National Fire Radio Podcast Platform

A View From the Top Floor Podcast with Mickey Farrell. Episode 2 focuses on the 10 things I wish I could tell myself as a probie as Mickey reflects back on his early days of his career. Sound advice for the early years of your career. -- Check out Top Floor Tactics on IG and his new podcast, A View From the Top Floor, hosted by National Fire Radio.

This episode is a recording of Jeremy's Bridging the Gap program he recently gave in Bellingham, MA on January 6, 2024.

In this episode of Frontline Mindset, host Rob is joined by Ed Monk from Last Resort Firearms Training, who brings a wealth of experience as a police officer, schoolteacher, firearms trainer, and Army officer. Ed Monk has dedicated over a decade to researching, writing, and providing training on the Active Shooter threat. Ed Monk's extensive background includes training armed staff in public schools, church security teams, School Resource Officers, and other law enforcement officers on countering Active Shooter situations. He has also served as a consultant for school districts and churches and delivered presentations on the Active Shooter threat to various audiences in multiple states. In this podcast episode, Ed Monk and Rob discuss the critical importance of shifting one's mindset when dealing with active shooter events, drawing from Ed's extensive expertise and diverse background in law enforcement, education, and firearms training.

Jeremy and Pip discuss what 2024 will look like for The Size Up. Pip will be exploring different activities firefighters use as an escape from the job. From sailing to fishing, cigars to skateboarding, we want to hear from you. Help us understand what fuels you outside the job. Send us a DM, email or comment on our posts. We're seeking individuals who want to share their off the job passion with us. Email - [email protected] Email - [email protected]

Be Human, seems like such a simple concept. And it really is. But at times, do we really act accordingly? Mike and Pip chat about those life moments when you need to stop, take a breath and provide the best level of customer service possible. Whether it’s on the job, being a dad, communicating with your spouse or behind the wheel. This conversation is one that will have you asking yourself the question. What’s My Size Up? Because what you do off the job, MATTERS!

Maui Firestorm Episode 9. Maui County Fire Commissioner Makalapua Kaneohe by Jeremy Donch

Welcome to the latest podcast on the National Fire Radio Platform, A view from the Top Floor with Mickey Farrell. On this podcast, Mickey and his guests discuss current topics, tactics, and dilemmas plaguing the American Fire Service. His no-fluff, all-business attitude pushes the limits on hot-button issues as well as sheds light on trending issues many choose to shy away from.

Being raised in a firefighter’s home can be a challenging upbringing. The highs and lows of the job not only plague the firefighter, but they can certainly have an effect on those who live under the same roof. Ray Tremer Jr., a decorated retired FDNY firefighter and his son, Ray Tremer III, a career firefighter and student of the craft, share their story about “growing up Tremer”. Unique challenges, resentment, anger, frustration and finally, respect and understanding. This podcast unpacks some of this and so much more about their dynamic relationship and the unconditional love they have for one another.

Today on 'Frontline Mindset,' join Rob as he engages in a compelling conversation with Captain Pat Smith of the Marshfield MA Fire Department. Delve into an inspiring journey from Pat's early days as a Call Firefighter to his ascent to a full-time Captain, now spearheading training operations. Gain unique insights as Pat sheds light on the critical roles of FAST/RIT (Firefighter Assist and Search Team/Rapid Intervention Team) and discusses the nuances of assuming the RIT position in the heat of fireground action.

Sitting down with Ashley Ross, the Marketing Director for New Jersey based Pierce Dealer, Fire and Safety Services, Ltd., we discuss the new media and marketing campaigned launched January 1st of this year. Working in partnership, the new 2024 Dealer calendar features 12 builds from around the state that feature many unique apparatus that we designed and built from Pierce Mfg. Taking the traditional calendar a few steps further, the calendar also boasts a QR code that takes the people to a video and photo landing page for each build. The Behind the Build video along with the Behind the Department video tells the story of each apparatus and the department that built it. The story matters when designing custom fire apparatus because it explains the needs and mindset of those building it. Fire and Safety Services, Ltd. recognizes the need to educate the fire service through their experience and knowledge in fire apparatus design and build. Their commitment to excellence is a testament of their 60th Anniversary that they are celebrating this year, 2024.

For milestone Episode 50 Pip sits down with his oldest son, Finn. Pip has always commented that Young Finn is wise beyond his years. You can be the judge of this comment after you listen, but Pip still thinks it rings true. Pip and Finn talk about their parent/child relationship, social media, their epic Iceland adventure and much much more. Finn even surprises Pip a few times with some jaw dropping commentary on life as a 13 year old. This episode will have you asking yourself the question. What’s My Size Up? Because what you do off the job, MATTERS!

Welcome back to Frontline Mindset! In this week's episode, we have a powerful conversation with Firefighter Matt Adkins, who shares his incredible journey in the fire service and the profound impact of respect on his career. Matt reflects on his upbringing within the fire service, revealing how the mindset he cultivated shaped him into the firefighter he is today. During our conversation, Matt takes us back to a fateful day when he was caught in the collapse of a burning roof. Little did he know that this harrowing experience would later present him with new challenges to conquer. Join us as Matt opens up about resilience, growth, and the unwavering determination that defines his remarkable journey in the fire service.

Stronger, Faster, Kinder, talk about a way to go through life and raise young men. For Episode 49 Pip welcomes his friend Jim Grauel. Jim is a recently retired Fire Captain with the CIty of Wildwood NJ. Jim and Pip talk about his new chapter of life, retirement , aka The Encore. Aside from retirement life these talk about those crazy wildwood nights, fitness, parenting, the job and Jim’s epic planned but not planned retirement trip. The entire episode will have you asking yourself the question. What’s My Size Up???? Because what you do off the job, MATTERS!!!!

Episode 48, Pick Your Arrows with Lee Throckmorton. Lee is a current fitness coach and gym owner. He spend his career in the fire service, however has experience in law enforcement, EMS and ocean rescue. His quadruple threat career set him up to help both current and aspiring members within the emergency services field. Pip and Lee chat about fitness, mindset and living an overall goal based lifestyle. This episode will have you asking yourself the question. What’s My Size Up? Because what you do off the job, MATTERS!

Maui Firestorm Episode 8: Secretary Roxanne Kinores-Medeiros (Ret.) Maui County FD by Jeremy Donch

Today Rob is joined on the first episode of Frontline Mindset by Firefighter Ernie Young of the Gunnnison Volunteer Fire Department in Gunnison Colorado. Ernie sits down on Episode 1 to talk about what being a Gunnison Firefighter requires in a district that encompasses over 2,000 square miles. When Ernie is not volunteering, he keeps busy as the Western Region Sales Manager for Rosenbauer. He hits on his experience not only in sales, but as an aerial specialist, and walks us through what that position does for the customer. Stay tuned on this episode of the Frontline Mindset with National Fire Radio.

No need to do a double take folks. You read the title correctly. This week Pip sits down with, well, Pip. Robert “Pip” Piparo is a firefighter/medic in Saratoga Springs NY. Several years back he reached out to Pip (host of the Size Up) because he was receiving messages meant for him about 555 Fitness. The two struck up an internet bromance and learned they had much more than a name in common. Pip talks about his time on and off the job, dealing with his PTSD, his mental wellness toolbox as well as his hobbies. Whether it’s mountain biking, fly fishing or pursuing his doctoral degree (something our Pip will never be chasing). This is certainly a great conversation that will have you asking yourself, What’s My Size Up??? Because what you do off the job, MATTERS!!!!

Retired Captain Cornelio Bancaco sits down with Jeremy and discusses the Hawaiian community of Lahaina and his family's lineage on the island of Maui.

Today Rob sits down and talks with a longtime friend, Retired US Army Staff Sgt. Christopher Morabito whose job was EOD or Explosive Ordinance Disposal. Chris sits down to talk about what it was like to be in the Army and gives inside knowledge on improvised explosives and how we need to rethink our game on this issue. Chris also hits on the fact that IED’s can be criminally related, but we may also have “accidental” IEDs in our responses from baby gender reveals gone wrong to mishaps with fireworks. Sit down on this episode as Chris shares the Mindset of IEDs and first responders.

Episode 46 features Tara Cornett, founder and owner of Flame Natural Decon Soap. One would think most of this episode would be about her product. And let's face it, a fair part of it is. Tara and Pip talk about the importance of post incident deconning, firefighter cancer and the hot button topic of working out in turnout gear. Also in the episode both Tarra and Pip share more about their lives behind their brands. Their openness and vulnerabilities will have you asking yourself the question. What’s My Size Up??? Because, what you do off the job, MATTERS!!!

Episode 6 of Maui Firestorm, Jeremy sits down with Kalikolehua Storer, a woman who is deep within her community that was on the front lines of the fire storm and its' aftermath. Kalikolehua has many titles, including the Area Hawaiian Culture and Training Specialist for Hyatt, the Operations Supervisor for the Pu'u Kukui Watershed and works with the Office of Recovery, Natural and Cultural Resources. Her love for Maui, the old town of Lahaina and deep rooted Hawaiian culture makes this a strong interview.

This week Pip welcome’s his old friend Doctor Sean Rockett to the show. Pip was fortunate enough to meet Sean through the CrossFit Med Staff a few years ago. Dr. Rockett is an Orthopedic Surgeon with Orthopedics New England. Pip and Doc Rockett talk about injury and more importantly injury prevention. Of course they also talk about CrossFit, Pickleball and being an on call doctor. This one will definitely have you asking yourself the question. What’s My Size Up? Because what you do off the job, MATTERS!!!!

Episode 5 of Maui Firestorm is a sit down with three firefighters that were on the frontlines of the Maui fires. Jordan Dunn, Kainalu Kealoha and Ka'aukai Rowland share their harrowing stories as the fires consumed Lahaina.

After 21 years with the FDNY, Joe Bonanno recounts his time with the department and the highs and lows of the job. For him, the firehouse introduced him to his lifelong passion of cooking. His probie days opened his world up to the firehouse kitchen table, where all things are handled typically over some of the best meals you've ever had. His passion for fitness lead him to wanting to make delicious meals with a healthy approach; a different take back in the 1980's and 90's. In the mid 1990's Joe had an opportunity to publish a healthy firefighter cookbook, American Firehouse Cuisine, which soon lead him down a road of stardom. He has had guest appearances on most morning and talk shows, even had the opportunity to cook with Julia Childs. His new found love for cooking coupled with his career of firefighting has opened so many doors for Joe. On September 11, 2001, Joe was recording at Ladder 3 for a cooking segment and had just left as the first plane struck the World Trade Center. He soon after returned with his Brother Michael, also an FDNY firefighter, and the two of them rushed to Ground Zero to assist on the pile. These dark days took its' toll on Joe and his family. His brother Michael, years later, took his own life and this has become an important topic for Joe and his message. He has educated himself on firefighter metal health and speaks about his personal experience every chance he can as a way to educate our own. Working with the Firefighter Behavioral Health Alliance, Joe is passionate about helping others with the hope of saving our own from suicide. Even though Joe has retired, he continues to work hard and has a new cooking show coming out on YouTube; American Firehouse Cuisine. Check out his new show!!

Join Jeremy, Rob and Pip as they discuss what they're thankful full amongst other things... this episode is a hot mess, just like deep fried frozen turkeys. Happy Thanksgiving!!

Ever hear the term Double Edged Sword? Pip’s guest this week, Tyler Evans @the_Citizens_Fireman has. Pip and Tyler spend a lot of time talking about their marriages. Tyler’s wife works in Emergency Services as well. It’s definitely a double edged sword. They also talk about social media, parenting and of course, the fire service. This episode will have you asking yourself the question, What’s My Size Up?? Because what you do off the job, MATTERS!!!!

Episode 4 of Maui Firestorm Jeremy sits down with Tamara Paltin, a community leader and retired lifeguard who was on the frontlines of the Lahaina fire. Her community involvement continues today with leading the charge in protecting the residents of Lahaina and those who were affected by the firestorm.

299. "Everything Has Gotten More Complicated" - Matt Stiff by Jeremy Donch

Stand behind value driven decisions... this statement sums up Jim Trzaski's approach as a Fire Chief. During his tenure, he has come to understand the importance of supporting his people and protecting the mission. His realistic approach and problem solving comes from years of relationship building and personal growth. Jim's commitment and passion for the fire services started early in his career as a dedicated volunteer firefighter. It was common belief that he was destined to be a career firefighter and he soon had the opportunity to take his volunteer status full time. A highly respected and well known firefighter, Jim finds himself bridging the gap between generations while protecting the sanctity of the firehouse. His dedication is top shelf and he works hard, day in and day out to ensure the past is not forgotten. Relating this with the "new normal", it takes a dynamic leader to be able to pull this together. Jim Trzaski is that leader, ensuring his memories and upbringing is shared with the next generation.

Today we are joined by special guest, Chris Kessinger, the Owner and Lead Instructor of Citizens First Fire Training. Chris is here to share his unique perspective on fire training, one that prioritizes the safety and well-being of the community above all else. His approach, developed alongside a skilled cadre of instructors, focuses on preparing firefighters not just in the technical aspects of firefighting but also in understanding and valuing their crucial role as protectors and helpers in our society. So, without further ado, let's dive into this conversation with Chris and learn more about how putting citizens first can transform the way firefighters train and respond to emergencies.

The Size Up Episode 43. Be Consistent - Chris Gilbert by Jeremy Donch

Our third installment of Maui Firestorm, Jeremy sits down with Greg Jenkins, a retired Captain of the Maui County Fire Department. This hard hitting episode discusses the lack of prevention to protect Lahaina from the threat of fire and the hard realities that surround this devastating fire.

Everything is bigger in Texas, and District Chief Clyde Gordon is no exception. His stature is strong and his passion and fire ground presence is stronger. Clyde has over 33 years with the Houston, TX Fire Department. From his early days of hard charging and his "put me in the game coach" attitude, Clyde developed a strong love of the job while pushing the envelope. He committed to the job and made sure he did his part in protecting the city. With time comes reflection and maturity. His hard charging ways has lead him to be a strong Chief with a more fully understanding of the "why". The "why" matters to Clyde, providing a service to those who rely on us - giving everything we have for those we protect. Clyde knows that we can make a difference and he pushes his people to understand that mindset and the importance of putting their citizens first is the priority. Set expectations, follow through on all of it... integrity, sacrifice, work ethic, accountability - all words that matter. Clyde believes in these words. He makes sure to emulate them in each interaction and situation he faces. Be who you say you are and for Clyde Gordon, believe me, it's truly that simple.

Welcome to another episode of The Gospel with National Fire Radio. In this episode, we have the privilege of sitting down with seasoned firefighter, Lt. David Quick, from the Manchester NH Fire Department, Engine Company 11. Today, Lt. Quick delves deep into a firefighting technique that's gaining momentum across North America - the vertical stretch. While this technique has long been a common practice in the Northeast, particularly in the heart of New England, Lt. Quick sheds light on the reasons why the vertical stretch is poised to become commonplace in fire departments all over North America. The driving force behind this shift? The evolving landscape of building construction. Lt. Quick emphasizes how the vertical stretch, when executed through company level training, represents a proactive and essential approach to modern firefighting. Join us as we explore the intricacies of this vital strategy, unraveling its potential to shape the future of firefighting tactics in your company and sharpen your edge as a company officer or someone in charge of training.

The Size Up Episode 42. Back to School - Jeremy King by Jeremy Donch

On Episode 2 of Maui Firestorm, with with Dr. Hokulani Holt, of the University of Hawaii, Maui College.

Mandatory hold overs, so commonplace today in career fire departments across the country can certainly take its' toll on firefighters. The dreaded "MANDO VAN" comes rolling through town so often it became an ongoing joke for John Gary and his comrades. The MANDO culture is a big part of his American Fire Brigade social media platform that has become so widely popular. John has found his comedy through memes and video to be a big part of his therapy off the job. Several years ago John was seriously injured during a fire. While taking his time off to heal, he realized he wasn't the guy he once was; that the job was tearing him apart. This time off allowed for him to refocus on himself by finding the right tools he needed to cope with the stresses of the job. Putting focus back on his own health and his family, John's renewed focus lead him to the creation of the Brigade. Today, John is a smiling, consuming guy who's infectious smile and love for 1980-1990's movies has built a great social media page and following. His ability to capture the reality of the job while being able to poke fun at it has helped change the MANDO culture in his department. John believes that we must "protect our days off" in order to ensure we have the down time needed for the important things in life. His close to career ending injury gave him his life back in a way, and John is ok with that!! -- Check out the American Fire Brigade on social.

Excited about training, Mike Wolfschmidt has gone all in on being the best he can be. A never ending quest, Mike believes that training should be retitled, "Self Improvement", always learning to be better and to do better. On and off the job, Mike has pushed himself to emulate those that stood out to him throughout his upbringing in the firehouse. True gentlemen, people who exhibited the very best values, that's who Mike wanted to be. Mike believes in a strong foundation and constantly learning and growing as an individual and firefighter. This 4th generation firefighter cannot get enough of the job. From his commitment to the volunteer companies to his career job, firefighting is in his bones. He shares this passion with his six year old daughter who routinely askes about what type of calls he has run during his shift. Involving her and exposing her to the upside of the job has created a very special bond between them. This fuels his desire to be a good man, one who carries on the foundation from which he learned from. He shares his knowledge and experience through Wolfschmidt Fire Training as well as being a part of the Eckert Fire Training cadre. He is unapologetic for his love of the craft and he makes no excuses about it. --- www.wolfschmidtfiretraining.com

Close to 37 years on the front lines in Boston, MA, Emmett "Pat" Nichols looks back on his career with a big smile. Even though he knew it was time to retire, his passion and love for the job is as strong today as it was all those years ago. Retiring as a District Chief, Pat worked is some of the busiest companies across the city. Always wanting to go to work, he found himself in Ladder 26, Truck 10 and Rescue 2 for most of his career. These companies didn't disappoint. Learning the technical rescue work along the way, Pat became a member of the Massachusetts Task Force 1, the USAR Team. This training led him to begin teaching and he eventually became involved with PL Vulcan Fire Training. Even after retirement, he is busier than ever with his family and the fire service as a whole. Traveling and teaching are now his focus and his experience and knowledge of the job certainly needs to be shared with firefighters everywhere.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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