In this conversation, Pip and Marlon discuss their experiences as firefighters and law enforcement officers, highlighting the challenges and rewards of their respective careers. They touch on topics such as the fear and mental wellness in emergency services, the impact of overtime on work-life balance, and the public perception of firefighters and …

Top Floor Tactics Ep. 40 Li-ion Battery Fire Tactical Breakdown by Jeremy DonchBy Jeremy Donch

Since 2016, Tyler Prater has found his home in the St. Louis, MO Fire Department. Working with a few busy engine companies, his road always lead back to the Rescue Company on the northside. Early on, his exposure to the tech rescue skills came from his days with the volunteer fire department. The opportunities were endless and he was hungry to lear…

This episode of the podcast features John and Noah, discussing the World's Strongest Firefighter competition at the Arnold Sports Festival. The competition raises money for firefighter charities and brings together firefighters from around the world. The hosts talk about their personal connections to firefighting and the impact of the event. They e…

Mickey and Jeremy express confusion about why there is a need to coin the phrase 'for them' when it has always been understood that the purpose of the fire service is to serve the civilians. The discussion touches on the importance of safety culture, the prioritization of saving civilians over firefighter safety, and the need for clear communicatio…

In this conversation, Pip and Jon discuss various topics including their experiences in the fire service, the challenges of working in administration, and the benefits of routine and sleep. They also touch on the importance of effective leadership and problem-solving in the fire service. Jon shares his background as a bagpiper and the founder of Re…

Top Floor Tactics Episode 38. by Jeremy DonchBy Jeremy Donch

Jeremy sits down with Lieutenant Mark Zidiak of Ladder Co. 2, Clifton, NJ Fire Department for the August 2024 @FireandSafetyNJ featured segment, Behind the Department. This series focuses on the department that built their 2022 Pierce Arrow XT 100' Heavy Duty Steel Aerial. A big part of understanding the apparatus builds is understanding the depart…

From the private sector to the public sector, Ryan McCormick knew that he wanted to serve. Growing up in a Pastor’s home, service was at the forefront of his upbringing. From early on, Ryan wandered over to the local firehouse to help with Christmas tree sales or wash the trucks. This introduction to the fire service led him down a path of wanting …

In this episode, Pip interviews Jennifer from FD Beyond Explorers about her experience in the fire service and the importance of diversity in recruitment. They discuss the challenges of social media usernames, the differences between explorer programs on the East and West Coasts, and the role of the Boy Scouts in supporting explorer programs. Jenni…

The conversation revolves around the question of which position on the fire ground is the most stressful and difficult to be good at. Mickey discusses various positions, including the first due engine chauffeur, the first due battalion chief, and the nozzle position. They explore the challenges and responsibilities of each position and the importan…

10 years in the career fire service is just the beginning for Preston Lyons. His "reborn" attitude about the job comes from many years of doing for the sake of doing. Admittedly he is better today than he was when he first came into the fire service. Finding more allowed him to take the leap in holding himself accountable for the type of firefighte…

Growing up with the highest respect for Fire Engineering magazine, hosting David Rhodes on the podcast was powerful. Settled in as the Editor in Chief, Chief Rhodes brings a fresh face and more importantly, perspective as the magazine takes a turn into todays' fast paced fire service. The episode goes in depth on the "safety culture" concerns of to…

Jeremy sits down with Assistant Chief Chris Grande and Captain Tommy Grande of the East Brunswick, NJ Fire Department for the July 2024 @FireandSafetyNJ featured segment, Behind the Department. This series focuses on the department that built their 2023 Pierce Enforcer pumper, Engine 805. A big part of understanding the apparatus builds is understa…

In this episode, Pip interviews Jordan from Flip Flop Firefighter, a firefighter-owned apparel business. They discuss Jordan's journey as a firefighter and how he started his own business. They also talk about the importance of off-duty bonding and mental health in the fire service. The conversation touches on topics such as the different phases of…

Top Floor Tactics Episode 36. Street Talk by Jeremy DonchBy Jeremy Donch

Born in England, moved to Los Angeles, jumps across the country to New Hampshire, Adam Mills has quite the story to tell. Arriving in the US at the age of 7, he found the fire service early on with an explorer post in Los Angeles. This fueled his passion for the emergency services which soon lead him to the California Department of Forestry and the…

Sean Eagen is a Captain with the Buffalo, NY Fire Department. He has been on the podcast multiple times with Jeremy and always has insights and knowledge to share. This catch up session between the two talks alot about the mentoring process. A firm believer that each position takes a minimum of three years to get proficient at it, Sean appreciates …

In this conversation, Pip interviews Shay Mountford from Blaze of Glory Fitness. They discuss Shay's journey from being a nanny to becoming a firefighter and the challenges they faced along the way. Shay shares their experience of going through the hiring process and the importance of physical fitness and preparation for the fire academy. Shay also…

Top Floor Tactics Ep. 35 Mike Smith Engine Co. 48 FDNY - The Engine Company by Jeremy DonchBy Jeremy Donch

"Bless your heart" is a southern way of saying so many things in one quick phrase. Joey Petruccelli, a transplant from NJ to Richmond,VA, loves being an inner city fireman. His NJ charm sometimes gets in the way of his drive and hustle but he doesnt apologize for who he is. Like the southerns, "bless your heart" is a kinder, gentler way than the ro…

In this episode, Pip interviews Brandon from Fire to Light, discussing various topics related to the fire service, personal experiences, and the challenges faced by firefighters. The conversation covers themes such as personal appearance in the fire service, the psychological side of the job, wildland firefighting, and the importance of life experi…

Top Floor Tactics Episode 34. Street Talk by Jeremy DonchBy Jeremy Donch

Melanie joined Jeremy on the podcast once again to discuss the Virginia Move Over Laws that she has been advocating for for some time. Her tireless efforts protecting first responders is evident by her hard work and tenacity when fighting for our safety. Her latest battle is to repeal legislation that was cut in this years Virginia state budget. Th…

Today on this episode of Frontline Mindset, Rob sits down with Jared Vermeulen, a Captain in Boca Raton, Florida, to discuss his book, The Modern Fire Officer, and the journey that inspired him to write it. This book serves as a blueprint for anyone aspiring to be a fire officer. Jared delves into a variety of topics, and together, he and Rob explo…

As the new Director of Training and Safety for the Norwich, CT Fire Department, Jason Erban has found his spot. This challenging position allows for Jason to craft his narrative for training as an outsider coming into a new organization. Navigating a new position and department has been a welcomed challenge. Jason’s previous careers with two other …

Pip welcomes John Nason, a shipboard firefighter and amateur wrestler for this episode. The conversation covers a range of topics, including the significance of off-duty activities, the impact of podcasting, the role of music in daily routines, the challenges and rewards of firefighting, and the experience of amateur wrestling. The discussion delve…

James McVey, NYPD Aviation police officer, and pilot, joins Mickey over a few pints to discuss James time in law enforcement, specifically in Harlem and Spanish Harlem neighborhoods during the 80s crack epidemic. The conversation then shifts to his time in the NYPD's Emergency Service Unit (ESU), where they discuss the different roles and responsib…

Five years with the Mobile, AL Fire Department, Rique Bush has found his place. Growing up in a tough place, odds stacked against him, Rique found that his purpose ion life was to do good, stay away for the inner city pressures and make his family proud. Baseball became a big part of his identy, a team sport that kept him occupied and taught him ab…

It is fun to watch Dave's career grow and expand into where he is today. Whether on the job in Manchester, NH as a Lieutenant or traveling the country speaking, teaching and learning, Dave has come to understand that we must look at the future and be sure we are doing everything in our power to promote the next people to push the job forward. Belie…

In this episode, Pip is joined by Travis and Cav from Dynamic Human Performance to discuss the importance of self-care and finding balance in the fire service. They talk about the different shift schedules in the fire service and how they affect sleep and overall well-being. They emphasize the need for firefighters to prioritize their health and fi…

In this episode, Mickey discusses various topics related to training and communication and the training regimen. Proper breathing techniques and working on Mayday transmissions while he runs on for his daily exercise.By Jeremy Donch

James Island, SC Professional Firefighters Union President Sean Foulois is advocating for fair and equal compensation for his firefighters. This unique public safety district has fallen behind with their commitment to the firefighters and they are losing members to other departments. Their numbers are low, morale is low and the work schedule is det…

Growing up in his Providence, RI neighborhood, Dan Rinaldi chased the fire trucks through the streets and realized this was the path he was going to go down. Filling in an application at 17 years old, he was soon hired and realized this job was truly for him. Fast forward 36 years later, Dan is now one of the most senior men on the job, assigned to…

" Pride and Ownership" with RIck Laskly. Over 45 years in the fire service, Chief Lasky has certainly left his mark on this great institution.By Jeremy Donch

In this conversation, Pip interviews Trevor Williams, a firefighter and the inventor of the Williams key, a tool used for soft entry and forcible entry. They discuss the use of AI in various industries, the importance of being cautious with AI, and the ever-changing landscape of technology. They also touch on the challenges of marketing and the nee…

In this episode, Mickey sits down with Florida State Representative Adam Anderson at his home. They discuss Adam's journey into politics, the role of faith in life, the bravery of ordinary people, and the importance of teaching about September 11th through the lens of heroes. They explore the unity and patriotism that emerged after the attacks, the…

Quick with a one liner, Dave Russell can back them up with a story from his colorful career in the FDNY. This fourth generation firefighter knew early on that the FDNY was where he wanted to spend his time as a firefighter. Prior to being hired, he entered the Air Force pursuing firefighting. HAZMAT, ARFF and so many other disciplines, it was only …

Getting to know Larry Di Camillo over the years, we often go deep on issues facing the fire service. Most of the time we do it over a beer in person when conferences bring us together or sometimes, a random phone call that lasts for quite a while. So , why not record it and share it with the podcast community. So enjoy this episode where we bounce …

From early on, Jack Ayers was just a "Hang Around". A young kid who took to the firehouse to be apart of something bigger. He would be present, maybe even sometimes a nag, but the company knew he would go on to serve the job well. Fast forward, Jack had a full circle moment with one of his mentors from his "Hang Around" days. Today, Jack is an Acti…

In this episode, Pip and Jack discuss their experiences in the emergency services field, particularly in lifeguarding and firefighting. They touch on the importance of passion and immersion in the field, as well as the unique challenges and responsibilities that come with being a emergency responder. They discuss the generational differences in the…

TFT 30 - The Roof by Jeremy DonchBy Jeremy Donch

8 years in and Donovan Carrasco is hungry. Recently finding his way back to his original department, Donovan feels like it's a full circle moment. Remembering back to when the fire department visited his local high school, he knew that the fire department was for him. His mother knew civic service was for him, he was outgoing, protective and they k…

In this episode, Monica Callahan, a dog trainer and handler, discusses her love for Dalmatians and her journey into the world of therapy dogs and service dogs. She shares her experiences at FDIC and the joy of seeing people's reactions to Orio, her Dalmatian therapy dog. Monica also talks about the different roles of therapy dogs and service dogs, …

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.…

Colin Ward, a 17 year firefighter in Utah will travel to find the training grounds. Racking up miles on his car, he drives across the state and further teaching the craft and sharing his knowledge and experience. Admittedly, he has a northeast bug in him, the old school traditional values and way of the job, he shares this love with students who ar…

In this episode, Pip is joined by his friend Lenwood Brown III, also known as Lenny from Notorious Fire. They discuss their friendship and the impact they have had on each other's lives. They also talk about the importance of the fire service brotherhood and the global problems that firefighters face. Lenwood shares his journey from being a graphic…

Jeremy and Mickey are back on the porch and hitting topics head on.By Jeremy Donch

The June 2024 featured apparatus on the @FireandSafetyNJ Calendar project is Engine 474, Ramtown Fire Company, Howell Township, NJ. This Behind the Build series focuses on the construction and design features of this 2022 International HV507 4x4 4-Door Chassis with a @PierceMfg build. Boasting a Cummins L9 360HP engine, Allison EVS4500 transmission…

24 years on the job, Tim Nagim is one of three most senior men within the Escambia, FL Fire Rescue Department. This is something that Tim takes very seriously and in fact, welcomes the challenge of it each day. His commitment to the job is fiercely guarded by his work ethic and daily demeanor. Tim is a man who knows where to be and where to fit in …