National Fire Radio Podcast Platform

This week, another street talk from Manhattan‘s Washington Square Park, Mickey dives into one of the most misunderstood responsibilities on the fireground: how the Outside Vent firefighter enters the window. It’s not random momentum or blind commitment—there’s technique, tempo, and intention behind every move. We break down body position, control, and how to use that skill to your advantage without compromising orientation, flow path, or search integrity.

Jeremy and Dave Gallagher explore the importance of connection, mentorship, and the evolving challenges within the fire service. They discuss the significance of quality training, the need for depth over breadth in knowledge, and the commitment required to succeed in firefighting. The conversation also highlights the importance of capturing the stories and experiences of seasoned firefighters to pass on to future generations, emphasizing the value of tradition and camaraderie in the fire service.

In this weeks conclusion with Pete Partridge, the conversation delves into the complexities of the fire service, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive learning, practical experience, and mentorship. They discusses the limitations of social media as a learning tool, the necessity of understanding the broader context of firefighting, and the critical role of experience in effective leadership. The dialogue also highlights the significance of networking and mentorship in the fire service, the adaptability required in firefighting tactics, and the deep sense of brotherhood that characterizes the profession. Ultimately, the conversation calls for a commitment to preserving the legacy and values of the fire service for future generations.

Patrick Wirkus joins Jeremy in the studio for today’s episode. A Battalion Chief with the Elizabeth, NJ Fire Department, Patrick has 13 years with the department and serves in an administration role currently with the department. His passion is for the Fireground and he often finds himself getting in on work across the city and surrounding jurisdictions. He recognizes the importance of having a seat at the table and crafting administration programs that can help with the growth of the department. He is attending the National Fire Academy and is working towards his EFO. Pulling from his roots of riding with busy companies, he is aware of fireground dynamics and is passionate about including Division Officers during fires. Patrick has created Division Command Training and is speaking about this important topic. Balancing family, the fire department and a new business, his plate is full but he recognizes the importance of time management and “balance”. Patrick Wirkus can be reached at info@divisioncommandtraining,.com. 

In this episode, Mickey discusses the concept of transitional attack in firefighting, emphasizing its implications on fireground coordination and firefighter safety. He critiques the reliance on outside water as a default tactic, arguing that it disrupts the tempo and coordination necessary for effective firefighting. Mickey advocates for position-based firefighting, highlighting the importance of protecting interior access points and maintaining a disciplined approach to fire attacks. He concludes by urging firefighters to rely on common sense and teamwork rather than overcomplicating tactics.

Jeremy and Matthew Bays delve into the critical themes of mentorship, training, and the evolving culture within the fire service. They discuss the importance of clear expectations, the challenges of attracting talent to high-performing firehouses, and the need for a positive training environment. Matt shares insights on the systematic approach to training new recruits, emphasizing the significance of building skills to become second nature. The discussion also touches on the generational differences in training methods, the role of patience in personal growth, and the necessity of maintaining high standards in firefighting. Ultimately, the conversation highlights the importance of trust, effective communication, and the value of learning from mistakes in the fire service.

In this episode, Larry Di Camillo discusses his recent retirement after over 35 years of service, including his role as a fire chief. He reflects on the importance of shared vision and collaboration within the fire department, emphasizing the need for open communication and feedback. Larry shares insights on the evolution of fire apparatus and the challenges of maintaining operational efficiency while adapting to new trends. He also talks about his consulting work with C-Side Consulting, where he continues to engage with fire departments across the country, sharing his expertise and helping them improve their operations.

In this episode of View from the Top Floor, Mickey is on the road in Reno, Nevada, where he breaks down “the area of refuge,” what it means, where it’s found, and why it matters. Too often, it’s a tactic that’s misunderstood or overlooked, but it can mean the difference between control and chaos for the inside team.

The Shimek has become a regular on the show and Jeremy's therapist. Another great session talking about food, The First-In Fire Conference and the "Third In Mindset".

Operating on the Highway at Accidents — One of the most dangerous firegrounds we face isn’t inside a burning building, it’s on the highway. In this shot episode, Mickey explains why roadway operations are so deadly, the stats on line-of-duty deaths, and some common sense to keep you and your company alive and available for our next fire. 

This conversation Ray McCormack joins Mickey in Wildwood New Jersey as they dive into the evolving landscape of the fire service, focusing on the importance of tradition, culture, and training. They discuss how these elements are crucial for maintaining standards and ensuring effective operations. They also emphasize the need for strong leadership and communication within firehouses, as well as the significance of understanding the details in firefighting techniques. The dialogue also touches on the challenges posed by modern practices, such as dry stretching, and the necessity of preserving the rich history and traditions of the fire service.

This episode is a portion of Jeremy’s new program titled, “Winners Win”, A Program by a Recovering Loser. Presented at the First In Fire Conference in Little Rock, AR on September 12, 2025, this segment of the complete program discusses accountability, leadership and going all in. The entire program will be posted at a later date.

In this episode of "Frontline Mindset," host Rob sits down with Luci Labriola-Cuffe, Deputy State Fire Administrator for New York State. Luci shares her inspiring journey from childhood experiences with fire emergencies to becoming a trailblazer in the fire service. They discuss the challenges and triumphs of leadership, the importance of mental health in first responders, and the evolving landscape of fire service training and community risk reduction. Tune in for an insightful conversation about resilience, accountability, and the future of firefighting.

From Recruit Construction to Work Life Balance, this episode between Jeremy and The Shimek is becoming a weekly therapy session for Jeremy. Alot of great nuggets in this episode.

In this episode, Mickey breaks down the term “taxpayer” in its truest form—where it came from, what it really means, and why it still matters on today’s fireground. From cellar fires to cockloft conditions, taxpayers demand a different level of awareness and discipline. We’ll dive into survival techniques, tactical considerations, and the realities of operating in commercial buildings where one wrong step can change the outcome. This isn’t theory—it’s street-level talk on how to stay alive and stay effective when the game shifts from residential to commercial.

Bobby Eckert joins Jeremy on the podcast for episode 426. The leader of Eckert Fire Tactics, his passion cannot be denied when it comes to his commitment to training firefighters. Focusing on realistic training, Bobby and his crew are known for going all in on their students. Bobby has never been one to shy away from hard conversations and addressing the toxicity in the fire service. Admittedly, he has had personal struggles that he has had to focus on and he is making progress everyday. His willingness to be frank about what he has been dealing with can certainly help others who might be in a similar situation. Being so public, it certainly shines a light on him whether he wants it or not. Just like his training perspective, if his real life situations and lessons can help another firefighter, he is all in. A long time friend and early guest on the podcast back in August 2018, Bobby continues to make an impact on the fire service. 

Richard Ray, a Battalion Chief with the Durham, NC Fire Department and long time volunteer firefighter talks with Jeremy about his recent article in Fire Engineering magazine. His passion for the fire service spans decades and he reminisces about his early years being influenced by his grandfather and then, his father. Today, his children are now the fourth generation in the fire service and Richard is proud of the family’s love for the fire service. Thinking back to a time when he became and instructor, an encounter with Andy Fredericks set the table for his passion for teaching and making an impact on others. 

Mickey sits down to talk about the weight of memorials in our fire houses. He stresses the responsibility of maintaining them, knowing the stories of the brothers who came before us, and teaching the next generation that September 11th is not a celebration — it’s a day of remembrance.

Mickey sits down with Etan Blatt from the 34.3 Foundation — an organization built on honoring sacrifice, restoring pride, and giving new life to firefighters who may feel lost. The conversation dives into the rebirth the Foundation offers for those searching for purpose, while also showing the newest members of the FDNY what it truly means to be a New York City firefighter. They talk about patriotism through the lens of September 12 — the day after, when resilience and brotherhood defined the job — and how those lessons still carry weight today. Etan and Mickey also break down the 34.3 Foundation Run: the powerful tradition of running from Long Beach to the Trade Center on September 11, as well as the new 3.43-mile run in Long Beach — both uniting the community, raising support, and keeping the spirit alive.This episode is about tradition, rebirth, and the responsibility we all carry to keep the standard alive.