Station Talk

On this episode, Nick & Tom are honored to sit down with Dennis Reilly, a retired Fire Chief with 50 years of fire service experience. Dennis shares hard-earned insights on leadership, human performance in high-threat environments, training, and fireground operations. Drawing from decades of service across multiple generations of firefighters, this conversation goes beyond tactics to explore mindset, team dynamics under stress, and what it truly means to lead when the stakes are high. No matter where you are in your career—probie, senior firefighter, or officer—this episode delivers perspective you can apply on and off the fireground.About - First Line Fire Service Training

This special episode of Station Talk marks the first collaboration between The Firehouse Tribune and the 5-Alarm Task Force. We are honored to re-release episodes from the 5-Alarm Task Force on our platform in recognition of the legacy, dedication, and impact of our great friend, Steve Greene—the longtime host and driving force behind the show. This collaboration stands as a tribute to Steve’s commitment to the fire service and the conversations that continue to shape it.

On this episode, we are joined by Battalion Chief Danny Arroyo from the Perth Amboy Fire Department. Danny also serves as Chief of Training, Chair of the New Jersey FMBA Education and Training Committee, works with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, and runs Fire Training and Consultants LLC. We dive into training, leadership, and tactics, and more importantly how those things actually affect firefighters on scene. Fire Training & ConsultantsNational Fallen Firefighters Foundation

On this episode, we are joined by Fire Chief Kris Childress of the Keowee Fire District in South Carolina. With 16 years in the fire service, Kris has built his career around leadership, mentoring, and maximizing performance in small departments. As one of the youngest chiefs in his area, he brings a fresh yet grounded perspective on leading from the front, building trust within a team, and navigating the challenges that come with limited staffing and resources. We discuss leadership, mentorship, and what it takes to keep small departments strong and effective.

On this episode we’re joined by Firefighter Christopher Whyte from the Elizabeth Fire Department, who also serves as the CISM Team Coordinator for the New Jersey FMBA. With over 16 years in the fire service, including both volunteer and career experience, Chris brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for firefighter education and growth. He’s also the creator of Garden State Size Up, a platform dedicated to promoting fireground awareness, training, and leadership throughout New Jersey. We sat down to talk about his work, the importance of size-up, and how firefighters can sharpen their decision-making on the job.

On this episode of the Station Talk Podcast, we’re honored to welcome retired FDNY Firefighter Joseph Bonanno. With 21 years on the job, Joe has dedicated his life to the fire service both on and off the rig. Following the loss of his brother Michael, also of the FDNY, to suicide in 2012, Joe has become a strong advocate for firefighter mental health and wellness. He’s also the creator of American Firehouse Cuisine — a cookbook and cooking show that brings together his passion for firehouse cooking, nutrition, and brotherhood. We’re excited to talk about his journey, his mission, and the impact he continues to make in the fire service community. Home - FDNY Firefighter/Chef Joseph T. Bonanno

On this episode, we sit down with Chief Dave Robertson to explore how chief-level officers can bridge the gap between frontline firefighters and white-shirt leadership. Chief Robertson dives into the dichotomy of leadership—balancing command presence with approachability—and shares insights on why hiring for character is crucial to building a resilient and effective team. We also discuss practical strategies to engage new fire officers and emphasize the ongoing importance of training and competency in shaping tomorrow’s leaders.

On this episode, Nick & Tom sit down with Battalion Chief Patrick Wirkus of the City of Elizabeth Fire Dept (NJ) to discuss chief officers as division supervisors on the fire ground. They discuss the premise of the concept, how and when to implement it and about his journey through continually learning in the fire service. This conversation was based on his article "Using Chief Officers as Division Supervisors" published in Fire Engineering. Chief Wirkus is also the owner of Division Command Training, LLC.

On this episode, we sit down with Firefighter Chris Maleta, the founder of Carry the Flag. Chris brings with him 17 years of experience and a mission-driven mindset that’s helped launch a brand that resonates with patriotism, service, and leadership. We’re excited to dive into his story, the purpose behind the brand, and the lessons he’s picked up along the way. www.carrytheflagusa.com

On this episode, Nick & Tom sit down with Brandon Smith of Beating Disability Daily to discuss his time in the US Air Force, his injuries sustained from a rough landing while on a mission in the Middle East and how the injuries lead to physical and mental trauma for years following. Further, they discuss how Brandon overcame in the physical and mental injuries and how he is using his voice as a platform to help other veterans, and many others overcome the battles of mental and physical trauma they are experiencing.

In this episode of the podcast, I’m joined by Lieutenant Paul Patrikis, who brings 16 years of combined career and volunteer fire service experience and currently serves with the Simpsonville Fire Department in South Carolina. Paul is also the owner of Paulie’s RX Burns. We dive into the world of wildfires—how they vary across different parts of the country—and explore the critical role prescribed burns play in protecting our communities and ecosystems.

On this episode, Nick & Tom had the honor to sit down with retired Battalion Chief Andy Starnes and owner of Insight Fire Training to discuss all things thermal imagining. They discuss Andy’s curriculum is used internationally, and his expertise which has contributed to the development of several thermal imaging cameras and the first thermography-based firefighter certification credentialed through Western Kentucky University. Nick and Tom also dive into Andy's deep involvement in firefighter wellness and advocacy, serving as a board member of the 5-Alarm Task Force and supporting numerous first responder charities. Insight Training LLC – Thermal Imaging Training Consultants

From North England to across the pond, we sat down with Crew Manager James Meredith to explore the differences between UK and US firefighting. From operations to mental health and culture, James shared real talk and valuable insight from 15 years on the job. It's more than tactics, it's about people, passion, and purpose on both sides of the Atlantic. Tap in to hear the full episode on Station Talk! IG: Stokeandvent

On this episode, the boys sit down with retired Chief Tony Correia to discuss emotional intelligence and character in today's fire service. Tony discusses tackling an essential but often overlooked topic: Emotional Intelligence & Character in the Fire Service. What does it mean to lead with emotional intelligence? How does character impact decision-making, teamwork, and resilience in this high-stakes profession?

In this episode, Tom discussed mindfulness meditation for first responders with John Grandinetti, Captain of the Eloy Fire District in Eloy, Arizona. Mindfulness meditation has emerged as a vital tool for first responders, providing them with essential techniques to manage stress and enhance overall well-being. The rigorous demands of their profession can lead to heightened anxiety and emotional fatigue; thus, integrating mindfulness practices into their daily routines can significantly mitigate these effects. By fostering present-moment awareness, first responders can better process traumatic experiences, improve their focus, and strengthen resilience. Regular mindfulness meditation promotes mental clarity and encourages a compassionate approach towards themselves and the communities they serve. Ultimately, embracing mindfulness can lead to healthier, more balanced lives for those on the front lines, ensuring they are better equipped to handle the challenges of their vital roles. Tune in to this great conversation on your favorite podcast-listening platform!

On the episode, Nick & Tom sit down with EJ Henninger of Building Firefighter Development to discuss his newly published article in Fire Engineering, " Success Starts Early: Building Knowledge and Relationships for Effective Operations" and how and why building relationships with town officials, zoning boards and building managers plays a role in your early preplanning and building sizeups. Building Firefighter Development

On this episode, Nick and Tom had the pleasure to discuss leadership with retired Lt. Colonel Oakland McCulloch of the United States Army. Oak discusses what leadership means to him, how to establish a winning culture and the importance of a professional leadership developmental program. Home | Your Leadership Legacy | LTC Oak McCulloch | United States Amazon.com: Your Leadership Legacy: Becoming the Leader You Were Meant to Be: 9781952037108: McCulloch, Oakland: Books Oakland McCulloch - Keynote Speaker - Your Leadership Legacy | LinkedIn https://www.instagram.com/ltcoakmcculloch https://www.facebook.com/ltcoakmcculloch http://www.youtube.com/@ltcroaklandmcculloch2878

Tom sat down with Firefighter Jeffrey Price of the Windsor Heights Fire Department (IA) to discuss tips, tricks and tactics revolving around shorthanded firefighting, a situation that affects fire departments across our country.

Nick and Tom sit down with Battalion Chief Eric Dreiman of the Indianapolis Fire Department to discuss the in's & out's of VES from door control and making entry to window and ladder selection. Eric Dreiman, Author at Fire Engineering: Firefighter Training and Fire Service News, Rescue The Firehouse Tribune

On this episode, Nick & Tom sit down and discuss Tip #1 of Tom's presentation "Six Tips to Guiding the New Fire Officer". This episode focuses on the importance of studying up and having knowledge of all aspects of the job. Your training shouldn't stop just because you have a title. Follow & Support Us: Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Firehouse Tribune⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Firehouse Tribune ™️ (@fhtribune) • Instagram photos and videos⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Twitter (X): @FHTribune LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-firehouse-tribune-llc⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.youtube.com/@thefirehousetribune2287⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Support Us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Fire Dept Coffee ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 15% off Frontline Optics using promo code 'FHTribune' at checkout - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Frontline Optics (frontline-optics.com)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠JOCKO FUEL NUTRITION (originmaine.com)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 5-Alarm Task Force Corp. - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠5-ALARM TASK FORCE CORP. - 5-Alarm Task Force Corp⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Next Rung - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Next Rung⁠⁠⁠ Filo Apparel - ⁠⁠Nomex Pants, Nomex Class B Shirts | FILO Apparel