Tonight Rob along side Pip from The Size Up sit down and talk with Captain Dallas Cooper from the Houston Fire Department. We talk about the path Dallas walked on becoming a firefighter, finding his dream job, and the pride he takes in his job and personal life. This podcast is out of this world and sheds light on the duality of being not only a good fireman but also being true to who you are at your core and overcoming obstacles along the way.

Thanks for listening!

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Episode 82: Captain Dallas Cooper

Rob sit's down with Andy Soccodato for his Gospel on The Water Thieves and moving big water!

Sunday Gospel with Andy Soccodato from the Water Thieves

An iconic brand in fire apparatus, Pierce Mfg. has been a staple in the American Fire Service since 1913.  Delivering this American brand to the fire service is the job of national distributors who manage the process from start to finish for their clients.  Chris Carrero, a firefighter and Support Sales Manager for Siddons-Martin Emergency Group, began his apparatus career with Pierce Mfg. and quickly found opportunity with one of the largest Pierce distributors in the country.  His love for the fire service is strong which fuels his passion for fire apparatus.  His intimate knowledge of apparatus design and build processes allows him to be a specialist within Siddons-Martin Emergency Group.  Chris supports the sales staff with the latest technology information, design features and growing trends within the fire service and apparatus design.  Having Chris on your build ensures that the customers' fire apparatus specifications, design and build are everything they need and want.  If you need information or a guy with a finger on the pulse of fire apparatus specifications and design, Chris Carrero is your guy!! 
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Fore more information, you can reach Chris Carrero at ccarrero@siddons-martin.com or check out the SMEG website at www.siddons-martin.com

140.  Building a Better Product - Chris Carrero

Quite often urban strategies and tactics dominate the landscape when talking shop.  However, many in the fire service provide suburban and rural fire protection which might differ in our thoughts and actions.  But both scenarios require the same thing, water.  Water supply is imperative when talking a culture of extinguishment.  Andy Soccodato, the creator of The Water Thieves talks water and lots of it during his daily delivery of information to firefighters across the country.  Establishing a rural water supply which meets or exceeds the necessary fire flows requires planning, training and execution.  This episode dives into the ever present issues WE ALL face in our communities.  Suburban and rural sprawl, large developments with plenty of square footage and the lack of a domestic water system - everyday issues happening across the country.  Andy hits on many points that need consideration and unpacks the conversation about a reliable and dependable water supply.  
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Continue the conversation with Andy by checking out The Water Thieves at www.thewaterthieves.com or find them on social media.

149.  SEND IT...  The Water Supply Episode - Andy Soccodato

A loyal family man and the life of the party, Rich Stack is just one of those guys who you enjoy being around.  His funny antics and sparkling eyes makes him stand out amongst the crowd.  His passion for the job and his confidence in himself and his people make Rich a great Boss.  Currently assigned as a covering Lieutenant, Rich is on his 22nd year with the Chicago Fire Department.  His early days of volunteering with his father set Rich up for wanting to become a career firefighter.  After many attempts, his dream became reality and he hasn't looked back.  Working in busy companies, Rich gained plenty of experience and knowledge.  Teaching for the Illinois Fire Service Institute (IFSI), On-Scene Training Solutions, Affordable Drill Towers and a few other organizations, Rich knows training matters.  But even the best can get jammed up in a fire.  Rich discusses a close call he had on January 6, 2014 in which he found himself in a precarious position.  Rich was able to walk away but it left him struggling with his "experience" that day.  Working in the busiest company, teaching, walking tall with experience and yet he got jammed up.  "It wasn't supposed to happen."  Rich discusses the situation and the aftermath of how he dealt with it.  The job is full of ups and downs and sometimes we find ourselves smack dab in the middle of it.  Rich Stack is friend, Brother and someone I admire.  His willingness to share and reflect on his career will certainly help many other firefighters who might struggle with similar situations.  Rich makes this job better.

173.  Close Call in Chicago - Rich Stack

Ego can be a funny thing... For Lt. Chris Overpeck, it was a pivotal point in his career in which he had to come to some hard realizations.  With close to 30 years in the fire service, the Chris Overpeck of today is quite different than the younger Chris Overpeck.  His early days of kicking ass and working with companies of hard chargers, his days in Gary, IN proved to be career highlight days even with only a few years on the job.  Gary, IN offered plenty of opportunity to work and to build your "resume" in regards to fire duty.  However, life outside the firehouse is just as important and finding the balance is critical.  When you're 100 MPH on the job and kicking ass, dialing it back and navigating the rest of the world can be a real challenge.  Over time, Chris ended up in Terra Haute, IN, another tough town that offers plenty of work to go around.  However, managing his early days in Terra Haute were tough, largely in part because he already had it all figured out...  Life is funny and over time, experience evens out with maturity.  This open conversation with Chris discusses alot of his hard times and how he navigated life inside and outside of the firehouse.  Chris Overpeck today is a caring, thoughtful, nurturing Brother who appreciates everything he has and the friendships he has made.  His tone today is warm and welcoming and his passion for the job is top shelf, but more importantly, his support of those around him, is what makes Chris a standout today!!

225.  Ego Driven Lessons - Chris Overpeck

Where were you when the world changed forever?  Jeremy talks with a few friends about where they were and their personal story about September 11, 2001.

276.  September 11, 2001 - Where Were You?

Close to 37 years on the front lines in Boston, MA, Emmett "Pat" Nichols looks back on his career with a big smile.  Even though he knew it was time to retire, his passion and love for the job is as strong today as it was all those years ago.  Retiring as a District Chief, Pat worked is some of the busiest companies across the city.  Always wanting to go to work, he found himself in Ladder 26, Truck 10 and Rescue 2 for most of his career.  These companies didn't disappoint.  Learning the technical rescue work along the way, Pat became a member of the Massachusetts Task Force 1, the USAR Team.  This training led him to begin teaching and he eventually became involved with PL Vulcan Fire Training.  Even after retirement, he is busier than ever with his family and the fire service as a whole.  Traveling and teaching are now his focus and his experience and knowledge of the job certainly needs to be shared with firefighters everywhere.

294.  "Manage Things, Lead People" - Emmet "Pat" Nichols

Mike Greco, a lifelong student of the fire service, is a career firefighter with the Hackensack, NJ Fire Department and a volunteer Fire Chief with the Hasbrouck Heights Fire Department.  Growing up going to fires with his father set the tone for his unapologetic love of the job.  He is fiercely loyal to his people and the job, and it comes through his way in which he talks about the job.  He is a true believer in letting his people work.  Creating an environment that lets firemen be firemen will set the tempo on the fireground.  This fun episode is a must listen!!

312.  "Let Them be Firemen" - Mike Greco

Jeremy talks with Jon Johnson about the upcoming Come and Take It Fire Conference being held on Grapevine, TX April 5-7, 2024. A solid line up of instructors and events taking place. Enrollment is open and so sign up today!   Link below⬇️⬇️
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https://www.firenuggets.com/event/come-and-take-it-fire-conference/

313. Come and Take It Fire Conference

In this conversation, Mickey Farrell discusses the importance of victim removal versus sustained advantage in high-pressure rescue operations. He emphasizes the need for common sense and split-second decision-making in real-life fire conditions. Farrell explores the concept of area of refuge as a transitional means of victim removal, rather than immediately bringing the victim back to the fire area. He also delves into the role of flow path in dictating the fire and manipulating energy within the fire building. Additionally, Farrell highlights the relationship between conditions and timing in rescue operations and the significance of water on the fire. The main takeaway is the importance of adaptable approaches to victim removal.

Top Floor Tactics Episode 9 - Victim Removal vs Sustained Advantage

A Pennsylvania transplant to Florida, John Simpson, known better as "Bart" to his friends has had an incredible career in the fire service.  With over 40 years in the job, his passion and commitment to the craft remains at a constant high.  His early roots formed a passion for training and betterment of the job.  Retied from the job, he continues to teach with On-Scene Training Associates across the world.  Bart is also a founding members of the FOOLS International which in its' early days was a bunch of like minded Brothers learning from one another while sharing stories and their experiences.  This today has become an institution in the American Fire Service, an organization proud to promote the core mission of what the fire service is all about.  Bart's love for the job is unwavering and his long career has left a lasting impression on so many.

325.  "Deeds, Not Words" - John "Bart" Simpson

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.

327. "Fight or Flight" - TJ Prieur

The Size Up Episode 67. FDIC

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!!!

The Size Up Episode 68 - Mike Torres -  Words Matter

Growing up in his Providence, RI neighborhood, Dan Rinaldi chased the fire trucks through the streets and realized this was the path he was going to go down.  Filling in an application at 17 years old, he was soon hired and realized this job was truly for him.  Fast forward 36 years later, Dan is now one of the most senior men on the job, assigned to Special Hazards Co. 1.  As the Senior Man in the "rescue", Dan's career spans decades and the fire duty during his tenure is hard to count.  Throughout such a colorful career, there will always be some close calls, but on the morning of January 6, 2018, Dan found himself trapped under a collapsed third floor and roof, pinning him to the kitchen floor below.  "I'm on fire" and his leg was crushed by the falling debris, he remained trapped for 32-1/2 minutes until other Providence companies could remove him from the building.  His story is powerful and his lust for the job is undeniable.  Suffering from injuries he sustained at the fire, he found his way back to active duty a few months later.  His story reinforces what we all know; even when everything is going right, this job can still kill you.  His passion for the job remains steadfast and his experiences are shared at the training academy and conferences across the country.  He continues to educate those coming up the ranks and enjoys his place in the Providence Fire Department.  Time will tell when Dan Rinaldi decides to retire, but right now, he continues to ride and is enjoying every moment of it.  
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**Note - volume issue during the first two minutes**

343.  MAYDAY on Bowdoin Street - Dan Rinaldi

"Bless your heart" is a southern way of saying so many things in one quick phrase.  Joey Petruccelli, a transplant from NJ to Richmond,VA, loves being an inner city fireman.  His NJ charm sometimes gets in the way of his drive and hustle but he doesnt apologize for who he is.  Like the southerns, "bless your heart" is a kinder, gentler way than the rough and tough jersey.  Joey knows this and it's his style of southern charm.  A true love of the job and a student who takes any opportunity to learn, he holds the job in the highest regard an fiercely protects the core principles of the fire service.  "Crawl, walk, run" is Joey's belief when it comes to training.  Working with new recruits, he knows the value of teaching the right way - no short cuts and hard work and dedication.  Joey approach is in your face and real - he acknowledges this and will not shy away from telling you the way it is which is kind of refreshing these days.  This blue collar, dirty and tough job needs to be protected by those that are all in.  Joey Petruccelli is all in.

349. "Bless Your Heart" - Joey Petruccelli

From the private sector to the public sector, Ryan McCormick knew that he wanted to serve.  Growing up in a Pastor’s home, service was at the forefront of his upbringing.  From early on, Ryan wandered over to the local firehouse to help with Christmas tree sales or wash the trucks.  This introduction to the fire service led him down a path of wanting to serve as he grew older.  Working as a private sector engineer, he knew riding a desk wasn’t for him.  From there, a stint as a police officer and finally finding his way into the career fire service.  Many years later Ryan finds himself as the Chief of Department of a small career department.  He believes in empowering your people, working for the people and hasn’t lost sight of what  the mission truly is.  A great conversation about “them” along with his willingness to letting his people be little bit different…. It’s all done with the intent to shine.  Don’t let Ryan McCormick’s soft, gentle demeanor let you believe he is a push over; he is not!!  He is loyal to his people and the public and is unapologetic for his passion and love of the job.  This passion has pushed him to create the First In Fire Conference, held this year from September 11-14, 0224 in Little Rock, Arkansas.  A four day conference filled with big names and even bigger passion.  When you’re striving for excellence, there is no rest and Ryan certainly not resting anytime soon.

355.  Not Afraid to be Different - Ryan McCormick

Technician Eric Budd is all in, period.  With 22 years in the fire service, the last 10 with Washington DC, Eric worked hard to find his way to the position he is in today.  Attaining the rank of Technician in Rescue 3 is no easy feat.  Countless hours of studying, training and learning the job consumed Eric for over a year.  The process taught many lessons, much more than the actual skill and knowledge of the job.  Motivation and discipline fueled the process.  His commitment to excellence and following through on achieving this prestigious position follows suit with the culture of his company.  The company fuels the pride and pushes each member to be their best.  The road has been long, but the payoff is everything.  Adopting the idea of "Failing Forward", Eric applies this to his everyday. As he travels the country lecturing about his story, he shares insights and stories from a busy urban department.  He captures alot of the work in videos that highlight the daily work of DC firefighters.  Promoting the good of the job comes through in everything he does.  Being able to share his love of the job through teaching with Traditions Training has allowed for him to reach others who are looking for more.  Constantly challenging himself, Eric Budd has only begun on his long road to promoting the very best the job has to offer.

361. "Unconscious Competence" - Eric Budd

Raised to appreciate public service and an unwavering commitment to his community, Anthony Gaul only knows how to care for others.  With over 34 years in the fire service, he is a life long resident and long time Fire Chief in Sergeant Bluff, Iowa.  His children followed suit as well, appreciating the dedication and passion Anthony has for his community and department.  Riding down the center of town, Anthony waves to the residents, knowing many by name and their families lineage in town.  The idea that the firehouse is the center of the community holds true in Sergeant Bluff.  Being Fire Chief is certainly an honor for Anthony, but this is only one side of his commitment to giving back.  He also works as a high school teacher with the Sioux City Career Academy in Sioux City, Iowa.  He runs the fire science program and he has built this curriculum into a top shelf program for the kids who are lucky enough to partake.  His love for teaching and sharing his fire service passion with the students fuels his excitement and love of the job.  He truly bridges the gap between young and old, crafting ways to educate and inspire his students to find an interest in the emergency services.  He can count numerous students who have gone onto fulfilling careers, volunteers or kids who have credited life saving actions based upon the skills learned in school.  Anthony is certainly making an impact and helping shape the future of the fire service.  His larger than life smile and demeanor is infectious and I believe he is just scratching the surface as to what he'll be able to achieve as time moves forward.  Not slowing down any time soon, Anthony continues to build his school program to offer the best he can to his growing student enrollment. 
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Anthony is looking to make connections with others who know of or partake in high school fire science programs.  There is currently no group or organization to bring these educators together and we are hoping to find these people who are shaping our future generations.  If you know of a programs or are involved with any, please email podcast@nationalfireradio.com so we can make the connection to Anthony Gaul.  Thank you.

365. "The + and - Screwdriver" - Anthony Gaul

This Bridging the Gap program was given at the Rockland County, NY Fire Academy on October 14, 2024.

375. Bridging the Gap, Rockland County, NY

Recognizing the need to hold himself accountable, Tyler Evans created The Citizens Firemen social media page.  He found himself becoming complacent, "Engineer's Syndrome" and he knew that he wanted more out of the fire service.  Selfishly, the creation of TCF is his way of staying focused and committed.  Tyler talks about becoming a product of your environment and how it takes a village to effect positive change within an organization. His social media page led to a podcast in which he has interviewed many big names across the American fire service.  Tyler's commitment remains steadfast while his passion is stronger than ever.  Taking the positive of the job, he and a bunch of his comrades are beginning to host training events in areas where many firefighters don't have the ability to attend external training. Tyler knows what it takes to make a positive impact and he pushes himself to continue the mission of The Citizens Firemen.

379. "Engineer's Syndrome" - Tyler Evans

Jeremy was a guest on the NJ Fire Guys Podcast episode 40.  Alot of hard hitting topics and conversations during this episode.

382.  Jeremy on the NJ Fire Guys Podcast

In this conversation, Deputy Chief Kevin Quinn discusses the challenges and opportunities within the volunteer fire service, emphasizing the importance of recruitment, retention, and training. He highlights the need for innovative approaches to attract new members and the significance of mentorship and community support in fostering a strong fire department culture. Deputy Chief Quinn also shares his personal journey in the fire service and the impact of the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) in advocating for volunteers. Also discussed is the vital role of the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) in supporting volunteer firefighters across the nation. They explore the structure of the NVFC, the importance of health and safety initiatives, and the need to engage younger generations in the fire service. The discussion emphasizes the significance of firefighter physicals, the challenges of recruitment and retention, and the necessity of sharing best practices among fire departments. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the importance of building a network to connect resources and support the volunteer fire service community.  The discussion concludes with a call to action for fire departments to adapt and evolve to meet the needs of today's volunteers.

384.  "A Change in the Model" - Kevin Quinn

In this episode, Jeremy speaks with Chris Koretski about the importance of community service, particularly in the fire service and veteran support. They discuss the Honor Flight program, which honors veterans by taking them to see their memorials, and the significance of maintaining connections with retired firefighters through honor guard programs. Chris shares his family's legacy of service and the values instilled in him from a young age, emphasizing the importance of giving back to the community and supporting fellow firefighters. Chris works hard for the funeral service planning for fallen first responders, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and community support. He shares insights into the role of the public safety funeral team, the significance of memorial events, and the emotional impact of honoring those who have served. The discussion also highlights the need for advocacy and prevention initiatives within the fire service, as well as the personal fulfillment that comes from serving others. Finding balance between his professional commitments and personal life, Chris does find some time for himself to unplug and enjoy his family.  Chris speaks about the challenges and triumphs faced by the fire service, particularly during a significant fire incident on Block Island. They explore themes of community support, mutual aid, leadership, and the importance of service in the fire department. Chris shares personal anecdotes about mentorship and the impact of giving back to the community, emphasizing that true leadership is about empowering others and creating a legacy of service.

394.  “A Gift you Have Been Given” - Chris Koretski

 In this episode, Mickey talks about hitting a rut in your career. This job’s like the ocean—the tide comes in, the tide goes out. Some days you’re riding high, other days you’re getting pulled under. The key is knowing it’s part of the cycle—and learning how to keep your feet under you when the water shifts.

Ch. 79  “The Rut”

In this heartfelt conversation, Jeremy Donch interviews his father, Tom Donch, reflecting on their family legacy in the fire service. They discuss the importance of camaraderie, generational values, and the work ethic instilled through family and community involvement. Tom shares stories from his early days in firefighting, the evolution of the service, and the significance of mentorship. The discussion also touches on the challenges facing volunteerism today and the need to maintain the integrity of firehouses for future generations.

400. "Legacy" - Tom Donch

In this powerful episode of Frontline Mindset, Rob sits down with Lieutenant Mark Bendel, recently retired from the Greenville Fire District, to reflect on a career of service, sacrifice, and resilience. Mark opens up about the tragic loss of his friend and fellow firefighter, Vito Sciavillo, and how that grief led to the creation of his children's book, Scout the Firehouse Mascot. Together, they explore the critical role of mental health in the fire service, the weight of leadership, and the evolving responsibilities firefighters face in their communities. From department transitions to mentoring the next generation, Mark's insights offer a heartfelt and inspiring look at what it means to truly support one another in the brotherhood.

Frontline Mindset Episode 40. Leadership, Loss, and Legacy – A Conversation with Lt. Mark Bender

In this engaging conversation, the hosts explore various themes including the nature of itching, personal journeys through education, the nostalgia associated with bicycles and childhood memories, and the joy found in sports like snowboarding and skiing. They delve into the experiences of firefighters, emphasizing the importance of camaraderie and passion in their work, and challenge listeners to rekindle their love for the fire service. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of mental health awareness within the fire service, emphasizing the need for open dialogue and support among colleagues. They explore the responsibility of current firefighters to improve the environment for future generations, the significance of mentorship, and the role of leadership in fostering a culture of conversation. The discussion highlights the healing power of sharing experiences and the necessity of accountability in mental health discussions, ultimately advocating for a supportive community that prioritizes well-being.

401. “ Bicycle Repair “ - The Shimek

Two Hands Two Tools — it’s more than a slogan. A phrase we’ve all lived at least once in our career. And while it’s burned into the culture, believe it or not, there’s an art and a discipline to putting one down. That’s what we get into on this podcast — the moments, the mindset, and the humility behind knowing when to adjust, adapt, and get the job done right.

Chapter 80. Two Hands Two Tools

In this episode of Frontline Mindset, Rob speaks with retired London Fire Brigade firefighter Steve Aslin, who shares his powerful journey through the fire service and his firsthand experience during the tragic Grenfell Tower fire. Steve offers a candid look into the emotional toll of that day, the lessons learned, and the ongoing pursuit of justice for the victims and their families.
He discusses the vital role of teamwork, the challenges of transitioning between departments, and the unique mindset required to operate fire appliances in London’s complex landscape. Beyond the fireground, Steve reflects on training the next generation and his personal mission to support the Grenfell community through an upcoming charity bike ride for youth programs.
This episode underscores the need for accountability, proactive fire safety measures, and robust mental health support for first responders—while reminding us all of the power of community and compassion in the face of tragedy.


Frontline Mindset  Episode 41.  Grenfell, Grit, and Giving Back – A Conversation with Steve Aslin

In this episode of the National Fire Radio Podcast, host Jeremy Donch speaks with Matt Kodicek about Ben's Blue Bags, a sensory bag initiative designed for children with autism. Matt shares his journey in the fire service and how his experiences as a father to a child on the spectrum inspired him to create these bags. The conversation emphasizes the importance of education for first responders in understanding autism and effectively using the sensory bags to aid in emergency situations. Matt discusses the contents of the bags and how they can help establish rapport with children on the spectrum, ultimately improving care and response during emergencies.

402. Ben's Blue Bags - Matt Kodicek

In this episode, Tim and Mickey dive deep into the heart of what keeps the fire service strong: standards, tradition, and legacy. They explore how the old-school values of the job shape today’s firehouse culture and the delicate balance between honoring the past while adapting to modern challenges.

The highlight of the episode is Tim’s detailed step-by-step breakdown of a challenging cellar fire his company faced. He recounts the critical decisions made under pressure, the tactics used to overcome the unique obstacles of a cellar fire and the lessons learned from the experience.

Re Run: Chapter 50. Tim Klett

Scott Thompson, Fire Chief of The Colony, TX Fire Department and author of The Functional Fire Company discusses the importance of strong leadership in the fire service, emphasizing the blue collar nature of firefighting and the need for a culture that prioritizes mentorship and training. He highlights the disconnect between administration and operations, the impact of personal agendas, and the critical balance between recruitment and retention. The discussion also touches on the significance of creating a positive work environment and the role of communication in fostering a successful fire department. 

No excuses and unapologetic, Scott Thompson is as real as it gets.  Find more information about Chief Thompson at -  www.fireserviceleadership.com

🔥 Thanks for tuning in to this episode of National Fire Radio!
We’re more than just a podcast — we’re a movement, connecting the American fire service through conversations about culture, leadership, tradition, and innovation.

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#NationalFireRadio #FireServiceCulture #TheSeniorMan #FirefighterPodcast #TraditionTrainingCulture

403. "It's Always the Cheap Seats" - Scott Thompson

In this powerful conversation, Rob sits down with firefighter/paramedic Megan Funk to tackle one of the fastest-growing challenges in emergency services—mental health calls. Megan shares her path into the fire service, the increasing frequency of psychiatric emergencies, and how her department is adapting through hands-on EMS training and a renewed focus on compassionate care. Together, they explore the real-world struggles of patients in crisis, the importance of de-escalation techniques, and how empathy, training, and advocacy can transform how first responders approach mental health. This episode is a call to action for every responder to lead with understanding—and to break the stigma, one call at a time.

Frontline Mindset Episode 42 – FF Megan Funk - Giving Grace on Mental Health

If Not You, Then Who? – A Conversation with Chief Shannon Stone

Description / Narrative:
In this episode of the National Fire Radio Podcast, I sit down with Chief Shannon Stone—a 35-year veteran of the fire service and a true example of what leadership looks like in today’s American firehouse. From firefighter to fire chief, Shannon has served in multiple departments across Florida, and his experience shows.

We talk about staying connected to the job—why he still goes to fires, still trains, and still surrounds himself with people who push him to grow. He breaks down the operational and cultural systems that have transformed the Midway Fire District, including a dynamic peer-reviewed promotional process, clearly defined performance standards, and a hiring philosophy that puts character before credentials.

Shannon drops gold throughout—on leadership, legacy, burnout, and building a firehouse culture that leaves no room for bottom dwellers. From the emotional impact of being a second-generation firefighter, to the responsibility of preparing the next generation, to building a regional alliance where multiple departments train and operate like one—this conversation covers it all.

Key Themes We Dive Into:

Leading from the front and staying operational as a chief

Building accountability-driven promotional processes

The importance of “feeding yourself” through teaching and training

Creating a winning culture in small- and mid-size departments

The influence of family legacy and mentorship in shaping a career

If you're in the fire service and care about culture, performance, and leadership—this episode is for you.

👉 Take this conversation back to the firehouse and talk about it. Because when we’re talking about the job, we’re making the job better.

🔥 Thanks for tuning in to this episode of National Fire Radio!
We’re more than just a podcast — we’re a movement, connecting the American fire service through conversations about culture, leadership, tradition, and innovation.

📱 Follow us on social media:
Instagram: @NationalFireRadio
Facebook: National Fire Radio
YouTube: National Fire Radio
TikTok: @NationalFireRadio
X (Twitter): @NationalFireRadio
LinkedIn: National Fire Radio

🎙 Subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform to help us keep growing!

406. “If Not You, Then Who?” Shannon Stone

Join Mickey in a conversation with Lieutenant Jason Redman, retired U.S. Navy SEAL and best-selling author, on my latest episode.

Jason's journey is one of resilience, triumph, and unwavering commitment to excellence. In this episode, we delve into the crucial topic of maintaining high standards in the fire service.

Top Floor Tactics Episode 29. Ret. Navy Seal Lieutenant Jason Redman

In this episode, Jeremy Donch speaks with John Kane, the coordinator of education and outreach for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF). They discuss the mission of the NFFF, which is to honor fallen firefighters, assist their families, and prevent future tragedies in the fire service. John shares insights into the various educational programs offered by the NFFF, including in-person training and online resources, aimed at improving firefighter safety and leadership. The conversation also highlights the importance of the Courage to Be Safe initiative and the personal journey of advocacy within the fire service.

407. National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Education and Outreach - John Kane

The National Fire Radio Podcast Channel featuring a variety of personalities and their podcasts that capture the essence of the Fire Service.

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