Podcasts about fire service

Thirdalarmcowboys.comFounding Outlaw App- https://forms.gle/rA3y9vg6UqDcB2gs9Paynemason.com/thirdalarmcowboysPromo Code- TACMONTH1Protein and Supplements- 1stphorm.com/thirdalarmcowboysTestresq.comPromo Code- ThirdalarmThe Third Alarm Cowboys Podcast discusses the growth of the platform, the formation of the Founding Outlaws, and the issue of cowardice in the fire service. The host emphasizes the importance of speaking the truth and standing up for what is right, addressing the challenges faced by the fire service and the impact on mental health. Heath Meredith discusses the growing frustration and disillusionment among citizens and firefighters, emphasizing the need for authenticity, integrity, and adherence to constitutional rights. He also addresses the changing landscape of the fire service and the importance of pursuing fulfillment and purpose in one's career.TakeawaysPlatform growth and Founding Outlaws formationChallenges of cowardice in the fire serviceImportance of speaking the truth and standing up for what is right Constitutional rights and freedom of speech are at the forefront of citizens' frustrations.The fire service is experiencing a shift towards a focus on operational ability and real-world training.Chapters00:00 Platform Growth and Founding Outlaws Formation07:33 Challenges of Cowardice in the Fire Service27:18 Importance of Speaking the Truth and Standing Up for What is Right32:56 Growing Frustration and Disillusionment39:43 The Changing Landscape of the Fire Service48:59 Living a Reality You Don't Believe In59:13 Pursuing Fulfillment and Purpose

Send us Fan MailThe National Fire Academy has a name that still stops conversations cold, but a lot of firefighters are asking a blunt question: why doesn't the “Mecca” feel like the place you go to become deadly competent on the fireground? We dig into that disconnect without cheap shots, and we get honest about what the NFA is great at, namely executive leadership, grants, budgets, community risk reduction, and the administrative work that shapes an entire department.We also unpack why crews in the apparatus bay often lose faith in federalized training: it can feel too far from the nozzle, too focused on liability-driven risk avoidance, too slow to keep up with lightweight construction and new hazards, and too gated by prerequisites and affiliation rules. I share a personal gut-punch story about being accepted to the Executive Fire Officer Program and learning I could not continue after retirement due to the affiliation policy, even with experience and a platform to support the fire service.Then we get practical about where the best operational firefighting training really comes from: company-level repetition, the kitchen table, regional and state academies with burn towers and real props, hands-on conferences like FDIC, and the modern blend of fire science research from UL FSRI and NIST with street-tested engine and truck tactics. If you care about fire service training, fireground tactics, and building better firefighters, hit play, share this with your crew, and subscribe and leave a review so more people can find the conversation. The Energy DrinkFounded by Firefighters. Fuel for EveryoneDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showContact AFSO21's Weekend Wrap-up Podcast - Email us at podcast@afso21.comAs always, keep supporting your local fire and emergency services, stay safe, and keep on listening!

Dublin Fire Brigade continued to fight a large fire at a car dismantlers in north Co Dublin last night. We get the latest on the situation there with Chief Fire Officer Greg O'Dwyer.

Dublin Fire Brigade continued to fight a large fire at a car dismantlers in north Co Dublin last night. We get the latest on the situation there with Chief Fire Officer Greg O'Dwyer.

Darren O'Connor, District Officer with Dublin Fire Brigade, discusses a wildfire in the Dublin mountains yesterday.

What started as a discussion about the best firefighter work schedule quickly turned into a deep dive into recruitment, retention, staffing, and the future of the fire service.Visit:TheCoolFireman.comUnkiesSeasonings.comTheBurnBox.comMatt, Brian, and Adam compare some of the most common shift schedules, including 48/96, 24/72, 24/48, and other regional variations, while sharing firsthand experiences from their own departments. Matt explains why he's become a huge fan of the 48/96 schedule, Brian discusses Greenville Fire Rescue's transition to a 24/72 schedule, and Adam shares how Norfolk is using laterals and competitive schedules to attract firefighters from neighboring departments.The guys also tackle the realities of staffing shortages, mandatory overtime, succession planning, firefighter recruitment, and why departments have to think years ahead before making major operational changes. Is it really cheaper to pay overtime than hire another firefighter? How do departments prepare enough engineers and captains to support a fourth shift? And could better schedules become one of the biggest recruiting tools in the fire service?Before diving into the main topic, the crew announces this month's Patreon Perks winner, talks about preparations for SAFRE, gives updates from Unkie's Seasonings and Burn Box, and honors firefighters who recently made the ultimate sacrifice. They also discuss the devastating tornado damage at the Pierce Manufacturing facilities in Appleton, Wisconsin, and what that could mean for the fire service across the country.Whether your department works 24/48, 48/96, 24/72, or something completely different, this episode is packed with honest discussion about what works, what doesn't, and what the future of firefighter scheduling may look like.As always, thank you for listening and for being part of The Cool Fireman Podcast family. We'd love to hear from you. What schedule does your department work, and if you could choose any schedule, what would it be?

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tom Richardson spent more than four decades serving the people of New York City, ultimately becoming the 37th Chief of Department of FDNY. But as he shares in this conversation, leadership isn't about chasing titles, it's about being prepared when opportunity arrives, trusting the people around you, and never forgetting who you're there to serve. In this episode of The Chief Exchange Podcast, Chief Richardson reflects on his 42-year career in the fire service, the leadership lessons he learned rising through the ranks of FDNY, and what it was like helping lead one of the largest and busiest fire departments in the world through some of its most challenging periods. We discuss the importance of timing and preparation, why great leaders rely on great teams, and how FDNY transformed following 9/11 through improved training, technology, intelligence sharing, and incident management. We also dive into the importance of getting information to the boots on the ground, how one observant company officer likely prevented a catastrophic attack in Times Square, what Chief Richardson learned from generations of firefighters before him, the role mentorship played throughout his career, and why remembering the sacrifices of 9/11 remains as important today as ever.

Frank Otchere

It’s Party for Two, and Mark is joined by Karen Stintz, former Toronto City Councillor, former TTC Chair, political commentator, and VP of finance and operations for the Canadian Council for Rehabilitation and Work, where they talk about the top stories of the day. Next, Mark takes calls on blood donation experiences: Have you given blood lately? Ever had a problem? Would you donate more often if you were paid? What would make the system better? Mark then asks listeners whether it’s time for Canada to create a national wildland firefighting service, funded through the defence budget. Mark speaks with Rob Hindi, AM800 CKLW reporter, for coverage of the Gordie Howe Bridge opening as the first cars cross the bridge.

In this episode, Nole and Kevin kick things off with a recap of Kevin's family trip to see Forrest Frank in Los Angeles, navigating the strange contrast of driving past old shooting and stabbing calls while the kids listen to worship music, mixed with some unfiltered thoughts on the absolute commercialism of modern Christian concerts ($100 t-shirts, anyone?).Then, the guys revisit a literal "hand grenade" question from a few weeks back: Can you be a good leader if you're obese? They pull no punches as they dive back into the uncomfortable truth about physical fitness, discipline, and why being afraid to hurt a brother's feelings can ultimately lead to watching them careen off a cliff. From the biblical charge to treat the body as a temple to the grit of summer "work hardening" in the heat, this conversation breaks down what we owe to our crews, our families, and ourselves. Finally, they tackle the shifting culture of the firehouse kitchen table, exploring how to guard camaraderie and tradition when everyone is on a different diet.Big thank you to My Epic and Facedown Records for the use of their song "Hail" in our podcast!https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dz2RZThURTU&ab_channel=FacedownRecordsThe Fire You Carry on YouTube.Sign up for a class at The Fire Up Program!https://www.fireupprogram.com/programsThe Fire Up Progam video.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I__ErPW46Ec&t=12s&ab_channel=FireUpProgramThe Fire You Carry Instagram.https://www.instagram.com/thefireyoucarry/Donate to The Fire Up Program.https://www.fireupprogram.com/donateThe Fire Up Program Instagram.https://www.instagram.com/fireup_program/Kevin's Instagram.https://www.instagram.com/kevinpwelsh/?hl=en

Frank Otchere

The Head 2 Head Challenge is back with members of the emergency services joining forces to raise money for Charity. This year it’s for the Bray Senior fund and will include members of the Fire Service, Coastguard, Gardai and Defence Forces alongside members of the public walking Wicklow Head to Bray Head along the coast. Firefighter Brian Murray joined Nikki Hayes to discuss

Paul talks about the fire that spread near Camden Fort in Crosshaven yesterday.

Is it equipment? Training? EMS supplies? Something else entirely?In this episode of The Cool Fireman Podcast, Matt and Brian tackle a topic every firefighter has an opinion on: where does the fire service waste the most money—and where should we actually be investing it? From bottled water and disposable supplies to expired medications, conference budgets, uniforms, and station culture, they dive into the difficult balance between stewardship and providing firefighters with the tools they need to succeed. The conversation goes beyond dollars and cents. Brian shares why transparency with crews matters when discussing budgets, while Matt offers the perspective from the firehouse floor—where many firefighters understandably think, "Not my problem." Together they explore how leadership can bridge that gap through communication, trust, and showing crews the return on investment when departments save money. The episode also includes:- A Patreon update and July Patreon Perks winner- Sponsor updates from Unkie's Seasonings, Burn Box, FD Collectors Club, and Operation Yellow Tape- A heartfelt moment of silence for firefighters and families facing difficult times- Listener comments and Snail Mail- A discussion about paycheck protection, FMLA, and protecting your family if you're injured off duty Whether you're a firefighter, company officer, chief officer, volunteer, or simply interested in how fire departments operate, this episode offers practical leadership lessons and a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges of managing public resources.- Biggest wastes of money in the fire service- Transparency in fire department budgets- Why small expenses add up- Training vs. equipment funding- ROI in the fire service- Building trust between chiefs and firefighters- Leadership through communication- Firefighter financial responsibility- Patreon updates & listener mail- Protecting your paycheck

“Why do we have all of these fire agencies?” It's a question many in the wildland world have asked for years — and Chief Brian Fennessy is now in position to do something about it. The director of the newly created U.S. Wildland Fire Service explains what it means to build an entirely new federal fire organization from the ground up and why the mission extends far beyond changing patches and organizational charts. Fennessy discusses unifying federal wildland agencies, creating a true firefighter-first culture, reducing bureaucracy and giving fire leaders the authority to make faster operational decisions. He also explains why prevention, fuels management, firefighter wellness and stronger communication with the public are just as critical as suppression. This episode of the Better Every Shift Podcast is sponsored by TheFireStore. Learn more about getting the gear you need at prices you can afford by visiting TheFireStore. Email bettereveryshift@firerescue1.com to share your feedback.

thirdalarmcowboys.comCigars- Paynemason.com/thirdalarmcowboysPromo Code-FistfightEnergy Drinks/Protein- 1stphorm.com/thirdalarmcowboysThe podcast episode delves into the toxic and corrupt state of the fire service, addressing issues of toxic behavior, leadership, and the mental health crisis. It highlights the culture of fear and silence, as well as the duty to act and the goldfish mentality prevalent in the fire service. Heath Meredith discusses the impact of AI in the fire service, emphasizing the need for critical thinking and authenticity. He also delves into the business side of the fire service and the role of firefighters in society. Finally, he encourages action to create positive change within the fire service.TakeawaysToxic behavior and corrupt leadership are pervasive issues in the fire service.The culture of fear and silence contributes to the mental health crisis among firefighters. Authenticity and real-life experience are crucial in the fire service.The role of firefighters extends beyond firefighting, impacting society and culture.Chapters00:00 The State of the Union of the Fire Service10:05 The Culture of Fear and Silence31:46 The Duty to Act and the Goldfish Mentality47:20 The Business Side of Fire Service53:28 The Role of Firefighters in Society01:00:53 Taking Action to Create Change

Send us Fan MailA leather wallet making kit. A grandfather who fell in love with the craft. And a family shop that quietly became part of firefighter culture for decades. We're sitting down with Torri D'alesio to talk about what people rarely see behind custom firefighter leatherwork: the real production process, the costs, the pressure of deadlines, and the pride of building gear that shows up on helmets and turnouts across the country.We get into the legacy work many firefighters know, including traditional leather fire helmet manufacturing, and what changes when you're shipping at scale while material prices rise from tariffs and leather supply costs. Torri breaks down how the workflow actually moves from leather cutting, molding, and sewing to the finishing steps done later, and we talk about the broader lineup too: helmet shields, identifier panels, chin straps, radio straps and radio cases that firefighters and EMS love, plus the custom projects that keep the craft fun.Then we go deeper than gear. Tori shares what it's like to take over a family business, learn every role from the ground up, and finally step back enough to lead without micromanaging. We talk networking and relationship building at fire conferences and expos like FDIC, social media burnout and privacy, and the constant tension first responders know well: overtime money versus time with your kids.If you care about the fire service, small business leadership, firefighter equipment, or simply doing meaningful work without losing your life to it, you'll take something from this conversation. Subscribe, share this with a friend in the firehouse or in your community, and leave a review so more people can find the show.Thanks for taking the time to listen in. Please leave us 5 stars on Spotify & Apple Podcasts with a review. THANK YOU!

Join Captain Stephen Shakeshaft as he chats with new firefighter Avery on the Fayetteville Fire Podcast. Discover Avery's journey as a woman in the fire service. Learn about her motivations, challenges, and aspirations in a male-dominated field. This episode offers insights into the unique dynamics of fire station life and the supportive environment that fosters growth and learning.

Rachael Staebell didn't set out to be a trailblazer — she simply showed up, did the work, and followed what felt like home. From her background as a competitive athlete to becoming the first full-time female firefighter in the City of Fountain and now President of Women in Fire, her journey highlights the powerful parallels between sports and the fire service: teamwork, preparation, resilience, and trusting the people around you. In this episode of The Chief Exchange, Rachael shares why being willing to go first matters, even when the path isn't clearly defined, and how the simple but underrated skill of just showing up can change the trajectory of your career. We dive into the idea that if the job constantly feels like too much work, you may be on the wrong path, and why representation is critical — because you can't be what you can't see, but once you see it, you absolutely can be it. She also brings a candid perspective on what male leaders must better understand about pregnancy in the fire service, the evolving role of vendors and the unseen network supporting public safety, and the important initiatives Women in Fire is driving today around mentorship, PPE fit, and firefighter health. From mental health and therapy to leadership and belonging, this conversation is about perspective, growth, and building a stronger, more inclusive future for the fire service.

Thirdalarmcowboys.comCigars- Paynemason.com/thirdalarmcowboysPromo code: TACProtein/Energy Drinks: 1stphorm.com/thirdalarmcowboysThe podcast episode features Heath Meredith discussing the growth of Third Alarm Cowboys, his personal background in the oil field, and the value of hard work in the fire service. Heath emphasizes the importance of earning one's title and badge every day through hard work and dedication.TakeawaysHard work and dedication are essential in the fire serviceEarning one's title and badge through manual labor and dedication is a core value of the Third Alarm Cowboys brandChapters00:00 Introduction to Third Alarm Cowboys Podcast05:31 Challenges in Pursuing a Firefighting Career13:30 The Value of Hard Work and Accomplishment25:35 The Fire Service and the Value of Hard Work

This week on The Cool Fireman Podcast, Matt, Brian, and Adam tackle one of the most controversial topics in the fire service:

Mentorship is one of the most powerful ways we pass on the standard, develop our people, preserve culture, and protect the future of the job.When done right, it goes far beyond a policy or a one-time conversation. It becomes a trusted, intentional professional relationship built on respect, honesty, and the courage to have hard conversations that develop knowledge, skills, judgment, and character.Effective mentorship invests in: • Operational knowledge, consistency, and reliability • Leadership principles and how to truly care about your people's growth• Sharing real lessons learned from both successes and mistakes• Helping members navigate career growth and prepare for the next step• Strengthening the organization's culture and long-term futureStrong mentors bring honest feedback, encouragement, accountability, the willingness to correct unsafe habits, and the discipline to challenge complacency…all while leading by example and investing real time.Strong mentees stay teachable, show initiative, ask questions, accept feedback, and actually put in the work.⚠️ Real mentorship is NOT friendship, favoritism, creating exact copies of yourself, or constant criticism with no balance.When built the right way, it changes everything from the firehouse to the fireground.Join me, Floyd Wise, and Christian Lambis as we break down what real mentorship should actually look like, where it most often falls short, and how to build something that truly works in your department.

Frank Otchere

CLICK HERE JOIN ME AT BLUE LIGHT SHOW | LONDON | JULY 2026My guest today is Justin Fitzwater, firefighter with the Kansas City Fire Department and founder of Fitzwater Leather, a company renowned throughout the American fire service for creating some of the most stunning custom helmet fronts and leatherwork you'll ever see.Fitzwater Leather INSTAGRAMFitzwater Leather WEBSITEPlease support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon CrewPodcast Apparel, Hoodies, Flags, Mugs HERE Please check out our Partners supporting this episode:William Wood Watches - Discount code FFPODCAST gives the user 10% off full range on websitePBI high-performance fabrics FIRST TACTICAL- tactical gear for elite operatorsGORE-TEX Professional ClothingMSA The Safety CompanyJAFCOIDEXFIRE & EVACUATION SERVICE LTD Send us Fan MailSupport the show***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.***Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew

Hot Take Meter: Are We Setting the Internet on Fire?This week, the entire crew is back together—Matt, Doug, Brian, and Unkie—for a brand-new game called Hot Take Meter. Every statement gets ranked as a Cold Take, Warm Take, Hot Take, or Nuclear Take, and the guys aren't holding back.From rookie cell phone policies and firehouse traditions to chiefs riding rigs and the ever-controversial topic of vertical ventilation, this episode dives headfirst into some of the fire service's most debated topics. Some takes spark healthy discussion. Others threaten to melt the comment section.In This Episode:

CLICK HERE JOIN ME AT BLUE LIGHT SHOW | LONDON | JULY 2026On the 6th of January 1995, at five in the morning, a man discovered his sofa was on fire in apartment 509 of a thirty-storey residential block in North York, Toronto. He tried to put it out, failed, and ran leaving his apartment door wide open behind him. That single decision set off a chain of events that killed six people, all of them found above the twentieth floor in smoke-filled stairwells, in a building where the fire never meaningfully spread beyond the room it started in.In this episode I'm delivering a full operational debrief of the Forest Laneway fire, one of the most instructive high-rise residential incidents ever documented. I'm following the physics of stack effect in a thirty-storey concrete building on a sub-zero January night. I'm looking at the scissors staircase design that confused both escaping residents and arriving firefighters. I'm examining the sixteen-minute window of survivable self-evacuation that closed before a quarter of the building had even heard the alarm. And I'm asking the questions this incident demands we ask about how we brief high-rise fires, how we communicate with trapped occupants, and how many of the same failure points are sitting inside buildings in your area tonight.This is not a story about one bad night in Canada thirty years ago. This is a lesson in what happens when ordinary things go wrong in the right order.Podcast Apparel, Hoodies, Flags, Mugs HERE Please check out our Partners supporting this episode areWilliam Wood Watches - Discount code FFPODCAST gives the user 10% off full range on websitePBI high-performance fabrics FIRST TACTICAL- tactical gear for elite operatorsGORE-TEX Professional ClothingMSA The Safety CompanyJAFCOIDEXFIRE & EVACUATION SERVICE LTD Send us Fan MailSupport the show***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.***Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew

Frank Otchere

Frank Otchere

In 1991, James Hall joined the Umatilla Tribal Fire Department as a volunteer firefighter on the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation in Eastern Oregon. Today, Hall is the fire chief of the agency, leading its response to structural fires, wildland fires and calls for ambulance transportation services in a coverage area spanning hundreds of square miles.    In February, Hall was appointed by Governor Tina Kotek’s Office to serve a three-year term on the Governor’s Fire Service Policy Council, making him the first tribal representative to serve on the council in its history. A bill passed by the Oregon Legislature last year made changes to the council’s membership, including a requirement that one of its members be a fire agency representative from one of Oregon’s nine federally recognized tribes.    Hall shares his recent work on the council and efforts to advocate for all tribal fire agencies in the state.  

We sit down with Andy Starnes of Insight Fire Training. We hope you enjoy what's a very informative show!Thank you to our sponsors - Elkhart Brass, Key Fire Hose, and Vanguard Safety Wear!Andy's Bio - Andy Starnes of Insight Fire TrainingAs Owner, Chief Instructor, and Level II Thermography Certified professional, Andy leads Insight Fire Training, a globally recognized training organization specializing in thermal imaging and fire behavior education. Global Impact • International curriculum deployment in Canada, Germany, Taiwan, Spain, Poland, and throughout South America • World-class instructor cadre comprised of fire service veterans holding Level 1 Industrial Thermography Certification or Tactical Firefighting Thermologist Certification from Western Kentucky University • Collaborative partnerships with manufacturers and training centers worldwide Innovation & Certification Development • Product development consultant for multiple thermal imaging camera manufacturers since 2013. • Pioneering certification program: Developed the first thermography-based firefighter certification, credentialed through Western Kentucky University and peer-reviewed by Kentucky Thermal Institute.Service & LeadershipBoard Positions & Community Engagement • Retired Battalion Chief: Charlotte Fire Department 1998-2023. • Board Member, 5-Alarm Task Force (non-profit supporting first responders). Founder of Bringing Back Brotherhood (501-3c non-profit) • Master Craftsman, Project Kill the Flashover • Active supporter of multiple first responder charitable organizations • Served as a technical editor for numerous fire service publications.  Conference Speaking & Media • International presenter at fire service conferences globally (48 states and 12 countries). • Featured guest on numerous fire service podcasts. • Subject matter expert on tactical thermal imaging and modern fire behavior: Level II Thermography Certified from Infrared Training Center and assisted in testing and developing numerous fire service products. Currently provides consulting services for the top three thermal imaging manufacturers in the industry.Recognition & Honors • 2023: Inducted into the Hall of Legends, Legacies, and Leaders by the National Fire Heritage Center at FDIC. • January 2025: Nominated as one of the Top 20 Influencers in the Fire Service by Fire Safety Journal Americas. • Contributing author to several fire service textbooks such as: Euro Firefighter 2 and The Book of Search.Mission & PassionAndy is deeply committed to demystifying the complex terminology of modern fire behavior and empowering firefighters worldwide with the knowledge and tools necessary for safer, more effective operations. Through Insight Fire Training, he continues to advance thermal imaging education and fire behavior understanding, ensuring that the next generation of firefighters is better prepared to face today's fire service challenges. His professional cadre consists of a diverse international group of fire service veterans: USA, Germany, Canada, and Australia.For training inquiries, speaking engagements, or product consultation, please contact Insight Fire Training LLC at: https://insighttrainingllc.com/contact/ (https://insighttrainingllc.com/contact/)

Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) has urged the public to immediately switch off all electrical appliances and disconnect the main power supply whenever homes or communities become flooded

(00:00:00) Ep. 16 Female Issues in the Fire Service Part 1 (00:05:40) Discussion on issues with Female bunker gear (PPE), wildland gear, and station uniform standards (00:34:39) Common Female reproductive health issues in the Fire Service. Pregnancy, light duty, return to work, lactation, etc. (00:53:45) Closing Comments Welcome to Episode 16 of the IAFF 7th Distirict Podcast. Thanks for sticking with us, as we continue to roll out our re-launch!Join us for Episdode 16 as Reece and Ricky are joined by several members of the International Association of Fire Fighters Female Health and Safety Committee for an in depth conversation surrounding common issues that Females face is the modern Fire Service.Are you an Executive Board member, Service Representative, or a Local member interested in being infomed? This is a great episode for you to get up to date on the issues our Sisters in this Union experience. We share our show links and agenda ahead of time via IAFF 7th District email. Join the conversation and log on for our next show.  A HUGE THANK YOU to Dani Landholm, Skye Downes, Anna Melillo, Corey Condren, and Nicole Fazio from the Female Health and Safety Committee for spending some time with and providing a wealth of knowledge on these issues. Follow the IAFF 7th District today on all major social media outlets. Videocast available on our Meta platforms, and coming soon to Youtube.Find us atFacebook- @IAFF7thDVPInstagram- @iaffmag7Do you have issues you would like to bring to the podcast? Drop us a line on social media today

Nobody tells you that becoming chief means owning problems you can't fully control, absorbing pressure that doesn't clock out and still leading like the weight isn't showing. Columbia (Mo.) Fire Chief Brian Schaeffer digs into the uncomfortable realities of adding bugles, including the pressure to move an organization forward when maintaining the status quo is far easier. Schaeffer talks succession planning, firefighter wellness, organizational culture and why chiefs have to stop acting like “fire gods” and start acting like servant leaders. He also offers a sharp warning about becoming part of the “CAVE” mentality — Chiefs Against Virtually Everything — and why protecting comfort is one of the biggest threats to innovation. This episode of the Better Every Shift Podcast is sponsored by TheFireStore. Learn more about getting the gear you need at prices you can afford by visiting TheFireStore. Email bettereveryshift@firerescue1.com to share your feedback.

Bernie Meehan spent over 40 years on the front lines as both a paramedic and firefighter — responding to emergencies most people never have to witness. In this episode of Locked In with Ian Bick, Bernie opens up about the realities of a career spent in the chaos of life and death situations, the calls that stuck with him long after the sirens stopped, and what four decades in emergency services really does to a person. He breaks down what first responders actually deal with behind the scenes — the adrenaline, the trauma, the toughest moments — and the perspective on life that only comes from spending 40 years running toward danger when everyone else runs away. _____________________________________________ #Paramedic #Firefighter #FirstResponder _____________________________________________ Connect with Bernie Meehan: https://www.facebook.com/bernie.meehan/ _____________________________________________ Hosted, Executive Produced & Edited By Ian Bick: https://www.instagram.com/ian_bick/?hl=en https://ianbick.com/ _____________________________________________ Shop Locked In Merch: http://www.ianbick.com/shop _____________________________________________ Timestamps: 00:00 40 Years as a Paramedic and Firefighter — Bernie's Story 00:20 Growing Up in the Country and How It Shaped Everything 01:08 The Family Influence and the Moment He Knew Fire Service Was His Calling 02:11 His First Steps Into EMS and the Fire Service 02:52 Why He Chose Fire Service Over Everything Else 04:08 The Real Relationship Between Fire Service and Law Enforcement 05:06 What a Career as a Paramedic Actually Looks Like 06:12 Early Paramedic Training and the Manhattan Stories Nobody Forgets 07:18 How EMS Has Changed and Why It's Harder Than Ever 08:21 Paramedic vs Nurse — The Differences Nobody Talks About 09:44 How the Drug Crisis Changed Paramedic Work Forever 11:02 EMS Then vs Now — How the Opioid Epidemic Changed Everything 12:54 The Career Defining Moments That Changed How He Sees the Job 13:57 Why Paramedics and Firefighters Don't Get the Recognition They Deserve 15:07 Urban vs Rural EMS — The Quality Gap Nobody Discusses 17:17 Fire Service in Rural Areas and the Ambulance Access Problem 18:52 What It Takes to Become a Firefighter Today vs Then 20:16 The Training Education and Ongoing Learning Nobody Warns You About 22:23 The Biggest Challenges Facing New Firefighters Today 23:28 The Non Emergency Calls That Take Up More Time Than You Think 25:06 Holiday Hazards and the Thanksgiving Stories He'll Never Forget 27:29 How They Prioritize Calls and the Unusual Emergencies Nobody Expects 29:23 The Moments of Real Danger and What Command Leadership Really Looks Like 31:03 How Experienced Responders Predict Emergency Outcomes 32:13 The Most Common Calls and the Hidden Problem of Hoarding 34:34 Hoarding Obesity and the Unique Rescue Challenges Nobody Talks About 38:33 The Real Causes of House Fires and the Safety Culture That Could Prevent Them 40:31 How Modern Technology Is Changing Firefighting and Response Times 43:33 On the Scene — Incident Priorities and the Animal Rescues Nobody Expects 46:09 Coping With Tragedy — How First Responders Handle the Emotional Toll 51:10 How Mental Health Support for First Responders Has Finally Started to Change 54:28 Why There Is Never a Quiet Day in EMS — The Workload Reality 57:24 How Public Perception of First Responders Has Shifted 59:07 The Teamwork Between First Responders That Saves Lives 01:00:50 The Most Difficult Calls — Crashes and How Auto Technology Is Changing Everything 01:06:37 The Practical Safety Tips That Could Save Your Life in a Car Emergency 01:10:58 Holiday Emergencies — Fireworks Nightclubs and the Calls Nobody Plans For 01:14:50 The Unique Calls From Nightlife and What They Taught Him 01:20:26 How First Responders Are Adjusting to New and Changing Risks 01:26:39 Supporting Mental Health After Tragedy — What Actually Works 01:33:31 What It's Really Like Responding Inside Prisons and Institutions 01:37:37 Fire Safety in Prisons and Large Events — What Nobody Talks About 01:41:11 Mental Health Advocacy and the Long Road to Trauma Recovery 01:49:19 His Advice for New First Responders and How the System Needs to Change 01:51:31 Career Reflections — What 40 Years on the Front Lines Taught Him 01:54:10 Why He Embraced the Chaos and What It Gave Him 01:56:00 Final Thoughts — The Power of Change and What Comes Next _____________________________________________ To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://advertising.libsyn.com/LockedInWithIanBicka Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bernie Meehan spent over 40 years on the front lines as both a paramedic and firefighter — responding to emergencies most people never have to witness. In this episode of Locked In with Ian Bick, Bernie opens up about the realities of a career spent in the chaos of life and death situations, the calls that stuck with him long after the sirens stopped, and what four decades in emergency services really does to a person. He breaks down what first responders actually deal with behind the scenes — the adrenaline, the trauma, the toughest moments — and the perspective on life that only comes from spending 40 years running toward danger when everyone else runs away. _____________________________________________ #Paramedic #Firefighter #FirstResponder _____________________________________________ Connect with Bernie Meehan: https://www.facebook.com/bernie.meehan/ _____________________________________________ Hosted, Executive Produced & Edited By Ian Bick: https://www.instagram.com/ian_bick/?hl=en https://ianbick.com/ _____________________________________________ Shop Locked In Merch: http://www.ianbick.com/shop _____________________________________________ Timestamps: 00:00 40 Years as a Paramedic and Firefighter — Bernie's Story 00:20 Growing Up in the Country and How It Shaped Everything 01:08 The Family Influence and the Moment He Knew Fire Service Was His Calling 02:11 His First Steps Into EMS and the Fire Service 02:52 Why He Chose Fire Service Over Everything Else 04:08 The Real Relationship Between Fire Service and Law Enforcement 05:06 What a Career as a Paramedic Actually Looks Like 06:12 Early Paramedic Training and the Manhattan Stories Nobody Forgets 07:18 How EMS Has Changed and Why It's Harder Than Ever 08:21 Paramedic vs Nurse — The Differences Nobody Talks About 09:44 How the Drug Crisis Changed Paramedic Work Forever 11:02 EMS Then vs Now — How the Opioid Epidemic Changed Everything 12:54 The Career Defining Moments That Changed How He Sees the Job 13:57 Why Paramedics and Firefighters Don't Get the Recognition They Deserve 15:07 Urban vs Rural EMS — The Quality Gap Nobody Discusses 17:17 Fire Service in Rural Areas and the Ambulance Access Problem 18:52 What It Takes to Become a Firefighter Today vs Then 20:16 The Training Education and Ongoing Learning Nobody Warns You About 22:23 The Biggest Challenges Facing New Firefighters Today 23:28 The Non Emergency Calls That Take Up More Time Than You Think 25:06 Holiday Hazards and the Thanksgiving Stories He'll Never Forget 27:29 How They Prioritize Calls and the Unusual Emergencies Nobody Expects 29:23 The Moments of Real Danger and What Command Leadership Really Looks Like 31:03 How Experienced Responders Predict Emergency Outcomes 32:13 The Most Common Calls and the Hidden Problem of Hoarding 34:34 Hoarding Obesity and the Unique Rescue Challenges Nobody Talks About 38:33 The Real Causes of House Fires and the Safety Culture That Could Prevent Them 40:31 How Modern Technology Is Changing Firefighting and Response Times 43:33 On the Scene — Incident Priorities and the Animal Rescues Nobody Expects 46:09 Coping With Tragedy — How First Responders Handle the Emotional Toll 51:10 How Mental Health Support for First Responders Has Finally Started to Change 54:28 Why There Is Never a Quiet Day in EMS — The Workload Reality 57:24 How Public Perception of First Responders Has Shifted 59:07 The Teamwork Between First Responders That Saves Lives 01:00:50 The Most Difficult Calls — Crashes and How Auto Technology Is Changing Everything 01:06:37 The Practical Safety Tips That Could Save Your Life in a Car Emergency 01:10:58 Holiday Emergencies — Fireworks Nightclubs and the Calls Nobody Plans For 01:14:50 The Unique Calls From Nightlife and What They Taught Him 01:20:26 How First Responders Are Adjusting to New and Changing Risks 01:26:39 Supporting Mental Health After Tragedy — What Actually Works 01:33:31 What It's Really Like Responding Inside Prisons and Institutions 01:37:37 Fire Safety in Prisons and Large Events — What Nobody Talks About 01:41:11 Mental Health Advocacy and the Long Road to Trauma Recovery 01:49:19 His Advice for New First Responders and How the System Needs to Change 01:51:31 Career Reflections — What 40 Years on the Front Lines Taught Him 01:54:10 Why He Embraced the Chaos and What It Gave Him 01:56:00 Final Thoughts — The Power of Change and What Comes Next _____________________________________________ To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://advertising.libsyn.com/LockedInWithIanBicka Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This is a hard one to describe. It was a round table discussion of sorts, with Tara Stein, Matt Coffey, John Harrell, Bozeb Beckwith and Kyle MacLowry. All with unique expertise and interest in fire service behavioral health, and how we can help one another. We start close to home talking about Bob Stere and then zoom out in an attempt to generalize some of the challenges faced by some fire fighters.

How do Trust and Training relate in the Fire Service?Whats my biggest flaw?thirdalarmcowboys.comProtein and energy drinks1stphorm.com/thirdalarmcowboysCigarspaynemason.com/thirdalarmcowboys

In this episode I sit down with Peter Younes, host of Project Command, to explore one of the biggest hidden gaps in the modern fire service: our ability to turn good ideas into finished, effective change.We talk about why firefighters are often brilliant at delivering under pressure on the fireground but far less prepared for the complex world of projects, planning, implementation, stakeholder management and organisational change. Peter shares his journey from firefighter and captain into leading major projects, building structure around delivery and learning why so many well intentioned ideas fail before they ever reach the people they are supposed to help.This conversation gets into mission & scope creep, change management, soft skills, behavioural friction, leadership development, promotion gaps and why the fire service needs people who can do more than identify problems. It needs people who can actually get things done.FIND PETER HERE FIND PROJECT COMMAND PODCAST HEREAccess all episodes, documents, GIVEAWAYS & debriefs HEREPodcast Apparel, Hoodies, Flags, Mugs HERE Please check out our Partners supporting this episode areWilliam Wood Watches - Discount code FFPODCAST gives the user 10% off full range on websiteFIRST TACTICAL- tactical gear for elite operatorsGORE-TEX Professional ClothingMSA The Safety CompanyJAFCOIDEXFIRE & EVACUATION SERVICE LTD Send us Fan MailSupport the show***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.***Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew

“Suppression is always going to be there,” Chief Brian Fennessy told the Mountain West News Bureau. “But we're not going to suppress our way out of this situation.”

This episode of the Not a-Fib Podcast features Dr. Sarah Jahnke, someone who spent over a decade researching the health of first responders. The conversation moves past the usual surface-level advice to tackle the deep-seated cultural issues that lead to burnout and chronic disease. Jahnke challenges the "badge of honor" mentality surrounding sleep deprivation, citing evidence that shift work itself is a likely carcinogen. The discussion also reframes mental health through a unique lens, comparing it to hypertension—a condition that requires constant monitoring rather than just emergency intervention. While the statistics on depression and PTSD in the fire service remain high compared to the general population, Jahnke highlights the protective power of the fire service's unique camaraderie.   Quick favor: take our 3-minute (anonymous) listener survey to help shape what we cover next: https://sprw.io/stt-lfjMN

This episode with Ben Selby from the Fire Brigades Union takes a clear and honest look at the pressures facing the UK fire and rescue service, from funding cuts and the loss of around 12,000 firefighters since 2010 to the real-world impact seen in places like Oxfordshire and Dorset and Wiltshire. We explore the strain on on-call systems, the need for national standards and how workforce changes, duty systems and family support are shaping the modern job. The conversation also dives into firefighter health, contamination and the move toward health monitoring, alongside a critical discussion on water infrastructure, flow rates and the risks of relying on a system firefighters do not control. This is a grounded, wide-ranging discussion about safety, resilience and what the future of the fire service could look like if the current trajectory continues.Support & Join the FBU HERE Connect with Ben HEREAccess all episodes, documents, GIVEAWAYS & debriefs HEREPodcast Apparel, Hoodies, Flags, Mugs HERE Please check out our Partners supporting this episode areWilliam Wood Watches - Discount code FFPODCAST gives the user 10% off full range on websiteFIRST TACTICAL- tactical gear for elite operatorsGORE-TEX Professional ClothingMSA The Safety CompanyJAFCOIDEXFIRE & EVACUATION SERVICE LTD Send us Fan MailSupport the show***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.***Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew

Frank Otchere

Send us Fan MailThe podcast episode details the generational crisis of occupational cancer among firefighters and the cultural shift required to address it.The key points include:Cultural Shift: The traditional image of the "salty" veteran, identified by soot-stained gear, has been exposed as a marker of exposure and a "death sentence". The culture is shifting toward a "Professional" standard where cleanliness, decontamination, and wellness are prioritized as essential survival skills.The Hazard: Modern fires involve "solidified oil" (plastics, synthetic materials) that, when burned, create a toxic chemical soup, unlike the natural materials of the past.The Evidence: Landmark NIOSH studies (2013 and 2015) confirmed that firefighters face a 9% higher risk of cancer diagnosis and a 14% higher risk of death compared to the general population. Cancer accounts for approximately 66% to 80% of career firefighter line-of-duty deaths (LODDs) for IAFF members.The PFAS Paradox: Firefighters are exposed to carcinogenic "forever chemicals" (PFAS) through Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) and, disturbingly, the moisture barriers in their own turnout gear. The research shows that for every 5-degree increase in skin temperature, the skin's absorption rate increases by 400%, allowing toxins to be "cooked" into the body.The Roadmap: New protocols focus on prevention and early detection, including on-scene "Gross Decon" (scrubbing down with soap and water), the "Clean Cab" initiative (storing contaminated gear externally), and a push for annual, fire-specific medical physicals. Early detection at Stage 1 offers a high survival rate, underscoring that wellness is a survival skill. Support the showContact AFSO21's Weekend Wrap-up Podcast - Email us at podcast@afso21.comAs always, keep supporting your local fire and emergency services, stay safe, and keep on listening!

Today on the show, Bill Gates' nuclear power project in Kemmerer is officially under construction. We talk to a reporter who was at Terra Power's groundbreaking last week. We hear from a landslide specialist about what can happen when it rains over a wildfire burn scar. And we head to the gym with a 68-year–old powerlifter. Turns out, heavy weights are good for your bones, brain and social life. Those stories and more.

Send us Fan Mail There is a kind of strength the world applauds, and a kind that quietly costs you everything. For women in the fire service, showing up strong every single day is not a choice, it is a survival strategy. But what happens when you retire, the structure disappears, and you are left holding a question nobody trained you for: who am I now? In this episode, Yusuf sits down with Deena Johnson Lee, the first female fire chief in the South Bay region of Los Angeles County. Deena opens up about moral injury, the exhaustion of constantly proving yourself in a male-dominated field, the identity collapse that can follow retirement, and the slow, honest work of rebuilding yourself from the inside out. This conversation is for anyone who has ever worn strength like armour, and quietly wondered when they would get to take it off. About the Guest: Deena Johnson Lee is a retired fire chief, coach, and advocate for women in the fire service. She served with the El Segundo Fire Department for over 20 years, rising from firefighter to the first female fire chief in the South Bay region of Los Angeles County, a position she held from 2021 until her retirement in April 2023. Now known as The Feminist Fire Chief, she coaches and mentors women firefighters and first responders, helping them build internal authority, recover from moral injury, and navigate the identity shifts that come with leaving the service. Key Takeaways: Being the strong one has a hidden cost. First responders learn to compartmentalise and set their humanity aside on the job. That emotional suppression does not disappear. It accumulates, and it often only surfaces after retirement, when the structure is gone and the feelings finally arrive. Moral injury is real in the fire service. The term describes the slow, accumulated damage of abandoning parts of yourself, internalising shame, and never being allowed to be seen fully. It is different from PTSD and often goes unrecognised, especially in women. The validation has to come from within. The deeper truth Deena discovered was that much of her proving herself was not just for the men around her. It was for herself. Building internal authority and a strong self-concept is what allows you to stop outsourcing your worth. The identity shock after retirement is real and largely invisible. When the job has been your whole identity, leaving it can feel like a kind of death. Many first responders, men and women alike, stay connected to adjacent roles just to avoid facing the question of who they are without the uniform. Suppressing your feminine self to fit in is its own form of loss. Women in male-dominated workplaces often hide the parts of themselves that do not fit the culture. Children, softness, vulnerability. Reclaiming those parts after years of suppression takes deliberate, compassionate work. Purpose is not found. It is designed. After retirement, Deena discovered that looking under every rock for her next purpose was not working. She had to intentionally design what came next, and she circled back to what mattered most: coaching and mentoring women so they do not have to flounder alone the way she did. Connect With Deena Johnson Lee: Instagram and TikTok: @TheFeminist FireChief (search "The Feminist Fire Chief") Website and coaching enquiries: https://www.supportherstrength.com Episode Chapters [00:00] When the Uniform Comes Off — cold open on identity and the question retirement brings [06:33] Welcome to Healthy Mind, Healthy Life — show intro and guest introduction [07:26] What It Costs Internally to Be the Strong One — the hidden weight of the job [09:50] What Outsiders Get Wrong About Women in the Fire Service — misconceptions and realities [10:54] The Unspoken Rules Women Learn Fast — culture, emotions, and surviving as the other [12:25] Proving Yourself to Yourself — the truth beneath the external performance [13:50] Loneliness at the Top — being the only one who looks like you in the room [15:40] Identity Collapse After Retirement — what nobody tells you is coming     Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PM - Send me a message on PodMatch DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik Disclaimer: This episode is produced for educational and informational purposes only. All views expressed by the guest are their personal opinions alone and do not represent the views of the host or Healthy Mind by Avik™. The Network does not verify, endorse, or assume responsibility for any guest statements. Nothing in this episode constitutes medical, legal, financial, or professional advice, please consult a qualified professional before making any decisions. Listeners are encouraged to engage critically and independently with all content do not consume blindly. Use this content as a starting point for your own reflection and research, not as a substitute for professional guidance. Third-party content is referenced under fair use for informational purposes only. Guest speakers are solely responsible for their own statements. If you have concerns about any content, please contact us here By listening, you acknowledge and accept this disclaimer in full. Read detailed disclaimer here. Healthy Mind By Avik™️ is a global platform redefining mental health as a necessity, not a luxury. Born during the pandemic, it's become a sanctuary for healing, growth, and mindful living. Hosted by Avik Chakraborty, storyteller, survivor, and wellness advocate. With over 6500+ episodes and 200K+ global listeners, we unite voices, break stigma, and build a world where every story matters.

In this conversation, Rachael discusses her journey as a retired lieutenant paramedic and her role as the incoming president of Women in Fire. She shares insights into the organization's history, mission, and the importance of advocating for women's issues in the fire service. The discussion covers various topics, including the unique environment of Women in Fire conferences, the significance of proper PPE, and the ongoing efforts in women's health and fitness. Rachael emphasizes the need for collaboration and mentorship within the fire service, highlighting the organization's commitment to improving the experiences of women firefighters.    

The job will take as much from you as you let it. In Part 1, Joff Fierro opens up about life: working at a busy station, chasing fitness, riding the highs of competition, and dealing with the burnout that came from trying to carry Fire Athlete for too long. This is a real conversation about staying driven without getting crushed by the weight of the mission.What You'll Learn:How burnout can sneak up on firefighters who care the mostWhy a strong crew culture makes it easier to stay fit and stay readyWhat Hyrox gave Joff that traditional training did notWhy online criticism in the fire service wears people down faster than we admitHow to remember there are still solid firefighters out there doing good workIf you're a firefighter who is trying to stay motivated, stay fit, and not let the job grind you into the dirt, this one's for you.Support the show

Send us Fan MailThis episode isn't just a pep talk—it's a blueprint for those who want to stay passionate, competent, and connected. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned veteran, you'll get practical tips on making your career meaningful and how to love this job every day, despite its challenges.If you've ever wondered how to be a better leader, help your brothers and sisters, or simply keep the fire alive in your soul, this is your must-listen. It's about finding purpose in the everyday chaos and deeply appreciating the extraordinary life of a firefighter.Firefighters, leaders, and anyone committed to service—listen now. It might just change the way you see your job and your brothers and sisters.Email me at 3pointFirefighter@Gmail.ComCheck out our Facebook Page 3 point Firefighter Podcasthttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560769894306YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAv_hMC8vxrurhIunXtaJXg3 PFF Merchhttps://3-point-firefighter.printify.me/products#JakeBarnes,#3Pointfirefighter