National Fire Radio Podcast Platform

n this episode, Jeremy sits down with Deputy Chief Tom Wiezcerzak, the commanding officer overseeing Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) operations at Newark Liberty International Airport—one of the busiest and most complex aviation environments in the world. Tom breaks down the enormous responsibility of protecting thousands of passengers a day, managing responses to everything from indicator lights and hot brakes to engine failures, bird strikes, and large-scale emergencies.But the conversation reaches far deeper than operations. Tom opens up about faith, humility, and servant leadership as the cornerstones of his approach to the fire service. He talks about staying grounded, being accountable for your decisions, and the importance of surrounding yourself with people who will call you out, refocus you, and help you grow. Together, he and Jeremy discuss what it means to be a good person first and a good firefighter second, how character shapes leadership, and why continuous education and honest communication are essential to earning trust—whether with firefighters, administrators, or the public.They reflect on career paths, the weight of command, and the emotional aftermath of aviation tragedies, including the recent UPS crash that took the life of pilot Dana Diamond, a respected advocate within the ARFF community. Tom explains how moments like that sharpen the mission, reinforce preparedness, and remind every responder of the sacred obligation they carry.From high-hazard operations to personal values, from professional evolution to the impact of mentorship and friendship, this episode is a compelling look at leadership, purpose, and the heart of the fire service—set against the backdrop of one of the most demanding response environments in America.

Another Street Talk, this time recorded at Manhattan's Dublin House on the Upper West Side. In this episode, Mickey discusses lithium-ion battery fires in commercial occupancies — what we’re seeing in the field, why these fires are escalating rapidly, and how first due companies need to approach them with a different tempo and disciplined tactics.

This episode dives deep into the extraordinary career and impact of Jack Murphy—fire marshal, educator, code advocate, author, and one of the foremost voices in high-rise fire safety and building intelligence. Through storytelling, lessons learned, and decades of lived experience, Jack walks us through the evolution of the modern fire service and the crucial role relationships, communication, and mentorship have played in shaping it.From his early beginnings influenced by family legacy to becoming a national leader in fire code development, Jack highlights how personal connections and community ties remain at the heart of effective emergency response. He shares the challenges of enforcing fire safety in an increasingly complex built environment and explains how collaboration between firefighters, building officials, and industry partners is essential to true community risk reduction.Jack recounts pivotal moments in his career—from massive events like Woodstock ’94 to the profound lessons that emerged from September 11th—showing how those experiences reshaped the fire service’s approach to preparedness, high-rise command, and incident management. Central to his message is the value of building intelligence and tools such as Building Information Cards, pre-incident planning, and Quick Action Plans, all of which have transformed how firefighters operate in dense urban environments.Throughout the conversation, we explore the global influences on American fire safety, innovations in building technology, and the growing demand for integrated communication and data systems. Jack emphasizes that while technology drives efficiency, the fire service will always rely on the human element: mentorship, leadership, and the relationships forged on and off the fireground.Ultimately, this episode is a masterclass in legacy. Jack Murphy reminds us that the future of the fire service depends on continuous education, sharing knowledge, embracing innovation, and preserving the traditions and pride that built the profession. His insights offer a clear roadmap for today’s leaders and tomorrow’s firefighters as they navigate an ever-changing operational landscape.

In this episode, Jeremy sits down with Jim Webb, the senior man of his home firehouse and a 53-year member of the Franklin Lakes Volunteer Fire Department. From growing up in River Edge around his father’s firehouse to carrying on his grandfather’s FDNY Ladder 8 legacy, Jim walks us through a lifetime in the American volunteer fire service—back when yellow Maxims, tailboard riding, long coats, and hip boots were the norm and the siren meant the whole town was running to the firehouse, not just checking their phones.Jeremy and Jim trade stories about memorable jobs like the Franklin Lakes Building Supply fire and the Cider Mill, riding the back step, and the days when engines left the house packed with firefighters hanging off every grab bar. They talk about the social fabric of the firehouse—Old Timers dinners, Santa runs, long nights of cards and conversation—and how that camaraderie built the brotherhood so many of us still chase today.Jim also shares his 40-year career as a civil engineer with Con Edison in New York City, including his connection to the 1975 New York Telephone fire and his time at Ground Zero after 9/11, and how infrastructure, incident command, and the fire service all intersected in his world. From there, the conversation turns to where we are now: recruitment vs. retention, overworking our senior members, the power of simple one-on-one appreciation, and why “fix your house before you invite anyone over” matters for every volunteer department trying to survive.Along the way, they remember influential mentors like the legendary Jack Willer and talk about why National Fire Radio exists in the first place—to capture and preserve the stories of the senior man before they fade away. If you grew up in a firehouse, or you’re trying to rebuild one today, this is a sit-down at the kitchen table you don’t want to miss.

In this episode, Mickey sits down with Capt. Mike Grey — a recently retired FDNY captain who led both Probationary Firefighter School and Ladder 19 in the Bronx. Two positions that carry real weight in this job.They get into everything: leadership, loyalty, friendship, self-doubt, and how all of it shows up on and off the fire floor. It’s real, it’s honest, and it’s the kind of conversation you only get between individuals who love this job unconditionally.

In this episode Jeremy and I sit down over a few cold beers to delve into the world of leadership and the critical traits and skills that define effective leaders in high-stakes environments, examine the concept of "Firefighter IQ," and discuss the ever-growing influence of social media on the firefighting community.

Episode 441, Gas Tank Trips, brings back Shimek from Conversation Is Ventilation for another one of Jeremy’s on-air therapy sessions that a lot of us secretly need.What starts as a laugh about Jeremy’s new studio and his wall of t-shirts quickly turns into a deep dive on purpose, fulfillment, and why so many firefighters stop having fun as they get older on the job. Shimek breaks down his idea of “gas tank trips” – filling the tank, picking a direction, staying off the interstate, and just going – as a metaphor for unplugging, being present, and saying yes to unplanned experiences with your family, your crew, or even by yourself.Jeremy opens up about being buried by life, trying to balance work, family, and the firehouse, and realizing he needs more of those simple, intentional getaways with his wife and kids. The two talk about avoiding the bitter, disgruntled firefighter trap, the responsibility of the senior man to tell stories and pass it on, and how powerful it is to be honest, vulnerable, and just 1% better than yesterday.From t-shirt walls and peanut butter-and-jelly “Shimek” sandwiches to heavy talk about mental load, happiness, and connection, this episode is a reminder to put the phone down, hit the two-lane roads, and start having fun on purpose again.

In this episode, Jeremy reconnects with longtime friend and Buffalo Fire Department Captain (and soon-to-be Battalion Chief) Sean Eagen for a wide-open, honest conversation about the fire service, personal growth, and the realities of the job after nearly three decades on the line.Sean shares the changes in his own life—stepping back from brewery work, rediscovering balance, dialing in his health, and gearing up for promotion after 28 years in the street. The two dive deep into topics that hit home for a lot of firefighters today: getting older in the fire service, managing fatigue, accountability, physical conditioning, and the discipline it takes to stay sharp when the job is trending younger than ever.They break down fireground operations in Buffalo: truck work, vent positions, riding assignments, staffing challenges, operational consistency, rooftop work, exposure protection, and the importance of clear expectations for younger firefighters. Sean talks through recent fires, lessons learned, and the mindset required to make aggressive but smart decisions on the fireground.The conversation also hits culture—how social media has changed attitudes, how accountability has shifted, and why experience, humility, and heart still matter more than looking the part. It’s two veterans pulling the curtain back on what the job really takes: conditioning, knowledge, discipline, teamwork, and the ability to learn and lead through every stage of your career.

In this quick episode, Mickey breaks down the line between the details we teach in training and the instincts that actually carry you on the fire floor. The discipline matters, the details matter but when the shit is on and the lights are out experience and instinct takes over.From victim removal to advancing the first line, Mickey cuts through the nonsense and gets to the truth the job — it isn’t about perfect form, or what the data tells.  It’s about getting the job done under real fireground stress. 

Jeremy sits down with Battalion Chief Dan Czaruk for an outstanding conversation that cuts right to the heart of today’s fire service: leadership, mentorship, communication, culture, and the responsibility we all share to build up the next generation.Dan talks about starting his career at 19, terrified but eager, and the mentors who shaped his path. Jeremy and Dan dig into the idea of information gatekeeping — why it happens, how it hurts us, and why today’s young firefighters are hungry for knowledge and deserve leaders who are willing to share it.The two explore generational differences, the balance between old-school expectations and modern learning styles, and the importance of creating a firehouse environment where questions are welcomed rather than viewed as challenges. Dan lays out what it means to “meet people halfway,” deliver clear expectations, and allow firefighters to take initiative instead of operating in a permission-based culture.They also touch on company officer development, setting the tempo, investing in your crews, eliminating ego, and building a culture of trust where everyone understands their role and feels valued. Dan explains how his department’s in-house academy helps shape not just skills, but character — and why impact, not titles, is what creates true legacy.

Paul Conway, a third-generation firefighter, former Milwaukee, WI Chief of Operations, founder of Conway Shield, and host of Beyond the Shield, joins Jeremy for a candid and powerful conversation about legacy, leadership, and the modern fire service. Together they explore how social media clips can distort context, why culture shapes performance inside every department, and how the “winners, average, and losers” framework challenges firefighters and officers to raise the bar.Paul shares his evolution from a hard-charging firefighter to a reflective leader whose perspective has been shaped by experience, loss, faith, and maturity. He talks about the importance of owning your choices, striving to improve a little each day, and recognizing the duty to live so that firefighters come home to their families and crews.The discussion dives into leadership, accountability, and the difference between being in charge and being one of the guys. They talk about fitness, mental resilience, and the need for personal responsibility on and off the job. Jeremy and Paul also challenge the tendency to romanticize the past, reminding listeners that while tradition matters, progress and innovation are essential to keeping the job moving forward.The episode closes with a message about having a seat at the table and influencing the direction of the fire service, rather than leaving decisions to those who do not understand the work. Paul also explains why he launched Beyond the Shield and how it gives him a way to share wisdom and keep honest, meaningful conversations alive.Paul Conwaywww.conwayshield.com

A new venture from View From the Top Floor — short, unfiltered clips straight from the driver’s seat. No script, no edits, just raw thoughts from the road.In this episode, Mickey talks about the FAST Truck and RIT team — the reality behind the assignment, the mindset, and the responsibility that comes with it. It’s about preparation, awareness, and execution when it really matters. 

Jeremy sits down with Battalion Chief Kyle Romagus (East Montgomery County, TX; Smoothbore Cartel) for a straight-shooting conversation about engine company work and why simplicity wins. Kyle explains his “fire in a box” mindset, the priority of putting the probie on the nozzle, and how to teach firefighters to think—especially on three-person engines. They dig into black fire (underventilated, high-heat, low-oxygen conditions), gallons-per-second thinking for faster line selection, and the need to narrow options so crews execute without hesitation. Kyle talks staying in your lane, journaling after fires, and moving the credentialing “book” to match the street. It’s a nerdy, no-nonsense hour packed with tactics, training culture, and a push for the next generation to read, write, and lead.

Jeremy sits down with Tim Walsh, retired Chief of Special Operations from the Chicago Fire Department, longtime instructor at IFSI, and now Deputy Chief of Operations in Burbank, Illinois.From starting as a 16-year-old cadet to serving more than three decades in one of the nation’s busiest cities, Tim shares real lessons on mentorship, leadership, and building a blue-collar fire service culture. He talks about the Chicago “quick water” mindset, the city’s iconic two-piece squads, and why the crew, the rig and the house should guide every leader’s day.The conversation hits on the reality of command, the politics that shape departments, and the need for training that stays accessible and ego-free. It’s a grounded talk about people, purpose, and carrying the job forward.“This is a people business. If you don’t like people, the fire service isn’t for you.” — Tim Walsh

Mickey sits down with Jeremy for a real conversation about the American fire service — the good, the bad, and everything in between. No script, no fluff, just two firemen talking about what they see, what they miss, and what still matters. Honest, unfiltered, and straight from the a heart. 

Tom Merrill, the author of The Professional Volunteer Fire Department and podcast host on Fire Engineering Radio, joins Jeremy on the show for Episode 435. Tom’s passion is the volunteer fire service and his book breaks down the unique dynamic of the volunteer fire service. Jeremy and Tom talk about the concept of retention over recruitment, leadership, the dedication and expectations of volunteer firefighters. This episode has a lot packed into it and is a must listen for those interested in discussing trending topics affecting the volunteer fire service. Lastly, as if it was scripted, Jeremy had to cut short the episode due to a second alarm fire in his first due. Tom and Jeremy finished the episode the next day…. The perfect situation for describing the volunteer fire service. Putting life on hold, running out the door to go to work!! Check out The Professional Volunteer Fire Department, a must have book for all volunteer fire chiefs and departments. Tom Merrill can be reached at [email protected].

Another round of “therapy” with Chris Shimek, Jeremy’s ‘therapist”. Shimek has been on the show multiple times and these episodes tend to go down a different path that the regular podcast episodes. Talking real life issues coupled with laughter and life lesson insights, Shimek and Jeremy find their conversations always therapeutic.  

This week, another street talk from Manhattan‘s Washington Square Park, Mickey dives into one of the most misunderstood responsibilities on the fireground: how the Outside Vent firefighter enters the window. It’s not random momentum or blind commitment—there’s technique, tempo, and intention behind every move. We break down body position, control, and how to use that skill to your advantage without compromising orientation, flow path, or search integrity.

Jeremy and Dave Gallagher explore the importance of connection, mentorship, and the evolving challenges within the fire service. They discuss the significance of quality training, the need for depth over breadth in knowledge, and the commitment required to succeed in firefighting. The conversation also highlights the importance of capturing the stories and experiences of seasoned firefighters to pass on to future generations, emphasizing the value of tradition and camaraderie in the fire service.

In this weeks conclusion with Pete Partridge, the conversation delves into the complexities of the fire service, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive learning, practical experience, and mentorship. They discusses the limitations of social media as a learning tool, the necessity of understanding the broader context of firefighting, and the critical role of experience in effective leadership. The dialogue also highlights the significance of networking and mentorship in the fire service, the adaptability required in firefighting tactics, and the deep sense of brotherhood that characterizes the profession. Ultimately, the conversation calls for a commitment to preserving the legacy and values of the fire service for future generations.

Patrick Wirkus joins Jeremy in the studio for today’s episode. A Battalion Chief with the Elizabeth, NJ Fire Department, Patrick has 13 years with the department and serves in an administration role currently with the department. His passion is for the Fireground and he often finds himself getting in on work across the city and surrounding jurisdictions. He recognizes the importance of having a seat at the table and crafting administration programs that can help with the growth of the department. He is attending the National Fire Academy and is working towards his EFO. Pulling from his roots of riding with busy companies, he is aware of fireground dynamics and is passionate about including Division Officers during fires. Patrick has created Division Command Training and is speaking about this important topic. Balancing family, the fire department and a new business, his plate is full but he recognizes the importance of time management and “balance”. Patrick Wirkus can be reached at info@divisioncommandtraining,.com. 

In this episode, Mickey discusses the concept of transitional attack in firefighting, emphasizing its implications on fireground coordination and firefighter safety. He critiques the reliance on outside water as a default tactic, arguing that it disrupts the tempo and coordination necessary for effective firefighting. Mickey advocates for position-based firefighting, highlighting the importance of protecting interior access points and maintaining a disciplined approach to fire attacks. He concludes by urging firefighters to rely on common sense and teamwork rather than overcomplicating tactics.

Jeremy and Matthew Bays delve into the critical themes of mentorship, training, and the evolving culture within the fire service. They discuss the importance of clear expectations, the challenges of attracting talent to high-performing firehouses, and the need for a positive training environment. Matt shares insights on the systematic approach to training new recruits, emphasizing the significance of building skills to become second nature. The discussion also touches on the generational differences in training methods, the role of patience in personal growth, and the necessity of maintaining high standards in firefighting. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the importance of trust, effective communication, and the value of learning from mistakes in the fire service.

In this episode, Larry Di Camillo discusses his recent retirement after over 35 years of service, including his role as a fire chief. He reflects on the importance of shared vision and collaboration within the fire department, emphasizing the need for open communication and feedback. Larry shares insights on the evolution of fire apparatus and the challenges of maintaining operational efficiency while adapting to new trends. He also talks about his consulting work with C-Side Consulting, where he continues to engage with fire departments across the country, sharing his expertise and helping them improve their operations.

In this episode of View from the Top Floor, Mickey is on the road in Reno, Nevada, where he breaks down “the area of refuge,” what it means, where it’s found, and why it matters. Too often, it’s a tactic that’s misunderstood or overlooked, but it can mean the difference between control and chaos for the inside team.

The Shimek has become a regular on the show and Jeremy's therapist. Another great session talking about food, The First-In Fire Conference and the "Third In Mindset".

Operating on the Highway at Accidents — One of the most dangerous firegrounds we face isn’t inside a burning building, it’s on the highway. In this shot episode, Mickey explains why roadway operations are so deadly, the stats on line-of-duty deaths, and some common sense to keep you and your company alive and available for our next fire. 

This conversation Ray McCormack joins Mickey in Wildwood New Jersey as they dive into the evolving landscape of the fire service, focusing on the importance of tradition, culture, and training. They discuss how these elements are crucial for maintaining standards and ensuring effective operations. They also emphasize the need for strong leadership and communication within firehouses, as well as the significance of understanding the details in firefighting techniques. The dialogue also touches on the challenges posed by modern practices, such as dry stretching, and the necessity of preserving the rich history and traditions of the fire service.

This episode is a portion of Jeremy’s new program titled, “Winners Win”, A Program by a Recovering Loser. Presented at the First In Fire Conference in Little Rock, AR on September 12, 2025, this segment of the complete program discusses accountability, leadership and going all in. The entire program will be posted at a later date.

In this episode of "Frontline Mindset," host Rob sits down with Luci Labriola-Cuffe, Deputy State Fire Administrator for New York State. Luci shares her inspiring journey from childhood experiences with fire emergencies to becoming a trailblazer in the fire service. They discuss the challenges and triumphs of leadership, the importance of mental health in first responders, and the evolving landscape of fire service training and community risk reduction. Tune in for an insightful conversation about resilience, accountability, and the future of firefighting.

From Recruit Construction to Work Life Balance, this episode between Jeremy and The Shimek is becoming a weekly therapy session for Jeremy. Alot of great nuggets in this episode.

In this episode, Mickey breaks down the term “taxpayer” in its truest form—where it came from, what it really means, and why it still matters on today’s fireground. From cellar fires to cockloft conditions, taxpayers demand a different level of awareness and discipline. We’ll dive into survival techniques, tactical considerations, and the realities of operating in commercial buildings where one wrong step can change the outcome. This isn’t theory—it’s street-level talk on how to stay alive and stay effective when the game shifts from residential to commercial.

Bobby Eckert joins Jeremy on the podcast for episode 426. The leader of Eckert Fire Tactics, his passion cannot be denied when it comes to his commitment to training firefighters. Focusing on realistic training, Bobby and his crew are known for going all in on their students. Bobby has never been one to shy away from hard conversations and addressing the toxicity in the fire service. Admittedly, he has had personal struggles that he has had to focus on and he is making progress everyday. His willingness to be frank about what he has been dealing with can certainly help others who might be in a similar situation. Being so public, it certainly shines a light on him whether he wants it or not. Just like his training perspective, if his real life situations and lessons can help another firefighter, he is all in. A long time friend and early guest on the podcast back in August 2018, Bobby continues to make an impact on the fire service. 

Richard Ray, a Battalion Chief with the Durham, NC Fire Department and long time volunteer firefighter talks with Jeremy about his recent article in Fire Engineering magazine. His passion for the fire service spans decades and he reminisces about his early years being influenced by his grandfather and then, his father. Today, his children are now the fourth generation in the fire service and Richard is proud of the family’s love for the fire service. Thinking back to a time when he became and instructor, an encounter with Andy Fredericks set the table for his passion for teaching and making an impact on others. 

Mickey sits down to talk about the weight of memorials in our fire houses. He stresses the responsibility of maintaining them, knowing the stories of the brothers who came before us, and teaching the next generation that September 11th is not a celebration — it’s a day of remembrance.

Mickey sits down with Etan Blatt from the 34.3 Foundation — an organization built on honoring sacrifice, restoring pride, and giving new life to firefighters who may feel lost. The conversation dives into the rebirth the Foundation offers for those searching for purpose, while also showing the newest members of the FDNY what it truly means to be a New York City firefighter. They talk about patriotism through the lens of September 12 — the day after, when resilience and brotherhood defined the job — and how those lessons still carry weight today. Etan and Mickey also break down the 34.3 Foundation Run: the powerful tradition of running from Long Beach to the Trade Center on September 11, as well as the new 3.43-mile run in Long Beach — both uniting the community, raising support, and keeping the spirit alive.This episode is about tradition, rebirth, and the responsibility we all carry to keep the standard alive.

Jeremy and Deputy Chief Thomas Wieczerak walk around Rescue Co. 8 at Newark Liberty International Airport. This apparatus was a new concept and build for the Port Authority of Ny & NJ. Operating as a structural engine and outfitted for rescue operations, Rescue Co. 8 has been a welcomed addition to the fleet on the airfield. For more information, check out the From Framerails to Finish film series featuring this Pierce Rescue from  @FireandSafetyNJ  .

Jeremy and Mickey sit down together on the porch where the conversation revolves around the concept of firefighter IQ and the importance of deep understanding and thinking in the fire service. They discuss the need for firefighters to go beyond just performing repetitive tasks and instead focus on developing a deeper understanding of the job. They emphasize the value of lectures and learning from experienced firefighters, as well as the importance of analyzing fire videos and using social media as a tool for education. The guys also discuss the significance of work ethic, attention to detail, and letting your tools do the talking.

"Go get the jug" refers to a container that holds rope and it's used to measure the stretch or ladder throws when taking time to walk the neighborhood. The saying has a rooted meaning that the opportunity for training can be as simple as walking the neighborhood with a piece of rope and we can capitalize on making the company better. Rich Stack, currently a Deputy District Chief and the Assistant Director of Training for the Chicago Fire Department knows the importance of simple drills. Finding time for training is important to Rich. His passion for protecting the core values of the Chicago Fire Department is strong, but, admittedly, the need for change in some regards presents issues when trying to implement. Rich talks about the recent General Order that came out which was widely discussed across the fire service. He discusses the implementation of these changes and how it continues to be a work in progress. Rich is excited to get back to the firehouse, back to the rank of Captain as his tenure at the academy comes to a close. His love of the job is evident in everything he does and his impact can be felt not just in the Chicagoland, but nationally. He works with On-Scene Training and his own company, Duty Pride Tradition Training. Even with over 25 years in the fire service, Rich continues to grow into the job while bringing those around him along for the ride. His humor and love of life is infectious and I'm honored to call him a friend. 

In this engaging conversation, Battalion Chief Brian Bastinelli takes us through his fire service journey — from early influences to mastering the fundamentals that build a strong career. He shares how mental preparation, mentorship, and a commitment to the basics shaped his path from firefighter to leader. Brian discusses the challenges and rewards of leadership, the power of using video for self-improvement, and the importance of clear communication and decisive action in high-pressure situations. Whether you’re a new recruit or a seasoned officer, his experiences offer valuable lessons on growth, resilience, and leadership in the fire service.

Jeremy is joined by Captain Johnson and Senior Firefighter Hidalgo for some front bumper chatter during our filming of "From Framerails to Finish", a joint film project with  @FireandSafetyNJ  .

This week’s episode, Bob Pressler joins Mickey once again to break down his 1997 Fire Engineering article, “ROOF OPERATIONS: LIGHTWEIGHT TRUSSES AND VARIATIONS.” It’s a topic that’s been debated for years, often misunderstood, and still causes confusion today. Bob clears it up the way only he can — direct, detailed, and from experience.

Jeremy is joined by Captain William Johnson, Jr and Probationary Firefighter Ivan Quiles of Engine Co. 8 ss they sit around the cigar table in quarters. There is a tremendous amount of history and storytelling that has happened around this table. Grateful for the opportunity.__Engine Co. 8 was featured in the  @FireandSafetyNJ  film series, From Framerails to Finish.

Another street talk, this time from Roamary’s Cafe in the West Village of Manhattan, where Mickey discusses the critical role of outside vent (OV) firefighters in coordinated attacks during firefighting operations. Emphasizing the importance of timing and the PRIMARY mission of searching for life, the conversation explores how OV firefighters should adapt their strategies based on real-time conditions rather than strictly adhering to textbook methods. Mickey shares personal rules and insights gained from experience, highlighting the need for flexibility and situational awareness in high-pressure environments.

Jeremy welcomes back Chris “The Shimek”, of the @ConversationisVentilation  podcast and have a free-flowing conversation about slowing down, unplugging, and reconnecting — with yourself, your crew, and the world around you. From people-watching at the airport to long road trips in his van “Howie,” Shimek shares stories about finding perspective, embracing silence, and making space for meaningful engagement. The two dig into mentorship, mental health, and building camaraderie in and out of the firehouse, all while trading laughs and life lessons. Whether it’s taking the long way home or starting ‘man scouts’ in the woods, this episode is a reminder to enjoy the ride and connect with the people who matter.👉 Take this conversation back to the firehouse and talk about it. Because when we’re talking about the job, we’re making the job better.🔥 Thanks for tuning in to this episode of National Fire Radio!We’re more than just a podcast — we’re a movement, connecting the American fire service through conversations about culture, leadership, tradition, and innovation.📱 Follow us on social media:Instagram: @NationalFireRadioFacebook: National Fire RadioYouTube: National Fire RadioTikTok: @NationalFireRadioX (Twitter): @NationalFireRadioLinkedIn: National Fire Radio🎙 Subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform to help us keep growing!

In this episode of Frontline Mindset, Rob sits down with special guest Kyle Strait to explore the culture, identity, and traditions that define firehouses across the nation. From custom station t-shirts and unique patches to the subtle subcultures within each crew, they dig into how pride and ownership show up in the fire service. You’ll hear personal stories and insights on how these traditions not only strengthen camaraderie among firefighters but also deepen the bond with the communities they serve.

In this inspiring episode, Jeremy Donch sits down with Frank Viscuso — retired Deputy Chief from Kearny, NJ, bestselling author, nationally recognized speaker, and the 2025 George D. Post Instructor of the Year — to explore the intersections of leadership, coaching, and personal development. Drawing from over 26 years in the fire service, Viscuso shares invaluable lessons from both the fireground and the baseball diamond, where he has coached youth athletes with the same passion and dedication he brought to his firefighting career.Listeners will hear powerful insights on perspective, resilience, and the ability to learn from both success and failure. Frank discusses the importance of instilling respect in young athletes, valuing the journey over the destination, and using storytelling as a tool for leadership. His career achievements — including authoring seven influential books such as Step Up and Lead and Step Up Your Teamwork, writing over 70 standard operating guidelines, and securing millions in grant funding for life-saving equipment — provide a strong foundation for his leadership philosophy.The conversation dives into effective fire reporting, building and maintaining systems for success, and the role of humility, faith, and positivity in personal growth. Frank’s journey from a young, uncertain rookie to a respected leader and motivator serves as a testament to how adversity can fuel transformation. The episode wraps up with a focus on celebrating others’ successes and fostering a culture of support and excellence within the fire service.

During the "From Framerails to Finsih" episode with Camden, NJ, Jeremy tours the city with Chief of Department Jesse Flax. Their discussion is a great back and forth about the history of the city and the many neighborhoods their department protects. Chief Flax speaks passionately about he cioty he grew up in and has the honor of being the Chief of Department. This interview is from the "From Framerails to Finish" film in partnership with  @FireandSafetyNJ ​