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.