PODCAST · business
The First Things First
by Helton Pereira
The First Things First is a show created to help firefighters prioritize faith, family, fitness, and firefighting. It features real stories of struggle and recovery as guests share how putting the right things in the right order in their lives helped them fall in love and stay in love with the fire service.
Episodes
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Episode 30 - Pre-Conference Check-In - Daniel Allis
In today’s episode, Daniel and I talked about the transformative power of prayer and community in the fire service. We also discussed the upcoming First Things First conference, a gathering designed to foster a faith-filled environment for first responders. Register at www.TheFirstThingsFirst.com...
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Episode 30 - The 360 Within - Brent Cooper
In this episode, I had an amazing conversation with Brent Cooper about identity, faith, family, and healing. Brent shares how his experiences as a firefighter, husband, and father shaped his life, and how grief, counseling, fitness, and faith helped him begin a deeper process of renewal. We also...
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Episode 29 -Faith, Baptism, and FIREMANSHIP - Michael Magruder
On this episode, Michael Magruder, a firefighter from Colorado, shares how his complicated upbringing, military service, church hurt, and a difficult season at home eventually led him back to faith. He shares how his incredible baptism story became a turning point for his marriage, family, and...
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Episode 28 - Embracing Purpose, Peer Support, and Faith in Fire Service - Jeremie Humphrey
On this episode, I have a conversation with Captain Jeremie Humphrey about stepping into firefighting later in life, the importance of peer support, mental health, and faith-based resilience. This heartfelt discussion offers practical advice for firefighters and their families navigating the…
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Episode 27: Jesus & Mental Health - Derrick Carlisle
summary In this episode, Derek Carlisle and I explore the intersection of faith and mental health, emphasizing that struggles are part of the human experience even for Christians. We shared personal stories, biblical insights, and practical tips for relying on Jesus during tough times. We all…
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Episode 26: Thin Line Believers - Adam Kowing
On this episode I had a great conversation with Adam Kowing, a law enforcement officer who may not wear the same uniform as me, but has a similar mission on his front line; Which is to encourage men to be bold in their faith and live out their God-given purpose. We talked about faith, mental...
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Episode 25: Jamey Brice
In this episode, I invited my friend Jamie Bryce to share his powerful journey of faith, resilience, and hope after experiencing the devastating loss of his children in a house fire. Jamey's story not only hit close to home because of our friendship, but also as a great reminder for us, as...
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Episode 24: The Salty Rookie - Nichole O'Donnell
In this episode, Nicole O'Donnell shares her powerful story of overcoming childhood trauma, addiction, and mental health struggles to find purpose in the fire service. How her book, Diary of a Probie, aims to set a new standard for the next generation of firefighters and inspire others to walk by...
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Episode 23: The Overhaul - Preston Lyons
In this episode, Preston Lyons talks about his journey to becoming a firefighter, the importance of putting family first, and how he found the love for the job by attending firefighter conferences. The conversation also delves into the challenges of maintaining balance in life and the evolution…
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Episode 22: The Dad Shift - Tanner Carroll
In this powerful episode, Tanner shares his raw and inspiring story of battling mental health struggles, the importance of faith-based resilience programs, and how God transformed his life through community, counseling, and the Mighty Oaks Foundation. His journey offers hope and encouragement for...
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Episode 21: Called to Lead - Colby Rich
In this episode, I got a chance to chat with Colby Rich, a bi-vocational pastor who became a firefighter. We discussed the challenges and rewards of balancing these responsibilities, the importance of prioritizing family and ministry, and the lessons he learned through leadership in both the fire...
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Episode 20: Faith in the Firehouse - Daniel Allis
In this episode, I have a conversation with Daniel Allis, host of Faith in the Firehouse Podcast. We talked about his journey from a normal childhood to becoming a firefighter. Daniel shares insights into the influence of his upbringing, his fire service journey, and the pivotal moment in his…
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Episode 19: Season 2 Solo
In this episode of The First Things First show, I open season two with a solo podcast, focusing on the importance of prioritizing your purpose in the fire service. I will talk about some of the challenges faced in the profession, the significance of community support, and the need for personal...
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Episode 18: Suffer-Up -Nate Beuschel
In this episode, Nate Beuschel discusses the challenges and rewards of his career, the importance of mentorship, and his personal struggles with mental health and identity. Nate emphasizes the significance of faith, family, and community support in overcoming adversity and finding purpose in…
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Episode 17: Next Level Dad Fitness - Fernando Benitez
In this episode, I sat down with Fernando Benitez from Next Level Dad Fitness. Fernando shares how his passion for faith, family, fitness, and firefighting drives everything he does—both in and out of the firehouse. From his personal fitness journey to his mission of influencing men and women in...
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Episode 16: Faith, Family, Freedom - Griffin Coiner
In this episode, Griffin Coiner, a firefighter and founder of Stash Salt, shares about his journey into the fire service, his faith, and the importance of family. Griffin shares his personal experiences, including a significant leap of faith during challenging times, and how he navigated...
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Episode 15: The Decon Project - Pat Long
In this episode, Patrick Long discusses his journey as a firefighter, his faith, and the importance of being mission-minded in both personal and professional life. Pat opens up about his background, his marriage, and the impact of his faith on his family and career. The discussion also highlights...
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Episode 14: Forged in Darkness - Derrick Carlisle Jr & Paul Floyd
In this engaging episode, Derek Carlisle and Paul Floyd from Forged in Darkness discuss their journeys in the fire service, their Christian faith, and the importance of mentorship and community. They share personal testimonies of how their faith has shaped their lives and careers, emphasizing the...
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Episode 14: Forged in Darkness - Derrick Carlisle Jr & Paul Floyd
In this engaging episode, Derek Carlisle and Paul Floyd from Forged in Darkness discuss their journeys in the fire service, their Christian faith, and the importance of mentorship and community. They share personal testimonies of how their faith has shaped their lives and careers, emphasizing the...
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Episode 13: Anthony Gillan
In this episode, Ret. Captain Anthony Gillan explores the journey of a firefighter, from military service to the challenges faced in the fire service. Anthony shares his personal story of injury, recovery, and the role of faith in his life. They discuss the importance of mentorship, reevaluating...
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Episode 12 : Helping Other See in The Dark - Andy Starnes
In this episode, Chief Andy Starnes explores his journey as a firefighter, discussing the challenges and triumphs he faced in the fire service. He delves into the importance of prioritizing faith and family over the job, the role of spouses in personal growth, and the necessity of shining a light...
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Episode 11: Rescue by Faith Through Faith - Jason Sautel
In this episode, Jason Sautel, a retired Oakland firefighter and author of the book The Rescue, shares his transformative journey from a troubled childhood to finding purpose in the fire service and ultimately discovering faith. Jason discusses the challenges he faced, including mental health...
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Episode 10: Called, Crushed, and Qualified - Blake Stinnett
In this episode, we get to hear from Blake Stinnett, who shares his journey from a family background in the fire service to his own career as a firefighter and the founding of Next Rung, a nonprofit focused on mental health support for first responders. Blake discusses the importance of family,...
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Episode 9: First Family First - Mike Gagliano
In this episode, we talk with retired Seattle Fire Department Captain Mike Gagliano to discuss the profound impact of the fire service on personal and family life. Mike reflects on his love for the job, the camaraderie of the firehouse, and the challenges of balancing family dynamics with a...
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Episode 8: Motivation, Preparation, & Discipline - Julian Serrano
In this episode, Julian Serrano from Prepared to Fight Fire discusses the journey of becoming a firefighter, the importance of self-improvement, mentorship, and mental health in the fire service. Julian emphasizes the importance of setting personal standards, the value of mentorship, and the need...
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Episode 7 : Love, Promise, & Potential - Jimmy Pellitteri
In this conversation with retired Battalion Chief Jimmy Pellitteri, we discuss the profound journey of a firefighter, exploring themes of calling, resilience, and the importance of community and faith. Battalion Chief Pellitteri shares his personal story of overcoming a challenging upbringing…
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Episode 6: Timing, Identity, & Calling - Jonathan 'JD' Diaz
In this conversation, Jonathan 'JD' Diaz explores the intersection of his faith, fitness, and his life in the fire service. JD shares his journey as a probationary firefighter at the age of 40, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, servant leadership, and maintaining a strong faith. He...
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Episode 5: Identity, Purpose, & Resiliency - Jeremy Sanders
In this episode, Jeremy Sanders, host of the Crew 1st Culture Podcast, shares about the intricate balance between family life, faith, and a career in the fire service. Jeremy talks about his personal journey, including the challenges of being a step-parent in a blended family, the importance of...
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Episode 4: Faith, Family, & Servant Leadership - Josh S. Chase
In this episode, Captain Josh Chase discusses the importance of purpose, leadership, and personal growth. Captain Chase shares his experiences overcoming challenges, the significance of mentorship, and the role of servant leadership in the fire service. The episode also touches on the importance…
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Episode 3: Moral Injury, Mental Health, and Family Support - Nate 'Tuna' Gardner
In this episode, Nate 'Tuna' Gardner shares his journey from a listless life to finding purpose in the fire service. Nate discusses the challenges and realities of being a firefighter, including the impact of trauma and the distinction between moral injury and PTSD. Tuna emphasizes the importance...
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Episode 2: Family, Leadership, and Mentoring - John Velez Jr.
John Velez Jr., host of the Tailboard Misfits Podcast, discusses his journey of becoming a firefighter, the importance of mentorship, and the balance between family and work. John shares his experiences in the fire service, the challenges he faced, and how he learned to prioritize his faith and...
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Episode 1: Putting the First Things First - Helton Pereira
**Episode 1: Putting the First Things First** In the debut episode of 'The First Things First', I will dive into what it really means to set the right priorities as firefighters. Over time, the job we once loved can feel overwhelming, routine, or even exhausting. But what if the key to falling in...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
The First Things First is a show created to help firefighters prioritize faith, family, fitness, and firefighting. It features real stories of struggle and recovery as guests share how putting the right things in the right order in their lives helped them fall in love and stay in love with the fire service.
HOSTED BY
Helton Pereira
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does The First Things First have?
The First Things First currently has 32 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is The First Things First about?
The First Things First is a show created to help firefighters prioritize faith, family, fitness, and firefighting. It features real stories of struggle and recovery as guests share how putting the right things in the right order in their lives helped them fall in love and stay in love with the fire...
How often does The First Things First release new episodes?
The First Things First has 32 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to The First Things First?
You can listen to The First Things First on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts The First Things First?
The First Things First is created and hosted by Helton Pereira.
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