National Fire Radio Podcast Platform

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of the National Fire Radio podcast, Jeremy Donch sits down with Bo Butler for an unfiltered conversation about leadership, integrity, sacrifice, and the true cost of doing what is right. What begins as a discussion rooted in public service and firehouse culture quickly evolves into an honest examination of identity, purpose, and moral conviction.Bo Butler shares his story of being thrust into the national spotlight after taking a public stand as Fire Chief in Londonderry, New Hampshire. Faced with mounting pressure to reduce staffing despite overwhelming voter support for increased fire protection, Bo refused to compromise the safety of his firefighters or the will of the community. That decision ultimately led to his resignation and changed the course of his life. In this episode, Bo opens up about what happened after the cameras turned off and the applause faded, including the personal toll on his family, his career, and his sense of belonging.The conversation explores the weight of leadership and the reality that every decision carries consequences. Bo speaks candidly about regret and resolve, and how both can exist at the same time. He reflects on the pain of walking away from the people he loved most in the fire service and the grief that followed. He also explains why integrity and character were lines he could not cross, even when presented with the opportunity to return and reclaim his position.Jeremy and Bo dive into broader themes that extend far beyond the fire service, including mentorship, faith, accountability, and personal growth. Bo discusses his military service, how faith guided him through adversity, and how purpose and fulfillment became central to his healing after leaving the firehouse. He shares how losing his identity forced him to confront himself, and how that process ultimately led him to a new mission as a Chief People Officer in the private sector, where he continues to lead, mentor, and serve others.This episode is not about tactics or tools. It is about being human. It is about making hard choices when the easy ones would cost you your integrity. It is about family, legacy, mentorship, and the responsibility leaders carry both on and off the job. Most importantly, it is a reminder that character matters, and that doing the right thing often comes at a personal cost, but it is a cost worth paying. This is a conversation every firefighter, leader, and human being can learn from.

Jeremy sits down with retired Newburgh, New York firefighter and chief officer Tim Dexter for an unfiltered and deeply personal conversation about the realities of firefighting in an understaffed urban department. Drawing from seventeen years on the job, Tim shares firsthand insight into what happens when fire companies are browned out, staffing levels are cut, and firefighters are still expected to deliver the same level of service under increasingly dangerous conditions.Tim explains how Newburgh’s aging infrastructure, tightly packed row buildings, and high call volume leave no margin for error on the fireground. With limited staffing and delayed second due companies, firefighters are often forced to make tactical compromises that impact both civilian outcomes and firefighter safety. The conversation explores how politics, grant decisions, and city leadership choices directly affect operations, morale, recruitment, retention, and fire prevention efforts.Now retired, Tim has begun releasing helmet camera footage from incidents he commanded to educate the public and provide undeniable evidence of what firefighters are facing when resources are stripped away. He speaks candidly about the emotional toll of leading fires with no backup coming and why he ultimately chose to retire early rather than risk being responsible for a line of duty death.This episode is a powerful look at the operational reality behind closed and browned out companies and the impossible decisions firefighters are forced to make when the system fails them. It is a conversation about accountability, firefighter safety, and the responsibility to provide communities with the level of protection they believe they are receiving. Take this one back to the firehouse because talking about the job is how we make the job better.

Jeremy sits down with Danny Arroyo, Battalion Chief of Training with the Perth Amboy Fire Department, for a wide-ranging and deeply honest conversation about leadership, training culture, and the evolution of the modern fire service.Danny shares his journey into the fire service, shaped by growing up in a tight-knit urban community and the impact of September 11th, which ultimately set him on a path from dispatcher and EMT to paramedic, firefighter, and now training chief. With over two decades of service, Danny offers a grounded perspective on what it means to serve the same community you were raised in—and the responsibility that comes with it.The discussion dives deep into practical, effective training: why structure matters, how buy-in from leadership and firefighters is essential, and why training should build confidence—not exhaust or endanger firefighters. Danny outlines his philosophy on transparency, long-term planning, and empowering company officers and instructors to take ownership of training at every level.We also explore leadership beyond the fireground—how ego, communication style, and environment shape firefighter behavior. Danny speaks candidly about generational differences, the importance of explaining the “why,” and how creating a culture where people feel safe to speak up can directly translate to safer, more effective operations.

Jeremy sits down with Martin Hunt, founder of Garage, to unpack one of the most pressing challenges facing the modern fire service: how departments buy, sell, and preserve life-saving assets.Martin shares the origin story of Garage; a firefighter-built marketplace designed to connect fire departments across the country and keep apparatus and equipment in service, not scrapped. What started as firsthand frustration with outdated, inefficient surplus processes has grown into a national platform where departments can buy and sell everything from adapters to ladder trucks with transparency, trust, and efficiency.This conversation goes far beyond technology. Martin and Jeremy discuss community, stewardship, and legacy, and how keeping apparatus in service instead of sending it to scrap yards directly benefits firefighters and the communities they protect. From appraisal tools and financing options to freight coordination and maintenance transparency, Garage removes the friction and guesswork that have plagued the used apparatus process for generations.At its core, this episode is about firefighters helping firefighters, preserving the history and value of fire service equipment, and creating solutions that allow departments of every size to operate smarter and stronger in a challenging environment.Innovating the process, Garage has changed the game. They have reinvented the process and their closely protected mission has far exceeded expectations of their growing client list. For more information and to see firsthand how Garage has made an impact, check out www.shopgarage.com.

Jeremy sits down with Nate Rice, Division Chief of Fire Prevention with the Peoria, IL Fire Department, for an in-depth conversation on leadership, culture change, and the true impact of Community Risk Reduction (CRR). With nearly four decades in the fire service, Chief Rice shares his unexpected transition from operations to fire prevention and how embracing CRR transformed both his department and his perspective on service. The discussion explores the balance between reactive firefighting and proactive life-saving efforts, emphasizing data-driven decision-making, smoke alarm programs, firefighter safety, and reducing burnout through smarter deployment of resources. Chief Rice also breaks down how bridging the gap between operations and prevention creates better firefighters, safer buildings, and stronger community trust. This episode challenges traditional thinking, reframes fire prevention as a mission-critical function, and makes the case that Community Risk Reduction isn’t a buzzword—it’s a responsibility that benefits both the public and the firefighters who serve them.

Tyler Whitfield returns to National Fire Radio for a powerful follow-up conversation on growth, leadership, and building high-performing fire companies. Now several years into his role as a promoted company officer with Clearwater Fire & Rescue, Tyler reflects on the transition from informal leader to officer, earning trust, and inheriting a company with a strong culture and high expectations.This episode dives deep into what real leadership looks like on the floor—embracing vulnerability, fostering humility, and putting the success of your people ahead of your own. Tyler explains how consistent, realistic training builds confidence, why small details matter on the fireground, and how honest after-action conversations create buy-in and long-term success.The conversation also explores Tyler’s passion for instruction through The Grab Factory, his residential search training program focused on practical, adaptable tactics for departments of all sizes. From engine-based search considerations to inside/outside truck operations, Tyler shares lessons learned from teaching nationwide and emphasizes the value of networking, shared experiences, and learning from both wins and mistakes.

In this episode, Mickey kicks things off by talking about some of his favorite episodes of 2025 before diving into the FDNY relocation policy and what it really means to operate outside your comfort zone. When you’re relocated and working with unfamiliar companies in unfamiliar buildings, the margin for error increases, and the details matter more than ever. This is a reminder to get back to basics, slow down, and operate with intent. Big city firefighting isn’t universal. Operational standards are local, shaped by buildings, talent, tempo, and experience.

In this From the Front Seat episode, Mickey breaks down why crowding the stairs kills tempo and creates confusion on the fireground. He talks about understanding your position, knowing where you fit in the operation, and why discipline in movement matters just as much as speed.

In this episode of National Fire Radio, Rob Pollack delivers a raw and honest conversation about leadership, accountability, and the evolving culture of today’s fire service. From the firehouse to the fireground, Rob breaks down what’s been lost—and what must be rebuilt—when ownership, humility, and hard conversations are avoided.The discussion explores the challenge of leading across generations, balancing ego with responsibility, and navigating the difficult line between being a boss and a friend. Rob shares real-world examples of how accountability, communication, and people skills directly impact company performance, morale, and trust—long before the tones ever drop.Rob also reflects on his international training experience in Poland, offering a global perspective on training culture, firefighter health, cancer prevention, and innovation. The comparison highlights how different approaches can sharpen our own practices without sacrificing the aggressive, effective nature of American structural firefighting.This episode is a candid reminder that the fire service is built on daily actions, not titles—and that the future depends on leaders willing to listen, mentor, challenge complacency, and protect the culture worth fighting for.

Jeremy sits down with Angela Skudin, founder of the Casey Skudin 343 Fund, to talk about her journey from severe, unexplained illness and chronic pain to reclaiming her health through advocacy, detox-focused wellness, and alternative therapies—including Iboga/Ibogaine and other integrative approaches.Angela shares what it was like being misdiagnosed, pushed toward surgeries that didn’t make sense, and navigating overwhelming medical costs while married to an FDNY firefighter. The conversation turns deeply personal as she describes the tragic loss of her husband, FDNY firefighter Casey Skudin, and how the support shown by first responders in that moment inspired her to build the 343 Fund.The 343 Fund helps first responders and their spouses pursuing treatment for trauma, addiction, TBIs, and cumulative stress, emphasizing that healing isn’t a single event—it’s the integration, coaching, and community support that follows. Angela also explains why this work is gaining momentum nationwide and how firefighters are helping lead that conversation.Learn more or support the mission at 343fund.org.

In this episode, Mickey discusses the critical safety measures that firefighters must take when operating on the fireground. He emphasizes that the safest place is actually one step inside the fire building, away from potential hazards. Mickey also explains the concept of “collapse zones” and the importance of ongoing situational awareness, particularly the need for firefighters to always look up. He stresses the necessity of instilling these safety practices in young firefighters to ensure they are prepared for real-life scenarios. Thumbnail photo @fdnyfirediary 

In this emotional and unfiltered episode, District Chief Nate Morgans of the Tulsa Fire Department sits down to share a story that spans leadership, trauma, addiction, redemption, and the power of truly transformational healing. Nate takes us from his earliest days on the job, through rapid promotions and deployments to Afghanistan and Ukraine, into the hidden battles that nearly cost him everything. After years of functioning at a high level while quietly unraveling, Nate reveals how alcohol became his coping mechanism for anxiety, hypervigilance, and an inner turmoil he didn’t yet understand. DUIs, a demotion, a failing marriage, and suicidal ideations pushed him to a breaking point. He walked through the IAFF Center of Excellence, tried to rebuild, relapsed, and continued searching for a way out of the cycle that gripped his life. The turning point came when Nate discovered Ibogaine therapy, an alternative treatment he now openly champions. He describes how the experience forced him to confront the trauma, ego, and emotional patterns driving his addiction—providing clarity and healing that traditional approaches alone hadn’t unlocked. Nate credits Ibogaine with helping him rebuild his relationship with himself, rebuild his life, and step fully into long-term sobriety with purpose and direction. Today, Nate is committed to paying that healing forward. He shares his work with the Casey Skudin 343 Fund, supporting firefighters seeking alternative mental health and wellness treatments, including psychedelic-assisted therapies. Through this work, Nate is helping create new pathways for firefighters who feel trapped in silence, stigma, or suffering—offering real hope rooted in his own lived experience. This episode is raw, brutally honest, and deeply needed. Nate’s story reminds us that the fire service must embrace conversations about mental health, addiction, trauma, and recovery. And it reinforces a truth we cannot ignore: our people deserve care, compassion, and access to every tool that can save their lives. Nate’s vulnerability is a gift. His message is a wake-up call. His recovery is proof that healing is possible—and worth the fight. For more information on the Casey Skudin 343 Fund, go to www.343fund.org The Casey Skudin 343 Fund is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit committed to supporting first responders and their families who struggle with trauma, PTSD, depression, addiction, and other mental health challenges related to their careers. Founded by Angela Skudin in memory of her husband, FDNY firefighter Casey Skudin, the fund provides grants and access to holistic and alternative healing treatments—including psychedelic-assisted therapies and other non-traditional modalities that are often inaccessible through standard healthcare. It also offers structured preparation and integration support throughout the healing journey, aiming to help those who protect and serve find sustainable recovery and wellness.

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.