The Standard: Recent Episodes
Craig Stalowy & Tom Johnson
Standard Issue: Fake fire departments, fire engine doughnuts, and cops returning to high schools.…that’s what’s currently going on in public safety news!
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TIMESTAMPS
(00:00) Fake Fire Departments
(08:34) Firefighters Like Doughnuts Too
(11:28) We Need Cops In Schools
We’re going back to January 2018 when we spoke to Brian Olson with Eagle (ID) Fire Department.
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TIMESTAMPS
(0:00) Brothers In Battle
(6:15) Passion For Search
(19:30) Creating Buy-In
(24:30) Starting Strength
(33:30) Chaplain Duty
We’re going back to June 2017 when we talked to Mark vonAppen, a Captain with Palo Alto (CA) Fire Department and the man behind Fully Involved.
Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!
TIMESTAMPS
(0:00) So I'm Ready
(8:00) Passing The Torch
(13:00) Tough Conversations
(20:00) Fitness As A Foundation
Standard Issue: Volunteer arson, Subway for life, manatee orgies, and flagpole javelin.…that’s what’s currently going on in public safety news!
Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!
Get your free gift at Drinklmnt.com/thestandard
TIMESTAMPS
(00:00) Start Your Own Fires
(04:28) Subway...Eat Not So Fresh
(10:24) Manatee Orgy
(15:21) Face Full Of Freedom
We’re going back to April 2019 when we talked to Ben Shultz, a veteran firefighter with West Palm Beach (FL) Fire Rescue.
Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!
TIMESTAMPS
(0:00) Every Second Counts
(13:00) Lightweight Concept
(17:00) Fitness As A Prerequisite
(21:00) Tryouts For Truck Companies
(24:45) Training With A Clock
Standard Issue: Grand Theft Auto for kids, selling soap for drugs, how to fight a bear, and AI first responders.…that’s what’s currently going on in public safety news!
Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!
Get your free gift at Drinklmnt.com/thestandard
TIMESTAMPS
(0:00) Grand Theft Auto For Kids
(9:48) Soap For Sale
(19:20) Bear Fight
(25:08) AI First Responders
Craig describes his experience with depression and how Ketamine therapy and Polyvagal Theory saved his life.
Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!
Having anxiety or depression? Here are some resources:
The Polyvagal Theory by Stephen Porges
Consciousness Medicine by Françoise Bourzat
Ten Percent Happier Podcast - Deb Dana Episode
Tim Ferriss Podcast #625
https://responderstrong.org/
https://mindspadenver.com/
https://www.cfhtrust.com/behavioral/
TIMESTAMPS
(0:00) Depression & PTSD
(5:34) Medications
(13:06) What Is Ketamine?
(16:04) Polyvagal Theory
(44:24) Talk Therapy Versus Medications
Standard Issue: Don't get high on your own supply, fire engine strippers, and firefighters in hot water.…that’s what’s currently going on in public safety news!
Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!
Get your free gift at Drinklmnt.com/thestandard
TIMESTAMPS
(0:00) Don't Get High On Your Own Supply
(12:35) Fire Engine Strippers
(31:30) Firefighters In Hot Water
shorts #inspiration #purposeful #passion #life #change 🔥#fire #firefighter #fireservice #firemen #firelife #sapeurpompier #firerescue #firefighters #volunteerfirefighter #fireservice #firefighterlife #firefightersofinstagram #firefighting
How do you get a job in the fire service? Are you wondering if/when you should promote?
Wake Work & Win by subscribing to our podcast and joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!
Get your free gift at Drinklmnt.com/thestandard
TIMESTAMPS
(3:20) If You Want To Be A Firefighter
(15:20) The Interview
(17:52) Preparing For The Job
(24:44) Benefits & Retirement
(26:32) Preparing For An Academy
(35:08) When To Promote
We’re going back to September 2021 when we talked more senior man topics in the fire house with Cody McGinnis.
Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!
TIMESTAMPS
(0:00) Shelving The Ego
(5:00) Why People Stay Or Go
(9:00) When To Promote
(18:30) Avoiding Burnout
(26:00) Receiving & Giving Feedback
(33:00) Standing Up For Others
Standard Issue: Gun dreaming, "arms" dealers, jealous flight attendants, and funeral wake-ups…that’s what’s currently going on in public safety news!
Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!
TIMESTAMPS
(0:00) Cuddling With A Gun
(7:45) Ebay Body Parts
(17:00) Break-Up Bombing
(21:00) Coffin Knocking
We’re going back to September 2020 when we spoke to Ross Chapman. Ross is a Lieutenant with Arlington Heights (IL) Fire Department.
Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!
TIMESTAMPS
(0:00) Ross Chapman
(7:00) Path To The Fire Service
(13:30) Backstep To Officer
(20:00) Learning Culture
(31:30) Embracing The Suck
(38:00) Elevated Safety
(46:00) Providing For The Family
Standard Issue: Mis-pronouncements, fire department service calls, stabbing arsonists, scissor smuggling, and 1/2 ton Tammy…that’s what’s currently going on in public safety news!
Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!
TIMSTAMPS
(0:00) Paramedic Mis-Pronouncement
(4:45) Lift Assists & Service Calls
(25:00) Arson With A Knife
(28:30) Scissor Smuggling
(36:00) 860 Pounds To Move
We’re going back to August 2021 when we spoke to Garrett Rice. Garrett is a Battalion Chief with The Colony (TX) Fire Department.
Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!
TIMESTAMPS
(0:00) Culture At The Colony
(5:30) Blue Collar Chiefs
(9:30) Effect Of Hands On Training
(18:30) Biggest Challenges for Chief Officers
(26:30) First On Scene
(34:45) Chiefs That Say Yes
Standard Issue: PD chokeholds, head-scratching promotions, no confidence votes, cat ladies, and slurpee investigations…that’s what’s currently going on in public safety news!
Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!
TIMESTAMPS
(0:00) Miami PD Chokehold
(9:20) Promoting With A Record
(15:50) No Confidence Vote
(21:15) Crazy Cat Lady Down
(27:40) Slurpee Intel
We’re going back to November 2017 when we spoke to Engineer Zac Varela. This episode has been one of our most popular ones, as Zac doesn't hold back on his thoughts on what an engineer should be.
Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!
TIMESTAMPS
(0:00) Next Level Engineering
(8:15) Staying In Shape
(16:00) Train To Win
(20:00) Tough Conversations
(25:30) Age Is Just A Number
(32:45) Married With Children
Americans are having less and less children. Is it because kids ruin their lives? Do they regret not having children later?
Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!
TIMESTAMPS
(0:00) Women Regretting Not Having Children
(10:30) Men Lonely Without Family
(20:00) A State of Worry And Pain
(26:30) Kids Add Years To Your Life
Standard Issue: Shower shenanigans, dodgeball gone wrong, and statue extrications…that’s what’s currently going on in public safety news!
Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!
TIMESTAMPS
(0:00) Poop In The Shower
(9:30) Dodgeball Gone Wrong
(16:40) Statue Extrication
We’re going back to July 2021 when we spoke to Bob Lobascio. Bob is a leadership coach with over 20 years of experience in building and driving sales organizations to achieve and exceed challenging revenue objectives.
Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!
TIMESTAMPS
(0:00) Bob Lobascio
(1:30) Good Vs. Bad Leaders
(10:50) Successful Teams & Relationships
(20:15) 360 Evaluations
(25:45) Generational Leading
(34:30) Leave - Or Stay & Fight
(39:30) Confronting Poor Leadership
(48:00) Listeners' Questions
Standard Issue: Mummified spouses, student choke holds, lost at sea with ketchup, and the dangers of plastics and water…that’s what’s currently going on in public safety news!
Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!
TIMESTAMPS
(0:00) St. Patrick
(3:15) Mummies & Hoarding
(13:40) Math-Kwon-Do
(20:30) Castaway With Ketchup
(27:00) "Tainted" Plastics
(32:00) Water Kills
We're going back to April 2018 when we spoke to Curt Isakson, a 33 year veteran of the fire service and currently a Battalion Chief for Escambia County (FL) Fire Rescue. He spent 9 years with the Pensacola Fire Department prior to joining ECFR, and is the man behind County Fire Tactics.
Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!
TIMESTAMPS
(0:00) Urban Vs. Rural Tactics
(5:30) Focusing On The Basics
(12:00) Staying Engaged As A Chief
(17:45) Preserving Culture
(25:30) Influencing Change
(30:00) Practicing How You Play
(37:30) It's Worth The Risk
Standard Issue: Healthcare gratuity, visiting Hell, nursing to death, and lockout assists…that’s what’s currently going on in public safety news!Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!TIMESTAMPS(0:00) Healthcare Gratuity(10:00) Visiting Hell(14:30) Nursing To Death(17:50) Lockout Assists
We’re going back to October 2017 when we spoke to Jason Hoevelmann, the Fire Chief of Florissant Valley Fire Protection District (MO). He is the author of No Exceptions Leadership: The Leadership Handbook and is the man behind EngineHouseTraining.com.Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!TIMESTAMPS(0:00) Jason Hoevelmann(6:45) Courage(10:55) Tough Conversations(18:00) Chasing The Kinks(22:45) Prioritizing The Day(30:00) Aggressive On All Calls(34:50) Staying Fit As A Chief(42:45) Drilling On The Streets
Kyle Carnohan and Chris Flores are firefighters that have created a community that focuses on men taking ownership of their lives and becoming Super Human Fathers.Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!TIMESTAMPS(0:00) To Train Or Not To Train…In Gear(10:00) Adapting Physically As We Age(13:00) Instilling Grit In Your Kids(19:30) Importance Of Fathers(29:00) Follow Through & Remain Consistent(35:00) Going Bananas…For No Reason(43:30) Raising Daughters(51:00) Parenting Scenarios(1:00:00) Getting Trolled
Standard Issue: Unidentified male objects, bike lane rage, burnt food and premature pronouncements…that’s what’s currently going on in public safety news!Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!TIMESTAMPS(0:00) Unidentified Male Objects(5:00) Bike Lane “Karen”(11:00) Burnt Food…At The Firehouse(15:10) Pronounced Dead But Alive
Dr. Darryl Stickel is the founder of Trust Unlimited and is an executive coach with over 20 years of experience focused on trust. His PhD “Building Trust in Hostile Environments” from Duke University established his unique and practical approach to building trust.Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!TIMESTAMPS(0:00) Low Morale(6:00) Leading Now Vs. Then(17:00) Cancel Culture(24:00) Path To Vulnerability(27:15) Guide Dog Companionship(32:45) Using Different Vocabulary(40:00) Trust At Home(43:30) Trust Yourself(56:00) Asking For Help
Standard Issue: Sewer swimming, anatomy quiz, hijacked ambulances and egg grenades…that’s what’s currently going on in public safety news!Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!TIMESTAMPS(0:00) Sewer Swimming(8:15) Know Your Organs(19:00) Hijacked Ambulance(26:00) Grenade Or Egg?
We’re going back to February 2019 when we spoke to Dave Hageman, a Captain with Denver (CO) Fire Department. Dave holds a Systems Engineering degree from West Point, a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership from Johns Hopkins University, and a Ph.D. in Performance Psychology.Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!TIMESTAMPS(0:00) West Point Lessons(5:30) Promoting Buy-in(8:00) Fire Service Mission(15:00) Unaware Unable Unwilling(20:45) Life Lessons Through Sports(27:00) Balancing Home Life(32:00) Choosing The Fire Service(35:00) Bringing Ideas Back To Your Department
Brian Sargeant is the Development & Communications Manager for Colorado Fourteeners Initiative. The organization’s mission is to protect and preserve the natural integrity of Colorado’s 54 14,000–foot peaks — the “Fourteeners” — through active stewardship and public education.Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!TIMESTAMPS(0:00) Working For Patagonia(4:45) Colorado 14ers Initiative(8:00) Working At 14,000 Ft(12:00) Increased Trail System Traffic(21:15) Packing For A 14er(25:00) Wildlife & Weather(34:00) Owning A 14er(42:30) Initiative Funding(50:00) Completing All 14ers
Standard Issue: Murder rates, training ground mishaps, phantom drivers, and smoking weed everyday…that’s what’s currently going on in public safety news!Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!TIMESTAMPS(0:00) 700 Murders Per Year(10:00) Catching Babies…Or Not(15:00) Lake Diving…In A Car(21:30) “Smoke Weed Everyday”
We’re going back to March 2019 when we spoke to Jim Hensel of Mayhem Mindset. We discuss readiness, preparation, and defining your own personal code.Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!TIMESTAMPS(0:00) The Beginnings Of Purpose(4:00) Writing Your Own Code(8:15) Surrounded By High Performers(14:00) Capturing 80% Of The Audience(17:00) Ready Vs. Prepared(20:45) Comfort Is Not The Answer(29:30) Foundation Of A Fit Human(32:45) Financial Mindset(37:00) Perspective Through Adversity
Brent Fenton (aka Firefighter Fenton) is a Fire Captain in Arizona and a social media force when it comes to shedding light on the realities — and the absurdities — in today’s fire service. “My Knee Hurts Now” and “I’m Salty And I Know It” are two of his best works.Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!TIMESTAMPS(0:00) The Mustache & The First Parody(5:30) Fire Service Pushback(12:00) The Best Parodies(14:00) Fighting The Funny Guy Stigma(17:45) Keynote Speaking(22:00) Humor In Today’s Fire Service(29:00) Bullying & Victim Mentality(36:45) Fire Department Coffee(45:00) Camp Courage
It’s the best and worst jobs within various industries and professions…and also when each of us met the POTUS.Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!TIMESTAMPS(0:00) Meeting the POTUS(8:15) Best & Worst Jobs…In A Restaurant(12:05) …In A High School(15:40) …On A Construction Site(20:00) …In A Hospital(21:15) …At A Car Dealership(22:30) …On A Fire Department(25:00) …On A Sports Team(27:15) …In A Band(29:35) …In Social Media
Dr. Jacob Fletcher owns Well Beings Chiropractic and has been practicing since 2010. He tailors his practice around reducing pain and improving recovery from injuries, and utilizing chiropractic care as a way to induce healing without the use of drugs or surgery.Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!TIMESTAMPS(0:00) Dr. Jacob Fletcher(3:30) Growing Up With Chiro(7:30) Chiropractic Vs. Traditional Medicine(13:00) What Makes A Good Chiropractor(24:30) Athletes, Injuries, & Recovery(32:00) Discipline & Habits(39:15) Psychedelics & Ayahuasca(50:30) Cold Plunging
We’re going back to September 2018 when we spoke to Chief Scott Thompson of The Colony (TX) Fire Department. Morale, culture, member retention and training are all covered in this episode.Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!TIMESTAMPS(0:00) Scott Thompson(2:45) 100% Retention(8:00) Blue Collar Buy-In(11:30) Engine & Truck Response Models(18:00) What Do The Citizens Really Want(23:00) Mentors & Leaders
Standard Issue: Professional courtesy, jumping cruise ships, fast food birthing, and walking home alone in Waco…that’s what’s currently going on in public safety news!Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!TIMESTAMPS(0:00) New Podcast Studio(1:05) Professional Courtesy(6:00) Jumping Cruise Ships(17:20) Fast Food Birthing(24:30) Walking Home Alone In Waco
How do you differentiate healthy habits from addictions? Are all addictions bad? Moderation and consistency may be the answer.Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!TIMESTAMPS(0:00) Addicted To Competition(4:15) Addicted To Fitness(6:15) Nicotine, Coffee, Alcohol, THC(10:00) Careers & Relationships(13:00) Addictive Personalities
It’s a candid conversation that’s all about marriages and the relationship journey, and how true love will work hard to sustain it.Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!TIMESTAMPS(0:00) Anniversaries(2:15) Parenting(6:00) Marriage Is Work(11:00) Knowing Yourself(17:15) Reasons For Quitting(24:00) Looking To The Future
We’re going back to August 2018 when we spoke to JP Dinnell. JP is a former U.S. Navy SEAL and now a leadership instructor and speaker with Echelon Front.Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!TIMESTAMPS(0:00) JP Dinnell(0:25) Realistic Training & Pushback(7:55) The 30-Year Problem Employee(10:15) Who Do You Follow(13:15) Having A Winning Mindset(16:10) Lead By Example & Role Models(23:20) From Rafting To BUDS(28:40) Changing The Culture
Standard Issue: ER emergency, cobra killer, powerpoint porn and hospice taxidermy…that’s what’s currently going on in public safety news!Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer!TIMESTAMPS(0:00) Why So Serious?(2:35) ER Charge Nurse Calls 911(20:45) Cobra Killed By 8 Year-Old(28:45) Junior High Porn Presentation(32:15) Hospice Taxidermy
Jon Loomer is an entrepreneur who is recognized as one of the leading experts in Facebook ads and marketing. He spends the majority of the rest of his time coaching competitive youth baseball. Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has … Continue reading Ad Coach & Dad Coach →
Sneak Peak Wednesday! Listen to this bonus episode found only on our Patreon. It’s a recap of our hands-on training class last month in Denver. Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer! TIMESTAMPS () The Morning After () … Continue reading Instructor 101 →
John Hernandez is the firefighter behind SD Fire Brigade, an Instagram page that pairs humor with all the things we experience in the fire service. Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer! TIMESTAMPS () From The Navy To … Continue reading SD Fire Brigade →
Standard Issue: Tattoos, artificial intelligence, helmet laws and fire ground accountability…that’s what’s currently going on in public safety news! Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and everything else The Standard Community has to offer! TIMESTAMPS () Tattoos & Station Logos () A.I. Robots () Bikers Without … Continue reading Standard Issue 11.11.22 →
Greg Williams and Brian Marren join us to talk about situational awareness and the evolving challenges of working within the public safety industry. Their company, Arcadia Cognerati, provides top-level training in the areas of human behavior and pattern recognition. Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes, video content, and … Continue reading Head On A Swivel →
Robb Wolf is a former research biochemist and 2X New York Times/Wall Street Journal Best-selling author of The Paleo Solution and Wired To Eat. He co-founded the 1st and 4th CrossFit affiliate gyms in the world, and is the co-founder of DrinkLMNT Electrolytes. Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get access to more episodes and everything else … Continue reading Feelin Salty →
Lacey Henderson is a Paralympian, Speaker, Model and Sport and Performance Psychology Professional. She was diagnosed with Synovial Sarcoma at the age of 9 that resulted in the amputation of her right leg. She and her father, TJ Henderson, join us to talk about the journey. Wake Work & Win by joining our Patreon. Get … Continue reading Picked Last In Gym Class →
Standard Issue: Poop snooping, graveyards, and half-naked drive-bys…that’s what’s currently going on in public safety news!
It’s all about fatherhood and relationships with Larry Hagner. Larry is a podcast host, author, and founder of The Dad Edge. Find more episodes like this one including video content by joining our Patreon community.
From marriage to parenting to getting old, we talk about the realities of all of these…with a little humor. Find more episodes like this one including video content by joining our Patreon community.
Matt Green has been working in law enforcement for over 18 years and has spent some of that time as a K-9 officer. We discuss how the job has changed over his career and what it’s like to train and work with a police dog.
Standard Issue: Ambulance fires, cemeteries, and fire department morale…that’s what’s currently going on in public safety news!
We recap the 100 mile trail race in Colorado that has over 15,000 feet of elevation gain. Craig crossed the finish line in just over 29 hours.
Bring your gear, bring your gloves and hood, bring your SCBA…all of it! Two full days of fire skills and camaraderie. Come train with us October 22nd & 23rd in Denver, CO! Register for the class by clicking here.
Olivia Mead is the founder/CEO of Yoga For First Responders and collaborated with The Standard during our 24 hour H.O.T. (hands-on training) class at Portland Firemanship in 2020. YFFR is a non-profit that is changing the way first responders and military personnel train their minds and bodies. Hear more from Olivia including her entrepreneurial and … Continue reading H.O.T. Yoga →
What makes people perform at the highest levels? What causes others to quit? How do you find a job that doesn’t feel like a job? Find more episodes like this one and extra content by joining our Patreon community.
It’s all things mental health with All Clear Foundation and its founder, Rhonda Kelly. From stress to anxiety to relationships to suicide, we touch on various aspects of mental health pertaining to the first responder community. For access to mental health resources such as those discussed on the show, follow the links below. Relationship Retreats … Continue reading Stress And Support →
Have we oversold the college experience? Is it worth all the debt? Do we just not want to have a job that requires risk or hard work?
One of our Patreon members wrote us asking for advice on how to deal with a crew leader who is not setting the best example with his actions.
Trevor Gordon is a firefighter with Sacramento (CA) Metro Fire District and the founder of Coffee Table Tactics, a social media page that is focused on west coast style firefighting tactics.
Standard Issue: Next door bombmakers and dogs suspected of arson…that’s what’s currently going on in public safety news! Find more episodes like this one and extra content by joining our Patreon community.
How do you prepare for a fire academy and what can you expect as a recruit? Listen to our most recent Patreon episode and find out!
Zac Varela is an engineer with East Metro (CO) Fire Rescue. Back in 2017, Zac came on our podcast for Episode 018 (Engineering For Leaders), and returns to the show to talk more engineer shop. Head over to our Patreon to catch our bonus episode with Zac as well as more episodes and exclusive content.
Jarred “Bear” Fiorda is a MMA fighter and the founder of Free MMA Gyms, a non-profit martial arts gym that is free for anyone. Bear is back in the octagon on Friday July 8th for the Fury FC Prelims.
Zack Golditch was in high school when he attended The Dark Knight at Century 16 Theaters in Aurora 10 years ago. After surviving a gunshot wound to the neck, he went on to play college football and spent some time in the NFL before becoming a firefighter.
Instructors, Mentors, Leaders…Do we listen to them when they are loud? Are they in control when they raise their voice? Are there circumstances that excuse the dressing-down of other members?
Standard Issue: Firehouse drug rings, gloomy days in Cleveland, ambulance active shooter, and hidden cameras…that’s what’s currently going on in public safety news! Find more episodes like this one and extra content by joining our Patreon community.
Outward Bound USA is the leading provider of outdoor education programs that allow young people to explore their personal potential, since 1962. Ben Fickett was the Director of Admissions for Colorado Outward Bound School, and we talk to him about how he went from New Hampshire to college football in Utah to his current sales … Continue reading Outward Bound →
We’re going to back to January 2021 when Cody McGinnis came on our show and discussed what it means to be the “Senior Man” and the responsibilities that come with the position.
We have to stay in the moment when parenting our children. Raising kids goes by fast, so it’s important to be intentional with our time surrounding them. Brandon Douglas, a Standard Patreon member, talks about an experience of his when he realized he needed to be more intentional.
Sneak Peak Wednesday! Listen to this bonus episode found only on our Patreon. For more content like this, visit The Standard to join! Is being a firefighter what you thought it would be? And for those not in the fire service, what do you think the fire department’s responsibilities are as a taxpaying citizen? We … Continue reading Spread Too Thin →
Chris Alstrin is a film director and cinematographer who has worked for such brands as Disney, Nike, National Geographic, and Red Bull. We talk about climbing and what it’s like to be on film sets like ‘Free Solo’ and how storytelling through a lens became his passion.
Julian Serrano is a firefighter with Palm Beach County (FL) Fire Rescue. He founded Prepared To Fight Fire and is a Florida Smoke Diver. We discuss mentorship, mindset, and the Leadville 100 Ultramarathon.
What makes a good instructor, coach, mentor, or teacher? It starts with leading out front. Matt Chan is back to discuss his new role as a fire academy instructor.
Drunk in command, puma rescues, and dick weights…that’s what’s currently going on in public safety news!
Kate Stalowy and Cherie Chan join us to talk about relationships and marriage. We discuss what it’s like to be married to a firefighter, including the challenges of the schedule and the stresses that result from some of the things we experience on the job.
Matt Jones played professional baseball for seven years, spending time as a catcher in the Diamondbacks, Blue Jays, and Angels organizations. He played as high as AAA and retired in 2021. Matt now owns and operates One6 Performance – a training facility out of Colorado – that is focused on the development of youth, high … Continue reading Professional Perspective →
Jason McCarthy founded GoRuck with the purpose of not only bridging the gap between civilian and military life, but also to provide a community centered around fitness and high standards. GoRuck is also hosting the Sandlot Jax fitness festival in April in Jacksonville, Florida. Find out more here.
Joe Falcone is a Captain with Delray Beach (FL) Fire Rescue. He competes in various ultra races every year and we talk about the benefits of competing, and also the challenges of having to balance marriage and family with competition. We also discuss aspects of the fire service such as peer support, retention and morale, … Continue reading Ultra Fireman →
Matt and Cherie Chan join us to talk about all things personal and professional, including fitness, business, firefighting, and marriage. Matt is a firefighter with North Metro (CO) Fire Rescue and he and Cherie are the faces of TrainFTW.
Whether you are an athlete, a parent, an entrepreneur, or a leader in any realm, you must have passion in order to be successful. Passion is a trait that is found universally across all industries, and with passion, not much else can distract us from achieving our goals. By embracing the daily grind, regular competition, … Continue reading You vs. You →
“Everybody wants to eat, but few will hunt.” Drew Beech and Joey Bowen are the founders of Few Will Hunt, an apparel company founded on the dignity of hard work. We talk about their Philly roots, how they got their start in 2017, and where they are now.
Do you look to phone it in when you aren’t feeling 100% or when things aren’t going your way? Is what is standing in your way just an excuse? Winners don’t care about excuses. They just keep forging ahead, even when it’s uphill and wind in their faces.
What does it mean to provide for your family? How does a victim mindset prevent people from reaching their goals? We discuss these topics as well as mentoring, role models, blue collar lifestyles, and other things that go into being a man.
Jess d’Arbonne is a managing editor of The Motley Fool and co-host of Bitches Get Riches, a blog and podcast dedicated to helping others with financial planning and money-based decisions. From student loan debt to credit scores to savings accounts to real estate, we talk about it all.
Do you define success based solely on the outcome? Will you only be successful once you reach the finish line? Success can be found in both the wins and losses, depending on our approach and perspective. Visit THE STANDARD to find out more about our mission.
If we want to take charge of our lives or careers, one of the highest priorities we must have is a healthy diet and lifestyle. Accountability starts with honest conversations about where we are at right now and where we want to go.
Michael Easter is a leading voice on how humans can integrate modern science and evolutionary wisdom for improved health, meaning, and performance in life and at work. He is the author of The Comfort Crisis, a bestseller. He is a professor in the journalism department at UNLV and he’s talked about his work on the world’s … Continue reading The Comfort Crisis →
Lee Vidal and Paco Ciocarlan are firefighters with East Metro Fire Rescue and compete in the firefighter combat challenge with the A-Town Combat Team. Last week, the team placed 1st at Nationals. They will be competing at the World Combat Challenge Championships in Florida next month. We talk about competition and the benefits of physical … Continue reading Combat Ready →
Our podcast name has changed, but our standards are still the same. So what is The Standard? Listen and find out.
Episode 074 – Aaron Foster has been a firefighter for 22 years, with the last 17 years being in Washington D.C. He’s been investing in real estate for 16 years and owns a small woodworking company based in College Park (MD). Aaron has completed dozens of real estate deals that range from tax liens and … Continue reading Firefighter Finances →
Episode 073 – Garrett Rice is a Battalion Chief with The Colony (TX) Fire Department, and he is a chief that knows how to say yes. He is also the founder of Fire Craft Training. We talk about morale and retention and their correlation to a department’s ability to remain focused on the true mission … Continue reading White Helmet But Still Blue Collar →
Wednesday Burn 023 – Jen Piper wrote a letter to the fire service late last year which detailed her frustrations with the overall fitness level of our profession. We published her letter as part of Burn Episode 016. We talk to her about why she wrote the letter and possible solutions to her and many … Continue reading Frustration With Fitness Standards →
Episode 072 – Robert Lobascio is a leadership coach with over 20 years of experience in building and driving sales organizations to achieve and exceed challenging revenue objectives. Robert was also a contributor to our latest book, The Backstep. We talk about the superior/subordinate relationship and how to best navigate different styles of leadership. We … Continue reading Navigating Weak Leadership →
Wednesday Burn 022 – You just went and recharged your batteries at a regional fire conference or a hands-on-training class. Now it’s back to reality at your own department or firehouse where others don’t share the same level of passion. So how do you bring your knowledge and energy back and spread it effectively? FTFF … Continue reading Implementing Change →
Wednesday Burn 021 – The traditional riding position of the formal fire service leader is in the right front seat, but what if you could lead from any position? We believe you can. We discuss our new book, The Backstep, and why a back seat leader is necessary for any crew to perform at a … Continue reading What Is A Backstep →
Episode 071 – Dr. Craig Wetterer is a licensed clinical psychologist who has worked in several different practice settings that include correctional facilities, a police and public safety practice, neuropsychological and forensic assessment clinics, and a maximum security forensic psychiatric hospital, where he currently conducts forensic psychological assessments for the State of Nevada. We discuss … Continue reading PTSD Explained →
Episode 070 – Jeff Rothmeier is currently a firefighter with Milwaukee FD after spending over a decade with St. Paul FD. He is also a contributing author of Fire Engineering and Fire Rescue magazines and the founder of Maneuver Fire Response. Jeff talks about transitioning to firefighting after military service, why he left one fire … Continue reading When To Change Departments →
Wednesday Burn 020 – There will always be apathy in the fire service, but how do you overcome this and make change for the better? Where do you start?
Episode 069 – This is a story about a firefighter that went to work one day with only two children, but came home with four. Richard Jett takes us through the night of October 24, 2017, when one call changed his life. Richard serves as a Master Firefighter with Lenexa (KS) Fire Department. He has … Continue reading Family Born Out Of Tragedy →
Wednesday Burn 019 – If we want to be professionals, we have to be relentless in our training as tactical athletes. At times that may mean training through pain. What happens if you get hurt on the fire ground, will you just quit? Audio played in this episode from the book “Relentless: From Good to … Continue reading Relentless Training →
Episode 068 – The final part of our three-part episode series featuring ‘Senior Man’ Cody McGinnis with East Metro Fire Rescue. We talk about why people leave departments now but not so much two to three decades ago, and the importance of standing up for yourself, your crew or your partner when the line gets … Continue reading The Senior Man Part III →
Wednesday Burn 018 – Turnover within a fire department is a result of a corporate-like culture. Corporations that have a continuous revolving door of employees are focused on the bottom dollar and simply looking good, not being good. But to actually be good means that your actions and decisions are based on not only what … Continue reading The Corporate Culture →
Episode 067 – We begin this episode by discussing faith and religion and their unique applications to each individual in society. We talk about purpose, and also about stereotyping and the views surrounding it both then and now. John holds a PhD in Theology, Philosophy, and Cultural Theory from the University of Denver/Iliff School of … Continue reading Faith and Religion →
Episode 066 – Cody McGinnis is back on the show to talk about a probationary firefighter’s first day and how it can go one of two ways. We also talk about creating a station culture that is welcoming to firefighters of all skill levels, and the importance of developing trust and relationships within a crew. … Continue reading The Senior Man Part II →
Episode 065 – Jim Moss is the author of Firefighter Success and Firefighter Functional Fitness, and was also a guest on Episode 004 of our podcast. He interviews John Spera on his Firefighter Success Podcast (Episode 006) and they discuss John’s recent decision to join South Metro Fire Rescue (CO) and be the new guy … Continue reading Firefighter Success Podcast →
Wednesday Burn 017 – Listen to some highlights from Brothers In Battle’s GRABS Podcast (Episode 46) with Nick Ledin, who interviews FTFF’s Tom Johnson. Click here to listen to the full episode. FTFF Lead Yourself is sponsored by Shur-Sales & Marketing, Inc.
Wednesday Burn 016 – Sometimes perspective can change everything. Do we as firefighters realize our responsibility when we step on a fire truck? Is our purpose only centered around our own comforts and routines? One firefighter’s wife has issues with the current state of a large portion of the fire service, and she’s not alone. … Continue reading A Wife’s Letter to the Fire Service →
Episode 064 – Sir Winston Churchill once said, “To each there comes in their lifetime a special moment when they are figuratively tapped on the shoulder and offered the chance to do a very special thing, unique to them and fitted to their talents. What a tragedy if that moment finds them unprepared or unqualified … Continue reading Your Finest Hour →
Episode 063 – Ben Adams is a man who knows how to get back up after being knocked down. He was left to pick up the pieces and be the sole provider and caretaker of his children after his wife filed for divorce. He is also no stranger to persevering through hard times, as he … Continue reading There Is No Plan B →
Episode 062 – Ross Chapman has 17 years in the fire service and 13 of these as a career firefighter. He is a Lieutenant with the Arlington Heights (IL) Fire Department and is assigned to Tower 1. He is a member of the MABAS Division 1 Technical Rescue Team, a Rescue Squad Officer with Illinois … Continue reading How To Keep Winning →
Wednesday Burn 015 – In another clip from the Mind Over Matter podcast, we discuss what elements contribute to forming a well-rounded firefighter. It should be no surprise that physical fitness is discussed, but there is certainly more needed in order to be great on the fire ground.
Episode 061 – Aaron Oatley is a Battalion Chief with Boca Raton (FL) Fire Rescue. In 2007, Aaron’s 6-year-old daughter passed away as a victim of a murder-suicide. Recovering from such a devastating loss seems insurmountable, but Aaron lives every day forward making his daughter proud. This is a story of a father and daughter … Continue reading When Everything Is Taken From You →
Wednesday Burn 014 – We went on the Mind Over Matter Podcast with Jimmy Gross a few weeks back and discussed how to deal with becoming a target within your own department or within the fire service. And we also revealed the “shortcut” to creating buy-in with others.
Episode 060 – We welcome back Frank Viscuso to our podcast for a second episode. He first appeared on our show in 2017 (Episode 003).This time, we discuss the hurdles when promoting change within your own organization, and how credibility plays a major role in whether or not that change is achieved. We also talk … Continue reading Change And Credibility →
Wednesday Burn 013 – Imagine the possibilities when you don’t fear stepping outside the comfort zone in training. You may surprise yourself, or better yet you may open the door for others to do the same.
Episode 058 – At the 2020 Firemanship Conference in February, Fit To Fight Fire took part in instructing a 24 hour H.O.T. class (Developing High Performance). Our goal as a cadre was to not only lead the class, but also experience it ourselves. We believe that you can’t tell someone to do something that you … Continue reading The Gift Of Suffering →
Wednesday Burn 012 – FTFF’s Craig Stalowy was a deconditioned firefighter in 2005, and he had a decision to make: continue on the path of being overweight with an inability to live up to the oath, or make a lifestyle change and never look back. This burn episode is a short clip from our “Mindset” … Continue reading From Fat to Fit →
Wednesday Burn 011 – On June 9, 2019, Todd Mahoney competed in the Madison Ironman 70.3. During the swim portion, he was found unresponsive in the water and passed away two days later. Todd is survived by his wife and three sons. Eric DeMaria is a Lieutenant in the Denver Metro Area and has competed … Continue reading Tragedy at Ironman →
Episode 057 – Cody McGinnis and Nick Fox are both firefighters with East Metro (CO) Fire Rescue and epitomize the ‘senior man’ in the firehouse. Cody, with the help of Nick, has created the Mile High Firefighter’s Conference, which has been responsible for bringing quality training to the Rocky Mountain region since 2017. In this … Continue reading The Senior Man Part I →
Episode 056 – Brad Miller is a Battalion Chief with Chandler (AZ) Fire Department and has been a career firefighter for over 29 years. His son, Jordon, has also been with CFD for 9 years. They talk about the dynamics of their relationship now that they are in the same profession and Brad discusses his … Continue reading Father & Son Firefighters →
Episode 055 – On August 20, 2018, Officer Cory Sack of the Cherry Hills Village Police Department responded to a home invasion where he was shot multiple times. Six surgeries and sixteen months later, Cory has returned to the line. Cory takes us through the night of the shooting and also his life and career … Continue reading Cherry Hills Ambush →
Episode 054 -In Part 2 of our episode series featuring generational firefighters, Bill (27 years) and Ben (3 years) of East Metro (CO) Fire Rescue talk about the need for competition and camaraderie, and the role these have played in their relationship. The two discuss humility, the importance of surrounding themselves with better people, and … Continue reading Fire Service Generations Part II →
Wednesday Burn 010 – Craig Stalowy and Jonathan Brumley talk about “God’s Plan” and how it intertwines with the difficult calls that we respond to every day. Listen to more of Jonathan Brumley on Episode 053.
Episode 053 – How do you decide when the organization you work for is the right fit? When do you decide it is time to move on? What is the secret to staying positive and enjoying our time at the firehouse? We answer these questions and also discuss the need to have difficult conversations that … Continue reading Finding The Right Fire Department →
Wednesday Burn 009 – When leaving the firehouse after shift, turning the switch off can be difficult in our line of work. Our identity has to be more than firefighting, as other areas of our lives must help define us, such as family and hobbies. In the end, it comes down to balance.
Episode 052 (Part 2) – In the second of a two part episode, we talk about work/life balance and the challenges that come with managing our own personal and professional goals with the needs and wants of the family. We also discuss the non-negotiable qualities we require for those that are a part of our … Continue reading Path To A Winning Mindset Part II →
Episode 052 Xtra – Do we get better at rebounding from negative events as we mature? Do we have a healthier response to adversity when we are older? Ben Norwood talks about how he perceives struggle, and how that perception has enabled him to approach challenges in life much differently than years ago.
Episode 052 (Part 1) – In the first of a two part episode, the FTFF crew discusses mindset with guest Ben Norwood. Ben graduated the EMFR academy in 2015 at the same time he lost his mother to cancer and his wife asked for a divorce, all while raising four children. To graduate at the … Continue reading Path To A Winning Mindset Part I →
Episode 051 – Juliet Draper has been in the fire service for 29 years, and is currently a Training Captain with Colorado Springs Fire Department. Throughout her career, she has put an emphasis on fitness, evidenced by earning a sub-2 minute Combat Challenge time. And she still holds the World Record at 1 minute 48 … Continue reading She’s A World Record Holder →
Episode 050 – Sam & Chris Adams are both firefighters/paramedics with Colorado Springs Fire Dept. and the authors of Life & Death Matters. We spend our time on this episode talking about mentoring, and what character traits make a good mentor. So you’ve invested in your new firefighter and you are committed to his/her success, … Continue reading Life And Death Matters →
Episode 049 – In Part 1 of our 2-part episode series featuring generational firefighters, we talk with Pat & Dave McGrail, who have nearly eight decades of combined experience in the fire service. Before Dave McGrail, there was Dave’s father, Pat. He retired from the Denver Fire Department in 1997 after nearly 42 years of … Continue reading Fire Service Generations Part I →
Episode 048 – Bill Kraus has 27 years with East Metro (CO) Fire Rescue and currently holds the rank of Battalion Chief. He rose through the ranks of Firefighter, Paramedic, Lieutenant, and Captain, holding spots on engine and truck companies, the Training Division, as well as HazMat and Technical Rescue Teams. He will be instructing … Continue reading Leading With Standards →
Episode 047 – Are you struggling to get hands-on training at your department? Are you blaming officers or others around you for the lack of training? Well it’s time to move on from the excuses and just get it done – even if it means you are all alone on the training ground. And if … Continue reading Spare The Excuses →
Episode 046 – Bryan Lynch is a Lieutenant with Colorado Springs Fire Department. Bryan has been a lead instructor for his department’s annual Truck Academy and developed his department’s Ground Ladder and Ventilation Programs. Bryan is also the co-founder of Irons and Ladders LLC. We talk about ‘senior man’ responsibilities when it comes to training … Continue reading Irons And Ladders →
Wednesday Burn 008 – McCall (ID) Fire Rescue Medic 54 & Engine 11 bring us their account of rescuing a victim buried in the rubble following a house explosion on March 17, 2019. Firefighter Jon Metz and Firefighter Jason Beck were first on scene and immediately went into rescue mode. Their efforts were supported by … Continue reading Idaho Victim Rescue →
Episode 045 – Ben Shultz is a firefighter/paramedic with West Palm Beach Fire Rescue. His 15-year career has taken him from southern California to Colorado to Florida, from rural to suburban to urban districts. He has split his time riding the truck, engine, heavy rescue, squad, and medic. Ben has been an instructor with Irons … Continue reading Every Second Counts →
Episode 044 – Jim Hensel is an author, speaker, teacher, and coach. He has served in multiple roles throughout his career including Director of Football Culture and Player Development at the University of Northern Colorado and Tennessee Technological University. He has dedicated his career to helping others define themselves and create personal philosophy, vision, and … Continue reading Mayhem Mindset →
“243 First Responders Commit Suicide Last Year; More Than Died In The Line Of Duty” In 2017, 21 more first responders died by their own hands than those who died in the line of duty. Let that sink in. Adam Woodin shares his struggle with alcoholism, his own thoughts of suicide, and how he got himself … Continue reading Comeback From Addiction →
Wednesday Burn 007 – Does a sub 2 minute Combat time predict with certainty a good performance on the fire ground? Do the fastest times on the day’s WOD transfer over to the fastest times on the fire ground? We burn with Zac Varela (Episode 18) about not over-valuing the clock in training, and getting … Continue reading On The Clock →
Episode 042 – Howard Rinewalt is the Fire Chief of East Montgomery County (TX) Fire Department and Owner of FD Tactics, a Texas based fire training company, which conducts engine and truck company H.O.T. classes as well as a classroom lecture titled “When Seconds Count – We Count Seconds.” He has 15 years with EMCFD and … Continue reading FD Tactics →
Episode 041 – Dave Hageman is a Captain with the Denver (CO) Fire Department. He is a West Point graduate, former Army Captain, and a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He holds a Systems Engineering degree from West Point, a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership from Johns Hopkins University, and is currently conducting research as a Ph.D. … Continue reading Team Dynamics In Firefighting →
Episode 040 – Fit To Fight Fire Podcast meets Refined By Fire Podcast. Stephen Tyler is the host of Refined By Fire, and is a member of Brothers in Battle. He is a backstep firefighter with Eagle (ID) Fire Department. In this episode, the hosts of each podcast interview each other on topics such as the genesis … Continue reading Refined By Fire →
Episode 039 – Gary Lane is a fireman in Northeast Ohio, and has just over two decades of experience. He regularly instructs nationwide and will be at the Firemanship Conference in Portland in February 2019. With humility and humor, Gary takes us through his path in the fire service and how he handles the high and … Continue reading The Book Of Andy →
Episode 038 – Dave LeBlanc is a Deputy Chief with the Harwich (MA) Fire Department. Dave entered the fire service in 1986 as a Call Firefighter with the Dennis Fire Department, and joined HFD in 1993. He writes regularly for Firefighter Nation and much of his material can also be found on Backstep Firefighter. We discuss the … Continue reading Putting The Citizens First →
Wednesday Burn 006 – The wrong way to safety is through inaction and risk avoidance. The right way to safety is through work, and work leads to competence. Enough with the Safety Campaign – we propose the Competence Campaign.
Episode 037 – Matt Chan is a firefighter for North Metro Fire Rescue in suburban Denver, Colorado. His career path is unique in that he temporarily gave up his career as a firefighter to pursue Crossfit at the professional level. He finished 2nd at the 2012 Crossfit Games, and has four Top-10 finishes at the … Continue reading Crossfit Firefighter →
Episode 036 – You were first introduced to Craig Stalowy on Episode 032 (the “Planned Parenthood” episode), but this time we discuss investing in the fire service, what responsibilities the senior man really has when it comes to teaching and mentoring, and the positive effects that an energetic training environment has on a fire company’s … Continue reading Into The Firefighting Profession →
Episode 035 – Chief Dennis Reilly is a 44-year fire service veteran, and is currently the Assistant Fire Chief for the City of Davis (CA). He is a retired Battalion Chief from Cherry Hill Fire Department (NJ) and also spent more than six years as the Fire Chief of Sunrise Beach FPD (MO). In addition to his … Continue reading Mission Driven Chief →
Episode 034 – Chris Sleigher has served the Mesa (AZ) Fire and Medical Department for 20 years and is currently the Captain on Engine 210. Chris is a board member for FireNuggets.com, President of the F.O.O.L.S chapter in Arizona, and assists with Fire Training Toolbox. He also instructs regularly at various regional conferences with Fire By … Continue reading Fire Nuggets →
Episode 033 – How do you retain firefighters you hire and train? Chief Scott Thompson of The Colony (TX) Fire Department says he accomplishes it through a culture centered around training, and “letting firemen be firemen.” He discusses how his members “want” to train, instead of “having” to train. The Colony Fire Department has not … Continue reading The Functional Fire Department →
Episode 032 – On November 27, 2015, a mass shooting occurred in a Planned Parenthood clinic in Colorado Springs, Colorado, resulting in the deaths of three people and injuries to nine. A police officer and two civilians were killed; five police officers and four civilians were injured. Craig Stalowy responded as a SWAT medic with Colorado Springs Fire Department and details his … Continue reading Planned Parenthood, PTSD, & EAP →
Episode 031 – JP Dinnell is a former U.S. Navy SEAL and now a leadership instructor and speaker with Echelon Front. He spent nearly a decade in the SEAL Teams with three combat deployments. In Ramadi, Iraq, in 2006, with SEAL Team Three’s Task Unit Bruiser, JP served as point man, machine gunner, and lead sniper … Continue reading Echelon Front →
Episode 030 – James Johnson has been with Vancouver (BC) Fire Rescue Services for 8 years, and travels throughout Canada and the U.S. to speak on building construction, in addition to hosting multiple podcast episodes on Fire Engineering’s Blog Talk Radio. We have a great discussion on the current generational differences in the fire service, … Continue reading Millennial Building Construction →
Wednesday Burn 005 – Lost in a warehouse with zero visibility. Five hundred pound bales of cotton collapsing on you. Your partner runs out of air – then you run out of air. This is the experience of Lt. Phillip Grandon of Lubbock Fire Rescue who, with the help of a prepared RIT on the … Continue reading Texas Warehouse Mayday →
Episode 029 – John Lovato Jr. is the author of Fix Your Firehouse and the man behind Brotherhood Coaching. He is a career Captain with over 15 years of experience. We talk about how change starts with you, and how the path to success goes beyond being told “No” more than a few times. We … Continue reading Fix Your Firehouse →
Episode 028 – May is National Mental Health Awareness Month, and we talk with Rhonda Kelly. Rhonda spent 17 years with East Metro (CO) Fire Rescue and found a greater calling when she left the fire service to join the National Behavioral Health Innovation Center at the University of Colorado. She is currently the program … Continue reading Mental Health Awareness →
Episode 027 – Chief Curt Isakson sits down with us to talk about the importance of leading at the company level, and how his mentors helped shape his career. We discuss the necessity of career long training, regardless of rank, and the need for honesty when debating fire ground tactics. Finally, we touch on the flexibility and adaptability that is present in successful firefighters on … Continue reading It’s Worth The Risk →
Episode 026 – John Spera, the co-founder of FTFF and the co-host of Lead Yourself, details his experience as a Fire Medic when he responded to the Century 16 Theater Shooting in Aurora, CO on July 20, 2012. Inside a chaotic scene, he talks about adapting and overcoming, making outside the box decisions, and collaborating … Continue reading Aurora Theater Shooting →
Episode 025 – Ben Martin (Lieutenant – Henrico County Division of Fire) joins us again at Firehouse World in San Diego. We let the mics record our conversation as we touched on handling station issues at the lowest level, placing members in positions for which they have no desire, the importance of trust within a … Continue reading Firehouse World Roundtable →
Episode 024 – Adam La Reau is the Co-Founder of O2X and a former Lieutenant Commander in the US Navy SEALs who began his military career as a Midshipman at the United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA). Having left active duty in August 2013, Adam attended the Harvard Kennedy School of Government and received a Masters … Continue reading Human Performance Training →
Wednesday Burn 004 – In a world full of excuses and justifications for why things don’t get done, remind yourself that no one really cares. The job either gets done or it doesn’t; no one cares about the excuses, only the results.
Episode 023 – Ryan Michler is the founder of Order of Man, a community and resource created to help all men become better. Better at self-mastery to family, from money to contribution, and everywhere in between. He is a father, husband, and Iraqi Combat Veteran and shares his insight to what makes a more successful man and … Continue reading Order Of Man →
Episode 022 – Introspection. Balance. Intentional Action. These are all good leadership practices for any firefighter, not just a promoted officer. Ben Martin, the man behind Embrace the Resistance discusses these while touching on his class, Intoxicated Leadership. Ben is a Lieutenant with the Henrico County Division of Fire, currently assigned to the training section. He has … Continue reading Embrace The Resistance →
Episode 021 – Brian Olson is a member of Eagle (ID) Fire Department and is part of the training group Brothers In Battle. We discuss how Brian came to be involved with this group, and why humility is a huge part of creating buy-in on the training ground. We touch on the importance of realistic … Continue reading Training For The Rescue →
Wednesday Burn 003 – Brian Olson previews his upcoming podcast with FTFF by talking about how it’s not as much about the finish line as it is about the journey in getting there. Learn more about Brian here.
Episode 020 – Suicide. PTSD. Drug and alcohol abuse. These are all affecting many first responders’ lives and well-being, and Ric Jorge has dealt with all of them throughout his career as a firefighter. He shares his personal story of how his perfect world crumbled right in front of him. But he never gave up, … Continue reading Suicide, PTSD, Drug Addiction →
Episode 019 – In this episode, we respond to questions submitted by our listeners. We discuss tips for getting hired, being successful in the academy, and creating buy-in as a junior firefighter. We also touch on exercises and equipment that have worked well for us in preparation for the fire ground, and the importance of … Continue reading Listener’s Podcast →
Episode 018 – Zac Varela is a 10 year veteran of the fire service, and an Engineer with East Metro (CO) Fire Rescue. Over the years, the engineer role has taken on many different roles and responsibilities, but Zac shares what he expects of himself in this position. We cover a wide range of topics … Continue reading Engineering For Leaders →
Episode 017 – Jason Hoevelmann is a Deputy Chief/Fire Marshal with the Sullivan Fire Protection District, a combination department, and a career Captain and Training Officer with the Florissant Valley Fire Protection District (MO). His experience spans more than 20 years and he has been an instructor for more than 15 years. Jason shares where it … Continue reading No Exceptions Leadership →
Episode 016 – Brian Brush, an 18-year veteran of the fire service, is a firefighter at Edmond (OK) Fire Rescue. Prior to Edmond, Brian was a Lieutenant with West Metro Fire Rescue (CO). Brian shares why he got into the fire service and why he made the decision to move departments. It takes humility, passion, … Continue reading Making The Move To A New Department →
Episode 015 – We talk with our former EMFR Training Chief, Hunter Hackbarth, on the topic of leading a cadre, which at times means just facilitating or simply getting out of the way. We touch on the importance of pride around the fire station and throughout the department, and how failure should be looked at … Continue reading A Chief That Says Yes →
Episode 014 Xtra (Uncut) – A short collection of thoughts that surrounded Eric and I’s conversation on Episode 014. Maybe it will prompt some discussion around your firehouse, or with your brothers and sisters.
Episode 014 – On May 18, 2017, Firefighter Scott Deem passed away while operating on a 4-alarm fire with San Antonio Fire Department. Eric Schultz was an academy brother of FF Deem and discusses that tragic night as well as the effects it has had on him and the department following the LODD. We also talk about the value of … Continue reading Mayday In San Antonio →
Wednesday Burn 002 – What is the level of instruction that every recruit deserves? What creates buy-in within an academy or a crew as an officer or an instructor? Why do some leaders tell you what to do, but don’t always show you what to do? What do recruits expect from an instructor? We answer … Continue reading Would You Want You Instructing You? →
Episode 012 – Tim Sendelbach is a 30-year student and educator of the fire and emergency services, currently serving as the Editor-in-Chief for Firehouse. He is responsible for the content and editorial direction of Firehouse® Magazine, Firehouse.com, Firehouse Expo, and Firehouse World. He has served as an Assistant Fire Chief with the North Las Vegas (NV) Fire Department, … Continue reading Firehouse Magazine →
Episode 011 – Jeff Clark has been the Fire Chief at East Side Fire & Rescue (WA) since February of 2016. Prior to that, he spent 25 years with Chandler (AZ) Fire Department, rising through the ranks to become that organization’s Fire Chief in 2008. Chief Clark introduces a recruiting model that all departments should … Continue reading Hiring The Right Firefighter →
Episode 010 – After 40 years with East Metro (CO) Fire Rescue, Jim Smith retired earlier this year. Jim physically outperformed the majority of firefighters he worked with up until his last shift. He takes us through his calling as a firefighter, his comeback from what most said was a career-ending injury, and how humility … Continue reading Four Decades Of Service →
Episode 009 – Justin McWilliams of Clackamas Fire District (OR) talks about creating a search culture and why we search. More importantly, he discusses his journey in becoming a better firefighter, which is centered around shelving his own ego everyday. We also touch on the importance of mentors and the physical demands of performing a … Continue reading Creating A Search Culture →
Episode 008 – Jarrod Sergi is a Lieutenant with Norfolk Fire Rescue and is assigned to Ladder Company 7 following time on one of the city’s busiest Engine Companies. He also served a tour in the Training Division as a Fire Academy Coordinator. Prior to working for the City of Norfolk, Jarrod served 6 years in the United States Navy … Continue reading Trial By Fire →
Wednesday Burn 001 – One of the most polarizing topics on social media is whether or not to run on the fire ground. Some buy in to it, some don’t. We burn on the topic to provide some clarity and thoughts. Sponsored by Paul Conway Fire (paulconwayshields.com)
Episode 007 – Mark vonAppen is the man behind Fully Involved, the blog that has become an integral part of the fire service revolution to promote improved leadership, culture, and morale. He is a Captain with Palo Alto (CA) Fire Department and tells us how it all started for him. We discuss accountability and having the … Continue reading Fully Involved →
Episode 006 – Dave McGrail is an Assistant Chief with Denver Fire Department and is best known for his experience with high-rise operations. Chief McGrail talks about the importance of being engaged in the fire service every day and eliminating complacency. We discuss bringing your “A” game to every call, and why it’s important for … Continue reading Bringing Your “A” Game →
Episode 005 – Michael Snodgrass is the creator of FireXTalk, the founder of AggressiveFirefighter.com, and teaches regularly at the Randy Carpenter Memorial Firefighter Survival School. He is a Lieutenant with Gresham (OR) Fire Department, and has 25 years of experience in the fire service. FTFF traveled to Portland to speak at FireXTalk 2017 along with … Continue reading Real World Training →
Episode 004 – Jim Moss and Dan Kerrigan, the authors of Firefighter Functional Fitness, join us to discuss the 4 Pillars concept within their book, how to promote a culture of fitness within your department, tips for dealing with sleep deprivation, and finding the motivation and discipline to establish career long healthy habits. Sponsored by … Continue reading Firefighter Functional Fitness →
Episode 003 – Deputy Chief Frank Viscuso of Kearny (NJ) Fire Department is the author of Step Up & Lead and speaks nationally on leadership and officer development. He discusses the contagious effects of positive and negative environments around the firehouse, the importance of leading yourself before you lead others, and training in realistic scenarios. … Continue reading Step Up And Lead →
Episode 002 – Kevin Shea joined the fire service in 1978 as a volunteer and then joined FDNY in 1984. He served on Engine 227 and Ladder 108 in Brooklyn, and Rescue 1 in Manhattan. He retired in 1998 due to injuries, but is still involved in the fire service today through speaking and consulting … Continue reading Retired FDNY FF Kevin Shea →
Episode 001 – John Spera and Tom Johnson, the founders of Fit To Fight Fire, discuss the origins of FTFF and preview the future of the podcast. Sponsored by Paul Conway Fire (paulconwayshields.com)