Claim OwnershipFire Engineering Podcast Network
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Fire Engineering Magazine’s been devoted to the training interests of firefighters since 1877. Listen to our lineup of podcasts featuring hosts from around the fire service.
317 Episodes
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On the latest episode of the Women in Fire podcast, the panel discusses the ways evolving technology reshapes the fire service landscape. They discuss groundbreaking tools like drones, thermal imaging, and wearable devices, all of which enhance operational safety and efficiency. During the conversation, they also explore AI’s role in policy development and communication, weighing its benefits and challenges. Social media’s growing influence on recruitment and public perception is analyzed, alongside the struggle to balance digital engagement with team connection. The panel highlights technology’s integration in EMS, gear decontamination practices triggered by new research, and sophisticated data use for inspections and incident management. They also confront concerns about overreliance on technology, emphasizing the need for foundational firefighting skills and backup plans when systems fail.
This episode features:
Lisa Baker, Southwest Trustee, Women in Fire (host)
Heather Mozdean, deputy chief, Fremont (CA) Fire Department
Kat Desonier, firefighter/paramedic, Evans (CO) Fire District
For the latest Humpday Hangout, host Frank Ricci welcomes David Polikoff, Robert “RJ” James, and Dave McGlynn. They get into the art of creating effective training props without breaking the budget. The panel shares strategies for sourcing materials, from scrap wood and pallets to discarded furniture and garage door parts. They highlight creative partnerships with local businesses and housing authorities, among other local organizations. Stressing the importance of a clearly defined mission for training projects and engaging firefighters through hands-on team-building involvement, they also emphasize the value of recognizing contributors with framed thank you notes and social media shout-outs to foster ongoing support.
Mentioned in the episode: https://youtu.be/p6vZNnruYKU?si=m9t-HZ19hVKndI65
In this episode of the Backstep Boys, hosts Ron Kanterman and Tom Aurnhammer take a careful look at the firefighting world’s toughest battle yet: cancer. As they announce the final year of their 15-year podcast journey, they reflect on the ongoing tragedies in public assembly fires worldwide and stress the urgent need for change beyond just fire marshals. Sharing personal stories of early cancer detection and recovery they touch on the critical role of brotherhood, highlighting how two-thirds of today’s firefighters face cancer risks far above the norm.
The discussion also covers practical advice covers including early screening, gear decontamination, and several ways to practice self-care. They also discuss the uphill fight against political and industry resistance to stronger safety measures, and the importance of shifting department cultures to prioritize health.
In this episode of Tactical Impact, guest cohost Steve Olshwanger joins hosts Jim Silvernail and Jason Hoevelmann for a discussion about fireground tactics and training. They welcome guest David "DJ" Stone and highlight some of his current work as well as his 2026 FDIC class, "The Grab Analysis."
The conversation stresses the critical role of proactive, intentional training led by engaged officers to build confident crews ready for modern firefighting challenges. Olshwanger's approach to fostering a positive station culture resonates throughout.
In this episode of the Point of Origin podcast, hosts Billy Hux and Bobby Drake get into the complexities of fire service legislation with guest Dr. Spencer Willet, a Virginia firefighter and EMT who is deeply involved in legislative efforts. They explore how the legislative season impacts firefighters and fire marshals, highlighting the importance of a unified voice across volunteer and career departments. Willet shares insights from his work in Virginia’s state capital and discusses ways firefighters can engage with lawmakers, even when time and resources are tight. They address challenges like code cycles and emerging safety issues like electric vehicle fires. They also talk about the crucial role fire chiefs play in empowering their teams to participate.
This episode originally ran on December 26, 2024.
What's on your streets and in your first-due area? Host Chris Naum shares some thoughts on building construction resolutions for the new year.
In this episode of Two Vollies and a Guest, veteran firefighter and training expert Jerry Herbst dives into practical fire attack strategies that every department needs. With 45 years in the fire service and extensive experience as a training officer and equipment specialist, Herbst breaks down the critical relationship between hose sizing, nozzle reaction, and flow rates. He stresses the importance of flow testing with gauges and meters to move beyond unreliable friction loss estimates.
Herbst also shares proven tactics for managing larger lines like 2½-inch hose and portable deck guns, emphasizing consistency and efficiency. This is especially critical when manpower is limited. Throughout the discussion, he highlights the need for effective, repeatable plays that prioritize safety and occupant survival.
On this episode of The Professional Volunteer Fire Department, Dave Denniston, fire commissioner, Virgil (NY) Fire District, and past chief of department, Cortlandville (NY) Fire Department, joins host Tom Merrill to discuss driving with due regard and embracing the mindset that just because the pager activates or the rooftop siren sounds does not mean members need to respond with lights and sirens. The two practical solutions and ideas for ensuring all members drive with due regard.
In this episode of Generation Engine, Mike Rumsey reflects on his 34-year firefighting career spanning Georgia's Cherokee County and the city of Atlanta. He contrasts “the good old days,” shaped by smaller crews and blue-collar roots, with today’s fast-paced, data-driven fire service. The discussion explores the ways evolving safety protocols like rapid intervention team drills have enhanced firefighter training without dampening their aggressive spirit. Growing call volumes, skyrocketing housing costs, and shifting priorities around work-life balance pose new challenges in recruitment and retention. Rumsey also emphasizes the necessity of strong, positive leadership to combat workplace toxicity and support firefighters’ personal goals. Communication, accountability, and genuine care stand out as critical to maintaining morale and performance. While technology and social media expose firefighters to more knowledge than ever, the core of the job remains teamwork and adapting culture to meet today’s realities on the fireground and in life.
This podcast is brought to you by TheFireStore. https://www.TheFireStore.com
In this episode of The Command Post, hosts Rick Lasky and John Salka explore what it truly takes to create outstanding fire service teams. Drawing on decades of firsthand experience from iconic departments like FDNY and emerging leaders in Texas, they discuss how disciplined training at the academy lays the groundwork for transforming new recruits into confident, competent firefighters.
The conversation highlights the importance of strong leadership, mentoring, and tailored coaching, balancing toughness with care, to move individuals from weakness through strength to greatness. They examine the diversity of leadership styles and personalities that contribute to a resilient, high-performing firehouse culture.
Mayday Monday marks its 50th episode with a closeup look into a harrowing gas explosion incident in Loudoun County, Virginia. Fairfax County (VA) Battalion Chief Matt Burns, who directed crews from Loudoun County (VA) Rescue 635 and Fairfax County Rescue 493 along with other responding units, shares his frontline experience responding to this catastrophic event.
Burns details the challenges of hazardous conditions, communication breakdowns, and rapid decision-making under pressure. The discussion reveals the complexity of coordinating volunteer and career firefighters, highlights the critical importance of knowing your teams and areas, and underscores how practiced radio protocols can save lives. Burns recounts the intense efforts to rescue trapped firefighters amid collapsed structures and thick smoke, illustrating the resilience and adaptability demanded by such emergencies.
In this episode of Fireground Strategies, hosts Anthony Avillo and Jim Duffy talk about journeys transitioning into leadership roles within new fire departments. They welcome guests Jim Trzaski, chief of the Middletown South (CT) Fire District, and Jim Buck, chief of the Wallingford (CT) Fire Department. During their discussion, the guests reveal the realities of stepping into established cultures, managing both operational and political challenges, and earning trust from seasoned personnel. Their experiences highlight the importance of listening, building authentic relationships, and embracing collaboration across ranks to drive meaningful change. Trzaski and Buck also discuss succession planning, adapting to differing department sizes, and the critical balance between authority and responsibility.
In this episode of Perspectives on Leadership, host Steve Shaw sits down with Mark Rossi to explore what truly makes a firehouse crew great. With 20 years in the fire service, Rossi shares lessons on fostering trust, empowering team members, and creating a culture where every role, from rookie to seasoned firefighter, matters. He emphasizes the power of genuine connection, ongoing training, and leading by example to build resilient, motivated teams that rise to any challenge. Rossi also reflects on the importance of honoring tradition through his volunteer work with the Black Pearl Pipes and Drums, and offers candid thoughts on preparing for retirement.
In this episode of The Larry Conley Show, host Larry Conley sits down with his son Joshua to explore the unique challenges firefighters face in balancing family life and the demands of their profession. Reflecting on over a decade of fire service experience and recent personal losses, Larry emphasizes the importance of not letting the firefighting family overshadow family at home. Joshua shares his perspective on growing up with a firefighter dad, revealing the complexities that come with irregular shifts, missed holidays, and the emotional distance that sometimes follows.
With candid, unpolished conversation and mutual respect, they discuss how personal leadership starts at home, and how nurturing those relationships strengthens one’s ability to lead effectively in the field.
During this episode of Fire Service Data and Tech Talk, host Eddie Buchanan welcomes Mike Cox, director of Fire & EMS Solutions, Esri; Baylie Scott, research scientist for UL Research Institutes’ Fire Safety Research Institute; and Jason Orellana, community risk reduction specialist for the Cape Coral (FL) Fire Department.
During this discussion on leveraging data for community risk reduction in the age of NERIS, the panel experts talk about what to expect from the new NERIS platform and how fire departments can make the most of this new system. No matter the size of your department or if don't have a formal CRR function yet, you can learn how to leverage these new data capabilities.
In this episode of The Training Officer, host Dave McGlynn welcomes Billy Hux, the chief state fire marshal in Virginia. Hux brings nearly three decades of fire service experience to the conversation, which explores the critical role of fire marshals, including code enforcement, fire prevention, arson investigation, and public education. During the discussion, Hux sheds light on the complexity of code adoption and enforcement, the evolving nature of fire service training, and the vital need for ongoing education in the face of new hazards like energy storage systems. The conversation also addresses leadership challenges, including succession planning and bridging generational gaps within the fire service.
On this episode of Hooks & Hoses, host Eric Dreiman welcomes Assistant Chief Brandon Roark from the South Bend (IN) Fire Department. They discuss Roark's program, “The High-Functioning Dysfunctional Fire Department," and Roark reflects on personal experiences from his life and career as he explains the process of developing high-functioning teams.
This podcast is brought to you by TheFireStore. https://www.TheFireStore.com
This episode of Fire Service Court explores the complex role NFPA standards play in firefighting operations, criminal cases, and civil litigation. Hosts Brad Pinsky, John K. Murphy, Chip Comstock, and Curt Varone discuss how failing to understand or comply with NFPA guidelines can lead to devastating outcomes, including jail time and a multi-million-dollar lawsuit. They examine a 2002 New York case where ignorance of NFPA standards led to criminal manslaughter charges, illustrating the real-life stakes of compliance.
The panel stresses that while NFPA standards are valuable safety benchmarks, they are not absolute law. They highlight the critical need for fire departments to audit compliance, educate personnel, and engage expert legal and operational defense. Through practical advice, including checklist implementation and risk management, this episode equips firefighters and chiefs to protect both their teams and their departments from legal and safety pitfalls.
This podcast is brought to you by TheFireStore. https://www.TheFireStore.com
Marking the end of year two for the Talkin' Tactics podcast, hosts Robert "RJ" James, lieutenant from Frederick County (MD) Fire and Rescue; Sam Villani, battalion chief from Montgomery County (MD) Fire and Rescue; and David Polikoff, assistant chief from Frederick County Fire and Rescue, reflect on their individual journeys, fire service leadership challenges, and their plans for 2026. They emphasize the importance of early preparation for promotional exams, mentoring future leaders, and maintaining clear communication and discipline. They also look ahead to upcoming training opportunities, policy updates, and FDIC 2026.
This podcast is brought to you by TheFireStore. https://www.TheFireStore.com
In this episode of The Backstep Boys, hosts Ron Kanterman and Tom Aurnhammer explore the nuances of fire service culture, leadership challenges, and the legacy that shapes today’s firefighters. From Aurnhammer's long-awaited trip to a West Point football game, rich with history and tradition, to profound discussions on organizational culture inspired by pioneers like Edgar Schein and Dr. Kim Allen, the conversation unpacks the ways culture drives behavior, impacts safety, and defines leadership effectiveness. This episode offers a thought-provoking look at what it truly means to lead and belong in the fire service today.
This podcast is brought to you by TheFireStore. https://www.TheFireStore.com
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