Welcome to The First Responder Playbook! In today's episode, Brent sits down with Justin Bocock, a retired homicide detective whose law enforcement journey took him from aircraft mechanic in the Air Force to the U.S. Secret Service, and then to a distinguished 20-year career at Mesa, Arizona Police Department. Named Arizona Homicide Investigator of the Year for pioneering the use of drone technology in crime scene investigations, Justin Bocock shares gripping stories from his time on patrol, breakthrough moments in detective work, and his evolution into a respected subject matter expert and author. Together, Brent and Justin Bocock delve into topics every first responder can relate to—handling bias in investigations, relying on good training, and the ever-changing world of technology in policing. Justin Bocock also discusses his debut book "On Call: Case Files from a Career in Homicide," which offers an authentic look behind the badge and valuable lessons for both true crime fans and fellow officers. Whether you’re interested in drone deployment, tackling complex cases, or the mindset needed for a career in law enforcement, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and a few laughs. So grab your notebook and join us as we learn from Justin Bocock's remarkable journey and the wisdom he has to offer the first responder community! 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 You want an energy drink with no crashing, no sugar, and 10 calories that tastes great? The Energy Drink is amazing and supports first responders! Use my link https://www.theenergydrink.com/thefirstrspndplbk and my code BRENTCOLBERT for 10 percent off your first order!   Justin's website: https://justinbocock.com/   Justin's book: https://amzn.to/4iZISYb    

On this episode of The First Responder Playbook, host Brent sits down with Ryan Reichert—a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel, executive coach, speaker, podcaster, and author based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. With over four decades of life experience, Ryan Reichert shares his journey from small town America to global leadership, including 23 years of military service and four combat deployments. We dive deep into his path to the Army, perspectives on service and leadership, and the challenges that come with transitions—both in and out of uniform. Drawing from personal struggles with addiction and loss, Ryan Reichert opens up about his journey to sobriety, spiritual transformation, and how he’s using his coaching and writing to empower others—especially first responders—who face similar battles. Tune in for stories of resilience, insight on finding purpose after a career in service, and practical advice for anyone navigating tough transitions. Whether you’re military, a first responder, or just looking for inspiration, this episode offers honest conversation and hope for anyone searching for a second chance. 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 Want an energy drink that is clean, no sugar, and tastes great plus supports first responders? Check out The Energy Drink! Use my link and put in the code BRENTCOLBERT for 10 percent off! https://www.theenergydrink.com/thefirstrspndplbk    Check out Ryan's books at : https://amzn.to/4pz1MrG   Ryan's website: https://ourprotectordevelopment.com/ 

Welcome to another powerful episode of The First Responder Playbook! Today, Brent sits down with Pat Welsh, whose career journey is nothing short of inspiring. From prosecutor to police officer and eventually a leader in law enforcement, Pat Welsh shares riveting stories from his decades on the force—including memorable and intense moments on patrol in Dayton, Ohio, one of the nation’s most violent cities during his tenure. In this episode, you’ll hear how Pat Welsh transitioned from law to law enforcement, the life-changing advice that pushed him to follow his childhood dream, and what it was really like working cases from homicides to human trafficking. Pat Welsh dives deep into his philosophy of “warrior servant leadership,” explaining how true leadership and serving others go hand in hand, whether you're on the job or at home. He opens up about the challenges of fighting burnout, the importance of a faith life, and why doing the right thing for the right reasons matters more than ever in today’s world. Whether you’re a first responder, leader, or anyone looking for some genuine inspiration, this episode offers insights, real-life lessons, and plenty of actionable wisdom. Get ready for stories that will stay with you—and leadership advice that can change how you show up for those who need you most. 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 https://www.theenergydrink.com/thefirstrspndplbk If you want an energy drink that supports first responders, use my link and use the code BRENTCOLBERT for 10 percent off.    Link to Pat's books: https://amzn.to/48rVYsl    Pat's podcast the Warrior Servant Leadership Podcast https://www.thewarriorservantleaderpodcast.com/     

Welcome to another episode of The First Responder Playbook! Today, Brent sits down with the inspiring Jacks O'hare, a lifestyle coach, speaker, and reinvention expert who helps ambitious women and first responders break free from burnout and self-sabotage to build fulfilling lives that truly fit. In this candid conversation, Jacks O'Hare shares her journey from a long career in the restaurant industry to finding her true calling in coaching, diving into the challenges of burnout, the struggle to maintain healthy boundaries, and the importance of self-awareness. She opens up about what it means to feel trapped by your identity at work, how she reinvented herself, and the practical ways she now helps others—especially women in male-dominated fields—navigate stress, build resilience, and reconnect with themselves. From relatable stories of pandemic burnout to actionable tips for regulating your nervous system and creating space for self-care, this episode is packed with insight, honesty, and encouragement. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by work or unsure how to move forward, you won't want to miss this heartfelt and empowering conversation. 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 Jack’s website: https://www.highvibescollective.co/ Link to my Amazon store: https://amzn.to/48jjYOw If you drink energy drinks and want to support first responders, order from this great company at: https://www.theenergydrink.com/thefirstrspndplbk and use code BRENTCOLBERT for 10 percent off!

Welcome back to The First Responder Playbook! In this episode, host Brent sits down with Johnny Tesone, a geologist, author, and creator of Geo Vortex, who has more than 30 years of experience spanning geology, corporate leadership, and field research. Johnny Tesone shares his extraordinary personal journey, from his out-of-body experience during the COVID-19 pandemic that transformed his perspective on geology, to the discoveries that inspired his book, Secrets of the Winds. Together, they delve into paradigm-shifting ideas connecting geology, ancient history, and the possibility of extraterrestrial influence on Earth. Johnny Tesone explains how his unique experiences in nature and science led him to uncover what he believes are the remnants of an extraterrestrial species embedded in our fossil record—the master key to understanding humanity's origins, the mysteries of ancient cultures, and phenomena like Bigfoot and UFOs. If you've ever wondered how science, spirituality, and the unexplained intersect, or if you're itching for stories of scientific adventure—and how leadership shows up even in the world of geologists out in the field—this is an episode you won't want to miss. Join Brent and Johnny Tesone as they explore a world where Earth's past, present, and future are far more connected and mysterious than we ever imagined. 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. Johnny's website: https://geovortex.net/ Link tto Johnny'sbooks: https://amzn.to/4piDwcG  Try my new affiliate, The Energy Drink, out! Only 10 calories, started by retired firefighters, and a portion of each sale goes to first responders! We all drink them, drink one that actually supports a good cause! Get them at: https://www.theenergydrink.com/thefirstrspndplbk and use the code BRENTCOLBERT for 10percent off!

Welcome back to The First Responder Playbook, where we dive deep into the stories and strategies shaping the world of frontline heroes. In this episode, Brent sits down with Kara Kalin, the accomplished founder of Shift Change, a registered clinical counselor, EMDR-certified therapist, and former Canadian national team coach. Together, they explore the remarkable intersections of high performance, psychological resilience, and mental health—especially as they relate to first responders. Kara Kalin opens up about her unique journey from the world of competitive sports to trauma counseling, revealing the challenges of leaving behind a lifelong dream in pursuit of something greater. She shares not only her personal experiences with self-discovery, critical incidents, and significant life transitions, but also how she harnessed her background to develop innovative, accessible mental health solutions for first responders and frontline workers. Join us as we unpack the transformative power of EMDR therapy, the importance of early intervention after trauma, and the cultural shifts needed to support better those who serve our communities every day. Whether you’re in uniform or simply passionate about mental health, this candid conversation will offer insight and encouragement for anyone navigating the complexities of trauma, recovery, and resilience. Kara's websites: https://www.karakalin.com/ https://www.shiftchange.life/ 

Welcome back to another episode of The First Responder Playbook! In today’s episode, Brent sits down with George Pesansky, 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 Pesansky has worked with Fortune 500 companies and nonprofits worldwide, coaching over 10,000 professionals across six continents. Together, they dive into George Pesansky’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 Pesansky 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! 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 https://georgepesansky.com/ George's book: https://amzn.to/3JraIPW 

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. 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 Doug's website: https://dougfifer.com/ Doug's book: https://amzn.to/4oozMWn

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! 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 https://petite2queen.com/about-us/lynn-whitbeck/

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! 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 Vince's website: https://www.thecfoathome.com/

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. 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 Dr. Sangal's website: https://nextsuccesscareers.com/

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! 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 Brian's website: https://myplaysheet.com/

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!

Welcome back to The First Responder Playbook! In this powerful episode, host Brent Colbert is joined by Heidi Chance, a 25-year veteran detective of the Phoenix Police Department with deep expertise in sex trafficking and human exploitation cases. Heidi shares her third-generation law enforcement roots and the unique path that led her into one of the department’s most challenging units. Together, they dive into what it takes to spot the subtle signs of trafficking—both on patrol and in schools—and why evolving police training is crucial in the fight against these hidden crimes. Heidi reflects on unforgettable cases, the critical role of documentation and evidence, and offers practical advice for officers and parents alike. She also opens up about her transition from law enforcement to author and national trainer, revealing the stories that inspired her book Talk to Them, a guide for parents on having tough, protective conversations with their kids. Whether you’re on the frontlines or supporting from the community, this episode is packed with real-life lessons, encouragement for first responders, and a call for compassion and mentorship within the ranks. Join us for an honest, eye-opening conversation that reminds us why the fight is worth it—and how everyone plays a part in protecting the vulnerable. 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 https://www.achanceforawareness.com/about

Welcome to another episode of The First Responder Playbook! In this episode, host Brent sits down with Dr. Matt Kutz, a PhD in global leadership, award-winning author, educator, and dedicated family man. Dr. Kutz brings his expertise in athletic training and leadership to the table, sharing his unique journey from sports medicine to earning his doctorate—all while balancing family life and a demanding career. Together, Brent and Dr. Kutz explore the powerful concepts behind Dr. Kutz’s book "Becoming Epic," breaking down the leadership maxims of excellence, perception, inspiration, and compassion. They discuss how first responders can use these principles to rise above mediocrity, combat burnout, and practice self-care in high-stress environments. Dr. Kutz also dives into his innovative Contextual Intelligence Profile, designed to help leaders navigate uncertainty and improve team dynamics. Whether you’re a first responder looking to strengthen your leadership skills or simply seeking inspiration to overcome adversity, this episode is packed with actionable insights and motivating stories. Tune in to learn how you can become an epic leader—both on and off the front lines. 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 Dr. Kutz's website: https://drmattkutz.com/

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 free discovery call for first responder's: 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! 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 Dr. Yellin's website: https://yellingroup.com/  

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. 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 Thomas's links: https://rhcreativeadvocacyandstorytelling.net/ linktree: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-wilson-42762927b?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=android_app linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-wilson-42762927b/ email: ndttrpg@gmail.com Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=9643132&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator

Welcome back to The First Responder Playbook! In today’s episode, Brent sits down with Ivan Wanis-Ruiz—the Amazon bestselling author of “End Boring: A Tactical Approach to Communication,” a top-rated Coursera instructor, and a seasoned emcee for world-class events like the FIFA World Cup and the Olympics. Ivan brings his trademark energy and candid insights to a conversation all about what actually works when it comes to real-world communication—for first responders, leaders, and anyone who’s ever sat through a mind-numbing PowerPoint. From his early days leading workshops on racism and violence to his deep dive into what makes public speaking effective (and what doesn’t), Ivan shares why formal, information-heavy presentations fall flat, and how small, tactical changes can make your message not just heard—but remembered. You’ll hear about wrestling’s persuasion secrets, practical PowerPoint hacks to boost engagement, why mistakes are storytelling gold, and the science (and myths) behind lie detection. If you’ve ever wondered how to break free from “death by PowerPoint,” keep people engaged, or become a communicator people actually want to listen to, this episode delivers. Ivan’s hands-on advice and memorable stories will inspire you to make every presentation—and every interaction—count. 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 Ivan's book: https://amzn.to/41mRP6r Ivan's website: https://www.publicspeakinglab.com/