Code Grey

09/24/2025

Code Grey is headed to Texas!

Only 15 days until fire service leaders, psychologists, and masters-level mental health clinicians gather in Pearland, Texas for the 8th Annual Conference of the Fire Service Psychology Association (FSPA). FSPA is delighted to have Dr. Kari Mika-Lude (The Therapist) and Allen Lude (The Firefighter) on tap to jointly deliver their presentation, Rehumanizing the Heroes: Recognizing and Confronting the Dehumanization of First Responders (In case you’re wondering, the Doctor and the Firefighter are married)!

While understaffing and work-related stress are commonplace within first responder professions, contemporary challenges like COVID-19, political unrest, and economic downturn have added to the strain. Record numbers of first responders have been leaving the workforce, causing severe staffing shortages and subsequent delays in emergency care.

"Unfortunately, the public's view of first responders often strips away their humanity," said Mike-Lude, "While public perception can and does fluctuate, first responders tend to either be put on a pedestal and seen as heroes, or they are vilified and seen as bad guys."

Mika-Lude went on to say, "Cultural and institutional norms also play a role, encouraging a machine-like demeanor and shutting down emotions. This contributes to workforce threats like suicidality, moral injury, burnout, and diminished self-efficacy."

This dynamic presentation by Mika-Lude (a licensed therapist, researcher, and EMT) and Lude—a retired firefighter/EMT— will provide an in-depth look at the following:

• Dr. Mika-Lude's research findings on the ways in which first responders are dehumanized and the implications for their mental health
• The role of first responder culture and the importance of cultural competence for clinicians
• Practical strategies for rehumanizing this vital workforce, spanning clinical practice, advocacy, research, and higher education
Allen, who has 30+ years of experience as a first responder adds voice to the first responder perspective.

Hurry because the clock is ticking!
Still many good seats and hotel rooms available for the Conference but time is of the essence! Visit the FSPA Conference webpage at https://firepsychology.org/2025-fspa-conference/

09/19/2025

https://www.wrbl.com/news/deaths-of-2-columbus-firefighters-spark-push-for-first-responder-mental-health-resources/amp/?fbclid=IwdGRleAM5nllleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHg0VO0Tcvs5u7ZK9mF9RQVoxZ66GHuuvGdYi40nbsSy5J9ySuvNlx1HIT8go_aem_C02Dyvq5aO41k-W-aFWYFQ

EDITOR’S NOTE: This story mentions “su***de” and could be considered graphic to some readers. Reader’s discretion is advised. COLUMBUS, Ga. (WRBL) — The Columbus Fire and Em…

09/12/2025

09/11/2025

09/11/2025

To the heroes who ran toward the fire when the world stood still.
To the workers who never came home.
To the lives cut short yet never forgotten.

To the hands that held each other through the smoke and the sorrow.

To the firefighters, police, medics, and all who carried the weight of that day you showed them what it means to be unbreakable.

To the dogs, loyal and tireless,
who searched through devotion and purity.

And to every soul lost,your light rose higher than the towers, carried on wings of remembrance.

Today we bow in silence, for courage that inspires, for the memory that keeps the world united.

We remember. Always. 🦋 🇺🇸

08/29/2025

Aspire to Inspire co-founders Dr. Kari Mika-Lude and Allen Lude will be presenting Code Grey at the West Virginia Counseling Association Fall Conference & Retreat on Sept. 12th!

08/09/2025

Anyone into strongman.. or wanting to start?? Come on over tomorrow August 9th at 10am. Matt Arthur and others will be there training. Day passes will be just $5 if you’re not a member. Come and check it out. We are one of the most equipped training strongman facility around.

07/27/2025

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1Bq3KLknUx/?mibextid=wwXIfr