DC Firefighter Jonathan Tate is on a mission to improve the physical and mental well-being of first responders. Through Food on the Stove and the new Food for Thought initiative, Tate is tackling stigma, building community, and reminding first responders that caring for themselves is just as important as caring for others.

Jonathan Tate speaks with retired Fire Chief Marc Bashoor about his seminar “Could You Rescue You?” After personal wake-up calls, Bashoor committed to fitness and nutrition. This Equipped Talk explores his focus on health, moral focus, and mental toughness drawn from decades of experience in the fire service.

Lt. Jermaine Harris of the Chicago Police Department and DHS National Unit Chief Willie Crump discuss the challenges law enforcement faces in recruitment, retention, and community relations. They explore how micromanagement, often a response to these challenges, can hinder team effectiveness and morale.​

Lt. Jermaine Harris of the Chicago Police Department and Dr. Patrick Malone, Director of American University's Key Executive Leadership Programs, discuss the importance of adaptive thinking for first responders. They explore how self-awareness enhances decision-making in dynamic public safety environments.​

Jonathan Tate, D.C. Firefighter/EMT & Founder, Food on the Stove

Food on the Stove is a D.C.-based nonprofit founded to promote healthy lifestyle management from a holistic perspective. With programs ranging from healthy cooking demonstrations to partnerships with local farms to supply healthy food to firehouses, this firefighter-operated and focused organization has found innovative ways to fulfill its mission.

Maureen Stoecklein, Firefighter/Paramedic/Registered Dietitian, Canton Township Fire Department,

First responders are tactical athletes facing daily heightened levels of job-related mental and physical stress. They are expected to be high performing individuals, navigate life or death decisions, and manage extreme trauma in highly unpredictable environments. This talk offers a comprehensive yet simple approach to meeting the unique nutrition demands of first responders.

Dr. Paul Nystrom, Emergency Medicine Specialist, Hennepin Healthcare System Inc.

Sleep is something we often cut short for any number of reasons, or even for no reason at all. We intuitively know we need to get more, but do we prioritize it? What are the downsides of not getting enough? Nystrom explains why first responders must prioritize sleep.

B.K. Blankchtein, Chief Instructor, Masada Tactical Group

Over the past few years, attacks on EMS personnel responding to calls have increased significantly. EMS first responders must be prepared to protect themselves, their patients, or innocent bystanders as the situation dictates. Blankchtein covers the skills and methodologies designed specifically for the unique environment in which EMS operates.