National Fire Radio

In this episode, Pip and his guest, Mike Torres, discuss the importance of living in the moment and cherishing personal interactions. They reflect on their past experiences and the impact of their friendship. The conversation then shifts to Mike's weight loss journey and his decision to undergo gastric bypass surgery. They discuss the challenges and benefits of the surgery, as well as the importance of finding a sustainable lifestyle that works for each individual. In this part of the conversation. Pip and Mike discuss the changes they have experienced in their careers and personal lives. They reflect on how age, maturity, and new responsibilities have influenced their behavior and decision-making. They also talk about the fear and uncertainty that comes with making significant changes, such as switching departments or taking on new roles. They emphasize the importance of being present for their families and the challenges of balancing personal and professional commitments. Overall, they highlight the significance of embracing change and being honest and transparent with oneself and others. They touch on the sacrifices they have made in their careers and the impact of loss on personal development. Because, what you do off the job, MATTERS!!!

During an interview in 2020, Jeremy and Mickey discussed the importance of sharing knowledge and experiences in the fire service. Mickey shared that he kept a journal and notes throughout his career, which inspired his Instagram posts. Jeremy emphasized the significance of providing practical tactics in his content, avoiding fluff, and focusing on engaging and sparking conversations within the fire service community. Mickey also highlighted the gap between the fire academy and the fire floor, stressing the need to bridge this gap and pass on valuable knowledge to young firefighters. They both agreed on the importance of leaving a legacy and sharing experiences to inspire and educate future generations.

Battalion Chief Tony Bratcher has doubled down on the fire service. His dedication and passion to his job shows through his understanding of paying it forward. He works hard to empower the people around him and he knows that in order to leave a legacy behind, it requires hard work and the next generation. Not only does he believe in educating those around him, he recognizes the importance of letting your people work while promoting a positive, family focused atmosphere in and out of the firehouse. Tony is a member of the Kitchen Table Podcast, KTP, and works hard at spreading the good word about the fire service. His commitment is steadfast while continuing to be a student of the craft he loves.

Jeremy sits down with some members of the Lower Township Fire District #2, Town Bank, NJ to discuss their 2022 Tower Ladder build from Fire and Safety Services, NJ. This new Pierce apparatus is the May featured truck in the 2024 Calendar project. A big part of understanding the apparatus builds is understanding the department and how they operate. So many factors go into the design and operations of a new apparatus. Looking at the final build is always easier to understand when you know why they built what they did. This conversation talks about the department, their membership, history and legacy as well as the future of the department. -- For more information on this build and the others in the 2024 Calendar project, go to www.f-ss.com or visit our YouTube channel.

Jeremy sits down with NFR podcast alum Kamron Gangbin and his two west coast Brothers, Jack Ayers and Joey Schuller. Backstage pass, passing the baton and preserving legacy in the fire service are all part of this conversation during FDIC 2024.

The Size Up Episode 67. FDIC by Jeremy Donch and Robert Ridley

Today Mickey discusses the purpose and role of the Rapid Intervention Team (RIT) or Fast Truck in firefighting. It traces the history of RITs and highlights the importance of understanding their main objective. The conversation emphasizes the need for RIT members to be proactive and engaged on the fire ground, rather than just standing by. Be passionate and knowledgeable about the fire service.

In this conversation, Mickey interviews Zack Newton, an artist and firefighter, on the floor at the FDIC. They discuss the importance of the fire service, brotherhood, and the impact of social media on their lives. They also talk about the inspiration behind Zack's artwork and how it reflects the universal nature of firefighters. The conversation emphasizes the love for the job and the desire to make a difference in the fire service.

On this episode of The Size Up Hannah discusses her background growing up with a firefighter father and her journey from studying veterinary medicine to becoming a firefighter herself. She shares how her experiences in the veterinary field have influenced her approach to the fire service and the importance of proactive thinking and independent decision-making. Hannah also highlights the value of reading between the lines and observing patients' non-verbal cues. Overall, her story exemplifies the 'what the heck, why not' mindset and the willingness to take leaps of faith. Hannah Waddell discusses her transition from veterinary medicine to firefighting, the challenges she faced, and her passion for serving the community. She shares her experiences working with horses and teaching veterinary students, as well as the physical and mental demands of firefighting. Hannah emphasizes the importance of finding fulfillment and meaning in one's career and the value of teamwork and camaraderie in the fire service. She also talks about her decision to move closer to her family and her love for reading and travel. Because what you do off the job, MATTERS!!!!

In this episode, Pip celebrates the anniversary of his podcast and discusses the importance of consistency. He is joined by Chance Craven, a digital creator and former firefighter, who shares his journey into digital creation and photography. They discuss the evolution of social media and its impact on communication and relationships. Chance emphasizes the need for caution and authenticity on social media. They also explore the role of media in honoring firefighters and educating the community about the fire service. The episode highlights the importance of storytelling and the challenges of navigating media in the fire service. The conversation explores the importance of authenticity in the fire service and how it impacts recruitment, communication, and teamwork. It emphasizes the need for fire departments to control the narrative and showcase their authenticity through social media and other platforms. The discussion also highlights the different skill sets and strengths within the fire service and the importance of recognizing and valuing these differences. In this conversation, Chance and Pip discuss various topics related to personal growth and self-awareness. They also discuss the importance of recognizing strengths and weaknesses and accepting limitations. The conversation emphasizes the value of learning from mistakes and finding purpose in life. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the symbolism behind the Honor Supply Co. brand and a fun round of the Size Up 10 questions. Causing you to ask yourself the question. What’s My Size Up??? Because, what you do off the job, MATTERS!!!

In this episode of A View From The Top Floor, Mickey and Jeremy dive into “The Floor Above” discussing various questions that were submitted in regard to firefighting tactics and strategies. They address questions about searching above a fire without a charge hose line, the importance of focusing on strategies and tactics. They emphasize the need for adaptability and understanding that firefighting is not a one-size-fits-all approach. The conversation highlights the importance of regional considerations, consistency, and attention to detail in the fire service.

Lunch with Ray McCormack is always alot of fun. In person podcasts are always much more fun and when I have the opportunity to catch up with a friend, I jump at it. We recorded our time together while breaking bread and sharing a drink. The conversation is nothing more than that, a conversation between two friends. With or without the camera and microphones, this is lunch with Ray and I cherish opportunities like this. So, join us!!

Thomas J. Trzepacz is a highly experienced and dedicated professional currently serving as the Vice President of Sales & Customer Relations at Performance Advantage Company (PAC), a role he has held since April 2007. Located in Lancaster, New York, PAC specializes in manufacturing and marketing high-quality tool mounting brackets, with a primary focus on the fire industry, providing specialty tool mounting solutions for fire apparatus. Beyond his successful career at PAC, Thomas has a deep-rooted connection to the fire service. A 27-year Life Member of the Bowmansville Vol. Fire Association in New York, he is part of a proud tradition as a third-generation firefighter, with his son continuing the legacy as a fourth-generation firefighter. Thomas has held various leadership roles within the fire service, including past Chief for ten years, Assistant Chief, Captain, Lieutenant, and currently serves as a Lieutenant and Vice President of the Bowmansville Vol. Fire Association. His commitment extends beyond his local fire department as he has also served as the President of the Erie County Fire Chiefs and is currently the Financial Secretary and Radio Coordinator for the Lancaster / Alden Fire Chiefs Association. Thomas's extensive volunteer experience, coupled with his work at Performance Advantage Company, highlights a career dedicated to serving and enhancing the fire service community. His leadership roles, both in his professional career and volunteer service, reflect a deep understanding and commitment to the mindset required for effective emergency response and the importance of proper equipment layout in fire apparatus, emphasizing safety, efficiency, and reliability.

TJ Prieur, a Frederick County, MD Firefighter, has come to understand who he is. This fascinating conversation discusses his journey, recognizing the traumas that influenced his life, and ultimately choosing the hard path to find peace and wellness. It took him a long time to figure out what he needed and more so, what he wanted out of life. Finding his home in Frederick County, MD, everything was back on track and going smoothly until TJ found himself as part of the RIT Team who pulled Captain Josh Laird out of burning building. The events of this LODD certainly added to the traumas TJ has faced along his path and it played a part un recognizing the importance of life. His story is powerful and one that resonates with many of us. Today, TJ finds himself working with others teaching the process through programs like Mind the Frontline and Framework to Freedom.

In this episode, Marcus and Stephanie share their experiences as a married couple working in the fire service and competing in Strongman competitions. Marcus discusses his journey in the fire service and how he got into Strongman, while Stephanie shares her background and motivation for joining the fire service. They both emphasize the importance of physical fitness in the fire service and how it contributes to their overall health and happiness. Marcus also talks about his injury and recovery process, highlighting the challenges he faced and the determination to come back stronger. Overall, their story showcases the benefits of physical fitness and the supportive community within the fire service. Marcus and Stephanie Waugh discuss Marcus's journey to winning the Arnold Strongman Classic. Marcus shares his training experience and the nerves he felt leading up to the competition. He describes the events he competed in and the emotional moment when he realized he had won. Marcus and Stephanie also discuss the strength of women in strongman and the importance of functional strength for firefighters. They talk about the support they received from their gym and sponsors, as well as their future plans in the sport. Causing you to ask yourself the question. What’s My Size Up??? Because, what you do off the job, MATTERS!!!

Running on the fire ground is a debatable topic in the firefighting community. Some argue that running is necessary in certain situations, while others believe it should be avoided. The key is to understand the tempo of each fire and act accordingly. Training to run on the fire ground without considering the flow state of the fire can lead to misguided skill sets and blurred vision of speed versus purpose. It's important to prioritize the safety of the firefighters and make decisions based on rational thought rather than emotional reaction.

In this episode, Mickey and Anthony discuss the importance of engine company pride and culture. They highlight the significance of maintaining traditions. They also emphasize the importance of cleanliness and taking pride in the rig. The conversation touches on the role of the engine and truck companies in firefighting tactics, including the coordination between them and the importance of communication. They stress the need for a strong connection between the engine and truck companies, especially when operating above the fire. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of company pride, attention to detail, and maintaining the traditions and culture of the engine company.

Captain Ben Vernon from the San Diego Fire Department shares his experience of a violent incident on June 24, 2015, and the mental health challenges he faced as a result. The incident started as a routine call but quickly escalated, leading to a physical altercation. Captain Vernon reflects on the dangers of overconfidence and complacency in high-stress situations. Despite his attempts to deescalate the situation, he found himself facing a trained killer. Benjamin reflects on the strange reactions and mindset that can occur during a fight, drawing from personal experiences and the insights of others. The conversation delves into the reality of violence in EMS careers and the psychological impact of violent attacks, including nightmares and mental health challenges.

In this conversation, Chief Carl Bittenbender and Deputy Chief Scott Freedman discuss the design and build process of their new apparatus, Quint 2235. They highlight the challenges of a growing department and the need for apparatus that can adapt to changing needs. The conversation emphasizes the importance of designing a truck with a purpose and involving a representative committee in the build process. They also discuss the significance of pre-construction meetings and building relationships with dealers and manufacturers.

In this episode, Pip pays tribute to his late friend Erin Varga and emphasizes the importance of giving back. He then chats with Sean Eagen about his DJing career and the challenges of the wedding industry. They also discuss their children's athletic pursuits and the ups and downs of being a sports fan. Sean shares his experiences as a captain in the Buffalo Fire Department and the impact of tragedy on the department. They also touch on the evolution of mental health support in the fire service and the challenges of promotion. Sean Eagen discusses the changes in the fire service throughout his career and the transition to brewing beer as a hobby. He shares his journey from starting with a simple beer-making kit to becoming a passionate brewer. Sean highlights the process and enjoyment of brewing beer, as well as the challenges and rewards of working in a commercial brewery. The conversation also touches on the misuse of alcohol in the fire service and the importance of addressing this issue. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the need for balance and self-improvement both on and off the job. In this conversation, Sean Eagen and Pip discuss the importance of protecting loved ones, changing the fire service culture, and balancing personal and professional lives. They emphasize the need for listening and understanding, as well as the benefits of finding healthy coping mechanisms and supportive relationships. Causing you to ask yourself the question. What’s My Size Up??? Because, What you do off the job, MATTERS!!!