The C.A.N. Report

In this episode, Mike Norris shares his insights on fireground decision making, leadership, and the importance of maintaining professionalism and humility in the fire service. We explore topics like tactical decision making, victim behavior, stress physiology, and the value of conferences and networking. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mike Norris and his background 01:06 Mike Norris's focus on...

In this episode, Brendan McDonough shares his powerful story of survival, grief, and recovery after the Yarnell Hill Fire claimed the lives of 19 of his brothers. He discusses the impact of trauma, the journey to sobriety, and how faith and community played a vital role in healing. Brendan McDonough shares his inspiring journey of overcoming tragedy, addiction, and finding purpose in the fire serv...

In this Episode, I had an opportunity to learn more about Jason Yerkovich, a battalion chief with nearly two decades in the fire service, as he talks through the path that took him from art director to firefighter, and how that journey shaped his view of leadership, family, and service. It centers on the idea that the job only works when you stay human, stay teachable, and bring the best of the fi...

In this episode, Jason Sautel shares his inspiring journey from a troubled childhood to becoming a firefighter and a man of faith. He discusses the impact of trauma, the importance of faith, and how to find hope and healing through faith and community. Jason Sautel shares his inspiring journey from firefighter to evangelist, emphasizing the importance of mental, spiritual, and physical resilience....

What happens when two firefighters from different backgrounds connect over shared experiences? In this episode, Mike Goldstein welcomes Rob Masters to discuss their journeys in the fire service, the challenges they faced, and the importance of speaking up about issues that often go unaddressed. Rob Masters began his firefighting career later in life, starting at 37 after years in the dog training...

This conversation follows Mike Goldstein and guest Carter Shaw as Carter shares his path through fire service, military service, and the devastating loss of his lieutenant and close friend, Kyle Hines, to suicide. The episode turns a personal tragedy into a practical warning about what to look for, how departments miss signs, and why peer support and therapy cannot be an afterthought. Carter Shaw...

In this episode, Mike Goldstein sits down with Dylan Brown, the founder of The Unmasked Fireman, for a straight-up conversation about fire service culture, fitness, humility, and leadership. Dylan shares how his page became a place to talk honestly about the job, the good and the bad, and why he believes accountability starts with the person in the mirror. They also dig into smoke diver training,...

In this episode, I sit down with Chief Clyde Gordon for a wide ranging interview about his time in the fire service, including more than three decades with the Houston Fire Department. The conversation centers on the leadership lessons Chief Gordon learned the hard way, the responsibility officers have for training and accountability, and how modern tactics must adapt to midrise, townhome, and sho...

In this episode I sit down with Jordan LaPoint as we unpack a messy fight over leadership, staffing, and accountability in a Michigan fire department. Jordan explains how a proposed fire district, personnel actions, and a hostile work environment led to multiple resignations and a legal battle that is still unfolding. We discuss what it looks like when a department loses trust from the inside out,...

In this episode I sit down with husband and wife coaching team Sarah and TJ Prieur about the systems, habits, and mindset shifts that helped them move from overwhelm and fight or flight into a more intentional family and professional life. They also unpack TJ’s traumatic fireground experiences, how those calls affected his nervous system, and why mindfulness, communication, and structure matter so...

Linda Crane is a Colorado firefighter/EMT, founder of Salty Sirens Training, and a national fire service instructor dedicated to developing competent, confident, and resilient firefighters. She has taught at regional and national conferences on topics including search operations, victim removal, ladders, VEIS, forcible entry, hose movement, firefighter health, leadership, and performance. In this...

In this episode of The CAN Report, I sit down with Jon Kasouf of Big Apple Fire Tactics for a deep conversation about the journey from volunteer fire service to the FDNY, the realities of training, and why standpipe operations matter so much in modern fireground operations. Jon shares how he got the urge to be a firefighter early as a kid in Central New York, grew up around volunteer fire service,...

In this episode, Anthony Gallane shares his inspiring journey of overcoming a traumatic spinal injury, the importance of brotherhood in the fire service, and leadership lessons learned through decades of experience. Discover how resilience, mindset, and integrity can transform challenges into opportunities for growth. In this episode, Tony Gillan and I delve into the realities of firefighting care...

In this episode, I sit down with Jazmyne Alston, a firefighter /EMT from Douglas County Fire and EMS, as she shares how she found her calling in emergency services after starting in healthcare. Jazmyne opens up about the grind of balancing school, two jobs, and motherhood, plus the public backlash she faced after a graduation post went viral. We also cover the value of strong instructors, the powe...

In this episode Jonathan Brumley, Lieutenant with the Denver Fire Department, talks us through engine company fundamentals, hose and nozzle selection, and the realities of standpipe and high-rise operations. The conversation is especially useful for firefighters who want practical ways to improve nozzle work, understand target flows, and build attack packages that match their district and staffing...

In this episode, I sit down with retired Deputy Chief Frank Viscuso for a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, failure, and the fire service culture that shapes both. Frank shares hard-earned lessons from decades in New Jersey fire service, from managing conflict and accountability to building trust without becoming soft on standards. We discuss how real leadership is built through experien...

In this heartfelt episode, Eric Wuensch shares his powerful journey through traumatic events, departmental changes, and the importance of mental health, family, and brotherhood in the fire service. His openness provides valuable lessons for first responders navigating similar challenges. This isn't just "another episode", It’s a conversation with a brother that I truly care for. He’s...

In this episode, Rob Ramirez, a passionate firefighter and instructor from Florida, shares insights from his nearly 25-year career, including building a new department in Jupiter, FL, and teaching globally in Germany. Discover how effective training, social media, and international collaboration are transforming the fire service. Not only is Rob the training Chief for the Jupiter,FL fire departmen...

Ian's journey began as a volunteer firefighter at just 16 years old. Inspired by the Scouts, he sought a community that would fill the void left by a tumultuous childhood. "I wanted to help people," Ian reflects, emphasizing that the desire to serve is a common thread among firefighters. He described how the firehouse offered a sense of belonging, camaraderie, and purpose during a ti...

In this episode, Mark Von Appen shares insights on leadership, operational integrity, and the importance of culture in firefighting. Discover practical advice on building trust, handling negativity, and inspiring the next generation of firefighters. Mark Von Appen is a fire service professional with over 25 years of experience, having served as a company officer for the City of Palo Alto Fire Depa...

In this episode, Louie Disney shares his remarkable journey from a motorcycle accident and addiction to becoming a resilient firefighter, mental health advocate, and fitness competitor. Discover insights on overcoming adversity, the importance of mental health resources like NextRung, and tips for physical and mental resilience. Louis Disney is a 40-year-old firefighter and EMT based in Colorado,...

In this episode, Jake Dickes shares his journey, training philosophies, and insights on leadership, continuous learning, and department improvements. Discover practical tips on honing skills, embracing data-driven decisions, and fostering a passionate fire service culture. Jake Dickes began his firefighting career alongside his father in 2003 as a volunteer in northern Colorado. He quickly became...

In this episode, I had a great conversation with a Fire Service "OG" Ian Bruzenak. Ian Bruzenak is a dedicated firefighter with years of experience in the fire service. Having transitioned from the East Coast to Colorado, Ian has built a career grounded in practical training and education. He is actively involved in teaching various firefighting techniques, including ladder operations an...

This episode shares a powerful story of resilience, healing, and the importance of mental health support within the fire service. Join us as we delve into personal struggles, recovery, and innovative wellness initiatives aimed at first responders. In this episode: Chris Johnson from Twin Falls, Idaho, discusses his journey from childhood trauma to becoming a resilient firefighter The mental health...

In the world of firefighting, the stakes are high, and the need for effective training is paramount. In this episode, I dive into an insightful conversation with Tevin Sims, Division Chief of Training and Community Risk Reduction for Douglas County Fire and EMS. Tevin shares his journey, the challenges he faced, and the innovative approaches he's implementing to elevate training standards in t...