Send us a text In this episode of the Prepared to Fight Fire podcast, Nic Pluskota & I discuss their experiences in the fire service, focusing on the importance of training programs like Georgia Flames. They explore the mental and physical challenges faced during training, the significance of mindset and effort, and the role of mentorship in overcoming complacency. The conversation also touches on the impact of social media on the fire service and the necessity of continuous improvement thro...
Jun 30, 2025•41 min
Send us a text In this episode of the Prepare to Fire podcast, Stephanie White and i discuss the complexities of mental health within the fire service, the importance of mentorship, and the evolving culture of firefighting. They explore the challenges of leadership, the impact of social media, and the necessity of creating a supportive environment for all firefighters. The conversation emphasizes personal growth, the balance between old and new school values, and the significance of sharing expe...
Jun 19, 2025•48 min
Send us a text In this episode of the Prepared to Fight Fire podcast, Tony Gillan and i discuss the warrior mindset, the journey of recovery from a severe injury, and the importance of leadership in the fire service. We explore how mentorship and a positive mindset can inspire others, even in the face of adversity. The conversation emphasizes the need for accountability and empowerment in leadership roles, highlighting the significance of believing in oneself and others to foster growth and resi...
Jun 07, 2025•29 min
Send us a text In this episode of the Prepare to Fire podcast, host Julian Serrano speaks with firefighter Samuel Jacobs about the power of a growth mindset and the impact of coaching in the fire service. They discuss the challenges of training, the importance of humility and resilience, and how failure often fuels the most meaningful growth. The conversation highlights how authentic leadership, mental toughness, and mentorship shape not just better firefighters, but better people. Physical fitn...
May 23, 2025•35 min•Season 1Ep. 49
Send us a text In this episode, Julian Serrano shares his personal journey of growth and challenges faced while preparing for two intense firefighting programs: One Bad Tour and Georgia Flames. He emphasizes the importance of accountability, mental toughness, and the need for proper preparation and nutrition. Throughout the conversation, Julian reflects on overcoming self-doubt, the significance of community support, and the key takeaways from his experiences that can help others in their firefi...
May 18, 2025•23 min•Season 1Ep. 47
Send us a text In this episode of the Prepared to Fire podcast, Julian Serrano discusses the importance of fitness for firefighters, outlining the unique challenges they face and how to build a solid foundation of fitness. He emphasizes the need for stamina, strength, and endurance, and provides practical advice on training and maintaining fitness throughout a firefighter's career. The conversation also touches on the importance of continuous improvement and the mindset required to succeed in th...
Mar 12, 2025•20 min
Send us a text Brendan has been a paramedic since 2016 and a firefighter since 2018. As an entrepreneur with multiple businesses, he founded Black Smoke in 2020 during the pandemic, aiming to boost morale in a struggling department. What started as a passion project has grown into a movement, continuing to make an impact five years later.
Feb 03, 2025•42 min
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Dec 26, 2024•8 min
Send us a text On today’s episode, we’re joined by Rudy Becerra. Born and raised in El Paso, Texas, Rudy is a black belt in Jiu Jitsu and brings 17 years of experience as a firefighter. His mission is to inspire and guide young firefighters to excel and strive for constant improvement in their craft, with the hope that they too develop a deep passion for the job, just as he has.
Nov 15, 2024•28 min•Season 1Ep. 44
Send us a text In this episode of the Prepare to Fire podcast, I explore the complex nature of ego, discussing its dual role in driving competition and personal growth while also acknowledging its potential negative effects. I try to emphasize the importance of harnessing ego with humility, the balance between winning and losing, and the resilience required to move forward after setbacks. I truly encourage listeners to let ego motivate them but to remain accountable for their actions and learn f...
Nov 10, 2024•15 min•Season 1Ep. 43
Send us a text Zac James – Firefighter & Advocate for Strength Through Adversity Zac James, a firefighter with nearly four years of experience. After exploring different paths, he found his true calling in the fire service, thanks to a nudge from my uncle. His journey is rooted in a passion for building strength—physically, mentally, and spiritually—and leading by example. He believes the world needs strong men who embrace challenges and find purpose in hardship. Through struggle, we cultiva...
Oct 27, 2024•36 min
Send us a text Arrogance involves an exaggerated sense of self-importance and looking down on others, while humility reflects modesty, self-awareness, and respect for others. Arrogant people focus on personal superiority, whereas humble individuals recognize their strengths but remain open to learning and growth.
Oct 18, 2024•12 min
Send us a text In this conversation we discuss the importance of setting ambitious goals, overcoming fear of failure, and embracing the process of growth and learning. We also talk about the significance of consistency and enjoying the journey rather than focusing solely on the end result. John shares his experiences in the fire service and how he encourages his colleagues to prioritize health and fitness. The conversation emphasizes the importance of structure, fun, and humility in the pursuit ...
Jul 23, 2024•28 min
Send us a text In this podcast episode, Julian Serrano discusses his failures and the lessons he has learned from them. He emphasizes the importance of preparation and the need to be the best that you can be in the field of firefighting. Julian shares his personal experiences of failure, including failing out of fire school and struggling with studying for certifications. Takeaways Failure is the greatest teacher and provides valuable lessons that success cannot. Preparation is crucial in the fi...
Jul 16, 2024•22 min
Send us a text Mickey Farrell is a Lieutenant in the New York City Fire Department, a third-generation firefighter with 29 years of experience, the last 23 years being with the FDNY. Also a team instructor at the New York City Fire Academy, founder and author of Top Floor Tactics, and host of A View From the Top Floor Podcast.
Jun 14, 2024•31 min
Send us a text On this episode we dive into my origin story. We review some failures, setback, obstacles, mistakes, and achievements throughout my life so far.
Jun 07, 2024•21 min
Send us a text Reilly Kilbride has been riding as a fireman for the last three years. He has been lucky enough to be around great firefighters and leadership throughout his career so far. His mission in life is to work hard and serve others. Training hard is the way he sharpens his mental health & serving others is how he sharpens his heart.
Jun 01, 2024•41 min
Send us a text Erik Vidal comes back to the show. We dive deep into Eriks time in the military, expeirence at Georgia Smoke Divers, and leading the way in his own life with self development. Follow Erik @iamerikvidal
Jun 01, 2024•43 min
Send us a text Alex was Born and raised in Los Angeles. Spent 6 years in the army as a member of the 75th ranger regiment. He then went on to serve for 3 years as a military contractor. Alex currently Lives in Savannah, Georgia and is currently working for the Pooler Georgia Fire Department. He Currently works as a driver on the straight stick truck.
Feb 20, 2024•43 min•Season 1Ep. 34
Send us a text Andy Glaze is a Father, Husband, Firefighter, Runner. He is currently married with 3 kids. He is currently a fire captain for the La Verne Fire Department in Los Angeles County, California. He is the president of the local 3624. He has run over 100 miles every week for 202 weeks in a row. He embodies what it means to go all in and runs a lot of ultramarathons all over the world, from China to Europe....
Feb 02, 2024•45 min•Season 1Ep. 32
Send us a text Michael D.N. Laughlin is a full- time career firefighter with Kingston Fire & Rescue. What makes his story unique, is that twice, Mike returned to his beloved job, after serious accidents that could have taken his life. At ages 26, and 35, he suffered major injuries, first to his left leg and arm. His leg functions because of permanent metal plates, pins and screws and is marked with skin graft scars. In an even more catastrophic second accident, when a deer ran out in front o...
Feb 02, 2024•41 min•Season 1Ep. 33
Send us a text Anthony Rowett, Jr. is a Captain with the Mobile (AL) Fire Rescue Department. He has been in the fire service for 18 years. He spent his first 3 years in the fire service as a firefighter with the Ogdensburg (NJ) Volunteer Fire Department before being hired by the Mobile Fire Rescue Department, where he has worked for the past 15 years. He has multiple degrees in both fire science and emergency services management. He is a graduate of the Alabama Smoke Diver course. He is the owne...
Jan 27, 2024•44 min
Send us a text Mike was one of the pioneers of the South Florida CrossFit movement, when he opened up I Am CrossFit in 2008. He and his then partner, opened six total locations over the next eight years. He is the founder and organizer of the Crush Games, a nationally known fitness competition. In 2011, Mike also launched Formulx supplements which is known for its all-natural, grass-fed whey protein. Mike is also enjoying an 18 year career with Palm Beach County Fire Rescue as a Driver Engineer....
Jan 16, 2024•48 min•Season 1Ep. 30
Send us a text Matt Chan is 13yr professional firefighter from Denver, Colorado with an extensive fitness background. He’s also known for six appearances in the CrossFit Games with four top 10 placements and one 2nd place podium finish. He was also featured on Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s show “The Titan Games” where Matt won season 2. Matt continues to pour his passion for fitness into the fire service presenting at fire conferences, writing academy programs for fire departments, as well as bein...
Jan 11, 2024•44 min•Season 1Ep. 29
Send us a text Caleb Smith is an 8 year Firefighter in East TN, currently serving as an Engineer on a Quint and one of the founding members of Black Flag Fire Training.
Dec 30, 2023•41 min•Season 1Ep. 27
Send us a text Tyler Evans has 8 years in the fire service career and volunteer. He is Currently an Engine Co Captain. Tyler is the Creator of The Citizens Fireman where he shares training tips and networks with likeminded firefighters who are there to place those that they serve above themselves.
Dec 18, 2023•26 min•Season 1Ep. 27
Send us a text Dylan is currently a full-time career Firefighter/EMT for the city of New Smyrna Beach, FL. and an Army veteran. He served in 1st Ranger Battalion as an infantryman and am Principal and Co-Founder at Brigands Co. As an entrepreneur and first responder, he has used his past experience in military leadership roles, transition into college programs, and securing positions in the civilian sector to help other veterans choose career paths. While working in e-commerce, he has set out to...
Dec 05, 2023•38 min•Season 1Ep. 26
Send us a text Keith Schmidt is a 51 years of age Husband and Father, Veteran of the U.S Navy. Firefighter-Paramedic 35 years fire service experience, has served at the Indianapolis Airport Fire Department for the past 22 years. His mission to impact change for people Emotionally, Mentally, Physically. Find and connect with Keith at the following: Tik Tok @keith.officalschmidt2020 Instagram keith.schmidt2020...
Nov 13, 2023•42 min•Season 1Ep. 25
Send us a text Gregg Dixon is a retired Special Operations Captain for Palm Beach County Fire Rescue. 37 total years in the fire service starting out as a volunteer, worked in the private sector at a Nuclear Power Station for 10 years as a firefighter/EMT. Started with Palm Beach County in 1996 as a Firefighter/EMT, then Firefighter/Paramedic, promoted as one of the first Rescue Lieutenant’s, then Lieutenant, finished out as A Speciality Captain. Spent 26 of his 27 years with the County in Speci...
Nov 08, 2023•37 min•Season 1Ep. 24
Send us a text Lieutenant Jose Santos has worked for Palm Beach County Fire Rescue for 22 years. He was once a Firefighter Combat Challenge competitor for 5 years. During that time, he learned from his training how to assist young men and women with the physical preparation for C.P.A.T. and P.A.T. testing. He also trains future candidates, both physically and mentally, for the stressors of the fire academy and department recruit academies. Lt. Santos believes physical readiness and fire grounds ...
Nov 02, 2023•45 min
