First Due Table Talk Podcast

Can you build a fire department from scratch? In Episode #04 of First Due TableTalk, Fire Chief Darrel Donatto shares how Jupiter Fire Rescue is doing exactly that and what it takes to build culture, leadership, and accountability from day one. From hiring 90 firefighters to defining values before the first call, this episode breaks down the real process behind creating a modern fire department.

What is ISO and why does it matter to fire departments and the communities they serve? In this episode of First Due Table Talk, Mike Morash explains how ISO Public Protection Classification (PPC) ratings are calculated and how they influence insurance rates, fire department operations, training, water supply, and communications systems. Learn how departments can improve their ISO score and why ISO is truly a community-wide effort.

Amanda Champion joins us to discuss the state of Fire & EMS training, records management systems, and learning management systems. We dig into the real-world challenges training officers face when building training programs and documenting performance. We look at how artificial intelligence will inform training focus in the future.

In Episode 01 of the First Due Table Talk Podcast, we sit down with Craig Weinschenk, Director of Research at UL Research Institutes. Fire Safety Research Institute, also known as NERIS. Craig reflects on the historical transition from NFIRS to NERIS and what that shift means for the fire service. He shares insights on what it takes to make a successful transition, how research supports better decision making, and what fire service leaders should consider when navigating change. This episode focuses on leadership, preparation, and using data to guide operational improvements. Subscribe for more conversations that matter and future episodes of First Due Table Talk.