and culture—especially in high-stress professions—this episode is packed with practical wisdom you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re a seasoned supervisor or an emerging leader, Dr. Yellin’s advice on adapting styles, fostering innovation, and developing others will help you become a leader worth following. Tune in and transform the way you lead!

Welcome to a new episode of The First Responder Playbook! Today, host Brent sits down with the remarkable Thomas R. Wilson—an internationally acclaimed writer, business owner, advocate, sensory-friendly event specialist, and passionate community leader. Thomas shares his deeply personal journey from being labeled a prodigy as a child to facing the harsh realities of stigma around neurodiversity and mental health in a time when those terms weren’t even part of the conversation. Through adversity, Thomas discovered his voice as a compassionate advocate—empowering himself and others while earning government recognition for his work. In this inspiring conversation, Thomas opens up about the struggles and triumphs that shaped his commitment to advocacy, storytelling, and helping underserved communities. He dives into how Dungeons & Dragons became a powerful tool for connection and skill-building, the importance of hope and purpose, and offers practical advice for first responders working with neurodiverse youth. Whether you’re looking to lead with more compassion, support your community, or just need a dose of hope, this episode delivers heartfelt wisdom, actionable tips, and a reminder that sharing our stories can shape a better future for everyone.

On this episode of The First Responder Playbook, I sat down with Ivan Wanis-Ruiz—Amazon best-selling author, expert communicator, and the official MC for global events like the FIFA World Cup and Olympics. Ivan broke down why traditional communication advice often misses the mark and gave us game-changing tactics for engaging any audience, from the boardroom to public safety teams. If you want to ditch boring presentations and connect on a real level, this episode will transform how you communicate and lead. Tap in—you don’t want to miss these insights!

On today’s episode of The First Responder Playbook, I sat down with Damian Bloss—mental health advocate, addiction recovery leader, and author. Damian shared his powerful story of overcoming alcohol addiction, turning his struggles into hope and support for others. We dove into the challenges of recovery, the importance of community, and how changing your mindset can transform your life. If you’re looking for inspiration, tools for personal growth, or proof that change is possible, you don’t want to miss this conversation. Tune in and take that first step—because you’re never alone on the journey.

Welcome to another compelling episode of The First Responder Playbook! Today, Brent sits down with Mr. Whiskey, host of the Couple O’ Nukes podcast—a U.S. Navy veteran, speaker, and modern-day preacher with a mission to turn trauma into transformation. Together, they dive deep into the unique challenges faced by first responders and military members: the impacts of shift work, the struggles with mental health, and the critical importance of supportive leadership. Mr. Whiskey shares raw, powerful stories from his own life and his father’s 25 years as a police officer, peeling back the curtain on the unseen emotional toll this work can take. From navigating a controlling and turbulent upbringing to enduring the grueling realities of the Navy’s nuclear program during the pandemic, he opens up about how those experiences shaped his path toward healing and helping others. Brent and Mr. Whiskey discuss everything from burnout and substance abuse in law enforcement, to the politics of military promotions, to what it really means to build a life—and an identity—outside the uniform. Along the way, they explore the healing power of storytelling, why leadership matters more than ever, and the inspiration behind the Couple O’ Nukes podcast, which now covers everything from suicide prevention to self-improvement and community-building. If you want gritty wisdom, heartfelt honesty, and takeaways for both life and leadership, this episode is one you won’t want to miss.

Welcome to another episode of The First Responder Playbook! In today’s conversation, host Brent sits down with Derrick Van Mell, founder and principal of the Center for Management Terms and Practices. Derrick’s mission is simple yet powerful: building a global community of caring leaders who set the bar high when it comes to ethics and competence. Together, Brent and Derrick dive into the ongoing challenges facing first responders—especially around leadership, management standards, and the disconnects that can happen between frontline workers and administration. Derrick shares insights from his extensive experience as a management consultant and shares practical strategies to bridge communication gaps, foster trust, and keep teams connected to their sense of purpose. He breaks down the often-blurred line between management and leadership, offering clear advice every first responder can use. The conversation also spotlights “the Index,” a free online toolkit for managers, and discusses key resources for effective meetings, planning, and professional development. Whether you’re new to leadership or a seasoned first responder, this episode is packed with wisdom on strengthening teams, building better managers, and staying true to the values that make an agency great. Don’t miss Derrick’s tips for leading with empathy—and hear how any manager, regardless of their title, can make work meaningful for everyone on the team.

Welcome back to another episode of The First Responder Playbook! In this episode, host Brent is joined once again by the insightful Sergeant V, who brings his experience and wisdom from the field to discuss one of the cornerstones of effective leadership: servant leadership. Together, they explore what it truly means to put the needs of your team and community first, rather than seeking recognition or personal advancement. Brent and Sergeant V share candid stories of their own challenges and lessons learned in leadership roles—like the pitfalls of chasing after numbers for self-promotion versus genuinely serving the public, and how understanding and supporting the unique motivations of every team member can be the key to success. They discuss practical ways to lead by example, the importance of being visible and present for your team, and the value of honest, anonymous feedback within agencies. Whether you’re a new supervisor or a seasoned officer, this episode is full of real talk and practical advice on how to inspire, motivate, and lift up those around you. Tune in for an engaging conversation on growing as a leader—and hear why the best leaders never forget where they came from.

Welcome back to The First Responder Playbook! In this episode, host Brent sits down with Tony Schmaltz, a seasoned leadership and peak performance coach who’s made a name for himself teaching at industry giants like Amazon. Tony shares powerful stories from his journey, starting as an “arrogant” young worker transformed by mentorship into a genuine leader driven to help others upgrade their lives. Together, they tackle some of the biggest questions facing first responders and leaders today: the real difference between leading and managing, why language is your most powerful tool, and how to stop people-pleasing without turning into a control freak. You’ll hear insightful discussion about the value of taking ownership—why constant complaining is a clear sign you’re not in the driver’s seat—and learn the importance of making agreements instead of operating on vague expectations. Tony dives into practical tools like the Wheel of Life, offers strategies to help first responders cope with tough days, and introduces his book “Wake the BLEEP Up,” written to break down the barriers holding you back. Whether you’re new to leadership or looking to sharpen your skills, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiration to help you lead with integrity, positivity, and impact. Grab your notebook—this conversation is one you won’t want to miss! Want to be a guest on The First Responder Playbook: Insights on Leadership and Training? Send Brent Colbert a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1748037097521814b71b1b454 Link to Tony's book: https://amzn.to/40KbSvo Tony's website: https://www.tonyschmaltz.com/ Tony's assessment: https://ultimateassessment.com/

Welcome to another episode of The First Responder Playbook! This week, host Brent sits down with Rodney Carpentier, an active law enforcement officer with nearly 20 years of experience in New York State. Rodney’s career has taken him from state corrections to patrol and investigations, and recently he climbed the ranks to lieutenant. But that’s not all—Rodney is also a published mystery writer, weaving his first responder experiences into gripping stories. In this episode, Rodney shares his unconventional journey into law enforcement, how an English major ended up working in corrections, and the valuable life and leadership lessons he’s picked up along the way. From memorable stories about infamous inmates to the power of legacy in police work, Rodney gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to succeed in this field. Plus, he dives into his budding career as an author, revealing how late nights, true crime podcasts, and a need for creative expression spurred him to write his debut mystery novel—and how he’s balancing the challenges of indie publishing with life as a first responder. Whether you’re interested in a career in law enforcement, love a good leadership story, or just want to hear how someone can be both a top cop and a novelist, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Tune in to hear Rodney’s story and learn what it really means to bring your whole self—and all your unique skills—to a life of service.