Fireground Strategies: Heat, Hydration, and The Human Factor In this episode of Fireground Strategies, hosts Jim Duffy and Anthony Avillo cover the critical challenges firefighters face battling extreme heat. They explore how scorching temperatures and high humidity impact operational effectiveness and safety, emphasizing the strain on cardiovascular health, hydration needs, and the importance of strict rehab policies on the fireground. Candid insights reveal the human factors—ego, emotion, and ...
Jul 12, 2025•1 hr 8 min•Ep. 2103
Perspectives on Leadership: Advocacy, Connection, and Succession with Lindsay Judah In this insightful episode of Perspectives on Leadership, host Steve Shaw welcomes Lindsay Judah to explore the multifaceted responsibilities that define modern fire service leadership. Judah shares her extensive journey from firefighter to rescue chief and consultant, highlighting her passion for advocacy, education, and advancing firefighter safety. They discuss the Firefighter Mayday Survey’s critical role, na...
Jul 11, 2025•57 min•Ep. 2102
The Training Officer: Leadership, Legacy, and Mental Health with Danny Arroyo In this episode of The Training Officer, Danny Arroyo of Perth Amboy, NJ, shares candid insights from his 23-year career in the fire service. As a battalion chief and training officer, Arroyo discusses the critical balance of leading training divisions, managing seasonal operational demands, and fostering a culture of safety and transparency. He debunks common misconceptions about the training officer role, emphasizing...
Jul 11, 2025•1 hr 36 min•Ep. 2101
The Larry Conley Show: Healthy Minds On this episode of The Larry Conley Show, host Larry Conley sits down with Kelsey Perkins, MSW, LCSW. Perkins is a trauma therapist who works with first responders. They discuss PTSD, EMDR therapy, the Healthy Minds Initiative, and why asking for help is a sign of leadership—not weakness. Conley gets real about his own story. His losses. His struggles. And how he is still learning to navigate it all. If you're a firefighter, police officer, EMS dispatcher—or ...
Jul 07, 2025•54 min•Ep. 2100
Fire Service Data and Tech Talk: Artificial Intelligence In this episode of Fire Service Data and Tech Talk, Eddie Buchanan sits down with Holly Buchenroth and Jeff Butcher to explore the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on fire service training and operations. Drawing from their extensive experience in emergency medical education and firefighting, they break down AI’s role—from generative tools like ChatGPT and Magic School enhancing paramedic simulations to advanced data integr...
Jul 05, 2025•1 hr•Ep. 2099
BuildingsonFire: Row House Challenges, Construction, and Operations Part 3 In this episode of the BuildingsonFire podcast, host Christopher Naum dives into the complexities of rowhouse construction and its direct impact on firefighter safety and fireground operations. Drawing from recent line-of-duty death investigations in Baltimore and Philadelphia, Naum highlights how predictable building features and subtle variations like the presence of Formstone facades can drastically influence fire beha...
Jun 27, 2025•1 hr 35 min•Ep. 2098
Women in Fire: Peer Support, Therapy, and Mental Health Awareness in the Fire Service In this episode of the Women in Fire podcast, host Lisa Baker explores mental health challenges faced by firefighters and first responders. Baker welcomes guest Taylor Montey, a lieutenant with Poudre Fire Authority, in Fort Collins, Colorado, and Julie Nelson, a firefighter-paramedic with South Metro (CO) Fire Rescue on to discuss the importance of early education on mental health within fire academies and the...
Jun 24, 2025•1 hr 3 min•Ep. 2097
Talkin' Tactics: Mentorship, Mindset, and Stigma in the Fire Service In this episode of Talking Tactics, hosts David Polikoff and Sam Villani and welcome guest Bryan Riley to explore the realities of stepping into leadership roles in high-pressure, busy fire companies. Riley shares his journey from volunteer to seasoned company officer and battalion chief, highlighting the challenges of adapting quickly to unfamiliar environments. The conversation explores the critical role of mentorship in prep...
Jun 23, 2025•1 hr•Ep. 2096
Hooks and Hoses: The Nontraditional Truck Company In this episode of Hooks & Hoses, host Eric Dreiman talks with guests Jim Silvernail and Arthur Ashley about their new release from Fire Engineering Books, The Nontraditional Truck Company. Challenging conventional engine-based firefighting, the authors explore how truck company operations—search, ventilation, forcible entry, and overhaul—are essential regardless of apparatus. They also stress that it’s not about the vehicle, but the mindset ...
Jun 22, 2025•1 hr 9 min•Ep. 2095
Generation Engine: Lessons from Conferences and Instructor Insights In this episode of Generation Engine, hosts Anthony Rowett and Todd Edwards talk with guest Sean Duffy about the rapidly growing world of firefighter training conferences. They cover their grassroots efforts to bring impactful, hands-on education to local and national fire communities. The conversation tackles the importance of genuine instruction based on real experience, vetting new training companies, and the passion required...
Jun 21, 2025•1 hr 8 min•Ep. 2094
Tailboard Talk: Confronting MMIR and Human Trafficking in the Fire Service In this episode of Tailboard Talk, fire service leaders tackle the urgent crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives (MMIR) alongside the complex realities of human trafficking. Monte Frank, a firefighter and emergency manager, shares the deeply personal story of his daughter’s tragic fate, underscoring the epidemic’s devastating reach. Joined by Jacob Dickman of the Chicago Fire Department, they highlight ground...
Jun 20, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 2092
The Command Post: Tools, Tradition, and the Firefighter's Mindset In this episode of The Command Post, Hosts Rick Lasky and John Salka take a meaningful look at the essential tools of firefighting, their care, and the knowledge behind them. From the iconic halligan’s origins in the FDNY to evolving equipment like hydraulic “rabbit” tools, they discuss how tradition meets innovation in emergency response. The hosts also emphasize leadership’s role in maintaining gear, sharing candid stories about...
Jun 19, 2025•57 min•Ep. 2093
The Professional Volunteer Fire Department: Turning a Volunteer Fire Department Around In this episode of the Professional Volunteer Fire Department, host Tom Merrill welcomes Chief John Buchan of the Florissant (CO) Fire Protection District. Buchan shares how he turned a struggling volunteer fire department around in just one year—doubling membership while restoring community trust and morale. Facing low numbers, fractured leadership, and financial mismanagement, Buchan focused on realigning th...
Jun 17, 2025•1 hr 12 min•Ep. 2091
In this episode of The Backstep Boys, Ron Kanterman, Tom Aurnhammer, and fire protection expert Jack Murphy explore the critical role fire codes and standards play in firefighter safety and building resilience. From the origins of the International Fire Code to the political challenges of code updates, they unpack why these regulations matter beyond just paperwork. Murphy emphasizes how knowledge of building construction, apparatus access, and emergency planning can save lives during an incident...
Jun 16, 2025•1 hr 17 min•Ep. 2090
Fireground Strategies: Insights on Division Supervision, Training, and Fire Dynamics In this episode of Fireground Strategies episode, Battalion Chief Patrick Wirkus, of the Elizabeth (NJ) Fire Department, shares practical strategies for improving fireground command through effective division supervision. Drawing on 13 years of frontline experience and his family’s firefighting legacy, Wirkus discusses how decentralizing command at larger incidents enhances communication, reduces span of control...
Jun 14, 2025•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 2089
Perspectives on Leadership: Leadership, Trust, and the Power of “Why” In this episode of Perspectives on Leadership, host Stephen Shaw sits down with leadership expert Frank Viscuso to explore the foundations of teamwork within the fire service. Drawing on decades of experience, they discuss how a shared sense of purpose, clear standards, and authentic communication create the winning teams that firefighters rely on. They discuss why motivation ebbs and flows with life’s seasons and why leaders ...
Jun 13, 2025•1 hr 14 min•Ep. 2088
Fire Service Court: Religious Rights, OSHA Rules, and Operational Realities This episode of Fire Service Court covers several topics that may have your department talking. The conversation addresses the complex and often contentious issue of facial hair policies in fire departments. The discussion centers around a recent case involving a veteran firefighter whose religious beliefs require him to maintain a beard, conflicting with his city’s clean-shaven rule tied to SCBA safety standards. Expert...
Jun 12, 2025•40 min•Ep. 2087
Welcome to the June 2025 edition of Mayday Monday . This month we review a fire from St. Mary’s County, Maryland. On June 27, 2023, several departments were dispatched for a fire in a two-story, single-family dwelling. The chief of the first-due fire company was first to arrive on scene and found heavy fire conditions on the first and second floors of the house. He established command and completed a 360o survey of the building. He confirmed fire on the first and second floors and no obvious fir...
Jun 09, 2025•2 hr 8 min•Ep. 2086
The Path Forward with Tom Jenkins In this episode of Fire Service Data and Tech Talk, host Eddie Buchanan welcomes Tom Jenkins, senior advisor/research manager for UL Fire Safety Research Institute on the NERIS project. They discuss the transformation of fire service data collection and technology through the National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS). Jenkins shares his experience leading this groundbreaking project, explaining why accurate, timely data is a game changer for firefig...
Jun 07, 2025•54 min•Ep. 2085
Main Street Firefighting: Lessons from a Complex Main Street Fire In this episode of Main Street Firefighting, get an inside look at a challenging downtown fire involving legacy brick buildings with cockloft involvement—fueled by heavy winds and complicated by unique building features like spiral staircases and metal roofing. The department’s rapid third-alarm call, strategic placement of crews at front and rear, and innovative use of a drone with thermal imaging helped identify hidden fire spot...
Jun 05, 2025•58 min•Ep. 2084
In this episode of Fire and Training, host Doug Cline breaks down the core elements needed to build and sustain high-performance teams. Leadership here isn’t about titles or rank—it’s about clear purpose, strong communication, and unwavering accountability. Cline highlights seven key characteristics, from fostering open dialogue to cultivating trust and encouraging continuous improvement. Drawing analogies from football, Cline shows how each member’s role and collaboration shape team success. Th...
Jun 03, 2025•19 min•Ep. 2083
Leadership, Legacy, and Lifelong Service in the Fire Service In this episode of the Larry Conley Show, host Larry Conley welcomes recently retired Arlington County (VA) Deputy Chief Tiffanye Wesley. They discuss the challenges and triumphs of a firefighting career and life beyond the fireground. Reflecting on decades of breaking barriers, mentorship, and community building, Wesley shares her journey of leadership grounded in courage, integrity, and empathy. The conversation touches on the vital ...
Jun 02, 2025•1 hr 26 min•Ep. 2082
The Mikey G and Mikey D Show: Firefighter Operations in High-Rise and Big-Box Structures Hosts Mike Dugan and Mike Gagliano talk with a panel of fire service experts about the Firefighter Air Coalition supplement in Fire Engineering, and their respective articles that cover the complexities of firefighting operations concerning high-rise buildings and rapidly emerging big-box structures. Featuring insights from seasoned firefighters, including Jimmy Davis, Tom Merrill, and Daniel DeYear, the dis...
May 30, 2025•1 hr 23 min•Ep. 2081
First Due Battalion Chief: Building Hazards and Response Strategies Seasoned firefighters Danny Sheridan and Erik Pettaway discuss the challenges presented by void spaces in residential and commercial buildings. Drawing insights from Frank Brannigan's seminal work, Brannigan’s Building Construction for the Fire Service, the hosts highlight critical concepts such as the rapid spread of fire in concealed spaces and the potential hazards posed by renovated structures. They share firsthand experienc...
May 29, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 2080
Women in Fire: Mental Health in the Fire Service In this episode of the Women in Fire radio show, hosted by Lisa Baker, leading voices from the fire service engage in a critical discussion on mental health, coinciding with National Mental Health Awareness Month (May). The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing mental health challenges faced by firefighters, exploring the stigma associated with vulnerability, and advocating for a culture of openness and support. Featuring insights ...
May 27, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 2079
Talkin’ Tactics: Mastering Engine Company Operations In this episode of Talkin’ Tactics, hosts David Polikoff, Robert "RJ" James, and Sam Villani discuss the essential components of engine company operations. Drawing from their extensive experiences in the fire service, they discuss the critical importance of promptly putting water on the fire and the need for effective communication and coordination within a crew. The conversation spans various topics, including the role of the engine company i...
May 26, 2025•1 hr 12 min•Ep. 2076
Tactical Impact: The Essential Role of Air Replenishment Systems In the latest episode of Fire Engineering's Tactical Impact, host Jim Silvernail and Jason Hoevelmann welcome guests Mike Gagliano and Kris Blume to explore the transformative role of firefighter air replenishment systems (FARS) in modern firefighting. As fire departments face increasing operational challenges, particularly in complex multistory and large-scale structures, the accessibility of high-quality air supply for effective ...
May 24, 2025•1 hr 14 min•Ep. 2078
Hooks & Hoses: Mastering Fireground Size-Ups In this episode of Hooks & Hoses, expert fire service professionals explore the fundamental strategies for conducting effective size-ups during emergency responses. Building on experiences from the recent FDIC International, the discussion focuses on best practices for initial and ongoing fireground communications. You’ll learn about practical acronyms like BELOW, which help firefighters assess building types, fire location, life safety factor...
May 23, 2025•32 min•Ep. 2077
BuildingsonFire: Row House Challenges, Part 2 In this episode, host Christopher Naum discusses how intricate dynamics of firefighting within row house structures are explored. He covers several lethal incidents from 2014 to 2023, which resulted in 11 line-of-duty firefighter deaths, emphasizing the unique challenges posed by these common yet complex building types. Naum presents a thorough analysis of building characteristics, risk management, operational tactics, and human performance, detailin...
May 22, 2025•1 hr 13 min•Ep. 2075
The Professional Volunteer Fire Department: The Younger Generation of Firefighters Often labeled “the problem” with today’s volunteer fire service, the young people joining the ranks today are different from generations past. But that is true of every generation, and these young men and women are NOT the problem. Yes, there are some problems and serious challenges in the volunteer fire service. But why are so many so quick to judge and dismiss, chastise and throw under the bus the younger genera...
May 20, 2025•1 hr 16 min•Ep. 2074
