30+ Years in EMS, 19+ Years Clean - Michael Worthen knows the weight of the job and the importance of speaking up.
Speaking Topics
Our expert speakers will guide you through the transformative power of virtual coaching,
offering insights that transcend boundaries.
Mental Health in the First Responder. Community
Discover a wealth of resources spanning articles, interviews, and expert insights.
Suicide Prevention for First Responders
Breaking stigma, spotting warning signs, and fostering a culture of support.
Elevate Events
How unspoken struggles impact teams, families, and communities.
20
Stages Spoken On
30
Years of Experience
4
Certifications and Awards
99%
Success for Clients
About Michael
From the Frontlines to the Front of the Room: My Mission to Save Lives Beyond the Call
Michael Worthen has spent over three decades on the frontlines as a paramedic, flight medic, and EMS Division Chief. He knows firsthand the toll the job takes — not just on the body, but on the mind and spirit. After overcoming his own battles with addiction and celebrating more than 20 years of recovery, Michael has dedicated his life to normalizing the conversation around mental health for first responders.
Today, Michael is a keynote speaker, advocate, and trainer who empowers firefighters, EMTs, police officers, and healthcare workers to confront stigma, build resilience, and find hope. His mission is simple: to save lives by sparking conversations that too often go unheard.
WHY BOOK MICHAEL?
Real Experience: 30+ years in EMS and Fire Services, including as Division Chief.
Relatable Story: 20 years sober, candid about the struggles many hide.
Proven Advocate: Featured keynote speaker for the Nevada Coalition for Suicide Prevention’s Walk in Memory, Walk for Hope (2021).
Certified & Trained: Holds advanced certifications in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM), Crisis Intervention, and Mental Health Resiliency.
Trusted Speaker: Regularly addresses EMS training centers, state organizations, and first responder agencies across Nevada.
Michael doesn’t just talk about mental health — he lives the reality of it and creates a safe space for others to do the same.
Latest Conferences & Keynote Highlights
Conversations That
Save Lives
Michael has been honored to share his story and message of resilience with first responders, healthcare professionals, and community leaders across Nevada and beyond. Each engagement is another step toward breaking the silence around mental health and suicide prevention in high-stress professions.
Recent Highlights
Nevada Coalition for Suicide Prevention
Community Ambulance – Henderson, Nevada
EMS Training Center of Southern Nevada
State of Nevada – Department of Public & Behavioral Health
NNSS Fire & Rescue (Nevada National Security Site)
September 23, 2025
Michael Worthen Speaks at the EMS Training Center of Southern Nevada
Michael has been honored to share his message with future first responders at the EMS Training Center of Southern Nevada. In these sessions, he speaks directly to EMT and paramedic students about the mental and emotional challenges they will face on the job, while equipping them with tools for resilience and awareness. His honest storytelling, combined with decades of frontline experience, helps prepare new responders to recognize the importance of mental health early in their careers — reminding them that seeking support is not weakness, but strength.
About Michael's Events
The Event Experience
When Michael takes the stage, audiences can expect more than just a keynote — they experience a conversation that feels real, relatable, and transformative. Drawing from over 30 years as a first responder and 20 years of recovery, Michael speaks with the authority of lived experience and the compassion of someone who understands the weight of the job.
His events combine powerful storytelling, practical strategies, and motivational insights that leave first responders and leaders better equipped to face mental health challenges head-on. Whether speaking to new recruits, seasoned professionals, or leadership teams, Michael creates a safe space for dialogue and delivers actionable tools that can be applied immediately.
What You Can Expect:
Authenticity: Honest, transparent storytelling from someone who has walked the path.
Connection: A relatable voice that resonates with first responders, leaders, and communities.
Inspiration: Messages that spark hope and remind audiences they are not alone.
Actionable Takeaways: Practical strategies for resilience, peer support, and suicide prevention.
Impact: A lasting impression that continues long after the event ends.
Frequently Asked Questions
What topics does Michael speak on?
Michael focuses on mental health, resilience, and suicide prevention for first responders. He also shares his personal story of recovery and leadership in high-stress professions, making his talks both motivational and practical.
Who is Michael’s message best suited for?
Michael’s presentations are designed for EMS, fire, law enforcement, healthcare workers, and organizations that support first responders. He also connects with leadership teams, educators, and community groups who want to better understand the challenges responders face.
How long are Michael’s keynote presentations?
Keynotes typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the event format. Michael also offers breakout sessions, workshops, and Q&A sessions for a deeper dive into mental health strategies and resilience training.
How can I book Michael for my event?
Booking is simple — just fill out the booking form on this website with your event details. Michael’s team will follow up to confirm availability, customize the presentation for your audience, and help ensure your event is a success.
