PODCAST · business
Third Alarm Cowboys Podcast
by Heath Meredith
Teaching what it takes to be a successful firefighter on and off the job. Having real life conversations about topics that most people refuse to talk about. Thirdalarmcowboys.com Paynemason.com/thirdalarmcowboys 1stphorm.com/thirdalarmcowboys
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#132 Hiring a Pulse
Thirdalarmcowboys.comtestresq.comPromo code- ThirdalarmFallen Heroes of 9/11 Cigar Bundlepaynemason.com/thirdalarmcowboysPostworkout Recovery-1stphorm.com/thirdalarmcowboysHeath Meredith discusses a range of topics including the launch of new merchandise, a platform for test preparation, post-workout recovery products, and the importance of open-mindedness in the fire service. He also addresses the issue of instructors promoting their methods as the only way, and the need for firefighters to select training that is relevant to their department. The conversation covers the challenges and concerns related to the current state of fire service, the need for a higher standard of training and professionalism, and the creation of a community of dedicated and passionate firefighters. It also emphasizes the importance of building a stronger and more supportive fire service culture.TakeawaysMerchandise launch and order fulfillmentTest preparation platformPost-workout recovery productsImportance of open-mindedness in the fire serviceSelecting relevant training for the department Training and professionalism in the fire service are at risk due to the hiring of underqualified personnel.The creation of a community of dedicated and passionate firefighters is essential for improving the fire service.Chapters00:00 Merchandise Launch and Order Fulfillment01:29 Test Preparation Platform04:48 Post-Workout Recovery Products09:00 Importance of Open-Mindedness in the Fire Service29:46 Selecting Relevant Training for the Department31:40 Challenges in the Fire Service32:07 The Need for Higher Standards35:19 Creating a Community of Dedicated Firefighters45:23 Building a Stronger Fire Service Culture
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#131 Decision Makers
thirdalarmcowboys.comCigars- Paynemason.com/thirdalarmcowboysPromo Code- TAChttps://testresq.com/Promo Code-ThirdalarmProtein- 1stphorm.com/thirdalarmcowboysPodcast appearances-A Silent War Withinhttps://youtu.be/Mkfczwwqck8?si=wwemg-0zDhD7HT4ACopper State Firemen Podcasthttps://open.spotify.com/episode/7IZ2PEQRTaeGZivHLbytVw?si=EWCW0y-mSVCimhD5fkVgigHeath Meredith discusses recent podcast appearances, upcoming training events, and the importance of action and leadership in the fire service. He also promotes sponsor products and shares insights on fire service leadership and decision-making. Heath Meredith discusses the challenges and frustrations of fire service leadership, emphasizing the disconnect between decision-makers and operational firefighters. He highlights the need for a new generation of leaders who prioritize operational excellence and genuine care for the mission of the fire service.TakeawaysPodcast appearances and training eventsImportance of action and leadership in the fire service Operational leaders in the fire service are often disconnected from the day-to-day challenges and needs of operational firefighters.The current generation of leaders is focused on administrative and political aspects, leading to decisions that do not align with the operational realities of firefighting.Chapters00:00 Recent Podcast Appearances and Training Events11:13 The Importance of Action and Leadership31:27 The Disconnect Between Decision-Makers and Operational Firefighters34:28 The Impact of Leadership Decisions on Fire Service Operations40:46 The Need for a New Generation of Operational Leaders57:27 Taking Action to Change the Outlook of the Fire Service
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#130 Do as I say, Not as I Do
Thirdalarmcowboys.comCigars- Paynemason.com/thirdalarmcowboysPromo Code- TACWorkout Supplements- 1stphorm.com/thirdalarmcowboysTestresQ.comPromo Code- Thirdalarm (20% off first month)The podcast episode begins with an introduction to the Third Alarm Cowboys Podcast and the host's activities on the ranch. It then covers upcoming events and engagements, sponsorship and promotional content, and a discussion on an upcoming controversial article. The host shares his experiences with chiefs and the realities of ranching, as well as the challenges of budgeting and ranching. The conversation delves into the challenges of running a business, the stress of managing a business, toxic leadership, and the essence of leadership. It emphasizes the importance of giving a damn and the simplicity yet difficulty of effective leadership.TakeawaysRealities of ranchingChallenges of being a chief Leadership is simple but hardLeadership requires giving a damnChapters00:00 Introduction to the Third Alarm Cowboys Podcast01:28 Upcoming Events and Engagements08:07 Sponsorship and Promotional Content14:58 Discussion on Upcoming Controversial Article15:05 Experience with Chiefs and Ranching Realities24:12 Challenges of Budgeting and Ranching29:35 The Reality of Running a Business30:20 The Stress of Running a Business31:54 Leadership and Accountability33:19 Toxic Leadership and Expectations35:00 The Role of a Chief and Leadership36:25 The Essence of Leadership43:13 The Responsibility of a Chief45:54 Leadership and Accountability
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#129 Fire Service Cowardice
Thirdalarmcowboys.comFounding Outlaw App- https://forms.gle/rA3y9vg6UqDcB2gs9Paynemason.com/thirdalarmcowboysPromo Code- TACMONTH1Protein and Supplements- 1stphorm.com/thirdalarmcowboysTestresq.comPromo Code- ThirdalarmThe Third Alarm Cowboys Podcast discusses the growth of the platform, the formation of the Founding Outlaws, and the issue of cowardice in the fire service. The host emphasizes the importance of speaking the truth and standing up for what is right, addressing the challenges faced by the fire service and the impact on mental health. Heath Meredith discusses the growing frustration and disillusionment among citizens and firefighters, emphasizing the need for authenticity, integrity, and adherence to constitutional rights. He also addresses the changing landscape of the fire service and the importance of pursuing fulfillment and purpose in one's career.TakeawaysPlatform growth and Founding Outlaws formationChallenges of cowardice in the fire serviceImportance of speaking the truth and standing up for what is right Constitutional rights and freedom of speech are at the forefront of citizens' frustrations.The fire service is experiencing a shift towards a focus on operational ability and real-world training.Chapters00:00 Platform Growth and Founding Outlaws Formation07:33 Challenges of Cowardice in the Fire Service27:18 Importance of Speaking the Truth and Standing Up for What is Right32:56 Growing Frustration and Disillusionment39:43 The Changing Landscape of the Fire Service48:59 Living a Reality You Don't Believe In59:13 Pursuing Fulfillment and Purpose
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#128 The Curse
Thirdalarmcowboys.comProtein- https://1stphorm.com/products/phormula-1-clear/?a_aid=thirdalarmcowboysCigars- Paynemason.com/thirdalarmcowboysPromo Code: TACThe conversation delves into the real-life experiences of individuals in the fire service and the impact of personal experiences on professional behavior. It explores the challenges and dynamics of life in the fire service, shedding light on the cross-bugle curse and the need for change and accountability within the industry. The conversation delves into the themes of leadership, accountability, self-reflection, and continuous learning. It emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, continuous learning, and the need for strong leadership and accountability in the fire service. The speaker shares personal experiences and insights, highlighting the challenges and responsibilities of leadership in the fire service.TakeawaysReal-life experiences in the fire serviceThe impact of personal experiences on professional behavior Leadership and accountabilitySelf-reflection and continuous learningChapters00:00 Life in the Fire Service24:21 The Cross-Bugle Curse34:56 Leadership and Accountability56:28 Self-Reflection and Continuous Learning
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#127 State of the Fire Service- Radioactive
thirdalarmcowboys.comCigars- Paynemason.com/thirdalarmcowboysPromo Code-FistfightEnergy Drinks/Protein- 1stphorm.com/thirdalarmcowboysThe podcast episode delves into the toxic and corrupt state of the fire service, addressing issues of toxic behavior, leadership, and the mental health crisis. It highlights the culture of fear and silence, as well as the duty to act and the goldfish mentality prevalent in the fire service. Heath Meredith discusses the impact of AI in the fire service, emphasizing the need for critical thinking and authenticity. He also delves into the business side of the fire service and the role of firefighters in society. Finally, he encourages action to create positive change within the fire service.TakeawaysToxic behavior and corrupt leadership are pervasive issues in the fire service.The culture of fear and silence contributes to the mental health crisis among firefighters. Authenticity and real-life experience are crucial in the fire service.The role of firefighters extends beyond firefighting, impacting society and culture.Chapters00:00 The State of the Union of the Fire Service10:05 The Culture of Fear and Silence31:46 The Duty to Act and the Goldfish Mentality47:20 The Business Side of Fire Service53:28 The Role of Firefighters in Society01:00:53 Taking Action to Create Change
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#126 Earning That Title
Thirdalarmcowboys.comCigars- Paynemason.com/thirdalarmcowboysPromo code: TACProtein/Energy Drinks: 1stphorm.com/thirdalarmcowboysThe podcast episode features Heath Meredith discussing the growth of Third Alarm Cowboys, his personal background in the oil field, and the value of hard work in the fire service. Heath emphasizes the importance of earning one's title and badge every day through hard work and dedication.TakeawaysHard work and dedication are essential in the fire serviceEarning one's title and badge through manual labor and dedication is a core value of the Third Alarm Cowboys brandChapters00:00 Introduction to Third Alarm Cowboys Podcast05:31 Challenges in Pursuing a Firefighting Career13:30 The Value of Hard Work and Accomplishment25:35 The Fire Service and the Value of Hard Work
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#125 Bridging Gaps feat. Fire Chief Marty Cornilson
Thirdalarmcowboys.comSupplements-1stphorm.com/thirdalarmcowboysCigars-paynemason.com/thirdalarmcowboyspromo code: TACThe podcast episode features a conversation between Heath Meredith and Marty Cornilson, a fire chief with 31 years of experience. They discuss topics such as fire season preparations, recruitment and retention challenges, leadership styles, and the changing dynamics of the fire service. Marty shares insights on bridging the gap between fire chiefs and firefighters, addressing staffing struggles, and promoting a positive fire service culture. The conversation covers a range of topics related to fire service leadership, training, and organizational culture. It emphasizes the importance of probationary periods, accountability, community engagement, and the need for innovative and practical training methods. The conversation also highlights the significance of understanding the mindset of firefighters and the need for effective leadership and management practices.TakeawaysFire season preparations are underway in California and Texas, with a focus on pre-deployment and red flag warnings.Recruitment and retention challenges in the fire service are influenced by factors such as competition from larger departments, changing demographics, and the need to adapt leadership styles to accommodate diverse personalities.The role of leadership in the fire service is evolving, with an emphasis on understanding and accommodating different learning styles and personalities, as well as promoting a positive fire service culture. Probationary periods are crucial for identifying and addressing issues with new firefighters early on.Community engagement is essential for building trust and support for the fire service.Innovative and practical training methods are necessary for preparing firefighters for real-life emergency situations.Understanding the mindset of firefighters and providing effective leadership and management practices are key to a successful fire service organization.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Fire Season Preparations06:31 Recruitment and Retention Challenges16:58 Involvement in Conferences and Training24:15 Promoting Personnel and Leadership Styles38:35 The Importance of Probationary Periods
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#124 Firefighter 6-Packs feat. Captain Dan Ski FDNY
Thirdalarmcowboys.comSupplements- Protein - Energy drinks-1stphorm.com/thirdalarmcowboysFirefighter Cigars-paynemason.com/thirdalarmcowboyspromo code: TACThe conversation covers a range of topics related to firefighter fitness, nutrition, and the challenges of maintaining physical readiness for the demands of the job. It emphasizes the importance of strength, conditioning, and injury prevention for firefighters, as well as the need for a balanced approach to fitness and performance. The discussion also touches on the cultural attitudes towards fitness and the misconceptions surrounding physical appearance and performance in the fire service. The conversation covers a range of topics including fitness, diet, and the impact of the fire service on the body. It emphasizes the importance of education, simplicity, and self-care in maintaining physical and mental health as a firefighter.TakeawaysFirefighter fitness requires a focus on strength, conditioning, and injury prevention.Balanced nutrition and workout routines are essential for maintaining fire ground performance.Cultural attitudes towards fitness and physical appearance in the fire service can lead to misconceptions and unrealistic expectations. EducationSimplicity
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#123 Fire Officer Tactical Sheet
Fire Officer Tactical Sheet30 day Breakdown over the real How To be a good officer.The next generation of firefighters are different than anything we have ever seen before.thirdalarmcowboys.comEnergy Drinks-1stphorm.com/thirdalarmcowboysCigars- Paynemason.com/thirdalarmcowboys
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#122 Trust and Training
How do Trust and Training relate in the Fire Service?Whats my biggest flaw?thirdalarmcowboys.comProtein and energy drinks1stphorm.com/thirdalarmcowboysCigarspaynemason.com/thirdalarmcowboys
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#121 Us vs Them
thirdalarmcowboys.comThe podcast episode covers a range of topics related to the fire service, including supporting a mentor's political campaign, an upcoming fire summit, hands-on training, the 'us versus them' mentality, financial challenges, and salary disparities in leadership positions within the fire service. The conversation delves into the prevalent 'us versus them' mentality in the fire service, highlighting the impact of this divide on the relationship between firefighters and fire chiefs. It also emphasizes the importance of a mission-focused mindset for both firefighters and fire chiefs, offering insights into the challenges and solutions for addressing these issues.TakeawaysReal-life situations in the fire serviceImpact of leadership and promotions on firefighters Us versus them mentality in the fire serviceThe importance of a mission-focused mindsetChapters00:00 Introduction to the Podcast12:27 Us Versus Them Mentality in the Fire Service19:30 Financial Challenges and Disparities in the Fire Service26:55 Salary Disparities and Leadership Positions33:04 The Role of Fire Chiefs46:36 Mission-Focused MindsetProtein and Energy Drinks:1stphorm.com/thirdalarmcowboysCigars-paynemason.com/thirdalarmcowboyspromo code: TAC
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#120 Texas Roots feat. Captain Kelcey Trotty
Texas Firefighter of the YearSFFMA 4th Vice President CandidateLongview Texas Fire CaptainHeath and Kelcey talk about their Texas roots. Growing up together in Nacogdoches. Kelcey is the first Chief that hired Heath for a paid fire job. Discussion about fire service leadership and the future.Longview Fire Departments radio tower high angle rescue.thirdalarmcowboys.comcigars-paynemason.com/thirdalarmcowboysProtein-1stphorm.com/thirdalarmcowboys
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#119 Lateral Transfers
Are lateral transfers good or bad?What do they mean for the future of the service?Why should we even do laterals?How should be pay?I challenge Chiefs to listen to this episode and reflect on their opinions about lateral transfers!linktr.ee/thirdalarmcowboysBook Training [email protected]/thirdalarmcowboysCigars-paynemason.com/thirdalarmcowboys
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#118 What is Experience?
What is real fire experience?Do years of service count?Are you Brave?Are you the same person in real life you say you are on social media?Order your "Pick a Side" shirt today!thirdalarmcowboys.comProtein and energy drinks-1stphorm.com/thirdalarmcowboysCigars-paynemason.com/thirdalarmcowboys
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#117 Calling Balls and Strikes
#117 Calling Balls and Strikeslinktr.ee/thirdalarmcowboysSmoky Mountain Wkd Registration-www.smokymtnweekend.orgStop riding the fence on everything!thirdalarmcowboys.com1stphorm.com/thirdalarmcowboyscigars-paynemason.com/thirdalarmcowboys
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#116 Violent Encounters
Jake Hecht from VEST First Responder Training comes on the show to discuss his class. Violent Encounters training is now required by NFPA. ITS ABOUT TIME! We have all had issues with crazy folks on scene or drug addicts. FINALLY someone is addressing the issue! vestfirstresponder.comthirdalarmcowboys.com1stphorm.com/thirdalarmcowboys.comcigars- paynemason.com/thirdalarmcowboys
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#115 Small Ball Ignorance
Do we even know the basics?Complacency isn't killing us in the future... its ignorance!Fire Chiefs... here is your challenge!Whats the difference between ball and the fire service?thirdalarmcowboys.com1stphorm.com/thirdalarmcowboyscigars-paynemason.com/thirdalarmcowboys
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#114 Policies are Killing the Service
How are policies killing todays fire service?Whats more important... your guys family or department policy?Why cant you hire enough people to fill your departments ranks?Why does the whole service see a decline in staffing and retention?Why is the civilian fire death toll increasing?thirdalarmcowboys.com1stphorm.com/thirdalarmcowboys
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#113 Hope Is Not a Tactic
Firefighter critical thinking is dead....We have to teach them how to stay alive!Are you just collecting a check?thirdalarmcowboys.comMarch Mayhem Cigar PreorderPromo Code-MAYHEMWILLCALLhttps://paynemason.com/shop/handmade-cigars/event-pre-order-third-alarm-cowboys-march-mayhem-fire-conference-smoke-out/March Mayhem Shirt-https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLVJXV3ZMB07Q/checkout/RBZDCJGCYL2XYTWGEVR3RRUCLIFT Shirt- https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLVJXV3ZMB07Q/checkout/HXCG7GRDVVO5CMIGR5IH7JIC
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#112 Composure, Character, the Company Officer
#112 Composure, Character, the Company Officerthirdalarmcowboys.comComposure even in the hard timesFirefighter Character MattersHow to set the expectations as a company officerVirtual TAC Lecture scheduled for Feb 20 2026Book your seat today at thirdalarmcowboys.com1stphorm.com/thirdalarmcowboys (energy drinks)Paynemason.com/thirdalarmcowboys (cigars)
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#111 The Mirror
Order your LIFT and March Mayhem Exclusive shirts today-thirdalarmcowboys.comIts time to piss everyone off! Firefighters have to do better!
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#110 Still Goin Up
2026 is kicking off with a BANG! What is the brand of a firefighter? Why do we let people that will openly say they could never do our job tell us how to do our job?Order your firehouse fistfights shirts today!thirdalarmcowboys.com
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#109 Fixing Haters and Leeches
How to deal with haters and leeches in the fire service.What are hater and leeches?Since when did we stop trying to make things better?Get in on the virtual TAC Channel lecture.Thirdalarmcowboys.com
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#108 The Truth about Hiring
Finally discussing the article about the four firefighters hazing incident.What is the most important thing in a hiring process? What does it feel like trying to get that first fire job? What should I do or say in my interview? Thirdalarmcowboys.com
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#107 Tolerance
What is tolerance? He’s been that way for 20 years. What’s the current culture on rescuing one of our own in your department? Thirdalarmcowboys.com
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#106 Case Law
First video podcast! Discussing the $30 million dollar case law to fix the fire service!! Operations matter. Go follow and subscribe on YouTube. Linktr.ee/thirdalarmcowboys
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#105 Gettin Out of Running Calls
This episode we talk about how to cheat the system to get out of running calls all night. How did not have to deal with the crackhead. How to get ahead in our career with promotions. What’s the mindset of these young firefighters coming up? Thirdalarmcowboys.com [email protected]
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#104 Q&A
1. We keep trying with this guy, but he isn’t getting it. Do we get rid of him? 2. How do I give work references to people? 3. How do I describe leadership? Thirdalarmcowboys.com
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#103 Death
Today’s fire service on life vs death Are we profiting off the death of firefighters? Thirdalarmcowboys.com
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#102 Be Who You Claim to Be
Thank you to Gilmer County for bringing us out! Charlie Kirk and the fire service Thirdalarmcowboys.com
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#101 Divided
How is the fire service split? How do we fix it? Record number of submissions this year?Silver spoon firefighters? Thirdalarmcowboys.com
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#100 Fire Service v. Constitution
Do you have freedom of speech as a firefighter? What is a public sector employee? What is hate speech? Are you a poopy pants? Thank you for 100 episodes! Thank you to the Fire chiefs that believe in the constitution!Thirdalarmcowboys.com
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#99 Fire Chief Civil War
Did you know there’s such a big fight between Chiefs? You are living beyond your means! Says some Chiefs across the country. Let’s talk about money in today’s fire service. Thirdalarmcowboys.com
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#98 The Engine Operator
This episode is a continuation of #97 Fast Growing Departments. With that I discuss how I believe the EO position is the most attacked position in the fire service. thirdalarmcowboys.com
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#97 Fast Growing Departments
Q&A style episode where I answer the question…How do fast growing departments handle the balance of needed to grow the staffing vs keeping traditions and standard alive. Thirdalarmcowboys.com
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#96 Feuds and Gotcha’s
Q&A episode Talking shit on a department vs a chief Why is there a feud between career and volunteer firefighters? Where do policies and SOGs fit on the fireground? Facebook comments….Thirdalarmcowboys.com
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#95 Fire Service Losers
CRINGE fistfight shirts. Debrief of San Marcos Training. Huge thank you to South Hays Fire Department for hosting training day!! Let’s talk about what a fire service loser is. What mindset gets you in the loser bracket? How are we winning today? Telling people the equipment they have or are “allowed” to have is stupid?Thirdalarmcowboys.com
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#94 Who is to Blame?
The question keeps getting asked who is to blame for the devastating Texas floods. Who is to blame?I’ve spent the last week digging in and trying to find out why emergency response is such an issue in Texas. This episode I lay out the foundation of how emergency services are funded and controlled in Texas. Why departments aren’t saying yes to helping their neighbors. Share this episode with everyone you know Thirdalarmcowboys.com
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#93 Destiny to Legacy Riding for the Brand feat. Idaho Fire Chief Kris Blume
A great discussion with Chief Blume talking about today’s fire service. The mentality of riding for the brand and how it relates to the fire service. We discuss the different timelines of your career. As an Idaho fire chief, we also discussed the horrific events recently happening with the murder of first responders. Thirdalarmcowboys.com
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#92 Real Professionals
What’s professionalism in the fire service? Prayers for Idaho Thirdalarmcowboys.com
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#91 The Chicago Effect
Why did Chicago fire pass this new policy? How do we save our jobs? Thirdalarmcowboys.com
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#90 Normal Human Sh*t
Is there something wrong with you? 1stphorm.com/thirdalarmcowboys
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#89 Firehouse Fistfights
What’s up with the fistfight tshirt?? Thirdalarmcowboys.com
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#88 Daddy Ball
How does daddy ball in sports relate to the fire service?Why am I still a firefighter and not promoted? Do you want someone that can get your guys at your department back to the mission?Who do attorneys really work for? Thirdalarmcowboys.com
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#87 Hit the Wall
What is the only acceptable way to lose firefighters from your department?What is the number one issue in today’s fire service? Thirdalarmcowboys.com
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#86 Take Action
Want to be remembered? Want to promote? Thirdalarmcowboys.com
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#85 US Senate
Thirdalarmcowboys.com
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#84 Fire Service Pendulum feat. Chief David Rhodes
Relationships are more powerful than a 1500 GPM pump! Fire service is a service. The organization isn’t there for the organization. Would you drain the swimming pool before making entry? Thirdalarmcowboys.com
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#83 Fire Chief Kingdom
At no point did you give up your freedom of speech to become a firefighter.Who are these Chiefs that given an oath to protect the citizens at all costs but do not believe in the constitution of the United States? Thirdalarmcowboys.com
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Teaching what it takes to be a successful firefighter on and off the job. Having real life conversations about topics that most people refuse to talk about. Thirdalarmcowboys.com Paynemason.com/thirdalarmcowboys 1stphorm.com/thirdalarmcowboys
HOSTED BY
Heath Meredith
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