Best Firefighting Podcasts (2025)

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409. The Professor - Glenn Corbett 1:48:37

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17h ago1:48:37

1:48:37

In this conversation, Jeremy Donch and Glenn Corbett explore the rich history and traditions of the fire service, emphasizing the importance of understanding the past for new recruits. They discuss personal journeys in the fire service, the evolution of training and education, and the critical role of building construction in firefighter safety. Th…

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408. NERIS - Tom Jenkins 1:07:05

20h ago1:07:05

1:07:05

In this conversation, Tom Jenkins discusses the evolution of data collection in the fire service, emphasizing the importance of the National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) system. He highlights the challenges of standardizing data across various departments and the need for a cultural shift within the fire service to embrace data-dri…

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FDNY's Lithium-Ion Task Force 40:58

2d ago40:58

40:58

Since 2022, New York has experienced more than 800 fires sparked by lithium-ion batteries, leading to 30 deaths and more than 400 injuries. The sudden explosion of battery incidents led FDNY in 2023 to form the Lithium-Ion Task Force, a specialized unit dedicated to addressing the growing threat of fires caused by batteries, particularly those used…

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The Larry Conley Show: Healthy Minds 54:09

3d ago54:09

54:09

The Larry Conley Show: Healthy Minds On this episode of The Larry Conley Show, host Larry Conley sits down with Kelsey Perkins, MSW, LCSW. Perkins is a trauma therapist who works with first responders. They discuss PTSD, EMDR therapy, the Healthy Minds Initiative, and why asking for help is a sign of leadership—not weakness. Conley gets real about …

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Chapter 81. REsize Up 7:04

4d ago7:04

7:04

In this chapter, I discuss the new podcast channel and the idea that size-up doesn’t stop after the initial look—it’s continuous. I also discuss the heads-up display (HUD) and how it can serve as a quiet metronome on the fire floor and floors above, helping us track timing, tempo, and the overall rhythm of your operation.…

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Fire Service Data and Tech Talk: Artificial Intelligence 1:00:24

5d ago1:00:24

1:00:24

Fire Service Data and Tech Talk: Artificial Intelligence In this episode of Fire Service Data and Tech Talk, Eddie Buchanan sits down with Holly Buchenroth and Jeff Butcher to explore the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on fire service training and operations. Drawing from their extensive experience in emergency medical education a…

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407. National Fallen Firefighters Foundation Education and Outreach - John Kane 40:04

7d ago40:04

40:04

In this episode, Jeremy Donch speaks with John Kane, the coordinator of education and outreach for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF). They discuss the mission of the NFFF, which is to honor fallen firefighters, assist their families, and prevent future tragedies in the fire service. John shares insights into the various educational…

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Frontline Mindset Episode 43. Threats to Violent Attacks 31:45

8d ago31:45

31:45

In this episode of Frontline Mindset, Rob breaks down the growing spectrum of violence first responders face—from assaults and stabbings to vehicle rammings and ambush-style shootings. Drawing on real incidents and his class Active Shooter: Fire Department Personnel in the Line of Fire, Rob highlights how these threats are evolving—and what we must…

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Top Floor Tactics Episode 29. Ret. Navy Seal Lieutenant Jason Redman 55:32

11d ago55:32

55:32

Join Mickey in a conversation with Lieutenant Jason Redman, retired U.S. Navy SEAL and best-selling author, on my latest episode.Jason's journey is one of resilience, triumph, and unwavering commitment to excellence. In this episode, we delve into the crucial topic of maintaining high standards in the fire service.…

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406. “If Not You, Then Who?” Shannon Stone 1:19:34

14d ago1:19:34

1:19:34

If Not You, Then Who? – A Conversation with Chief Shannon StoneDescription / Narrative:In this episode of the National Fire Radio Podcast, I sit down with Chief Shannon Stone—a 35-year veteran of the fire service and a true example of what leadership looks like in today’s American firehouse. From firefighter to fire chief, Shannon has served in mul…

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BuildingsonFire: Row House Challenges, Construction, and Operations Part 3 1:34:34

14d ago1:34:34

1:34:34

BuildingsonFire: Row House Challenges, Construction, and Operations Part 3 In this episode of the BuildingsonFire podcast, host Christopher Naum dives into the complexities of rowhouse construction and its direct impact on firefighter safety and fireground operations. Drawing from recent line-of-duty death investigations in Baltimore and Philadelph…

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Frontline Mindset Episode 42 – FF Megan Funk - Giving Grace on Mental Health 59:43

15d ago59:43

59:43

In this powerful conversation, Rob sits down with firefighter/paramedic Megan Funk to tackle one of the fastest-growing challenges in emergency services—mental health calls. Megan shares her path into the fire service, the increasing frequency of psychiatric emergencies, and how her department is adapting through hands-on EMS training and a renewed…

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403. "It's Always the Cheap Seats" - Scott Thompson 1:28:01

16d ago1:28:01

1:28:01

Scott Thompson, Fire Chief of The Colony, TX Fire Department and author of The Functional Fire Company discusses the importance of strong leadership in the fire service, emphasizing the blue collar nature of firefighting and the need for a culture that prioritizes mentorship and training. He highlights the disconnect between administration and oper…

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Women in Fire: Peer Support, Therapy, and Mental Health Awareness in the Fire Service 1:02:56

16d ago1:02:56

1:02:56

Women in Fire: Peer Support, Therapy, and Mental Health Awareness in the Fire Service In this episode of the Women in Fire podcast, host Lisa Baker explores mental health challenges faced by firefighters and first responders. Baker welcomes guest Taylor Montey, a lieutenant with Poudre Fire Authority, in Fort Collins, Colorado, and Julie Nelson, a …

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Safety Goes on Offense 33:04

16d ago33:04

33:04

As we’ve noted on the podcast a few times recently, standard development organizations and safety professionals are facing several significant challenges right now. In statehouses, lawmakers are increasingly passing bills that alter, delay, or even erase safety codes; fire marshals and other safety professionals say their voices are being increasin…

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Talkin' Tactics: Mentorship, Mindset, and Stigma in the Fire Service 1:00:07

17d ago1:00:07

1:00:07

Talkin' Tactics: Mentorship, Mindset, and Stigma in the Fire Service In this episode of Talking Tactics, hosts David Polikoff and Sam Villani and welcome guest Bryan Riley to explore the realities of stepping into leadership roles in high-pressure, busy fire companies. Riley shares his journey from volunteer to seasoned company officer and battalio…

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Re Run: Chapter 50. Tim Klett 1:00:29

18d ago1:00:29

1:00:29

In this episode, Tim and Mickey dive deep into the heart of what keeps the fire service strong: standards, tradition, and legacy. They explore how the old-school values of the job shape today’s firehouse culture and the delicate balance between honoring the past while adapting to modern challenges.The highlight of the episode is Tim’s detailed step…

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Hooks and Hoses: The Nontraditional Truck Company 1:08:30

18d ago1:08:30

1:08:30

Hooks and Hoses: The Nontraditional Truck Company In this episode of Hooks & Hoses, host Eric Dreiman talks with guests Jim Silvernail and Arthur Ashley about their new release from Fire Engineering Books, The Nontraditional Truck Company. Challenging conventional engine-based firefighting, the authors explore how truck company operations—search, v…

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Generation Engine: Lessons from Conferences and Instructor Insights 1:07:45

19d ago1:07:45

1:07:45

Generation Engine: Lessons from Conferences and Instructor Insights In this episode of Generation Engine, hosts Anthony Rowett and Todd Edwards talk with guest Sean Duffy about the rapidly growing world of firefighter training conferences. They cover their grassroots efforts to bring impactful, hands-on education to local and national fire communit…

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Tailboard Talk: Confronting MMIR and Human Trafficking in the Fire Service 1:00:37

20d ago1:00:37

1:00:37

Tailboard Talk: Confronting MMIR and Human Trafficking in the Fire Service In this episode of Tailboard Talk, fire service leaders tackle the urgent crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives (MMIR) alongside the complex realities of human trafficking. Monte Frank, a firefighter and emergency manager, shares the deeply personal story of hi…

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The Command Post: Tools, Tradition, and the Firefighter's Mindset 57:29

21d ago57:29

57:29

The Command Post: Tools, Tradition, and the Firefighter's Mindset In this episode of The Command Post, Hosts Rick Lasky and John Salka take a meaningful look at the essential tools of firefighting, their care, and the knowledge behind them. From the iconic halligan’s origins in the FDNY to evolving equipment like hydraulic “rabbit” tools, they disc…

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Frontline Mindset Episode 41. Grenfell, Grit, and Giving Back – A Conversation with Steve Aslin 1:03:11

22d ago1:03:11

1:03:11

In this episode of Frontline Mindset, Rob speaks with retired London Fire Brigade firefighter Steve Aslin, who shares his powerful journey through the fire service and his firsthand experience during the tragic Grenfell Tower fire. Steve offers a candid look into the emotional toll of that day, the lessons learned, and the ongoing pursuit of justic…

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402. Ben's Blue Bags - Matt Kodicek 39:22

23d ago39:22

39:22

In this episode of the National Fire Radio Podcast, host Jeremy Donch speaks with Matt Kodicek about Ben's Blue Bags, a sensory bag initiative designed for children with autism. Matt shares his journey in the fire service and how his experiences as a father to a child on the spectrum inspired him to create these bags. The conversation emphasizes th…

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The Professional Volunteer Fire Department: Turning a Volunteer Fire Department Around 1:11:56

23d ago1:11:56

1:11:56

The Professional Volunteer Fire Department: Turning a Volunteer Fire Department Around In this episode of the Professional Volunteer Fire Department, host Tom Merrill welcomes Chief John Buchan of the Florissant (CO) Fire Protection District. Buchan shares how he turned a struggling volunteer fire department around in just one year—doubling members…

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The Backstop Boys: The Lifesaving Power of Fire Codes 1:16:44

24d ago1:16:44

1:16:44

In this episode of The Backstep Boys, Ron Kanterman, Tom Aurnhammer, and fire protection expert Jack Murphy explore the critical role fire codes and standards play in firefighter safety and building resilience. From the origins of the International Fire Code to the political challenges of code updates, they unpack why these regulations matter beyon…

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Chapter 80. Two Hands Two Tools 10:48

25d ago10:48

10:48

Two Hands Two Tools — it’s more than a slogan. A phrase we’ve all lived at least once in our career. And while it’s burned into the culture, believe it or not, there’s an art and a discipline to putting one down. That’s what we get into on this podcast — the moments, the mindset, and the humility behind knowing when to adjust, adapt, and get the jo…

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Fireground Strategies: Insights on Division Supervision, Training, and Fire Dynamics 1:04:47

26d ago1:04:47

1:04:47

Fireground Strategies: Insights on Division Supervision, Training, and Fire Dynamics In this episode of Fireground Strategies episode, Battalion Chief Patrick Wirkus, of the Elizabeth (NJ) Fire Department, shares practical strategies for improving fireground command through effective division supervision. Drawing on 13 years of frontline experience…

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Perspectives on Leadership: Leadership, Trust, and the Power of “Why” 1:13:47

27d ago1:13:47

1:13:47

Perspectives on Leadership: Leadership, Trust, and the Power of “Why” In this episode of Perspectives on Leadership, host Stephen Shaw sits down with leadership expert Frank Viscuso to explore the foundations of teamwork within the fire service. Drawing on decades of experience, they discuss how a shared sense of purpose, clear standards, and authe…

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401. “ Bicycle Repair “ - The Shimek 1:16:46

28d ago1:16:46

1:16:46

In this engaging conversation, the hosts explore various themes including the nature of itching, personal journeys through education, the nostalgia associated with bicycles and childhood memories, and the joy found in sports like snowboarding and skiing. They delve into the experiences of firefighters, emphasizing the importance of camaraderie and …

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Fire Service Court: Religious Rights, OSHA Rules, and Operational Realities 40:18

28d ago40:18

40:18

Fire Service Court: Religious Rights, OSHA Rules, and Operational Realities This episode of Fire Service Court covers several topics that may have your department talking. The conversation addresses the complex and often contentious issue of facial hair policies in fire departments. The discussion centers around a recent case involving a veteran fi…

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Frontline Mindset Episode 40. Leadership, Loss, and Legacy – A Conversation with Lt. Mark Bender 35:33

29d ago35:33

35:33

In this powerful episode of Frontline Mindset, Rob sits down with Lieutenant Mark Bendel, recently retired from the Greenville Fire District, to reflect on a career of service, sacrifice, and resilience. Mark opens up about the tragic loss of his friend and fellow firefighter, Vito Sciavillo, and how that grief led to the creation of his children's…

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Heat, the Silent Killer 53:15

29d ago53:15

53:15

As summer weather begins in the Northern Hemisphere, we revisit this very relevant episode from 2023. Heatwaves aren't just uncomfortable, they are deadly for millions of people around the globe each year. Recognizing this growing threat, governments and safety departments are starting to reconsider their vulnerabilities to heat and are taking acti…

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400. "Legacy" - Tom Donch 1:25:02

30d ago1:25:02

1:25:02

In this heartfelt conversation, Jeremy Donch interviews his father, Tom Donch, reflecting on their family legacy in the fire service. They discuss the importance of camaraderie, generational values, and the work ethic instilled through family and community involvement. Tom shares stories from his early days in firefighting, the evolution of the ser…

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The Size Up Episode 116 - All About The Hose - Janelle 1:05:22

1M ago1:05:22

1:05:22

In this episode, Pip and Janelle reflect on personal experiences and emotional connections within the firefighting community, discussing the importance of family, the joy of cruising, and the unique role of medical staff at events. Janelle shares her journey from volunteer firefighter to entrepreneur with Burn Bags USA, emphasizing the significance…

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Mayday Monday: Rescuing a Heavily Entrapped Firefighter 2:07:42

1M ago2:07:42

2:07:42

Welcome to the June 2025 edition of Mayday Monday. This month we review a fire from St. Mary’s County, Maryland. On June 27, 2023, several departments were dispatched for a fire in a two-story, single-family dwelling. The chief of the first-due fire company was first to arrive on scene and found heavy fire conditions on the first and second floors …

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Ch. 79 “The Rut” 2:44

1M ago2:44

2:44

In this episode, Mickey talks about hitting a rut in your career. This job’s like the ocean—the tide comes in, the tide goes out. Some days you’re riding high, other days you’re getting pulled under. The key is knowing it’s part of the cycle—and learning how to keep your feet under you when the water shifts.…

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Fire Service Data and Tech Talk: The Path Forward with Tom Jenkins 53:49

1M ago53:49

53:49

The Path Forward with Tom Jenkins In this episode of Fire Service Data and Tech Talk, host Eddie Buchanan welcomes Tom Jenkins, senior advisor/research manager for UL Fire Safety Research Institute on the NERIS project. They discuss the transformation of fire service data collection and technology through the National Emergency Response Information…

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399. "Common Sense" - Brian Nardelli 1:25:02

1M ago1:25:02

1:25:02

Jeremy and Chief of Department Brian Nardelli, Brockton, MA Fire Department discuss the importance of pride, leadership, and high standards in the fire service. They emphasize the need for accountability, the value of learning from mistakes through hot washes, and the significance of mentorship. The dialogue highlights the noble calling of firefigh…

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Main Street Firefighting: Lessons from a Complex Main Street Fire 58:12

1M ago58:12

58:12

Main Street Firefighting: Lessons from a Complex Main Street Fire In this episode of Main Street Firefighting, get an inside look at a challenging downtown fire involving legacy brick buildings with cockloft involvement—fueled by heavy winds and complicated by unique building features like spiral staircases and metal roofing. The department’s rapid…

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Frontline Mindset Episode 39 – Part 2: Situational Awareness and Conflict Avoidance 19:55

1M ago19:55

19:55

In this solo episode, Rob dives deeper into the mindset and practical tools first responders need to stay safe in an increasingly volatile world. Building on the foundation laid in Part 1, he breaks down situational awareness using the color code system and explores real-world strategies for conflict avoidance. Whether you’re on the fireground, in …

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Fire and Training: Building High-Performance Teams 19:05

1M ago19:05

19:05

In this episode of Fire and Training, host Doug Cline breaks down the core elements needed to build and sustain high-performance teams. Leadership here isn’t about titles or rank—it’s about clear purpose, strong communication, and unwavering accountability. Cline highlights seven key characteristics, from fostering open dialogue to cultivating trus…

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The Larry Conley Show: Leadership, Legacy, and Lifelong Service in the Fire Service 1:25:51

1M ago1:25:51

1:25:51

Leadership, Legacy, and Lifelong Service in the Fire Service In this episode of the Larry Conley Show, host Larry Conley welcomes recently retired Arlington County (VA) Deputy Chief Tiffanye Wesley. They discuss the challenges and triumphs of a firefighting career and life beyond the fireground. Reflecting on decades of breaking barriers, mentorshi…

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Ch 78 Forcible Entry: Floor Above 7:04

1M ago7:04

7:04

This episode dives into the realities of forcing entry when you’re operating on the floor above the fire. We’re talking zero visibility, high heat, and high risk. From hallway conditions to door control and tool selection. We break down the tactics, the mindset, and the urgency required when the floor above isn’t just your assignment, it’s your res…

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The Mikey G and Mikey D Show: Firefighter Operations in High-Rise and Big-Box Structures 1:22:39

1M ago1:22:39

1:22:39

The Mikey G and Mikey D Show: Firefighter Operations in High-Rise and Big-Box Structures Hosts Mike Dugan and Mike Gagliano talk with a panel of fire service experts about the Firefighter Air Coalition supplement in Fire Engineering, and their respective articles that cover the complexities of firefighting operations concerning high-rise buildings …

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First Due Battalion Chief: Building Hazards and Response Strategies 1:01:25

1M ago1:01:25

1:01:25

First Due Battalion Chief: Building Hazards and Response Strategies Seasoned firefighters Danny Sheridan and Erik Pettaway discuss the challenges presented by void spaces in residential and commercial buildings. Drawing insights from Frank Brannigan's seminal work, Brannigan’s Building Construction for the Fire Service, the hosts highlight critical…

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Frontline Mindset Episode 38: Understanding Violence Against First Responders 11:19

1M ago11:19

11:19

In this episode, Rob discusses the recent sentencing of the murderer of Captain Allison Russo, a tragic event that highlights the increasing violence against first responders. He delves into the different types of violence that first responders may encounter, including unintentional, intentional, social, and asocial violence. Rob emphasizes the imp…

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Women in Fire: Mental Health in the Fire Service 1:00:40

1M ago1:00:40

1:00:40

Women in Fire: Mental Health in the Fire Service In this episode of the Women in Fire radio show, hosted by Lisa Baker, leading voices from the fire service engage in a critical discussion on mental health, coinciding with National Mental Health Awareness Month (May). The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing mental health challenge…

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The Size Up Episode 115 - Be The Different - Allison Brager 1:11:04

1M ago1:11:04

1:11:04

In this engaging conversation, Allison shares her unique journey balancing fitness, military service, and elegance. She discusses the importance of individuality in leadership, the impact of 9/11 on her decision to serve, and the significance of adaptability in various environments. The discussion also delves into the science of sleep, its critical…

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Ch 77. “The Sauce” 31:02

1M ago31:02

31:02

In this episode, Jermey joins Mickey and cuts through the noise and get real about the fire service and its growing obsession with social media. From fire fame to curated culture, we talk about what’s getting lost—authenticity and humility. This isn’t a rant—it’s a reminder to bring the focus of what we do back to reality.…

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Risk Reduction on Tribal Lands 57:54

1M ago57:54

57:54

Tribal nations and native communities across North America are consistently one of the highest-risk population groups for a range of health and safety issues, including fire incidents and casualties. And yet, developing and implementing community risk reduction programs in native communities can be daunting, especially for non-native fire departmen…