The C.A.N. Report

In this episode, Chris Maleta shares his journey from being inspired by his grandfather to becoming a firefighter and entrepreneur. He discusses the challenges and rewards of balancing his firefighting career with his brand, Carry the Flag, which emphasizes hard work, community service, and physical fitness. Chris reflects on the importance of perseverance, the impact of family legacy, and the need to raise awareness about issues like child trafficking. He also highlights the significance of enjoying the moment in a fast-paced career and the camaraderie found in the firefighting community. Chris Maleta not only pushes us to be better than we were yesterday, he reminds us to never forget the Oath that we took. To never forget the tragic events on 9/11. His motto is simple..."Freedom isn’t free.It’s earned — through hard work, sacrifice, blood, and sweat.We don’t just wear the flag.We live by it.We carry it forward every damn day.This is Carry The Flag.Freedom isn’t free.."TakeawaysChris Maleta's journey into firefighting was inspired by his grandfather.He transitioned from Kansas City to Oak Island, North Carolina, for a new experience.Chris emphasizes the importance of physical fitness in firefighting.The idea for Carry the Flag came from a motivational moment with fellow firefighters.He believes in the power of community and giving back through fundraising.Chris has interviewed successful individuals to learn about entrepreneurship.He balances his firefighting duties with his entrepreneurial pursuits.The brand Carry the Flag represents hard work and dedication to the community.Chris aims to raise awareness about child trafficking through his initiatives.He values family time and the importance of creating memories.Visit Carry the Flag, see for yourself..get a free sticker to remind yourself to Never Forget.https://www.carrytheflagusa.com/Make sure to check out 30 Fire You Must knowhttps://30fires.com/Make sure to tune into the Weekly Scrap with Corley Moore on all platforms.https://www.firehousevigilance.com/

In this episode I sit down with Retired Deputy Chief John Chesnulevich of the Nashua Fire Department. John started his fire service with the Hudson Junior Explorer program when he was 15 years old. Fast forward to John starting with one of the busiest fire departments in New Hampshire at only 18 years old. John climbed rose to the ranks of Deputy Chief with Nashua Fire, retiring in 1991. John has worn many hats in the fire service and gives us some of his experiences that he went through in the '70s.

In this episdoe I have an insightful conversation with Bassel Ibrahim, a passionate firefighter, Officer, Instructor, Husband, Father and owner of Proactive Rescue Operations. We discuss the importance of work-life balance in the fire service, building trust within teams, and the significance of proactive training. Bassel shares his experiences, including the creation of Proactive Rescue Operations and the One Bad Tour training program, emphasizing the need for continuous improvement and data-driven decision-making in firefighting. The conversation highlights the challenges and rewards of being a firefighter, as well as the importance of community and support within the profession.TakeawaysBassel Ibrahim is passionate about the fire service and helping others excel.Work-life balance is crucial for firefighters to maintain personal and professional fulfillment.Building trust and rapport within a firefighting team enhances performance and morale.Proactive Rescue Operations focuses on teaching and learning from diverse perspectives.Bassel's drive for training stems from a personal experience in a fire incident.One Bad Tour is a rigorous training program designed to challenge firefighters.Training against the clock is essential for preparing firefighters for real-life scenarios.Bassel emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement and learning in the fire service.The Firefighter Mayday Survey aims to collect data to improve firefighter safety and tactics.Bassel is involved in various initiatives to enhance firefighting education and training.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Basil Ibrahim and His Journey04:35 The Importance of Work-Life Balance in the Fire Service09:34 Building Trust and Rapport with Your Crew13:48 Proactive Rescue Operations: Teaching and Learning17:04 The Catalyst for Change: A Personal Story23:38 One Bad Tour: A Unique Training Experience36:25 Empowering Through Failure39:02 Realistic Training and Mental Resilience41:53 Innovative Class Structures at FDIC45:38 Feedback and Continuous Improvement50:50 Reviving the Firefighter Mayday Survey56:31 The Importance of Data in Firefighting58:34 Training Against the Clock01:04:07 Choosing to Win in Training01:11:24 The Role of Social Media in Firefightinghttps://proactiverescueoperations.com/https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/https://thekitchentablefoundation.org/https://notoriousfire.com/

In this episode of the CAN Report, I hav e a great conversation with Chief Russell Osgood, a dedicated fire service leader with nearly 40 years of experience. We discuss the importance of cancer prevention in firefighters, the role of the Kitchen Table Foundation in supporting first responders, and practical strategies for improving firefighter wellness. Chief Osgood shares his personal experiences with cancer in the fire service and emphasizes the need for teamwork, proper gear usage, and physical fitness. The conversation highlights the significance of community engagement and mutual aid in ensuring the safety and health of firefighters.When Chief Osgood is not fulfilling his role at the Chief of the Ogunquit Fire Department, he dedicates his spare time to help with the Firefighter Cancer Support Network. Chief Osgood speaks nationally on the importance of firefighter cancer prevention. Visit https://www.firefightercancersupport.org/ and see what they are doing to help the fire service community.Check out FDIC and register to experience a conference full of knowledge, education and networking. https://www.fdic.com/Visit The Firefighter Kitchen Table Foundation and see how you can help spread the word on mental health in the fire service.https://thekitchentablefoundation.org/Be sure to visit Engine House Designs for all of your clothing needs...Ignite the pride! 😁🔥https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/

In this episode, I get to learn about Sean Connell, a fourth-generation firefighter from Maine. We discuss Sean's upbringing in the fire service, the challenges faced by volunteer firefighters, and the importance of training and certification. Sean shares his experiences with the HEN nozzles and the correlation between sports and firefighting. The conversation also touches on the significance of mentorship and the culture within fire departments, as well as Sean's upcoming presentation at the New England FOOLS Northeastern Fire Summit.https://nefools.org/https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/https://www.hentechnologies.com/

Review of Bearers of the Oath RIT or DIE, Douglas,Georgia. BOTO is not just about the training, it's about building each other up. You start as strangers and leave as family. All of the students were dialed in and wanted more! Words can't describe the emotions that you feel when you meet people like this. Registration is currently open for Bearers of the Oath #6. Visit their website and click that registration link.I had the pleasure of meeting so many amazing people..Jazmyne was one of those special people that I had the pleasure of meeting. When you watch this video...look at her smile and the pride that she has for this job and for her family. Keep killing it Jazmyne, as well as the all of the newest recruits! Nozzle Tov!https://www.bearersoftheoath.org/

In this episode, Chief Scott Thompson discusses the importance of fostering a culture that values aggressive problem-solving and independent thinking within the fire service. He emphasizes the need for firefighters to be well-trained and committed to their roles, highlighting the success of the single-role paramedic program in diversifying and strengthening the department. Chief Thompson also shares insights on leadership, the significance of maintaining a high-performing learning culture, and the challenges of balancing tradition with innovation in fire service operations.Chief Thompson discusses the importance of building a strong culture within fire departments, focusing on recruitment, retention, training, and leadership development. Chief Thompson explains the evolution of The Colony Fire Department and the need to address bullying and promote inclusion. We also discuss mental health and resilience in the firefighting profession, emphasizing the importance of support systems and community connections.TakeawaysSupport a culture that values firefighters' independence.Commitment to the mission is essential for success.Recruitment and retention are influenced by department culture.Training and preparedness are critical for effective firefighting.Succession planning ensures continuity in leadership.Addressing bullying is vital for a healthy work environment.Mental health resources are crucial for first responders.Single role paramedics can enhance service delivery.Teamwork and camaraderie strengthen the fire service.Leadership should encourage open communication and innovation.Chapters00:00 Building a Culture of Problem Solving03:45 The Colony Fire Department: Growth and Challenges10:38 Recruitment and Retention Strategies11:28 Understanding and Shaping Organizational Culture14:04 Succession Planning and Leadership Development15:24 The Tenure of a Fire Chief: When is Enough Enough?20:40 Innovative EMS Solutions: The Single Role Paramedic Program27:39 The Value of Fire Service Benefits30:23 Firefighter Medics: Balancing Roles and Responsibilities32:51 The Shift Towards Single Role Medics36:52 Training and Experience in Firefighting41:36 Creating an Inclusive Work Environment48:20 Addressing Bullying and Building a Positive Culture56:17 The Importance of Team Mindset in Firefighting57:39 Navigating the Path to Becoming a Firefighter58:36 Maintaining Standards in Fire Service59:25 The Ripple Effect of Leadership in Fire Culture01:00:42 Learning from Real-Life Fire Incidents01:03:00 The Role of Data and Experience in Firefighting01:04:48 Cowboy Ready: Balancing Safety and Aggression01:06:41 Mentorship and Inspiration in Fire Service01:09:07 The Functional Fire Company: A Guide to Best Practices01:11:08 Mental Health and Resilience in Firefighting01:17:03 Addressing the Culture of Bullying in FirehousesBe sure to check out Engine House Designshttps://www.enginehousedesigns.com/Check out our friends at The Kitchen Table Foundationhttps://thekitchentablefoundation.org/And shop at the OG of Fire Service Swaghttps://notoriousfire.com/

In this episode I sit down with Dr. David Hupp, an expert in fire service management and author of 'V.I.P.E.R. Improvement'. We discuss the integration of business improvement tools in fire departments, focusing on leadership, management, and efficiency. Dr. Hupp explains Lean Six Sigma methodologies, the importance of root cause analysis, and how to set SMART goals. We also touch on marketing strategies for recruitment, the significance of feedback loops, and the role of family support in a fire service career. Our discussion emphasizes the need for continuous learning and adapting to modern challenges in the fire service. TakeawaysLean Six Sigma is crucial for improving fire service efficiency.Root cause analysis helps prevent recurring issues in departments.Setting SMART goals provides clarity and accountability.Marketing strategies are essential for recruitment in fire services.Feedback loops are necessary for effective surveys and improvements.The Burn Change Management Model aids in implementing changes successfully.Social media can be a powerful tool for recruitment.Continuous training is vital for personal and departmental growth.Family support plays a significant role in a fire service career.Business tools can enhance the operational side of fire departments.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Leadership in Fire and EMS02:34 Understanding Lean Six Sigma and Its Application05:21 Inspiration Behind Writing the Book08:09 Business Models in Fire and EMS Departments10:57 Root Cause Analysis in Healthcare and Fire Services13:39 The Viper Improvement Framework Explained16:17 Setting SMART Goals for Departments19:15 Change Management in Fire Services22:00 Marketing Strategies for Recruitment24:39 Utilizing Social Media for Recruitment27:21 Conclusion and Class Offerings27:44 Crafting Effective Surveys for Honest Feedback31:34 The Importance of Feedback Loops33:33 The Journey into the Fire Service36:03 Leadership and Positive Reinforcement in Fire Service38:31 Balancing Family Life and Fire Service42:46 Passion for Training and Extrication45:11 Future Plans and Knowledge SharingVisit Dr. David Hupps' website for more informationhttps://viper-fire-ems.com/Visit https://a.co/d/3tcngvK on AMAZON to purchase V.I.P.E.R. ImprovementVisit Key City Fire Conference more informationhttps://www.keycityfireconference.org/Visit Engine House Designs..see what they can do for you.https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/Check out https://thekitchentablefoundation.org/ 👍And check out my online shop for all of your The CAN Report Swag!https://notoriousfireshops.com/the_can_report/shop/home

In this episode I sit down with Ben Wilson. Ben is the owner of F.D.I.R. Fire Training. Ben brings a positive and fresh new look to fire training. Through utilizing social media as a learning tool, Ben brings education to those looking for some quick, basic and informative lessons. He inspires others to bring that knowledge back to their fire departments and engage in conversations, which leads to hands on training. Ben discusses the impact of positivity and the pursuit of perfection in personal growth. He emphasizes the contagious nature of positivity and the importance of surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals who strive for excellence without the pressure of achieving perfection. Ben believes in treating others with respect and dignity. You can see the joy that Ben has for this career in his training reels and in our conversation. You can find Ben Wilson on instagram as well as various training venues throughout the country. Ben Wilson will be a presenter at the Key City Fire Conference in Frederick County Maryland in March.TakeawaysNegativity is infectious, but positivity is even better.Chasing perfection is a continuous journey, not a destination.Surrounding yourself with positive people enhances your own mindset.Perfection implies completion, which can hinder growth.The pursuit of excellence should be a shared experience.Mindset plays a crucial role in personal development.Striving for improvement is more valuable than achieving perfection.Positivity can create a ripple effect in social circles.Embracing imperfection can lead to greater creativity.Continuous learning is essential for personal and professional growth.fdirtraining.comhttps://www.enginehousedesigns.com/https://www.keycityfireconference.org/https://notoriousfire.com/

In this conversation, Mike Goldstein shares his personal journey with strokes and migraines, emphasizing the importance of understanding these health issues. He discusses his experiences with migraines, the impact of a stroke on his life, and the discovery of a PFO (patent foramen ovale) that contributed to his health challenges. Goldstein encourages listeners, especially first responders, to prioritize their health, seek answers, and not dismiss symptoms as mere headaches. He highlights the need for awareness and self-care in the face of these medical conditions.https://tedysteam.org/https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/congenital-heart-defects/about-congenital-heart-defects/patent-foramen-ovale-pfo

In this episode I had the privilege to talk with Captain Chad of the Austell Fire Department. Captain Chad Criss is a Bearers of the Oath Cadre member, as well as an Instructor for Elite Fire Training. Chad Criss emphasizes the importance of being fully committed to the emergency services profession and how Faith plays an important role in his everyday life. He discusses the need for progression and growth within the field, highlighting that being 'all in' means not only excelling in one's role but also giving back to the community and sharing skills with others. Chris underscores the significance of continuous learning and development in providing effective service. Chris hits on the importance of having a positive role in his youth, How his Grandfather taught him the important facts in life and how those lessons still have meaning to this very day.TakeawaysIf you're all in, be all in.Being all in is all about progression.It's not being stagnant, it's moving forward.Give back to the people you serve.Great backseat fireman, even with 30 years.Progression is key in emergency services.Skills learned should be shared.Commitment is essential in EMS.All in means more than just a job.It's about serving the community effectively.Check out Engine house Designs...Ignite the Pride https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/Registration is open for Bearers of the Oathhttps://www.bearersoftheoath.org/Check out NextRunghttps://www.nextrung.org/Check out all the sweet swag from Notorious Fire Co.https://notoriousfire.com/

In this episode I sit down with Chris Whyte. Chris emphasizes the critical role of building inspections in fire safety and emergency preparedness. He discusses the importance of being aware of a building's condition, even if one is not the primary inspector, and highlights the need for continuous assessment to identify potential risks.Chris is the Chairman of the NJ Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association, the team coordinator for the NJ Critical Incident Stress Management Team and runs the Garden State Size Up page. Chris is incredibly passionate about getting help to his fellow brothers and sisters in the 1st Responders field when they need it the most. On our episode we dive into his work with the NJ CISM Team and his love for building construction.TakeawaysIf your department is doing building inspections, you should still be looking around.Size up never stops.Soak in that building as much as you can when it's not on fire.Next time you might be there, it might be on fire.Knowing the condition of a building helps in emergency situations.Understanding risks is crucial for fire safety.Continuous assessment is key to preparedness.Inspectors should communicate findings effectively.Awareness of building conditions can save lives.Preparation is essential for effective emergency response.Check out Engine House Designshttps://www.enginehousedesigns.com/https://njcriticalincidentcollaborative.com/nextrung.org

In this episode, I get to sit down with Deputy Chief David Hall of the Franklin Fire Department in NH. DC Hall is a seasoned firefighter, instructor and Leader. David talks about his journey in the fire service. We discuss the importance of passion, mentorship, and community engagement in firefighting, as well as the challenges of recruitment and retention in the current landscape. David shares insights on maintaining enthusiasm in the profession, connecting with younger generations, and the vital role of EMS in modern fire departments. The conversation emphasizes the need for strong leadership and a positive culture within fire departments to foster growth and satisfaction among firefighters.TakeawaysDavid Hall shares his journey in the fire service.The importance of military experience in shaping a firefighter's career.Teaching is a passion that enhances the fire service experience.Maintaining passion is crucial for longevity in the fire service.Connecting with younger generations is essential for the future of firefighting.Training and mentorship are key components of a successful fire department.Community engagement fosters better training and relationships.Staffing challenges are prevalent in many fire departments today.EMS plays a vital role in the fire service and community support.Recruitment strategies must adapt to current challenges in the workforce.Creative approaches to recruitment can help fill gaps in staffing.Retention is heavily influenced by department culture and leadership.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Fire Service Journey02:24 Career Path and Military Background07:15 Teaching and Passion for Fire Service10:14 Maintaining Passion in the Fire Service14:02 Connecting with New Generations18:27 Training and Mentorship in Fire Service25:38 Community Engagement and Training Initiatives32:25 Department Overview and Staffing Challenges35:34 The Role of EMS in Fire Service39:03 Recruitment Challenges in the Fire Service45:02 Creative Recruitment Strategies51:50 Retention Strategies and Department Culture01:02:34 Succession Planning in Fire DepartmentsCheck out my online shop at Notorious Fire Co.https://notoriousfireshops.com/the_can_report/shop/homeCheck out Engine House Designs...Ignite the Pridehttps://www.enginehousedesigns.com/CAN

In this episode I had this opportunity to sit down with 3 men who I respect immensely...Nate Sturm, Ian Schulte and Dan Nowill. All three are respected leaders in their departments. They have years of experience, knowledge and growth. We dive into the critical themes of leadership within the fire service, emphasizing the importance of setting standards, learning from failures, and fostering open communication. My guests share their experiences and insights on recruitment, training, and the necessity of caring for personnel's mental health. We discuss the balance between education and practical experience, the significance of sharing knowledge, and the various leadership styles that can be effective in different situations. Our conversation highlights the need for compassion and support within the fire service community, advocating for a culture that prioritizes mental well-being and open dialogue.TakeawaysLeadership is about caring for your people.Setting clear expectations is crucial for success.Learning from failures is a key aspect of growth.Open communication fosters a supportive environment.Education and experience both play vital roles in leadership.Sharing knowledge strengthens the fire service community.Mental health support is essential for firefighters.Different leadership styles may be needed for different individuals.Creating a culture of openness can help combat stigma.Compassion and love are fundamental to effective leadership.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage01:53 Leadership in the Fire Service05:06 The Importance of Standards and Expectations10:53 Recruitment and Training Challenges16:02 Learning from Failures21:39 The Role of Education in Leadership25:41 The Importance of Education and Experience27:28 Lifelong Learning in the Fire Service29:05 Sharing Knowledge and Resources33:01 Leadership Styles and Their Impact41:10 Caring Leadership and Its Benefits48:19 Addressing Mental Health in the Fire Service54:59 Creating a Supportive Environment01:00:03 The Importance of Vulnerability and Openness01:03:05 Leadership and Caring for Your Team01:09:10 Conferences and Community EngagementCheck out our Sponsor Engine House Designs LLC...Ignite the Pride!https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/CANCatch this episode and others on my YouTube pagehttps://www.youtube.com/live/2s2PVMwMEIM?si=B2ybzW3bX32qThJU

In this episode I have the honor of talking with Rob Fisher , Rob shares his extensive experience in the fire service, emphasizing the importance of leadership, mentorship, and the role of organizations like the Fools. Rob discusses the challenges faced by leaders in the fire service, particularly in navigating generational differences and the need for effective communication. Our discussion also dives into the specifics of quint operations, advocating for a mindset that prioritizes ladder truck functions over engine functions. In our conversation, Rob Fisher provides valuable insights and advice for aspiring leaders and firefighters, highlighting the significance of reflection, networking, and continuous learning in achieving success in the fire service.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Fire Service04:53 Rob Fisher's Background and Experience09:29 The Importance of the Fools Organization18:24 Involvement in FDIC and Conference Culture27:21 Challenges in Leadership and Generational Differences38:41 The Importance of Readiness in Leadership41:30 Mentoring and Growth in Firefighting45:35 The Role of Reflection in Leadership52:22 Building Relationships for Success56:31 Quint Operations and Hose LoadsTakeawaysRob Fisher emphasizes the importance of mentorship in the fire service.The Fools organization plays a crucial role in fostering brotherhood and professional development.Leadership challenges often stem from generational differences in the workplace.Effective leaders must be willing to solve problems and take on challenges.Reflection is key to personal and professional growth in firefighting.Quints should be treated as ladder trucks first, with hose loads adjusted accordingly.Networking is essential for career advancement in the fire service.Rejection in the application process is common; persistence is crucial.Building relationships is vital for effective leadership and teamwork.Continuous learning and adaptation are necessary for success in the fire service.Check out Engine House Designs LLC- Use Discount Code NOZZLETOV to receive 20% off your order.https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/CANIf you are interested in joining a FOOLS chapter please visit https://www.foolsinternational.com/Check out FDIChttps://www.fdic.com/event-information/future-event-dates/Check out Brothers in Battlehttps://www.brothersinbattlellc.com/

In this episode, I had the honor of chatting with Eric Guida. We dive into the world of firefighting, focusing on the importance of nozzles, engine operations, and the innovative High Efficiency Nozzle (HEN). Eric shares his journey from aspiring veterinarian to seasoned firefighter, emphasizing the significance of mentorship and heart in the fire service. We discuss the benefits of smooth bore nozzles, the development of HEN, and the impact of new technologies like Turbo and Force nozzles on firefighting efficiency. Our conversation highlights the need for knowledge sharing and collaboration within the fire service to enhance safety and effectiveness in fire suppression. If this conversation peaks your interest about HEN Technologies, contact your rep for a demo today. If you are interested in joining the demo team, check out the HEN website for more information.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Nozzles and Fire Service Passion04:04 Eric Guida's Journey to Firefighting12:13 The Importance of Nozzle Work17:49 The High-Efficiency Nozzle (HEN) Explained21:01 The Story Behind HEN's Creation23:09 Innovative Shutoff Mechanisms25:51 Addressing Attack Package Challenges29:35 Training and Improving Firefighting Techniques33:08 Testing and Validation of Firefighting Equipment35:04 Innovative Nozzle Designs and Their Benefits38:11 Master Stream Nozzles: Titans and Their Impact42:16 Hydraulic Ventilation Techniques with New Nozzle Technology45:31 Advancements in Wildland Firefighting Equipment48:11 The Importance of Knowledge Sharing in the Fire ServiceMake sure to check out our Sponsor Engine House Designs for all of your clothing needs...from hats, flags, jackets...you name it, they got it! Enter my discount code NOZZLETOV for 10% for the month of October.https://www.enginehousedesigns.comhttps://www.hentechnologies.com/

In this episode I had the privilege to talk with Wayne Jones (Uncle Wayne). We explore the multifaceted world of the fire service, focusing on mentorship, training evolution, and the importance of building respect and communication between instructors and students. We discuss the challenges posed by COVID-19, the significance of physical conditioning, and the role of tough love in teaching. Wayne shares insights from his experience as a firefighter and instructor, emphasizing the need for authenticity in writing and the impact of mentorship on future generations. Our conversation highlights the sacrifices made by firefighters and the importance of celebrating successes within the team. Thank you Wayne for your insight, experience and knowledge. I encourage all of you to check out The Firefighters Chalkboard, his youtube channel and his many publications.TakeawaysMentorship starts on day one in the fire service.Setting expectations is crucial for effective teaching.Building respect is a two-way street between instructors and students.The evolution of training methods reflects changes in society.Tough love can be an effective teaching strategy.Physical conditioning is essential for firefighters.COVID-19 has impacted hands-on training for new recruits.Open communication fosters trust between instructors and students.Sharing knowledge is a responsibility of experienced firefighters.Authenticity in writing is vital for credibility.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Uncle Wayne and His Journey02:56 The Importance of Mentorship in Fire Service05:35 Setting Expectations and Building Respect08:39 Adapting Teaching Methods for Today's Recruits11:35 The Impact of COVID on Training and Learning14:20 Tough Love and Encouragement in Instruction17:00 The Role of Physical Conditioning in Firefighting20:10 Creating a Comfortable Learning Environment22:47 The Privilege of Teaching and Mentoring25:36 Wayne's Writing Journey and His Books34:29 The Duty of Mentorship37:07 The Role of AI in Writing41:59 The Importance of Passion in Writing48:30 Mentorship in the Fire Service54:45 Celebrating Success and Growthhttps://youtube.com/@thefirefighterschalkboard?si=QaXyIfOpQl57YA4Whttps://open.spotify.com/show/6nnwJtrgyKkWQ7vIuvElPA?si=30b0ab029e0641bfhttps://a.co/d/fp8fu5M "Step up to the Chalkboard" on Amazon

Colin Ward lays down some great info for truck ops and what his expectations are as a Captain of a truck company at the Old South FOOLs Fire Summit in Corinth, MS.Colin Ward is a Cadre member of Ambassadors of the Craft , if you would like to see what Colin Ward is up and learn some new skill sets and network with passionate individuals, check out March Mayhem and sign up for the conference coming this March.https://www.marchmayhemfireconference.com/https://www.aotctraining.com/

In this episode, I had the utmost pleasure to sit down with Miguel Baez, a dedicated firefighter from Lawrence, Massachusetts, who shares his incredible journey of resilience and hope. Miguel discusses his life-changing motorcycle accident that resulted in the amputation of his right leg and multiple serious injuries. Despite these challenges, he emerged with a renewed perspective on life, focusing on gratitude, community, and service to others. Miguel emphasizes the importance of mental health, faith, and maintaining a positive outlook. He shares how he overcame adversity through determination, humor, and a strong support system, ultimately returning to his firefighting duties. His story serves as a powerful testament to the human spirit's ability to triumph over obstacles.Timeline:Introduction: Miguel Baez is introduced as a firefighter with over 24 years of service and a survivor of a severe motorcycle accident.Early Life: Miguel shares his background, moving from the Dominican Republic to the U.S. at 14, and his early aspirations to become a firefighter. .Career Beginnings: He describes his journey into the fire service, including the challenges he faced and his determination to succeed. The Accident: Miguel recounts the details of his motorcycle accident on August 6, 2021, and the subsequent medical challenges, including a three-week coma. 5. Recovery and Resilience: He discusses his recovery process, the support from his fire department, and his unwavering determination to return to work. 6. Mental Health and Faith: Miguel emphasizes the role of mental health, meditation, and faith in his recovery and ongoing life. 7. Inspiration and Advocacy: He shares his commitment to inspiring others, particularly those facing similar challenges, and his work with amputees and firefighters. 8. Conclusion: The conversation wraps up with Miguel's reflections on life, gratitude, and his ongoing journey to inspire and support others.

On this episode, I had the privilege to talk with Brian Bonar, a passionate young firefighter from Colorado. We discuss Brian's journey from being an EMT to a firefighter, his involvement in the March Mayhem Fire Conference, and his experiences with the Ambassadors of the Craft. Brian shares personal stories about his family, his motivations, and the challenges he has faced along the way. Our conversation also touches on the importance of brotherhood and mentorship in the fire service.Brian is an extremely passionate and energetic young man with a very bright and promising future ahead of him. Brian is an accomplished photographer, firefighter, student and instructor. Brian has had to deal with extreme tragedy in his young life, but he continues on working harder than ever and never uses the trauma in his life as a crutch. It was an absolute pleasure to get to know Brian and I can't wait to have him on again. I hope you all enjoy learning about Brian, as much as I did. https://www.aotctraining.com/https://www.marchmayhemfireconference.com/https://www.760firephoto.com/