National Fire Radio Podcast Platform

As the old saying goes, Slow and Steady wins the race. Episode 41’s guest, Allison Grubbs describes herself as just that, Slow and Steady. Recently Allison became only the 2nd woman to complete the GoRuck Selection course. Pip and Allison talk about those grueling 48 hours and just how she became a BAMF (Bad A$$ M$ther F$ucker). But not just in GoRuck, in life as well. Allison's story is that of the silent warrior who doesn't want to quit or give up. Pip and Allison talk about her home schooling, adventure racing, inspiration and of course GoRuck. Listening to Allison’s calm descriptions of grueling events will definitely have you asking yourself the question. What’s My Size Up??? Because what you do OFF the Job, MATTERS.

Ikaika Blackburn Captain - Maui Fire Engine 11 Our first episode of Maui Firestorm features Captain Ikaika Blackburn of the Maui County Fire Department. Captain Blackburn was commanding one of the first in companies for the Lahaina, HI firestorm on August 8, 2023. His first hand account of his experiences paints a vivid picture of the impossible conditions they were confronted with on that day. His commitment to his crew and the people of Lahaina makes his story one that needs to be told.

Second generation firefighter Tony Alosi is plain and simple, that "guy". "Uncle" Tony is loved by all and has a way about him in which he goes all in on people. Always keeping the conversation going, he is genuinely connected to those he touches and when you need a "guy", Tony will answer the call. Growing up in the firehouse, he learned to engage and be fiercely protective of the firehouse way of life. He can navigate the complex world of personalities and find ways to connect with all of them. Finding that commonality amongst our people and then being able to use that to bring everyone together will create the culture and environment we all strive for in our companies. Tony learned early on while watching his father hold court each day at the firehouse that he wanted to be surrounded by smarter, better people so that he can learn from them. This has always been his mission so that he can be the very best he can be. But being that "guy" can consume you and sometimes you need to take pause and reflect upon your own well being. All of this can come with a sense of renewed focus. "Starting over" has become a common theme in Tony's life. Understanding that taking one step backwards to get three steps forward is sometimes the way to go. With great humility and accountability, focusing on a reset can ground you and bring everything back into focus. Tony discusses this common theme of his life throughout this episode.

Columbus, OH Engine Co. 18 Lieutenant Steve Robertson can rattle off numbers on nozzle and hose packages all day long. His deep knowledge on engine company operations is widely known across the globe with his conference lectures and hands on training, the countless training articles, podcasts, seminars and the list goes on and on. His highly popular class, Stretching for Success, is in his words, 30 years of mistakes wrapped up into one program. "We all make mistakes" and "we screwed up fellas" is easy to say, but how we go about addressing it and fixing it is what sets people apart. "We must train to our weaknesses" is an absolute for Steve. The mentors of Steve's early years truly left a mark with him and he now finds himself over 30 years later helping shape the next generations. It's often easy to forget that Steve still runs as a Lt. in a busy urban engine company. More than just fires, the routine of the job, including shootings and overdoses plague his first due. He speaks to these aspects of the job as well, discussing a recent mass shooting in which there were many lessons to be learned. The job is constantly evolving and "requires us to keep growing". This episode has so much packed into it and Steve Robertson is certainly a leader in the fire service. "Don't take my word for it, vet me" and "Knowledge without experience is just theory". Words that Steve Robertson truly believes in. Stretching for Success in my opinion is not just about stretching lines, it's about accountability and being sure we put the work in to be a successful.

With over 20 years in the fire service, RJ is just as excited today as he was when he stepped foot into the firehouse many years ago. His love for the job shines through his spirit and personality. Always smiling, laughing and taking in the big picture isn't always easy for this Lieutenant. Life certainly can get in the way of true passions and this episode takes a turn into exactly those conversations. Finding a "balance" has taken time. Too often, when we love something so much, it can become detrimental to other parts of your life. Focusing on what's important and prioritizing the mission comes with maturity and awareness. It's a constant work in progress and RJ is determined to figure it all out. He has gone all in, creating Capitol Fire Training while bouncing around as a covering Boss. While most don't like not having a home, RJ takes a different look at this and believes it is a tremendous opportunity. Working in firehouses all over the county allows him to become engaged with so many different firefighters and companies. He can disseminate information while collecting valuable recon so that he can help steer the ship. It is important to know what's happing on the streets and in our firehouses. RJ is committed to being apart of the process by filling in where the department needs him. "Mission over me" has consumed RJ and his approach with the job. Spend a few minutes with him and his infectious love for the fire service will consume you. RJ is truly making an impact on the fire service and those that he can reach.

Fight Fire Don’t Die. Seems like a simple enough concept, right? So simple, Jake from @districtfire.co even put it on a shirt. This week Pip sits down with the owner, founder, designer, printer and shipping guy from District Fire Co , Jake. A former Air Force Firefighter and skate punk fan. Jake took up drawing after he separated from the Air Force and was looking for something to occupy his mind. Jake talks about his struggle with separation from the service, PTSD and the poly vagal theory. This episode is a must listen for anyone preparing to retire or separate from service. It will definitely have you asking yourself the question, What’s My Size Up????

The perfect partnership. Eric Allen and Sam Cohen compliment each other perfectly. Eric, a veteran firefighter with the Philadelphia, PA Fire Department Special Operations Command and Sam, a business entrepreneur with laser focus, partnered up to change the way in which firefighter safety and survival on the fireground is performed. The FAST Board is the brain child of Eric; a product he developed through real world experience and the constant frustration that we can do better when removing a downed firefighter. Therefore, FAST Rescue is much more than a product, it's a movement. Their mission is to train firefighters with real world techniques has created a strong foundation in which their company is built upon. Their instructors are top shelf, vetted with real world experience and their buy in is second to none. They each believe in the mission and in fact, they are now known as the TRIBE. Get on, or get out of the way, this TRIBE is making a HUGE impact on firefighter safety and survival. Their mission is steadfast and the movement they have created allows for them to be in the trenches with those they work with. Everything they do represents the very best of their mission; pushing this job forward. Philanthropy and personal sacrifice are two key factors that fuel their ambition. They have gone all in on their business and their friendship. A true partnership that pushes each other's drive to be the very best they can be. They have built a strong product and company that is laser focused on one thing, saving lives. -- Check out FAST Rescue Solutions at www.fastrescuesolutions.com and follow their social media channels where you become part of the TRIBE.

Jeremy chats with Nick Peppard and Kyle Straight about the upcoming North Florida Fire Expo, February 7-10, 2024. On its' fifth year, this conference offers a top shelf list of talent and the venue to match. Announced on this episode, they are opening up more spaces for the sold out classes including Nozzle Forward with Aaron Fields and Tailboard Leadership with LJay Geist. For more info, check out https://www.northfloridafireexpo.com.

Jon Haddad likes change. Change in the fire service is rarely welcomed and often looked at as the enemy. But Jon has a different outlook on change. Change pushes him to be better; to take on new challenges that push him and his career. One such change was when he took on the role of Recruit Class Commander for a recent probie class. In his own words, Jon discusses how that opportunity provided so much for himself as well as his influence on the next generation of firefighters. Jon trusts the process and those that have spent so much time creating it as a roadmap for success. This episode hits so many nuggets that all of us can relate to. His methods and ability to communicate with few words makes his approach intentional. His intentions are clear and to those around Jon Haddad, they know he is there to make a difference with anything he is involved with.

Episode 39 features Brett Dugas and his girls. Pip slid into his DM’s after his brother-in-law shared one of Brett’s dog videos on IG. Brett has been putting out videos of his two dogs and occasionally his girlfriend for 2 years now. His success is evident by the number of views, comments and likes each video gets. Pip and Brett talk about social media, the fire service, the dogs and even share a cat story or two. This episode is filled with laughs and lessons about life in general. Some that will even have you asking yourself, What's My Size Up???

Pulling a woman from her burning home in June 2019 thrusted Danny Dwyer into the national headlines for weeks after this fire. One would think that the spotlight was for his heroics and bravery, but in fact, it was for the disciplinary charges that followed that evening. Danny became the "poster child" for the ongoing struggle between firefighters doing their job and the new "safety culture" that has crept into our departments. He performed the way the public blindly expects us to - to provide safety and protection in their worst moments. From this, the "Danny Would Go" movement swept across the American Fire Service. People taking each side of the argument, but where was Danny during all of this commotion?? He was dealing with the fall out and the pressures of being thrusted into a national debate. This wasn't the easiest for Danny and his family but one thing is for sure, he never surrendered his conviction and belief that he performed in the very best traditions of the fire service that night. Danny did go, and he would go again, and again, and again. Staying true and believing in himself, he left the City of Atlanta to focus more on himself and his family. He now rides with a new jurisdiction and he is more excited about the job than ever. He struggled along the way but he found the way back to loving the job and being vindicated by the commission three years later. Life continues to move forward for Danny and he is in a place today where he can influence change. Those principles that let him down back in 2019 will never factor into his mentoring and he'll be dammed to let the public or his people down like he was let down years ago. Danny continues to Go. He doesn't know any other way...

Jeremy spoke at the recent Fire Truck Training Conference hosted by the REV Group in Lansing, Michigan. This keynote address was geared towards the mechanics and shop personnel who constantly work at keeping our apparatus on the road. Like firefighters, the crews from fleet maintenance work hard at continuing their education and learning from the best in the business. The FTTC is a top shelf conference offering education, training and certification to mechanics across the country for the last 25 years.

In Mike Lydon's words, he's a "Self Made Jake." Boston is a big, little city where generational firefighters are commonplace. He didn't have any family on the job nor did he even know that was his future until coming home from Iraq, getting married and having a child. It focused Mike on the importance of a solid foundation and a stable life. Mike's upbringing in his Irish Boston home set him on the path like so many from his city, military and then, the fire department. 22 years later, he is a 1st Sgt. with the Army as well as a 10 year member of the Boston Fire Department. He is currently assigned to Rescue Co. 1 and a member of the departments' Dive Team. He has grown a passion for the tech rescue side of the job and continues to push himself each day to learn the craft. Mike has a discipline about himself that he has had from his early military days. Always strive to take the next guys position... meaning, put in the work, study and do what it takes to constantly move up the line. He is quite content to remain a "blue shirt" but his quest for knowledge and skills continues to push him forward. Take five minutes each tour and talk to the next guy is important to Mike and he tries to live that each tour. This episode is powerful and the message will resonate with so many.

Episode 38 is Not a Marriage podcast, even though Pip’s guest is his wife, Tracey Piparo aka Mrs. Pip. Now, that's not to say they don’t talk about marriage, but it’s just not the topic they set out to talk about. It’s hard for two married people to avoid the topic . You can jump back to hear us talk on Episode 8 as well. Today’s main topic is Mrs. Pip’s professional as a palliative care PA. She talks about normalizing death and dying. It’s not exactly a topic most people even know they should learn about. But like she says, we are all going to die, so at least be prepared. She explains the palliative care system and some very simple steps we can all take to be ready. Trust me, this topic makes you ask yourself that question for sure. What’s My Size Up???

This keynote was given at the FEMSA FAMA conference in New Orleans in September 2023. FEMSA, the Fire and Emergency Manufacturers and Services Association and FAMA, the Fire Apparatus Manufacturer's Association meet each year to share ideas, work on projects and to help shape the future of the fire service. This keynote, "A Work in Progress". tells about the NFR story, our journey and then shifts focus on the marketing and media side of business.

Jeremy had a chance to sit down with Joe Minogue, the liaison to the FDNY for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation at this years' NJ Firefighter's Convention in Wildwood, NJ. Joe is a retired Lt. with the FDNY and was the Commanding Officer for the FDNY Ceremonial Unit. His devotion to preserving the legacy of those that have fallen drives Joe to be an active member of the NFFF team. This interview was hosted in the Fire and Safety Services exhibit space during the conference. Fire and Safety Services is a long standing supporter of the NFFF and their partnership has been strong for a very long time. The importance of the Foundation cannot be stressed enough and we all need to do more to preserve this great organization so that the memories of those that have passed in the line of duty will forever be remembered. Please check out www.firehero.org for more information about the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.

Towards the end of our trip in Port Chester, NY, Jeremy had the chance to sit down with a bunch of the guys to talk shop over a cigar. Best of all, it was at the place where all the firehouse problems can be solved: The Kitchen Table.

For 2 guys from Jersey, we spend a great deal of time chatting it up about Colorado. Episode 37 features Rob Policht from Flow and Vent. Rob and Pip spend a great deal of time talking about growth. Whether it be their own, in the firehouse, as parents and basically people. The share the knowledge they have gained in the fire world and business world. Relating everyday topics to who they are both trying to live their lives. And of course asking each other that question. What’s Your Size Up?????

Jeremy sits down with editor Seb and co-host Pip of The Size Up to talk about their recent trip out to Maui to research more about the devastation in the wake of the wildfires. A huge shoutout and thank you to Shane Furata and Chief Amos Lonokailua-Hewett for making this all happen. It was truly an unforgettable experience and we look forward to bringing the community more information and content about our time there.

IG: @beyondthebasicsfiretraining Website: https://www.btbfiretraining.com/ Retiring from anything is a daunting thought. Retiring from an emergency services career is down right petrifying. Today Pip is joined by retired Battalion Chief John Hayowyk. John and Pip chat about a host of topics surrounding his recent retirement, but they all come back to the common theme of Staying Relevant. John has decided to continue his teaching career by traveling the country providing classes at conferences and for specific departments. That’s what works for him, it may not work for you. Who knows, but you need to find that thing. That thing that keeps you going, keeps you relevant and causes you to ask that question. What’s My Size Up????

Lt. Kevin Pfluger of the Live Oak Fire Department from Live Oak Texas sits down with Rob on this episode of The Gospel to talk about the challenges of making firefighters in a short staffed fire department. Breaking down the 6 months of probationary field training, Kevin talks about how they take a new firefighter and make them into a Live Oak Firefighter. Kevin even offers up their probationary book to share for those who need a jumping point that are in a similar situation.

IG: @ricardoalmeidabjj Website: https://ricardoalmeida.com/ No, we aren’t going to talk about what car you should drive in this episode, sorry car enthusiasts. But yet, what you could be doing in life to make yourself better. This week Pip is joined by Professor Ricardo Almeida, the #minipips former Brazilian Jiu Jitsu instructor. Ricardo talks about his career as a fighter, his profession as a school owner and about being a father. This conversation’s constant theme is that of balance. Whether it’s winning or losing in life , tapping or being tapped on the mats. Ricardo and Pip both believe we can all use a little of both. We can all be students of life. “The black belt that is the white belt that never quit.” Asking ourselves that question. What’s My Size Up?????

Jeremy sits down with historian Tom Zack, and Chief of Department Angelo Sposta to discuss some of the in depth history behind the Port Chester, FD.

34 years with the Bridgeport, CT Fire Department allowed for plenty of job work for Rich Thode. From his early days on the engine and truck, to finding his place as the Rescue Boss, Rich always loved the streets and what they offered. Climbing the ranks and retiring as the Chief of Department, Rich still kept his finger on the pulse of the streets and worked for his firefighters. After his retirement, Rich took the position of the Chief of Department for a smaller city, Danbury, CT. This move presented a whole new set of challenges in which allowed him to use his street smarts and learned administration abilities to support and grow the Danbury, CT department. He loves the fire service and he especially loves going to work. A boots on the ground chief with gear in his car, Rich seems to find himself rolling up on incidents during the early stages. On and off duty, work finds Rich and well, he's just perfectly content with that...

On today’s episode of The Gospel on National Fire Radio, Rob sits down with Battalion Chief Marc Aloan of the West Columbia Fire Department to talk about the dynamics of training at the company level and what his passion is when it comes to doing training. He also dives into “The Goal is to Explain the Why?” to lay down the concept of getting training off the ground the right way. You can find Marc on social media at The Fire Inside Blog or through Instagram @thefireinsidepage or Facebook at The Fire inside. Marc Aloan is a career Battalion Chief with the West Columbia Fire Department (SC) and creator of The Fire Inside blog. He has been immersed in the fire service for nearly 20 years, in both volunteer and career departments, and is a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. He is a nationally recognized speaker and published author with work in culture and professional development. He holds a B.S. in Fire Protection Administration from Eastern Kentucky University and a M.A. in Organizational Leadership from Waldorf University.

Sweep The Leg is just a classic movie line, from a movie that came out before Episode 34’s guest was even born. But he got it. Tyler Giuliano joins Pip this week for what can only be described as dynamic conversation about everything and anything. A self described “millennial” , Tyler’s passion for life and the job can only be described as contagious. The topics for this episode range from firefighting, Florida, fatherhood, fitness, and BMX (sorry, ran out of F words). Listening to this will have you fired up to start your day for sure and as always ask yourself that question. What’s My Size Up????

The creator of Firehouse Vigilance, the host of The Weekly Scrap and the biggest hype man in the fire service, Corley Moore cannot sit still. His passion for knowledge and his thirst for insight from his guests fires Corley up. This is no exception to this episode. Jeremy and Corley go at it, hitting some big topics head on which turns into one hell of a conversation. What's more important to you; Being Right or Being Effective?? Join the conversation and let us know your thoughts on this episode.

Catching up with my friend Sean Eagen, Captain of 4 Truck in Buffalo, NY. We discuss communication at home, the series of tragedies that have struck the City of Buffalo and working within a younger job these days. As always, a great conversation with plenty of nuggets to share. Sean knocks it out of the park as always!!

A chance encounter lead to Kamron and Jeremy becoming friends. This straight shooter from the Napa Valley region of California brings so much to the table. Captain Kamron Gangbin of CAL Fire certainly loves his job and his gorgeous first due area. Well entrenched within the community he serves makes it an absolute enjoyment to work in while causing unbearable heartache when the wildfires occur. It's not uncommon to turn the corner and see multiple homes on fire with people still asleep inside. Single man searching under the most harrowing conditions is not uncommon for his company. The Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) is a completely different animal than the routine fires and emergencies that most of us deal with on a daily basis. Kamron and his crews need to know it all and understand the consequences of a delayed response or not being prepared could make the difference between a small fire and a conflagration. They train and train some more. Intent matters and Kamron explains why it is imperative to be INTENTIONAL about everything they do. "When you have a constant, you then know when something is out of place." A powerful episode and a unique perspective on a job we all love.

The island of Maui, HI is home to a rich heritage and culture of the Hawaiian people. Those that are sworn to protect these communities from fire also live within the same boarders. A culture of faith, trust and a strong sense of community, the firefighters that work these streets have an insatiable passion for protecting their very own community. Retired Battalion Chief Amos Lonokailua-Hewett has been enjoying the retired life but the fires that began on August 8, 2023 brought him right back to his role within the Fire Department. Unlike the mainland, there are only so many resources available on an island, so when emergencies hit on a large scale, it is the people who fight for their own homes and community. Amos and so many other retired Maui firefighters have been active since the start of the fires because they have a sense of duty and pride to their neighbors. This firestorm destroyed hundreds of properties, caused countless deaths and still, so many are missing among the ashes of the ruins. But the spirit of the Hawaiian people will prevail because of people like Amos Lonokailua-Hewett who live and breathe every sense of his Hawaiian heritage. So much more to come on the Lahaina fires that occurred on the island of Maui. Stay tuned.

TikTok @bluffcitycombat Instagram bluff_city_combat_team Facebook The Bluff City Combat team Email [email protected] You can alway go one extra step in life. This week's guest, Mike Coleman is a true example of that statement. Mike is a firefighter with the Memphis Fire Department and one of the founding members of its Firefighter Challenge Team. Pip and Mike chat about the formation of the team, competing and most importantly training. The overwhelming theme of Mike’s story is constantly progressing in everything you do in life. That attitude alone will have you asking yourself the question. What’s My Size Up???

With over 20 years in the fire service, Assistant Chief Justin McCarthy has learned one thing along the way, you can't replace people. As technology advances and we find ways to do more with less, Justin knows that it's the people that make the difference on the fireground. From his early volunteer days, Justin knew he wanted the experience within an urban department. New Haven, CT became home for Justin, where he had to relearn the job the New Haven way, which was so important to his foundation beginnings as a city fireman. Moving up through the department, he rode with some of the busiest companies and found his way to the Training Academy which lead him to the AC spot. During his tenure, Justin was responsible for so many different opportunities including the organization of their ceremonial unit for recognizing their fallen. During this time, New Haven Firefighter Ricardo Torres was killed while operating on the fireground on May 12, 2021. A memorable time in Justin's career, a time that we will never forget. From New Haven, Justin took an opportunity to change the scenery and took a job as the Assistant Chief in Greenwich, CT. A new zip code with a while new set of operational challenges. Like his beginning in New Haven, he has had to sit back and listen, learn the Greenwich way and find where he can compliment their department. Justin is up for the challenge and in enjoying his new role. He brings with him a simple approach by not overcomplicating the job. "Added layers, added problems." Justin has plenty of time ahead of him to continue forward progress in the fire service by protecting the old school mentality while allowing growth within his ranks. Maintaining a level of continuity across the board is important to Justin and his approach represents this challenge each day he educates the next generation of firefighters.

Train to your "Operational Reality"... Bobby Eckert can't talk about it enough. It's often discussed about the importance of training but how often do we train to the reality in which we respond and operate?? Does your training represent the actual fireground in which we are tested on daily?? Eckert Fire Tactics brings the streets to the training grounds. This helps build confidence which creates know how and initiative on the fireground. The other side of this is the support from our individual departments for those members that seek external training opportunities. As our firefighters gain experience on the training grounds, they become more effective on the fireground. Support your people and push them to pursue additional training and give them the tools they need to make it happen. Please, don't hold your firefighters back by making it difficult. Ego is a dangerous thing and it always gets in the way.

Another great conversation between Jeremy and Gerard. The reality is, this job is a roller coaster ride. We all experience the highs and lows of the job and with this comes the honest conversation about how we deal with it. Many of us feel the range of emotions throughout our careers and the funny thing is, only those that are into it get this crazy ride. Those that are disconnected and lack excitement and passion about the job don't struggle with the frustration and need for a recharge. "Get out of your firehouse" and see how others are doing it. A part of the conversation that Jeremy and Gerard hit on which is one of many ways to recharge your batteries.

Are you aggressively passionate in everything you do in life. Ofer Lichtman is . Whether it’s with running his business, TraumaPak or sharing his passion for emergency response. Mentorship, operational medicine, leadership and empowerment are all chatted about this week. It’s an episode you don’t want to miss and will have you asking that question. What’s My Size Up???

Eric Hurst is living the dream job he hoped for... From his early years of chasing fire trucks and capturing the action for his vlog, he developed relationships and trust within the firefighting community. From there, he began his journey to where he is today, the PIO for the South Metro Fire Rescue Department in Colorado. His passion for documenting the craft has built a solid foundation in which he, along with his team, have created a nontraditional way in which people have come to know their department. Early on, social media in particular was considered to be dangerous for the job. Eric set out to change that perspective and to use social media to the departments benefit. Today, their YouTube page boasts over 187K subscribers along with countless followers on their other social channels. The job of the PIO in todays' times is exciting and Eric and his team are up for the challenge. Promoting the job, their department and more importantly, educating the public about the service they provide within their communities was the upfront goal, however, there is so much more to the influence they now have across their platforms. With the trust of their administration, the PIO team at South Metro is helping shape and build their department while simultaneously providing education and training for not just their community and department, but the world. This 24 hour a day job is a passion for Eric, so much so, that he has created his own personal YouTube page, Eric Hurst, in which he quickly amassed a large following as well as he documents his travels to different departments. This episode is a glimpse to the inside world of Eric and his daily grind as he represents the best of the fire service.

"Go spread the fireground gospel"... LJay Geist has been a student of the fire service since his early years. Looking for more, he has traveled to conferences and made connections with complete strangers just to push himself forward in the fire service. Making the connections and forming relationships with like minded people has impacted LJay greatly. These relationships make him better and encourages him to step out further and give back to the fire service. He now teaches hands-on and speaks at training events. He sometimes has to pinch himself to realize that he is now standing in front of the room instead of sitting in the crowd. But he has never lost sight of the importance of being a student and learning from those he surrounds himself with. His passion is focused on the main mission, "Promote Growth". We have a duty to protect the job and push those around us to be better. Tailboard Leadership and believing in people drive LJay each day to focus on his game while boosting those up around him. He know has a larger stage than just his fire company, but his message remains the same; go out and spread the fireground gospel!!

How does one know when they become the "Senior Man"?? There is no formal process or recipe for how and when it happens. But there are the ingredients that are necessary for who becomes the "Senior Man". Jess Rodzinka, a Captain with the Charlottesville, VA Fire Department found himself navigating this situation during his 25 year career. The informal leader of the firehouse, this position is often talked about but what is an actual "Senior Man"?? The skills and traits required to carry this title. It's not being the oldest, it doesn't require being the longest serving... it's more than all of that. The one who is looked up to, the one who makes shit happen, the one the boss talks to to make things happen. Respected and protective of the company, its' rules and operations. The list goes on and on with what goes into this pivotal position. Jess dives in and speaks about the ins and outs of the "Senior Man" position and has created a class about it. He speaks from first hand knowledge and experience. His passion for his people, the integrity of the company and the importance of legacy. These traits are all part of the job and meaning of the "Senior Man."

For episode 31, Pip welcomes Rick Roman. Rick is a firefighter with the FDNY and founding member of the @fdny_crossfit affiliate. So yes, these 2 do talk about Crossfit and much much more. Rick talks about his education and working in the sports performance industry as well as his time on the Crossfit Med Team. Rick recently competed in the World Police and Fire Games. So many great fitness and firefighting nuggets were dropped in this episode that will get you asking yourself the question. What’s My Size Up????

Pablo Gener has never been one to settle on where he is, but rather, pursuing his internal quest to be a firefighter in an urban department that goes to fires. His career provided plenty of time and experience with great departments across Florida, but recently landing in Jacksonville fulfills his mission of what he set out for early on. Pablo uses the term, "By the grace of God" when speaking about his "luck" during his career but I believe that we can create our own luck when you are mission focused and doing the right thing. This Cuban immigrant comes from strong, hard working parents who came to the US to provide a better life for him and his siblings. Influenced by his parents work ethic, Pablo grinded, working many different jobs once his baseball career ended and struggled to find his "calling". When he found the fire service, he knew exactly where he wanted to be. From early on, he was influenced by FDNY buff videos, magazines and anything the job could offer. He was hungry to learn more and this pushed him to always want more. He is the co-founder of Build Your Culture with Sean Duffy, he teaches for the National Rescue Consultants, works with the Training Division and travels spreading the good word. His story is exciting and his passion is unmatched. Pablo Gener cannot get enough about the job and continues to find more as his fire service journey continues. -- Contact Pablo on IG @pgen305

When we create an environment of micromanagement and sheltering our people from their actual job, we create Zoo Animals. The fire service can't afford to have zoo animals working the fireground. We need wild animals, ones that learn by trial and error, ones that find their way on their terms and have real world experience. Weak bosses stunt the growth of the individuals by creating an environment of seeking permission to perform their duties. When we get to this place, our hungry firefighters are held back and learn to ask for what they need instead of going and getting it themselves. The public deserves the very best from their firefighters and they can't afford to have zoo animals providing the protection they have come to expect. Bosses - let your people work and get out of their way!!

Jeremy grabs a conversation with Derek Travers, Mike McGinn and Michael Goldstein about the New Hampshire Emergency Services Explorer Training Academy (NHESETA) that they put on for 14-20 year old's at the New Hampshire State Fire Academy. -- https://www.nheseta.org/

Firefighting is a process. It takes experience and maturity which only comes with time on the fireground. To often we rush the process because we want more quickly. Bu this can stunt your growth, and limit your exposure to all of the intricacies of the job over the course of time. Like reading cliff notes, you can write a paper or take a test, but you will always do better if you read the entire book. However, there are times that the process is rushed because of the needs of the company or department. Promoting quicker, less time riding backwards and less exposure to experience can all become part of this equation. Sometimes we need to move along more quickly and therefore, the bigger picture needs you to rush the process. If this is the case, then do everything you can to be informed, educate yourself more than the next guy and learn through training and others experience. I believe you can gain great understanding and knowledge through others. t's not an easy world these days, but if you can, enjoy the ride and make it yours to have.

This week Pip is joined by Conrad Weaver, documentarian and cross country bike rider. Conrad’s recent documentary PTSD911 will be released on Amazon on October 28th. Pip and Conrad talk about the documentary and his coast to coast bike ride to promote it, and first responder wellness. @ptsd911movie https://ptsd911movie.com/

The microphone is turned and Jeremy is on the other side of the conversation. This episode is worth the listen!! -- James Geering and the Behind the Shield Podcast.

Vanguard Safety Wear; Ryan Pennington Andy Shapiro Nick Dinges

@chiefsoller @professional.brotherhood Are you constantly evolving?? For episode 29 Pip sits down with friend and fellow podcaster Brian Soller (Pip finally pronounces his name right). The two friends talk about their growth as firefighters, and friends. The topics vary, but the conversation overall stays the same. How are you evolving and what are you doing in your life to make yourself better. There’s definitely a part 2 for these two down the line. Listen carefully as these two east coast guys chat quickly, but should still have you asking yourself that question. What’s My Size Up????

Jeremy and Pip sit down to talk about their experiences with bringing on guests, and the importance of telling the guests story. The two also dive into some discussions about movies and their influence on them today.

Battalion Chief Tom Gherman is a humble man who early knew he wanted to be a firefighter. From his early volunteer days in Lewisburg, WV, this second generation firefighter watched and emulated his father early on. The volunteer fire service left an incredible impact on Tom, realizing how important it is to be apart of something bigger that gives back to the community in which he lived. Furthering his career, he became a career firefighter with Roanoke, VA where he currently is a Battalion Chief. His early days of training and commitment have stayed with him throughout his career. Today, it is widely known in his Battalion that "Gherman is going to make us work" during their shift. Tom believes that when you're working, you're working. It is important to cut out the distractions of everyday life and focus on the job in which you're there to do. Training is important and part of the day in, day out process. Finding time in the hectic schedule can be challenging, but Tom knows how important it is and pushes his companies to make the time. Reflecting back on the mentors that impressed upon him the values of the job, he speaks highly of those who influenced him early on and tries to emulate the same today for those firefighters that look to him for guidance. In fact, Tom is on the show because his own firefighters recommended him to NFR and that his impact on the job and the firefighters is top shelf. A big man with a humble heart, Battalion Chief Tom Gherman loves the job and the people in which he serves and works with.

Early in Lt. Jason Fejer's career as a DOD firefighter, the call volume was thin so it provided an incredible opportunity to pursue all the training he could absorb. Idle time was filled with opportunity for higher education which in turn opened doors for wanting more from the job. Transferring to the City of Albuquerque, NM, Jason found the busier department had so much more to offer but credits his DOD days on getting him dialed into the job. He spent many years "piping" in some busy companies around the city and then found himself promoted to the Lieutenant position. Taking some time in the "alarm room" was an eye opening experience and one he still thinks back on today. Those busy tours taught him alot about the other side of the job and how important it was to the suppression and medical units in the field. Finding his way back to suppression, being an LT on the engine pushed him to remember his early days of training and how important it is to the mission of the company and department. Promoting his crews, working on what was deficient and shining a light on the good, he found the medium of Instagram to share his experience and knowledge. Today, Jason has a new challenge in front of him, the department's PIO. A challenging position with a whole new set of rules and engagement, Jason enjoys the challenge and embraces the opportunities that come with the position. Being well rounded will make you a better firefighter and Jason Fejer is certainly willing to try different things along the way.