Episodes

  • Episode #58 "Four things that every good Firefighter has" with Tyler Whittredge
    26 Oct 2026

    The conversation centers around Tyler Whitridge's insights on fire department culture and leadership, emphasizing the importance of mindset and presence over mere skills. Whitridge discusses his upcoming book, which aims to guide new firefighters in understanding the culture and expectations of the profession. The conversation delves into the importance of presence, accountability, and maintaining standards within the fire service. Steve-O and T. Whittredge discuss how these elements contribute to effective leadership and the overall culture of firefighting. The conversation explores the journey of Tyler Whittredge in the firefighting profession, emphasizing the importance of tradition, culture, and the generational aspect of firefighting. It highlights the significance of honoring past firefighters and fostering a culture of care and commitment within the fire service.

    Takeaways

    • Culture over skills
    • Importance of presence Presence is crucial in emergencies
    • Accountability fosters growth and standards Importance of honoring tradition
    • Fostering a culture of care

    Chapters

    • 00:00 The Importance of Fire Department Culture
    • 06:06 Setting Expectations for New Firefighters
    • 09:09 Understanding the Role of a Firefighter
    • 11:47 Defining a Good Firefighter
    • 14:55 The Role of Attitude, Effort, and Presence
    • 29:26 Setting Expectations and Accountability
    • 30:23 The Importance of Professional Presence
    • 34:04 Faking It vs. Owning Your Presence
    • 37:14 Earning Your Place Every Day
    • 43:03 Understanding the Senior Man Concept
    • 51:22 Protecting Culture and Standards
    • 56:43 From Probation to Professional
    • 58:08 Generational Firefighting Stories
    • 01:02:06 The Meaning Behind the Job
    • 01:05:22 Honoring Fire Service Traditions
    • 01:12:51 A Vision for the Future
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    1 hr and 9 min
  • Episode #57 Lee Humphrys
    12 Oct 2026

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    The conversation features Lee Humphrey, a seasoned fireman, discussing his journey in the fire service, particularly his passion for ground ladders and the challenges he faced in his career. Lee shares insights on training, the importance of adaptability in firefighting, and his experiences transitioning between departments. The conversation focuses on the importance of ground ladder training in the fire service, emphasizing the need for effective techniques and building confidence among firefighters. Lee shares his experiences in teaching ladder techniques and the significance of practical training, while also discussing the challenges and changes in the fire service over the years.


    Takeaways

    • Passion for ground ladders
    • Overcoming career challenges Ground ladder training is essential
    • Confidence is key in firefighting


    Chapters

    • 00:00 Introduction to Lee Humphrey
    • 01:30 The Journey into Ground Ladders
    • 05:12 The Importance of Training and Adaptability
    • 10:35 Operational Dynamics of Firefighting
    • 18:00 Career Transitions and Challenges
    • 37:30 Passion for Teaching and Ground Ladders
    • 39:59 Building Confidence with Ladders
    • 44:58 Effective Ladder Techniques
    • 51:40 Training Scars and Real-World Application
    • 58:11 The Journey to Becoming a Firefighter
    • 01:01:01 The Importance of Kitchen Table Traditions
    • 01:05:11 A Vision for the Future of Fire Service
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    1 hr and 4 min
  • Episode #56 Chris Hertzog "We need to talk!"
    28 Sep 2026

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    Chris Herzog, a 19-year veteran of the American fire service, shares his journey of mental health struggles, trauma, and recovery. His experience at the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Center of Excellence for treatment and the challenges of transitioning back to work are highlighted. The conversation covers a range of topics including personal struggles, mental health, the experience of a recovery program, and the culture of the fire service. It also delves into the camaraderie and traditions within the fire service, as well as the impact of territorial differences in fire departments. The guest shares his personal journey, offers support to those in need, and emphasizes the importance of reaching out for help.


    Takeaways

    • Mental Health Struggles
    • Support System Mental Health Struggles
    • Camaraderie in the Fire Service


    Chapters

    • 00:00 Introduction to Chris Herzog
    • 02:19 The Journey of Mental Health Struggles
    • 08:03 Treatment at the IAFF Center of Excellence
    • 13:37 Transitioning Back to Work
    • 37:51 Supporting Others Through Struggles
    • 38:33 Access to Phones in the Recovery Program
    • 39:18 Therapeutic Support and Diagnosis
    • 42:00 Reflections on Personal Struggles and Recovery
    • 42:29 Daily Routine in the Recovery Program
    • 43:29 Advice for Those Struggling
    • 44:05 Personal Experience with Divorce and Recovery
    • 45:16 Radical Acceptance and Decision Making
    • 46:00 Accomplishments and Progress in Recovery
    • 47:10 The Importance of Sharing Personal Struggles
    • 48:47 Transition to a New Role in the Fire Service
    • 53:47 Early Exposure to the Fire Service
    • 55:49 Favorite Fire Service Tradition
    • 58:58 Desire for Uniformity in Fire Service Operations
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    59 min
  • Episode #55 "The Energy Drink" Ian Horowitz Baltimore City Fire
    14 Sep 2026

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    The conversation covers the journey of Ian Horowitz from his early days in the fire service to his transition into real estate. It delves into the creation and impact of the Go Get Brothers, the challenges and experiences of working in Baltimore City, and the decision to leave the fire service. It also explores the identity crisis associated with leaving the fire service and the need for better exit strategies for firefighters. Additionally, it touches on the impact of the Baltimore riots and the response of city officials. The conversation covers the Baltimore riots, the impact on Baltimore City and firefighting, and the transition to business and energy drink creation. It delves into the challenges faced by firefighters and the creation of a unique energy drink for first responders. The conversation covers topics related to supporting first responders, building a nationwide presence, the importance of tradition, and challenges in the fire service. Ian Horowitz discusses his efforts to support military vets and first responders, the expansion of their business nationwide, the significance of fire service traditions, and the need for an improved exit strategy for firefighters.

    Takeaways

    • The importance of recognizing when it's time to leave the fire service and the need for better exit strategies for firefighters.
    • The impact of the Baltimore riots on the fire service and the challenges faced by firefighters during that time. Baltimore riots and their impact on the city and firefighting
    • Creation of a unique energy drink for first responders Supporting military vets and first responders
    • Expansion of business nationwide
    • Significance of fire service traditions
    • Need for an improved exit strategy for firefighters

    Chapters

    • 00:00 The Birth of Go Get Brothers
    • 03:00 The Go Get Brothers Take Off
    • 05:01 Choosing Baltimore City
    • 09:51 The Aggressive Fireman's World
    • 18:48 Transitioning from Fire Service to Real Estate
    • 21:57 The Identity Crisis of Leaving the Fire Service
    • 25:45 Exit Strategies for Firefighters
    • 27:56 The Impact of the Baltimore Riots
    • 28:48 The Baltimore Riots
    • 31:08 Baltimore City and Firefighting
    • 45:44 Transition to Business and Energy Drink Creation
    • 58:50 Supporting First Responders
    • 01:00:45 Building a Nationwide Presence
    • 01:03:06 The Importance of Tradition
    • 01:15:19 Challenges in the Fire Service
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    1 hr and 24 min
  • Episode #54 Heath Meredith
    31 Aug 2026

    The conversation covers topics related to fire service culture, mindset, and operational tactics. It delves into the importance of addressing conflict at the station level, the significance of the first five minutes of the fire ground, and the need for adaptability in training and leadership styles. The conversation also highlights the challenges and opportunities in shaping the next generation of firefighters. The conversation covers a range of topics related to the fire service, including training, certification, and the changing landscape of fire academies. It also delves into the importance of realistic training and the impact of generational differences in the fire service. The conversation highlights the significance of tradition and camaraderie in the fire service, as well as the evolving role of firefighters in modern times. The conversation delves into the tradition of smoking cigars at the firehouse, the importance of camaraderie, and the need for credible instructors in the fire service. It also explores the impact of technology on fire incidents and the significance of problem-solving and critical thinking in the industry.

    Takeaways

    • Fire service culture and mindset are essential for effective operations.
    • Addressing conflict at the station level is crucial for a cohesive and efficient fire service.
    • The first five minutes of the fire ground are critical for mindset and tactical readiness.
    • Adaptability in training and leadership styles is necessary to cater to the diverse needs of the new generation of firefighters. Realistic training is essential for bridging the gap between certifications and real-life application.
    • The next generation of firefighters is characterized by a strong desire to learn and improve, leading to a positive shift in the fire service culture. Camaraderie and tradition are essential in the fire service
    • The need for credible and experienced instructors in the fire service
    • The impact of technology on fire incidents and the importance of problem-solving

    Chapters

    • 00:00 Fire Service Culture and Mindset
    • 02:46 The First Five Minutes of the Fire Ground
    • 21:10 Adaptability in Training and Leadership
    • 32:19 The Changing Landscape of Fire Academies
    • 33:03 The Impact of Generational Differences
    • 35:17 The Importance of Realistic Training
    • 01:12:16 Camaraderie and Tradition in the Fire Service
    • 01:14:06 Firehouse Traditions and Camaraderie
    • 01:17:47 The Role of Credible Instructors in the Fire Service
    • 01:23:10 Technology's Impact on Fire Incidents
    • 01:39:48 Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking in the Fire Service
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    1 hr and 36 min
  • EPISODE #52 YOUR LOCKS DON'T WORK W/ STEVE CATHEY
    3 Aug 2026

    The conversation delves into the world of forcible entry, exploring the challenges and successes of implementing training, gaining recognition, and transitioning to social media. It also discusses the use of real doors for training and the practicality of carrying forcible entry tools. The conversation covers topics related to forcible entry tactics and tools, hurricane bracing and inclement weather, building construction and fire conditions, masking up and size-up, and adapting to new building construction. The discussion provides insights into the challenges and strategies for dealing with various building types and fire conditions, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and multiple options in forcible entry situations. The conversation covers a range of topics including the importance of through-the-lock entry, community support and professionalism, the impact of property taxes on public safety funding, the transition from barber to firefighter, the significance of family time and mealtime, and the need for mandatory physical fitness standards in the fire service.

    Takeaways

    • Importance of real doors for training
    • Challenges of implementing forcible entry training
    • Carrying forcible entry tools Adaptability and multiple options are crucial in forcible entry situations.
    • Understanding building construction and fire conditions is essential for effective firefighting. Importance of through-the-lock entry for professional firefighters
    • The need for mandatory physical fitness standards in the fire service

    Chapters

    • 00:00 Introduction to Forcible Entry
    • 02:06 Discovering the Need for Forcible Entry
    • 04:20 Challenges of Implementing Forcible Entry Training
    • 06:08 Gaining Support and Recognition
    • 09:43 Transition to Social Media and Training Videos
    • 22:25 Real Doors and Training Opportunities
    • 27:42 Carrying Forcible Entry Tools
    • 28:59 Forcible Entry Tactics and Tools
    • 31:16 Hurricane Bracing and Inclement Weather
    • 32:38 Building Construction and Fire Conditions
    • 41:46 Masking Up and Size-Up
    • 50:31 Adapting to New Building Construction
    • 52:22 Importance of Through-the-Lock Entry
    • 54:18 Community Support and Professionalism
    • 55:18 Impact of Property Taxes on Public Safety Funding
    • 57:27 Transition from Barber to Firefighter
    • 01:04:12 The Significance of Family Time and Mealtime
    • 01:09:08 Mandatory Physical Fitness Standards
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    1 hr and 14 min
  • Episode #53 100% Volly with Mr. Joe Weis and his Son Kevin Weis
    17 Aug 2026

    The conversation with Mr. Joe Weiss and Kevin Weiss covers Joe's extensive experience in the volunteer fire service, including his roles, the Junior Firefighter Program, and the challenges of rural firefighting. The discussion also delves into the unique aspects of firefighting in a farming community and the importance of mutual aid. The conversation covers a wide range of topics related to firefighting, including the challenges of drafting or zero to little water supply issues, the use of fill sites, and the importance of community support for volunteer firefighters. The discussion also delves into the political aspects of the fire service and the significance of the brotherhood and family atmosphere within the fire service. The conversation concludes with a message of gratitude for volunteer firefighters and a commitment to continue supporting and appreciating their service.

    Takeaways

    • Volunteer firefighting in a rural farming community presents unique challenges and requires specialized equipment and tactics.
    • The Junior Firefighter Program is an effective way to engage and mentor young individuals in the fire service, fostering a sense of community and responsibility.
    • Mutual aid plays a crucial role in rural firefighting, especially in areas without hydrants, relying on ponds and fill sites for water supply. Challenges of drafting and water supply issues
    • Importance of community support for volunteer firefighters
    • Significance of the brotherhood and family atmosphere within the fire service
    • Gratitude for volunteer firefighters and commitment to continue supporting and appreciating their service

    Chapters

    • 00:00 Introduction to Mr. Joe Weiss
    • 03:02 Early Years and Entry into the Fire Service
    • 04:14 The Junior Firefighter Program
    • 06:16 Volunteer Firefighting in a Farming Community
    • 11:06 Challenges and Equipment in Rural Firefighting
    • 13:45 The Role of Mutual Aid
    • 25:04 The Experience of a Volunteer Firefighter
    • 32:38 Equipment and Tactics in Rural Firefighting
    • 34:39 Challenges of Drafting and Water Supply Issues
    • 35:12 Community Support for Volunteer Firefighters
    • 43:47 The Political Aspects of the Fire Service
    • 53:18 The Significance of the Brotherhood and Family Atmosphere
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    1 hr and 7 min
  • Episode #51 FDNY Michael Penchina.
    20 Jul 2026

    The conversation with Mike Penchina, a retired FDNY firefighter, covers his career from 1963 to 1991, including the war years, Proby School, and his experiences with ladder and engine companies. The conversation also delves into the relationship between ladder companies and rescues, as well as the transition between ladder and engine companies. Mike Penchina shares his experiences as a firefighter, including his return to 26 truck, his favorite positions on the ladder, and a dramatic rescue. He also discusses his retirement and the implementation of masks in the fire service. The conversation delves into the culture and experiences of the F D NY, highlighting the mentorship, camaraderie, and challenges faced by firefighters. It also explores the evolution of the fire service and the impact of societal changes on firefighting practices.

    Takeaways

    • War Years
    • Proby School
    • Ladder vs. Rescue
    • Transition Between Companies Dedication to a Specific Fire Company
    • Favorite Positions on the Ladder
    • Dramatic Rescue Experience
    • Retirement and Disability
    • Implementation of Masks in the Fire Service Mentorship and Camaraderie
    • Challenges and Evolution of the Fire Service

    Chapters

    • 00:00 The War Years and Proby School
    • 03:37 Ladder vs. Rescue
    • 26:28 Transition Between Companies
    • 33:17 Return to 26 Truck
    • 35:10 Favorite Positions on the Ladder
    • 40:41 Dramatic Rescue Experience
    • 55:24 Retirement and Disability
    • 59:36 Implementation of Masks in the Fire Service
    • 01:01:32 The Culture of F D NY
    • 01:02:08 Mentorship and Learning from Experience
    • 01:05:43 The Impact of Societal Changes
    • 01:06:48 Challenges Faced by Firefighters
    • 01:08:20 The Future of the Fire Service
    • 01:11:32 Maintaining Tradition and Brotherhood
    • 01:15:40 The Need for Experience and Training
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    1 hr and 17 min