In this episode of the Women in Fire podcast, experienced fire service leaders break down what it really takes to become a firefighter today. The panel shares unfiltered advice for aspiring firefighters. They take a close-up look at the importance of understanding the physical and mental demands of firefighting. They also discuss navigating the lengthy, costly, and competitive application process.  The panel stresses the importance of knowing what the job truly entails, addressing the heavy EMS workload, irregular hours, and emotional challenges like trauma and PTSD. They discuss gender-specific considerations, mentorship, and department culture. They also cover shifting recruitment trends and the evolving expectations of newer generations in the fire service.    This episode features:  -Lisa Baker, Southwest Trustee, Women in Fire (host) -Heather Mozdean, deputy chief, Fremont (CA) Fire Department -Kim Phillips, district chief, Houston Fire Department -Paige Colwell, battalion chief, Forsyth County (GA) Fire Department -Kat Desonier, firefighter/paramedic, Evans (CO) Fire District   This podcast is brought to you by TheFireStore. https://www.TheFireStore.com

In this episode of Talking Tactics, hosts David Polikoff, assistant chief, Frederick County (MD) Fire and Rescue, and Robert "RJ" James, lieutenant, Frederick County (MD) Fire and Rescue, talk about what it takes to be a successful fire service instructor. Drawing from extensive real-world experience including recent training sessions in Charlottesville, Virginia, they explore the critical qualities of credibility, passion, and adaptability that define great instructors.  During this discussion, the hosts stress the importance of instructors remaining students themselves. They also discuss crafting engaging presentations that connect with firefighters through relevant visuals and storytelling.  Get practical advice on when to start teaching and how to build confidence by starting small And learn about the importance of knowing your subject inside and out. This podcast is brought to you by TheFireStore. https://www.TheFireStore.com

In this episode of The Command Post, hosts Rick Lasky and John Salka discuss the evolving fire service culture with a focus on safety, training, and leadership. They reflect on decades of experience from departments throughout the United States. And they share personal stories that highlight the critical balance between aggression and caution on the fireground. The discussion challenges the “we’re number one” mindset by emphasizing preparation and continuous training as the true path to keeping firefighters safe. From cutting-edge technology like drones and thermal imaging to the simple fundamentals of gear checks and accountability, Lasky and Salka explain why training isn’t an optional extra—it’s the foundation for safe, effective operations.  This podcast is brought to you by TheFireStore. https://www.TheFireStore.com 

In this episode of The Professional Volunteer Fire Department, host Tom Merrill sits down with Dr. Allison Barry, assistant professor at the School of Health and Consumer Sciences at South Dakota State University. Dr. Barry shares insights from her groundbreaking community-based research focused on improving physical activity and nutrition among volunteer firefighters. Her work highlights the unique challenges these firefighters face, from limited resources to rural isolation, and the critical need for sustainable wellness initiatives. They discuss barriers including time constraints, lack of policies, and accessibility issues. They also explore the potential benefits of department-level programs, peer support, and state collaboration. Dr. Barry outlines how research-backed interventions tailored to each community can reduce sudden cardiac events and cancer risks, ultimately promoting longer and healthier firefighting careers. This podcast is brought to you by TheFireStore. https://www.TheFireStore.com

In this episode of the Backstep Boys, Ron Kanterman and Tom Aurnhammer welcome  Dr. Denis Onieal, whose 50+ years in the fire service span roles from chief of the Jersey City (NJ) Fire Department to superintendent of the National Fire Academy. They discuss the evolving role of mentorship within firefighting, highlighting the critical importance of guiding rookies, navigating career challenges, and supporting firefighters through retirement transitions.  Onieal shares personal stories of mentors who shaped his path and how those relationships blossomed into lifelong friendships. The hosts explore the balance between formal and informal mentoring, cautioning against choosing harmful role models while emphasizing patience, empathy, and communication as key mentor traits.  This podcast is brought to you by TheFireStore. https://www.TheFireStore.com    

In this episode of Generation Engine, seasoned fire service veterans Todd Edwards and Anthony Rowett break down the essentials of effective company-level training. Drawing on decades of frontline experience, they emphasize that the biggest obstacle isn’t resources but consistency. Regular, short, hands-on drills—not lengthy punishments—build the culture necessary for success. Edwards and Rowett stress respect between junior and senior firefighters, leaning on shared knowledge rather than rank alone to boost buy-in. From mastering hose stretches to using everyday call scenes for quick size-up drills, they demonstrate how opportunities to train are everywhere, even amid busy shifts.This podcast is brought to you by TheFireStore. https://www.TheFireStore.com

In this episode of Point of Origin, hosts Billy Hux and Bobby Drake sit down with Garret Dyer (ret.), assistant chief, Fairfax County (VA) Fire and Rescue Department. Drawing on over three decades of experience, Dyer unwraps the critical role leadership plays in shaping department culture and driving organizational success. He emphasizes that leadership isn’t about perfection or rank but about understanding perspective, showing compassion, and holding individuals accountable in a way that fosters growth. This podcast is brought to you by The Fire Store. https://www.TheFireStore.com

In this episode of Perspectives on Leadership, host Steve Shaw sits down Mark von Appen, a retired fire captain from California. Von Appen is a respected voice known for his leadership blog, Fully Involved. During their discussion, they explore the vital role of clear expectations in firefighter leadership and team success. Drawing on 30 years of experience and deep reflection, Shaw and von Appen discuss how trust and communication form the foundation in firehouse culture and effective leadership. Vaughn shares how conversations with his football-coach father shaped his approach and why assumptions cripple team dynamics. The pair also tackle challenges unique to today’s multigenerational workforce, emphasizing face-to-face connection amid digital distractions. Both leaders stress the importance of owning mistakes, recalibrating failed initiatives through honest dialogue, and providing outlets for passionate firefighters to avoid burnout. This podcast is brought to you by TheFireStore. https://www.thefirestore.com

In this episode of Fire Service Court, John K. Murphy, an attorney and retired deputy fire chief, breaks down how fire and EMS leaders can build legally safe, effective organizations. Murphy stresses the importance of strong leadership rooted in clear policies, open communication, and accountability. He highlights legal protections under federal and state laws covering discrimination, harassment, disability accommodations, pregnancy rights, and social media conduct. This episode’s discussion covers the evolving fire service workforce demographics and the challenges of recruitment and retention amid funding constraints. Murphy encourages departments to embrace mentoring, transparent and complaint procedures, and early intervention to prevent toxic work environments and costly litigation. Drawing from real-world cases and updated regulations like the Fire Brigade Standard, this presentation is a practical guide for fire and EMS organizations seeking sustainable leadership and compliance with the law. This podcast is brought to you by TheFireStore. https://www.thefirestore.com

For this episode of The Command Show, hosts Anthony Kastro and Brian Brush welcome Nick Ledin, of the Firefighter Rescue Survey. The three discuss “tactics for life,” a topic inspired by Chapter 6 of Mastering Fireground Command and the modern mindset for considering the impact of tactical decisions on fire victims and their survivability outcomes, not just how they affect the fire. This podcast is brought to you by Tablet Command. https://www.tabletcommand.com

In this episode of Mayday Monday, Eric Morgenthaler and Jeff Hill from Castle Rock (CO) Fire and Rescue share a harrowing near-Mayday incident from earlier this year. Responding to a subtle smoke investigation, the team encountered an older ranch-style home where fire was hidden beneath the floorboards in a finished basement. Hill unexpectedly fell through the compromised floor but maintained calm composure, issuing a timely Mayday that triggered an immediate and coordinated rescue. The crew’s extensive training, quick communication, and teamwork turned what could have been a tragedy into a powerful lesson in preparation and response. This podcast is brought to you by TheFireStore. https://www.thefirestore.com

In this episode of Fireground Strategies, seasoned firefighters and officers explore how to make a meaningful impact throughout a firefighting career—from probies learning the basics, to seasoned company officers balancing tactics and leadership, to chief officers shaping strategy and department culture. They emphasize humility, continuous learning, and the importance of mentorship. They also highlight practical skills probies must master, such as getting familiar with tools and team integration. The conversation also explores the challenges of maintaining skills in mixed EMS/fire roles, the critical role of a senior firefighter’s attitude on shift culture, and the captain’s responsibility as the bridge between tactics and strategy. This podcast is brought to you by TheFireStore. https://thefirestore.com

For the latest episode of The Training Officer, join Chief David Rhodes and host Dave McGlynn for an inside look at the upcoming FDIC 2026. They discuss the expanded Hands-on Training (H.O.T.) evolutions running during the week, including cutting-edge classes on electric and hybrid vehicle response and urban rope rescue. And they cover new EMS training innovations featuring high-tech simulations and top-tier instructors delivering CAPCE-accredited content. The episode also highlights invaluable leadership certification opportunities, the evolution of the conference’s stadium training yard, and enhanced networking through focused summits for chiefs, EMS professionals, and industrial firefighters.   Brought to you by TheFireStore. https://www.TheFireStore.com

In this episode of Fire and Training, Douglas Klein and Captain Wayne Jones explore the evolving dynamics of training the next generation of firefighters. Drawing from decades of hands-on experience, they challenge the notion that younger recruits are less proficient, arguing that instructional approaches must adapt to modern learning styles. They reflect on how technology, cultural shifts, and pandemic-related isolation have strongly influenced today’s recruits, emphasizing the critical role of mentorship in bridging cultural gaps. By sharing personal anecdotes and highlighting the value of ongoing education, Klein and Wayne advocate for patience, energetic engagement, and mutual respect between seasoned firefighters and newcomers. Tune in to learn about the importance of networking, embracing continuous learning, and honoring the wisdom of veteran firefighters.   This podcast is brought to you by TheFireStore: thefirestore.com.

In this episode of the Larry Conley Show, David Conley and Larry Conley discuss their personal leadership development with the East Dubuque (IL) Volunteer Fire Department. Drawing on decades of experience, from metropolitan firehouses to small-town brigades, they share the ways their workshop reshaped team dynamics. The conversation reveals the importance of hard conversations and emotional intelligence alongside traditional firefighting skills. East Dubuque’s culture of openness and willingness to evolve shines through as firefighters embrace transparency and tackle tough talks. The episode highlights how investing time and resources in interpersonal skills can prevent costly internal conflicts and build stronger, more resilient departments.   Brought to you by TheFireStore. https://www.thefirestore.com

In the latest episode of Fire Service Data and Tech Talk, host Eddie Buchanan welcomes guests Joanna Zibbell, fire technology manager, Boise, Idaho, and Blake Boyd, fire and emergency services analyst, Cary, North Carolina. They discuss the emerging role of data analysts in the fire service and take a close look at evolving data maturity frameworks and the challenges of vendor data access. They also address the significance of embedding data literacy within fire departments. Brought to you by TheFireStore. http://www.thefirestore.com/

In this episode of the Women in Fire podcast, Kim Phillips, district chief, Houston Fire Department, and Paige Colwell, battalion chief, Forsyth County (GA) Fire Department, take a close-up look at what defines leadership and management in the fire service. They explore essential leadership traits like trust, communication, and integrity, and highlight the challenges leaders face. These include everything from gaining credibility to managing personnel and navigating political pressures. The discussion emphasizes the idea that leadership isn’t a one-size-fits-all concept.   Instead, leadership is situational and requires adaptability and honesty. They also address the specific hurdles women encounter in this traditionally male-dominated field. On that front they talk about imposter syndrome and heightened scrutiny, stressing the importance of vulnerability and ongoing learning. With candid stories and practical advice, the episode reveals the ways effective leadership combines motivating people, managing resources, and fostering trust.

In this episode of Tactical Impact, hosts Jim Silvernail and Jason Hoevelmann sit down with Peter Morotto, acting chief of training, Bridgeport (CT) Fire Department, to unpack key firefighting tactics centered on tenable space and focused aggression. Drawing from 30 years of frontline service and extensive instructor experience, Morotto takes a close look at balance between aggressive fireground operations and firefighter safety, emphasizing the critical role of understanding building construction, fire behavior, and the modern fire environment. He shares firsthand insights from his flashover experience and highlights how coordinated fire attack, effective water application, and managing void spaces are essential.

Hooks & Hoses: Rob Grady’s Journey Through Firefighting in Gary, Indiana In this episode of Hooks & Hoses, host Eric Dreiman sits down with Rob Grady, assistant chief of training for the Gary (IN) Fire Department. Grady shares his firefighting journey, which spans over 30 years. He recounts his transition from volunteer to career firefighter, the highs and lows of frontline duty, and memorable moments riding the heavy rescue squad. He reflects on the evolution of fire service technology and training, the physical toll the job takes, and the growing awareness of cancer risks among firefighters. Grady also discusses his role leading the department’s training division, adapting to generational changes, and instilling pride and resilience in new recruits. Along the way, he unpacks the unique history behind Gary’s iconic blue-and-red fire apparatus. Brought to you by Fire Facilities: https://www.FireFacilities.com   

The Professional Volunteer Fire Department: Insights with Chief John Salka In this episode of The Professional Volunteer Fire Department, Chief John Salka, a seasoned FDNY veteran and lifelong volunteer firefighter, digs into the realities of today’s volunteer fire service. From recruitment challenges and background checks to the crucial role of professionalism without paychecks, Salka shares hard-earned wisdom on the true meaning of service. He reflects on the struggles of turnout numbers during overnight runs and he shares his perspective on the importance of encouraging young firefighters. He also takes a look at innovative ways his department rewards commitment. Salka stresses the power of clear expectations and communication in leadership while acknowledging the unavoidable politics within volunteer firehouses. His stories reveal a fire service filled with passionate, dedicated individuals despite tough times.   Brought to you by Fire Facilities: https://www.FireFacilities.com