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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.

Chief of Department Jeremy Lami of the Mobile, AL Fire Rescue Department wears his badge proudly. Born and raised within the city he serves, he was influenced by his father’s career with the Fire Department but forged his own path prior to finding his way back home. Prior to riding backwards, he joined the Army and found tremendous fulfillment as a combat medic. Upon following in his father’s footsteps, he joined the ranks of the department in 2002 and then deployed overseas for Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. His early days were filled with excitement, learning the job while finding the comradery that the military had offered. Rising through the ranks, Chief Lami was exposed to many different parts of the job, including a stint as the Training Captain. He enjoyed his time in the academy, helping push the progress of the department forward with those who worked along side of him. As he rose through the Chief ranks, Chief Lami continually thought about his people and the those that serve the residents of Mobile each day. Recognizing the “old school” members and their contribution is important to Chief Lami and the department, but finding ways in which we bridge the gap with the younger generation is imperative. The job is moving forward and so must departments. Chief Lami is passionate about the job, the City of Mobile and most importantly, those in which he serves; the public and his department.

This week Pip sits down to talk with his friend Aaron Hinde, Cofounder and President of Life Aid Beverage Company. You would think this podcast focus is business and healthy beverages, and yes there’s some of that. Pip and Aaron talk about a variety of topics centering on living a better life. Not just by what you are eating and drinking, but what you are consuming. Aaron’s take on things over his close to 48 years of learning can benefit everyone. Aaron also talks about losing his home in a 2020 California wildfire. This overall conversation really keeps going back to personal accountability. Whether it be fitness, business, parenting or life. So sit back, relax and get ready to ask yourself. What’s my Size Up????

Laying on the ground and figuring out his next move after the exposure building went to sh*t, Captain Ron Smith had two choices. Do nothing and die or fight your way out and live. Thankfully the latter allowed him to return to the firehouse and finish out his shift that day. A common storyline for so many that almost turned tragic that day has made Ron understand that sometimes things happen and it's how we respond that makes all the difference. Awhile before his own situation, Ron was performing a search of a dwelling and came upon two Brothers that were found to be unconscious. Working on removing them and being part in their survival is just a number of influential experiences he has had during his 24 year career in Gary, IN. These stories along with a powerful mentor pushed Ron to teach and share the good word. His class "Decisions Under Fire" is a deep dive into his experiences and mind set. It's an impactful lesson fueled by real world experience. His passion for teaching and his appreciation for laughter led him to create "Training Seconds", short form social media content on fire ground tactics and tips with a humorous delivery. Sharing a laugh and enjoying his friends, Ron has a long road ahead of sharing his stories and love of the job. Check out @training_seconds on social media for more tips from Ron Smith.

23 years with the Bridgeport, CT Fire Department has provided Nick Esposito plenty of experience. Currently serving as the Captain of the Rescue Company, Nick enjoys the diversified work. However, truck company work has been his passion for quite some time. Running the line on the engine for alittle bit in his early years was a great way to learn the need for quick water which was in result to the work of the truck company. Moving over to the truck let him explore this line of work and he quickly fell for it. He was exposed to a senior man who knew the truck and the required tasks very well. His tutelage went a long way with Nick which he credits to his passion for the truck. Positioning, operations and tactics has lead Nick to create Truck Tactics Training. Being able to share his passion with others through social media and in person training has continued to keep Nick to constantly learn himself. "Because Ladders Matter"... it's a simple saying packed with a tom of responsibility. Continue the conversation... Nick Esposito can be found at www.trucktacticstraining.com, [email protected] and his IG @truck_tactics.

Jeremy grabs a few minutes with Robert "RJ" James , Career Firefighter with Frederick County, MD and an Instructor with Capitol Fire Training. This conversation has a lot packed into a short time slot. Talking about the main principals of firefighting, extinguishment, ventilation and search, a forth one should be added to the mix, firefighter safety and survival. Street credit, the importance of social media and the love of the job round out this episode. Check it out!! Capitol Fire Training www.capitolfiretraining.com

IG: @sufferwithfriends Website: https://sufferwithfriends.com/ Trigger warning: This podcast discusses suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255 This week's episode features Jess, from the IG page @sufferwithfriends. Pip and Jess met in the fitness world a few years back and they have both been following each other's journeys since then. Jess was able to use fitness and her fitness community to overcome her struggles with mental health. As Jess tells her story, she provides valuable tools that anyone can use to help themselves work through a mental health crisis. She also speaks of the importance of therapy. Both professional and self care. She also drops a lot of F bombs, but then again, she is from New Jersey. If you're interested in supporting her causes head over to https://sufferwithfriends.com/wsa and sign up for the workout happening anywhere you are from 8/18-8/20. Pip will certainly be taking it on and asking himself the question. What’s My Size Up???? Trigger warning: This podcast discusses suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out for help. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 at 1-800-273-8255

When it's time to do fireman stuff, look no further than Jason Jeffery. He just can't turn it off. A 13 year firefighter with Georgetown, TX, his passion and love for the job is second to none. When it's time to be all in, Jason doesn't hesitate. His sincere gratitude for the job has lead him to become a mentor to many through his love of training. Sharing conferences and external training opportunities with younger firefighters is important to him but he finds himself torn between the young and old of his department. The constant tug back and forth between generations has made him more patient and has allowed him to bridge the gap between both age groups. In order to make it all work requires the strength of all the team players and Jason is the guy that can make it happen. To continue the conversation, reach out to Jason at [email protected] or find him on IG @jjfire88.

Rob sits down with Chief Criag Haigh of the Hanover Park IL Fire Department who talks about what it means to be the Dynamic Fire Chief and how this program came about with some mutual friends at Revolutionary Fire Tactics at the Lake. Chief Haigh spans his career from humble beginnings, to helping with the conversion of an all volunteer department to combination, and coming home to Illinois to Hanover Park.

A highly decorated Captain Mike Dugan retired from the FDNY after 27 years of going to fires. His love for the job put him in many busy companies throughout his career and afforded him the incredible opportunities to work with and mentor many of the shining stars within the department. For his actions during a rope rescue, he received the James Gordon Bennet Award which then was followed up with the Harry M. Archer Award a year later, the department's highest citation. There is no mistaking that Mike Dugan is a New York City firefighter. The department is engrained into every ounce of his large frame. Yet, Mike loves to travel, learn and take part in sharing his experiences and knowledge with firefighters across the country. His integrity and character could never be questioned and his willingness to promote those around him is evident. Watching others succeed and being apart of the process gives Mike plenty of enjoyment. So much so, that he was awarded the Tom Brennan Lifetime Achievement Award from Fire Engineering at the 2022 FDIC ceremonies for his dedication and commitment to bettering the fire service. Intimidating on the outside, but warm and passionate on the inside, Captain Dugan has made an impact on so many within the fire service. His endless stories are powerful and his contributions immense. Mike's ability to share information and encourage others makes the job better. Check out CaptainDugan.com for more information regarding his training and educational services.

Randy Director of Brand Relations for Fire Dept Coffee Company and Rockford FFs life is fueled by Caffeine and Kindness. Just not as much Caffeine as both he and Pip used to enjoy. Randy and Pip’s conversation tells both his story and the Fire Dept Coffee Company story as well. The two talk about everything from coffee to marketing to parenting to firefighting. Jason Patton is even mentioned once or twice during the show. Towards the end of the episode Randy lets Pip in on his passion project. The Fire Dept Coffee Company Humanitarian Response vehicle. Make sure to listen in to learn how this vehicle will be helping those in need around the country. Grab a cup of your favorite brew (preferably Fire Dept Coffee), sit back and listen in. Then ask yourself the question? What's my Size Up?

From west coast to east coast, James Geering has been a Fireifghter Paramedic for large and small fire departments during his 14 year career. Witnessing first hand the highs of the job as well as the lows of poor leadership, James set out to educate himself about leadership as well as all aspects of performing at his maximum potential. Finding fulfillment in his podcast, Behind the Shield, James has now close to 800 episodes which has created a library of information for first responders and military personnel. His mission to educate has pushed him to find subject matter experts in all aspects of our lives. Passionate about PTSD, sleep apnea, diet, exercise and so much more, James is a steward of the conversation. “Conversation without filters” is the premise of his podcast and it is serving our community well. If you have a question about a topic, check out The Behind the Shield podcast and you’ll find different points of view about the same topics. His passion is evident in each episode and his mission to educate and promote first responders and the military community will always remain his number one focus.