PODCAST · education
Spiked Out
by The Journeyman
Welcome to the Spiked Out Podcast - your go-to for real stories, real people, and real insight from the wildland fire world. Brought to you by The Journeyman, we interview seasoned pros, share education, tips on getting certified, landing jobs, and making the most of the season. Whether you're already on the line or just getting started, we've got you covered. Tune in and get Spiked Out with us.
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Two Guys Tackle the Biggest Issue Nobody's Addressing In Wildland Fire
Wildland fire admin is still way too hard. Between scattered job boards, paper CTRs, certs in three folders, and a new login for every crew you've ever rostered with — there's no reason it should still feel this messy. In this rapid-fire FAQ, we sit down to clear up exactly what The Journeyman is, what you get with a free wildland firefighter profile, and why we refuse to charge people just to look at jobs.We also get into the parts most folks don't expect: trainings and events, season tracking, digital shift tickets, crew time reports, and an offline mode that still works when you're a hundred miles from cell service.Then we tackle the questions we hear nonstop from firefighters and business owners:– Can other companies see my roster?– Are you selling my data?– What's public, what's private, and who controls it?– How does multi rostering actually work?– What does the premium profile unlock for incident tracking?We walk through how permissions work, why incognito mode puts visibility back in the user's hands, and how phantom profiles let companies track personnel without forcing every firefighter into the platform.For business owners, we break down how The Journeyman functions as full wildland fire business management software — certifications, documents, equipment, inventory, incidents, and cleaner handoffs when a manager is covering multiple fires or an owner goes down mid-season. Continuity matters, and the patchwork of spreadsheets and group texts isn't cutting it.If you've got questions about anything we covered, shoot us an email, give us a call, or text us — text is probably the fastest. We'll get you taken care of.Visit Our Websitehttps://livetjm.com/Find The Journeyman App here:Google Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.livetjm.thejourneyman&pli=1Apple App Store:apps.apple.com/us/app/tjm-the-journeyman/id6503902863#WildlandFire #WildlandFirefighter #TheJourneyman #FireSeason #WildlandFireJobs #FireBusiness #WildlandFireApp[00:00:00] Free Profile And Job Board[00:04:40] More Than Hiring Connections[00:10:16] Multi Rostering And Incognito Mode[00:20:42] Free Versus Premium Firefighter[00:26:14] When A Manager Goes Down[00:31:11] Competing Tools And AI Onboarding[00:36:47] Checklists Expansion And Wrap Up
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29
What Happens When You Train Rope Rescue With No Anchors?
Training rope rescue in the Utah desert sounds extreme — until you realize it's the best way to actually learn. No trees, limited anchors, and unforgiving terrain force you to build clean, redundant systems and understand why they work. That's exactly why we keep coming back to Hanksville for our annual REMS training with Prevail Rescue Solutions.In this episode, we break down what a full week of desert rope rescue training looks like on the ground — from day-one cobwebs to day-four momentum — and why the night slot canyon run has become our favorite confidence test for the whole crew.🪢 IN THIS EPISODE:Why limited anchors make better riggersNight slot canyon travel as a team-building toolHow reps on shoddy anchors actually build real confidencePatient packaging details that matter when it's dark and everyone's tiredWhat we like (and question) about the KOBUS RollUP LitterMarlow Tactical rope impressions and strength talkHow multi-day scenarios sharpen communication and leadershipWhat we're tracking from NWSA and WEMS conferencesVIPER ordering changes and REMS typing questions heading into fire seasonWhy The Journeyman is more than a recruiting tool — and how teams use it for resource tracking, shift tickets, and season history🔥 CONNECT WITH PREVAIL RESCUE SOLUTIONS:You can reach Brian and the Prevail Rescue team directly through the app.📲 SUBSCRIBE for weekly wildland fire content. If this episode helped you think differently about training, gear, or the coming season, share it with your crew and leave a review so more wildland firefighters and medical teams can find the show.Find The Journeyman App here:Google Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.livetjm.thejourneyman&pli=1Apple App Store:apps.apple.com/us/app/tjm-the-journeyman/id6503902863Visit Our Websitelivetjm.com/homeKOBUS RollUP Litterhttps://www.narescue.com/Hill People Gearhttps://www.hillpeoplegear.com/Prevail Rescue Solutionshttps://www.prevailrescue.com/[00:00:00] Why Train Where There Are No Trees[00:03:55] Testing The COBUS Litter System[00:06:27] New Rope Options And Strength[00:14:52] Conferences And Big Industry Changes[00:23:10] Track Your Season Then Get Back To Work
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The $40K Letter Every Wildfire Contractor Fears (And How To Avoid It)
That sinking feeling when a state letter says you owe tens of thousands of dollars is not rare, it is the hidden tax on running a small business across state lines. We sit down with the Caputo Group to unpack why wildfire contractors and mobile EMS teams get hit so hard by multi-state payroll compliance, workers’ compensation requirements, HR law changes, and safety regulations. When the work is dangerous and time-sensitive, you should not be forced to choose between guessing and paying attorney rates just to understand basic admin.You will also hear why being present at industry events like NWSA matters for education and advocacy, plus why transparency on cost and a non-pushy onboarding process can make or break trust. If you are tired of admin stealing time from training, operations, and growth, this conversation gives you a clear framework for evaluating payroll and HR outsourcing options. Subscribe, share this with a business owner who needs it, and leave a review with the biggest compliance question you want answered next.Find The Journeyman App here:Google Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.livetjm.thejourneyman&pli=1Apple App Store:apps.apple.com/us/app/tjm-the-journeyman/id6503902863Visit Our Websitelivetjm.com/homeFind Caputo Group here:https://www.caputo-group.com/[00:00:00] When You Are Not Sure[00:03:44] Multi State Rules And Surprise Bills[00:06:22] What A PEO Actually Is[00:15:52] PEO Versus Payroll Providers[00:21:33] Why They Show Up At NWSA[00:25:33] Transparency On Cost And Support[00:31:51] Free Quotes And Final Takeaways
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What Does Better Wildland Medical Care Cost And Who Decides It
John of Backcountry Medics gets specific about capability, not just labels. What’s the real operational difference between Type 1 ALS and Type 2 ALS? Why does vehicle extrication keep coming up when we talk about firefighter fatality risk from auto accidents and cardiac events? We also dig into why assumptions like “the local structure department can handle it” can fall apart in remote wildland settings where time, tools, and staffing are never guaranteed.From there, we zoom out to what actually raises the bar: better MedL education, more transparency and accountability across contractors, and smarter planning between REMS teams so complementary gear and staffing show up when a single patient turns into three. We swap hard earned lessons from long field care and backcountry rope rescue, where lightweight systems and real experience beat overloaded packs and textbook answers.If you care about REMS, wildland fire medical care, UTV based response, rope rescue, or incident medical planning, this one is for you. Subscribe, share this with a teammate, and leave a review so more people ordering and delivering care can find it.Find Backcountry Medics here:https://backcountrymedics.org/Find Backcountry Instagram here:https://www.instagram.com/backcountry_medics?igsh=MTZsMTB3ZnNyMzgxMQ%3D%3DFind The Journeyman App here:Google Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.livetjm.thejourneyman&pli=1Apple App Store:apps.apple.com/us/app/tjm-the-journeyman/id6503902863Visit Our Websitelivetjm.com/home[00:00:00] The Viper Transition Problem[00:07:59] Why NWSA Conference Matters[00:15:07] Real Rescues And Rope Systems[00:18:03] Staffing Standards And Team Coordination[00:19:59] Hiring Bar And Where To Apply
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The New DEA "Thing" And What It Means For Wildland Fire EMS
A firefighter gets crushed by a falling tree miles from a road. A medic knows exactly how to control the pain and protect the patient’s body from spiraling stress, but the medication that makes it possible can’t legally cross the next state line. That’s not a hypothetical, it’s the operational problem we’re staring at after a new DEA interstate rule tightened how controlled substances can travel with EMS teams.We sit down with Joe Decker from Remote Medical Rescue and Dan Blaul from All Terrain Rescue to explain how REMS teams support wildland fire operations, why remote rescue is fundamentally different from city EMS, and what “hours of patient care in the woods” really looks like. We unpack the rule change, the cost and brick and mortar hurdles tied to multi state DEA registration, and why rapid deployments across the West don’t fit neatly into the current compliance model.Then we get blunt about consequences: pain management, ketamine, narcotics, and benzodiazepines are not luxuries when you’re packaging a femur fracture, treating a seizure far from a hospital, or managing critical procedures in an austere environment. We also talk about moral injury for providers forced to watch suffering they could normally relieve, and why this could push the standard of care backward for firefighter safety and patient outcomes.If you’re a firefighter, medic, medical director, or someone who cares about wildfire medical response, listen, share this with your crew, and help raise the volume with decision makers. Subscribe, leave a review, and tell us what change would protect patients fastest?Find the article here:https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6301399/Find The Journeyman here:https://livetjm.com/Find Minuteman EMS here:https://www.minutemanems.com/Find Remote Medical Rescue here:https://www.remotemedicalrescue.com/Find All Terrain Rescue here:https://www.allterrainrescue.org/Blog 1https://www.livetjm.com/blog/LIS4U8mscxKpEjHicSGqBlog 2https://www.livetjm.com/blog/7NQcizXnQrwTkJJrmaFe[00:00:00] Moral Injury From Untreated Pain[00:03:00] What REMS Teams Actually Do[00:06:10] The New DEA Interstate Rule[00:09:55] When Pain Control Prevents Death[00:12:25] Real World Scenarios Without Narcotics[00:16:12] Why Fixing This Takes Time[00:20:40] How To Help And Where To Connect
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No Code, Muay Thai & Real Skills
College costs $200K+ and 4 years. Here's what you can build instead for less money and more capability.Part 2 with Maxim Smith diving into practical cycles from The Preparation: no-code fluency that lets you ship real products, Muay Thai training in Thailand that builds discipline and fight composure, and real-world readiness skills that make you harder to break.What we cover:The "Hacker" Cycle: No Code = Real LeverageNot cyberpunk - it's AI-assisted tools that ship working products fastBuilding custom CRMs and websites with natural languageAutomating content workflows without writing codeHow small teams compete with big companies using AI infrastructureResilience Without ParanoiaSimple, realistic prepping: food, water, heat, off-grid communicationWhy fragile systems require capable individualsBecoming more useful when things breakShooting as CapabilityBuilding respect, calm, and competenceUseful for hunting, defense, and confidence under pressureSafe, structured learning that removes fearTroubleshooting & First Principles ThinkingMindset borrowed from aviation maintenanceHow to isolate root causes and solve complex problemsBecoming invaluable in work and lifeMuay Thai Block in Thailand4 hours/day, 6 days/week focused trainingRebuilding endurance, discipline, composure in a fightWhy hard physical training compounds everything elseTechnical Ropes & Rescue TrainingStacking capability layers for emergenciesSkills that hold in real situationsBook Sales, Marketing & What's NextReal numbers from launching The PreparationWomen's preparation track tailored for real needsEMT skills, REMS, and staying sharp off-seasonHow AI will shape the next decadeFind The Journeyman App here:Google Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.livetjm.thejourneyman&pli=1Apple App Store:apps.apple.com/us/app/tjm-the-journeyman/id6503902863Visit Our Websitelivetjm.com/homeFind Maxim Smith here:https://www.maximsmith.com/[00:00:00] The "Hacker" Cycle Explained[00:04:10] Survival Basics And Prepping Mindset[00:08:20] CQB, Shooting Skills, And Confidence[00:14:00] Becoming More Capable In A Risky World[00:18:30] A Women's Prep Book And Self-Defense[00:24:00] Building TJM Tools With AI[00:26:20] EMT Skills, Ropes, And REMS Training
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Autonomy Without Debt
What if the most valuable four years of your life weren't spent in a classroom, but stacking skills, shipping value, and building real businesses?We break down The Preparation - a structured framework that replaces drift with momentum through 16 focused cycles. Each cycle delivers a hard skill, body of knowledge, and layer of confidence you can bank on. No debt required.What we cover:The Framework: 16 Cycles Over 4 YearsHow anchor courses (Muay Thai, heavy equipment, private pilot, sailing) pair with reading and online courseworkCompounding effect: each cycle builds on the lastGoal isn't novelty - it's earning leverageThe Entrepreneur CycleSimple benchmark: create legal entity, craft clear offer, land one sale in 3 monthsReal example: agricultural drone seeding business that seeded 10 acres in under 45 minutesMarketing abroad, legal setup, turning personal needs into paid servicesHard Skills That PayMuay Thai training in ThailandHeavy equipment operationPrivate pilot licenseSailing certificationDrone operation and agricultural servicesEach one opens doors and income streamsFor Veterans & Career SwitchersGI Bill-eligible programs: EMT training, pilot schools, heavy equipment coursesHow military soft skills (leadership, integrity, composure) translate to entrepreneurshipBuilding autonomy without debtTravel as EducationThailand, South Africa, Chile - expanding perspective and sharpening judgmentLearning by doing in different contextsCultural immersion that builds adaptabilityWhy This WorksCycle stacking = spot opportunities fasterAct with clarity, never feel pigeonholedBuild skills that compound over timeCreate multiple income streamsGraduate debt-free with real businessesThe Bottom Line:This isn't anti-education - it's a structured alternative for those who want autonomy, skills, and entrepreneurial capability without the debt. College works for some paths (medicine, law, engineering). This is for those who want to build differently.Find The Journeyman App here:Google Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.livetjm.thejourneyman&pli=1Apple App Store:apps.apple.com/us/app/tjm-the-journeyman/id6503902863Visit Our Websitelivetjm.com/homeFind Maxim Smith here:https://www.maximsmith.com/[00:00:00] The Mindset Of Lifelong Preparation[00:05:31] Skill Cycles And Global Learning[00:11:45] Building A Drone Seeding Business[00:18:02] Stacking Skills For Opportunity[00:21:12] Veterans, GI Bill, And Transition Paths
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Quiet Competence Wins: How Contractor Medics Build Trust Without Swagger
Ever wonder why some contractor medics get looped into the crew's plan while others end up alone on a ridge?It's all about trust. We break down the real mechanics of earning credibility on the fireline—and how quiet competence, not loud swagger, sets you up for the right role when it counts.What we cover:Making the Jump: City Fire to ContractorAdmin fears, check-in, and demob mysteries solvedWhat a solid contractor company actually provides (binder, support, purchasing)How to choose a company that has your backBuilding Credibility Without the PatchIntroducing yourself at briefing (what to say, what not to say)Using Avenza maps to align placement with crew leadsPositioning your rig for highest-risk work = faster response timeWhy 5 minutes with each crew lead can flip you from outsider to trusted assetSetting Boundaries With RespectWhy medics belong where people work, not miles from actionHow to push back on "safety" requests that put you off-missionSaying no with respect and clear rationaleField Gear That Actually Improves Long ShiftsInstant coffee that helpsPocket wash that removes grime fastSmall items that solve two problems, add no weightLiving the Dirtbag Adventure LifeLow-cost adventures, ice climbs, and navigation skill-buildingFastest Known Time attempt on the Mickelson TrailBuilding grit and judgment without big budgetsSimplifying the PaperworkDigital shift tickets = fewer demob headachesHow to reduce rewrites and admin stressMore time for training, scouting helispots, scanning hazardsThe Bottom Line:If you're moving from structure to wildland contracting or trying to elevate your presence as a single resource, this is your field guide. Prepare before you arrive, communicate like time matters, pack smart, and protect your role with calm authority.Find The Journeyman App here:Google Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.livetjm.thejourneyman&pli=1Apple App Store:apps.apple.com/us/app/tjm-the-journeyman/id6503902863Visit Our Websitelivetjm.com/homeUndercover Dirtbag Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/undercoverdirtbags?igsh=bWl6cGU1Yms4bXVm[00:00:00] First-Time Contractor Nerves[00:05:20] Earning Trust As A Line Medic[00:10:20] Speaking Up About Safety And Role[00:16:00] Undercover Dirtbags Story[00:18:20] Affordable Adventure Mindset
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How a Structure Firefighter Found a Way Out Through Wildland
What happens when 80% of fire calls are EMS—and it starts breaking you?We sit down with a structure firefighter Matt Emrich who chased the dream of real fire, got buried in nonstop EMS and critical calls, and eventually hit a breaking point that led to PTSD treatment, a career pivot, and a new path through wildland REMS.What we cover:The Structure Fire RealityGrowing up around fire, early training burns, chasing ladders and linesSeattle's Medic One system: thin ALS coverage, fast decisions, high stakesRapid City station life: tight crews, busy downtown house, real camaraderieThe modern truth: ~80% EMS with a black cloud of critical callsWhen the Job Starts Breaking YouSleepless shifts, divorce, and the morning on the edgeMaking the call to a firefighter-specific PTSD programLeadership that stepped up: time off, pay coverage, zero judgmentTreatment doesn't erase scars, but it rewires the path forwardBuilding a New PathStarting a tree-climbing business for autonomy and balanceDiscovering REMS and line medic opportunities in wildland fireSeasonal deployments that pay well and let you choose your assignmentsHow Structure Firefighters Can Deploy to WildlandRed card requirements (S-130, S-190, basic fitness)EMT or paramedic license opens REMS and line medic rolesHow to approach your admin about deploymentsAligning with multiple contractors increases opportunitiesR&R fills: 2-4 day stints when crews need reliefBest timing: mid-August to mid-September (peak season)Communication habits that keep opportunities comingThe Bottom Line:You can love structure fire and still need a break. Wildland REMS gives you autonomy, better pay, seasonal work, and a chance to use your medical skills in a different environment. Protect your health, keep your credentials, and design a career that actually lasts.Find The Journeyman App here:Google Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.livetjm.thejourneyman&pli=1Apple App Store:apps.apple.com/us/app/tjm-the-journeyman/id6503902863Visit Our Websitelivetjm.com/homeUndercover Dirtbag Instagramhttps://www.instagram.com/undercoverdirtbags?igsh=bWl6cGU1Yms4bXVm[00:00:00] Early Fire Service Beginnings[00:06:45] Choosing Paramedic School And EMS Reality[00:10:45] Rapid City: Crews, Call Volume, And Culture[00:15:36] Burnout, PTSD, And Seeking Help[00:20:32] Life After The Department: Trees And REMS[00:26:20] R&R Opportunities And Seasonal Timing
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The Pack Test Isn't Enough: What It Really Takes for Steep Terrain, Altitude & Smoke
Think passing the pack test means you're ready? It's just the floor, not the ceiling.Austin Womack from Rugged Athlete breaks down why three miles in 45 minutes only proves minimum fitness—and what it actually takes to handle steep climbs, heavy tools, altitude, smoke, and back-to-back shifts without getting destroyed.What we cover:Why the Pack Test is Just the BaselineBuilt on aerobic data from the 90sModern evidence shows uphill assignments nearly double the demandIf the minimum leaves you gassed, the mountain will eat you aliveThe Type 1 Fitness Test (Austin's Alternative)Mile run → hand-release push-ups → loaded lunges → heavy carries → more lunges → two-mile runSub-40 minutes = meaningful benchmark for Type 1 crewsExposes weak links: quads/glutes under load, grip endurance, mental grind after leg fatigueTraining for Altitude & SmokeBuild big aerobic volume at home (Zone 2 sessions)Add loaded uphill work and VO2 intervalsPlan acclimatization when possibleNo gimmick mask replaces true hypoxia—consistent training and smart pacing doRecovery Tactics That Cut InjuriesBetter sleep and carbohydrate timing for long shiftsProtein targets for tissue repairHydration and electrolytes for heat and elevationMobility sessions to stay durable through 14-day rollsRugged Athlete AppSeasonal programming and on-ramps after layoffs or injuriesMicro plans for push-ups, pull-ups, timed runsHigh-performance hiking and preventative maintenance education7-day free trial availableFind The Journeyman App here:Google Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.livetjm.thejourneyman&pli=1Apple App Store:apps.apple.com/us/app/tjm-the-journeyman/id6503902863Visit Our Websitelivetjm.com/homeFind Rugged Athlete https://www.ruggedathletetraining.com/[00:00:00] The Grind And Burnout On The Line[00:05:00] Minimums Versus Real-World Demands[00:10:45] Altitude, Smoke, And Hidden Stressors[00:16:36] App, Programs, And Where To Start[00:20:20] Q&A Invite And Ways To Connect
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How to Actually Train for Wildland Fire
The line doesn't care how much you can bench if your back seizes on a ridge.Austin Womack—founder of Rugged Athlete, former pro sports strength coach, and wildland firefighter—shares how to build a body that actually holds up under load, heat, and chaos.What we cover:3-Step Preventative Maintenance RoutineSoft tissue prep → Mobilize → ReinforceLow-back and hip strategies with field-friendly toolsProactive (before big hikes) vs reactive (when something flares)No gym needed—works with a roller, lacrosse ball, or your packTraining Year BreakdownPostseason: Reset sleep, nutrition, movementOffseason: Build aerobic base + heavy bilateral strength (squats, deadlifts, presses)Preseason: Hiking volume, intervals, unilateral liftsIn-season: Maintain strength, manage wear, avoid overtrainingKey LessonThe pack test is the floor, not the standard. Austin's first season taught him the hard way: crushing air bike intervals doesn't prepare you for carrying a load uphill for hours.Find The Journeyman App here:Google Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.livetjm.thejourneyman&pli=1Apple App Store:apps.apple.com/us/app/tjm-the-journeyman/id6503902863Visit Our Websitelivetjm.com/homeFind Rugged Athlete https://www.ruggedathletetraining.com/[00:00:00] Treat Your Body Like Gear[00:04:30] First Season Lessons And Misconceptions[00:09:20] Physical Preventative Maintenance Framework[00:12:45] Low Back Example: Prep, Mobilize, Reinforce[00:15:20] Proactive Versus Reactive Care In The Field[00:17:10] Yearly Training Model For Firefighters
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Midnight Medevac, Combat Aviation & Why Good Pilots Say No
A single rifle round through the bubble, an offshore turn-back with voices urging "come on in," a midnight medevac launched from a Marine Corps ball—this is how real judgment is forged.Nick shows how to resist tunnel vision, choose safety over pressure, and turn raw experience into a framework you can actually use. From Afghanistan combat flights to EMS in Pine Ridge, offshore weather calls to aerial firefighting across three continents, these are the stories that teach you when to say no.What we cover:Close Calls & Hard DecisionsBullet through the helicopter window and fast recoveryOffshore turn-back when "get-there-itis" crept inWhy saying no under pressure keeps you aliveStress, fatigue, and tunnel vision in single-pilot operationsReturn to AfghanistanCOVID lockdown turned into grad-level study on decision-makingOperating 24/7 in high-tempo environmentsWhat precision longline work on California power lines taught himEMS & Crew Resource ManagementFlying medevac out of Pine RidgeWhy crew trust between pilots and clinicians saves livesMidnight medevac launched from a Marine Corps ballWhen communication works—and when it breaks downPhilippines OperationsTwo 107s moving Marines, 24/7 Kazevac missionsBarrel refuels in the darkSafe LZ, hidden gopher hole—how fast things go wrongNight operations and maintaining disciplineAerial Firefighting Across ContinentsU.S. structure vs. international deployment chaosBuckets vs. tanks: precision and flexibility vs. speed and capacityInitial attack tactics and ground coordinationHidden danger of falling branches under heavy dropsNight firefighting on NVGs: controversial but effective with strict reconThe Through-LineFly safely, teach well, leave the next crew betterHow to build judgment that holds under pressureHumility and restraint over hero movesThe goal: everyone goes homeFind The Journeyman App here:Google Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.livetjm.thejourneyman&pli=1Apple App Store:apps.apple.com/us/app/tjm-the-journeyman/id6503902863Visit Our Websitelivetjm.com/home[00:00:00] Purpose: Fly Safe And Teach[00:06:16] Why Bagram Should Have Stayed[00:10:49] Tunnel Vision, Risk, And Single-Pilot Pressure[00:18:12] Brothers, Wings, And Career Crossroads[00:23:34] Philippines: Marines, Kazevac, And A Wild Night[00:30:00] Buckets vs Tanks And Safety Tradeoffs[00:35:06] Night Firefighting On NVGs[00:37:50] Wrap-Up And Future Return
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From Planning HLZs to Flying Heavy Helicopters
A young Ranger falls in love with aviation while planning HLZs and talking to Little Birds—then bets his future on a last-minute pivot to flight school after the VA pulls funding.From shaky first hovers to that unforgettable first solo, Nick unpacks the learning curve that turns fear into focus, why instructing students sharpened his own skills more than any book, and how high-density-altitude flying in the Grand Canyon forces honest math and disciplined performance planning.What we cover:From Ranger Regiment to Flight SchoolForward observer work and exposure to Army aviationVA funding falls through—last-minute pivotWhy flight school felt impossible at firstFirst solo nerves and the moment everything clickedBuilding Skills & HoursWhy teaching flight students made him a better pilotHigh-density-altitude reality checks flying Grand Canyon toursPrescott operations and performance limits you can't fakeMoving offshore to Louisiana for turbine time in 407sThe Path to Heavy HelicoptersHow to build hours strategically for the jobs you wantGulf operations and what turbine experience unlocksGetting hired by Columbia HelicoptersWhat it takes to fly heavy lift (skills, mindset, humility)Lessons That StickHumility beats bravado every timeSoft skills matter as much as stick skillsStudy the systems—your crew's life depends on itFear is normal; focus is what mattersFind The Journeyman App here:Google Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.livetjm.thejourneyman&pli=1Apple App Store:apps.apple.com/us/app/tjm-the-journeyman/id6503902863Visit Our Websitelivetjm.com/home[00:00:00] Meet Nick: Ranger To Pilot[00:05:00] Choosing Flight School And VA Maze[00:10:20] Training Grind And First Solo[00:18:50] Offshore Flying And First-Time Fears[00:27:30] Crew Culture And Soft Skills[00:38:30] Afghanistan Ops: Tempo And Lessons[00:44:00] Ego Checks, Mentorship, And Upgrade
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Seizure on the Fireline Led to Brain Tumor Diagnosis
A quiet afternoon on a slow-moving fire turned into a life-altering moment when a teammate spotted Tyler having a seizure under a tree.That fast call and a helicopter ride set off a chain of decisions where a six-hour surgery removed most of a surprise brain tumor. What followed wasn't a collapse—it was a deliberate rebuild.What we cover:The Day Everything ChangedSeizure recognized by a teammate on the firelineHelicopter evacuation and first MRI showing massSurgery & DiagnosisSix-hour brain tumor surgery and rapid early recoveryPathology confirming grade three astrocytomaHonest conversations with specialists about what comes nextTreatment Plan: The Standard StackRadiation mask fitting and daily treatment routineOral chemo schedule: five days a month for a yearSeizure medication and six-month driving restrictionQuarterly MRIs to track progressMetabolic & Supportive StrategiesKetogenic eating and measured ketosisIntermittent fasting protocolsRed light therapy for mitochondrial healthMethylene blue, meditation, and cold exposureWhy we're stacking everything that might helpNavigating the SystemHow to select specialists and get second opinionsOff-label medications: what to vet and how to avoid scammersUnderstanding incentives in medicineKey fact: primary brain cancers rarely spread outside the brainWhat Hasn't ChangedStill building, still hunting, still showing up for the teamWhy the mission matters more than everStubbornly hopeful and relentlessly practicalThe Bottom Line:This isn't a collapse story. It's a roadmap for fighting smart—combining proven medical treatment with evidence-based supportive strategies while avoiding the noise and scams that prey on desperate people.Find The Journeyman App here:Google Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.livetjm.thejourneyman&pli=1Apple App Store:apps.apple.com/us/app/tjm-the-journeyman/id6503902863Visit Our Websitelivetjm.com/homeOur Sponsor Mile Supplementsmilesupplements.com/pages/the-journeyman-tjm[00:00:00] Seizure On The Fireline[00:09:45] Breaking The News And Next Steps[00:14:30] Choosing A Surgical Team In Denver[00:20:00] Surgery Day And Early Recovery[00:25:30] Waiting On Pathology And Results[00:39:30] Off‐Label Protocols And Scams[00:45:00] Radiation Mask, Routine, And Side Effects[00:55:00] Hope, Skepticism, And Next Milestones
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We Ditched 4 Apps and Built One That Actually Works
Two phones on the table. One urgent request. Fifteen minutes to say yes—or watch tens of thousands slip away.We used to juggle spreadsheets, Slack threads, text chains, and guesswork to fill resource requests. So we built one platform to replace it all. Then we prove it works by filling a live resource request on-air in minutes.What we cover:The Chaos We FixedWhy "I think they're current" kills contractsThe real cost of juggling four tools to staff one assignmentHow one missed license torpedoes tens of thousandsThe Solution: Live DemoWe receive a real resource request mid-recordingWatch us fill it in minutes using verified rosters and state licensesNo spreadsheets. No Slack chaos. Just one platform that works.Why We Built The JourneymanMarine Corps discipline meets wildland logisticsKnow exactly who's qualified, where they are, and which licenses they holdPush notifications, shift tracking, equipment management—one systemFrom field-born chaos to dependable platformTraining Access & Off-Season WorkCentralizing RT-130 refreshers and pack tests for crews outside fire hubsTranslating fireline skills to cruise ships, mining, events, and remote industrial workKeep earning year-round when the flames die downFor Business Owners: Faster yes, verified credentials, one tool instead of fourFor Providers: More opportunities, easier deployment, off-season connectionsFind The Journeyman App here:Google Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.livetjm.thejourneyman&pli=1Apple App Store:apps.apple.com/us/app/tjm-the-journeyman/id6503902863Visit Our Websitelivetjm.com/homeOur Sponsor Mile Supplementsmilesupplements.com/pages/the-journeyman-tjm[00:00:00] One Platform To Run The Business[00:08:18] Why Logistics Win In Fire And Combat[00:16:25] Off-Season Work And Cross-Industry Skills[00:19:06] Content Strategy And Education Gap[00:27:50] MOS Paths And Early Career Pivots[00:35:27] Getting Into Wildland: Training And First Fires[00:44:05] Building Trust While Launching A Company[00:50:18] What Journeyman Actually Solves[00:58:05] From Idea To Operating System For Crews[01:01:45] Training Access, Licenses, And Missed Contracts
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15
So You Want to Be a Hotshot? Marine Vet Explains What It Really Takes
The door to the buggy slides shut and the air turns thick with sweat, dust, and gallows humor—welcome to hotshot life.Adam Thomas—Marine infantry vet turned city firefighter, paramedic, and two-season Springville Hotshot—breaks down what it really takes to earn a spot on a Type 1 hand crew and why the only way out is through.What we cover:What Hotshots Actually DoWhy Type 1 hand crews get sent to steep, remote terrain where aircraft can't finish the jobHow technique beats raw strength when the shift stretches to 10+ hoursThe culture: real brotherhood, real friction, and pride that comes from solving problems far from roadsAdam's Path: Marine Infantry to HotshotsFrom college burnout to finding purpose in EMSThe EMT call that pushed him into paramedic schoolMoving from city fire to contracting overseasGetting 4 days notice for a California hotshot tryout—and taking itPassing the hill, grabbing a tool, and learning what "work" really meansBeing a Paramedic on a Hand CrewWorking without ALS gear on the lineStepping off the saw to support other divisionsHow medical response on wildland fires can do betterFor REMS Medics and EMTs: How to Integrate with CrewsFind overhead early and mark maps with crew tracksHike to the work at your own paceBring simple value that builds trustPosition yourself where help is actually neededGetting Hired: The Practical PathSeasonal vs. permanent roles explainedHow to format a federal resume on USAJOBSWhy S-130/S-190 certification helps you stand outHow veterans can leverage preference to land interviewsAdam's Baghdad-to-Springville story: bold action + preparationThe Real TollLong shifts with ash for a pillowThe first time you wonder if your body can get back upDoubt, endurance, and what keeps you goingWhy the mission is clear, the skills are used daily, and the growth is realThe Bottom Line:If you're shot-curious, a firefighter eyeing the line, or a medic ready to move beyond staging, this is your field guide. Adam doesn't sugarcoat it—the work is hard, but the payoff is real.Find The Journeyman App here:Google Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.livetjm.thejourneyman&pli=1Apple App Store:apps.apple.com/us/app/tjm-the-journeyman/id6503902863Visit Our Websitelivetjm.com/homeOur Sponsor Mile Supplementsmilesupplements.com/pages/the-journeyman-tjm[00:00:00] Life Inside The Hotshot Buggy[00:05:28] Deployments, Boot Years, And Identity[00:11:15] Finding Purpose In EMS And Fire[00:17:01] Paramedic School, Workload, And Fit[00:24:03] From Baghdad To Springville Tryout[00:31:20] Brotherhood, Fights, And Family Dynamics[00:38:50] How Medics Tie In With Crews[00:44:04] Small Gestures That Build Trust[00:50:04] Pay, Preference, And Opportunity[00:59:15] How To Get Hired On A Crew[01:11:40] Closing Thanks And Takeaways
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14
How Wildland Fire Can Fund the Life You Actually Want: EMT, Pilot, Sailing & More
What if you could skip $100K in debt and build a life of real skills, income, and freedom instead? Maxim took the road less traveled—and it's paying off. In this episode, we break down The Preparation: a 16-cycle, 4-year alternative to college that replaces lectures with action. EMT certification, wildland fire seasons, sailing across the Falklands, flight training, heavy equipment operation, Muay Thai, cooking in Florence, and launching an ag drone business—all before most graduates cross a stage. This isn't theory. It's 1,920 hours a year of applied learning, paid work that funds high-ticket skills, and a public portfolio on Substack that attracts mentors and opportunities. In This Episode:The "be, do, have" mindset that changes everythingHow wildland fire paychecks fund pilot licenses and sailing credentialsWhy each 3-month cycle pairs anchor experiences with focused studySurviving seasickness on a Falklands voyage while earning competent crewStacking skills across industries: rescue knots to rigging on deckThe hacker cycle: no-code tools and real-world tech fluencyLaunching a precision ag drone service while still in the programWhy this path works for veterans, pivoters, and anyone feeling boxed inFind The Journeyman App here:Google Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.livetjm.thejourneyman&pli=1Apple App Store:apps.apple.com/us/app/tjm-the-journeyman/id6503902863Visit Our Websitelivetjm.com/homeOur Sponsor Mile Supplementsmilesupplements.com/pages/the-journeyman-tjmFind Maxim Smith here:Substack:www.maximsmith.comInstagram:www.instagram.com/smith.maxim/Amazon link to book: www.amazon.com/Preparation-Become-Competent-Confident-Dangerous/dp/B0FLRKZCKL/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.QElgZvBblre_3j9z7Wf8k9PrF1gTH6Sq1-mHKJsk-zkoYg_I7XdIVWU2WN2TQoCZ.xGW_EUc9-DRsllaYO7dzsyezPkbx6ZBMLwTHe56SxTo&qid=1755512503&sr=8-1
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13
Field Trauma Care for Wildland Firefighters: What to Carry and How to Use It
Miles from pavement, the rules change. Field trauma care isn't optional—it's the difference between a recovery and a rescue.We sat down with Brennen—Army 68W combat medic turned paramedic, REMS lead to unpack how combat medicine principles make wildland firefighting safer, faster, and more self-sufficient when evacuation is uncertain.What we cover:Austere Care FundamentalsWhy supraglottic airways often beat intubation in the woodsWhen a cric might be the right callProlonged field care realities when you may sit on a patient for hoursStop the Bleed for Fire CrewsTourniquet selection and junctional wound packingHemostatics that work and how to use themCommercial vs improvised tourniquets: time and success ratesSimple SOPs that save minutes under stressWhat Every Firefighter Should CarryTourniquetHemostatic gauzeEpi auto-injector (where protocols allow)Intranasal naloxoneCrew SOPs for staging gear and self-rescueBuilding Your CareerFrom Army 68W to wildland fire and REMSCooperator vs contractor roles and ordering pathwaysHow to open and complete task books efficientlyTiming USAJOBS applications for federal EMS positionsMedical Support TrailersBringing mid-level providers to incidentsSuturing, antibiotics, and expanded ALS capability in campKeeping crews in the fight and improving quality of lifeSeverity Assignments & Behind the ScenesPatrolling for smokes and IA readinessCache work that powers big firesDay-to-day reality of severity rolesThe Bottom Line:Whether you run a saw, lead a crew, or want to build your medical edge on the fireline, this episode is loaded with field-ready skills you can use tomorrow. Translating TCCC (Tactical Combat Casualty Care) to wildland fire isn't just smart—it's necessary when help is hours away.Find The Journeyman App here:Google Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.livetjm.thejourneyman&pli=1Apple App Store:apps.apple.com/us/app/tjm-the-journeyman/id6503902863Visit Our Websitelivetjm.com/homeOur Sponsor Mile Supplementsmilesupplements.com/pages/the-journeyman-tjmFind Red Desert Rescue here:www.reddesertrescue.com[00:00:00] Combat Medicine Meets Wildland Fire[00:06:57] Brennen's Path: Army Medic To Paramedic[00:15:56] Wilderness Versus City Medic: Different Niches[00:24:20] What To Carry: TQs, Hemostatics, Epi, Narcan[00:36:20] Crew SOPs, Pace Plans, And Self‑Rescue[00:40:00] Red Desert Rescue: Building MST Capability[00:47:44] Task Books, Qualifications, And Career Strategy[00:55:10] Training Offers: Stop The Bleed And WFR Skills
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12
Lightweight REMS Systems That Actually Work on Wildland Fires
Heavy REMS caches slow you down. Lightweight systems save lives.We sat down with Brian from Prevail Rescue Solutions to break down what actually makes REMS teams effective on wildland fires: minimalist rope systems, anchorcraft under pressure, and prolonged field care that holds up through a cold, sleepless night.Why train in anchor-poor Utah canyons? No trees. No bolts. You learn to ghost canyons, trust retrievable anchors, and move with intention. When fire wipes a ridge clean and you still need to get down, package, and move—that training pays off.What we cover:Level One FundamentalsTotem rack versatility and VT prusik magicCompact pulleys where each piece does multiple jobsAnchorcraft in terrain with nothing to work withRetrievable anchors and creative riggingLevel Two Reality Check9-hour night scenario with live patients that reset our understanding of pacePain meds, hypothermia prevention, pressure relief, fluids, documentationCurveballs: canceled air, shifting RV points, systems that held (or didn't)Patient perspective—every bump in a sked has consequencesGear That WorksClass two harnesses win in the mountainsSkeds beat Stokes for speed and manpowerChest rigs and integrated helmets keep radios, maps, and lights accessibleCapability over checklists: meet technician JPRs with tested, interoperable gearStandards & The FutureNFPA's caveat on mountain and cave rescue mattersEducating divisions early about what REMS can (and can't) doHotshot self-rescue potential and early engagementWhere FireScope and NWCG guidance may shift nextThe Bottom Line:Think speed, not bulk. Build REMS teams that move fast, think clearly, and treat the patient like the mission. We're challenging old assumptions with data, principles, and training that rewards results over part counts.Find The Journeyman App here:Google Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.livetjm.thejourneyman&pli=1Apple App Store:apps.apple.com/us/app/tjm-the-journeyman/id6503902863Visit Our Websitelivetjm.com/homeFind Prevail Rescue Solutions here:www.prevailrescue.com[00:00:00] Comfort Vs Capability In Real Rescue[00:05:10] Minimal Kits And Anchorcraft Mindset[00:12:00] Nine-Hour Night Scenario Lessons[00:19:05] Totem Rack Philosophy And VT Prusik[00:26:20] Depriving Gear To Force Problem-Solving[00:33:20] Helmets, Chest Rigs, And Interop Lessons[00:40:45] Hotshot Self-Rescue And First-On-Scene[00:49:20] Skeds Over Stokes And Lightweight Mobility[00:55:20] Where REMS Is Heading And Policy Shifts[01:00:20] From Specs To Capability-Based Standards
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11
Why REMS Teams Should Be Medics First, Rope Rescue Second (Controversial Take)
REMS teams should be medics first, with rope capability second—not the other way around.We make the case for why medicine must lead when extraction takes hours, air assets are grounded, and patients can't wait for perfect rigging. Lean systems and strong people outperform bulky redundancy when time is tissue.What we cover:REMS Philosophy & PACE PlanningWhy med-first with rope capability is the right stanceBuilding PACE planning as a daily habit and team cultureSafe-to-fail testing: blowing anchors, reading soils, logging real loadsRope Systems That Move FastLightweight, multi-use gear over heavy redundancy8mm aramid-sheathed ropes and single rope technique tradeoffsReducing human error through simpler systemsMeat anchors that get the first rescuer down in minutesMedicine That Saves LivesPoint-of-injury care and prolonged field care for protracted evacuationsAnalgesia, hypothermia prevention, bleeding control, airway strategiesPackaging that actually moves in steep countryIntegrating air, ground, UTVs, and dozers for extractionThe Bottom Line:Turn recoveries into rescues by investing in people, testing until failure, simplifying the system, and putting medicine at the center. We challenge rope dogma with data, principles, and reps—and steal smart practices from canyoneers, cavers, arborists, and tactical medics along the way.Find The Journeyman App here:Google Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.livetjm.thejourneyman&pli=1Apple App Store:apps.apple.com/us/app/tjm-the-journeyman/id6503902863Visit Our Websitelivetjm.com/homeFind Prevail Rescue Solutions here:www.prevailrescue.com[00:00:00] Opening Hot Take: Medics First[00:06:28] ICS Lessons From Wildland Campaigns[00:12:16] PACE Planning As A Habit[00:19:50] What Makes REMS Work In Reality[00:23:08] Prevail Rescue: Origins And Philosophy[00:27:07] Erasing Dogma With Data And Principles[00:31:05] Single Rope, Twin Tension, And Tradeoffs[00:38:50] Meat Anchors, Edges, And Speed[00:45:20] The Controversy: Medicine Inside REMS[00:49:10] Prolonged Field Care And Closing
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10
What Wildland Firefighters Must Know About Medical Emergencies
Four lessons from the Dutch Creek incident that every wildland firefighter and medic needs to know:1. Radio language matters. Say "struck by tree" and "active bleed"—not just "leg injury"2. Spin up aviation early. You can always cancel if you don't need it3. Stop the bleed FIRST. Stabilize massive hemorrhage and airway before moving the patient4. Assign one medical lead. Clear ownership prevents communication drift and keeps everyone aligned on GPS, LZs, and patient statusWe revisit the Dutch Creek incident and the loss of Andy Palmer to map the real-world decisions, delays, and coordination breakdowns that forged modern wildland EMS protocols. From the first radio call to the final hoist, we walk through what went wrong: smoke grounding helicopters, county medics hiking in light because "broken leg" sounded minor, the scramble between agency and Coast Guard aircraft, and the brutal reality of carrying a patient down a moondust dozer line.A calm dispatch can hide a life-threatening bleed—and those first words shape everything that happens next. Better language, earlier activation, and stronger medical leadership could have changed the outcome. We unpack exactly how.We close with the reforms that followed—NWCG Dutch Creek protocols, required medical resources on incidents, and a shared culture of readiness built on four questions every crew must answer:What will we do if someone gets hurt?How will we get them out of here?How long will it take to get them to a hospital?Who owns the plan?Honor Andy Palmer by making readiness non-negotiable: carry the right gear, train for the terrain, call it red when your gut says go, and never let a soft radio call delay a hard response.Find The Journeyman App here:Google Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.livetjm.thejourneyman&pli=1Apple App Store:apps.apple.com/us/app/tjm-the-journeyman/id6503902863Visit Our Websitelivetjm.com/home[00:00:00] Why Details Save Lives[00:06:47] The Incident Unfolds[00:10:24] Miscommunications And Resource Delays[00:18:44] Hoist Decision And Outcome[00:22:46] Reforms, Protocols, And The Three Questions
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9
Complete Wildland Fire Pack List: 14-Day Roll Essentials (Boots to Spike Camp)
We break down a real-world pack list for a 14-day wildland fire roll, from boots and blister care to sleep systems, hygiene, and power. The goal is simple: carry what makes you faster, safer, and more self-sufficient at ICP and spike camp.• defining spike camp and planning for self-sufficiency• boot standards, break-in, socks, and hot-spot treatment• pro deals, cost-saving tips, and brand trade-offs• Nomex vs TecaSafe, fit, repairs, and sewing kits• shirts, belts, eye protection for day and night, headlamps• gloves, tools, shelters, and what to inspect• sleep systems: pads vs cots, tents, staking, day-sleep options• camp etiquette and protecting everyone’s rest• hygiene without showers, preventing camp crud, basic meds• food reality at ICP, jetboils, protein, and electrolytes• hydration setups, filtration, bottles, and bladders• power and comms: batteries, Starlink, notebooks• tourniquets, allergies, self-aid, and team readiness• what not to bring: drugs, guns, alcohol, and noise• packing extras: footwear, running gear, simple town clothesFind The Journeyman App here:Google Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.livetjm.thejourneyman&pli=1Apple App Store:apps.apple.com/us/app/tjm-the-journeyman/id6503902863Visit Our Websitelivetjm.com/home[00:00:00] What "Spiked Out" Really Means[00:08:06] Buying Smart: Pro Deals and Boot Evolution[00:18:12] Shirts, Eye Pro, Headlamps, and PPE Basics[00:23:04] Tools, Fire Shelters, Gloves, and Packs[00:38:41] Hygiene Without Showers and Avoiding Camp Crud[00:48:08] Off-Line Clothes, Laundry, and Footwear[00:52:43] Jetboils, Water Systems, and Electrolytes[01:02:10] Med Basics: Tourniquets, Allergies, and Self-Reliance[01:11:00] Final Resources, Community Tips, and Wrap
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8
How to Become a Wildland Fire Medic: Roles Explained
A good line medic doesn’t wait at the bottom of the hill—they’re already up there, catching their breath before anyone else loses theirs. We pull back the curtain on wildland fire EMS with a blunt, field-tested walkthrough of what actually makes a difference: proximity, planning, and the relationships that shave minutes off response when the terrain and work stack the odds.We map out the roles you’ll see on incidents—single resource medics and EMTs, ambulances at ICP and on the line, med mods with UTVs, and the ever-misunderstood REMS teams—and explain what each job really demands. You’ll hear why certain state licenses (Arizona, Montana, and often Colorado) decide who deploys, how to build credibility fast by checking kits, teaching stop-the-bleed, and marking LZs, and when to advocate for more coverage or different sequencing to reduce risk. We talk shop on rendezvous vs. full transports, burn center routing, long dirt-road realities, and the simple mechanical and mapping skills that keep you working when the nearest tow is tomorrow.Then we get honest about REMS. The mission is medical-first with rope capability—not a rope team that remembers medicine later. We cover team training, culture, and the controversial but practical case for splitting 2-and-2 to collapse response times across split divisions, backed by a real incident where proximity changed the outcome. If you’re trying to break into this world, we lay out a clear path: FFT2, reputable Rope Rescue Technician courses, VFD affiliations for task books, and the licenses that unlock regions. Add humility, initiative, and steady communication with crews and MedL, and you’ll be the person operations fights to keep when they start cutting resources.If this helped you sharpen your plan for the season, follow and subscribe, share with a teammate, and drop a review telling us what topic you want next—REMS deep dive, med mods, or clinic trailers?Find The Journeyman App here:Google Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.livetjm.thejourneyman&pli=1Apple App Store:apps.apple.com/us/app/tjm-the-journeyman/id6503902863Visit Our Websitelivetjm.com/home[00:00:00] Intro and welcome[00:03:44] Roles on Incidents: Ambulance, Single Resource, Med Mods[00:08:25] Single Resource: Expectations and Best Practices[00:13:55] Training Crews and Building Rapport[00:19:59] Ambulances on the Line: Reality vs Myth[00:28:20] Med Trailers and Camp-Based Care[00:34:00] REMS: Medical First, Rope Rescue Second[00:41:05] Splitting REMS Teams and Real-World Outcomes[00:50:20] Career Path: Task Books, VFDs, and Licenses[01:10:00] Closing Thoughts and How to Reach Us
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7
How Fire Company Owners Track Every Dollar
Tyler shares his health update after surgery, then dive we into a live demo of how we run a wildland fire company from one platform: people, gear, incidents, and money in one place. The goal is simple—cut chaos, fill orders, get paid, and keep crews moving.• Why we moved from scattered tools to a single operating system• How company profiles, verification and dashboards reduce risk• Finding qualified people with availability, maps and direct outreach• Using internal notes and teams to speed swaps and relief• Tracking gear vs equipment for chain of custody and readiness• Joining incidents and assigning people, vehicles and docs• Digital shift tickets, receipts and OF286 alignment for AR• Reporting needs for audits, wages by state and true costs• Pricing tiers and what each unlocks• Where we’re building next and how to give feedbackIf you’re a business owner and want a deeper demo, reach out and we can do another demo where you can ask questions back and forthFind The Journeyman App here:Google Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.livetjm.thejourneyman&pli=1Apple App Store:apps.apple.com/us/app/tjm-the-journeyman/id6503902863[00:00:00] Health Update After Brain Surgery[00:01:39] Clarifying Hiring vs. Networking On Platform[00:03:26] Why We Built An All‑In‑One Wildland Ops Tool[00:05:10] Company Profiles And Verification[00:07:48] Company Dashboard: Payments And AR[00:10:54] Finding Talent: Search, Filters, Availability[00:13:50] Roster Strategy, Maps, And Internal Notes[00:18:06] Company Communications And Teams[00:21:30] Gear vs. Equipment: Tracking And Chain Of Custody[00:25:56] Incident Management Beta: Days, Dollars, Documents[00:30:32] Joining Incidents And Assigning Resources[00:34:30] Shift Tickets, Receipts, And Reporting[00:38:16] Pricing: Type 3 Freemium To Type 1 Unlimited[00:41:20] Roadmap, Feedback, And Next Demos
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6
The App That Actually Gets Wildland Firefighters Hired
We explore how The Journeyman app revolutionizes wildland firefighting with digital profiles, document management, and incident tracking. From digital shift tickets to location sharing, this platform is transforming how firefighters manage their careers and connect with employers.• Complete profiles with photos and certifications are essential for visibility to hiring companies• Digital document management with customizable privacy settings keeps certifications organized• The availability toggle shows companies when you're ready for work• Digital shift tickets eliminate repetitive paperwork and provide permanent records• Incident management features track your fire assignments, locations, and work history• Location sharing helps companies deploy closest available resources• In-app messaging creates a "campfire chat" for firefighters on the same incident• Upcoming features will track earnings and provide annual summaries of deploymentsDownload The Journeyman app on your app store today and take 15 minutes to complete your profile – it could result in opportunities you never thought possible.Find The Journeyman App here:Google Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.livetjm.thejourneyman&pli=1Apple App Store:apps.apple.com/us/app/tjm-the-journeyman/id6503902863[00:00:00] Why Profiles Matter[00:04:12] Navigating The Journeyman App[00:08:54] Profile Features and Privacy Options[00:17:40] Digital Shift Tickets Explained[00:25:39] Incident Management Features[00:35:08] Fire Maps and Community Features[00:39:50] Final App Features and Feedback
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5
Your Complete Guide to Wildland Fire Careers
Getting into wildland firefighting starts with basic certifications and understanding different career paths available in the industry. We break down the steps from complete beginner to working your first fire.• Start by getting your FFT2 certification through online courses on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal• Complete S130 (including field day), L180, S190, and ICS courses 100 and 700• Pass the pack test - walking 3 miles with 45lbs in under 45 minutes• Consider which role suits you - hand crews hike miles into remote areas while engine crews stay closer to roads• Agency positions offer more stability while contractor positions may have less certainty during slow seasons• Prepare for 14-day deployments in vastly different environments and weather conditions• Know the 10 and 18s (Standard Firefighting Orders and Watch Out Situations) before arriving at your first assignment• Familiarize yourself with the 8-line medical incident report in the Incident Response Pocket Guide• Start preparing early - many training opportunities happen in winter/spring before fire season begins• Keep track of all your certifications - never let anyone else hold your only copyFind The Journeyman App here:Google Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.livetjm.thejourneyman&pli=1Apple App Store:apps.apple.com/us/app/tjm-the-journeyman/id6503902863[00:00:00] Preparing for Weather Extremes[00:02:40] Basics of Wildland Certification[00:08:54] Pack Test and Fitness Requirements[00:13:26] Different Wildland Fire Roles[00:18:09] Agency vs Contractor Employment[00:24:43] Essential First Year Knowledge[00:27:54] Key Resources and Safety Protocols
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4
Wildland Firefighters: Never Miss Another Paycheck Hour
The Journeyman platform brings wildland firefighting into the digital age by solving critical problems for both firefighters and companies through streamlined certification management, hiring processes, and incident tracking.• Creating LinkedIn-style profiles where firefighters can showcase qualifications and experience• Storing certifications digitally with expiration alerts to prevent hostage certifications by companies• Providing a centralized job board with emergency hiring capabilities for last-minute resource needs• Offering digital shift tickets that eliminate paper forms and create permanent documentation• Organizing crews through roster management with team-specific communications• Tracking incident data, equipment, and personnel across multiple assignments• Using location sharing to connect available resources with nearby opportunities• Consolidating multiple business functions into one platform instead of several costly subscriptions• Helping both companies and firefighters maximize their seasonal opportunitiesIf you're interested in seeing The Journeyman platform in action, look for our upcoming episode where we'll demonstrate the features in detail. We're always open to feedback from both firefighters and companies on what you'd like to see added to the platform.Find The Journeyman App here:Google Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.livetjm.thejourneyman&pli=1Apple App Store:apps.apple.com/us/app/tjm-the-journeyman/id6503902863[00:00:00] Hiring Challenges in Wildland Fire[00:08:53] Why We Built The Journeyman[00:15:15] Firefighter Profiles and Certification Management[00:21:10] Digital Shift Tickets and Incident Tracking[00:29:10] Company Roster Management Features[00:39:28] Emergency Hiring and Location Sharing[00:46:07] Data Collection and Vehicle Management[00:52:21] Future Features and Episode Wrap-up
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3
Managing 150+ Firefighters with Magnets and Paper?
What happens when two former Marines turned EMS business owners get frustrated with managing wildland fire resources using paper shift tickets and magnets on a whiteboard? They build a solution.Tyler and Brennan share the origin story of The Journeyman app - a platform born from the real challenges they faced running Minuteman EMS, their wildland fire medical services company. From struggling to find Colorado-licensed paramedics while goose hunting in Canada to losing entire day's worth of pay due to missing paperwork, the problems they encountered became the blueprint for a technology solution that's now used by nearly 100 companies and over 2,500 wildland firefighters."We go to these fires with 500+ people picking up 30-page IAPs and everyone's filling out four carbon copy shift tickets. What are we doing? It's 2025." Their platform now offers digital shift tickets, certification tracking, resource management, and communication tools specifically designed for the unique needs of the wildland fire community.Beyond just creating a "LinkedIn for wildland fire," The Journeyman addresses deeper industry challenges: helping companies track which employees worked in which states for workman's comp purposes, providing firefighters proof of their assignments for payment disputes, and offering data-driven insights that help both businesses and individuals make better decisions.Whether you're a wildland firefighter looking to advance your career or a company struggling to organize your resources, this conversation offers a fascinating look at how technology is finally catching up to an industry that's been managing 21st century fires with 20th century administrative tools.Find The Journeyman App here:Google Play Store: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.livetjm.thejourneyman&pli=1Apple App Store:apps.apple.com/us/app/tjm-the-journeyman/id6503902863[00:00:00] Introduction to Minuteman EMS[00:06:48] Marine Corps Background and EMS Origins[00:17:58] Creation of Minuteman EMS[00:27:21] The Journeyman App Concept[00:35:44] Features for Wildland Firefighters[00:43:35] Business Management Solutions[00:54:16] Digital Documentation and Future Plans[01:00:10] Subscription Model and Episode Closing
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Welcome to the Spiked Out Podcast - your go-to for real stories, real people, and real insight from the wildland fire world. Brought to you by The Journeyman, we interview seasoned pros, share education, tips on getting certified, landing jobs, and making the most of the season. Whether you're already on the line or just getting started, we've got you covered. Tune in and get Spiked Out with us.
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The Journeyman
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