FireHouse

Peter Matthews is joined by Saratoga Springs, NY, firefighter Tyler Whittredge to talk about firefighters’ finding their identities in the station, accountability and what makes a good firefighter.  Whittredge explains what he’s observed when it comes to members find their personality in a job full of Type-A personalities and how members can build each other through their strengths. Part of the process, Whittredge says, is by crews holding each other accountable on and off the fireground.  Whittredge talks about his time as a bunk-in firefighters near Syracuse, NY, and what led him to write the article, “What Makes a Good Firefighter?” which was published on Firehouse.com earlier this month. Focusing on that article, Whittredge explains what the “it” is that makes a firefighter a solid member of the crew, plus a discussion on personality vs. mentality.  Related links:  Tyler Whittredge Firehouse.com bio and contributor page  What Makes a Good Firefighter?  

Station Design Conference Director Janet Wilmoth and architects Mike Scott and Patrick Stone discuss this year’s conference, which takes place in May in Reno, NV. Peter Matthews digs into their sessions, asks what’s new at the public safety facility design conference and what they suggest attendees do to get the most out of the conference.   Janet Wilmoth offers highlights from around the conference, including new topics and trends that a variety of speakers will cover, along with the need for collaboration with other public safety agencies for training and operations facilities. Patrick Stone from H2M architects + engineers, who is also a firefighter, previews his sessions on next-generation public safety facilities and how that will impact buildings in the future, plus a look at why designing a station requires a lot of questions to be asked, like the design of a new fire apparatus. Mike Scott, with RRM Design, talks about critical need for programming, which is the first step of laying out needs and plans for a fire station.  Both architects, who are veterans of the Station Design Conference, explain how the event fosters a collaborative effort between architects, service providers, builders and attendees to build the facility properly the first time and how attendees can return home ready to start the process.   Related links:  Station Design Conference Janet Wilmoth’s Firehouse Contributor Page Mike Scott’s Firehouse Contributor Page Patrick O. Stone’s Firehouse Contributor Page Emergency Vehicle Technician of the Year Award 

In the second episode of Beyond the Bugles, Chief Jacob Johnson is joined by retired Chief Dennis Reilly. The legacy that Chief Reilly left behind is one to be admired and one that is extended on this episode. The two chiefs discuss integrity, moral courage, setting the tone and family. 

Flip Griffin, a retired U.S. Navy Command Master Chief, talks with Peter Matthews about his new mission, Firehouse Freedom. Griffin has been teaching fire departments about the impact of leadership in recruitment, retention and burnout at all levels of the departments.  Griffin relates to his time in the military when recruitment was at an all-time high following the Sept. 11 terror attacks to the fire service’s current dilemma of hiring and keeping good firefighters and leaders in the ranks. Burnout comes at all levels, Griffin says, and some of it can be prevented with a new approach to operations.  Griffin ties his time in the military, which involved fire, EMS and search and rescue, to help fire departments examine where they are to tighten up the gaps the fire service has seen with so many leaving the ranks over the last decade.   Related links:  Firehouse Freedom 

Capt. Jared Vermeulen talks with Peter Matthews about his book, “The Modern Fire Officer,” and his approach to being a fire service leadership in current times. The book was born from Vermeulen’s experiences as an officer and from the promotional process, leading him to share practical, modern leadership skills for fire service leaders.   Vermeulen’s goal is to build strong companies by focusing on the members, from their health and wellness to understanding their strengths and weaknesses as a foundation. They talk about the steps to build a strong unit, how to help others through challenging times and why the mindset of customer service is important throughout the chain of command because a firefighter is the officer’s customer, like the citizen is the firefighter’s customer.   They discuss the role of informal leaders, developing and maintaining positive attitudes, helping each other grow and focusing on an overall healthy, positive attitude in the firehouse.   Related links:  The Modern Fire Officer Jared Vermeulen on LinkedIn 

Welcome to the inaugural episode of Beyond the Bugles, where Assistant Chief Jacob Johnson of the Pearland, TX, Fire Department, sits down with Fire Chief Doug Boeker of the Fulshear, TX, Fire Department. Together, they dive into leadership at the chief officer level, covering the do’s and don’ts of command, firehouse culture and the importance of meaningful kitchen-table conversations. The discussion blends professional insight with candid moments, offering both practical takeaways and authentic perspectives from two experienced leaders. This energetic first episode delivers wisdom, laughter and real-world leadership lessons. 

Charleston, WV, Battalion Chief Ryan Pennington joins Peter Matthews to talk about his approach to every shift, reminding himself that he’s a firefighter first and foremost. With that approach, Pennington’s foundation remains rooted in the basics while he has promoted through the fire department. Pennington falls back on the principles he used to launch his training company, The Views from the Jumpseat, reminding listeners that the jumpseat is where all firefighters plant their roots in the fire service. They talk about climbing the career ladder and reacting to the number of podcasts, articles and social media talking calling for better fire service leadership and discuss the recurring challenges faced in departments across the country. How do you start every day as with a firefighter first mentality? Listen to the podcast to find out! Related links: Ryan Pennington’s biography and articles on Firehouse.com Views From The Jumpseat book

Justin Sherwood, who became fire chief in Bemidji, MN, nearly five years ago, reflects on the journey and shares what he learned at both personal and professional levels. Sherwood didn’t plan to follow his father’s footsteps into the fire service and pursued a degree in education, but that changed following the Sept. 11, 2001 terror attacks. In 15 years, Sherwood climbed the ranks and was named fire chief, starting a journey focused on serving the community and his members, while also navigating life. During the podcast, he reflects on the small moments that made big impacts on his life and helped shore up the foundation for the bigger challenges he would face. As the ranks of the fire service continue to see turnover, Sherwood shares advice for the next group of fire service leaders, from a serious personal struggle to daily fire service scenarios. Related links: Justin Sherwood biography and article on Firehouse.com Every Face Has a Name, Every Name Has a Face Am I Out of the Game or in a Different One?

John Lewis and Robert Moran have been teaching basement fire tactics and strategies for nearly two decades, after a series of close call incidents they were involved with. The two, known as Jersey Guys Fire Service Training, discuss tactics, construction and command for below-grade residential fires on this episode.  From the use of the ELBOW acronym for basement fire size-up, to hoseline placement, ventilation tactics and search operations, Lewis and Moran dig into key strategies that can be used to prevent close calls, or worse, during residential basement fires.  Related links:  John Lewis’ biography and article on Firehouse.com  Robert Moran’s biography and article on Firehouse.com   Jersey Guys Fire Service Training on Facebook 

Capt. Sean Eagen joins Peter Matthews to talk about firefighting operations in vacant structures, because many vacant buildings can still be occupied, posing a serious life hazard. Eagen, a 28-year veteran of the Buffalo, NY, Fire Department, shares his experiences and takes listeners through his size-up approach. From cues and clues on suspected vacant homes, Eagen talks about how firefighters should plan to conduct searches, including the use of a VES-like method to limit the number of firefighters on the interior, plus other fireground tactical decision-making ideas. As cold weather in many parts of the country has homeless people seeking protection from the weather, Eagen says now is the time to review your vacant structure policies and talk with crews at the kitchen table. Related links: Sean Eagen’s biography and article on Firehouse.com Truck Tactics: Vacant Properties: Search or Go Defensive?

Peter Matthews is joined by former U.S. Marine Daniel Byrne; T.J. Cullison, who served in the U.S. Army; and A.J. Kehl, who just retired from a career in the U.S. Air Force. They discuss the similarities and differences between serving in the fire service and military and what carried over from their time serving in the U.S. military to the firehouse and what Veterans Day means to them. They offer insight into the various military benefits, from the journeyman program, education and promotional points to other services for veterans, plus a look at mental health, and share the one military lesson that they continue to use today. Related Links: Daniel Byrne’s Firehouse.com bio pages and content A.J. Kehl’s Firehouse.com bio page and content My Rich Uncle: An Informal Guide to Maximizing Your Enlistment

Michael Daley joins Peter Matthews to discuss firefighter training today with a look at training challenges expected over the next five years, including new responses such as electric vehicles, and the abilities and skills news firefighters bring to the job. Daley, a proponent of well-trained and educated firefighters, says firefighters should train to a level or professionalism – whether volunteer or career – to be able to handle whatever they encounter. He discusses what training officers need to do to incorporate historical events into training, how to build a training calendar and how to ensure that members do not lose the drive to train. Related links: Training Doesn't Have Time for Rain Delays Company-Level Training Ideas for all Firefighters Michael Daley’s bio and article on Firehouse.com Fire Service Performance Concepts

Peter Matthews talks with Chief Kristopher Blume about the realities of leading fire departments today, as they evolve quicker than ever and what is driving people away from the fire service in historic numbers. Blume highlights key parts of his recently published book, Carry the Fire: The Crucible of Leadership in the Fire Service and the two discuss the background of his recent Firehouse.com article, “Beyond the Smoke: What Is Driving People Away from the Fire Service?” and what three key factors are causing serious issues int fire department ranks. Related links: Carry the Fire: The Crucible of Leadership in the Fire Service Beyond the Smoke: What Is Driving People Away from the Fire Service? Kristopher Blume’s bio and article on Firehouse.com

Peter Matthews is joined by Eileen Bellew, widow of FDNY Lt. John Bellew, and his daughter, Katreana, to discuss their paths through PTSD since John lost his life during the 2005 Black Sunday fire in the Bronx.  Eileen shares her journey, which began Jan. 23, 2005, when she learned that John was seriously injured after jumping from an apartment building. From being escorted to the hospital, the fire service funeral, memorial services raising four children, Eileen shares what fire departments need to know to assist the survivors.  Katreana, who was only two on Black Sunday, talks about memories of her dad, attending services and how she developed vicarious anxiety as she grew up. Her journey sparked her desire to share the story of Black Sunday and the subsequent trial in the movie Black Sunday: Trial by Fire.  Related links:  Trial by Fire: JohnBellew.com The Firehouse Yak: Jeff Cool – Remembering FDNY’s Tragic Black Sunday 

Peter Matthews talks with Bill Niemann, who spent nearly two decades in the Prince William County, VA, Fire Department Fire Marshal’s Bureau. During that time, Niemann and his team relaunched the department’s arson investigation unit and logged many headline-making arson arrests.  Niemann provides insight into his 17-year assignment in the fire marshal’s bureau and the relaunch of their fire investigation unit, which they mostly built from scratch because there were no investigation standards or policies at the time. From attending the police academy to creating their own processes, Niemann and his small crew handled hundreds of arson fires annually.   He reflects on some close calls and big blazes during his time as a line firefighter and some of the most memorable and impactful fire investigations and making high-profile arrests and how a serial arson case led him to the end of his career.   Related links:  Heavy Fire Showing  Heavy Fire Showing Audio Book 

Peter Matthews talks with Battalion Chief Grant Tinker about the normalization of deviance, often mistaken for complacency, and how deeper in the fire service and carries serious consequences.  In this episode the two discuss how it shows up in day-to-day habits at home or the fire service and can result in dangerous consequences. They talk about crew resource management, pioneered by the aviation industry and adopted by the fire service, and how aviation incidents have prompted headlines and questions about checks and balances in both industry and end-user operations.  Tinker shares real-world examples of the normalization of deviance and the need for accountability and hard discussions to prevent close calls.  Related links:  Mile High Fire Conference  Center for Public Safety Excellence  

Peter Matthews talks with Jeremy Blair and Courtney Hull about a unique program that prepares high school seniors to become firefighters through Waukesha County Technical College in Wisconsin.  The two share how fire departments can better connect with Gen Z recruits by rethinking education and engagement through recruitment. Blair explains why today’s students want to feel part of something bigger and why teaching methods must evolve. Hull offers insight into adolescent brain development and why vulnerability-based trust is essential for building strong future firefighters.  Related links:  Don’t Blame the Lettuce! Developing the Next Generation of First Responders Waukesha County Technical College: Fire and EMS Training Center Plugged In 

Peter Matthews sits down with Assistant Chief Steve Baker to discuss the mental health challenges firefighters face, and the life-changing events of a single day in 2019 that reshaped his journey.  With two decades in emergency services, Baker shares how he reached a breaking point, what he discovered when he took a hard look at the “rocks” weighing down his backpack, and how he began shedding those rocks while rebuilding himself. He outlines five key steps that everyone can use to take care of themselves and his reflection offers valuable lessons for anyone in the fire service who is carrying more than just their gear.  Related links:  The Firehouse Yak: Steve Baker - Pushing Beyond the Status Quo in the Fire Service 

Peter Matthews talks with Battalion Chief Michael Dozier of The Company Officer about the deep-rooted cultural challenges facing today’s fire departments.   Dozier starts by breaking down what “culture” truly means in the fire service and how departments across the country, at every rank, are struggling with communication, trust, and aligning expectations. He explains how key points contribute to cohesive teams, and what firefighters at each rank can do to maintain accountability and strengthen commitment.  The podcast also explores the unwritten rules that influence daily operations, including those that help firefighters succeed—and those that create barriers. Dozier closes by sharing how regional differences, especially in areas like his where many firefighters are transplants, further shape the way culture is built and sustained. 

Peter Matthews sat down with Capt. Ariel “AJ” Jackson to look at his role in developing an officer mentoring and training program for the Anne Arundel County, MD, fire officers.  Jackson, a second-generation firefighter, talks about the night he was promoted and the working fire with entrapment that followed. That fire turned into a career-long learning experience for him in which he partnered with another firefighter to develop a company officer mentoring program that’s been used by the department. He takes listeners through the process and offers insights that can be used by any department.  A veteran of the fire service, Jackson finishes up the podcast with an explanation of why he still attends conferences as a student to continue learning.

Peter Matthews invites author Michael Glore, who is a deputy chief with the Reading, PA, Fire Department, to share his interest in fire service history and how the war stories from the past has shaped today’s fire service.    Glore, who has nearly 40 years in the fire service and has co-authored four fire service history books, explains why firefighters should know their department’s history to help make tactical decisions, but also to understand by certain tactics are understood.  The show is filled with historical nuggets for all listeners from the recent 40th anniversary of firefighter fatality fire in Reading involving a flashover, to an early example of a BLEVE to firefighter cancer. Glore explains how firefighters can capture their history and how to share it with others.  Resources  Pottsville Firefighting Reading Firefighting Schuylkill County Firefighting The Great Memorial Day Fire of 1945 and Other Schuylkill County Disasters Fire Alarm Boxes Silenced in PA Town, For Now 

Peter Matthews sits down with longtime Firehouse contributors John J. Lewis Jr. and Robert Moran, who have been named Firehouse’s Hall of Fame Class of 2025. The two reflect on their fire service careers, Lewis retiring as a lieutenant and Moran as a fire chief.   The two, known as The Jersey Guys, entered the fire service Northern New Jersey and had lengthy careers in both volunteer and career fire services as well as two decades of instructing and writing.   From close calls and the incident that led them to begin teaching firefighters, to advice for new firefighters, those seeking promotions and rising to the rank of chief, they share nuggets from across their career while looking back on major incidents and milestones with their time at Firehouse.com.2  Resources  Jersey Guys Fire Service Training John J. Lewis Firehouse.com contributor page Robert Moran Firehouse.com contributor page 

Peter Matthews sits down with Chief Tom Jenkins to discuss the latest developments with the National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) and what fire departments should expect as NFIRS is phased out in 2026.   Jenkins breaks down how departments can begin the transition, outlines timelines, and how more than a dozen records management systems have already been approved to integrate with NERIS, paving the way for more seamless, platform-based data sharing.  The expanded capabilities of NERIS, include critical time stamps, resource tracking, and a broader range of incident types and actions.   This new data sets allow fire departments to identity emerging trends that they can respond to, including risk reduction strategies, response methods and more. The data, Jenkins says, allows departments to tell their story.  With data integrity so important in 2025, Matthews discusses why that mindset prompted Firehouse to reevaluate our annual run survey publications.  Resources  National Emergency Response Information System NERIS Onboarding Infographic: NERIS Essentials: What You Need to Know Research Corner: NERIS—Firefighting Data in the Digital Age 

Peter Matthews talks with Assistant Chief Steve Baker of the Plymouth, MN, Fire Department about how fire service delivery has evolved in his region.   Baker shares how the transition from volunteer and paid-on-call firefighters to combination and full-time agencies has led to faster responses and more efficient operations. He highlights the role of regionalized training, inter-agency collaboration, and a consistent command system in driving progress.   Baker emphasizes that lean staffing continues to limit departments from reaching their full potential and both current and future leaders need to understand the mandatory overtime and long work hours will take a serious toll on the next generation of the fire service.    Resources  MN Public Safety Agencies Partner for Active Shooter Training 

Peter Matthews talks with Rob Policht, a lieutenant with Passaic, NJ, Fire Department and one of the guys between Flow and Vent, about the state of today’s fire service and how a podcast he was on with a former Navy SEAL changed some of his approach to the fire service.   As a young officer, Policht provides his perspective on bridging the gap across multiple generations in the station. From bringing new members to the crew to understand operations and history, to ensuring all members are engaged in training to build a cohesive unit, Policht says crews need to have trust and respect for each other.  Reflecting on his podcast with U.S. Navy SEAL Drago Dzieran, he talks about the differences and similarities between the firefighters and SEALs, plus the paramilitary approach to fire departments and the SEAL’s thoughts on the fire service.  Resources  Robert Policht’s bio and contributor page   Personality Behind the Profile: Flow and Vent Flow and Vent podcast: Navy Seals and Firefighters with Drago Dzieran Flow and Vent website Flow and Vent Facebook Flow and Vent Instagram Webinar: Mastering SCBA Skills for Firefighters 

Peter Matthews talks with Jacob Gates, a lead instructor at the Ohio Fire Academy, about the need to stay relevant while instructing multiple generations of the fire service and staying up-to-date strategies and tactics.   Gates, who also serves with Mifflin Township Division of Fire in Gahanna, OH and the Falls Township, OH, Fire Department explains some of the changes he has witnessed as teaching styles evolve and recruit/member learning styles change. He shares advice to help the next generation of fire instructors prepare for their roles and why instructors always need to be freshening up their skills.  Gates, who followed in the footsteps of his father, Brent, also addresses family at the station and at home. He explains the importance of prioritizing the importance of your family at home.  Resources  Jacob Gates’ bio and contributor page    

Capt. Joe DeVito talks about the need for added training and an enhanced understanding of thermal imaging cameras (TIC) for firefighters during today’s emergency responses.   DeVito talks about the lack of training for most firefighters, from the basics of fireground operations to rescue and other incidents. They talk about how to overcome the common misconception that a TIC is primarily an officer’s tool and why every member needs to know how to use it. DeVito compares maximizing your TIC to understanding all the apps on an new iPhone.   Switching topics, DeVito talks about being on the job in Florida in an area that’s been hard-hit by hurricanes recently and how that’s impacted the members and the residents they protect. Much of his area was destroyed, so the return to the station after the hurricane required resiliency and a desire to build the neighborhood back up, plus how to take care of the firefighters before, during and after the storms.  Resources  Joe DeVito’s Firehouse.com bio page and article   

Station Design Conference Director Janet Wilmoth and Principal Architect Rob Manns discuss the impact of the Station Design Conference on recent fire station construction projects, and how attendees can maximize what they get out of attending the annual conference focused on fire station designs and construction for new and renovated stations. Wilmoth planned the 11th annual conference, taking place in Glendale, AZ, May 20-22, with a focus on building stations designed to last 50 years in the fast-moving environment of building design, construction materials and technology and new materials. The two explain how the conference is designed for education and time with service providers and why attendees should plans their schedule carefully. Manns, a principal architect with Manns Woodward Studios, explains how attendees can maximize their conversations with speakers, architects, builder and component representatives and peers through networking and coming equipped with questions. For departments who are seeking advice on current or future plans, Wilmoth explains the 1-on-One Sessions pair agencies with architects to look at blue prints for advice on design and layout concepts to ensure the station meets their needs. As the show wraps up, they discuss some of the trends they’ve seen in volunteer fire stations, from the need for sleeping spaces to stations built to transition from volunteer to combination and how understand the future of the organization can save them money in the long run. Resources Station Design Conference Manns Woodward Studios Revamping America's first responder infrastructure – an untapped market for contractors Janet Wilmoth’s Firehouse contributor page Robert Manns’ Firehouse contributor page

Assistant Chief Christopher Zak talks with Peter Matthews about his retirement from the Milford, CT, Fire Department and transition to a new career in Hanahan, SC. He moved to become a training office and has since promoted to assistant chief.   Zak talks about the decision to call an end to his first fire service career and how a Google search took him to South Carolina, plus the conversations and insight he sought from trusted and unknown fire service leaders. After that 700-mile move, Zak found himself in a new department, new city and with a phone void of contacts to help him navigate his duties.   Learn how the leap of faith has led Zak to a renewed sense of commitment to the fire service and why it’s important to look at other agencies if you are ready to move on in the fire service.   Resources  Christopher Zak’s Firehouse.com bio page and article 

Chief Daniel DeYear returns to The Firehouse Yak podcast after talking about the fire service’s approach to safety with a discussion on company officer development based on his workshops.  DeYear digs into decades of leadership lessons from nearly two decades as an officer and chief in Dallas Fire-Rescue, including communication, accountability, trust and support. Many including firefighters and officers, DeYear says, do not understand the officer’s primary role in the fire department.  Listen to learn about DeYear’s opinion of the biggest challenges facing fire officers today, most of which have been a challenge for the last few generations of fire service leaders. He also digs into the debate about being friends with your officers, about top-down and bottom-up communications and how to build a crew based on strengths and weaknesses.    Resources  ChiefDeYear.com  Connect with Daniel DeYear on LinkedIn The Firehouse Yak: Daniel DeYear - 20 LODDs in 144 Days, A Wake-up Call for Firefighter Culture? Hidden Dangers, Hidden Secrets Daniel DeYear’s Firehouse bio and contributions 

Peter Matthews talks with Jeff Cool about the tragedy of Jan. 23, 2005, which was named FDNY’s “Black Sunday” after the department lost two firefighters at a fire in the Bronx and one at a fire in Brooklyn. The Bronx fire left four other firefighters seriously injured, including one who died from the fire six years later.  Cool, a Rescue 3 firefighter, responded a fire in an apartment building that was renovated into a maze of rooms, making firefighter access extremely difficult. When conditions changed and the fire cut them off, six firefighters were forced to jump from the upper floors to escape. He recalls the fire, the tense moments they were trapped and efforts to escape before they all jumped as flames burned over their heads. Since FDNY had taken away personal rescue ropes, they used a rope that cool purchased at Firehouse Expo which he attributed to DiBernardo and he surviving their falls.   He shares their stories about the time in hospital, the long road to recovery and what has happened since his injuries forced him to retire. Since then, the four survivors have taken their messages of training, equipment and hope on the road to inform today’s firefighters of that tragic loss. Cool is one of the instructors with the Lt. Joseph DiBernardo Memorial Fund and helps organize the 9-11 Memorial Golf Outing.  Cool’s son, Jeffrey Cool, Jr., recently got appointed to the FDNY and Cool shares his hopes for the future.   This episode is dedicated to the Lieutenants John G. Bellew and Curtis W. Meyran and firefighter Richard Sclafani who died that day and firefighters Brendan Cawley, Jeff Cool, Joe DiBernardo, and Gene Stolowski were severely injured. DiBernardo, who was promoted to lieutenant, died six years later from his injuries.  Resources  Lt. Joseph DiBernado Memorial Foundation FDNY 9-11 Memorial Golf Outing 

Peter Matthews talks with Andy Starnes about the importance of each person having a personal board of directors who they can reach out to and seek advice from throughout their lives. Starnes stresses why this board is just as important for decisions within the fire service as it is at home and with your family.  While Starnes is known around the world for his efforts to educate firefighters on thermal imaging, this episode focuses on the human side of the firefighter and ensuring members make the right decisions, influenced by trusted friends and advisors. Starnes shares where the concept of the board came from, how to seek out the people you want on your board and how the two-way relationship works.  Listen for advice on how to be a better friend, colleague, firefighter and family member and for tips on how to pull through the tough times.  Resources  Insight Training, LLC Kill the Flashover The Traveler’s Gift Station Design Conference  FireFusion 

Peter Matthews talks with Mike Wisko, the Agency Chief of the Texas Commission on Fire Protection (TCFP) about their role in ensuring firefighter training and equipment and member safety throughout the state’s career fire departments. The two talk about the annual TCFP Firefighter Injury Reports that are mandated training in the state, and some of the trends TCFP has found, including an overall reduction in fireground injuries but an increase in firefighters being burned, plus injuries at the fire that are on the rise. Wisko discusses their policies on PPE and what the impact on non-compliant equipment is on the firefighters and their families. He also shares how the state ensures mandatory training is taking place and the process in which they determine the baseline for annual CE training, plus the at look at the future of the TCFP. Resources  Texas Commission on Fire Protection  TCFP Annual Injury Reports    

Peter Matthews talks with Jake Ryks, a St. Paul, MN, firefighter who was just named Minnesota’s Firefighter of the Year, along with Mason Conlin, for their efforts to rescue seven people from an early morning house fire. Ryks credits ongoing training and the desire to know your job with the herculean rescue and medical treatment efforts by firefighters at the Jan. 3, 2024 house fire.  Ryks, who was working in another company that shift, takes you step-by-step through the response, arrival and rescue efforts by St. Paul firefighters and explains why continued training played a pivotal role in decision-making that morning.   He also talks about becoming a trainer on hazardous materials, his work with The Haz Mat Guys and his new podcast launch, Hazard Class, in which he talks with firefighters on a variety of topics.  Resources  The Haz Mat Guys Hazard Class Podcast  All Things Hazard Class   ‘Can’t thank you enough’: St. Paul firefighters who saved kids from house fire receive awards   ‘Humbling beyond words’: St. Paul firefighters open up about fire   This Month in Fire History – December  

Peter Matthews talks with Victor Stagnaro talks about taking over the CEO role at the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), which he assumed last year, after more than two decades of having Ron Siarnicki create and lead the organization tapped to honor America’s fallen firefighters while taking care of their survivors.    Stagnaro highlights several of the programs that NFFF offers, including the annual Fallen Firefighter Memorial Weekend, training programs aimed to prevent firefighter deaths, injuries and provide mental health support while offering peer-to-peer support for LODD incidents. For the families of those who have died, and their organizations, Stagnaro looks at the memorable and meaning impacts they have on survivors.     They discuss what the NFFF is working on today, what to expect from the 20th anniversary of the Firefighter Life Safety Summit and how firefighters can get involved with them. Whether it’s supporting or organizing a stair climb, attending training or working at the annual memorial weekend, Stagnaro shares how each level of involvement humbles firefighters.  Resources  National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Fire Hero Learning Network Ways to Help First Responder Center for Excellence NFFF YouTube NFFF 9/11 Memorial Stair Climbs Local Assistance State Team Memorial Weekend Giving Tuesday  

Peter Matthews talks with Scott Richardson about how he manages the special operations and line support teams for South Metro Fire Rescue, which covers over 300 square miles of diverse terrain in Colorado with myriad of unique response scenarios. Under Richardson’s command is the department’s technical rescue resources, wildland and ARFF crews, dispatch and apparatus and equipment maintenance teams. Richardson explains how each group ensures they have a dedicated command and training staff so each discipline is trained to handle a scenario that they may be called to, including the many disciplines of technical rescue. He talks about the budgets process, as well as ensuring each group had the equipment they need to respond. When it comes to command technical rescue incidents, Richardson shares his perspectives on the unique challenges of these changing incidents and how they not only respond to fire and rescue emergencies but coordinate with law enforcement and other agencies to ensure life safety. Resources  South Metro Fire Rescue website  South Metro Fire Rescue YouTube   

Peter Matthews talks with Daniel DeYear, a recently retired deputy chief from Dallas Fire-Rescue, about his work involving LODD investigations in Texas and how it relates to the often contentious discussions on firefighter safety and fire service culture.   DeYear outlines a 144-day period in which his team investigated nearly 20 firefighter deaths – all from fireground operations – including the West, TX, explosion and Houston’s Southwest Inn fire. During his career in Dallas, he lost almost two dozen colleagues in the line of duty, including his rookie school partner and one of his academy instructors, all of which has led DeYear to connect the dots and champion efforts to ensure those patterns are reduced.   DeYear discusses why firefighters tend to focus on being aggressive on the fireground, without being aggressive with education and knowledge building to lead you to make the right decisions.  Resources  Hidden Dangers, Hidden Secrets  Daniel DeYear’s Firehouse bio and contributions   ChiefDeYear.com  Connect with Daniel DeYear on LinkedIn  FireFusion  Station Design Conference 

Peter Matthews talks with Gilt Edge, TN, Fire Chief Brandon Fletcher about the challenges facing today’s volunteer fire service, plus an innovative program to help retain existing members.   Fletcher outlines some of the top factors that are impacting the rolls and operations of departments today, including a dive into volunteer-focused leadership, politics and personalities and how to keep members engaged, whether on calls or training. He digs into several challenges that he’s seen firsthand and has learned from others. He goes on to share a program he implemented that allows for grant funding to bring members to national training conferences that not only improves their knowledge and networking but serves as a reward for their dedication to the department.  Fletcher also talks about his experiences as a family escort for the annual Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend in Emmitsburg, MD. He has had the honor of escorting the families of the fallen throughout the memorial weekend events for three years, and he explains how that has impacted him as a fire chief, ensuring that his members do all they can to stay safe.  Resources  Volunteer View: Alternative Funding Sources to Enhance Department Operations  Volunteer View: Retention Through Leadership  Brandon Fletcher’s Firehouse contributor page  Connect with Brandon Fletcher on LinkedIn  FireFusion  Station Design Conference  National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Weekend   

Peter Matthews talks with Daniel Byrne, Laura Konor and Ben Shearer about new approaches to Community Risk Reduction (CRR) and fire prevention in 2024, and what has changed with public outreach since COVID-19. Byrne is an assistant chief with the Burton, SC, Fire District, Kondor is fire safety coordinator for the North Charleston, SC, Fire Department and Shearer is community risk reduction specialist with the Pasco, WA, Fire Department.  They discuss how COVID-19 impacted the fire service’s reach in-person reach, whether through in-school visits, open houses, or community events and how that created a shift to digital learning. Since then, some departments have had more requests than ever from the community, forcing them to select the groups they meet with to talk about life safety.  The group shares advice for Fire Prevention Week success and year-round outreach concept that help fire departments connect with their communities at multiple levels. The three talk about how they have partnered with organizations and used fire department data to target education to certain groups, and close out the show with CRR wins and losses from their views.  Ben Shearer Laura Kondor Daniel Byrne Resources  Fire Prevention Week  

Peter Matthews talks with Capt. Ragan Underwood from the St. George, LA, Fire Department about a close call he had during a training burn where he was caught the flow path and was trapped in the home when the incident commander radioed for crews to leave the structure.  Underwood, a veteran instructor and member of the Insight Training cadre, was taking part in a live fire training at a home in Illinois when he sent crews out of the home and went to cool down the fire before exiting. The fire took off and he was caught in the fire and got disoriented and suffered from exposure to serious heat around his hood and SCBA facepiece.   While he was trying to find his way out and could hear the RIT crew making progress toward his location, command pulled crews out of the house saying it was too far gone, leaving Underwood in the home as conditions worsened. At that moment, his life changed, and he reflects on what happened after that.  Underwood shares how careful communications and breathing techniques can help calm a firefighter during a mayday, and what officers should know about this situation. He explains how this incident changed his approach to training and operations and what he shares with those back home and when he’s on the road teaching.  Resources  FireFusion 

Peter Matthews talks with Brian Gettemeier, a captain with the Cottleville Fire Protection District in St. Charles County, MO, about fires in warehouses, including sprawling ecommerce facilities that are being built in communities large and small.  Gettemeier began instructing and writing on the topic of the dangers and challenges on warehouse fires after seeing several fires in such facilities that caused multi-million dollar loses and smaller fires that were contained by sprinklers as fires break out in rural and urban areas.  They talk about the dangers revolving around rack storage, the heavy fire loads and types of products that are being stored, worker and firefighter life safety and accountability and other tactical considerations, including initial and long-term resources, apparatus placement and the need for a strong water supply.  Gettemeier also looks at the role of the initial incident commander, the need for a 360-degree size-up and establishing an in-depth incident command post if the scope of the incident requires it. In order to prepare for such incidents, the departments need to begin preplanning and walk-throughs as soon as possible.  He also touches on the need understanding a department’s liability when these facilities come to you community, which often begins with the fire chief or fire marshal starting the discussions from the early stages related to building and life safety codes.  Resources  Brian Gettemeier’s Firehouse bio page & articles   FM Global Firefighter Training   FM Global Fireground Checklist   FireFusion 

Peter Matthews talks with Capt. Sean Eagen from the Buffalo, NY, Fire Department about his role as a company officer and commander, plus how today’s busy fire service can stay motivated through tough times. Eagen shares leadership advice and crew management ideas, including the ability to communicate with groups across multiple platforms. Eagen, coming from a busy city in the urban rust belt of America, talks about the ways to keep firefighters motivated, despite equipment troubles, city politics and budgets and busy shifts. Despite the challenges, he reminds firefighters they signed up to do the job, no matter what the situation they face. He shares tips on how to create training opportunities and pass along streets smarts, whether it’s 1 p.m. or 2 a.m., especially to help the large number of newer firefighters on the street engaged and educated.   Resources: Sean Eagen’s Firehouse bio page & articles Today on Firehouse Podcast – Episode 3: Maydays & More with Sean Eagen

Peter Matthews talks with Ocean City Volunteer Fire Company Chief James “Jay” Jester about how to survive the promotion to company officer. They talk about the common and surprising challenges news officers face and how to prepare for the new rank, where their responsibility grows as they supervise crews.   Jester shares how officers, whether from volunteer or career fire companies, become an integral part of the department’s structure both in the station and on the fireground. He outlines some of the most important traits new officers should have, skills they should already be well versed in and what key elements they can study to prepare for on their leadership journey.   The transition from buddy to boss is explored, often causing some unexpected challenges for new officers and he shares advice on how to move past that situation, plus understanding the responsibility an officer has to their firefighter’s families.   The two also talk about mental health for firefighters and the officer’s role in monitoring their members, plus mayday training and the importance of setting a list of situations that require a mayday being called.   Resources  James Jester’s Firehouse bio page & articles   From Buddy to Boss by Chase Sargent    

Peter Matthews talks with Reading, PA, firefighter Jesiah Newsome about the importance of keeping training both motivational and inspiring, especially for younger firefighters. They also discuss how a big hurdle in today’s training is the ego of instructors, and how they can lead to negative experiences.   Newsome explains the need to create a positive learning environment from rookie school, throughout their career. He is also a deputy chief with the Blandon Fire Company in Berks County, PA, and both a state and national fire service, sharing his experiences from each role on this podcast.  He approaches the fire service with the manta, “You can either bitch about it, or fix it” and explains how you can move yourself and the department forward by ensuring you have the desire to learn, and help others strengthen their skillsets.  Newsome says those who aspire to have a meaningful career, whether volunteer and career, need to short- and long-term goals and offers insight into his goals to provide listeners with concepts they can adapt.  Resources  Frank Leeb’s Firehouse Expo 2022 Keynote Address 

Peter Matthews talks with Chad Costa about his capstone research on the impact of single-role paramedics in fire-based EMS systems. Costa, an assistant chief with the Petaluma, CA, Fire Department talks about the pros and cons of the highly debated topic to help fire departments manage responses as EMS call volumes soar. They discuss how single-role vs. dual-role medic positions function, plus the varying costs and the overall impact on firefighter-focused training for crews who also staff ambulances.  Costa explains that, as he started the research, he thought the move to a single-role was a no-brainer but said the findings of his research changed his outlook. The show explorers the benefits of having fire-based EMS systems where service delivery is the priority, not the cost - on both the personnel and the department. Resources:  ChadCosta.org  EFO Capstone: Dual-Role Vs. Single-Role Staffing Models  Chad Costa on LinkedIn  Chad Costa’s Firehouse Articles & Podcasts 

Peter Matthews talks with Western Berks, PA, Fire Commissioner Jared Renshaw about this work to educate fire chiefs about their role in politics and how they can successfully navigate city hall.  Renshaw, who has served in departments on the East and West coasts, has been writing and teaching on the topic of fire service politics, helping leaders navigate the confusing and challenging paths where the two merge, and impact each other.  With many headlines of fire chiefs not being successful in their role, Renshaw warns how relationships and a thorough understanding of the political process can make or break a fire chief. He offers advice to listeners on who to connect with, how to establish and maintain that relationship and how to leverage it for growth in your department.  The two also discuss data, how to produce reports that matter to your supervisors, and a look at management maydays that chiefs can encounter.   Resources:  Leadership Lessons: Management Mayday  Live to Fight Another Day  Answering the Call to City Hall 

Peter Matthews talks with Robert “Butch” Cobb and Paul Drennan, both retired deputy chiefs from Jersey City, NJ, about post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and the importance of peer support teams.   Cobb, a veteran of the Vietnam War, opens up about a moment that triggered flashbacks of his time in Vietnam, and how it led his life into a spiral until he began meeting with a doctor. This was the beginning of Cobb’s 20-plus year journey of therapy from the city and the Veterans Administration as he navigated a busy career, including multiple close calls and an immediate response to the 9/11 terror attacks in New York City. He explains why he brought this to light years after retirement, after hearing many stories and wanting to give advice to those who have walked in those shoes.  Drennan, who also suffered from PTSD, helped the Jersey Fire Department start their Peer Support Team, which has served as a model for departments around the state. He talks about the importance of peer-to-peer support so that it allows firefighters to be open with people who understand their stressors.   As part of Mental Health Awareness Month, Cobb and Drennan talk about the need for seeking help early, how to start a Peer Support Team and what it means to take care of bother and sister firefighters as soon as stress and PTSD are evident.  Resources:  Jersey City Peer Support Team  Butch Cobb on Instagram  First Responder Center for Excellence  Everyone Goes Home  Station Design Conference  International Association of Fire Fighters   National Volunteer Fire Council First Responder Help Line  International Association of Fire Chiefs  Firehouse.com Coverage of Firefighter Mental Health  Firehouse.com Coverage of Firefighter PTSD  

Peter Matthews talks with former Minnesota fire chiefs Ken Prillaman and Jerry Streich about their mission trips to Africa and later, Kenya, as part of this year’s International Firefighters Day coverage. Prillaman and Streich traveled multiple times to Liberia in West Africa.    Prillaman shares how the citizens he protected in Brooklyn Park, MN, connected him with officials in Liberia, which sparked multiple trips to bring basic and advanced fire and EMS equipment while providing command and tactics training. They started with an assessment of the country’s fire protection where they found one fire engine protecting a country the size of Ohio and firefighters using palm leaves and sand to douse fires. They had no PPE, little equipment, and no medical supplies.   The two reflect on the desire of the Liberian firefighters to learn which lead to life-long relationships and a better prepared and equipped fire service. From equipment maintenance and firefighting tactics to how people treat each other, the Prillaman and Streich shared how this experience changed their lives.  Resources:  Fire Rescue Alliance  Five Trumpet Advisors  Shift Happens Journal   Station Design Conference  FireFusion 

Peter Matthews talks with Harrisburg, PA, Battalion Chief Brian Bastinelli about how firefighters and officers can show up for the job every day, and provides insight into his helmet camera videos posted on YouTube.   Coming from a busy fire department, Bastinelli began capturing helmet camera videos to use for internal training and began editing them for all the fire service to watch and learn.  He shares how the videos captured made him aware of auditory exclusion on the fireground and how that’s improved him as an incident commander.  The two talk about showing up for the job, and what that really means. Bastinelli says both firefighters and officers have a role in that mindset and explains how officers can ensure their members are ready, including the need to develop relationships to understand their needs and strengths   Resources:  Brian Bastinelli on YouTube  Brian Bastinelli on LinkedIn  Brian Bastinelli on Instagram  The Alchemist  

Peter Matthews talks with former Fire Chief Jerry Streich about his work to help fire departments grow through the use of organizational development, plus a discussion on the recruitment and retention (R&R) programs he’s been involved with, including his upcoming Firehouse Station Design Conference program, “How Station Design Can Enhance Recruitment and Retention.” Streich served as a fire chief in Minnesota’s Twin Cities region, and they discuss key myths and barriers in today’s fire service R&R, noting the time spent on the efforts is less than needed, while discussing leadership’s role in moving the dial forward. He relates a volunteer fire chief to holding a debit card on their members’ time to only withdraw the time, or hours, as needed. The two discuss staffing models, funding/grants to help departments – both career and volunteer – grow their membership base. Highlighting part of his upcoming Station Design Conference class, Streich explains how elements in fire station design elements can help attract new members and retain existing firefighters. Wrapping up the show, Streich talks about his newly released “Shift Happens Journal” - a series of books designed to help firefighters, officers and chiefs, along with EMS, healthcare and law enforcement take notes from their shifts, assess their mental health and note key points for discussion and follow up. Resources:  Can Station Design Enhance Recruitment and Retention?  Capstone  Minnesota Firefighter Initiative (MnFIRE)  USFireHire  Shift Happens Journals  Station Design