The Anchor Point Podcast

People have lived collaboratively with fire, and fire has brought and supported life since time immemorial. This was something Dr. Sasha Berleman heard when she was a young adult enrolled in an educational program at a nature reserve that her grandmother used to take her to. This sent her on a lifelong journey to explore and educate others on living harmoniously in a fire-prone environment. Known as the Fire Poppy, Dr. Berleman shares insights on wildland and prescribed fires, stressing their vital role in fire-adapted ecosystems. She talks about the challenges of using fire and changing how people see it. Dr. Berleman also talks about the Fire Forward program, which helps more people use prescribed fires safely. The program focuses on leadership, working together, and helping communities. She also talks about how the government and groups can learn from each other and how everyone can work together better. Dr. Berleman underscores the need for collaboration, resource sharing, and mentorship, concluding with a focus on the recipe for success and the potential for future growth, as well as the importance of mentors and paying it forward.

Explore the thrilling intersection of firefighting and professional boxing in this captivating episode. On today's show, Chase and Sammy Worthington stop by to talk about what it takes to make a strong, lasting relationship through their personal experiences with a wildfire career and a professional boxing career. Chase Worthington, a Squad Leader on the Folsom Lake Veterans Crew and a US Navy Veteran, brings the perspective of a wildland firefighter. Meanwhile, Sammy "The Heat" Worthington, a renowned professional boxer and UBO women's Super Lightweight World Champion, adds the exhilarating world of boxing to the conversation. Discover how their unique experiences highlight the parallel between pursuing passions in both careers and relationships. Tune in to gain valuable insights into navigating the challenges of these demanding yet fulfilling paths, fighting wildfires on the line and in the ring while loving on each other.

When discussing or covering wildfire situations, most people and media outlets focus more on their destruction rather than the humanity behind it. In this episode, Brandon Dunham sits down with Gabriel Kirkpatrick Mann to discuss the making of his cinematic masterpiece documentary "Hotshot," which tells the story of some of the most elite, the most hardened, and the most skilled men and women on the fireline. He talks about the movie’s six-year filming process, which involved catching firefighters in action and getting in the middle of the most dangerous wildfire areas. He explains how the documentary can help reshape public perception about wildfire, shifting the focus to firefighters’ pay and experiences. Gabriel also discusses why he avoided tackling climate change in “Hotshot” and how to get rid of dirty politics when it comes to wildfire fighting. Tune in to the original wildland firefighting and wildland firefighter culture podcast, "The Anchor Point Podcast," to learn more about the awesome and ever-evolving world of wildland firefighting. To find out more, visit our website at: anchorpointpodcast.com. Or, check out our LinkTree to find all the episodes you'll want to binge in the back of the buggy! Y'all know the drill: Stay safe, stay savage... Peace! ---------------------------- The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following amazing folks: Mystery Ranch Need badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch! https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot Brewery Wanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!! https://www.hotshotbrewing.com Not sponsors of The Anchor Point Podcast, but great organizations: The Wildland Firefighter Foundation And, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation! https://wffoundation.org The A.W.E. Wanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation! http://wildfire-experience.org

It’s high time we confront the wildfire crisis head-on while looking at forest health from a holistic point of view. In this episode, we talk with Stanislaus National Forest Public Information Officer, Benjamin Cossel, about the MASSIVE undertaking of a historic fuels reduction and prescribed fire project called the "Initial Landscape Investments to Protect Communities and Improve Resilience in America’s Forests." This massive initiative spans a decade, covering millions of acres, and aims to address hazardous vegetation, enhance forest health, and confront the wildfire crisis. Benjamin takes us through how Stanislaus is accomplishing their goals in the forest, sharing innovative strategies to revitalize these landscapes. With insights into the Forest Service's designated landscapes project and the role of Stanislaus, we explore the significance of forest resiliency and reflect on the dire need for holistic forest management. Join today’s conversation and hear the strides we’re making towards creating healthier, more vibrant forests, ultimately contributing to a safer environment for communities and ecosystems alike. This ambitious, 10-year-long, multi-million-acre project is quite impressive - and absolutely needs to be done! Tune in to the original wildland firefighting and wildland firefighter culture podcast, "The Anchor Point Podcast," to learn more about the awesome and ever-evolving world of wildland firefighting. To find out more, visit our website at: anchorpointpodcast.com. Or, check out our LinkTree to find all the episodes you'll want to binge in the back of the buggy! Y'all know the drill: Stay safe, stay savage... Peace! ---------------------------- The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following amazing folks: Mystery Ranch Need badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch! https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot Brewery Wanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!! https://www.hotshotbrewing.com Not sponsors of The Anchor Point Podcast, but great organizations: The Wildland Firefighter Foundation And, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation! https://wffoundation.org The A.W.E. Wanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation! http://wildfire-experience.org

Wildfires are getting bigger and bigger every single year. Those 100-year fires are now happening at intervals of five or ten years, and they are much deadlier to handle. Andy Bozzo wants to arm wildfire fighters with the right technology to give them a much safer time eliminating this kind of fire, saving many lives in the process. This is where Tablet Command comes in. Andy joins Brandon Dunham to discuss how the tool optimizes resource management and increases situational awareness for those running around on the fire line. He shares how its concept was born out of a game of Words With Friends and continuously being upgraded based on firefighter’s first-hand experiences. Andy also talks about his leadership style of inclusivity and humility, which is far more impactful than simply ordering people what to do. Tune in to the original wildland firefighting and wildland firefighter culture podcast, "The Anchor Point Podcast," to learn more about the awesome and ever-evolving world of wildland firefighting. To find out more, visit our website at: anchorpointpodcast.com. Or, check out our LinkTree to find all the episodes you'll want to binge in the back of the buggy! Y'all know the drill: Stay safe, stay savage... Peace! ---------------------------- The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following amazing folks: Mystery Ranch Need badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch! https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot Brewery Wanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!! https://www.hotshotbrewing.com Not sponsors of The Anchor Point Podcast, but great organizations: The Wildland Firefighter Foundation And, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation! https://wffoundation.org The A.W.E. Wanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation! http://wildfire-experience.org

Despite the changes we have made, would you believe that PPE hasn’t been changed in 30 years? It continues to be governed by antiquated rules that no longer best serve what we need today. In this episode, Korena Hallam and Summer Hurd from Green Buffalow dive deep into the changes we need to see, especially when it comes to the different needs between men and women in the field. They explain the complex and technical nature of creating a wildland firefighting PPE that fits and performs WAY better. Plus, they let us in on what it’s like starting a small business, how they’ve grown it, and what lessons they learned along the way. Korena and Summer are definitely changing the one-size-fits-all game of wildland firefighting PPE. Tune in now to learn how they are making headways despite it all. Tune in to the original wildland firefighting and wildland firefighter culture podcast, "The Anchor Point Podcast," to learn more about the awesome and ever-evolving world of wildland firefighting. To find out more, visit our website at: anchorpointpodcast.com. Or, check out our LinkTree to find all the episodes you'll want to binge in the back of the buggy! Y'all know the drill: Stay safe, stay savage... Peace! ---------------------------- The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following amazing folks: Mystery Ranch Need badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch! https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot Brewery Wanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!! https://www.hotshotbrewing.com Not sponsors of The Anchor Point Podcast, but great organizations: The Wildland Firefighter Foundation And, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation! https://wffoundation.org The A.W.E. Wanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation! http://wildfire-experience.org

If you happen to be a bystander as an emergency situation takes place, would you rather be the person who just stands by helpless and clueless, or the person who happens to be trained and equipped enough to save the day? Today we’re talking about saving lives, and we have the perfect person to talk to us about the importance of having the right gear, skills, and training to respond to emergency scenarios. A little about our guest... JT Sohr is a 21-year veteran of the wildland fire service with the BLM, USFS, NPS and ODF... He has recently been in the news for making a swift-water rescue save of a 91-year-old man who ran off the road into the Lochsa River in Idaho... His training, gear, and knowledge of the area proved indispensable for this rescue... He believes that these skills (and medical, technical rescue, and other skills) are great to have, and they are a valuable tool to be a master of – because you never know when you'll need them! You can learn more about JT and stay in the loop with what he’s up to by following him on Facebook. You know the drill... Stay safe, stay savage... Enjoy! .......................... Updates! We launched a Patreon!!! If you guys would like to support us, head over to our Patreon Page! https://www.patreon.com/theanchorpointpodcast .......................... Sponsors: The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following wonderful folks... Mystery Ranch Need badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch! https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot Brewery Wanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!! https://www.hotshotbrewing.com The Smokey Generation Wanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation! http://wildfire-experience.org

Beyond the massive destruction caused by wildfires are the people who risk their lives just to put them out. In this episode, Ben Iverson of the Forest Service shares with Brandon Dunham a glimpse of the wildfire culture beyond the protocols and into its relatable human aspects. He talks about their project Meta Review, which looks back on the commonalities and differences of past wildfire events to find their most valuable lessons that could help improve fire response and address the poor education on wildfires. Ben also explains how they use focus groups to gather real-life experiences from firefighters to improve their catalog and encourage their colleagues to open up even their most harrowing wildfire encounters. Tune in to the original wildland firefighting and wildland firefighter culture podcast, "The Anchor Point Podcast," to learn more about the awesome and ever-evolving world of wildland firefighting. To find out more, visit our website at: anchorpointpodcast.com. Or, check out our LinkTree to find all the episodes you'll want to binge in the back of the buggy! Y'all know the drill: Stay safe, stay savage... Peace! ---------------------------- The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following amazing folks: Mystery Ranch Need badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch! https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot Brewery Wanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!! https://www.hotshotbrewing.com Not sponsors of The Anchor Point Podcast, but great organizations: The Wildland Firefighter Foundation And, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation! https://wffoundation.org The A.W.E. Wanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation! http://wildfire-experience.org

Nutrition plays a vital role in the well-being and performance of wildland firefighters, shaping their physical and mental resilience in the face of demanding and dangerous conditions. In this episode, we continue the previous discussions around human performance and nutrition. This time, we look into the policy changes for how our wildland firefighters are fed during fire assignments. Joining us is the perfect guest for this conversation. James Shelley is not only well-versed in the world of wildland firefighting, being a wildland firefighter himself; he is also versed in nutrition since he is currently a dietetics student at the University of Alaska. Just this year, he became the owner of Frontier Performance Nutrition, where the goal is to change the game for those living high-performance, time-demanding lifestyles. James shares his journey from U.S. Marine Vet to firefighting to studying dietetics, discovering his passion for nutrition while working as a dog musher in Alaska. He soon found similarities between sled dogs and wildland firefighters, especially when it comes to nutrition. James highlights the need for individualized nutrition, improved meal quality, and increased communication among firefighters. He dives deep into hydration, electrolyte sources, and the challenges of implementing nutrition initiatives. Addressing the party culture and alcohol consumption among firefighters, James emphasizes personal accountability and the importance of reliable research. Join us as we explore the path to better nutrition and policy changes for wildland firefighters, striving for a healthier and safer future.

In this episode, we’re going to talk about whole body wellness, and we have just the right guest to speak to that. Paul Tijerina is a master health coach with expertise in functional nutritional therapy and primal health. And boy does he have compelling stuff to share! As hotshots, it is part of our job to make sure we’re consistently operating in our best form. Consequently, things like proper nutrition, exercise and good sleep come into play. But this is also one of the most hotly contested areas around, with different schools of thoughts having opposing claims, and it’s sometimes really hard to get to the truth. Paul makes it easier for us by breaking it down to the simplest, most fundamental concepts. If you want to know more, then it’s time to tune in! A little about Paul Tijerina... Paul Tijerina is a Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner and Primal Health Coach Level 2, who also goes by the title of Master Health Coach. Once a West Point graduate and army veteran, Paul found himself at his lowest point after leaving the military in 2002. With a weight of 275 pounds, high blood pressure, pre-diabetic condition, major digestive issues, and intense inflammation, his health was in dire straits. Determined to turn things around, Paul embarked on a two-year vegan journey, hoping for improvement. While he saw some minor changes, he also encountered new complications. It was during this time that he discovered what he now refers to as ancestral health, and since then, he hasn't looked back. For more than a decade, Paul has been coaching individuals on animal-based nutrition, ancestral-based health, self-reliance, and simplified living, among other fascinating subjects. But recently, some significant life events compelled him to reevaluate his priorities. As a result, he made a bold decision: taking his message off the grid, he now travels the nation in a camping trailer, conducting seminars and aiding people in reconnecting with nature (a process he calls "rewilding"). Paul's ultimate vision for his clients is to help them experience the freedom and joy that comes from being healthy, prepared, and leading a simpler life. By working with him, individuals have witnessed transformative outcomes such as shedding excess fat, enhancing performance, boosting energy levels, improving hormonal balance, strengthening digestion, and enjoying better mental and emotional wellbeing. You can learn more about Paul and stay in the loop with what he’s up to by following these links: https://superhumantransformation.com/paulctijerina-bio https://www.instagram.com/paulctijerina https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulctijerina https://twitter.com/paulctijerina http://www.paulctijerina.com/home You know the drill... Stay safe, stay savage... Enjoy! --- Updates! We launched a Patreon!!! If you guys would like to support us, head over to our Patreon Page! https://www.patreon.com/theanchorpointpodcast --- Sponsors: The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following wonderful folks... Mystery Ranch Need badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch! https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot Brewery Wanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!! https://www.hotshotbrewing.com The Smokey Generation Wanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation! http://wildfire-experience.org

Welcome to the The Anchor Point Podcast, episode 117 with Jay Walker, a wildland firefighter from Wells, NV. Jay has served on multiple wildland firefighting crews, including Ruby Mountain Hotshots, Jackson Hotshots, and Elko District Engine Modules. He is currently the acting superintendent of Ely Helitack, based out of Panaca, Nevada. In 2020, Jay experienced a severe rollover accident in a UTV resulting in the loss of his hand. After multiple surgeries, hardships, and financial challenges, he experienced something arguably worse than the pain of the accident itself - the mental health challenges. In this episode, we dive into Jay's personal journey to discovering a distinct approach to prioritizing his mental health and recovery. It is an incredibly uplifting account that highlights his unwavering determination, how he overcame his demons, and his desire to support others in their own paths. Jay serves as a true inspiration and the epitome of the indomitable human will. His enthusiasm for fire remains undiminished, and he continues his firefighting endeavors using a unique set of prosthetics despite the unfortunate loss of his hand. Tune in to the original wildland firefighting and wildland firefighter culture podcast, "The Anchor Point Podcast," to learn more about the awesome and ever-evolving world of wildland firefighting. To find out more, visit our website at: anchorpointpodcast.com. Or, check out our LinkTree to find all the episodes you'll want to binge in the back of the buggy! Y'all know the drill: Stay safe, stay savage... Peace! ---------------------------- The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following amazing folks: Mystery Ranch Need badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch! https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot Brewery Wanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!! https://www.hotshotbrewing.com Not sponsors of The Anchor Point Podcast, but great organizations: The Wildland Firefighter Foundation And, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation! https://wffoundation.org The A.W.E. Wanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation! http://wildfire-experience.org

Welcome to Episode 119 of The Anchor Point Podcast, where we take a deep dive into the world of wildland firefighting and the culture that surrounds it. In this episode, we'll be discussing the crucial role of aviation and aerial firefighting operations in Nevada, featuring guests from different aspects of the industry. Join us as we delve into the day-to-day operations of the various helitack crews and the ins and outs of the tanker bases. We also take a look at the management side of the fire aviation program and discuss how it all comes together to help fight wildfires. With wildfires becoming increasingly common and devastating, it's more important than ever to understand the role that aerial firefighting and aviation assets play in the overall strategy to control these fires. From the equipment used to the training required, our guests break down the essential elements of a successful aerial firefighting operation. Jeremy Seng - Detailed BLM National Flight Operations Program Manager. He shares his experiences on how helitack crews and fire retardant can win the day with wildfires, the challenges and importance of coordinating with ground crews, and how his team manages resources during times of high fire activity. Lucas Rhea - Nevada State Office Air Attack, joins us next to discuss the unique challenges of working in Nevada and Air Attack operations. He also shares some of his experiences as the superintendent of the Las Vegas Helitack crew. Melissa Fry - Wells, Nevada, Single Engine Air Tanker Base Manager, discusses her role in managing a Single Engine Air Tanker base and ensuring the safety of pilots and crews. She also shares some of the challenges and rewards of working in such a dynamic environment. And Alec Goicoechea - Nevada State Aviation Manager... Alec discusses the management side of the fire aviation program, including the process of allocating resources and equipment to different parts of the state based on need and the challenges of maintaining a high level of readiness in an unpredictable fire season. Overall, this episode covers a variety of topics related to aviation resources and aerial firefighting operations in Nevada, from the day-to-day operations of helitack crews to the ins and outs of tanker bases. Join us as we dive into the world of aerial firefighting and the unique challenges faced by those on the front lines of wildfire control. Tune in to the original wildland firefighting and wildland firefighter culture podcast, "The Anchor Point Podcast", to learn more about the awesome and ever-evolving world of wildland firefighting. To find out more, visit our website at: anchorpointpodcast.com... Or, check out our LinkTree to find all the episodes you'll want to binge in the back of the buggy! To find out more about the Nevada BLM Aviation Program - Check out: www.nevadafireinfo.org Y'all know the drill: Stay safe, stay savage... Peace! ---------------------------- The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following amazing folks: Mystery Ranch Need badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch! https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot Brewery Wanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!! https://www.hotshotbrewing.com Not sponsors of The Anchor Point Podcast, but great organizations: The Wildland Firefighter Foundation And, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation! https://wffoundation.org The A.W.E. Wanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation! http://wildfire-experience.org

Welcome to The Anchor Point Podcast, episode 118! In this episode, we delve into the world of wildland firefighting with a focus on the Nevada Bureau of Land Management Handcrews and Interagency Hotshot Crews. Our guests for this episode include JP Blair, Justin Zabala, Kris Bruington, and Chase Maness, all experienced Hotshots who have worked on the frontlines of some of the toughest wildfires in the country. We talk about their experiences as members of these elite firefighting teams, how they have seen the industry evolve over the years, and the direction the industry is heading with the new changes on the horizon. We also have an honest and candid conversation about the following topics: Finally, we explore the role of social media in firefighting and how it can be used for "clout chasing" or for a greater good. Our guests provide examples of how social media can be leveraged to educate the public on fire safety and prevention. The guests on this episode are all current or former Interagency Hotshot Crew or Handcrew superintendents, here's a little about these rad individuals: JP Blair - Superintendent of Vegas Valley Veterans Crew, US Marine, and former Del Rosa Interagency Hotshot Asst. Supt. Justin Zabala - Current Assistant Superintendent, soon to be Supt. of Ruby Mountain Hotshots. Kris Bruington - Fire Operations Coordinator for the NV BLM, former Lone Peak IHC Superintendent. Chase Maness - Eastern Nevada Agency BIA Fire Management Officer, former Midnight Suns and Ruby Mountain IHC Superintendent. I Just want to say to these guys are awesome, and I also want to extend a huge thank you for being on the show! Tune in to the original wildland firefighting and wildland firefighter culture podcast, "The Anchor Point Podcast", to learn more about the awesome and ever-evolving world of wildland firefighting. To find out more, visit our website at: anchorpointpodcast.com... Or, check out our LinkTree to find all the episodes you'll want to binge in the back of the buggy! Y'all know the drill: Stay safe, stay savage... Peace! ---------------------------- The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following amazing folks: Mystery Ranch Need badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch! https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot Brewery Wanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!! https://www.hotshotbrewing.com Not sponsors of The Anchor Point Podcast, but great organizations: The Wildland Firefighter Foundation And, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation! https://wffoundation.org The A.W.E. Wanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation! http://wildfire-experience.org

Welcome to the The Anchor Point Podcast, episode 117! In this episode, we dive into the world of wildland firefighting with a focus on the Nevada Bureau of Land Management Fire Engines program. Joining us are Truett, Elliot, Chris, and Austin, who share their experiences and insights into the unique capabilities that the program offers. We explore the different techniques used in wildland firefighting with specialized fire apparatus, including: mobile attack, wildland urban interface suppression, and the unique ability to perform helicopter bucket filling operations. Our guests provide an in-depth understanding of the challenges and skills required to successfully navigate these complex situations, and suppress fire in a multitude of ways. In addition to discussing the technical aspects of wildland firefighting, we also delve into the human component of fighting fire. Our guests share their personal stories and the mental toll that fire season can have on firefighters and their families. We wrap up the episode with a discussion on the future of wildland firefighting and the role that social media plays in recruiting new firefighters. Our guests provide valuable insights into how technology can be harnessed to attract and train the next generation of firefighters - Or become one of our worst enemies in the wrong hands... Tune in to the original wildland firefighting and wildland firefighter culture podcast, "The Anchor Point Podcast", to learn more about the awesome and ever-evolving world of wildland firefighting. To find out more, visit our website at: anchorpointpodcast.com... Or, check out our LinkTree to find all the episodes you'll want to binge in the back of the buggy! Y'all know the drill: Stay safe, stay savage... Peace! ---------------------------- The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following amazing folks: Mystery Ranch Need badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch! https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot Brewery Wanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!! https://www.hotshotbrewing.com Not sponsors of The Anchor Point Podcast, but great organizations: The Wildland Firefighter Foundation And, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation! https://wffoundation.org The A.W.E. Wanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation! http://wildfire-experience.org

The Anchor Point Podcast Episode 116 with, Grant Beebe, Assistant Director of BLM Fire and Aviation. On today's episode we will be discussing Wildland Firefighter Pay Parity, Classification, Mental Health Issues, and much more... The wildland firefighting workforce is currently facing a number of challenges, and these issues are the focus of The Anchor Point Podcast Episode 116. The guest on the show today is Grant Beebe, Assistant Director of BLM Fire and Aviation, and the conversation centers around current concerns regarding wildland firefighter pay parity, classification, and mental health issues. One of the primary issues facing wildland firefighters is pay and retention. With the expiration of the BIL pay and benefits supplement in October, many fear that they will be back to the pay schedules and rates that existed before the work of the Grassroots Wildland Firefighters and NFFE. Grant acknowledges the uncertainty and discusses the potential personnel crisis that could result from a lack of equitable pay, benefits, and classification. Beebe believes that pay parity is crucial for the men and women who are the boots on the ground. In his opinion, an equitable pay rate needs to be established, and there should be efforts to retain personnel who are vital to the day-to-day operations of wildland fire ops, including dispatchers, WG, militia, logistics, and secondary fire personnel. Beebe explains that there are plans to address these issues, including temp buyback, insurance and benefits, and classification. However, the question of how to fix these problems remains. Beebe suggests that it may require legislative action. Another issue affecting the wildland firefighting workforce is mental health. Beebe acknowledges that there is a mental health crisis within the ranks and discusses efforts to address the issue. He notes that the BIL provided funding for the development and improvement of mental health programs across all agencies. Beebe discusses some of the programs that are being improved with this funding and notes that there are other mental health programs on the horizon. Beebe also discusses operational changes and concerns, including aviation, fuels, and hiring. He discusses the BLM aviation programs and how they plan to bolster fuels programs without overburdening fire employees who have already worked 1000 hour seasons. Grant also discusses transparency and honesty with hiring. DISCLAIMER: For the topics discussed today: I want to make it absolutely clear that I disagree with some of the things said by Grant in this episode - And I do agree with some of the stuff he says as well. However I will say this: Grant, we're all looking up to you in the Bureau of Land Management. We hope that you have those difficult conversations and listen to the boots on the ground - Because those are the people that have the most skin in the game, and you have the position and power to bridge the gap to do what's right by them. I hope that this is of value and I hope that everyone out there gets to understand Grant from his position and his perspective... Y'all know the drill: Stay safe, stay savage... Peace! The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following amazing folks: Mystery Ranch Need badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch! https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot Brewery Wanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!! https://www.hotshotbrewing.com Not sponsors of The Anchor Point Podcast, but great organizations: The Wildland Firefighter Foundation And, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation! https://wffoundation.org The A.W.E. Wanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation! http://wildfire-experience.org

Welcome to The Anchor Point Podcast episode 115 with: Lucas Garrett, founder of Landsharks Running Company. In this episode, Lucas shares some important running tips and tricks, such as proper recovery, the importance of sleep, why supplements and PEDs are dumb, and how to become an overall better runner... Lucas was a football player who wanted to learn how to run faster, but he was told he didn't need to learn to run because he was an offensive lineman. Despite this, Lucas was determined to prove them wrong. He lost 60 pounds, joined his junior college track team, and ran the 1500 and 800. After junior college, he started competing in triathlons and working on all three disciplines. Lucas' passion for running grew as he discovered that he could compete and loved learning new things about the sport. He earned his Bachelors of Science in Kinesiology and went into the fire service, working up and down the state of California, eventually landing his dream job at the Lodi Fire Department. But Lucas still wanted something more, so he began reading books by top running experts like Jack Daniels, Matt Fitzgerald, Ben Bergeron, Alex Hutchinson, Brad Hudson, Timothy Galley, Steve Magness, and Ryan Hall. It was a podcast episode with Ryan Hall that ignited a fire in Lucas to become a marathoner and running coach. Join us in this episode to learn more about Lucas' journey and how he founded Landsharks Running Company to help others achieve their running goals. Whether you're a seasoned runner or just starting out, Lucas' story will inspire you to never give up, and to make it through the fire season un-injured and an overall better runner! If you want to get ahold of Lucas for either some one on one, or group coaching - Be sure to check out the following links: Website: https://www.landsharksrunningco.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/landsharksrunningco/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/landsharksrunningco Be sure to hit him up! Y'all know the drill: Stay safe, stay savage... Peace! The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following amazing folks: Mystery Ranch Need badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch! https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot Brewery Wanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!! https://www.hotshotbrewing.com Not sponsors of The Anchor Point Podcast, but great organizations: The Wildland Firefighter Foundation And, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation! https://wffoundation.org The A.W.E. Wanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation! http://wildfire-experience.org

Welcome to another episode of The Anchor Point Podcast! In today's episode, we have special guest, Anthony Powers, a former hotshot hailing from Southern California. He has risen through the ranks to become a Captain with the Forest Service, and is now serving as a firefighter for the city of Burbank, CA. Anthony is also the President of the non-profit organization, Hotshot Up, which is dedicated to supporting firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Join us as we delve into Anthony's remarkable journey of service and learn more about Hotshot Up's mission and impact. Anthony Powers is a true Southern California native, born and raised in the region. His passion for firefighting started early on, and he pursued it with unwavering determination. Anthony's career spans across the Angeles National Forest, where he honed his firefighting expertise, and now he serves as a firefighter for the city of Burbank, CA, a role he took on in 2020. In addition to his role as a firefighter, Anthony is also the President of Hotshot Up, a non-profit organization with a noble mission. Hotshot Up is dedicated to supporting firefighters who have lost their lives in the line of duty, particularly those who have fallen while battling wildfires. The organization was officially established as a non-profit in December 2020, but its roots trace back to 2017 when it was founded as the Dalton Hotshots. Hotshot Up's mission is to provide support, assistance, and resources to the families and loved ones of fallen firefighters. They aim to offer financial and practical support during the difficult times following the loss of a firefighter in the line of duty. The organization understands the unique challenges faced by the firefighting community and seeks to alleviate some of the burdens through their programs and initiatives. Anthony is grateful for the unwavering support of his family and everyone who believes in Hotshot Up's mission. He acknowledges the contributions of his team and partners who have worked tirelessly to make a positive difference in the lives of fallen firefighters' families. Their combined efforts and dedication have made Hotshot Up a formidable force in supporting the firefighting community. Anthony's journey from being a So Cal hotshot to becoming a firefighter and President of Hotshot Up is pretty rad. His passion for firefighting and commitment to serving the public and the fire community is commendable. Hotshot Up's mission to support families who have experienced the tragedy of an LODD is making a meaningful impact, and Anthony is grateful for the support he has received. If you want to find out more about the Hotshot Up Foundation, or sign up for the annual volleyball tournament and fundraiser on April 15th, 2023 - Check out the link below! https://www.hotshotup.com/team-registration Thank you for joining us in this episode of The Anchor Point Podcast, and remember to show your support to Hotshot Up and the firefighting community. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and news from the wildland fire community, BY the wildland community! You guys know the drill... Stay safe, stay savage... Peace! The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following amazing folks: Mystery Ranch Need badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch! https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot Brewery Wanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!! https://www.hotshotbrewing.com Not sponsors of The Anchor Point Podcast, but great organizations: The Wildland Firefighter Foundation And, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation! https://wffoundation.org The A.W.E. Wanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation! http://wildfire-experience.org

Wildland firefighting is a difficult but necessary job, and the Grassroots Wildland Firefighters Union (GWFF) and National Federation of Federal Employees Union (NFFE) have made it their mission to bring about changes for better pay and classification for wildland firefighters. Wildland firefighting can be incredibly dangerous and there's no room for error on the line, yet wildland firefighters often don't receive adequate compensation for their efforts. The proposed budget changes under consideration could help bring much-needed relief to our nation’s wildland firefighters. Wildland firefighters have been pushing for a better pay and classification structure for years. Hear from the Grassroots Wildland Firefighters and NFFE about the latest fiscal year 2024 federal budget proposal updates and what they mean for the future of wildland firefighting... In this episode, we catch up with the Grassroots Wildland Firefighters and National Federation of Federal Employees Union to get the latest on their efforts to secure better pay and classification. Wildland Firefighters put their lives on the line every summer in order to protect our national public lands. Learn how you can support Wildland Firefighter Pay Increases and show your appreciation for Wildland Firefighters. If you want to support these men and women, you can do the following: Sign petitions, email your local representatives, share Wildland Firefighter stories, donate to Wildland Firefighter organizations, make your voice heard, contact Wildland Firefighter organizations, and reach out to Wildland Firefighters near you. Wildland Firefighters are a much needed, yet under-appreciated workforce... Let's show our support for them by supporting these Wildland Firefighter Pay increases. Featured guests on this episode: Lucas Mayfield - Grassroots Wildland Firefighters President Randy Irwin - NFFE National President Max Alonzo - NFFE Western Region Business Manager Yvette Piacsek - NFFE Deputy General Counsel Thanks for listening! The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following amazing folks: Mystery Ranch Need badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch! https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot Brewery Wanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!! https://www.hotshotbrewing.com Not sponsors of The Anchor Point Podcast, but great organizations: The Wildland Firefighter Foundation And, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation! https://wffoundation.org The A.W.E. Wanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation! http://wildfire-experience.org

Full disclaimer, this episode is pretty NSFW (Not Safe For Work)! Lets be honest with ourselves for a hot second - The topic of sex is pretty taboo... Many folks out there tend to shy around the subject, and even worse: They don't communicate to their partners about the subject. This can cause problems in the bedroom, which can cause other issues within the relationship... And being in a relationship with a Wildland Firefighter - or, being a Wildland Firefighter in a relationship - Can be difficult at times... (especially with the lack of communication and no cell phone service) That's why we have Associate Family and Marriage Therapist, Destiny Morris, on the show to have an honest, candid, and "life pro-tip" conversation about healthy relationships and a healthy sex life... Here's a little more about Destiny: "Destiny Morris is an associate marriage and family therapist who specializes in first responders and their families! In this podcast we will be discussing sex and first responder relationships- the common struggles as well as tips and tricks to keep the fire alive. Destiny has a remote private practice in Santa Barbara, California, and can see anyone in the state of California." Destiny is one rad therapist, and an advocate for healthy relationships in the first responder community... If you want to find out more about her, or get a visit with her practice - Check out the following links: Instagram - On_Being_Resilient Psychology Today - Destiny Morris I know we primarily talk about male/female relationships in this episode... But, the things we talk about are genuinely universal in nature - no matter what love looks like for you- I just hope this episode helps you folks (in any kind of relationship, or playing the field) to have a better love life, and hopefully "spice it up" in the bedroom... Also - Consider taking a look at that book I mentioned... It's called, "The Adventure Challenge... In Bed" if you're looking to spice it up in the bedroom... Don't worry, its not a "zero-to-kinky shit" kind of book (its pretty tame, actually) - Its more like actually fun (adult) stuff you and your partner can do to better understand each other sexually, and zero in on what gets you and your partner going... (Trust me, its fun) You know the drill... Stay safe, stay savage... Enjoy! ------------------ The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following wonderful folks... Mystery Ranch Need badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch! https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot Brewery Wanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!! https://www.hotshotbrewing.com Not sponsors of The Anchor Point Podcast, but great organizations: The Wildland Firefighter Foundation And, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation! https://wffoundation.org The A.W.E. Wanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation! http://wildfire-experience.org

The Eldorado National Forest is in the house, again! Today on the Anchor Point Podcast: We have the fire "power couple", Kaleena and Matt Lynde, to talk about some of the lesser known career paths in wildland fire, working as a public information officer, fire aviation, and to tell the story of overcoming this shitty thing known as cancer... Kaleena and Matt Lynde met while at WFTC, and started dating after apprenticeship academy. Kaleena headed to an apprentice position on Shasta Lake Hotshots and Matt went to a squad boss position with Big Hill Helitack. At the end of that season, Kaleena was diagnosed with stage 3 ovarian cancer - Matt took on that battle with her.... Now that they have been together for over 16 years, Kaleena is cancer free and they are still in fire... Working their way through different operational fire and aviation positions. These folks are the prime example of two people helping make the other person the best version of themselves. To find out more about Kaleena and Matt, give them a follow on Instagram: Kaleena Lynde - @girl.in.the.mnts Matt Lynde - @lynde.in.the.air You know the drill... Stay safe, stay savage... Enjoy! ------------------ The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following wonderful folks... Mystery Ranch Need badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch! https://www.mysteryranch.com Hotshot Brewery Wanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!! https://www.hotshotbrewing.com Not sponsors of The Anchor Point Podcast, but great organizations: The Wildland Firefighter Foundation And, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation! https://wffoundation.org The A.W.E. Wanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation! http://wildfire-experience.org