The FireDawg Podcast

In episode 42, Matt and Chris sit down with Nick Martin, a well-known fireground training advocate and founder of Combat Ready Fire Training. They discuss the “combat ready” mentality and the importance of always being ready to perform. Nick also offers advice to departments with lower call volumes and advice for effective training drills. Head over to his site www.combatreadyfire.com to learn more about what training he and his team offer. You can also check him out on Facebook or on Instagram @nmartin33.

In this episode, Matt speaks with MSgt Roy Campos about the Air Force Fire Protection Support given on Hamid Karzai International Airport (HKIA) in Kabul Afghanistan in August 2021. Roy led the 13 person Fire Protection Quick Strike Team (QST) for 12 days in support of the Afghanistan evacuation and the largest human airlift in history. In the episode, he recounts the experience and highlights specific events during their time on HKIA. As a result of his leadership and the teams efforts, Roy received a Bronze Star Medal on March 31, 2022.

In this episode, Matt talks to former Ohio State Fire Marshal Bob Rielage. They speak about his service in Vietnam as an Air Force Intelligence Officer, fire service leadership, and transitioning from the military to civilian fire service. Chief Rielage has been a chief officer in several departments with over 30 years of experience. He is a graduate of the Kennedy School's Program for Senior Executives in State and Local Government at Harvard University. He also holds a master's degree in public administration from Norwich University and is a past president of the Institution of Fire Engineers – USA Branch. He has worked with national-level organizations, such as FEMA, the USFA, and the National Fire Academy, and has served as a committee member for NFPA 1250 and NFPA 1201. For his service to the state of Ohio, Chief Rielage received the Ohio Fire Service Distinguished Service Award in 2019.

Chris Bauchle is joined by friend Travis Bender to discuss their take on tactics for training and stress management in the department.

In this episode, Matt joins SSgt James Muncy and Mr. Robyn Torrence to highlight Travis AFB Fire Department. They discuss details about the Department, talk about services offered, highlight the local community, and much more.

In episode 39, Matt and Ben talk with our newest Career Field Manager, CMSgt Phillip Winkelmann, about career field updates on deployments, mental health initiatives, and much more. Check out www.FireDawg.us for more episodes, reviews, and content like this. Don't forget to like and follow @TheFireDawgPodcast on social media, and subscribe to the show on your favorite podcast platform.

In Episode 38, Chris and Matt talk to Chief David Rhodes, a retired Atlanta Battalion Chief, and the Chief Elder for Georgia Smoke Divers Program. Chief Rhodes answers questions on common leadership dilemmas and covers many experiences he had throughout his 30 year career.

In this new series, The FireDawg Podcast crew discusses topics on their mind in more of a free-flow discussion format. This episode is focused on timing, opportunity, and preparation.

Matt speaks with Phil Crews about the Suicide Prevention Initiative, an effort to bring awareness to, and prevent suicides in the DoD Fire Service.

Matt and Chris talk to Dr. Kenny Fent and Dr. Gavin Horn who are leading researchers in firefighter safety and health initiatives. Collectively, their research is advancing what we know about firefighter exposure to carcinogens on structural fires and the physiological demands while working in gear.

In episode 36, Matt speaks with Dr. Lance Davis and Sean Lazio, founders and leaders of The Rising Warrior, a mental health program designed to provide a holistic approach to healing, growth, and betterment of current military members, veterans, and First Responders. They are both veterans of the Army who went through their own personal struggles with mental health and, as a result, decided to design and deliver practical solutions to mental healing. In the episode, they explain the components of their program and how they can bridge the gaps in a mental healing journey.

In Episode 35, Matt and Chris speak with CMSgt Peter Webb, Command Chief for the 919th Special Operations Wing and Battalion Chief for the Dothan Fire Department. Chief Webb entered the Army Reserves as a Firefighter in 1989. In 1998, he joined the Air Force Reserves to work as a Firefighter for the 919th Special Operations Wing at Duke Field, Florida, and eventually landed an opportunity to serve as the Command Chief - a position he still holds today. He has also served as a Firefighter and is currently a Battalion Chief for the Dothan Fire Department in Alabama. He joins us today to talk about his experience in the military, his experience as a firefighter in Dothan, and shares a first-hand account of a “mayday” situation where he was the Incident Commander.

In Episode 34, Matt speaks with MSgt Maria Stivers and MSgt Cartalo Madison about their efforts as leaders within the Air Force FES Diversity and Inclusion Working Group. The group was formed in 2020 with the intent of advancing diversity and inclusion within the career field. In the episode, they elaborate on the purpose of the group, explain how survey data and feedback from the field helped to shape their initiatives, offer their thoughts on anyone who may be skeptical of the effort, and much more. Those interested in learning more are encouraged to check out their Facebook Group called “United States Air Force Fire and Emergency Services Diversity and Inclusion.”

In the final episode of the Air Force Fire Service History series, Matt joins SMSgt Dameon Moore to cover Air Force Fire Protection history from 2000 to present day. Over the past few years, Sergeant Moore has dedicated much of his time to researching and studying both Air Force Civil Engineer and Fire Protection history. His efforts were inspired by a personal drive to know our history and to make sure others within the career field know the history. The material covered in this episode and in subsequent history episodes come from a variety of sources. A condensed version of the material, as well as links to resources, are available on our website firedawg.us.

In Episode 33, Matt speaks with SMSgt Jeffrey Wyatt about his effort to create a Fire Officer Development course (aka 7-Level School) for Air Force Firefighters. Sergeant Wyatt is the Fire Protection Force Development Manager at the Air Force Civil Engineer Center (AFCEC). In that position, he has oversight of Career Development Courses (CDCs) and many other initiatives such as the Rookie Development Program. Recently, he has been working on developing a Fire Officer Development Course. In the episode, he discusses the rationale behind creating the course and what it would look like.

In this episode, Matt joins Chris Benner and Brock Lillie to highlight Kadena AB Fire Department. They discuss details about the Department, talk about services offered, highlight the local community, and much more.

In this series, Matt joins SMSgt Dameon Moore to cover Air Force Fire Protection history. The material covered in this episode and in all other history episodes comes from a variety of sources mentioned in Part 1. Most of which can be found on our website firedawg.us. Part 3 covers the 1980s through the 1990s.

In this series, Matt joins SMSgt Dameon Moore to cover Air Force Fire Protection history. The material covered today and in all other history episodes come from a variety of sources mentioned in Part 1. Most of which can be found on our website firedawg.us. Part 2 covers the 1960s through the 1970s.

In this episode, Matt joins Jacob Sullivan and Albert Cyril to highlight Cannon AFB Fire Department. They discuss details about the Department, talk about services offered, highlight the local community, and much more.

In this series, Matt joins SMSgt Dameon Moore to cover Air Force Fire Protection history. Over the past few years, Sergeant Moore has dedicated much of his time to researching and studying both Air Force Civil Engineer and Fire Protection history. His efforts were inspired by a personal drive to know our history and to make sure others within the career field know the history. The material covered in this episode and in subsequent history episodes come from a variety of sources. A condensed version of the material, as well as links to resources, are available on our website firedawg.us. Part 1 of the series will cover the inception of the Army Air Corp fire service and take us through the 1950’s.

In Episode 32, Matt talks with Bennett Grove, the founder and owner of FireDawgs Junk Removal. Bennett was an Air Force Firefighter and served a total 17 years in the DoD Fire Service. He shares details about his journey to entrepreneurship and offers advice for those interested in doing the same.

In this episode, Matt joins TSgt Tim Carroll and TSgt Kurt Matthews to highlight Peterson AFB Fire Department. They discuss details about the Department, talk about services offered, highlight the local community, and much more.

In this episode, Matt connects with Brett Tompkins, a Captain at the Nevada Test and Training Range. Brett shares his experience in finding balance with leadership, talks about his social media group, The Original Mustache Club, and shares his experience with the "75 Hard" fitness/mental challenge.

Matt talks to Gordon Graham, a 33-year veteran of law enforcement and the co-founder of a public safety consultancy organization. He is a risk management expert and a practicing attorney who has presented a commonsense risk management approach to hundreds of thousands of public safety professionals around the world. In this episode they discuss recognition-primed decision making, high-risk-low-frequency situations, the value of realistic training, and much more. This is one you won’t want to miss!

In this episode, Matt connects with Sean Sullivan, a 2019 FireFit World Champion. Sean shares his experiences with becoming a Firefighter Combat Challenge competitor and offers advice for those looking to improve their fitness or Combat Challenge time. Sean is headed to Hannover, Germany this June 2021 to compete as the only U.S. competitor in the FireFit European Championships.

In Episode 30, Bryan Weeks and Andrew Ohls join Matt to discuss the Wright-Patterson AFB Peer Support program which is dedicated to supporting emergency responders who deal with behavioral health issues as a result of their service. They serve as a bridge to community resources or behavioral health treatment when necessary. In addition to serving their Department, they also serve as Peer Support resources for other Fire Departments within the surrounding community when called upon. Bryan and Andrew share insights into the training they received, their experience with the program, and much more.

In this episode, Matt connects with Deputy Chief and retired Marine Master Gunnery Sergeant John Vanatta. Chief Vanatta offers advice for those interested in transitioning from the military to civilian fire service and also shares his experience working with Iraqi firefighters while deployed to Iraq in 2008.

In Episode 29, Tiana Bykowski & Darliska Shaw join Matt to discuss the initiatives they've embarked on to advance equal opportunity for women within the Air Force fire service. The discussion includes their efforts to get properly fitted protective ensembles, how they're connecting women within the career field, and many other initiatives driven by their newly created FES working group.

In this episode, Matt connects with Assistant Chief Marlon Smith of RAF Croughton who shares his experience in becoming an American citizen, starting his own business and taking advantage of the many other opportunities given in the military and fire service.

In this episode, Matt connects with David Webster, the Deputy Fire Chief at Cheyenne Mountain Air Force Station. David shares advice on how to be successful with military promotion and the importance of different experiences throughout his career.

Ben talks with Christian Jacobs regarding collection, use, and implications of data in the fire service.

Matt connected with Keith Collins of Fort Huachuca Fire Department in Arizona to discuss the importance of firefighter fitness and occupational fitness assessments.

Matt connected with Chris Lopardi to discuss the importance of building up your relationships, and how his trust network helped him while dealing with a tragic loss.

Ben, Kevin Ferguson, and Chris Engelke have a conversation about the importance of education.

Matt sat down and talked with Cody Freel about the permanent change of station (PCS) process, the experiences those have provided, and the importance of networking.

In Episode 28, Matt speaks with Brigadier General William Kale to discuss his experiences so far in the Air Force and the role he played as a Base Fire Marshall and Commander. So far in his career, he has commanded at the squadron, group, and wing levels, has served on three headquarters staffs, and has served as a Legislative Fellow. In addition to sharing his personal experiences, he also discusses what his role is for Air Force Firefighters, career field initiatives on his radar, and what his expectations are for Firefighters currently serving. Brig Gen Kale currently serves as the Air Force Director of Civil Engineers, Deputy Chief of Staff for Logistics, Engineering, and Force Protection at the Headquarters U.S. Air Force, the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia.

In this episode, Matt & Ben talk with Chief David Donan. Chief Donan currently serves as the Fire Chief at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska. He is a retired Chief Master Sergeant and has served in the Air Force Fire Service for 38 years. In the episode, he shares insights into his philosophy on training and leadership, explains some future FES initiatives, and also shares his experience with the C-17 crash on Elmendorf AFB in 2010.

In this episode, Matt connects with Nathan Hutslar and Erik Montes, both Silver Flag Instructors for the United States Air Force. Silver Flag is intended to prepare Air Force Civil Engineers and other support functions to operate in contingency environments. Nate and Erik share their experiences teaching firefighter contingency operations at the Tyndall AFB, FL, and Anderson AFB, Guam sites. They describe what students experience during a typical class, share some of the differences between the sites, and much more.

In this episode, Matt and Ben connect with CMSgt Daryl Hogan who shares his Air Force experiences. He has served as a Firefighter, First Sergeant, and now Command Chief for the 30th Space Wing, Vandenberg AFB, CA. In this energetic and inspiring discussion, he explains how each position has shaped his success and what others can do to achieve their own success. Chief Hogan is on his way to be the Commandant of the Chief Master Sergeant Leadership Course at Maxwell-Gunter AFB, AL which is the pinnacle of enlisted professional military education. In this position, he will lead a team in developing and preparing CMSgts to become strategic level leaders.

In Episode 24, Matt talks with Chris Bauchle and Travis Bender who are both Air Force Reserve and Indianapolis Firefighters. They developed and teach the AFRC Firefighter Rescue and Survival Course held at Dobbins ARB, GA. They talk about their instruction methodology, discuss Firefighter response to stressful situations, and reinforce the importance of training reps to create "recognition primed decision-making" markers. Their instruction also incorporates fire service statistics such as mayday events and line of duty deaths.

In Episode 23, the AF FES Operations & Fire Vehicle Program Manager Fred Terryn talks with Matt and Ben about the many programs he is involved with for AF FES. He provides insight into how apparatus acquisitions are made, discusses the status of the EMS program, gives an update on the next generation SCBA and much more!

In Episode 22, Jeremy McLendon joins Ben to discuss his role as a member of the 45th Space Wing in supporting Space X and NASA space missions. Jeremy is a member of the Human Space Flight Rescue team and works closely with others in the DoD to develop and practice space capsule emergency response procedures.

In Episode 21, Beale AFB Fire Chief Kevin Smith joins Matt and Ben to discuss his philosophies on servant leadership, opportunity equality and perceptions in the department, and about Beale AFB’s response to a tragic U-2 crash.

In Episode 20, Louis F. Garland Fire Academy Instructors Cody Simpson and Jefferey Van Rees share some of the changes the academy has seen in recent years, what life is like as an instructor and how they're adapting during the pandemic.

In Episode 19, we speak with 2019 12 Outstanding Airman of the Year winner Justin Starks. He shares how he was able achieve success in the Air Force by seizing opportunity and having great teammates. He also talks about his educational pursuits, what drove him to author two books and what his plans are for the future. Justin offers a great example for anyone wanting to achieve similar success.

In Episode 18, we speak with Whit Dodson from Shaw AFB Fire Department about the detailed process they went through to analyze the effectiveness of their hose and nozzles, culminating with a total refresh of their structural firefighting setup.

In Episode 17, Dave Wurtzel speaks with us about firefighter fitness, health, and resiliency. He was on the 2017 & 2018 Firefighter Combat Challenge World Champion team, as well as the founder of the Non-Profit The First Twenty.

In Part 2 of Episode 16, the Air Force Fire Chief, Mr. Jeff Wagner, speaks with us about Diversity, Civilian Retirement Pay, and the future of Air Force Fire Emergency Services.

In Part 1 of Episode 16, the Air Force Fire Chief, Mr. Jeff Wagner, speaks with us about PFOS/PFAS blood testing, AFFF replacement, and Fire-Based EMS.

In Episode 15 we talked to RAF Alconbury Firefighter Bob Smith about the harrowing experience of performing CPR on his wife. In addition, he provided a look into how the UK Ministry of Defence and British Local National Direct Hire (LNDH) civilians play an important role in the US Air Force mission in England.

In this episode we talked with Fire Chief John Thompson about his experiences surrounding a collision between a B-1 bomber aircraft and ARFF apparatus while responding to an in-flight emergency. This event took place in 2008 at Andersen AFB, Guam.