The Overhaul Podcast

In this episode of the Overhaul Podcast, Preston Lyons sits down with Haley Scellick, nurse practitioner and co-founder of First Responder Health and Wellness, to address a hard truth: many first responders are operating in chronic stress and calling it “normal.”Haley explains how fatigue, poor sleep, mood swings, weight gain, and declining performance are often early signs of hormonal imbalance and stress dysregulation — not just part of the job. She breaks down cardiovascular risk in the fire service, the impact of shift work on hormones, and why proactive lab work and individualized care matter.The conversation challenges the reactive culture of “wait until something breaks” and replaces it with a preventative, data-driven approach to health. From nutrition and sleep hygiene to stress physiology and telemedicine solutions, this episode is a blueprint for protecting your longevity — both in your career and at home.If you’re serious about staying strong, sharp, and present for your family, this conversation matters.

What happens when you chase the American dream… and end up chasing purpose instead?In this episode, Helton Pereira shares his powerful journey from Brazil to becoming a firefighter in the United States. But this isn’t just a story about career progression — it’s about alignment. Faith. Family. Mentorship. And learning to put first things first.Helton opens up about navigating burnout, rediscovering passion for the job, and building a marriage and home life that thrives alongside the demands of the fire service. He speaks candidly about the importance of fostering a positive firehouse culture, mentoring the next generation, and leading by example—not just in turnout gear, but in everyday life.We also dive into Helton’s upcoming First Things First Conference, designed to strengthen community, character, and connection within the fire service.If you’ve ever felt the weight of the job, struggled to balance career and family, or questioned how to sustain passion long-term, this conversation is for you.Because the job matters.But the order matters more.

In this engaging conversation, Preston Lyons and Daniel Massa explore the intersections of personal growth, martial arts, and firefighting. They discuss Daniel's upbringing in the Bronx, his experiences with bullying, and how martial arts helped him build confidence. The conversation transitions into Daniel's journey into the fire service, highlighting the importance of family legacy and the integration of martial arts into firefighting. They also delve into the significance of breath work in managing stress and enhancing performance in high-pressure situations. In this conversation, Daniel Massa shares his journey into breathwork, highlighting its transformative effects on mental health, performance, and overall well-being. He discusses the importance of proper breathing techniques, especially for firefighters and first responders, and how breath control can significantly impact stress management and emergency response. The dialogue also touches on the mechanics of breathing, the role of the diaphragm, and practical exercises to improve breath efficiency. Massa emphasizes the community aspect of breathwork and its potential to aid those dealing with PTSD and other mental health challenges.

In this episode of the Overhaul Podcast, Preston Lyons interviews Jeremy Barker, a former firefighter turned successful entrepreneur. Jeremy shares his journey from living in his car to building Murphy Door, a leading hidden door brand. He discusses the importance of family support, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the unique dynamics of brotherhood in the fire service. The conversation delves into mindset shifts, resilience, and the lessons learned from failure, emphasizing that true freedom comes from overcoming challenges and pursuing personal growth. In this conversation, Jeremy Barker shares his journey from being a firefighter to becoming a successful entrepreneur. He emphasizes the importance of valuing one's worth, the discipline required in business, and the significance of setting big goals. The discussion also touches on the mental health challenges faced by firefighters, the power of kindness, and the value of learning from all walks of life. Jeremy encourages listeners to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams while maintaining a servant's heart and a focus on community.

In this episode of the Overhaul Podcast, Dr. Tony Dice shares his remarkable journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a firefighter, EMT, and ultimately a Navy SEAL. He discusses the struggles with addiction that followed his military service and the challenges of transitioning to civilian life. Dr. Dice's story highlights the importance of resilience, the impact of mental health, and the journey to recovery, culminating in a powerful message of hope and transformation. In this conversation, Dr. Dice shares his profound journey from addiction to recovery, emphasizing the importance of connection, storytelling, and resilience. He discusses the pivotal moments that led him to become a therapist and how he now helps others navigate their own struggles with addiction. The dialogue explores the holistic approach to recovery, the significance of community support, and the transformative power of sharing personal experiences. Dr. Dice encourages listeners to reach out for help and highlights that recovery is a journey that can lead to a fulfilling life beyond addiction.

In this episode of the Overhaul Podcast, host Preston Lyons speaks with newly promoted Lieutenant Jenny Grima, who shares her unique journey from a biology major to a firefighter. Jenny discusses the challenges she faced in the fire service, the importance of maintaining a work-life balance, and how she turned failures into opportunities for growth. She emphasizes the significance of mental health and personal time, and reflects on her experiences teaching and mentoring others in the field. The conversation highlights the evolving nature of the fire service and the need for continuous learning and adaptation. In this conversation, Jenny Grima shares her journey in the fire service, discussing the challenges she faced as a female firefighter, including doubts, imposter syndrome, and the importance of mentorship. She emphasizes the significance of mental toughness, self-care, and finding a supportive community. Jenny also highlights her holistic approach to wellness and the transformative impact of programs like 75 Hard on her life. Ultimately, she encourages others to pursue their passions and find their tribe.

In this episode of the Overhaul Podcast, Preston Lyons reflects on the past year, discusses the evolution of the podcast from Relentless Rejects to The Overhaul, and emphasizes the importance of personal growth, mentorship, and legacy in the fire service. He shares his vision for 2026 and the collective effort needed to improve the culture and leadership within the fire service community.

In this episode of the Overhaul Podcast, Preston Lyons sits down with Captain Jay Bonnifield of the Everett Fire Department for a deep dive into what actually shapes a great firefighter and officer.Jay shares the personal side first—overcoming academic struggles, repeatedly testing to get hired, and the sacrifices his wife and family made along the way. From there, the conversation transitions into what truly separates competent firefighters from dangerous ones: decision-making under pressure.They break down:The go/no-go process on the residential firegroundWhy understanding fire behavior is non-negotiableExterior vs. interior attack through the lens of survivabilityThe responsibilities of the nozzleman during rescue operationsWhy live fire training is critical to developing intuitionThe importance of post-knockdown discipline and proceduresHow mentorship and frameworks build instinct before the fire ever happensJay emphasizes that great fireground performance isn’t about heroics—it’s about hierarchy, clarity, and repetition. The officers and firefighters who operate calmly under stress do so because they’ve built a framework that guides their decisions.This episode is about family, discipline, fire dynamics, and the responsibility to raise the standard in the fire service.

In this episode of the Overhaul Podcast, Captain Jake Dickes shares his journey in the fire service, emphasizing the importance of family, faith, and community. He discusses the challenges of promotion, the need for positive leadership, and the significance of realistic training. Dix highlights the role of passion in firefighting and the necessity of addressing negativity within the firehouse. He concludes with a powerful analogy about the goat head plant, illustrating the multifaceted approach needed to foster a positive culture in the fire service.

This episode of the Overhaul podcast features a deep dive into the life and career of Chief Chris Wessels, exploring his 34-year journey in the fire service, the importance of family, and the lessons learned along the way. The conversation touches on leadership, mentorship, and the balance between aggression and safety in firefighting.

In this episode of the Overhaul podcast, Preston Lyons speaks with Dr. Leah Kaylor, a psychologist specializing in sleep hygiene for first responders and military veterans. They discuss the importance of sleep, its connection to mental health, and practical strategies to improve sleep quality. Dr. Kaylor shares her journey into sleep psychology, the challenges first responders face with sleep, and the significance of establishing a consistent sleep routine. The conversation emphasizes the need for awareness of sleep issues and the impact of lifestyle choices on sleep quality.

In this engaging conversation, Preston Lyons and Mike Stickers Goldstein discuss their upcoming participation in the March Mayhem conference, focusing on the importance of networking, learning, and collaboration in the fire service. They delve into the unique experiences offered by pod classes, the value of live fire training, and the significance of overcoming ego in a training environment. The discussion highlights the need for diverse training opportunities and the importance of mentorship and community within the firefighting profession. In this engaging conversation, the hosts delve into the critical aspects of firefighting, emphasizing the importance of firefighter IQ, fitness, and innovative training techniques. They discuss the unique challenges faced by rural firefighters and the significance of rapid intervention teams. The conversation also highlights the need for specialized training for engineers and the evolving nature of fire ground operations, particularly in high-rise buildings. Networking and community building within the firefighting profession are underscored as essential elements for success and growth.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Conference Excitement02:38 The Pod Class Experience06:35 Networking and Learning Opportunities10:51 Instructor Highlights and Class Expectations14:32 Hands-On Training and Live Fire Experiences20:22 The Importance of Failure in Learning24:58 Ego and Comfort in Learning Environments30:00 Instructor Interactions and Building Connections31:13 Hot Classes and Training Fundamentals33:52 Gaining Confidence for Fireground Success36:06 Training and Gear Responsibility38:04 The Importance of Communication with Departments41:03 Embracing Knowledge Transfer in Fire Training41:52 The Role of Thermal Imaging in Firefighting42:59 Understanding Live Fire Training Classes44:18 The Dagum Promise: A Commitment to Rescue47:47 Mastering Basic Skills for Fireground Incidents49:05 Developing Firefighter IQ Beyond the Door50:34 Fitness and Health in Firefighting52:12 The Reality of Rural Firefighting55:33 The Importance of Engineer Training01:01:11 Rural Fire Tactics and Limited Staffing01:03:20 Embracing Challenges and Growth01:04:14 Essential Training for Modern Firefighting01:06:25 Innovative Approaches to Fire Operations01:08:16 Understanding Standpipe Operations01:10:30 The Importance of Primary Search Techniques01:14:01 Data-Driven Training for Firefighters01:19:43 Leveraging Social Media for Firefighter Education01:25:08 Final Thoughts and Conference Insights

SummaryIn this episode of the Overall Podcast, host Preston Lyons speaks with Felix Manjarrez, a seasoned firefighter with 23 years of experience in the FDNY. They discuss Felix's journey into the fire service, the evolution of his motivations, the culture of brotherhood within firefighting, and the challenges faced in the 911 system. The conversation also touches on the importance of mental health, managing burnout, and the role of jiu-jitsu in enhancing physical fitness and mental resilience for firefighters. Felix shares his candid views on diversity and inclusion in the fire service, emphasizing the need for competence over mere representation. In this conversation, Felix Manjarrez discusses the critical role of the Health and Fitness Unit in the fire academy, emphasizing the importance of physical training, functional skills training, and the impact of mentorship on probationary firefighters. He shares insights on managing stress, prioritizing sleep, and the significance of nutrition and hydration for first responders. Felix also highlights the need for community building within the firehouse and the importance of down-regulation techniques to improve overall well-being. He advocates for holistic approaches to health, including the use of THC and CBD for recovery, and encourages firefighters to make proactive changes in their lives to enhance their performance and longevity in the field.https://matafuegotraining.com/

In this episode of the Overhaul Podcast, Chief Eddie Robinson shares his extensive experience in the fire service, emphasizing the importance of commitment, family, and legacy. He discusses the significance of brotherhood and how it starts within the firehouse, as well as the challenges of navigating generational differences in the workforce. Chief Robinson advocates for an aggressive firefighting culture and emphasizes the importance of accountability among team members. He also highlights the importance of leadership and the responsibility of fire chiefs to be present and engaged with their teams. The conversation concludes with a focus on rebranding the fire department to foster a positive culture and community impact.

In this episode of the Overhaul podcast, Preston Lyons speaks with Rob Wilson, a performance educator who specializes in training first responders and military personnel. They discuss the importance of self-care and performance longevity in high-stress professions, such as firefighting. Rob introduces the 'Check Engine Light' analogy to help first responders recognize personal health signals and emphasizes the need for a culture of wellness within the fire service. The conversation also addresses the challenges faced by younger generations of first responders, the balance between physical strength and cardiovascular fitness, and the importance of monitoring health indicators to prevent catastrophic performance failures. In this conversation, Rob Wilson discusses the importance of managing stress and health risks, particularly for first responders. He emphasizes the need for long-term health strategies, building a personal health toolkit, and creating supportive systems within communities. The discussion also covers effective decompression techniques and the significance of fostering a culture of encouragement and accountability among peers.

In this episode of The Overhaul, host Preston Lyons of Relentless Rejects sits down with Andrew Johnston to dive into the heart of what makes great firefighters—and great leaders. From the lessons learned at the LCC Fire School to the importance of building strong relationships, Andrew opens up about the challenges of leadership, navigating imposter syndrome, and how staying grounded can make all the difference.And because leadership isn’t just about tactics and titles, Preston and Andrew also bring in some inspiration from an unlikely coach: Ted Lasso. Expect a mix of fire service grit, honest reflection, and a little humor to keep things real.Tune in for a conversation that’s equal parts training, leadership, and personal growth—with insights you can carry back to the firehouse and beyond.

In this episode of the Overhaul podcast, host Preston Lyons from the Relentless Rejects engages with Rob Policht, a company officer and founder of Flow and Vant. They discuss the importance of family support in the fire service, Rob's unexpected journey into firefighting, and the unique challenges of leadership, especially during crises like COVID-19. The conversation emphasizes the need for continuous learning, credibility, and accountability in leadership roles, as well as the significance of playing the long game in career development and fostering a supportive firehouse culture. In this engaging conversation, Rob and Preston delve into the themes of legacy, communication, and the importance of promoting a strong firehouse culture. They discuss the significance of training and the evolution of Flow Invent, emphasizing the need for firefighters to seize every opportunity and to consider their impact on the community. The dialogue highlights the balance between personal growth and collective responsibility within the fire service.

In this episode of The Overhaul Podcast, host Preston Lyons from the Relentless Rejects engages with Captain Todd Edwards, a seasoned fire service professional, discussing the importance of family support, continuous learning, and the challenges of company officer development. They explore the evolving nature of fire service conferences, the critical role of company officers in shaping future firefighters, and the need for effective training for acting officers. The conversation emphasizes the traits that distinguish great company officers, including humility, communication skills, and an understanding of their crew's personal lives. In this conversation, Todd discusses his leadership philosophy in the fire service, emphasizing the importance of trust, humility, and realistic training. He highlights common mistakes made by company officers, such as the blame game and arrogance, and stresses the need for a strong crew identity built through consistent training. Todd also elaborates on the significance of command presence and how it is developed through experience and training, ultimately reinforcing the positive impact firefighters have on their communities.

In this episode of the Overhaul Podcast, host Preston Lyons engages with Chief Brian Brush, discussing the importance of family, community, and brotherhood in the fire service. They explore the need for a positive shift in mindset, the significance of education and training, and the challenges of recruitment. Chief Brush shares insights on building a search culture, understanding NFPA standards, and the impact of health on firefighters. The conversation emphasizes the importance of legacy and continuous improvement in the fire service.

In this episode of the Relentless Rejects podcast, host Preston Lyons discusses the importance of mental health in the fire service with Blake Stinnett, co-founder of Next Rung, and the initiatives taken to support first responders. They delve into personal stories, the impact of family, and the mission of Next Rung to provide peer support and resources for mental health. The conversation also explores community engagement through podcasts and events, such as Bearers of the Oath, highlighting the importance of a supportive network within the fire service. In this conversation, Blake Stinnett shares his insights on the importance of brotherhood, mission-minded culture, and leadership within the fire service. He discusses his personal journey through a life-altering accident, emphasizing the resilience and support from the community that helped him recover. The dialogue underscores the importance of intentional relationships among firefighters and the significance of mental health awareness within the profession..