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A "Jersey Guy", John Lewis was all in from an early age. Emulating his Father and older Brother, John knew he wanted to be a firefighter. Joining the volunteer department at an early age set the stage for his love of the job. Soon after, John was hired in a small department in NJ where he was exposed to plenty of work. Many memorable jobs were made but one in particular still stands out. John was caught in a flashover while trying to rescue a civilian during a structural fire. As his gear caught fire, John had to bail out leaving the victim behind. A difficult decision that could've been life ending for himself as well. Learning how to cope with this was certainly a challenging part of the job. An important leader at the time pushed John to teach and talk about his experience. As he became more comfortable with speaking and sharing, the training route became easier. Changing departments due to layoffs, John now found himself in an urban department and promoting upward. His experiences were put to the test when his own department suffered a LODD and his know how and experience helped the department at their lowest time. John's influence and organic love for the fire service made him relatable to both the young and old and his demeanor made him a standout to many entry level firefighters on the academy grounds. His influence can be felt near and far. No longer riding apparatus, John is still involved with teaching and spreading the good word. His contribution to the fire service has been instrumental in moving the dial on today's fire service.

Deputy Assistant Chief John Norman's (ret.) latest book, "Working with Giants" is the perfect title for how he talks about the job. As he reminisces about his incredible career, he constantly credits those he worked along side of. Those who served as mentors as well as those who served under Chief Norman's command are remembered and talked about by name. With over 50 years in the fire service, 27 of them with the FDNY, Chief Norman certainly has a lifetimes' worth of experiences. His love for the job took him to so many different places throughout his career, most of which was with the Special Operations Command (SOC). Recognizing the importance of his experience, Chief Norman began publishing articles and publications to help push the job forward. His contributions to the Fire Service are quite vast. His widely read book, the Fire Officer's Handbook of Tactics is an industry staple. He has dedicated his lifetime of experience to educating and promoting the job. Even today, Chief Norman recognized the need to share his knowledge through social media channels. A love for fire photos and storytelling makes social media the perfect delivery platform for his willingness to share. Reaching the next generation by where they spend their time is case in point about how in tune Chief Norman is with the job. Adapting to today and understanding the importance of his contributions, Chief Norman will continue to educate as long as he "doesn't run out of photos." John Norman's legacy and commitment to the fire service certainly makes him one of the "Giants". -- For more information, check out www.chiefnorman.com or find him on IG @chiefnormanfdny

Sometimes opportunity presents itself and you have to just have to believe and go all in. Coming off the line for a year and taking a staff position, Lt. Auggie Matt of the Syracuse, NY Fire Department loves working the streets. Prior to being promoted, he was the senior driver of the Rescue and really liked where he was at. But when the Chief asked him to take on a new project with another Lieutenant, he went all in. Creating the Syracuse Fire Department's Professional Development Program was an opportunity to change the trajectory of the department. Creating a blueprint for the membership in both horizontal and vertical applications, Auggie knew how game changing such an endeavor could be. Having a department and administration that believes in the promotion of their people, they provided the tools necessary for firefighters and officers alike to further their education within the fire service. It is not uncommon to have firefighters talking about the courses they're taking or asking questions about the next class coming up. This environment is buy in from the top down and the bottom up. Giving each member the ability to further themselves creates a healthy environment where the attitude is to be better. It's not surprising that Auggie saw the importance of this process. As a student of the fire service, he knows the importance of history and speaks regularly about the early days of the department. He is the owner of Take The Door Training and he runs the annual Heavy Rescue Conference in Syracuse, NY each September. His love of the job and passion for pushing the job forward is evident in everything he touches. The job is good and people like Auggie work hard at making sure it stays that way. -- Check out www.takethedoor.com for moori information about Auggie, his training company and the Heavy Rescue Conference.

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."

With over 30 years in the fire service, Darren Brinkkoeter still remembers the sights and sounds of growing up as a fireman's kid. Hiding in the back of his fathers car as he races off to the fire in town, Darren knew very early on that firefighting was in his bones. There was little chance he wasn't going to end up riding those firetrucks he so loved growing up. Those years greatly influenced his passion and desire to be the best firefighter he could be. Spending 27 years with the New Braunfels, TX Fire Department, retiring as a Battalion Chief, Darren had the opportunity to work alongside his father early on in his career. Upon retiring, he served as the Chief of Department for the Canyon Lake, TX Fire Department, a growing department and community that presented many challenges. Darren enjoyed his time in Canyon Lake, expanding services and leaving his stamp on the department they are today. He currently is a Region Section Chief for the Texas Division of Emergency Management where he puts his management and communication skills to work during large scale emergencies and responses. Darren's knowledge and demeanor is steadfast and his passion and love for service is ever present. Even many years after retiring from New Braunfels, TX, Darren is still invited back annually to speak with the new firefighters about the tradition and history of the department. This gives him great pride in still being apart of the process while giving back to the fire service that gave him so much throughout his life. He is a humble gentleman who has so much to offer to those who are fortunate enough to meet him.

On todays throwback episode, Jeremy and Rob are joined by the OG himself, retired lieutenant David Gallagher of the Huber Heights Ohio Fire Department. The OG shares with us his stories about coming up through a changing fire service and shares some of the personal events that shaped who he has become in his career. Currently, Dave is continuing to pass on his knowledge as an instructor with the Massachusetts Fire Acadmey and OSTA.

This month marks the 5th anniversary since NFR launched. It has been an incredible journey. This is a quick conversation about our beginning and the foundation in which we continue to build upon today.

Jeremy opens the Northeastern Fire Summit with his keynote, Bridging the Gap. New England FOOLS, March 3-5, 2023.

20 years in the fire service, the last 8 with Sacramento, CA, Steve McClain knows one thing... he wanted to run with fast paced companies and go to fires. Sacramento offers a wide variety of opportunity and admittedly, Steve will tell you the knob is the best seat in the game, but the truck certainly offers more opportunity. And opportunity is what he likes. Sacramento has an organized approach to work. Fluid riding positions and a culture that breeds aggressive firefighting. These factors are built upon the hard work of those that came before Steve and the firefighters' of Sacramento. So it is imperative to protect these values and continuing the mission of keeping the job good. Steve has a passion for training and working with the next generation. Being able to help shape the narrative while instilling the right stuff into the recruits has made for an enjoyable time as a Drill Instructor. "True Believers" sums up everything that is good about the job and Steve's love for Sacramento. He is careful to protect the job while making sure he does his part in moving it forward. "West Coast" Steve has been coming east coast for some time now working with Eckert Fire Tactics and being afforded the opportunity to share his knowledge and experience with Brothers from the right coast. Steve McClain is not slowing down anytime soon. Protecting the job and making an impact will keep him busy for a long time to come.

JP Sokolowski is a career firefighter with the newly formed Wenatchee Valley Fire Department in Washington state. This picturesque location is now home to two departments joining forces to better serve the public. Taking two different cultures, sets of rules, guidelines and anything else you can think of and then putting them together to make something new will certainly present some challenges. Forging forward, it takes time to build culture. It has to be organic. How do you know who you are when traditions and experiences are just beginning to happen? They are at the beginning of their history so finding themselves and discovering their culture is a huge part of the equation. JP is up for the challenge and in fact, he works hard to help shape the future by focusing on today. He has a passion to teach and inspire which is why he instructs and creates. JP's contribution to the fire service far exceeds the Wenatchee Valley region. He is a successful artist and creator. His social media reach has opened doors across the globe creating new designs, logos and artwork for the fire service. He is helping craft the narrative for culture throughout fire companies by capturing the uniqueness of each company he designs for. So, when JP is not in the firehouse or on the training grounds, he can be found attached to his tablet drawing, designing and building pride for firefighters globally. Mixing both passions has allowed for tremendous growth for himself and it continues to push him each day in making the job better. -- Check out JP on his IG @jp_sokolowski_art

When you show interest and treat people right, it leaves a lasting impression on them. Brandon Strickland, a Battalion Chief with Decatur, AL remembers all to well his chance encounter he had at 8 years old with the local fire department. From that day forth, the groundwork was laid and Brandon knew he wanted to be a firefighter. Through the volunteer service as a teenager, to becoming a Youth Minister early on, Brandon focused on community and service. Pursuing a full time career path was only a matter of time. "You just can't preach the sermon, you have to live it out." These words spoken by Brandon sum up his passion and love for the job and the people we serve. He believes in integrity, a strong moral compass and building those up around you while pushing yourself to always be better. Purpose, Passion, Discipline and Excellence. Four talking points that drive home Brandon's commitment to the fire service are front and center in this episode. Continuing his strive for excellence, he is the program chair and lead instructor for the Alabama Smoke Divers, a program designed to push specific individuals to push their physical and mental abilities in moving this job forward. Brandon's commitment is undeniable and he is certainly unapologetic that he loves the job!!

"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!!

Grip and Rip!! Rob and Jeremy dive into personal accountability and how it relates to the good, the bad and the ugly of leadership. -- Email the Show!! [email protected]

20 years later and the scars of February 20, 2003 still remain present in so many lives. This is a replay episode from 2022 in which we sat down with Jason Erban at RagTop Industries and captured his story which included responding to the Station Nightclub fire 20 years ago. A moving and powerful story by someone I truly admire in the fire service. -- Today we sat down for a special interview on location at RagTop Industries with Retired Warwick RI Lieutenant Jason Erben. Jason’s career in Warwick spanned 21 years where he retired as the Lieutenant of Special Hazards 1. We hit on family influence from Jason’s Father being a retired Battalion Chief, PTSD, growing up in the fire service, and the accomplishments of his career. But one event stands out and Jason shares with us the story of a bitterly cold night in February of 2003 when the alarm rang in for the Station Nightclub. February 20th of 2003 would prove to be one of many pivotal fires in Jason’s career and during our time he touches on the superhuman response of that evening, his family's involvement, and why sharing this experience is crucial in keeping the memory of those we lost from this incident alive. Jason recently found himself being called back to the job and has since started a second career with New London Fire (CT), is an instructor with Eckert Fire Tactics, Vector Rescue, and the Rhode Island Fire Academy as a Tech Rescue Instructor. This episode is one you won’t want to miss.

When things get complicated... When we run with well trained firefighters day in and day out, the role of Command can become quite routine. Routine can become complacency, complacency can kill. When things get complicated is not the time to put your lackluster performance to the test. Command staff needs to be on their game each and every time they go out the door. The level of expectation that our people have for accountability and protection from our command staff is unmatched. We expect our incident commanders to be able to work on instinct supported by a firm structure. There is an art to running a well coordinated fire and Nick Martin certainly is OCD about it. As the Chief of Operations for Salisbury, NC Fire Department, Nick has put together a program that keeps the Chief training just like the rest of the department. Command is an integral part of the system and needs to be practiced and deployed always. Ensuring competency on the fire ground and confidence from your people requires the IC to be dialed in. Nick is passionate and well informed when it comes to discussing commanding the fire ground. He travels often speaking on the topic as well as running Combat Ready Fire Training and producing polished social media content to reinforce his beliefs in the job. He is a value resource and is hyper focused on making the job better. --- Check out Nick Martin at www.combatreadyfire.com or shoot him an email at [email protected]

The fire department has taught Tyler Whitfield so many things other than fighting fire. Laundry, cooking and making coffee are skills he did not possess prior to the fire service. With 9 years in the fire service, 6 with Clearwater, FL, Tyler had never had to do those things prior to living in the firehouse. You just don't know what you don't know. Whether it's hooking ceilings or making a fresh pot, the fire department offers an opportunity to learn all aspects of life. It requires patience and mentors. Becoming proficient in the current position before moving on is imperative to Tyler. Today, he finds himself in positions that often are filled by more senior firefighters. But as the job trends younger, these positions still need to be filled and so he has made it his mission to learn everything he can so that he is proficient before moving on. How can you be an engine boss if your own skills are lacking?? Supervising a crew while focusing on your job requires confidence and know how. It takes practice and it takes heart. Tyler has both. Outside of the firehouse, he is the President of the Cigar City FOOLS, works with the County Technical Rescue Team and works with new hires. With his relentless passion for everything fire, Tyler is in the perfect spot to effect change. Recognizing those coming into the job might have some know how and experience, Tyler believes we need to harness that instead of breaking the individual down. Capture their life skills and experience and make it work to the benefit of the department. If the Candidate knows how to flow water, then Tyler can at least teach them how to do their laundry, cook and make the best dam coffee on the job. All of it matters and Tyler believes in paying it forward and making the job (and its' people) better!! -- Continue the conversation with Tyler Whitfield at [email protected]

Small town roots run deep, very deep. Joe Palumbo, Sr. lives in Pennsauken, NJ, volunteered for Pennsauken, NJ and recently retired from Pennsauken, NJ. His love of the community lead him down the road of finding the fire service. Volunteering in 1994 was a great time to be a fireman in Pennsauken, NJ. Jobs were bountiful and the hook was instant. Joe knew firefighting was going to be his career. After a few stops along the way, Joe found himself hired by his hometown department. He has hit many milestones after 28 years in the fire service, including being the first career Chief for the township. He is certainly proud of the history and culture that is present within the department. But this didn't come with ease. There were tremendous growing pains over the years while transitioning from a large volunteer model to today's combination department. The process was bumpy and not without struggles. Looking back, Joe reflects on how the department was "losing our relevance to the community" and that change was needed. He credits so many that he served with along the way as to why the current fire protection within the township is where it is today. Acknowledging his own sacrifices though, Joe now knows that being caught up in every aspect of the small town fabric certainly can take its' toll. Proud of his accomplishments and where the department is today, Chief of Department Joe Palumbo, Sr. retired at the end of 2022. As he continues to visit the firehouse to share a cup of coffee, it is now his turn to provide the storytelling while keeping the history alive. Educating the next generation about the foundation of this proud department is imperative so that the buy in remains strong. After all these years, Joe's legacy will live on through those that he touched along the way. His demeanor and steadfast approach makes Joe Palumbo, Sr. a stand out. He now gets to watch his son take the reins and continue on the family tradition within the town they love, Pennsauken, NJ

Captain of Planning and Research was never really in the forward vision of Nick Papa's career. He enjoyed being an engine boss and going to fires. He enjoys the personal growth of himself and his crew when they work the fire ground. However, comfort can be a conundrum. Looking for opportunity and future growth, stepping into the role of the Captain of Planning and Research in the New Britain, CT Fire Department took Nick out of his comfort zone and thrusted him into a position that he is enjoying. This new position has allowed Nick to focus on the other aspects of the job that he might not of had the opportunity to learn. His ability to structure their first inhouse recruit academy was a huge win for the department. Nick is now in a larger, more influential position within the department that can affect larger scale change. Protecting the core principals and culture of the department is important and he can ensure that this is prevalent each day when mentoring the next generation. His passion for furthering his own education opens the door for new possibilities in which he can now pass along to his Brothers and Sisters. All of these items coupled with learning the administration side of the job will give Nick the necessary tools to be better. Uncomfortable keeps you learning. Taking a chance on something new is a challenge Nick Papa welcomes. In the course of a career, a quick stop over can be instrumental in personal growth and being a better firefighter and boss. Absorb as much as you can so that you make your time count. Nick is doing just that. -- Check out Nick Papa at www.firesidetraining.org or reach out to him at [email protected]. He is a powerful instructor and a published author adding tremendous value to the fire service.

Today Rob sits down with Ithica, NY Firefighter Russell Vidler. Russ is an Army Veteran who was looking for the camaraderie and brotherhood he found serving and found it in the fire department. His natural love for fitness found him now teaching the physical fitness program of the NYS Career Recruit Academy in Montour Falls NY. We talk about fitness, PTSD between the Fire Department and Military and how to be a good husband and father.

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...

A loyal family man and the life of the party, Rich Stack is just one of those guys who you enjoy being around. His funny antics and sparkling eyes makes him stand out amongst the crowd. His passion for the job and his confidence in himself and his people make Rich a great Boss. Currently assigned as a covering Lieutenant, Rich is on his 22nd year with the Chicago Fire Department. His early days of volunteering with his father set Rich up for wanting to become a career firefighter. After many attempts, his dream became reality and he hasn't looked back. Working in busy companies, Rich gained plenty of experience and knowledge. Teaching for the Illinois Fire Service Institute (IFSI), On-Scene Training Solutions, Affordable Drill Towers and a few other organizations, Rich knows training matters. But even the best can get jammed up in a fire. Rich discusses a close call he had on January 6, 2014 in which he found himself in a precarious position. Rich was able to walk away but it left him struggling with his "experience" that day. Working in the busiest company, teaching, walking tall with experience and yet he got jammed up. "It wasn't supposed to happen." Rich discusses the situation and the aftermath of how he dealt with it. The job is full of ups and downs and sometimes we find ourselves smack dab in the middle of it. Rich Stack is friend, Brother and someone I admire. His willingness to share and reflect on his career will certainly help many other firefighters who might struggle with similar situations. Rich makes this job better.

After 22 years with the FDNY, Lt. Steve Gillespie needed a change of scenery. His career spanned with busy companies throughout the Bronx, the majority of his time spent with Squad 41. Finding his way to the Squad Company allowed for Steve to grow as a firefighter, mentored by some of the best firefighters he has ever met. But the position also exposed him alot of the down side of the job as well. Dealing with trauma and tragic incidents such as several LODD fires including September 11, 2001, Steve realized he needed more than just the kitchen table to help him cope with his past experiences. Finding an outlet and changing the scenery led him to retiring from the FDNY and moving to SC to become the Training Captain of the North Charleston, SC Fire Department. This change of pace and distance away from New York City let him focus on himself and the mental and physical healing he needed. Always missing the job up north, Steve found ways to manage his struggles and still remained in love with his childhood passion. Today, he is fully retired and teaches across the country. His immediate focus is on mental health and "Surviving the Job". His class discussed Steve's battles and offers ways to communicate and deal with the daily stresses of the job. "You never know the weight of something until you don't have to carry it anymore." His class is part of his own healing and working with different organizations helps him each day as he shares his story and experiences in hope of reaching others. Steve Gillespie doesn't regret his experiences and the damage that comes with being a firefighter. He does know that not focusing on his own well being could've had a very different outcome. His passion for the job and the Brotherhood keeps him going and allows him to help others even after his second retirement from the job. --- If you want to continue the conversation, you can reach Steve Gillespie at [email protected].

A trending term in the fire service, "Ate Up" accurately defines Ben Wilson. Being "Ate Up" is everything... everything about the fire service. From sun up to sundown and even in his sleep, Ben loves the job and everything that comes along with it. His high energy, infectious love for the job began riding shotgun with Dad in the Chief's Buggy at a young age. From there, every step of the process had him hooked. Going on his 16th year, 9 as a career firefighter in Fauquier County, VA, he is in the sweet spot of relating and understanding the new kids in the firehouse to having a deep appreciation and respect for the senior man. His methods are "goofy" and so is his personality, but that's what makes Ben a standout. Concepts like "Treat the FD like a Gang" or "Be a Fireman, not a Spectator" are just two themes he dives in on. Ben is all in and he wants everyone else around him to be as well. Disconnect?? Grab a puzzle and have the fellas sit down and figure it out together. He's creative, he's a sales man and an operator. Because his passion excites him, be chose to put himself out there and share his passion and experience with the world. Accepting ownership of who he is and his experience, Ben shares alot of it on his Instagram account, @F.D.I.R. Ben has so much in front of him and nothing is going to slow down his drive and excitement. Spend some time with him and you will be better for it. People with an infectious attitude and passion cannot be stopped. Look out for Ben Wilson.

Jeremy ends up on the other side of the microphone for the 24/48 Podcast.

From early in Gary Spohn's life, he can remember Gamewell Alarm Box #2641 as he walked passed it each day. This symbol of the American fire service captured his interest and attention to the point that years later, Gary has become a renowned collector of everything Gamewell. This episode breaks down some of the history, use and the passion many have for this iconic symbol of firefighting.

34 years in the fire service certainly presents many opportunities along the way. Enjoying the nostalgia, the fires and everything else that comes along with the greatest job in the world has Rusty Ricker still loving the job. But, along his journey he realized that the Brotherhood and comradery of this business is what truly fuels his passion. He is emotional when he thinks back to the memories he has created during his tenure as a firefighter. The storytelling and keeping memories alive pushes Rusty to continue his strong work with the New England FOOLS. A powerful organization with over 350 strong, Rusty stands proud as the President and make shit happen guy. Continual engagement and a love for training still brings together young and old throughout the northeast. He is honored and humbled by each and every interaction and friendship made through the FOOLS. This year is the 20th anniversary of the New England FOOLS and Rusty has been there from the beginning. Watching their organization's success has kept Rusty going full stream ahead. Without the FOOLS influence in his life, doesn't know where he would be. It keeps him grounded and passionate about the job. What else could you ask for after 34 years in the business?? -- Check out Rusty and the New England FOOLS at www.nefools.com or find them on social media.

Overcoming challenges is always a baseline conversation for those that talk about leadership. Lt. Mike Nasti, a 16-year firefighter with the Prince George’s County, MD Fire/EMS Department, loves to talk about leadership and the challenges that he has faced along the way. In order to talk about it, one must walk in the shoes of those who learn from their successes and mistakes. Mike does not shy away from the struggles he has faced, and in fact, credits them for who he is today. Years later, Mike has come to take ownership of his life and has learned that you can mend the past. It take hard work and strong character to overcome obstacles and along the way, learn a thing or two. Today, Mike is confident and holds his head high based upon his achievements and successes. He has recently launched a new podcast cast and social media platform that focuses on leadership. Lessons learned has help Mike craft a narrative so other might learn from his past. Tip of the Spear Leadership is his new focus and has incredible potential to carry on his message about character and legacy. -- Check out Tip of the Spear Leadership podcast and social media on all the players or reach out to Lt. Mike Nasti at [email protected].