The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra

Content Warning: This episode contains graphic content. Welcome back to the hottest podcast in America, literally. Hosted by FDNY Hero and renowned advocate for firefighters, Rob Serra. We’re big fans of Richard “Nav” Naviasky. He was the first guest on the show. He’s a helper and a hero. An historian and a comedian. His 20 year career at the FDNY included 9/11, the 2007 Deutsche Bank fire, and the 2017 Halloween terrorist truck attack. He was on the scene at some of the most harrowing fire calls of the last two decades. And he has bravely spoken out about the health effects he suffered as a result of exposures while on the job. He’s honest about the problems he’s faced, and he’s not letting it hold him back. His attitude is an inspiring look at how you handle adversity. And he’s back for a look back at the last year with Rob. The good and the bad. So this 4th of July we invite you to kick back with a great conversation and an excellent bonus song from Nav himself. He’s just getting started, but once he hits his stride it all comes together. Frankie whips up a delicious Lemon Berry Firecracker Cake that’s a perfect treat for the holiday or any day that ends with a y. 2022 has been a rough year for everyone, but first responders have been getting hit from all angles. But we’ve got your back. “Never forget” isn’t just a hashtag here. If you’re one of America’s Firefighters, a first responder, or the family or a friend of one, this is your new home. Are you a firefighter that has a great story to share? Send it to us at info@righteous.us. And be sure to visit thefirefighters.us for videos, Firefighters merch and more great content. We’re bringing the power of the Righteous Media 5 I’s: Independence, Integrity, Information, Inspiration and impact. You can also watch video of this show with Rob and Frankie on the Firefighters YouTube page. The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra connects, informs and inspires--and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.thefirefighters.us Thanks Join the Squad! Become a member today and support this important show. And get access to exclusive content, merch discounts and more. Learn more at: https://www.patreon.com/thefirefighterspodcast Watch video of Rob and Nav’s conversation here: https://youtu.be/KuJC57DnGDY #StayLow, America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Content Warning: This episode contains graphic content. Welcome back to the hottest podcast in America, literally. Hosted by FDNY Hero and renowned advocate for firefighters, Rob Serra. Firefighters are all about family. The firehouse is a family. And it’s pretty common for firefighters to come from families with many generations of firefighters. It’s who firefighters are. It’s in their DNA. So of course this show is a celebration of all things family. From conversations with his brother and firefighter, Andrew Serra to conversations with the children of 9/11 like Lila Nordstrom, Anthony Greco and Bridget Gormley, family is always a focus of this show. And so this weekend as you kick back and enjoy Father’s Day, host Rob Serra brings the show inside his home for a behind the scenes look at his life, his kids, and his kitchen. And this week that kitchen has been reluctantly wrestled away from Frankie to give another resident chef in the making a chance to shine. Her brother Vincent takes over kitchen duties and whips up a batch of Vodka sauce. It’s a fun and delicious break from the news. Because sometimes we can all use a little break. And speaking of needing a break, Rob breaks down how a recent visit with the rest of the Righteous Media team took him past the WTC memorial and how some shocking developments have happened there. Never forget gets a little more forgotten every day. And forgetting is how history repeats itself. Forgetting is how we end up in the situation our country is in now. Forgetting is how we lose the future. “Never forget” isn’t just a hashtag here. If you’re one of America’s Firefighters, a first responder, or the family or a friend of one, this is your new home. Are you a firefighter that has a great story to share? Send it to us at info@righteous.us. And be sure to visit thefirefighters.us for videos, Firefighters merch and more great content. We’re bringing the power of the Righteous Media 5 I’s: Independence, Integrity, Information, Inspiration and impact. You can also watch video of this show with Rob and Frankie on the Firefighters YouTube page. The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra connects, informs and inspires--and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.thefirefighters.us Thanks Join the Squad! Become a member today and support this important show. And get access to exclusive content, merch discounts and more. Learn more at: https://www.patreon.com/thefirefighterspodcast Watch video of Rob and Frankie’s conversation here: https://youtu.be/TKA6PVH1PEg #StayLow, America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Content Warning: This episode contains graphic content. Welcome back to the hottest podcast in America, literally. Hosted by FDNY Hero and renowned advocate for firefighters, Rob Serra. Every kid grows up dreaming of scoring the winning touchdown, the last second basket, the game winning goal. And every once in a while those dreams come true. But the reality is that most of the time those dreams are never realized. And even when they are, most of us never see the sacrifice that goes into those dreams. The sacrifices the parents make, the siblings. The weight of those dreams is carried by a lot of people. And that’s something firefighters know a lot about. Sacrifice. Duty. Being a part of something bigger than yourself. That’s what being a part of a team is all about. And this week’s guest, Anthony Greco, is the embodiment of one of those dreams. He’s a homegrown hero. The son of a firefighter and a nurse. He works his ass off and this spring he had a chance to get on the ice for the Rangers. It was a special moment. For him, for his family, and for the community of firefighters in New York that knew his father and 9/11 first responder, Paul Greco. So as the Rangers head into the conference finals we’ve got a great conversation to help get you fired up. “Never forget” isn’t just a hashtag here. If you’re one of America’s Firefighters, a first responder, or the family or a friend of one, this is your new home. And no home is complete without a kitchen. This week Frankie imakes Chris Kreider’s favorite meal, gluten free Hawaiian pizza. It’s a long way from a slice of New York pie but honestly it’s pretty darn delicious and we think your family will love it. Are you a firefighter that has a great story to share? Send it to us at info@righteous.us. And be sure to visit thefirefighters.us for videos, Firefighters merch and more great content. We’re bringing the power of the Righteous Media 5 I’s: Independence, Integrity, Information, Inspiration and impact. You can also watch video of this show with Anthony and Rob on the Firefighters YouTube page. The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra connects, informs and inspires--and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.thefirefighters.us Thanks Join the Squad! Become a member today and support this important show. And get access to exclusive content, merch discounts and more. Learn more at: https://www.patreon.com/thefirefighterspodcast Watch video of Rob and Anthony’s conversation here: https://youtu.be/EBgiqYKqkpo #StayLow, America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Content Warning: This episode contains graphic content. Welcome back to the hottest podcast in America, literally. Hosted by FDNY Hero and renowned advocate for firefighters, Rob Serra. September 11 is a painful day in our country’s history. And for much of our country it’s just that. History. But some people have to live with it every day. They have to live with the effects of the toxins. The trauma. The pain. And it doesn’t end there. One of the greatest tragedies of the whole thing is that the trauma is passed along to the children of the first responders. This week we’ve got one of those kids. She’s grown up now, and she’s pissed off. Her father died from 9/11 related illness and as a result, like a lot of our guests and people that listen to this show, she became an accidental activist. Bridget Gormley (@bridget_gormley) is film maker, a producer, an activist, and a helper. Her film Dust is focused on the challenges 9/11 first responders face. From the Dust website: ““DUST” highlights the tragedy of the people who relive 9/11 and deal with its deadly legacy on a daily basis. While their lives were spared that day, they now face a mounting health crisis. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing human toll of 9/11 - nearly two decades later. As thousands continue to die, survivors are forced to fight political and legal battles for recognition and compensation. “DUST” brings the tragedy into the painful present where survivors are still burdened by the past. Up until now, the 9/11 narrative has mostly focused on “what happened”. As tens of thousands continue to become sick, “DUST” explores a new direction in the narrative: “What is happening now, and what have we learned”?” She’s fighting for the right people. Have her back. Support her film. And don’t quit fighting. “Never forget” isn’t just a hashtag here. If you’re one of America’s Firefighters, a first responder, or the family or a friend of one, this is your new home. And no home is complete without a kitchen. Frankie whips up a batch of Firehouse Chili. It’s delicious and we think your family will love it. Are you a firefighter that has a great story to share? Send it to us at info@righteous.us. And be sure to visit thefirefighters.us for videos, Firefighters merch and more great content. We’re bringing the power of the Righteous Media 5 I’s: Independence, Integrity, Information, Inspiration and impact. You can also watch video of this show with Bridget and Rob on the Firefighters YouTube page. The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra connects, informs and inspires--and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.thefirefighters.us Join the Squad! Become a member today and support this important show. And get access to exclusive content, merch discounts and more. Learn more at: https://www.patreon.com/thefirefighterspodcast Watch video of Rob and Bridget’s conversation here: https://youtu.be/1Tda8sFjFRs #StayLow, America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Content Warning: This episode contains graphic content. Welcome back to the hottest podcast in America, literally. Hosted by FDNY Hero and renowned advocate for firefighters, Rob Serra. Sometimes even the worst tragedies can create great things. We bond in the suck, we lift each other up, and we get through the tough times together. The annual Hockey for Heroes matchup between FDNY and NYPD’s hockey teams was born from the tragedy of 9/11. And it’s become a way for the survivors to remember the fallen, and to move forward with their families. It’s a great event every year and this year was no different. We’ve got a great talk with Vinny Lopes, who scored the overtime game winning goal to give FDNY its fifth straight victory. And while we love to bust the cops chops, nobody loses this game. But sometimes losers show up to the games. And before we get to Vinny we’ve got to have a frank discussion about how people are behaving. After the game there was an episode with a rowdy fan chanting profanities aimed at the President. At a totally non-political event, and worst of all they used a lot of profanity in the presence of children. Whatever side you’re on we should all be able to agree that we need to do better. That the anger is unacceptable. That cussing in front of children is unacceptable. The politicians won’t fight for you, why would you fight for them? We can all do better. Frankie is back and this episode she’s cooking Vinny’s Game Winning Sausage and Spinach Pasta. It’s almost as tasty as that game winner was. Almost. “Never forget” isn’t just a hashtag here. If you’re one of America’s Firefighters, a first responder, or the family or a friend of one, this is your new home. Are you a firefighter that has a great story to share? Send it to us at info@righteous.us. And be sure to visit thefirefighters.us for videos, Firefighters merch and more great content. We’re bringing the power of the Righteous Media 5 I’s: Independence, Integrity, Information, Inspiration and impact. You can also watch video of this show with Vinny and Rob on the Firefighters YouTube page. The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra connects, informs and inspires--and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.thefirefighters.us Join the Squad! Become a member today and support this important show. And get access to exclusive content, merch discounts and more. Learn more at: https://www.patreon.com/thefirefighterspodcast Watch video of Rob and Vinny’s conversation here: https://youtu.be/GUU0aT3TEJk #StayLow, America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Content Warning: This episode contains graphic content. Welcome back to the hottest podcast in America, literally. Hosted by FDNY Hero and renowned advocate for firefighters, Rob Serra. On Tuesday, April 12, 2022 a gunman shot 10 people on board a subway in Brooklyn. In addition to firing his handguns at multiple victims, the perpetrator also set off smoke grenades adding to the chaos and confusion. Initial reports were that there was a fire on the subway. That quickly changed as reports of a mass shooting event filtered out. Or as your host Rob Serra put it, “Another fucked up day in the history of New York City.” And you know when it’s a fucked up day in New York, we’re going to talk to someone that was there. Friend of the show and brilliant freelance photographer, Lloyd Mitchell is back. He was one of the first on the scene. After joining us for Episode 13 back in January, he’s returning with another deep dive into what happened in the moments after the attack. It’s a look behind the scenes and that you can only get it here. And just like every other fucked up day in the history of New York, it was the New Yorkers that stepped up and saved lives. And it was New Yorkers that helped catch the shooter. The shooting was an awful moment, but it also exposed some big problems. With the police, but also with the attention people are paying. “Make yourself hard to kill.” It’s good advice from Lloyd (@Lloydphoto) and something that new listeners especially might need to hear. Situational awareness can be the difference between life and death. Especially in times like these. And to wrap it all up with some positivity, Rob’s daughter Frankie shares her favorite recipe: Mac & Peas! It’s delicious and we’re sure your family will love it. “Never forget” isn’t just a hashtag here. If you’re one of America’s Firefighters, a first responder, or the family or a friend of one, this is your new home. Are you a firefighter that has a great story to share? Send it to us at info@righteous.us. And be sure to visit thefirefighters.us for videos, Firefighters merch and more great content. Check out more of Lloyd Mitchell’s work on Twitter @Lloydphoto and Instagram @urbanfirefightingportfolio We’re bringing the power of the Righteous Media 5 I’s: Independence, Integrity, Information, Inspiration and impact. You can also watch video of this show with Al and Rob on the Firefighters YouTube page. The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra connects, informs and inspires--and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.thefirefighters.us Join the Squad! Become a member today and support this important show. And get access to exclusive content, merch discounts and more. Learn more at: https://www.patreon.com/thefirefighterspodcast Watch video of Rob and Lloyd’s conversation here: https://youtu.be/0HbJepWRelA #StayLow, America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Content Warning: This episode contains graphic content. Welcome back to the hottest podcast in America, literally. Hosted by FDNY Hero and renowned advocate for firefighters, Rob Serra. Last episode we heard what led host Rob Serra to become a tireless advocate for the firefighter and first responder community. It’s been a fight he’s fought for 20 years now, and it started when he heard the people in charge, the ones that were supposed to lead, fail him and the other 9/11 first responders. Jason Burns (@jasonburns1) has been fighting that same fight. When he was elected President of Fall River Local 1314 he promised to fight for the health and well being of his constituents. He quickly found out that the fight was a lot bigger and a lot more difficult than anyone would expect. In this hard hitting episode Jason and Rob discuss the impact of OPFAs in gear, how to fix the issue and some of the small but important victories that his and other like minded groups have achieved. And speaking of hard hitting, Rob shares his take on the Will Smith slap heard round the world. It’s a different take. And he nails it. By not talking about Will Smith. And to close it out we’ve got a very special treat. It might not be the most complicated meal she’s prepared, but it’s definitely one of the sweetest moments we’ve had the privilege to capture for the show. Frankie and her Grandpa make burgers and dogs. He has a Peroni, she has a Capri Sun. It’s the perfect family meal. We hope you enjoy it. Never forget isn’t just a hashtag here. If you’re one of America’s Firefighters, a first responder, or the family or a friend of one, this is your new home. Are you a firefighter that has a great story to share? Send it to us at info@righteous.us. And be sure to visit thefirefighters.us for videos, Firefighters merch and more great content. We’re bringing the power of the Righteous Media 5 I’s: Independence, Integrity, Information, Inspiration and impact. You can also watch video of this show with Al and Rob on the Firefighters YouTube page. The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra connects, informs and inspires--and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.thefirefighters.us Join the Squad! Become a member today and get access to exclusive content, merch discounts and more. Learn more at: https://www.patreon.com/thefirefighterspodcast A special thank you to our sponsors, Rocky Boots. We've got a great deal exclusively for our listeners. Use the coupon code FIRE25, and get 25% off at rockyboots.com. It's a great company and a great deal. Watch video of Rob and Al’s conversation here: https://youtu.be/SBee78N45zY #StayLow, America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Content Warning: This episode contains graphic content. Welcome back to the hottest podcast in America, literally. Hosted by FDNY Hero and renowned advocate for firefighters, Rob Serra. This episode we’re giving Rob a well deserved break. Kind of. We’re taking it way back to 2019. To where it all started. And when it all started. Not all heroes wear capes. But every hero has an origin story. And today we’ve got just that. If you’ve never heard it, you’re in for a treat. If you have, it’s worth another listen. In what was the second episode of Righteous Media’s flagship podcast, Rob joined host Paul Rieckhoff for an epic conversation that detailed Rob’s 9/11 experience and how it has shaped his life ever since. And while we’re happy to say that some of what we were fighting for then has been achieved, we’ve still got a long way to go. Sadly, the numbers of 9/11 related fatalities keep climbing. When we recorded this the toll was around 200. Now three years later it is over 500. And it will continue to climb every year. Every month. Every week. That’s why the fight is so important. What happened over 20 years ago continues to haunt the helpers that gave their all to help us recover from the horrible events of 9/11. We owe it to them all to stand by their sides and fight with them to get them the help they desperately need and deserve. Never forget isn’t just a hashtag here. If you’re one of America’s Firefighters, a first responder, or the family or a friend of one, this is your new home. Are you a firefighter that has a great story to share? Send it to us at info@righteous.us. And be sure to visit thefirefighters.us for videos, Firefighters merch and more great content. We’re bringing the power of the Righteous Media 5 I’s: Independence, Integrity, Information, Inspiration and impact. You can also watch video of this show with Al and Rob on the Firefighters YouTube page. The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra connects, informs and inspires--and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.thefirefighters.us Join the Squad! Become a member today and get access to exclusive content, merch discounts and more. Learn more at: https://www.patreon.com/thefirefighterspodcast A special thank you to our sponsors, Rocky Boots. We've got a great deal exclusively for our listeners. Use the coupon code FIRE25, and get 25% off at rockyboots.com. It's a great company and a great deal. #StayLow, America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Content Warning: This episode contains graphic content. Welcome back to the hottest podcast in America, literally. Hosted by FDNY Hero and renowned advocate for firefighters, Rob Serra. It’s Women’s History month and we have a woman who is making history as a guest this week. She’s the first acting female commissioner in FDNY history. Laura Kavanagh (@LauraKavanagh) is changing the game. For the better. She’s changing the thinking around cancer causing chemicals in gear and foam. She’s changing the way things will run to be more sustainable. And she’s changing the minds of young women as to what’s possible. Every year, more and more women join the ranks of firefighters and first responders. It’s a path to a secure career that provides one of the most family friendly environments you could ask for. Change can be a scary thing. But it can also be an inspiration. And the 13 female FDNY Fire Academy graduates, the most in their history, are inspiring all of us here. And they’re inspiring a whole new generation of girls and young women who will follow in their footsteps. Congratulations to all of them. And closer to home, Frankie whips up a batch of Firehouse Pancakes. They’re a family favorite and we think you’re going to love them. Never forget isn’t just a hashtag here. If you’re one of America’s Firefighters, a first responder, or the family or a friend of one, this is your new home. Are you a firefighter that has a great story to share? Send it to us at info@righteous.us. And be sure to visit thefirefighters.us for videos, Firefighters merch and more great content. We’re bringing the power of the Righteous Media 5 I’s: Independence, Integrity, Information, Inspiration and impact. You can also watch video of this show with Al and Rob on the Firefighters YouTube page. The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra connects, informs and inspires--and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.thefirefighters.us Join the Squad! Become a member today and get access to exclusive content, merch discounts and more. Learn more at: https://www.patreon.com/thefirefighterspodcast A special thank you to our sponsors, Rocky Boots. We've got a great deal exclusively for our listeners. Use the coupon code FIRE25, and get 25% off at rockyboots.com. It's a great company and a great deal. Watch video of Rob and Al’s conversation here: https://youtu.be/SBee78N45zY #StayLow, America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Content Warning: This episode contains graphic content. Welcome back to the hottest podcast in America, literally. Hosted by FDNY Hero and renowned advocate for firefighters, Rob Serra. We’re big sports fans here. The Superbowl was great and the playoffs were excellent as well. March Madness is right around the corner. And we’ve got a hot take for you. Firefighters are extreme athletes. Maybe the most extreme. From a cardiovascular perspective at least. No one else has to go from zero to 60 and back to zero again more than firefighters. And despite that they might be the worst prepared for it out of anybody. There’s always those guys that drink like they're fish and eat like there’s no tomorrow. And sometimes they end up being right. Rob’s guest this episode wants to change that. Rob Brown (@Fdnyheart) is a firefighter, a Physician Assistant and the founder of New York Firefighters Heart & Lung in 2002. He is also a Lieutenant with The New York City Fire Department and has been active since 1996. He has been in the Fire Service since 1992 starting out with the Glenwood Fire Department in Long Island, NY. He’s an author, an activist and he’s a helper. His organization has sponsored many different FDNY charities over the years donating more than $100,000 to FDNY charities. He sounds off on a lot of health-related issues, from cancer to COVID. You might not agree with everything he says, but it’s worth a listen and might give you a perspective you haven’t thought about yet. Never forget isn’t just a hashtag here. If you’re one of America’s Firefighters, a first responder, or the family or a friend of one, this is your new home. And speaking of home, Frankie is cooking up a delicious batch of vodka sauce to get your taste buds fired up. We’re hungry just thinking about it. Are you a firefighter that has a great story to share? Send it to us at info@righteous.us. And be sure to visit thefirefighters.us for videos, Firefighters merch and more great content. We’re bringing the power of the Righteous Media 5 I’s: Independence, Integrity, Information, Inspiration and impact. You can also watch video of this show with Al and Rob on the Firefighters YouTube page. The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra connects, informs and inspires--and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.thefirefighters.us Join the Squad! Become a member today and get access to exclusive content, merch discounts and more. Learn more at: https://www.patreon.com/thefirefighterspodcast A special thank you to our sponsors, Rocky Boots. We've got a great deal exclusively for our listeners. Use the coupon code FIRE25, and get 25% off at rockyboots.com. It's a great company and a great deal. Watch video of Rob and Al’s conversation here: https://youtu.be/wVHLUsdQK18 #StayLow, America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Content Warning: This episode contains graphic content. Welcome back to the hottest podcast in America, literally. Hosted by FDNY Hero and renowned advocate for firefighters, Rob Serra. Every firehouse has a character. That one guy that always has a joke, a perfectly timed wisecrack… you know the guy. Maybe you are that guy. This episode we’ve got a real character. A guy that actually was a character, Al Barry. He was a producer and radio personality for years on New York’s legendary Hot 97 (WQHT) hip-hop station before giving it up to become a firefighter. It’s a different path, and it’s a path that took him straight to the heart of September 11th. His squad had reached the 22nd floor of the North Tower when they got the Mayday call to evacuate — that there was danger of imminent collapse — reaching the street just as the building began to collapse. It’s a hard but necessary look back at that horrible day and the time immediately following. It’s as real as it gets. And you can only get it here. Never forget isn’t just a hashtag here. If you’re one of America’s Firefighters, a first responder, or the family or a friend of one, this is your new home. And speaking of home (and of characters) Rob’s daughter Frankie is back to whip up a big batch of Assistant daddy’s (Rob) famous Sunday Sauce! It’s her favorite. It’s our favorite. And pretty soon it will be yours too. Are you a firefighter that has a great story to share? Send it to us at info@righteous.us. And be sure to visit thefirefighters.us for videos, Firefighters merch and more great content. We’re bringing the power of the Righteous Media 5 I’s: Independence, Integrity, Information, Inspiration and impact. You can also watch video of this show with Al and Rob on the Firefighters YouTube page. The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra connects, informs and inspires--and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.thefirefighters.us Join the Squad! Become a member today and get access to exclusive content, merch discounts and more. Learn more at: https://www.patreon.com/thefirefighterspodcast A special thank you to our sponsors, Rocky Boots. We've got a great deal exclusively for our listeners. Use the coupon code FIRE25, and get 25% off at rockyboots.com. It's a great company and a great deal. Watch video of Rob and Al’s conversation here: https://youtu.be/LUIu0NeSQk4 #StayLow, America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Content Warning: This episode contains graphic content. Welcome back to the hottest podcast in America, literally. Hosted by FDNY Hero and renowned advocate for firefighters, Rob Serra. Kids and firefighters have a special connection. There’s nothing like the way a kid’s eyes light up when they see a fire engine go by or the joy you see when they visit a firehouse. And we have a special obligation to protect the kids. For a lot of our listeners, it’s a big motivator for risking their own safety. They want to be helpers. They want to protect the kids. So when tragedies like the recent fires in the Bronx, Philly and now Baltimore take the lives of children, we all mourn. Our guest this episode has a different perspective on this than most people. She wasn’t one of the first responders, she was one of the kids. And now she’s one of the helpers. Lila Nordstrom (@lilainchelsea) was a high school student in lower Manhattan on September 11th. As she explains in this conversation, her school was rushed open in the aftermath of that devastating day to create a sense of normalcy for the country. The results were terrible and the effects are still felt today. It’s just another example of the failings that occurred in the days, weeks and now years that have followed 9/11. If you’re one of America’s Firefighters, a first responder, or the family or a friend of one, this is your new home. Are you a firefighter that has a great story to share? Send it to us at info@righteous.us. And be sure to visit thefirefighters.us for videos, Firefighters merch and more great content. We’re bringing the power of the Righteous Media 5 I’s: Independence, Integrity, Information, Inspiration and impact. You can also watch video of this show with Jeff and Rob on the Firefighters YouTube page. The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra connects, informs and inspires--and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.thefirefighters.us Join the Squad! Become a member today and get access to exclusive content, merch discounts and more. Learn more at: www.patreon.com/thefirefighterspodcast A special thank you to our sponsors, Rocky Boots. We've got a great deal exclusively for our listeners. Use the coupon code FIRE25, and get 25% off at rockyboots.com. It's a great company and a great deal. 🚨🥘🔥 Watch video of Rob and Lila’s conversation here: https://youtu.be/6V9andyRZfA #StayLow, America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Content Warning: This episode contains graphic content. Welcome back to the hottest podcast in America, literally. Hosted by FDNY Hero and renowned advocate for firefighters, Rob Serra. Over the first dozen shows we explored some of New York’s historic fires and worst events with heroic first responders that were there. Sadly on January 9, 2022, New York experienced what will be another historic fire. And we’ve got another first hand account of this terrible event from a slightly different perspective than we normally bring. Rob is joined by the brilliant freeelance photographer Lloyd Mitchell. As the catastrophic event unfolded in the Bronx, Mitchell captured the images that will live on forever. Iconic images that you’ll never forget. When the news is about a fire, it’s never good. And the last weeks have had a lot of stories about fires. From Colorado to Philadelphia the New Year seemed to bring a lot of fire with it. But we’ve got the voices to help guide you through those times. The voices that give you the information you need to help you make the right decisions and make sure you’re as safe as possible. Richard Naviasky, Rob’s guest in Episode 1, drops in to help lend his perspective. Always a helper. Always a hero. And you can be a hero. Help the victims of this fire restart their lives. Donate here. Check out more of Lloyd Mitchell’s work on Twitter @Lloydphoto and Instagram @urbanfirefightingportfolio If you’re one of America’s Firefighters, a first responder, or the family or a friend of one, this is your new home. Are you a firefighter that has a great story to share? Send it to us at info@righteous.us. And be sure to visit thefirefighters.us for videos, Firefighters merch and more great content. We’re bringing the power of the Righteous Media 5 I’s: Independence, Integrity, Information, Inspiration and impact. You can also watch video of this show with Jeff and Rob on the Firefighters YouTube page. The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra connects, informs and inspires--and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.thefirefighters.us Join the Squad! Become a member today and get access to exclusive content, merch discounts and more. Learn more at: www.patreon.com/thefirefighterspodcast A special thank you to our sponsors, Rocky Boots. We've got a great deal exclusively for our listeners. Use the coupon code FIRE25, and get 25% off at rockyboots.com. It's a great company and a great deal. 🚨🥘🔥 Watch video of Rob and Lloyd’s conversation here: https://youtu.be/pjmJCUP1oCA Watch video of Rob and Nav’s conversation here: https://youtu.be/EajxEaFxu30 #StayLow, America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Content Warning: This episode contains graphic content. Before 2022 hits, here’s a holiday, end-of-year rewind to a fan favorite. Episode 2 with Jospeh Cammarata from just after the 20th anniversary of 9/11. From September 17, 2021: Welcome back to the hottest podcast in America, literally. The second episode of the Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra, FDNY (Ret.) returns to the day of September 11, 2001 as former FDNY and NYPD and current attorney Joseph Cammarata joins Rob to share his memories of the brother he lost on that horrible day. Their family was dedicated to service and it shows and these are the kind of people we’re going to celebrate here. The real heroes. The helpers. We’re also going to take a look back at the epic annual Hockey Heroes charity match between FDNY and the NYPD hockey teams. It aired to a national audience—and was an excellent game. The good guys won, but no one really lost. Host Rob Serra (@SerraRob) is America’s leading advocate for firefighters and first-responders. A renowned activist, technical expert and father of three, Rob was born and raised in Staten Island, NY. He began his firefighting career with the FDNY and his first day in the field was September 11th, 2001. While he was not scheduled to work that day, he, along with thousands of others, reported to the World Trade Center to help with the aftermath of the attacks. The 20th anniversary of 9/11 was a time for reflection, a time for remembering. Never forget isn’t just a hashtag. And we won’t forget. And if you’re one of America’s Firefighters, a first responder, or the family or a friend of one... this is your new home. Are you a firefighter that has a great story to share? Send it to us at info@righteous.us and be sure to visit thefirefighters.us for videos, Firefighters merch and more great content. We’re bringing the power of the Righteous Media 5 I’s: Independence, Integrity, Information, Inspiration and impact. You can also watch video of this show with Joseph Cammarata on the Righteous YouTube page. The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra connects, informs and inspires--and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.thefirefighters.us Join the Squad! Become a member today and get access to exclusive content, merch discounts and more. Learn more at: www.patreon.com/thefirefighterspodcast You can also watch video of this full conversation: https://youtu.be/K83fWzx5PF4 #StayLow America. A special thank you to our sponsors, Rocky Boots. We've got a great deal exclusively for our listeners. Use the coupon code FIRE25, and get 25% off at rockyboots.com. It's a great company and a great deal. 🚨🥘🔥 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Content Warning: This episode contains graphic content. Welcome back to the hottest podcast in America, literally. Hosted by FDNY Hero and renowned advocate for firefighters, Rob Serra. Some days everything goes wrong. Sunday, January 23, 2005 was one of those days. At 7:59AM three alarms were called. The FDNY’s Engine Company 42, Ladder Company 33, Ladder Company 27, and Rescue Company 3 all responded. What should have been a textbook fire, turned horribly tragic when six firefighters became trapped in a burning maze of illegally constructed tenements. They were forced to jump from the windows. John G. Bellew and Lieutenant Curtis W. Meyran died trying to escape and Brendan Cawley, Jeff Cool, Joe DiBernardo, and Gene Stolowski, were all severely injured and forced to retire as a result of their injuries. Jeff Cool shares his heroic story of what happened that day, and the challenges he’s faced since. It’s a harrowing story. And he was one of the lucky ones. And when you hear what could have prevented the tragedy, it will leave you shocked and angry. But we’re not going to back down. It’s a fight that we’re going to keep fighting. If you’re one of America’s Firefighters, a first responder, or the family or a friend of one, this is your new home. Are you a firefighter that has a great story to share? Send it to us at info@righteous.us. And be sure to visit thefirefighters.us for videos, Firefighters merch and more great content. We’re bringing the power of the Righteous Media 5 I’s: Independence, Integrity, Information, Inspiration and impact. You can also watch video of this show with Jeff and Rob on the Firefighters YouTube page. The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra connects, informs and inspires--and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.thefirefighters.us Join the Squad! Become a member today and get access to exclusive content, merch discounts and more. Learn more at: www.patreon.com/thefirefighterspodcast A special thank you to our sponsors, Rocky Boots. We've got a great deal exclusively for our listeners. Use the coupon code FIRE25, and get 25% off at rockyboots.com. It's a great company and a great deal. 🚨🥘🔥 You can also watch video of this full conversation: https://youtu.be/0HepbfV7GqA #StayLow, America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Content Warning: This episode contains graphic content. Welcome back to the hottest podcast in America, literally. Firefighters are a family. We eat together, we laugh together, and we share in the good times and the bad. Together. And that’s what we’re going to do in this episode. We’re going to gather our family and we’re going to remember some of the people that aren’t here with us anymore. Andrew Serra @AndrewSerraAuth, brother of host Rob, is Captain of FDNY Ladder 20 in Soho. He’s back for a look back at the story of the first line of duty funeral he and Rob attended back on December 2, 1984 for close family friend and Staten Island firefighter Phil D’Adamo. His loss is still felt today, by his family and friends, but also by his brothers in the firehouse. There’s a great story that's a hilarious tribute to Phil’s sense of humor and a lot of other great memories you don’t want to miss. We’ve also got an introduction you’re going to love. You’ll get to meet Tank, FDNY’s latest dalmatian pup and New York’s future ‘most famous’ dog. If you’re one of America’s Firefighters, a first responder, or the family or a friend of one... this is your new home. Are you a firefighter that has a great story to share? Send it to us at info@righteous.us and be sure to visit thefirefighters.us for videos, Firefighters merch and more great content. We’re bringing the power of the Righteous Media 5 I’s: Independence, Integrity, Information, Inspiration and impact. You can also watch video of this show with Andrew and Rob on the Firefighters YouTube page. The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra connects, informs and inspires--and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.thefirefighters.us Join the Squad! Become a member today and get access to exclusive content, merch discounts and more. Learn more at: www.patreon.com/thefirefighterspodcast A special thank you to our sponsors, Rocky Boots. We've got a great deal exclusively for our listeners. Use the coupon code FIRE25, and get 25% off at rockyboots.com. It's a great company and a great deal. 🚨🥘🔥 You can also watch video of this full conversation: https://youtu.be/ufFaNDenNfY #StayLow America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Content Warning: This episode contains graphic content. Welcome back to the hottest podcast in America, literally. And we’ve got a new episode to really heat up your Thanksgiving. If you’re a firefighter or a first responder, chances are you’ve seen some things that most people never experience. Sometimes, truly horrible things. Things that stay with you. And Rob’s guest this episode is one of a small group of volunteers that can help when you experience those moments. Tina Cosentino is a helper. Providing Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) support, Tina and other volunteers help first Responders, military, veterans and Gold Star Families when overwhelming situations arise. They provide advocacy, crisis intervention support, suicide intervention support, line of duty death support, medical complexity support and most importantly… family support. It’s an important episode. And the advice Tina shares could help you or a loved one deal with issues that can have a cascade of negative effects that last a lifetime. Give it a listen. She will help you be a better helper. And nothing is better or more important than that. If you’re one of America’s Firefighters, a first responder, or the family or a friend of one... this is your new home. Are you a firefighter that has a great story to share? Send it to us at info@righteous.us and be sure to visit thefirefighters.us for videos, Firefighters merch and more great content. We’re bringing the power of the Righteous Media 5 I’s: Independence, Integrity, Information, Inspiration and impact. You can also watch video of this show with Tina on the Firefighters YouTube page. The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra connects, informs and inspires--and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.thefirefighters.us Join the Squad! Become a member today and get access to exclusive content, merch discounts and more. Learn more at: www.patreon.com/thefirefighterspodcast A special thank you to our sponsors, Rocky Boots. We've got a great deal exclusively for our listeners. Use the coupon code FIRE25, and get 25% off at rockyboots.com. It's a great company and a great deal. 🚨🥘🔥 You can also watch video of this full conversation: https://youtu.be/0ixFDD7GDgM #StayLow America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Content Warning: This episode contains graphic content. Welcome back to the hottest podcast in America, literally. This show is about honoring our firefighters. And today’s episode nails it again. 89-year-old Don Blaskovich was there for one of New York’s deadliest fires, the infamous Wooster Street Collapse on Valentine’s Day, 1958. You read that right. 1958. It was a tragic story that led to a lot of changes. Changes in how fires were fought. And changes in how they were prevented. And Don was there, first hand. It’s a great one, you don’t want to miss. Don takes us back to another era. He shares stories that are going to sound real familiar. Some things never change. And sometimes, that’s a good thing. If you’re one of America’s Firefighters, a first responder, or the family or a friend of one... this is your new home. Are you a firefighter that has a great story to share? Send it to us at info@righteous.us and be sure to visit thefirefighters.us for videos, Firefighters merch and more great content. We’re bringing the power of the Righteous Media 5 I’s: Independence, Integrity, Information, Inspiration and impact. You can also watch video of this show with Mike on the Righteous YouTube page. The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra connects, informs and inspires--and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.thefirefighters.us Join the Squad! Become a member today and get access to exclusive content, merch discounts and more. Learn more at: www.patreon.com/thefirefighterspodcast A special thank you to our sponsors, Rocky Boots. We've got a great deal exclusively for our listeners. Use the coupon code FIRE25, and get 25% off at rockyboots.com. It's a great company and a great deal. 🚨🥘🔥 You can also watch video of this full conversation: https://youtu.be/06mK5EURcR4 #StayLow America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Content Warning: This episode contains graphic content. Welcome back to the hottest podcast in America, literally. Joe McKay was at Ground Zero on 9/11. He lost a lot of friends that day. And shortly afterwards, he lost something else. As a result of his exposures he began experiencing a rare condition called “Cluster Headaches”. It’s a debilitating condition and there were very few medical options for relief. None were effective. But Joe didn’t give up and his search for relief led him down a different sort of path. With the approval and oversight of a trained medical professional Joe turned to psychedelics and experienced great results. Mind blowing results. Results that gave him back his life. And allowed him to feel happy again. It’s an eye opening conversation. It’s an inspiring conversation. And you can only get it here. If you’re one of America’s Firefighters, a first responder, or the family or a friend of one... this is your new home. Are you a firefighter that has a great story to share? Send it to us at info@righteous.us and be sure to visit thefirefighters.us for videos, Firefighters merch and more great content. We’re bringing the power of the Righteous Media 5 I’s: Independence, Integrity, Information, Inspiration and impact. You can also watch video of this show with Joe on the Righteous YouTube page. The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra connects, informs and inspires--and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.thefirefighters.us Join the Squad! Become a member today and get access to exclusive content, merch discounts and more. Learn more at: www.patreon.com/thefirefighterspodcast A special thank you to our sponsors, Rocky Boots. We've got a great deal exclusively for our listeners. Use the coupon code FIRE25, and get 25% off at rockyboots.com. It's a great company and a great deal. 🚨🥘🔥 You can also watch video of this full conversation: https://youtu.be/lGMbmzXU9iE #StayLow America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Content Warning: This episode contains graphic content. Welcome back to the hottest podcast in America, literally. This episode is taking it back. Way back. To day one and the very first guy Rob met when he got to the Firehouse. They ended up becoming great friends and 20 years later they’re still as close as it gets. And they have some honest conversations about some tough subjects. For more than 25 years Captain Mike McCaffery served the city of New York. First as a police officer in the 120th precinct, and later as a firefighter in Engine 216 where he met Rob. He was then promoted to lieutenant in Engine 201 and finally as the Captain of Engine 228. He has been a fierce advocate for his fellow firefighters and was a huge part of the passage of the Zadroga Act. He’s a helper and he’s a hero. He’d never say that, but we will. If you’re one of America’s Firefighters, a first responder, or the family or a friend of one... this is your new home. Are you a firefighter that has a great story to share? Send it to us at info@righteous.us and be sure to visit thefirefighters.us for videos, Firefighters merch and more great content. We’re bringing the power of the Righteous Media 5 I’s: Independence, Integrity, Information, Inspiration and impact. You can also watch video of this show with Mike on the Righteous YouTube page. The Firefighters Podcast with Rob Serra connects, informs and inspires--and is powered by Righteous Media. On social media or www.thefirefighters.us Join the Squad! Become a member today and get access to exclusive content, merch discounts and more. Learn more at: www.patreon.com/thefirefighterspodcast A special thank you to our sponsors, Rocky Boots. We've got a great deal exclusively for our listeners. Use the coupon code FIRE25, and get 25% off at rockyboots.com. It's a great company and a great deal. 🚨🥘🔥 You can also watch video of this full conversation: https://youtu.be/qllST2QqtTY #StayLow America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices