National Fire Radio Podcast Platform

In this episode, I break down the real-world decisions behind firefighter removal—when to package a downed firefighter and when speed takes priority. Training gives us structure, but on the fireground, those lines blur fast. We’ll talk about how to bridge the gap between textbook drills and the messy reality of getting one of our own out alive.

Jeremy is joined by Blake Richardson and Harrison Klein of EaseAlert, an innovative company that is changing the way station alerting works across the country. Focusing on the health and wellness of firefighters, their sensory equipment assists with lower stress alerting, creating a better way for firefighters to be notified about a response. For more information, check out www.easealert.com.

A throwback to one of the Bridging the Gap events at the Key City Fire Conference,

While attending the Firemanship conference, Mickey sits down and talks with Zack Newton.

The Shimek from the CIV Podcast joins Jeremy as they discuss Jeremy's love for the "As Is" section in IKEA. An interesting conversation for sure. Join us for sa fun conversation that unpacks alot of what we all deal with everyday.

Jeremy and Steve Barton discuss the intricacies of the fire service, emphasizing the importance of relationships, mentorship, and adapting to a younger workforce. They explore the challenges and changes in firefighting, including the impact of technology, the significance of RIT and Mayday policies, and the culture within fire departments today. Steve shares his journey from a truck firefighter to...

In this episode, we talk summer fires, the stack effect, and why reading smoke isn’t just about color, volume, and velocity. Heat, humidity, and building behavior change the game—if you’re not paying attention to the details on arrival, you’re already behind the eight ball.

The "NO" Culture... controlling the narrative with the power of NO. Weak leaders, those who lack confidence in their own skills and abilities will never lift up those around them with the power of YES. This is a segment of Jeremy's Bridging the Gap program from Kings Park, NY.

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. The conversation highlights the challenges posed by...

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-driven decision-making. Tom shares insights on how th...

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.

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 programs offered by the NFFF, including in-person...

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 do to stay ahead of them.

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.

If Not You, Then Who? – A Conversation with Chief Shannon Stone Description / 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 multiple departments across Florida, and his experi...

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 focus on compassionate care. Together, they explo...

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 operations, the impact of personal agendas, and the cr...

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-by-step breakdown of a challenging cellar fire h...

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 justice for the victims and their families. He discusses...

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 the importance of education for first responders in...

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 job done right.

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 passion in their work, and challenge listeners to...

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 book, Scout the Firehouse Mascot. Together, they...

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 service, and the significance of mentorship. The disc...

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 of community service and the innovative repurposi...