In this episode of Frontline Mindset, Rob sits down with James Denney, a seasoned
firefighter from Del Rio, Texas, to explore 17 years of wisdom earned on the fireground. From navigating lean staffing and optimizing training in a resource-strapped environment to evolving his techniques in pump ops, hose deployment, and forcible entry, Denney shares real-world lessons with impact. He opens up about the unique challenges of serving during the COVID-19 pandemic and how the ongoing border crisis shapes their day-to-day calls. With a deep focus on brotherhood, mentorship, and mental resilience, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone seeking insight into staying sharp, staying positive, and staying grounded in the fire service.

Frontline Mindset Episode 33 Border Bombero with James Denney

393. The Cool Fireman Podcast.

LYRICS:

I know you’re hurting,
I see those long dark eyes,
And a bottle of rye, 
Got world on your mind,

When the days ain’t kind, 
We cry sometimes,
It’ll be alright, 

When everything’s sideways,
Through long nights and dark days. 
You feel like you can’t go on,

Come hard times and heartbreak,
The rewrites and mistakes,
I’ll be here with open arms,

Ohh if you’re lonely,
Brother call me,
Lay your head down a little while,

I’ll let you hold me,
Brother find me, 
Lay your head down a little while,
Lay your head down 
Lay your head down 
Lay your head down 

Let the rain fall,
Let the truth all out,
I won’t preach, won’t judge,
And I won’t give up,

When everything’s sideways,
Through long nights and dark days. 
You feel like you can’t go on,

Come hard times and heartbreak,
The rewrites and mistakes,
I’ll be here with open arms,

Ohh if you’re lonely,
Brother call me,
Lay your head down a little while,

I’ll let you hold me,
Brother find me
We can make it 
Another night.

A Heavy heart, 
A hundred scars, 
I’ll carry on my shoulders,

Ohh if you’re lonely,
Brother call me,
Lay your head down a little while,

Lay your head down a little while

Lay your head down
Lay your head down
Lay your head down

Lay your head down a little while
A Little while, little while
Lay your head down a little while, little while
Lay your head down a little while, little while
Lay your head down a little while, little while
Lay your head down a little while

Ohh if you’re lonely,
Brother call me,
Lay your head down a little while

Lay Your Head

LISTEN

This week, my friend Mike Smith Engine Co. 48 FDNY is back as we dive into all things Engine — operations, riding positions, communication, tradition, and why, no matter what, this is still the greatest job on earth.

Chapter 71. Mike Smith

In this special episode of The Size Up, host Pip engages in a heartfelt conversation with his father, Russ, exploring their family dynamics, the evolution of firefighting, and the importance of mentorship and leadership. Through storytelling, they reflect on personal growth, career paths, and memorable experiences in the fire department, highlighting the significance of relationships and life lessons learned along the way.

The Size Up: Chats With Big Russ Episode 1

Rob highlights a must-read article by Peter Matthews, Editor-in-Chief of Firehouse Magazine, titled "Getting Involved Locally with Politics for National Impact." It’s a wake-up call to firefighters everywhere—career and volunteer—about the critical need to engage in politics to secure funding, gear, staffing, and safety.
With programs like AFG and SAFER in limbo, the National Fire Academy canceling classes, and dangerous building trends like single-stairwell construction on the rise, the fire service is falling behind. Meanwhile, other countries are acting, and we’re still debating basics like sprinkler systems.
The bottom line: If we don’t show up and speak up, we don’t get heard or funded—and that costs lives.
Rob urges listeners to read the article, visit CFSI.org, and start advocating for the future of the job.


Frontline Mindset Episode. 34 A Call to Action

This chapter breaks down The Salute, The Handshake, and The Knock—three timeless gestures that once meant everything in the firehouse.

The salute stood for respect. The handshake meant your word held weight. And the knock was how you separated the kitchen from the office. 

Today, we’re watching those foundations slip. Let’s talk about why they mattered, how we’re losing them, and what it’ll take to bring them back.

72.  The Salute, The Handshake, The Knock

In this episode of The Size Up , Pip and Dennis discuss the evolution of firefighting, the importance of humor and kindness in the fire service, and the value of personal growth through reflection on past experiences. Dennis and Pip explore the importance of seeking help for mental health, the generational differences in attitudes towards therapy, and the transformative experience of traveling to Thailand. They discuss the significance of learning about relationships, the challenges of letting go of material possessions, and the cultural insights gained from living in a different country. The dialogue emphasizes the value of kindness, adaptability, and personal growth through travel. Dennis shares his experiences in Thailand, discussing how living in a different culture has reshaped his worldview and ignited a desire for more adventures. They delve into the significance of stepping outside of comfort zones, the open door policy of travelers, and the value of kindness in personal growth. The discussion culminates in Dennis offering heartfelt advice to his younger self, emphasizing the need for self-kindness as a foundation for spreading kindness to others. Because, what you do off the job, MATTERS!!!


The Size Up Episode 112 - Kindness is Free - Dennis Burns

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

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

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

National Fire Radio Podcast Channel

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