Student Of The Game Fire Podcast

33 years of career experience. 2nd generation Firefighter. Creator and owner of CFT County Fire Tactics & recently retired Battalion Chief with Escambia County Fire/Rescue in Florida. If you don’t know anything about Curt I implore you to listen to the Weekly Scrap Episodes he’s been on where you can find more information on his knowledge on tactics and the fire service as a whole. The interview between Curt and I is more directly related to why he believes and thinks the way he does. Curt is one of the main reasons why my mindset towards the job is the way it is. Against others opinions and beliefs the biggest takeaway from this interview is to be PATIENT & TRUE to yourself.

23 years of combination experience. A driver on Truck 7 with Portland Fire & Rescue, Brothers In Battle cadre member. Growing up Anthony was attracted to public service and was thinking law enforcement but in high school sports kind of pushed some of those notions to the side. Right before Anthony was set to go into the education field he had a friend ask him about the fire service which really got things going again to a point where Anthony sought it out jumping in with both feet and never looked back. Anthony is a die hard truckie through and through. Although he jokes towards the engine we all know on the fire ground we all have a place where things need to get done. I certainly hope the listeners can truly tune in when we discuss the topic of VES and Anthony’s mindset towards it.IG: airbrax

33 years of combination experience 2nd generation Firefighter. A Captain on Rescue 1 with Durham Fire Department. From a very young age Carl knew what he wanted to be and where he wanted to work. He wasn’t able to get hired on his first attempt, but got it on the second. Once he did he knew the type of Firefighter he wanted to be. When you’re hired at a young age we sometimes believe that we know it all and this is not a shot at Carl because I was the same way as well. It takes humility, maturity and being around seasoned veterans to show us things we didn’t know and that’s exactly who Carl surrounded himself with. We won’t always be liked by everyone and that’s ok. Haters are going to hate what’s important is remembering your why and being the best version of yourself. I truly hope the listeners can snatch the gems and nuggets being dropped by Carl in this interview. IG: laddercaptain99

19 years of combination experience. A Engine Lieutenant recently moved over to Operations Lieutenant with Newport News Fire Department. Creator and owner of Mind Of Fire where they specialize in providing individuals to enhance their cognitive abilities to make informed decision making & Author of Mind Of Fire: The Science and Art Of Decision Making. Kiel never had sights of being in the fire service. He was a college student struggling to find his way. Eventually it was his mother who pushed him to pursue the service. Once he got in he was able to find mentors outside of his organization that provided PERSPECTIVE and insight to different areas of the job that helped shape who he is today. I truly hope the listeners can enjoy the conversations being shared.IG: kielsamsing mindoffire

21 years of career experience. A retired Deputy Chief from the Southern California area who is now the Training Coordinator For New Mexico State, Training Captain with Santa Fe County Fire & owner and creator of From The Ashes LLC. Upon completion of serving in the armed forces Justin knew the fire service was where he wanted to be. A friend’s introduction was able to get him through the door where Justin journey set sail. From fire conferences, outside trainings, switching organizations the up’s & downs of staying engaged Justin went through it all. And from that was where Justin was able to gain maturity through his experiences and wants to share so others can learn and grow.IG: firedad2024 from_the_ashes_llc

11 years of combination experience. Fire chief for Bonduel Area Fire Department in Wisconsin. Kevin got his foot into the fire service via the EMS Side where he started out as medic with Ski patrol. From there a position came open on the fire department Kevin applied and got his start. Although becoming Fire Chief wasn’t on his radar since being appointed Kevin made sure he took full of advantage of resources around him by attending various leadership courses available and many outside training events. What stood out to me about Kevin is the fact that just because he’s a Fire Chief that doesn’t mean he’s above the people within his department. If he’s instructing a class that requires the students to be in gear Kevin is also in gear. He is whole heartedly trying to better the organization and those he can impact within the fire service. Don’t take my word for it, just have a listen.IG: 601_k_lynch

17 years of career experience with several generations of Firefighters within his family. A Firefighter/Paramedic in the Kansas City Metro Area & creator and owner of Carry The Flag. Chris grandfather is a retired Deputy Chief with Kansas City Kansas Fire serving for 32 years. When you listen to Chris talk about his background and family history the writings were on the wall of the line of work Chris was going to fall into. This episode is most certainly a little different from the rest as Chris and I went down a few rabbit holes of discussions and topics which was a blast. Needless to say gems and nuggets were being dropped from Chris and hopefully the listeners can catch on to a few of them. IG: carrytheflagusa

34 years of combination experience. Captain with City Of Spartanburg on Truck 62. Jared always wanted to be a Firefighter from a very young age. He was able to get his start with Hawthorne Volunteer Fire Department in New Jersey where he rose through the ranks to Assistant Fire Chief before moving to South Carolina to pursue a career position. Jared found the career route a little later on in life but for me his mindset is what sets him apart due to the fact he knows with age being physically fit and wanting to train is not just for his benefit but its what the public EXPECTS from us when we show up. I truly hope the listeners tune in and hear a few nuggets Jared drops along the way. IG: jdvek

20 years of career experience. A Retired Fire Chief in the Ontario Canada region. Once he retired became a TI Specialist for Bullard setting to retire with them as well after 20 years. My discussion with Manfred may not be as alluring or sexy with Firefighters but there is no denying how Thermal Imaging Technology is probably one of the most under trained areas within the fire service. A lack of proper thermal imaging training in fire departments can lead to firefighters misinterpreting images, over-relying on the technology, and potentially increasing the risk of injury or death. Many departments don't provide enough training, and even when training is offered, it often lacks live fire scenarios and fails to address the limitations and inaccuracies of thermal imagers. My hope is the listeners can gain a bit of knowledge towards TIC’s, take it back and start having conversations with their respective crews or department.

11 years of combination experience. A Captain For Matthews Fire & EMS North Carolina who is assigned to station 1 also known as the Special Ops house. Kyle always wanted to be in public service and had his eyes set on becoming a State Trooper. But sometimes things we want in life just don’t line up and we need to adapt. And that’s what Kyle did. I truly loved hearing how the experience he received when he wanted to become a volunteer resonated with him so much that it ultimately became the reason he was able to find the career side. When you listen to Kyle talk you can clearly tell how much the fire service has done for him but also how being a Fireman isn’t all he wants that define’s him as an individual. He’s a husband, father and a christian man who makes sure he encompasses all of that into his life. IG: skbeard

28 years of career experience 2nd generation Firefighter. A Captain on Squad 1 with Dearborn Fire Department in Michigan. Mark knew he wanted to be apart of the same profession his Dad was in. It took him nearly 7 years to get on but Dearborn was the first to call. Once in Mark gravitated towards the Senior men who had the knowledge and skills he wanted to possess. One of Mark’s biggest takeaway are the things you learn from good and bad leaders. I throughly enjoyed the topics and discussions Mark and I shared and hope there listeners find value in it to. IG: markdbnfire aconversationwith_

26 years of career experience. Captain on Squad 18 with The Colony Fire Department in Texas. Adjunct instructor for the North Central Texas College fire academy, cadre member with Citizens First, Build Your Culture & Forge Fire & Company. Georgia Smoke Diver and assistant with Oklahoma Smoke Diver. From a young age Justyn knew he wanted to be in the service. Even though the fire service wasn’t on his mind he had a friend who put him in contact with the local Junior College where he lived, took a few tests and the rest was history. I hope the listeners can tune in on the reasons why Justyn wanted to become a Company Officer and ask yourself do you have that same notion?

19 years of combination experience. Lieutenant with Effingham County Fire/Rescue in Georgia on Engine 9. Jennifer never grew up dreaming of becoming a Firefighter. She was a Medical assistant in the Oncology research department. One day while hanging with a friend she ran a call involving a child. After the call was over one of the Captain’s who responded asked her if she ever thought about joining the fire department. Fast forward to today when you hear Jennifer talk you can tell how switching over to the fire service was one of the best decisions she made in her life. Jennifer doesn’t like to talk about herself and I truly can respect that but she makes valid points on the topics we discussed and I hope you all can enjoy the conversation. IG: jennwright21

52 years of combination experience. Deputy Fire Chief with Loveland-Symmes FD in Ohio. Best Seller Published Author, Creator of The Secret List, Firefighter Close Calls & 40 plus fire. Involved with International Association of Fire Chief’s Safety, Health & Survival, Sept 11 Families, National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, NIOSH & so many others. I can go on and on but there is no doubt Billy loves the fire service. From a young age once he was exposed there was no stopping him from being apart of what we all know deep within is the greatest job in the world. I truly hope the listeners enjoy the interview and pick up a few gems Billy drops along the way. IG: billygfire

Blake Cartee- 20 years of combination experience 3rd generation Firefighter. Captain on Truck 7 with Columbia-Richland Fire Services. Blake’s father wanted his brother and Blake to pursue a career in the medical field but from a very young age watching their father run calls & ride the rigs both of them wanted to get into the emergency services field. After having a friend of theirs mention to apply once they did there was no way they were looking back. Blake believes whether your career or volunteer we are all Professional problem solvers. Which involves a systematic approach to identifying, analyzing, and resolving issues in various contexts. It requires a combination of skills, including critical thinking, analytical reasoning, creativity, and effective communication. A key aspect is the ability to break down complex problems into smaller, manageable parts and to develop and implement solutionsIG:bcartee917

Mark Combs- 30 years of combination experience. Battalion Chief in the 9th Battalion on B-Shift with Dallas Fire/Rescue.Kevin Jordan- 15 years of career experience. A Command Tech also with Dallas Fire Rescue who works right along side Mark Combs.A strong relationship can be bonded through the integration of work and faith by approaching your work and interactions with others from a biblical perspective. Both Mark and Kevin live out their faith at work by building meaningful relationships, fostering a supportive workplace & having trust through communication. Actions most certainly speak louder than words. Both men agree on letting your actions shine as a light to others by demonstrating good character and a strong work ethic. There were so many gems and nuggets being preached on this interview it was too hard to just pick one. Do yourself a favor and tune into this episode as you surely won’t regret it.

32 years of combination experience. 1st Firefighter in his family to go career. Retired from Fairfax Fire/Rescue with 20 years as a Firefighter from Bailey’s Crossroads station 10. Firefighter, former Fire Chief and life member with Kentland Volunteer Fire Department, former Ops Chief with Clearwater Fire Department in Florida & currently Fire Apparatus Manager/ Assistant Chief with Prince George’s County. Ricky gained a ton of experience while being a volunteer member in Prince George but it wasn’t until a mentor in his life told him what good is all that experience and knowledge if your not willing to share it to others? After that discussion that’s when things began to evolve for Ricky. Having valuable experience and knowledge is beneficial, but its true worth is realized when shared with others, fostering growth, innovation, and collective progress. Without sharing, knowledge can become stagnant, and opportunities for learning and improvement are missed. Sharing knowledge not only benefits others but also deepens the sharer's understanding and strengthens relationships. IG: rickyrileytt

17 years of combination experience 2nd generation Firefighter. A Captain on Engine 18 with Caldwell Fire Department in Idaho, President with Treasure Valley Fools & creator of March Mayhem Fire Conference. Gino got his start as a reserve FF for Sacramento City with the dream goal of becoming a Firefighter with Cal Fire. Once he was eligible Gino began applying anywhere he could to get a full-time career position. That prayer was answered when he got hired with Sacramento. But Gino began to realize he wasn’t truly being fulfilled being just a number in such a large department and started seeking other avenues. Gino adds that there are no ill feelings towards his former organization but sometimes you as the individual need to find a place where you feel like you can make a difference and leaving a positive mark within the service.IG: mr.triple_g

22 years of combination experience. A retired Division Chief Of Training with Winter Park FD. Creator, founder & OG of Vent Enter Search, connoisseur of anything related to truck work. Growing up Jimm wanted to become a pilot in the armed forces but in life not everything is guaranteed to play out the way we would like. Jimm found the next thing best thing and for him it was the fire service. Once Jimm got his foot in the door it was all gas and no brakes. Surrounding himself with individuals who were into the job and climbing up the ranks along the way. I hope the listeners can find value in this conversation I had with Jimm when it comes to taking care of yourself and remembering that your FAMILY matters. IG: jimm.walsh

30 years of combination experience. A Battalion Chief in the 1st Battalion for Anne Arundel County Fire on B-Shift. Brandon was attending college for an engineering degree when his living situation on campus wasn’t desirable. He turned to the local county Fire Department live-in program which allowed him to attend classes but also ended up being the best decision he made for his career. It was nothing for him and other individuals to run over 2000 incidents a year which most certainly has its positives when it comes to gaining experience. Soon after Brandon knew he wanted to go career and got hired on Anne Arundel. Climbing through the ranks now as Battalion Chief one of the best statements I’ve heard was Brandon state “As a leader he wants to be tactically proficient enough where his decision making would be trusted.”

39 years of combination experience. A Battalion Chief on B shift with the Indianapolis Fire Department. Doctorate of management in organizational leadership. I wanted Candice to come on and share her story of how and why she got into the fire service but also wanted her to preach on Organizational leadership challenges and issues within departments across the nation and she did not disappoint. Often, problems aren't solely the fault of one individual, but rather indicators of flaws in the organization's systems or processes. A "blame culture" focuses on who to blame rather than what went wrong and how to fix it. When employees fear repercussions for admitting mistakes or taking risks, they may be less likely to collaborate, share ideas, and take ownership of their actions. Instead of focusing on assigning blame, organizations should prioritize learning from mistakes and identifying ways to improve. I would like to encourage all crews to listen to this interview, together if possible. Absorb the information being said, process it then ask yourself if you fit into this category.

19 years of combination experience. A Captain with Buckhannon Fire-Rescue in West Virginia. Cadre member with Insight Fire Training and adjunct instructor for West Virginia University extension. Like many others I’ve been fortunate to interview Firefighting wasn’t on Joey’s radar. While in college and being apart of a community service group the fire service came into the picture and Joey went for it starting out as a volunteer and then transitioning to a career Firefighter within a year. During his career Joey sought out the information he needed to be the best version of himself and for the fire service which unbeknownst to him led him down a path towards TIC’s and the rest is history. I hope the conversations had between Joey and I can resonate with the listeners.IG: baxajl

35 years of career experience. Recently retired in May as Deputy Chief of Operations for Oklahoma City fire department. Growing up Mike didn’t have aspirations of being a Firefighter. It wasn’t until a friend of Mike began describing and explaining what the job entailed which got his friend into the profession with Mike following suit. Once he was in it was game over. Mike was fortunate to get a crew that showed him the true meaning of brotherhood and being a Firefighter. A bond of unity, mutual support, and care. It's a sense of shared purpose, trust, and loyalty, where individuals treat each other with the same warmth and respect as they would their own family. Mike hit several damn good positions on leadership, aggressiveness & our own mental health.

Dr. Dave Mather- A retired Commander with 38 years of law enforcement experience 22 of those active. Owner and operator of What’s-a-Mather consulting where he goes around the world teaching organizations on deliberate leadership, culture change & public safety consulting. Dave has worked with more than 400 agencies around the world supporting public safety and the communities they serve. Yes you heard & read that right with law enforcement. Dave came highly recommended from Ricky “Esco” Escolero who told me I had to get him on and talk anything and everything leadership. Dave did not disappoint and hit so many targets when it came to leadership and organizations that I’m sure any Firefighter listening will be able to relate to. Realizing it's acceptable to incorporate outside instruction in a learning environment, such as a guest speaker, can be a positive step for enhancing employee engagement and providing diverse learning experiences. This shift can foster a more holistic and enjoyable learning environment for the organization. LinkedIn: Dave Mather

Josh Watt- 6 years of combination experience. A Engineer with Converse Fire Department in Texas on Ladder 172. Josh never wanted to be a Firefighter. He was approached by a few who asked him a couple questions which he responded no to but as they kept prying they found one that intrigued him and got Josh to say yes to. The definition of Opportunity is a set of circumstances that makes it possible to do something. Those circumstances within Josh’s life has got him to where he is today and I truly want the listeners to hear some great truth bombs on various topics Josh and I discussed. Being the best version of yourself is great but for Josh he wants to make sure first and foremost that he is a great father and husband to his family. IG: saywatt_1227

40 years of combination experience with 27 of those being served with the FDNY. Retired Capt of Ladder 123. Mike started as a volunteer with Hailsite Fire Department in NY. Going career wasn’t on his mind as Mike was making very good money as a heavy machinery rigger. It wasn’t until a friend told him about career civil service that Mike then transitioned to being a Police Officer for a stint then moved on to Firefighting which the rest of his career speaks for itself. I throughly enjoyed listening to Mike speak about his career and different viewpoints within the service. But the most important topic he spoke on is making sure we as Firefighters have our own “Household” in order before worrying about everything else with our careers.

22 years of combination experience, 3rd generation Firefighter. A Second Lieutenant EMT with Colleton Fire-Rescue in South Carolina. Fire service runs deep within the Weber family. Shane started out as a junior volunteer FF before moving up and ultimately pursuing a full-time career position. What’s important throughout Shane’s story is how even though they didn’t know at the time they were giving him solid advice Shane looked at these individuals as mentors. Mentors have a powerful impact on young people in a variety of personal, academic, and professional situations, and contribute to overall feelings of belonging. Mentoring helps connect to an individual’s personal growth & development. One of my favorite parts is when Shane discusses the topic on Brotherhood and how the fire service showed up in full force when he needed it the most. IG: sweber418

12 years of combination experience. Backstep Firefighter for Rutherford County Fire-Rescue assigned to Station 60, Citizens First cadre instructor. Josh was going to school pursuing an education when he discovered the volunteer fire service. After a few years under his belt as Josh states he was hit by the “Bug” and fell in love. Doing some homework Josh found out he could live his dream full-time by going career. With that notion he applied and got on at a department in Kentucky but wasn’t truly feeling fulfilled. He left and got on to Rutherford County where he truly felt his expectations were being met. Josh clearly states there’s no ill will towards his former organization but sometimes you have to step back researching potential options, assessing cultural fit, and understanding the company's decision-making process. My favorite quote from him was “Master the basic skill set to the point it looks advanced.”IG: j_wheeler94

30 years of combination experience, 3rd generation Firefighter. A Lieutenant with the FDNY on a truck company in East Harlem & creator of Top Floor Tactics podcast. Mickey’s indoctrination into the fire service was during a time America as a whole were more united than ever. When you hear Mickey speak there’s no denying the love he has for the profession. Fireman can sense BS a mile away. When one finds their true calling, they discover a sense of purpose and direction in life, often associated with a deep passion or talent they feel drawn to. It's a vocation that provides meaning and fulfills their inner sense of identity. This realization can be a profound and transformative experience. And Mickey Farrell exemplifies just that. IG: topfloortactics

Troy Gibson- 20 years of career experience. A Battalion Chief for Hawaii Fire Department. Troy was a surgical technician in the medical field and never had notions of the fire service. It wasn’t until he had a discussion with a Firefighter that told him how the department works and what they could do to help accelerate his education which in return got Troy intrigued, where he then applied and the rest was history. I was able to gain insight about how Hawaii Fire works but also throughly enjoyed hearing Troy’s viewpoints on different topics we discussed. Hopefully you all can obtain the different gems and nuggets Troy drops throughout the interview. My favorite quote from him was “You will mess up and be ok with that.”

33 years of combination experience 3rd generation Firefighter. Battalion Chief for A shift in the 4th Battalion for the City of Durham Fire Department. Firefighting is in the bloodline for the Ray family so it was inevitable that Richard was going to gravitate towards it. Going career wasn’t exactly what Richard planned but it was in his cards. If you ever get a chance to hear Richard speak when you do there is no doubt that he truly loves the job and wants anyone around him to be better versions of themselves. To get there one must find or seek out that mentor who can show you a side of yourself you didn’t know existed. One of my favorite quotes from Richard is “ If we’re going to be aggressive Firefighters, It can’t just be lip service.”IG: rhray

Gary “Yeti” Bullock- 15 years of combination experience 2nd generation Firefighter. Captain on Engine 31 with Tulsa Fire Department in Oklahoma. Build your culture cadre member, Smoke diver graduate from Georgia and Oklahoma. At first glance Gary looks intimidating. 6’6 weighing in at 260 could have that effect on a man. Being quiet and keeping to himself make no doubt about it Gary is all in when it comes to the profession. What allured him in was the team aspect and being intentional when it comes to purpose. The goal was always Tulsa Fire Department but the road leading there made Gary realize the areas he needed to improve on. Gary spoke the truth when it comes to the job and I’m sure most of you will agree upon listening. My favorite quote from him was “Sometimes it’s not your ambition but what’s best for the department.”IG: gsd1039

7 years of combination experience. A Engineer on Truck 1 with the City Of Salisbury. Christian always wanted to be a Firefighter. When you watch movies such as Backdraft and Ladder 49 it’s only apparent to live out your dreams and that’s exactly what he did. Salisbury was ultimately where Christian wanted to be due to the positive reach and influence of social media. He wanted to go to jobs and that’s where the jobs are. Christian has a huge love and passion for anything truck related and when you hear his responses to the questions I ask it just all makes perfect sense. My favorite quote from Christian is “You’ll never go from zero to hero.”IG: lambis148

27 years of career experience. Captain on Engine 6 with Nampa Fire Department who will be getting made as Battalion Chief in a few months. Most of Frank’s family is in the armed forces which is the path he thought he would also go down. But was always intrigued with the fire service. At a young age Frank obtained most of the certifications he needed and applied to Nampa and was accepted. Frank absolutely, whole heartedly loves the job and all aspects with it. It’s easy to focus or harp on negative things within the service but what’s the point? Stay focused on getting better and staying positive. Frank is a leader who believes leadership is an action word that also encompasses these 3 things: Communication, Trust & Competency. IG: beauvaisfrank

26 years of combination experience. A Captain On Truck 2 with Wichita Fire Department. Mark was a mechanic in the automotive industry and told himself he just doesn’t see his future in this field. He had a friend tell him about a volunteer opportunity in the fire service within the county he lived. Once Mark joined he formed relationships and friendships with individuals within the fire service who were truly into being the best version of themselves. When Mark decided to go full-time career mode Wichita gave him his chance and once he got on his career speaks for itself. I truly hope the listeners tune and hone in on the truth Mark speaks. One of my favorite quote from Mark is “ If you’re not going to be the guy to pull back the reigns don’t be in LEADERSHIP.”

17 years of career experience 2nd generation Firefighter. A Captain on Engine 4 with Norfolk Fire/Rescue. Kamal had zero intentions of becoming a Firefighter. During his junior year in college things weren’t working out. His father told him if his plans didn’t make he was going to become a Firefighter. His first day in recruit school on a lunch break Kamal was not feeling the journey he was in. But his mother told him do it for at least one week then they can both evaluate it. Fast forward to today and obviously things worked out for Kamal. One of the main gems that stood out in this interview was the fact that all Kamal needed was for someone to believe and show him the route he needed to go which laid down the ground work to where is now. My favorite quote from Kamal is “No matter where you grew up or what you look like, If you want to do it there are avenues to do it.”IG: rock_and_kim_son

25 years of career experience. Division Chief of Training with The Colony Fire Department in Texas. Firefighting wasn’t in the Garrett scope of practice but he had a friend invite him to come by the station and as many other guests I’ve had on once he entered in the halls of the fire house that’s all he needed. The mindset Garrett has is a testament to who you’re around. If you are aspiring to be an Officer or current one regardless if it’s Company or Chief this is a MUST listen to if you want to grow as a better person whether it be father, mother, significant other or Firefighter. If you’re into the job after listening to this episode it will make you want to run through a wall due to how truthful Garrett speaks when it comes to how an organization should operate. One of my favorite quotes from Garrett is “If you want a longer leash….TRAIN.”

2nd generation Firefighter with 14 1/2 years of service with the FDNY who retired out of Rescue 3 and life member with Haverstraw Volunteer Fire Department in Rockland County NY. Jeff was one of 6 members that were forced to make a difficult decision on January 23, 2005 on what is known as the Black Sunday Fire. 2 of those members were killed instantly one passed away 6 years later and the 3 who survived would forever have their lives changed. Later on that day another Firefighter Richard Sclafani was also killed at a separate dwelling fire. The thing about surviving tragedy while a traumatic event can significantly impact a person, it doesn't fully encompass their identity or future potential. Acknowledging the impact of a tragedy is important, but it's also crucial to focus on the present and future, and to not let the past define the person's identity. Reaching out to trusted friends, family members, or professional help can be very beneficial during and after a tragedy. I would like for the listeners to hear Jeff’s story and the strong message he has behind it. In this profession don’t ever think “It can’t happen here.”

20 years of career experience, 2nd generation Firefighter. Assistant Chief with Cayce Fire Department in South Carolina and co-owner of Soda City Training. My conversation with Ryan was fantastic. Upon entering into the fire service he had individuals who were helping and guiding him in a way that he might not have caught onto just yet. When you’re young and in the fire service after a few years some begin to think they know it all when the individual hasn’t even scratched the surface. Sometimes all it takes is one person to pull you aside and let you know you’re messing up to hopefully make you realize you need to change for the better. Ryan had one of those experiences that forever changed his outlook and continues to do so even today. I truly hope the listeners can take in and absorb some of the gems and nuggets Ryan’s dropping . One of my favorite quotes from Ryan is “ You are what you check.”

15 years of combination experience. Unknown to him until later 2nd generation Firefighter. At the age of 10 a grass fire accidentally started in front of his home. While his mother called 911 Nick filled up a bucket with water and extinguished the fire prior to the Fire Department’s arrival. He took a picture afterwards with one of the Firefighters who later on in life became the Chief of the volunteer organization he joined. That same Chief saw the potential in Nick and one day laid down an application for Wilmington Fire and told him there’s opportunity for growth and pushed him to apply. After getting on Nick’s mindset never changed. Every time your on shift is a day to learn and experience something new. How Nick view’s the fire service is how all should strive to achieve. IG: shep8822 & pfhc25

Franco Martinez- 31 years of combination experience. A Captain for Company 2 Tacoma Park with Montgomery County Fire/Rescue in Maryland. Franco wasn’t seeking the fire service at first. It was a friend who essentially put him on and asked to come by and see what it was about. Once he did the smell of the bay and gear had Franco hooked and that’s all he needed. While enlisted in the military, the road of law enforcement was presented but Franco knew the fire service was calling him. One of the quotes Franco dropped during his interview that definitely resounded with me was “When was the last time you practiced that skill?”IG: franco26_99

Dave Nowacki- 21 years of career experience. A Sergeant on Engine 50 with Detroit Fire Department, creator of 4th Man Fire. Dave isn’t a legacy Firefighter. He never dreamed at a young age of joining the fire service. What got Dave into the profession was a friend who told him all the things he gets to do while on the job and he gets to do it all while working only 9 days a month. Yep he admits that 100%. But once he got in he was all in making sure he continues to be the best version of himself. Dave is very tradition and history based when it comes to the job. After hearing his experience and viewpoints you’ll understand why. IG: 4thmanfire

26 years of career experience. Battalion Chief for City Of Mesa Fire & Medical Department. Chris actually wanted to be a police officer. While volunteering for a local sheriffs department he was able to meet Firefighters who explained to Chris the skills he had in mountain rescue most definitely translates to Fire Departments. With the being said the wheels started spinning for Chris and he applied to Phoenix & Mesa. Mesa was faster out the gate and Chris never looked back. I want the listeners to hear Chris’s experience regarding the passion he has now didn’t develop until later on his career and most importantly how the delivery you choose when exposed to new ideas you want to bring back to your own organization can have a negative effect if not done properly. Two quotes stuck out for me in our conversation. The first is “ Risk is managed by competence.” & the second “Values dictate culture.”IG: ffcrsleigher

2nd generation Firefighter with 27 years of combination experience. Captain with The Training Division for Little Rock Fire in Arkansas. From an early age Bo watched his Grandfather operate as a volunteer. There were times when they were completing a task and a call comes in and his Grandfather would stop what he was doing to run the call and from there Bo knew he wanted to do just that. Bo applied everywhere he could around him until Little Rock called and gave him what he always dreamed of. From there he was surrounded with individuals he wanted to emulate but also learned from those that weren’t into it as we would like. Climbing through the ranks an opportunity presented itself within the training division and Bo took it. Bo believes in accountability, standards, sweat and suffering. One of my favorite quotes from Bo is “I’ve never regretted a workout.” IG: engine.actual

Joel Kanasky- 46 years of combination experience. Retired Firefighter from the FDNY who rode Rescue 1 for 16 out of his 20 year career. From a young age Joel knew he was destined to become a Firefighter following 3 of his 4 brothers who were volunteers. Joel started out with Alexandria FD moving up the rank of Lieutenant before deciding to switch departments after 9 years. The move wasn’t easy but well worth it after listening to Joel’s experiences and the individuals who he had the pleasure of working along side with. My favorite quote from Joel is “Company Officers have to be proficient in everything he expects his members to do.”

45 years of combination experience. Retired Deputy Assistant Chief of the FDNY who has held many ranks within the organization including Chief of Fire Academy, Training & Safety. Currently Managing Director of the First Responder Center For Excellence which focuses on addressing crucial issues like firefighter cancer, mental health, and suicide. Frank started out as a volunteer Firefighter following after his brother. The FDNY was never on the radar but the individuals within the East Farmingdale Volunteer fire department changed his mindset when they would discuss different calls and aspects they experienced while on the job. And with that Frank applied at a young age, got on with the greatest Fire Department in the world and the rest was history. Frank attributes his success to the friends and mentors he surrounded himself with. One of my favorite quotes from Frank is “ You can fool the spectators but not the players.”

21 years of combination experience. First career Firefighter within his family which has a long tradition of volunteers. Technician for Fairfax Fire/Rescue on Engine 436. Creator of “The Art Of The Company Chauffeur.” This episode is a little different from the rest as Brian and I discuss what it truly means being a driver/operator for fire departments and seeing how the art form of holding that position is slowly getting lost in today’s world. One of my favorite quotes from my conversation with Brian is “Don’t give up. That’s why we have all these letters in the alphabet. What’s your next play?.”IG: dieselman264

19 years of career experience. A Captain with Montgomery County Fire/Rescue assigned to the Rockville Station. Becoming a Firefighter wasn’t a goal for Enrique. While in college he heard an ad on the radio promoting Montgomery. With college tuition bills on the brain Enrique decided to apply to see what would happen. To his shock he received a phone call that would change and view the way he looks at life for the better and hasn’t looked back since. A quote that stood out to me stated by Enrique was “You have a responsibility to your people as company officers.”IG: rickyescolero

12 years of combination experience 2nd generation Firefighter. Part time Firefighter with Greene County Fire Department in Georgia & Creator of Next Rung whose mission is to help combat mental health issues among Firefighters and First Responders. I had the privilege to sit on a presentation at this past Carolina Fire Days where Blake discussed having love and passion for the job, family and faith. Blake has a strong christian belief and isn’t afraid to let others know. He also has something special about him when he speaks on whatever the subject maybe. I thoroughly enjoyed our conversation and truly believe others will too.IG: blakestinnett_nextrung

31 years of career experience. 2nd generation Firefighter. A Battalion Chief in the 4th Battalion on B Shift for the City Of Detroit. As a young child Dave watched how his father treated and respected all aspects of the fire service. Unfortunately due to the nature of the job Dave’s father passed. But during those times he was also able to witness first hand the true side of brotherhood of the fire service. Dave knew on the inside he wanted to become a Detroit Firefighter. Dave’s experience’s with Detroit is truly one of a kind. One of his viewpoints is how Firefighters should get out of their own bubble and experience training outside the confines of your own organization. If you know nothing about Detroit I implore you to do your research and see what the men and women have been through and how they continue to persevere with pride day in and day out.