#416 Evolving the Fireground: International Lessons with Mike Stachowicz

In this episode, Pete sits down once again with Watch Manager Mike “Stacko” Stachowicz GIFIRE a UK firefighter, international fire behaviour instructor, and long-time friend of the podcast to unpack his experiences from IFIW (International Fire Instructor’s Workshop) 2025. From live burns and tactical experiments in Colorado to conversations with global leaders like Andy Starnes, James Mendoza, John McDonough, and Keith Stakes from UL FSRI, Mike brings a firsthand look at the science, strategy, and mindset shaping modern firefighting.Together, Pete and Mike dig into what’s changing on the fireground: the ongoing debate over hose sizes, advances in ventilation and water mapping, and how global collaboration is helping the UK fire service evolve its approach to training, welfare, and leadership. It’s raw, technical, and unfiltered for a deep dive into how international lessons translate into real-world performance for the crews on the ground.Access all episodes, documents, GIVEAWAYS & debriefs HEREPodcast Apparel, Hoodies, Flags, Mugs HEREPODCAST GIFT - FREE subscription to essential Firefighting publications HERE A big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode.GORE-TEX Professional ClothingMSA The Safety CompanyIDEXFIRE & EVACUATION SERVICE LTD HAIX Footwear - Get offical podcast discount on HAIX HEREXendurance - to hunt performance & endurance 20% off HERE with code ffp20Lyfe Linez -  Get Functional Hydration FUEL for FIREFIGHTERS, Clean no sugar  for daily hydration. 80% of people live dehydratedSend us Fan MailSupport the show***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.***Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew