Family Strong Conference.

Co-founders of Challenge Day, an internationally recognized program dedicated to building connection, compassion, and emotional wellness in communities and families.

For nearly four decades, they’ve helped strengthen relationships around the world.

Rich is a former educator and therapist with a master’s in clinical psychology, and Yvonne is a longtime educator who has created more than 20 nationally recognized programs focused on emotional intelligence and family strengthening.

Featured on MTV and The Oprah Winfrey Show, they’re known for their warm, authentic style that inspires courage, vulnerability, and deeper connection.

They continue to bring a heart-centered approach to couples seeking growth, healing, and meaningful change.

A licensed clinical psychologist specializing in the mental health and relationship needs of first responders and their families.

As the spouse of a firefighter, she blends clinical expertise with personal insight, offering support that is both professional and deeply relatable.

She is the author of The Firefighter Family Academy, a practical guide helping fire families navigate emotional challenges with confidence and resilience.

Dr. Zemlok is also a national consultant and respected advocate, known for equipping families with tools for communication, wellbeing, and long-term connection.

Chief Petty Officer Matthew E. Mesker is a U.S. Navy SEAL with 20 years of distinguished service, including five deployments to Afghanistan, Africa, Europe, and Iraq.

A qualified sniper and Master Training Specialist, he has held leadership roles at SEAL Teams Two and Three and currently serves as Senior Enlisted Advisor for SEAL Officer Assessment and Selection.

His decorations include the Bronze Star with Combat V for Valor, multiple Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medals, and numerous unit awards.

Chief Mesker brings unparalleled operational experience and leadership expertise to every audience he engages.

Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in trauma-informed care, relationship dynamics, and family wellness. Drawing on attachment theory and somatic practices, she helps individuals and couples heal, grow, and strengthen their connections. With particular expertise in supporting firefighter families, Sara understands the unique challenges and demands of the fire service lifestyle. She is a sought-after speaker and facilitator, known for creating safe, engaging spaces where meaningful healing and growth can occur.

Sarah Flora Wilson is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and the owner/practitioner of Feather River Counseling in Oroville, California. She has 20 years of experience in mental health, specializing in supporting individuals, children, and families. Sarah utilizes strategies from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client-Centered Therapies, and trauma-based approaches such as EMDR. She is passionate about serving fire families, helping them navigate the unique challenges of first responder life, and many of her clients come from this community. As a resident of Butte County, Sarah is actively involved in her local community and takes a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach to therapy, empowering clients and families to build resilience and thrive.

Paul LeBaron is a 32-year law enforcement veteran who served more than 27 years with the Long Beach Police Department and later as Chief of Police for the Hermosa Beach Police Department until his retirement in April 2025.

As Chief, he prioritized employee wellness and organizational culture.

Paul holds degrees from California State University, Long Beach, and American Military University, along with a graduate certificate from the University of Virginia.

He is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and other executive leadership programs.

Paul married his wife in 1992 and has three children, two daughters-in-law, and two granddaughters.

He teaches criminal justice at CSU Long Beach, speaks fluent Spanish, and enjoys soccer and scuba diving.