Charge the Line

Captain Eric Macleod joins Charge the Line to talk about the upcoming 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb and the launch of The 360—a new, department-wide, off-duty monthly firefighter roundtable.We discuss why we climb to remember, why the fire service needs honest conversation, and how The 360 will bring every rank and shift together around training and tactics, better ideas, real talk, culture, and mentorship.Join us for the 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb on September 11 and the first The 360 kickoff meeting on September 18. Bring a question. Bring an idea. Bring yourself.Sponsors  Redline Performance Labs: redlineperformancelabs.com  Fully Involved Print Co.: fullyinvolvedprintco.comAlways review product information, available documentation, and company policies. This podcast does not provide medical advice.Redline Performance Labs’ website identifies its products as laboratory research products, while Fully Involved Print Co. describes itself as a firefighter/veteran-owned custom graphics, print, embroidery, and apparel business.

What does it take to chase a dream when most people would have quit years ago?In this episode of Charge the Line, we sit down with professional MMA fighter Roger Reyes, who recently earned a contract with the PFL after years of sacrifice, setbacks, and relentless work. Roger shares the reality behind the highlight reels—the long training camps, balancing life outside the cage, overcoming adversity, and the mindset required to compete at the highest level.This conversation goes beyond fighting. We dive into discipline, faith, resilience, fatherhood, leadership, and why comfort is the biggest obstacle to reaching your potential.Whether you’re a firefighter, athlete, coach, business owner, or someone simply trying to become better than you were yesterday, this episode is packed with lessons that apply far beyond the cage.In this episode:    ●    Roger’s journey to the PFL    ●    The sacrifices required to pursue greatness    ●    Building mental toughness under pressure    ●    Faith, family, and staying grounded    ●    Training, recovery, and preparation    ●    Why average is the enemySponsored by Fully Involved Print Co.Premium custom apparel and printing for first responders, businesses, gyms, and organizations.🎙️ Subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who’s committed to raising their standard.Charge the Line — Average Is the Enemy.

In this episode of Hot Zone, we tackle a growing problem that extends far beyond the firehouse, the gym, or the workplace: the decline of personal accountability.Why has it become so difficult for people to simply say, “That’s on me”? Why do we live in a culture where excuses are plentiful, but ownership is rare?From the fire service to martial arts, leadership, parenting, and everyday life, we discuss how comfort, ego, and the desire to avoid criticism have created a society that is quick to blame others and slow to accept responsibility. The reality is that growth begins where excuses end. If everything is someone else’s fault, there is no reason to improve.Join us as we break down the culture of excuses, the role ego plays in avoiding accountability, and why ownership remains one of the most important traits for anyone seeking excellence.The mirror doesn’t lie. The question is: are you willing to look into it?Because in the end, the moment you stop making excuses and start taking ownership is the moment you take control of your life.#ChargeTheLinePodcast #HotZone #Leadership #Accountability #Ownership #FireService #GrowthMindset #AverageIsTheEnemy

In this episode of Charge The Line, we dive into how modern culture has become addicted to comfort--and how that mindset is slowly eroding standards in the fire service, the jiu jitsu community, leadership, and everyday life.Growth has never come from convenience. Whether its putting in extra reps, on the mats, training harder than required, holding the line on discipline, or stepping into uncomfortable situations as a leader-real progress demands sacrifice. If you want to become better at anything in life, you will have to be willing to suffer, struggle, and stay disciplined when most people choose the easy route. Because "Average is the Enemy".

"Firefighters Hate 2 things... How things are and change” 🔥Every firehouse has heard it.“They need to fix this place.”Then the second something changes…“Why are they changing everything?”The truth is, firefighters are some of the most passionate problem-solvers in the world—but that same passion can make us resistant to the very change we claim to want.In this Hot Zone episode, we dive into the contradiction that lives in every station: hating the current standard while fighting the evolution required to raise it. From staffing models and training expectations to culture shifts, leadership styles, and accountability, this conversation tackles why change feels personal in the fire service—and why growth demands discomfort.If we say we want better, we have to be willing to become better.Better systems. Better culture. Better leadership. Better firefighters.Because staying comfortable is easy.Progress is not.🎙️ Charge The Line Podcast — where average is the enemy and growth starts where comfort ends.#ChargeTheLine #HotZone #FireServiceLeadership #FirefighterCulture #LeadershipMatters #RaiseTheStandard #AverageIsTheEnemy #FirehouseTalk #GrowthMindset #FireService

We’re fired up to announce our latest episode of Charge the Line Podcast featuring 9-1 professional MMA fighter Julian Delgado.From amateur champion to dominating the pro ranks, Julian shares:🔥 The mindset behind a 9-1 record🔥 Lessons learned from adversity and setbacks🔥 What it really takes to transition from amateur to pro🔥 The discipline, sacrifices, and daily grind🔥 What’s next in his fighting careerThis episode is about more than fighting — it’s about resilience, preparation, and charging the line when it matters most.If you’re an athlete, competitor, first responder, or someone chasing big goals… this one’s for you.🎧 Tune in now.📲 Share it with someone who needs that next level mindset.#ChargeTheLine #JulianDelgado #MMA #ProFighter #Mindset #Leadership #Resilience

In this episode of Charge the Line, we sit down with Captain Charles Wilson of the U.S. Coast Guard for a powerful conversation on leadership, accountability, and decision-making under pressure.Captain Wilson shares insights from his career in maritime service, discussing what it means to lead in high-stakes environments where preparation, trust, and clarity matter most. We talk about building resilient teams, developing leaders at every level, and how calm, disciplined leadership can change outcomes when things go sideways.Whether you wear a uniform or lead in any capacity, this episode delivers real-world lessons on ownership, professionalism, and rising to the moment.

Rookie firefighters Matt Miranda and Zack Laroe join Charge The Line to talk academy life, rookie mistakes, and the reality of stepping into the field. We break down the transition from training to the fireground, the pressure of probation, and the mindset it takes to earn your place on the crew.Average is the enemy.

Roger and Tony recap 2025 discussing trial triumphs they experienced throughout the year.

Today Roger sits down with past guest and gym owner Santos Rosales and Fire Captain and health enthusiast Lonnie Loosemoore to talk about the various tools, workouts, and eating habits they use to stay fit after 40.

Sometimes growth means outgrowing people you never thought you'd lose. It's not hate. It's not drama. It's life. This episode breaks down why evolving relationships are normal and necessary.

The fellas talk about the safety culture in the fire service and how it has possibly handicapped firefighters from doing their jobs and stopped officers from making tactical decisions on critical events.

The crew sits down and discusses 3 reasons why adversity is a good thing .

The crew sits down to discuss Tonys experience from attending the IAFF Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial honoring past guest and fellow brother Mark Solis. They also discuss the other silent killer besides cancer in the fire service...post traumatic stress disorde and various ways to combat the disease.

A senseless death of perhaps one of the greatest Political minds was taken from us earlier this week. Today we remember Charlie Kirk for the man of God he was and his dedication to Truth and free speech!

Captain Lee Rogers is a previous guest with a 38 year fire service career. He served on the Texas Task Force Team and among his many deployments he found himself at ground zero a week after 9-11 occurred. He sits down with us and talks about his experience during that time

Catching up with Tony. This conversations covers upcoming 9-11 stair climb, God, and the Minnesota Catholic School shooting.

Roger talks with 20 year Senior Officer John Villarreal. They discuss the new generation of recruits, how the climate has changed for police, and some calls that have stuck with him throughout his career.

In our inaugural episode of HOT zone we discuss the Kerr County flood that occurred the morning of July 4th that has thus far claimed 120 lives with 150 plus still missing.

In our inagural episode of our Behind the Mask segment we talk to 25 year fire service member Roman Lopez. Firefighter Lopez has acted in many capacities within his department including an intricate role in his departments Critical Incident Stress Management peer support team. Lopez sits down and discusses some of the personal battles he has faced with post traumatic stress as well as how he has helped others overcome and cope with the issues they have.

In this episode Roger and Tony discuss recognizing a toxic culture that exists in the workplace as well as 3 ways to change the culture of that place. Any field you are in there will always be certain characteristics of people and environments where the culture is either toxic or becoming toxic! But don’t stress because in today’s episode the fellas discuss just how to help right that ship!

The guys sit down with 23 year CCFD veteran Captain Eric Macleod. Captain Macleod serves at the Technical Rescue station in Corpus Christi and has years of experience as a rescue specialist. They discuss his career in the fire service and talk about leadership, the shift in culture that he's seen, as well as doing things "the right way".

The crew wraps up the 2024 year with a discussion about changes, hardships, and successes they have had throughout this past year. From dealing with the loss of a close friend, to promotions in their fields, to new goals on their faith walk, the fellas open up about their best and most difficult times of this past year

Fresh off bringing Flour Bluff High school Coach Wallace sits down with the crew to talk about how she connects with her players and finds ways to bring the best out of them. Coach Wallace has been name 5A/6A Coach of the Year the past two years. She has also been named South Texas Coach of the year 3 different times throughout her career. Whether an aspiring athlete or if you are in any sort of leadership position this is an episode that will definitely bring you some value.

Roger and Tony sit down and discuss what they've been doing the past two months. They discuss some professional accomplishments along with personal goals and habits they have begun to improve their overall health and wellness.

Roger and T sit down with the only male wrestling state champ to come out of Corpus Christi, Tx. They speak with former state champ and NAIA national qualifier Daniel Leal about his wrestling career. The highs the lows and the dedication it took to become a state wrestling champion.

The guys discuss a topic out of the book “7 Secrets of Neuron Leadership”. How does cortisol affect leadership and what are some natural things as a leader you can do to prevent it from affecting you negatively.

Never allow other peoples lack of motivation or standards be the reason you lower yours. Many times people are just uncomfortable with the fact that you are doing things they aren't willing to do to be better. That's on them, not on you. Listen in as T and Roger sit down and discuss this very topic

Join in as the guys talk about the importance of being disciplined and what that means for your spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical health.

The fellas sit down with 21 year veteran firefighter and Captain Homer Sierra about his career in the fire department. Captain Sierra is now a Captain in the Special Services Division assigned to training. He speaks about his experience with changing the culture from the field to the training division discussing both the successes and difficulties he has faced along the way.

Rog and T sit down and talk about what it means to "embrace the suffering". Both men give their view points on the subject and share some life experiences that they both have had to "embrace" in order to move forward.

The gang sits down with Fire Captains Cody Eyring and Jack Arnold to discuss the impact and passing of beloved brother and former guest Marco Solis. The impact Firefighter Solis had was a profound and heartfelt one as he touched many lives in the fire service and in every other aspect of his life. Listen in to a genuine and heartfelt episode. Marco's favorite saying throughout his battle with cancer was "Win the Day" which is what we all must focus on as we try to move forward after our brothers passing.

Tony picks Rogers brain as he goes over some questions he's formed after recently diving into a daily devotional called The Daily Stoic

The team sits down with Joshua Verduzco who is a well known nutritionist and dietician. He has dedicated his life to helping people maximize their potential and live a healthier lifestyle. Tune into “Quit Your BS” for his knowledge and views on nutrition and weight loss!

This week's featured guest is Santos Rosales, a renowned personal trainer, successful entrepreneur, devoted family man, and the proud owner of Hybrid Fitness Academy. Santos is a trailblazer in the fitness world, constantly striving to set and achieve new fitness milestones. Tune in to episode 41, 'The Pursuit of Progress,' as Santos shares insights into his mindset and what fuels his drive.

Host Roger discusses what it means to change the culture and what it takes to do so. In whatever aspect of life your in sometimes complacency, toxic behavior, or just plain out laziness can infiltrate your world. Don't allow it and focus on "being the change"!

The guys catch up with 2x amateur national boxing champion"THE KING", Julian Delgado. They dive in to some setbacks he's faced since the last time they've met as well as touch on some opportunities he's had recently including training with the great Freddie Roach at the world renowned Wild Card Boxing gym in California; Tune in for "The Return of the KIng"

A great story of not allowing your environment influence your progress. We discuss his upbringing and how changing his mindset as an adolescent allowed him success as an athlete, student, business man, and fire department employee! Check out episode 39 “Up the Hill” coming out tomorrow!

Join the fellas sit down with Dr. Chad Peters, a successful business owner, devoted family man, and fitness enthusiast. Chad recently published his book, "Parenting from out of Bounds"", and in this episode they dive into his journey of maintaining a thriving practice while staying fit and being an involved dad and loving husband. Get ready for an inspiring conversation that covers it all, including Chad's insights from his new book!

Roger has dedicated 17 years to the fire department, had a successful professional career as a high-level mixed martial artist from 2011 to 2019, and has been running a thriving Jiu-Jitsu Academy for 8 years. In this episode, he and co-host Tony Perez delve into his definition of obsession, how it has fueled his drive for success, and the sacrifices he has made in his pursuit of his most recent endeavor: a promotion within the fire department.

Join the crew on this episode as they dive into the topic of entitlement. In this episode, the boldly explore entitlement in various areas of life including the fire department, gym, relationships and more. Tune in and join the discussion

The crew sit down with newly appointed Assistant Communications Director of Corpus Christ Cecilia Orozco. They discuss her career, her experience as an amateur wellness competitor as well as the odds she overcame and the mindset it took to accomplish what she has to this point. Tune in to one of our most inspiring podcast to date.

Rog flips the script and puts T on the hot seat as he picks his brain and asks what Tony looks for in a good follower, The guys usually talk about leadership, this episode is about what makes a good follower.

The crew sits down with current Submission Hunter Pro Brown Belt Heavy weight champ Anthony Narvaez and current phenom Joshua Leonard. Both fellas train at Narvaez Jiu Jitsu. The Narvaez brothers and Josh all are coming off of dominating performances in which all 3 opponents were finished with submissions. They have an animated convo over their mindset and preparation going into competition.

With Tony out, Rog sits down with Jason Flores a successful realtor who invest in his business, his family, and his health. Listen in as they talk about the trials and tribulations of all of the above. .

The guys get real in one of their most intense interviews. They change up the format and let T take the lead. This one is raw, real, and definitely no sugar coating. Listen in to episode 31 "Tony Takes the Lead"

The guys sit down with former marine, current blackbelt and K-9 trainer Sergio Esquivel and talk about 9/11, his path to blackbelt, and how he got into K-9 training as a profession.

The guys sit down with co-owner and long time cross fit enthusiast Bria Barton. Bria is a fit, driven, motivation mother of 3 who has a full time job, works out daily and still manage to run a business. This is an episode for anyone who is struggling to find time to make fitness a priority.

Roger and Tony sit down with friend and fellow co worker Captain Jorge Rivera to talk about what it means to be "Fit for Duty" in the fire service. In a time when obesity is running rampant in the fire service nation wide, these guys talk about how important and personal maintaining some kind of fitness is for each of them. Leave your feelings at the door and tune in!

The guys sit down with veteran firefighter and member of the women's USA Baseball team Valerie Perez. Val talks with the guys about her experience with the team and details the journey.