IGNITEd Firefighter Podcast

Have you ever convinced yourself someone was mad at you, only to find out they weren't even thinking about you? Yeah, me too. Our brains love to fill in the blanks... but sometimes, the stories we tell ourselves are complete lies. And those lies can wreck our peace, our relationships, and our progress. Today, we're going to expose those lies—and forge something better in their place.--SHOW NOTES & LINKS:Join The Forge! (Application)Forged by FIRE Facebook GroupBuy my book!Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book)BOOKS, ARTICLES, VIDEOS, & PODCASTS:Key & Peele - Text Conversation Goes Very Wrong (YouTube)The Mel Robbins Podcast (Bryan Stevenson)

There's a big difference between leading people and lording over them. One earns respect… the other demands obedience. One builds trust… the other breeds fear. And if you don't know which one you're doing, you might be the problem. Let's talk about it.--SHOW NOTES & LINKS:Join The Forge! (Application)Forged by FIRE Facebook GroupBuy my book!Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book)

If your life feels off course right now, there's one truth you need to face—you are the only one who can change it. Not your boss. Not your spouse. Not your past. Leadership doesn't begin when someone hands you a title. It begins the moment you decide to stop blaming and start building. This is the episode that's going to call you out—and call you up.--SHOW NOTES & LINKS:Join The Forge! (Application)Forged by FIRE Facebook GroupBuy my book!Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book)

Let me say this loud and clear—If you're turning away high-quality people because of some bullsh*t bureaucratic process, you're not protecting standards…You're protecting your ego.When policies matter more than people, when red tape strangles real leadership, when your process is more sacred than your principles—You're not leading a culture. You're managing decay.It's time to call it out ground, Let's go.SHOW NOTES & LINKS:Join The Forge! (Application)Forged by FIRE Facebook GroupBuy my book!Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book)

Accountability is the bridge between your intentions and your results. But here's the truth — not everyone chooses to cross it. Some rise above the line, taking ownership, solving problems, and driving their lives forward. Others fall below the line, trapped in excuses, blame, and victim thinking.In today's episode, we're unpacking a powerful framework that will challenge the way you lead yourself and others. If you want more ownership, more impact, and more resilience, stay with me. This is an episode you're going to want to share with your whole team.--SHOW NOTES & LINKS:Join The Forge! (Application)Forged by FIRE Facebook GroupBuy my book!Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book)Culture Partners (Website)

Ever feel like you're running on empty but still expected to give more? Or maybe you've gone quiet, pulled back, and wonder if it's burnout… or just self-preservation. What if I told you there's a difference—and knowing which one you're in could change everything? Let's talk about it.--Join The Forge! (Application)Forged by FIRE Facebook GroupBuy my book!Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book)

I've seen it happen on the fireground, in the station, and in everyday life. The moment someone starts believing they're untouchable, the moment they stop listening, stop learning—that's when disaster strikes. It's the firefighter who ignores their training because they ‘know better.' The leader who refuses feedback. The person who thinks they're above failure. Hubris isn't just arrogance—it's a blind spot. And in the end, it leads to one thing: Nemesis--SHOW NOTES & LINKS:Join The Forge! (Application)Forged by FIRE Facebook GroupBuy my book!Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book)

You know that feeling when you're in the thick of it? When everything feels heavy, progress feels slow, and doubt starts creeping in? That's the fire. And if you learn to embrace it, that's where the magic happens.Struggle isn't failure. Struggle is the path. And today, I'm going to shift how you see it. I'm going to show you how to take that resistance and turn it into fuel.Let's go!SHOW NOTES & LINKS:Join The Forge! (Application)Forged by FIRE Facebook GroupBuy my book!Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book)

What if I told you that the biggest thing standing between you and your goals isn't your skill, your talent, or even your resources... but your belief?Let's be real—most of us don't struggle with setting goals. We struggle with believing they're possible. We tell ourselves, “I'll believe it when I see it.” But here's the truth: you'll see it when you believe it.Today, we're going to break down why your belief system is the most powerful tool you have, and more importantly, how to shift it to work in your favor. By the time we're done, you're going to walk away with a mindset shift and a game plan that'll help you start believing before you achieve.--SHOW NOTES & LINKS:Join The Forge! (Application)Forged by FIRE Facebook GroupBuy my book!Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book)BOOKS, ARTICLES, VIDEOS & PODCASTS:

Today, we're diving into a powerful and ancient concept—theRefiner's Fire. Now, if you've been with me for past episodes, you know that we've talked a lot about how struggle isn't just something to survive—it's something toharness. Whether it was in the episode on overcoming fear or building resilience, we've seen time and again that the challenges we face are shaping us into stronger, more capable individuals.But today, we're going even deeper. Because theRefiner's Fire isn't just about making it through difficulty—it's about beingtransformed by it. It's about using life's most intense moments to burn away what's unnecessary and reveal somethingmore pure, more refined, and more powerful than before.So if you're in a season of struggle, if you feel like you're being tested, if January 2025 was the longest January of your life, if you're wondering how to find purpose in the pain—this episode is for you.SHOW NOTES & LINKS:Join The Forge! (Application)Forged by FIRE Facebook GroupBuy my book!Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book)BOOKS, ARTICLES, & VIDEOS:Scriptural reference:Malachi 3: 2-3TED Talk:Angela Lee Duckworth: "Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance"Psychological Perspectives on Resilience:Mayo Clinic: "Resilience: Build Skills to Endure Hardship"American Psychological Association: "Building Your Resilience"

Welcome to Forged by FIRE, the podcast where we break down strategies for building resilience and igniting purpose in your life. I'm your host, Ryan Rodriquez, and today, we're diving into something deeply personal and powerful: my word for the year—ENDURE. Let me start with a quick story. A few weeks ago, I was finishing a grueling strength training session. You know that moment when your body is screaming at you to stop, but your mind is what keeps you going? That's endurance. It's a word that's been resonating with me a lot lately. This year, I'm not just focusing on getting through challenges; I'm aiming to grow stronger because of them. I want to share why this word matters so much to me and how it can change your life too. SHOW NOTES & LINKS: Join The Forge! (Application) Forged by FIRE Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book)

If you've ever felt stuck in a toxic workplace, frustrated by bad behavior, or convinced that change isn't possible, this episode is for you. Together, we'll unpack why this thinking is false, how it normalizes poor treatment, and what you can do to challenge it. By the end of this episode, you'll know how to use the FIRE Framework to thrive internally, make meaningful changes externally, and build a path forward—even if you're in a tough environment. Let's dive in and start forging a better way. -- SHOW NOTES & LINKS: Join The Forge! (Application) Forged by FIRE Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book)

Life will knock you down—it's not a matter of if, but when. The question is, will you get back up stronger? In today's episode of Forged by FIRE, I'm sharing the secrets to resilience—how to turn setbacks into comebacks, and challenges into fuel for growth. If you've ever felt overwhelmed or stuck, this is the episode you can't afford to miss. Stay with me, and by the end, you'll be equipped to face anything life throws your way—and thrive. Let's ignite that fire! -- SHOW NOTES & LINKS: Join The Forge! (Application) Forged by FIRE Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) BOOKS, ARTICLES, & VIDEOS: Resilience: A Mindset for Everyday Life | Joana Baquero | TEDxUTulsa --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forgedbyfirewithryan/support

The saying, “It could always be worse” seems like harmless advice or a way to stay positive, but in reality, it often dismisses the struggles we face, keeps us stuck, and even excuses behavior or situations that aren't okay. In today's episode, I will break it down and reframe this thinking so it aligns with growth, positivity, and resilience. SHOW NOTES & LINKS: Join The Forge! (Application) Forged by FIRE Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) BOOKS, ARTICLES, & VIDEOS: TED Talk - The Gift and Power of Emotional Courage | Susan David (YouTube) --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forgedbyfirewithryan/support

Welcome to Episode 221 of Forged by FIRE, the podcast that focuses on leadership, accountability, and self-mastery. I'm your host, Ryan Rodriquez. Today, we're diving into a critical topic for anyone looking to improve their relationships, boost their productivity, and protect their well-being: setting boundaries. As many of you know, my FIRE Framework focuses on achieving 12-week goals in Fitness, Intellect, Relationships, and Energy. Today, we're zeroing in on Relationships, because boundaries are foundational to building trust, fostering alignment, and creating deeper connections with others—whether it's your spouse, team, or community. So let's get into the 4 Ways to Set Boundaries. By the end of this episode, you'll have practical tools to apply these strategies and build stronger relationships in every area of your life. -- SHOW NOTES & LINKS: Join The Forge! (Application) Forged by FIRE Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forgedbyfirewithryan/support

Welcome to Forged by FIRE, the podcast where we ignite the flames of accountability, discipline, and progress. I'm Ryan Rodriquez, and today, we're tearing down one of the biggest lies ever sold to you in the workplace; that“your workplace is your family.” It's one of those phrases that sounds warm and fuzzy, doesn't it? But the truth is, it's toxic. It sets you up for disappointment, burnout, and misplaced priorities. By the end of this episode, not only will you understand why this mindset is harmful, but I'm also going to show you how the FIRE Framework can protect your mental and emotional health. And stick around, because I'm going to ask you one important question at the end: Why aren't you part of The Forge yet? Let's dive in. -- ⁠Join The Forge! (Application)⁠ ⁠Forged by FIRE Facebook Group⁠ Buy my book! ⁠Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book)⁠ ARTICLES/TOOLS: ⁠The Toxic Effects of Branding Your Workplace a “Family” by Joshua A. Luna (Harvard Business Review)⁠ ⁠The end of work spouses and work besties: Why now, more than ever, work is not your family by Kathleen Davis (Fast Company)⁠ AUDIO/VIDEO: ⁠Work is not your family | Gloria Chan Packer | TEDxUTAustin⁠ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forgedbyfirewithryan/support

Ever feel like your workplace is drowning in rules?

Time is the one thing we all want more of, but the truth is, it's slipping away every second. Every hour spent scrolling on your phone or watching another episode on Netflix is an hour you'll never get back. So, are you going to keep making excuses for why you ‘don't have time,' or are you ready to take control and make time for what really matters? This episode centers around the power of owning your time. We'll explore why time is the most precious resource you have, how allowing distractions to dominate your schedule makes you a slave to them, and how strategies like time-blocking can help you reclaim your day and use it to fuel your personal growth. The theme is simple: you either run your day, or it runs you. In today's episode, we're going to talk about how to make time, not excuses. We'll uncover the passive time-wasters lurking in your day, and I'm going to give you a strategy I swear by—time-blocking. Stick around, because by the end of this episode, you'll have a game plan to take back control of your time and use it to build the life you actually want. Let's jump in! -- Join The Forge! (Application) Forged by FIRE Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forgedbyfirewithryan/support

Let me ask you something—when was the last time you truly paused? Not just took a day off, but really stepped away from the noise, disconnected, and gave yourself the space to breathe and reset? If you're like most people, the answer is probably ‘I can't remember.' Well, today, we're talking about the ultimate power move in a world obsessed with hustle—retreating. And no, it's not running away. It's about finding the clarity and strength you need to come back even stronger. Retreating is not a luxury, it's a necessity. In a world of constant hustle, hitting pause is the ultimate power move. It doesn't mean you've got to take a month off, it could mean taking an afternoon for yourself outside, in your favorite chair with a cup of coffee, using your favorite patriotic mug. In today's episode, we're diving into the six powerful reasons why taking a retreat is essential for your health, well-being, and personal growth. We'll explore how stepping away from the grind can help you reset mentally, physically, and emotionally—so you can come back stronger, more focused, and ready to take on whatever life throws your way. -- SHOW NOTES/LINKS: Join The Forge! (Application) Forged by FIRE Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) ARTICLES/TOOLS: EXOS Sports Performance Training (Phoenix, AZ) ResortPass Las Palomas Beach & Golf Resort --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forgedbyfirewithryan/support

What if I told you that the secret to unlocking your greatest potential lies in ancient wisdom from feudal Japan–and that you can use it to master the four key areas in your life?  This four-tiered class system consists of the archetypes of Warrior, Farmer, Artisan, and Merchant and they perfectly tie into the FIRE framework of Fitness, Intellect, Relationships, and Energy. In today's episode, I'm going to introduce you to these archetypes, explain how they directly relate to the FIRE framework, and how combining them provides a practical and powerful tool for achieving growth in all areas of life. -- SHOW NOTES/LINKS: Join The Forge! (Application) Forged by FIRE Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) ARTICLES/TOOLS: The Four-Tiered Class System of Feudal Japan AUDIO/VIDEO:Being different in the fire service, be like…VIDEO --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forgedbyfirewithryan/support

How many times have you played a video game and gotten super frustrated to the point that you felt like throwing the controller? Did you give up and throw it? Did you quit the game in your frustrated state, or did you take a breath and press on until you beat the level or the game entirely? Our emotions are great indicators for us being at a crossroads and they offer us a point in time where we get to actively choose how we want to move forward. You see lots of stickers and shirts out there that say things like, “Be nice” or “Happiness is attractive”, but you know what I find attractive? People who know what true anger feels like and they take that anger and make something amazing from it. People who have been beaten into the dirt, they stand up, dust themselves off and come back stronger from the challenges they face. Those are my people. In today's episode, I'm going to talk about those emotions that foster our dark energy, how we can use our dark energy to do amazing things, and some reasons why you should consider this approach the next time you're experiencing so-called negative emotions. Join The Forge! (Application) Forged by FIRE Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) How to Get Motivated - by Losing?! By Monica Wadhwa (Audio) Transcript The Power of Not Winning - Dr. Monica Wadhwa (YouTube) Why We Need to Talk About Shame - Brene Brown (YouTube) --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forgedbyfirewithryan/support

Success is something that we all have to define for ourselves. We need to take a step back from what we're doing, look at the road we are on, and ask ourselves if it will lead us to what we ultimately believe success to be. However, we need to identify the things that would keep us on the right track or throw us off course. In today's episode, I will share three questions that will help you stay aligned in your definition of success so you can make adjustments or maybe even start a different path altogether. -- SHOW NOTES/LINKS: Join The Forge! (Application) Forged by FIRE Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forgedbyfirewithryan/support

Welcome back to another episode of Forged by FIRE, where we turn the heat up on self-improvement and accountability. I'm your host, Ryan Rodriquez, a seasoned firefighter and paramedic, here to share my experiences and insights to help you forge a better version of yourself.  Today, we're diving into a concept from the EMS world—the pain scale—and how you can use it to measure and improve different aspects of your life using my FIRE framework. Buckle up; this one's going to be both educational and empowering! -- Join The Forge! (Application) Forged by FIRE Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forgedbyfirewithryan/support

Today we are diving into the heart of what separates the dreamers from the doers: taking risks. Are you ready to step out of your comfort zone and embrace the unknown? Do you have the courage to chase after what seems impossible and turn it into your reality? In today's episode, 'No Risk, No Reward!', we're going to explore how taking calculated risks can transform your life, unlock new opportunities, and propel you towards your goals faster than you ever imagined. I'll be sharing powerful examples of individuals who took bold leaps and reaped incredible rewards, touching on the psychology behind risk-taking, and most importantly, giving you practical steps to harness the FIRE Framework to ignite your own journey. I hope you'll feel inspired, educated, and empowered to take that leap of faith. Remember, fortune favors the bold, and no risk means no reward! -- Join The Forge! (Application) Forged by FIRE Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forgedbyfirewithryan/support

Welcome to the Forged by FIRE Podcast, where we ignite your potential and help you forge the life you desire. I'm your host, Ryan Rodriquez, and today, we're diving into an essential topic: setting and achieving your goals. In this episode, we'll explore a powerful framework to help you turn your dreams into reality, focusing on four key elements: Motivation, Action, Time, and Results. Whether you're striving for personal growth, career success, or any other ambition, these principles will guide you every step of the way. So, let's get started and forge ahead on the path to achieving your goals! -- Join The Forge! (Application) Forged by FIRE Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forgedbyfirewithryan/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forgedbyfirewithryan/support

When it comes to relationships, the quality of people we keep in our circle has an effect on our progress or lack thereof. It's been said that we are the average of the 5 people we spend the most time with. So why wouldn't we want to spend time with amazing people? By curating our network of friends and acquaintances, we can improve the quality of our lives and in a reciprocal manner, improve the quality of the lives of our friends.  In today's episode, I'm going to talk to you about the 4 tiers of your network and I will show you how to curate them with something called “The Funnel Test”. -- SHOW NOTES/LINKS: Join The Forge! (Application) Forged by FIRE Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) ARTICLES/TOOLS: Personal Values Assessment VIDEOS: Your Network is Your Net Worth | Porter Gale (YouTube) Storybrand One Liner Exercise | Donald Miller | Entreleadership (YouTube) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forgedbyfirewithryan/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forgedbyfirewithryan/support

In the fire service, we are often heard telling each other to “suck it up” or “deal with it”. And while these phrases might seem harsh, there's a lot of truth to them. Many people hear these phrases and think it means that they just need to ignore their problems and keep going despite any pain or trauma they have endured, but that couldn't be further from the truth. One of the ways that this is manifested on the fire ground is by establishing a “rehab sector” that allows crews to have a respite where we can rest, hydrate, and get new bottles for our air packs. This allows us to do a mini reset to return to fighting the fire. In today's episode, I will talk about how we can “deal with it” when it comes to the different types of trauma we endure, why we need to provide ourselves with ways to do a mini reset so we aren't killing ourselves or exposing others to our collateral damage.  -- Join The Forge! (Application) Forged by FIRE Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forgedbyfirewithryan/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forgedbyfirewithryan/support

The whole process of refinement is all about continual improvement. If you've been listening to the podcast for any amount of time, you'll know that the way I started is a bit different than where I am now. And in my opinion, much better. My goal is to focus on the FIRE framework that I've developed to help people from all over the world gain insight into what lights them up. I'm acting as your guide to get you to where you want to be in the most effective and efficient way possible. In today's episode, I will be launching the newest version of the podcast, now called, “Forged by FIRE with Ryan Rodriquez”, and I will be drilling down on what it means to be ‘forged'. I will also share with you the framework that is at the foundation of true success. -- SHOW NOTES/LINKS: Join The Forge! (Application) Forged by FIRE Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forgedbyfirewithryan/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/forgedbyfirewithryan/support

As May marks Mental Health Awareness Month, it's crucial to emphasize the significance of prioritizing our mental well-being. Whether you're a first responder or not, neglecting mental health can have profound effects on our lives. If your head isn't right, nothing else will be either. In today's episode, we'll delve into what mental health entails, offer a self-assessment through five key questions, and provide practical daily habits to nurture your mental well-being. -- SHOW NOTES/LINKS: Join The Forge! (Application) IGNITEd Podcast Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) ARTICLES/TOOLS: Your Mental Health Today (Test) - Psychology Today VIDEOS: We All Have Mental Health (YouTube) How To Manage Your Mental Health | TEDx (YouTube) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ignitedff/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ignitedff/support

As we go throughout our lives, we more often than not feel a sense of belonging at our places of work, within our families, and the people we choose to spend our time with. But sometimes we just don't “fit in”. That can make things awkward, it can stifle us and it can impact our mental health in some seriously negative ways. But what's the difference between belonging and fitting in? And what can we do to remove the uncomfortable and limiting feelings we get when we don't? In today's episode, I will distinguish the difference between what it means to belong vs “fit in”, how acting intentionally can work for us or against us, and how giving up the effort to “fit in” leaves more energy for things that truly matter. -- You Do Not Need to “Fit In” to Belong | Nila Conzen (Article) Braving the Wilderness: The Quest for True Belonging and the Courage to Stand Alone by Brene Brown (Book) Join The Forge! (Application) IGNITEd Podcast Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ignitedff/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ignitedff/support

We hear the term “resilience” a lot lately; mental resilience, emotional resilience, and physical resilience. Sometimes we don't know what that means. I've heard people describe resilience as a person's ability to “take a punch and get back up”. But what about being able to see the punch before it happens and dodge it? Today I'm going to talk about how we can embrace resilience proactively and give you strategies for things you can do BEFORE the stuff hits the fan so when it DOES, you can take minimal damage. -- Join The Forge! (Application) IGNITEd Podcast Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) ARTICLES/TOOLS: Proactive Resilience versus Reactive Resilience (Article) The Importance of “Proactive” Resilience (Article) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ignitedff/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ignitedff/support

Sometimes it can be difficult to stay on track when it comes to achieving your goals. Discipline is the name of the game; doing a repeated behavior day in and day out until you achieve your desired outcome. This process can be monotonous which can lead to you falling off your desired path. One of the ways that I stay on track is by gamifying my goals. What this does is help me stay mentally engaged so I don't get bored with my desired pursuit.  In today's episode, I will share with you what it means to gamify your goals and I will share with you the 7 steps that I take to accomplish great things. -- SHOW NOTES/LINKS: Join The Forge! (Application) IGNITEd Podcast Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) ARTICLES/TOOLS: 3 Ways to Gamify Your Life (Article) Gamify Your Life and Become Massively Successful (Article) The Secret Psychology of Why We Love Completing To-Do Lists (Article) Forest Tracking (App) STREAKS Tracking (App) Habitica - Gamify Your Goals! (App) VIDEOS: 5 Great Apps to Gamify Your Life (YouTube) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ignitedff/message

How do you define “wisdom”? Is it the practical application of knowledge? Is it simply the curation of information? There are lots of different ways to define the term “wisdom”, but I think my favorite way to describe the difference between knowledge and wisdom is this; “knowledge is knowing that a tomato is a fruit, wisdom is understanding that it doesn't belong in a fruit salad.” As I go throughout my day, I intentionally seek ways to gain wisdom. What this does is expand my understanding of a multitude of topics from science, to art, to business, to technology. If there's a podcast for it, then it's something that I can learn about. The amount of information out there can seem daunting, but there is a way you can simplify things so that you can gain wisdom daily. In today's episode, I will share with you why it's important to gain wisdom daily, I'll share with you some ways that I practice this principle, and I will give you some ideas on how you can introduce this habit so you can expand your understanding of the world (& the people) around you. -- SHOW NOTES/LINKS: Join The Forge! (Application) IGNITEd Podcast Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ignitedff/message

Have you ever approached an escalator that goes up only to see an out of order sign that says, “Out of service, take the stairs”? What did you do when you saw that sign? Was it ever an option for you to just accept the fact that the fast and easy track to the next level was out of your reach and just decided to NOT take the stairs? You can probably see where I'm going with this. In today's day and age, technological advances might give us an out by providing an elevator. But are you going to spend the time to find it or would you just suck it up and take the stairs? In today's episode, I will use this analogy to help you shift your perspective to understand that those things that may seem to impede your progress aren't there to stop you, but to make you stronger. And once you've got this perspective available to you, you'll start to see opportunities for growth all around you. -- SHOW NOTES/LINKS: Join The Forge! (Application) IGNITEd Podcast Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ignitedff/message

I'm an inquisitive person by nature. I ask a lot of questions. The more knowledge I have, the more I can make an informed decision.  My curious nature has led me down the path of becoming a coach. I've obtained certifications in personal training, nutrition, peer support, and last year I obtained my master health coach certification which incorporates all of that, but also incorporates aspects of sleep, stress, and recovery. I'm not telling you this to brag about myself. I'm telling you this to let you know that even though I've collected all of that knowledge and can apply it to my daily life, I STILL have coaches in my life. Why do I think it's important for me to have a coach in my life? I'm glad you asked! In today's episode, I will share with you how having a coach in my life has benefited me, how it can benefit you, and I will give you 7 reasons to back up my claims! -- SHOW NOTES/LINKS: Join The Forge! (Application) IGNITEd Podcast Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) VIDEOS: Want to get great at something? Get a coach | Atul Gawande --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ignitedff/message

200 EPISODES!!! If you would've told me 10 years ago that I'd be writing, producing, and publishing my own podcast, I'd tell you that you were crazy. Telling me that I'd get to 200 episodes would be even further from what I thought I could do! Not only did I not have the confidence in what I had to say having any value, but I didn't have the technical know-how either. But oftentimes when we feel called to something and we don't know how to do it or have fully confident feelings about it, we take steps toward that thing and the path becomes clearer along the way. In today's episode, looking back on 200 episodes, I will share some of my favorite episodes with you, some lessons I've learned along the way, as well as what things will look like moving forward! -- Join The Forge! (Application) IGNITEd Podcast Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ignitedff/message

If we don't have things to anchor us to who we want to be, then we won't be able to achieve the goals we have for ourselves and our futures. We can anchor ourselves to our principles, our procedures, our attitudes, anything and everything that makes us who we are. I know you may be thinking, “how is an anchor, something that holds you down, going to help you get to where you want to be?”  In today's episode, I will answer that question and provide you some strategies for anchoring yourself in order to accomplish those lofty goals you've been keeping in your back pocket. -- SHOW NOTES/LINKS: Join The Forge! (Application) IGNITEd Podcast Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) ARTICLES/TOOLS: FREE Personal Values Assessment VIDEOS: Build your Life with your Values | Simon Sinek | TED 2015 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ignitedff/message

The most valuable commodity that we have on this planet is our TIME. What we DO with that time determines our experience while we are alive on this earth. If you aren't consciously managing or utilizing your time in purposeful ways, then you aren't taking advantage of the God-given gift you've been given and will ultimately find out that you've wasted that gift. In today's episode, I will talk about what we can do to make sure our time counts and moves us toward becoming the person that we want to be. -- Join The Forge! (Application) IGNITEd Podcast Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ignitedff/message

If you aren't growing, you're dying. You've heard me say this before, but I thought that as we come to the end of 2023, I just reiterate my point because as you all know; with a new year comes a new quarter and a new cohort to my coaching group The Forge. The concept of having a growth mindset versus a fixed mindset is what separates the DO-ers from the dregs.  In today's episode, I will reinforce the importance of what a growth mindset is, why harboring a growth mindset will propel you toward success, and some things that we can do every day to make sure we are staying on track. -- Join The Forge! (Application) IGNITEd Podcast Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ignitedff/message

As we go throughout our lives, we will find ourselves in situations where we are in direct competition with others. Sometimes competition presents itself through a game of pickleball and sometimes it presents as testing for a promotion at work. Regardless of how the element of competition shows up in our lives, it's important to remember that just because we have an opponent, does not mean they are our enemy. In today's episode, I will dive further into this idea and provide some perspective on how we can maintain a growth mindset while still aggressively competing for victory. -- Join The Forge! (Application) IGNITEd Firefighter Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ignitedff/message

You've heard me talk a lot about several different Japanese cultural concepts throughout my podcast. The reason for that is that I feel like Japanese culture is very conscientious and purposeful. From “Kaizen”, the practice of continual improvement, to “Ikigai”, the concept that everyone has a purpose and a reason for living and it is our responsibility to find out what that is, and dedicate our lives to it, I am continually  enthralled by Japanese culture. I recently learned of a concept called “Naikan” and this is a self-reflective practice that can not only help us to become more self-aware, but grateful, and conscious in our effort to contribute to the well-being of others. In today's episode, I will dive deeper into the concept of Naikan, share with you what its three elements are, and provide you with strategies for implementing its practice into your daily life. -- Join The Forge! (Application) IGNITEd Firefighter Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) Naikan Therapy: Applying the Japanese Art of Self-Reflection (Positive Psychology) What is Naikan Therapy (Mental Health Match) Naikan - Reconnection to ourselves | Johanna Schuh | TEDxLinz (YouTube) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ignitedff/message

With staffing at an all-time low among fire departments and other organizations across the continent, strategies for recruitment and retention have gained the spotlight. It seems organizations are more interested in scooping the proverbial water out of the boat rather than stopping the leak; and even then, some people are choosing to ignore the problem. What those people don't realize is that they are sitting in the same boat. One of the ways we can address this issue that's becoming more prominent is to assess our cultures. I will speak to the fire service culture specifically, but ultimately, the principles can be applied to a multitude of different organization structures. In today's episode, I will talk about what we can do when it comes to having an effect on our culture that can have a huge impact on recruitment and retention. -- Join The Forge! (Application) IGNITEd Firefighter Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ignitedff/message

You've heard me say it again and again, if you want to accomplish something big, break up the task into smaller sections. By doing this, we can take small but effective steps toward the bigger goals we have established for ourselves (or the goals that our organizations and leaders have established for us). I show people how to do this inside my coaching group, The Forge, through a framework of planning quarterly goals as well as daily primary tactics they can accomplish in order to achieve amazing things. In today's episode, I will show you how this practice can be applied to our daily lives to make those large tasks seem smaller and much more manageable! -- Join The Forge! (Application) IGNITEd Firefighter Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ignitedff/message

When we apply for a job, we typically do some investigating as to what the job entails. A great way to learn about the details of the job is by reading the “job description”. A job description informs you of all the tasks and roles that you would be responsible for if hired for the job. From there, you can decide if that's something that sounds good to you or if you should look for something else that's a better fit. But what about the roles we inherently have currently in our lives? Are we clear on what it is that we are supposed to do as well as the things we are responsible for? In today's episode, I will challenge you to write your own “job description”, not just for your career but for several categories of your life. I will encourage you to be proactive in this process and I will provide you with a step-by-step plan to make it happen so you can be clear on what others expect of you as well as what you can expect from yourself. -- Join The Forge! (Application) IGNITEd Firefighter Facebook Group Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ignitedff/message

“Life is not primarily a quest for pleasure, as Freud believed, or a quest for power, as Alfred Adler taught, but a quest for meaning.” - Viktor Frankl One of my all-time favorite books is Viktor Frankl's book “Man's Search for Meaning”, but something recently stuck out to me in that title; the word “search”. Then it got me thinking, “why spend so much time searching for meaning when we can create it ourselves?” Meaning can come in many different forms. With how diverse we are as humans, there are an equal amount of diverse ways we find meaning. But, how do we create it? In today's episode, I will talk about a practice called “constructivism” and how we can be an active part in our own quest for meaning by creating it ourselves. -- SHOW NOTES/LINKS: Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) IGNITEd Firefighter Facebook Group Join The Forge! (Application) ARTICLES/TOOLS: What is Meaning? And How to Create a More Meaningful Life (Psychology Today) Are You Feeling Lost? Here's How To Find Meaning In Your Life (BetterUp) VIDEOS: How Should We Define Meaning? (YouTube) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ignitedff/message

Communication is HUGE. Not just the fire service, but the world. Almost everything we do is to improve our ability to communicate with others through language or technology. Even as I sit here and record this podcast from a small town in Arizona, I'm reaching people all over the world and I make an active and conscientious effort to be clear in what I'm saying. Understanding whether someone is of a high-context culture or a low-context culture can really help in bridging the gap of what it is you're trying to communicate and what is actually received.  In today's episode, I will talk about the spectrum of high-context and low-context, how to recognize it in the real world, and how to make sure that you can be aware of this so you can understand where people are coming from. Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) IGNITEd Firefighter Facebook Group Join The Forge! (Application) ARTICLES/TOOLS: High-Context Culture: 4 Characteristics of High-Context Cultures by MasterClass The Culture Map by Erin Meyer (Book) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ignitedff/message

You've heard me talk about how we should be focused on becoming assets and purge anything that makes us a liability. This is an active and ongoing process. Active building of yourself only happens with conscious effort and planning. It doesn't happen by accident. In today's episode, I will talk about how we can actively focus on becoming assets, what that actively looks like, and a huge pitfall we should avoid. -- Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) IGNITEd Firefighter Facebook Group Join The Forge! (Application) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ignitedff/message

We all have an idea of what we think “perfection” looks like in our minds, but our path to that so-called perfection can be exhausting. This is only compounded when we compare ourselves, our work, and our progress to other people.  Accepting that someone will always be better than you at something helps you maintain humility, but also accept that achieving perfection isn't a final destination, it's an active and daily process. When it comes to closing the gap between who we are and who we want to be, the steps we take in making progress toward that goal are measurable. In today's episode, I will talk about how we can reframe our mindset to focus and hold more value with progress. I will provide you with structures for success, and I will show you how you can take that first step. -- Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) IGNITEd Firefighter Facebook Group Join The Forge! (Application) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ignitedff/message

We all know how it feels to be not listened to. Whether people are half-listening, continually interrupting, or aren't paying attention to you at all, we know how that feels. And it doesn't feel good.  But is it our job to force people to listen to us or is it our job to show people what it looks like to be a good listener? The answer to that question lies in the understanding that we cannot control others, only ourselves. In today's episode  I will let you in on a phrase that I use in my personal and professional life that has helped me build strong relationships that have depth and meaning and I will share some strategies for becoming a better listener. -- Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) IGNITEd Firefighter Facebook Group Join The Forge! (Application) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ignitedff/message

Oftentimes we spend so much time overcomplicating things that we wind up never taking steps toward accomplishing the things we want to accomplish. Some people call this “paralysis by analysis”. Allowing the complexity of a situation to overwhelm us can stop us in our tracks when we're trying to set goals and take steps to achieve them.  In today's episode, I will talk about how complexity is the enemy of execution and share some strategies that we can do to remove complexity so we can move forward and crush it in life! -- Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) IGNITEd Firefighter Facebook Group Join The Forge! (Application) --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ignitedff/message

Regardless of what you do in life, whatever you've touched is a signature of your standard. What I mean by that is your involvement is a reflection of your principles, attitude, and the quality of work you're putting into this world. Whether you're impacting things on a global scale or focused on making an impact in your community, how you're showing up is an outward reflection of your inner principles; or your standard. In today's episode, I will talk about why this idea is so important, how we can keep it at the forefront of our minds, and how living this principle builds trust. -- ⁠Join The Forge! (Application)⁠ Buy my book! Own It!: Build a Fire Service Culture of Trust and Integrity Through Accountability (Book) IGNITEd Firefighter Facebook Group --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/ignitedff/message