Multiple Calls Podcast

THE GROWTH EXPERIENCE was born of a deep need among men for a deeper sense of connection, meaning and presence in an increasingly chaotic and lonely world. ​ Many of the social, tribal and cultural institutions that used to support men have lost relevance and meaning in the digital age, yet healthy spaces for men to connect are needed more than ever. THE GROWTH EXPERIENCE empowers men and creates community through shared experiences that allow men to push beyond their boundaries and gain new skills and brotherhood to support their physical, mental, emotional and spiritual growth. @thegrowthexperiencecollective @thegrowthexperience_ryan @thegrowthexperience_matt @thegrowthexperience_nathan Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileygreenfitness Partnership: @firefighternationhq Mid-roll Sponsor: @fhtribune

Marcos Orozco was born and raised in Texas and became passionate about fitness at the age of 12 when his Dad bought him his first gym membership.  He played sports throughout high school and ran track for ASU (400m and 4x400m relay) where he got a Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science/Kinesiology.   Marcos has been a career fireman for 17 years and has been training and working out in gear for about 15 + of those years.   His passion for fitness as it relates to performance on the fire ground is what he is passionate about and what he is best known for.  He has spent the past decade plus training “tactical athletes” and helping them become the best version of themselves, making them an asset rather than a liability.   Marcos is the owner of Hardknox Sunday where he has programs designed to help firefighters improve their fitness as it relates to performance on the fire ground.  He is a big believer in “you are either an asset or a liability, there is no in between.” Marcos is co-founder of The Crucible with John Spera and Logan Broberg.  The Crucible is a 24hr class where the participants will do 12 in full-gear workouts over that 24hr period where a standard must be met under the required time frame.  This class is meant to help build that mental fortitude and resiliency, and to share with the participants what has worked for us, the cadre.  We will be focusing on building the participants up and helping them work through those dark moments.  In addition, The cadre will be doing the workouts with the participants, and embracing the shared suffering.   Marcos is also co-owner of True Grit Training, where they provide realistic “live fire” trainings as well as RIT and Search and Rescue classes in the Denver metropolitan area.     Marcos has been an instructor for over 11 years and travels all over the country teaching HOT classes and giving his lecture “Improving fire ground performance through fitness and mental fortitude” as well as being on several podcasts in the last couple of years. @hardknoxsunday Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileygreenfitness Partnership: @firefighternationhq Mid-roll Sponsor - @firehumorcompany Some of his fire conferences include:     Ft Lauderdale Fire Expo (Ft Lauderdale, FL) Fire Shows West (Reno, NV) FDIC (Indianapolis, IN) The Castillo Way, (Houston, TX) Mile High Fire Conference (Denver, CO) Mid America Fools OKC Conference (OKC, OK).   Some of his podcasts include:   Behind The Shield Podcast Tailboard Misfits Podcast Fit to Fight Fire Podcast Student of the Game Podcast Undisclosed Agents Podcast The Sheepdog Society Podcast   Some of his “HARD” accomplishes include completing the Dunes 100-mile Ultra Race (2019-FL), completing the Georgia Smoke Diver Program at age 45 (2022-GA), running Pikes Peak Ascent (13.3 miles up to 14,115ft of elevation) in bunker coat/pants (2023-CO), and completing OBT 6 (2024-FL). Challenging himself and others is what Marcos is passionate about, and he enjoys showing others what is possible. Marcos moved from South Florida to Colorado in January of 2023 and has been working for Brighton Fire District where he was in the Training Division for all of 2024 teaching at The North Area Fire Academy (NAFA 14 & 15), sharing his knowledge and passion. Marcos believes you must do HARD things you do not want to do daily; you are only as good as what you are currently doing, and what are you currently doing to make people around you better.   “It is our responsibility to show them what is possible.”

Andrew Pristach is a 14 year firefighter, currently a Sergeant on a heavy rescue with the City of Spartanburg Fire Department in Upstate South Carolina. He is an instructor with the Mississippi State Fire Academy, a founding member of Dixie Firemanship, the owner of Tradesman Fire & Fabrication, and the co-designer of the Council Tool TD30 halligan bar and FE6 and FE8 axes. @andrew.tff @tradesman_fire @dixiefiremanship Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileygreenfitness Partnership: @firefighternationhq

Nick Ledin is a Captain with Eau Claire (WI) Fire Department, currently assigned to Truck 8. Ledin has been a student of the job for 18 years and is a contributor to ‘Firefighter Rescue Survey', was the former president of the Northland FOOLS, and is a board member of FireNuggets. He's a technical committee member for NFPA 1700, was a former technical panel member for UL FSRI's PPA/PPV Study, and is a co-host of the FireNuggets Podcast and GRABS Podcast. Nick is also lucky enough to be a small part of UL FSRI's Public Education Advisory Committee. He can also grow a pretty legit ‘stache. @nick.ledin @ulfsri @firenuggets @firefighterrescuesurvey @northlandfools Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileygreenfitness Partnership: @firefighternationhq

Darren was born and raised in a small town in Saskatchewan. With 25 years of experience in the fire service, he has taught and mentored at various level, always striving to pass on his knowledge and passion for the job. For the Past 16 years, Darren has been a proud member of Oakville Fire. He began as a training Officer, where he helped shape the next generation of firefighters through recruit training, firefighter survival programs, and the development and delivery of technical rescue disciplines. Now serving in Operations, Darren continues to protect the community of Oakville with the same drive and heart that brought him to the service all those years ago. Darrens love for teaching and mentoring lives on beyond his department. He is an instructor at the South West Fire Academy, where he works hands-on with firefighter boot camps and technical rescue training, and he also teaches technical rescue for the Ontario Fire Marshel's Office. His mission is simple to give back to the job he loves by preparing others to thrive in it. Before joining Oakville Fire, Darren spent 18 years in the Canadian Armed Forces first 9 years with the Princess Patrica Canadian Light Infantry (P.P.C.L.I.) and 9 years as a military Firefighter. It was during this time that he discovered his passion for the fire service. Fitness and performance have always been central to Darren's dedication. He has proudly represented both the military and Oakville Fire in the Firefighter Combat Challenge, becoming a Muti-time national and world champion. For Darren, its not just about competition, its about pushing limits, leading by example, and showing what's possible when passion meets purpose. Outside of work, Darren enjoys spending time with his wife and two beautiful daughters. He is an avid outdoorsman who loves hunting, fishing, and camping, and he keeps active playing hockey in his spare time. Whether he's on a call, in the classroom, or out in the woods, Darren lives everyday with heart, grit, and gratitude for the career that has given him so much, and for the opportunity to keep paying it forward. @dvanzandbergen Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileygreenfitness Partnership: @firefighternationhq

Born and raised in El Paso Texas, Bobby Reichardt began his fire service journey at West Valley Volunteer Fire Department at the age of 17 and left 14 years later at the rank of Captain. He currently serves as a Logistics Lieutenant with the El Paso Fire Department and is a licensed Paramedic. He holds a Masters degree in Public Safety Administration and Leadership from ASU, a Bachelors of Emergency Management from West Texas A&M University, and is pursuing his Doctorate in Organizational Leadership. Bobby is married and the father of two daughters. Being the best husband and father are at the top of his to-do list, followed closely by leaving the fire department better than he found it. He's the founding President of ChucoTown FOOLS. @chuco_town_f.o.o.l.s. Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileyfirefit Partnership: @firefighternationhq

Josh Graham is a second-generation career firefighter with over a decade of experience in a large, fast-growing urban fire department in the Greater Toronto Area. In addition to his firefighting career, he has more than ten years of paramedic experience, having worked in both urban and rural settings. Josh spent two years in the Training Division as the Technical Rescue lead, where he developed programs across multiple disciplines to support his department's transition toward mandated certification. His programs focus on NFPA standards while ensuring crews are equipped with the necessary skills, training, and experience to operate effectively. He has also played a key role as a Lead Instructor in several Recruit Academies. In late 2023, Josh returned to the Operations Division and is currently assigned to a station housing both an Engine and a Technical Rescue apparatus. He continues to contribute to the Training Division as an Acting Training Officer and serves as a Lead Instructor for Rope and Water Rescue, Engine Operations, Search and Rescue, and Firefighter Survival. A firm believer in the historic culture of the fire service, Josh values camaraderie, craftsmanship, and the traditions that define the profession. While modern shifts emphasize safety culture and individualism, he believes that the strength of the fire service lies in its shared commitment to training, continual skill development, and the mentorship of future generations. His passion for the job is fueled by the enthusiastic passing of knowledge, experience, and tradition. Outside of work, Josh enjoys spending time with his wife and two children, as well as hunting, fishing, camping, mountain biking, and practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Josh curates a firefighting-focused Instagram page dedicated to sharing relevant training content and fire service culture. His goal is to showcase the confidence and effectiveness of aggressive firefighting, often misunderstood as reckless or dangerous—while highlighting its critical value in saving lives and property. @dumpdawg_jr Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileyfirefit Partnership: @firefighternationhq

Rob Thibert is an 18-year member of the Fire Service. Rob is the Deputy Fire Chief with the Minden Hills Fire Department in Ontario, Canada. Rob's leadership style is to lead from the front, aggressively progressing the department's tactics and succession all while keeping the safety of his crew in mind and always striving to leave the job better than he found it. Rob is a legacy firefighter following in his Father's footsteps. During his down time, he loves spending time with my three sons and two dogs, being outdoors. He has instructed at Lambton College Fire School in the Pre-Service and Fire Science programs. He is the Treasurer and one of the co-founders of True North FOOLS. Rob is a student of the Fire Service and is passionate about sharing his love for the trade by passing on what has worked and what has been passed on to him. Rob founded the Smoke is Showing Conference, which builds a strong Fire Department culture through training, brotherhood, and traditions. @mfd_deputychief @truenorthfools Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileyfirefit Partnership: @firefighternationhq

Joey is 34 years old and a happily married father of two young boys. After 10 years in the fire service, I was diagnosed with PTSD. My symptoms included panic attacks, disassociation, suicidal ideations, sleep issues, anxiety and depression. As I began my treatment, I found it lacking as the conventional treatment was aimed at giving pharmaceuticals to help my symptoms while failing to address the nervous system and the body. This approach placed me in a victim mindset and has been ineffective for me. After trying the conventional approach, I started to experiment with things outside the mainstream. Ice baths, saunas, breath work, meditation, journaling, TRE, float tanks, EMDR, neurofeedback, plant medicines and many other non-conventional approaches ended up being what gave me relief and allowed me to pull myself out of despair. Fast forward 3 years from my initial treatment and I am now working to give people skills before pills. Through Conscious Movements, participates are introduced to the language of body and taught how to use their breath and movement to regulate themselves. Conscious Movements works on a physical, mental, emotional, and energetic level and encourages the practitioner to tune into the body and allow the mind to settle back. Through conscious attention, breath and movement we are able to connect to deeper parts of ourselves and encourage healing in a way conventional medicine doesn't offer. Learning the skill of self-regulation allows you to be the best version of yourself, whether that's a friend, parent, partner, boss, employee, athlete, or student. @conscious_movements Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileyfirefit Partnership: @firefighternationhq

To celebrate, the team comes together to talk all things MCP. Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileyfirefit Partnered with: @firefighternationhq

Gareth Lockhart is a career Firefighter and Acting Officer with over 14 years of experience in a medium-sized suburban department outside Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Gareth is best known for being a leader in driving successful lobbying of staffing, health & safety issues through political action as a union executive board member. He presents on cognitive priming and deliberate practice to instill foundational skills in firefighters. His passions lie in Operations and Training, ensuring all firefighters can access modern, aggressive strategies and tactics through inclusive, data-driven methodologies, supported by those who actively participate and demonstrate the skills they teach. The battle against complacency starts with a “we” not “me” ethos. @lockhart63 Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileyfirefit Partnered with: @firefighternationhq

Stephanie White is a 21-year veteran of the fire service. She started her journey as a volunteer and has been a career firefighter/paramedic in Virginia for the past 19 years. Over her career she's been actively involved in firefighter health and wellness while being assigned to some pretty great companies. She is currently enjoying the challenge that is spelling and writing while living the shift-work life. Stephanie is the managing editor of Firefighter Nation. @thatpaperworkff @thefiveaftermidnightpodcast @firefighternationhq Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileyfirefit

Kyle Beaumont is a senior firefighter with 20 years of fire service experience. Kyle currently serves with the Oak Bay Fire Department in Victoria, BC, Canada as an acting Lieutenant and acting assistant Chief. With a strong passion for the fire service and a formal education in Organizational Leadership from Royal Roads University, Kyle recognizes the integral connection between effective training and department culture. Kyle is an instructor for Prepare 4 Rescue Ltd., a department IAFF Fireground Survival Instructor, and actively contributes to the development of training programs within his department. Drawing from personal experience and observation, he firmly believes that tackling challenging physical tasks is essential for fostering both individual and team resilience. Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileyfirefit

Manny Barajas has been with San Antonio Fire for the last 8 years. He's a Marine Combat Veteran and proud San Antonio Southsider. After 7 years on the front lines, he was promoted and is now in the EMS division. @manny_b210 @andyfredericksghost Manuelbarajas210@gmail.com Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileyfirefit

Dave “Chops Phillips” is a retired EMS (Ornge) Helicopter Pilot, whose life took an unexpected turn in 2015 when he confronted the challenging reality of PTSD, a battle that many first responders face. He is currently an advocate for mental health awareness, with his company Code33 Apparel. Code33 Apparel is not just about fashion, but about making a difference. Every purchase supports PTSD and mental health awareness initiatives. www.code33apparel.com @thecode33apparel @theschops Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileyfirefit

Narration of the article published online at Firefighter Nation https://www.firefighternation.com/health-wellness/firefighter-mental-health/the-connected-warrior-tough-plus-love/ Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy  Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileyfirefit

Kevin Pfluger is a 18 year veteran of the fire service and is currently a Lieutenant at the Live Oak (TX) fire department. He is the President of the Live Oak Professional Firefighters Association Local 4098.  Through the local, Kevin is the lead organizer of the Dagum Texas Fire Conference. He teaches as the lead instructor for THE DAGUM PUSH engine ops cadre, helps teach firefighter rescue and survival skills on the “No Quit RIT” Cadre, teaches with the Bearers of the Oath Cadre out of Georgia and teaches with the Ambassadors of The Craft Cadre on the West Coast.  Kevin works for Mercedes Textiles Hose as a Consultant and is on the UL 19 Technical Committee for 0219-Fire Hose.  @kevin_pfluger_ Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy  Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileyfirefi

Sean is a devoted husband to his best friend Colleen and a proud father of Lochlan and Ireland. He is a lifelong student in the fire service with 1 volunteer and 24 career.  He completed the Seneca College Fire Protection Technologist Program and is a lead instructor in many disciplines favouring Building Construction, Auto Extrication, and Fire Behaviour. He is pushing to learn something new every day. Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy  Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileyfirefit

Captain Rob Ramirez was born and raised in Miami, Florida. He has been a passionate student of the Fire Service for over 22 years and holds degrees in Fire Science and Public Administration. Rob is a state-certified Fire Instructor II, Fire Officer II, Safety Officer, and Live Fire Training Instructor. Since 2005, he has served as a Rescue Team Manager for the Department of Homeland Security F.E.M.A. U.S.A.R.Florida Task Force out of Miami, FL. He has deployed on many national and international high-profile USAR missions, including the Haiti earthquake in 2010 and major Hurricanes Katrina, Harvey, Florence,Michael, and Ian. Rob is the founder and Lead Instructor of Mayday Mindset Consulting LLC. Rob is also the lead instructor for the Firefighter Rescue programs at the Ft. Lauderdale Fire Expo Conference and travels nationally and internationally as a guest instructor, speaker, and keynote at various Fire Conferences throughout the year. During his Fire Service career, Rob has held the ranks of Fireman, Paramedic, Lieutenant, Dept. Training Officer, and Fire Captain. He is currently assigned to a busy Truck Company in Broward County, South Florida. robramirez@maydaymindset.com @robramirez1075_official Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy  Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileyfirefit

Mickey Farrell is a Lieutenant in the New York City Fire Department, a third-generation firefighter with 29 years of experience, the last 23 years being with the FDNY. Also a team instructor at the New York City Fire Academy, founder and author of Top Floor Tactics, and host of ‘A View From the Top Floor Podcast'. topfloortactics.com @topfloortactics @national_fire _radio youtube.com/@NationalFireRadio Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy  Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileyfirefit

Suh Hughart, EMT-P, FcEHS got into EMS in 2010. She has experience working in private, hospital-based, and 911 ambulance services. She has been working for San Marcos Hays County EMS since 2011 where she works as a field paramedic and EMS educator. A paramedic of over 10 years, she is a recipient of the Dr. Larry Miller Fellowship with the Centre for Emergency Health Sciences. Suh is a part of the Central Texas Coalition Against Human Trafficking and is an EMS Instructor for the Kyle Fire Department. She has spoken at state and national EMS conferences on the topic of human trafficking; including at FDIC International. Suh is a published author and content reviewer. stronghartstrategies@gmail.com @suzyq384 Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileyfirefit

Episode 89 with Andy Starnes is now available! Andy Starnes is a lifelong student of the fire service and has been involved with the fire service as a volunteer since 1992 and as a career firefighter since 1998. He is a fire service website contributor on thermal imaging, fire behavior, leadership, behavioral health, and faith-based devotions. He is passionate about fire behavior and regularly assists in instructing others on the complex terminology of modern fire behavior. He serves as a board member on the non-profit organization 5-Alarm Task Force which raises funds to support first responders, is a Master Craftsman with Project Kill the Flashover, and supports numerous first responder charities through Insight Training He has been featured on numerous podcasts and presented tactical thermal imaging courses at fire service conferences across the globe. His work has been featured in fire service publications, Euro Firefighter 2, and other fire service textbooks. He has trained and/or assisted departments with Thermal Imaging Training in all 50 states and numerous other countries. Insight Training's Thermal Imaging Curriculum is in use in Canada as an integral part of their 'From Knowledge to Practice Fire Dynamics Program'. Insight Training LLC instructor cadre are fire service veterans and are Level 1 Thermography Industrial Certified from Infrared Training Center. Andy currently serves as a Battalion Chief in a large career department in NC, is Level II Thermography Certified, and provides training internationally. He consults manufacturers and assists with product development. Insight Training LLC developed the first thermography-based firefighter certification credentialed through the Infrared Training Center. www.insighttrainingllc.com andystarnes@instructorandystarnes.com IG @insighttrnllc IG @andrew.starnes.733 FB @andrewstarnes FB @insightfiretraining Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy  Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileyfirefit

Adam Maiers is a person like you who loves the fire service. A person who finds comfort in learning, growth, failure, and the nuance of the little things in training and life. He truly believes in service before self, a family man blessed in his life and circle. In his words, he has been in the fire service for a few years for a few departments in a few states. He is also a huge fan of all his Engine Zero Homies. Keep Grinding! @amaiers @enginezeroactual Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy  Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileyfirefit

Ryan is a 17-year firefighter/paramedic with the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic Service. He is a sudden cardiac arrest survivor and the first operational firefighter in the world with an internal defibrillator. @ryanhill19 Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileyfirefit

Eric Wheaton is the Owner of VentEnterSearch, LLC. He is a second-generation fireman for Winter Park (FL) Fire Department and is currently assigned as a Lieutenant on Truck 61. Eric has spent the majority of his career on the Truck Company. He also serves on the Winter Park Fire Department Technical Rescue Team. Eric is an instructor for the Truck Company Operations and Special Operations programs at Valencia College's Central Florida Fire Institute. He holds an associate degree in Fire Science and is an advisory board member on the UL-FSRI Size-up and search & rescue study. Eric has taught at many fire conferences across the country, including FDIC, Portland Firemanship Conference, Orlando Fire Conference, Fort Lauderdale Fire Expo, Metro Atlanta Firefighter Conference, and Water on the Fire Conference @ericwheaton.61 www.vententersearch.com Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileyfirefit

Nathan Pocock is a husband and father of two. He has been an avid Firefighter since 2008, currently holding the first paid chief position with East Sooke Fire Rescue where he started his career. He has spent 10 years in Vancouver Fire, and 5 years with Canada Task Force 1 HUSA. He has been running Prepare4Rescue since 2015 with a solid group of friends and firefighters across BC to help spread the love, passion, and skills. @ff.pocock @prepare4_rescue_ Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy  Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileyfirefit

Lexis is a full-time firefighter, part-time nurse, and national-level Olympic weightlifter.  She loves maintaining a diverse skill set and learning new things.  Firefighting brings together all the facets of life she is most passionate about; learning, fitness, challenges, and constantly varied tasks.  She hopes to inspire women to challenge female social norms and chase their dreams no matter how challenging they seem. @lextra9  Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy  Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileyfirefit

Corley Moore is a motivational speaker and instructor, specializing in the topics of leadership and culture.  Author of the books “The 9L's”, “Challenge Your Leadership” and “Broken Tools”.  He is the founder of Firehouse Vigilance and its "Never Ending Fight Against Complacency", the creator of the Vigilant Creed with members in all fifty states and seven countries, and the host of The Weekly Scrap, a podcast where fire service leaders come on to discuss improving the culture of the modern fire service. He has served in the Moore Fire Department of Oklahoma since 1997, and currently holds the rank of Battalion Chief in charge of the Green Shift; a motley collection of badasses that make him look good every day. @firehousevigilance @smoothborecartel Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy  Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileyfirefit

Bobby Eckert is a Captain with the City of Camden Fire Department in New Jersey.  He is a second-generation Fireman and has been in the fire service for over 20 years, with the last 13 in Camden.  His present assignment is with Engine Company 1 at Fire Headquarters – the city's busiest Engine Company. Bobby has a BS in Public Safety Administration from Neumann University and is also a Pro Board Level 2 instructor.  Captain Eckert has taught all over the country and authored Volumes 1 and 2 of Tuesdays are for Tactics – covering fire tactics, leadership, and an aggressive street-smart approach to firefighting, based solely on his experience. https://www.eckertfiretactics.com/ @eckert_335 Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy  Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileyfirefit

Ray McCormack retired as a Lieutenant after 39 years in the FDNY. He holds a BA from the New York Institute of Technology. He was the lead author for FDNYs new Engine Company Operations Manual. He developed and taught Back to Basics Standpipe for all FDNY firefighters.  He was the co-founder and editor of Urban Firefighter magazine, and he delivered the FDIC keynote “True Values of a Firefighter” in 2009.  He sits on the FDIC advisory board and FireEngineering editorial board. He was a panel member for two consecutive Underwriters Laboratories (UL) studies. Impact of Fire Attack Utilizing Interior & Exterior Streams on Firefighter Safety and Occupant Survival Study and Study of Coordinated Fire Attack Utilizing Acquired Structures. He lectures on Engine and Ladder Company Operations, Leadership and Extinguishment Culture. @ltraymack @mccormack_ray @hen_nozzles @fdny @fdny_ufa @ulfsri @fireengineering @elkhartbrass Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy  Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @m.pletz Administration: @haileyfirefit

David Brooks is a tailboard firefighter for the Austin (TX) Fire Department. David is currently assigned to Firehouse 14 in the Special Operations Division where he rides both Engine 14 and Rescue 14. He began is professional career in 2013 at the age of 19. He has a passion for family, firemanship, and helping those who have found rock bottom. @brooksleatherco Photo Credit: @code3_sd Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy  Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @premiummixmarketingco Administration: @haileyfirefit

Jake is a third-generation Firefighter in his family, who grew up terrorizing the on-duty crews in the firehouse. He is currently a paid on-call Captain in Southern Georgian Bay and a career Fireman in the GTA, presently assigned to a tech rescue company. Jake brings a blue-collar firemanship attitude to work every day having worked as a welder in high-voltage electrical transmission stations. @jake_watson16 Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy  Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @premiummixmarketingco Administration: @haileyfirefit

Stephanie White is a 20-year veteran of the fire service and has spent the past 18 years as a professional firefighter/paramedic assigned to the field in a metropolitan fire department. Stephanie is a podcaster and contributing writer with Fire Engineering. She hates having to write bios about herself and prefers to spend her free time helping departments write policies that focus on pregnancy or cannabis in the fire service.  @thefiveaftermidnightpodcast @thatpaperworkff Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy  Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @premiummixmarketingco Administration: @haileyfirefit

Kyle is a 20-year veteran with East Montgomery County Fire Department, oversees the training division as a Battalion Chief, and is in love with engine work. Kyle is the owner of smoothbore cartel and founder and administrator of Engine Company Resurrection. Kyle teaches engine operations for several well-known fire service instructor groups such as FD Tactics, Brothers in Battle, and Oathkeepers Engine Cadre. His primary objective is to share knowledge about the value of Engine work with his fellow firefighters. He travels the country providing lectures and hands-on training on engine company skills and provides one of the most compelling lectures on fire attack in the industry. His organization provides sponsorship opportunities for firefighters to attend conferences around the country. His efforts are well-known, and respected, and his instructional methodology is second to none. @smoothborecartel @firehousevigilance @countyfiretactics Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy  Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @premiummixmarketingco Administration: @haileyfirefit

Chris is a Captain with the Niagara Falls Fire Department and is a passionate advocate for first responder mental health, with a unique perspective from the front lines of emergency response. Chris sheds light on what it's like for a firefighter to navigate the complexities of mental health issues and the associated stigmas and often arduous journey of recovery. He's triumphed over addiction, celebrating 13 years of sobriety. Chris channels his own experiences into a mission of helping others by openly discussing his story, offering motivation, and providing encouragement to those grappling with similar challenges. Chris is more than just a survivor; he's a beacon of hope and a living testament to the transformative power of recovery. You can find his podcast Authentic Adversity on all platforms and apps. @_chris_howe_ @authenticadversity Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @premiummixmarketingco Administration: @haileyfirefit

Sachin Latti is the heart of Sachinmotion. With a growing team of supporters around him, his goal is to raise money and awareness for veterans & first responders in need of help as they heal from PTSD & mental health illnesses, as these issues have been a part of his life. Sachin comes from a Sikh community that has been in military service for hundreds of years, as well as a family with a history in the armed forces. He runs for veterans because it's in his blood. Lieutenant Gurbux Singh, Sachin's great-grandfather, served in WWI under the British Indian Army with great distinction, and his son, Sachin's great uncle, Lieutenant Colonel Bhag Singh, was awarded the Military Cross fighting in WWII. Sachin's grandfather, Bhajan Singh, served in the Punjab Police for many years, retiring at the rank of Superintendent of Police. Continuing Sachin's family's dedication to service, Bhajan Singh was awarded the President of India Meritorious Police Medal. After 18 years of law enforcement service, Sachin came to the realization that he'd experienced situations that he didn't know how to cope with mentally. Now, as he learns how to deal with his own mental health, he wants to honour the memories of his forefathers and those that paved the way for him and advocate for those that have been in similar situations. Sachin recently completed 22 marathons in 22 days in British Columbia Canada in support of Honour House, a tranquil retreat, a place of education and personal growth. Here, members of our Canadian Armed Forces, Veterans, Emergency Services Personnel, and their families can discover cutting-edge strategies in the treatment of operational stress injuries including anxiety, depression, and PTSD. The goal: empower these heroes so they are better equipped to navigate the often debilitating emotional and physical stresses of selfless commitment to service. @sach.in.motion https://www.sachinmotion.ca/ https://www.honourhouse.ca/ Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @premiummixmarketingco Administration: @haileyfirefit

Jesse's impressive career has been wholeheartedly dedicated to many facets of the fire service. He not only owns and operates SFA but has also been a firefighter for fifteen years. He is a career firefighter and acting captain with a suburban fire department and serves as a captain with two rural volunteer departments.  Beyond the fire-ground, Jesse is renowned for his exceptional skills as a fire instructor. He has a passion and enthusiasm that is truly infectious, and possesses an innate ability to inspire both his colleagues and aspiring firefighters. Jesse is a dedicated natural leader and a truly remarkable person, who is devoted to helping influence the future of the fire service. @jesse_james_bond https://www.southwestfireacademy.ca/ Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @premiummixmarketingco Administration: @haileyfirefit Photo credit: @gtaa911media

Jesse Coomer is one of the foremost voices in the world of breathwork today. He is a Human Performance Specialist, Breathworker, and renowned speaker in the field of Breathwork.  In 2009, he began a life transformation mission that led him to discover how our physiology and psychology often conflict with the modern world. In 2014, he became passionate about breath training as a method to combat his anxiety. Since then, he has trained in several breathwork techniques, certified as a personal trainer, become a leading author on the subjects of breathwork & cold exposure training, and a voice of practicality in the world of health and mental fitness on his YouTube Channel.    He now leads workshops, lectures, and training sessions around the USA while training athletes, CEOs, first responders, military, and people from every walk of life who seek to optimize their performance, reduce their anxiety levels, and live healthier lives. Jesse is also the founder of The Language of Breath Collective and the founder of Breathwork Tactics. https://www.jessecoomer.com/ @jessecoomerbreath https://www.languageofbreathcollective.com/ Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @premiummixmarketingco Administration: @haileyfirefit

Based in Toronto Canada, Marie Bodine facilitates powerful breath and meditation events and Wim Hof Method workshops throughout North America.  Marie's workshops along with talks about cultivating more inner peace provide audiences with lifelong skills that create confidence, improve physical and mental resilience, and deepen self respect. In addition to consulting with corporations, Marie has worked with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Emergency task Force, the Canadian Special Operations Regiment, and the Department of National Defence. @marie.bodine https://innerpeaceportal.com/ bodinemarie@gmail.com Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @premiummixmarketingco Administration: @haileyfirefit

Tyler was born and raised in the Bruce Peninsula and now lives in beautiful central-northern Ontario. Exposed to emergency services at a young age by his grandfather who was a dedicated Ontario Provincial Police officer he developed a love and devotion for helping his community. Through his years of service as a Paramedic in rural Ontario, and a decade as a volunteer firefighter, he has maintained that selfless, caring, people first mentality. Tyler continues to make strides in the emergency services profession, through leadership, professionalism, training, advocacy, and interpersonal relationships. He promotes a strong mental health foundation of resilience, and has a deep love for his young family.  Instagram: Olmy4122  Email: tjolmstead22@gmail.com Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @premiummixmarketingco Administration: @haileyfirefit

Hello Everyone, Join me on September 16th from 7 pm to 10 pm Eastern for a live session expanding on the 50 Rules for the Senior Firefighter. ‘Senior Firefighter' may not be a ranked position in most departments, but it is an integral role in every firehouse. Whether the responsibility has been placed upon you or you are hoping to step up and meet the approaching challenge, the guidance provided here will be invaluable to you and those you mentor. The cost is $30 and includes Q&A. Registration is now open at multiplecalls.squarespace.com Hope to see you there.

Chris is a 9 year veteran of the FDNY. A pitcher on the FDNY Baseball team, an athlete of the FDNY CrossFit team and part owner of IGY6 Fitness. His goal is simple, to motivate, build, push, and be a means to a fitter more well rounded first responder. @chris_igy6fitness @nyc_igy6fitness @next_rung Co-Owner IGY6 Fitness FDNY ISSA Strength and Conditioning CrossFit Level-1 & 2 CrossFit Aerobic Capacity CrossFit Anatomy CrossFit Weightlifting Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @premiummixmarketingco Administration: @haileyfirefit

Scott Heywood is a Battalion Chief and has been with the Buffalo Fire Department for 26 years. He has been married for 29 years and he and his wife have 3 grown children and 2 dogs. One of his sons has carried on the fire service tradition as a Firefighter with Memphis. @scottbfd33 Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @premiummixmarketingco Administration: @haileyfirefit

Jenny worked as an Advanced Care Tactical Paramedic for the Region of Peel. After 22 years on the job, she was diagnosed with PTSD as a result of her exposure to cumulative trauma. She has remained a strong advocate for first responder mental health and continues to openly share her personal story of post-traumatic growth and recovery. She has participated as a public speaker at various fund-raising events in an effort to continue to raise mental health awareness, encourage a shift in the current emergency services culture, and contribute towards ending the stigma associated with PTSD and OSIs in the workplace.   In 2021, she began a retraining program through the University of Guelph-Humber, where she is currently obtaining a Bachelor of Health Sciences Degree, with a focus on health, wellness, and holistic nutrition. Jenny is passionate about creating health and wellness strategies that are rooted in healthier nutrition, movement, breathwork, writing, nature, and a supportive community – and most recently, cold plunging! She is a certified Sherpa Breath & Cold Instructor.   Outside of her advocacy work and her focus on obtaining her degree, Jenny is a wife, mother, and seasoned musician. For the past 8 years, she has been working alongside her husband as the lead singer of their acoustic duo. She has also joined a new project, lending her talents as a back-up singer and percussionist in a signed Canadian band. Their record is projected to be released later this year.   Instagram: @jenni_fromthe_blok Instagram: @jennyhowesduo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jenny.howes.5/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JennyHowesMusic/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-ralph-8aa3b1235/ Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @premiummixmarketingco Administration: @haileyfirefit

Jeff's a retired JTF2 sniper (tier 1 special forces) and now focuses on sharing the science and possibilities of a forgotten theory called post-traumatic growth. He and his wife Jessica Lee Depatie are producing a documentary on PTG titled ‘Dark Night of Our Soul'. This film examines post-traumatic growth beyond the clinical setting, to ask the question: how can we make it an option for everyone? Dark Night of Our Soul explores emerging scientific breakthroughs in neuroscience and mental health, as well as ancient mythology, and the evolution of our species. It is written by Rick Alexander and directed by Luke Zachariah Montgomery. Watch the trailer and short: https://www.posttraumaticgrowth.film/ Help support the completion of the film: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/jessicadepatie/dark-night-of-our-soul-documentary @jeffdepatie_ @jessicasepatie_ @rickalexander_ @zachariah_montgomery @darknightofoursoul_ MCP Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @premiummixmarketingco Administration: @haileyfirefit

Kevin is a fire service captain and Instructor with almost 20 years on the job. In 2021, he was diagnosed with a stress injury that had been clearly accumulating for many years. He chose to explore alternative methodologies in treating his injury and has had great success. Hopefully, his story can shed light on what is becoming an increasingly recognized hazard of our profession (stress-related injuries) and some of the options firefighters have to work though them. @bigkkapitan Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @premiummixmarketingco Administration: @haileyfirefit

If you want to step into the role of the senior firefighter and not just the title, If you want to become a respectable instructor and have a lasting impact on the firehouses and fire-grounds of the future, and if you want to gain a balanced perspective of this challenging profession. Join me for this one-day class covering the 50 rules for the Senior Firefighter, the 25 rules for the Fire Service Instructor, and the Connected Warrior, in person at southwest fire academy or via live stream. 9 am to 4 pm Eastern on June 26th. I hope to see you there. Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @premiummixmarketingco Administration: @haileyfirefit

David is a Fire Captain at Santee Fire Department with 24 years of service. His passion in the fire service is training and cancer awareness. Being a survivor of work-related cancer has inspired him to make others aware of the dangers of cancer in the fire service and how to protect against it. Spending time with family is most important to David; he has been happily married for 29 years and raised two adult children. His son is now interested in pursuing a career in the fire service, and his married daughter is in the science field.  He enjoys running, hiking, kayaking, and finding new adventures to share with family and friends. @dleask_72 leaskfour@twc.com Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @premiummixmarketingco Administration: @haileyfirefit

Steve Is an outdoor enthusiast who enjoys pushing his limits and has always been drawn to the mountains and water. He is a 14-year Firefighter and student of the fire service, exploring efficiencies and tactics with a focus on aggressive professional performance, safety, and situational awareness. He instructs in fire-ground and marine operations within his department and part-time at a fire school. His goal in teaching is to grow and learn and leave students with a better understanding of the "why" behind tactics. He is also a peer support program co-lead and uses therapy, good friends, sarcasm and fitness keep him balanced. higginssd@hotmail.com @higgyp0p Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @premiummixmarketingco Administration: @haileyfirefit

We could have an endless debate over the definition of suffering and what constitutes hard. And there are a lot of vague and dismissive things that are said on the topics, such as ‘There's always someone that has it worse than you.”, ‘Look for the silver lining', ‘Everything happens for a reason', or ‘Whatever doesn't kill you, makes you stronger' but no amount of perspective on severity, or validity changes your personal reality at any given moment. You are faced with what you are faced with, you are experiencing that thing or litany of things in the way that you are, and over whatever internal or external time frame that has been imposed on you, it needs to be survived if you are going to. That's it. Just stay in it and fight to get more wins than losses over time. This is what goggins means when he tells you to ‘stay hard'. You don't have to have a great attitude about it, and the root problem or problems may not be solved, but take the steps you can towards it or through it and chalk up another time you were the type of person that acted in the face of something difficult. Show yourself that you can, remind yourself of the times you have before and then show yourself again. My guest this episode is a tremendous resource of hope and possibility in the face of adversity. Yet another powerful example of navigating difficulty as an imperfect human in a complex world. It's a pleasure to bring you Ricky Nuttall Ricky is a Firefighter with the London Fire Brigade and was one of over 250 first responders who were called to the fire at Grenfell Tower, on the 14th of June 2017. The fire tragically claimed the lives of 72 residents and injured over 70 more. He suffered from PTSD as a result of the life-changing decisions he had to make that night, as well as carrying the weight of previous traumatic incidents over a long career. With a new perspective, He's now a mental health advocate and public voice, focusing on raising awareness of the importance of social and workplace mental health and well-being. https://www.justrick.co.uk/ @rickynuttallofficial Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @premiummixmarketingco Administration: @haileyfirefit

Manny is a nozzleman with San Antonio Fire. Born, raised, and still lives and works in the city's inner west side close to his home. Engine and Nozzle work is his passion and is a true believer that the basics are where the fight is won. A Marine Corps combat veteran and first-generation college graduate. He is a proud husband and father of 3 and a field training officer with his dept. @manny_b210 @andyfredericksghost Manuelbarajas210@gmail.com Sponsorship: @southwest_fire_academy Editing: @bradshea Marketing: @premiummixmarketingco Administration: @haileyfirefit