Fire Engineering Podcast Network

In this episode of Fire Service Data and Tech Talk, host Eddie Buchanan discusses the challenges fire departments with limited technological resources face.  The episode focuses on the valuable work of the Africa Fire Mission (AFM), and features three guests: Dave Moore, AFM's founder, Nancy Moore, cofounder, and Jose Ngunjiri, fire safety officer for AFM. They shed light on their mission to provi...

In this episode of Hooks & Hoses, host Eric Dreiman sits down with Lieutenant Steve Robertson of the Columbus (OH) Division of Fire, a seasoned firefighter with 35 years of experience. Lieutenant Robertson shares insights from his 32-year career. He discusses engine company operations, including techniques for effective hose deployment, the challenges short-staffed departments face, and real-w...

Join hosts Lisa Baker the Southwest Trustee for Women in Fire, and Megan Saylors, the Northwest Trustee for Women in Fire, as they delve into the journey of becoming a firefighter in today's demanding environment. Featuring guests Kim Phillips, a district chief from Houston, and Kat Desonier, a firefighter paramedic from Evans, Colorado, this episode offers a comprehensive look at the unique chall...

In this episode of Talkin' Tactics, hosts David Polikoff, Robert “RJ” James, and Sam Villani welcome guest Brayden Masters, a firefighter from Frederick County, Maryland. With over two years in the field, Masters shares his journey of transitioning from recruit to rookie in a busy station, providing a fresh perspective on the challenges and triumphs he has faced. The discussion explores the import...

In this episode of Tailboard Talk, hosts Chris Rasmussen, Craig Nelson, and Jeff Wallin discuss the unique challenges faced by firefighters in extreme-cold conditions. Drawing from personal anecdotes and real-life experiences, the discussion highlights the importance of preparation, adaptation, and safety measures that are critical during the bitter winter months. From the intricacies of managing...

Now that you’re on the job, get into the job. In this episode of Fire Engineering's The Command Post, hosts Rick Lasky and John Salka explore the essential pathway rookie firefighters must follow in order to truly thrive in their roles. Drawing from their wealth of experience, they emphasize the importance of commitment, attitude, and training. Gain insights about the mindset necessary for a succe...

In this episode of The Professional Volunteer Fire Department podcast, host Tom Merrill engages in a dynamic conversation with fire service veteran Jerry Knapp. Their discussion focuses on the multifaceted challenges facing volunteer firefighters, including dwindling participation, burnout from frequent false alarms, and the need for strategic leadership. Merrill’s insights into the 2025 fire serv...

In this episode, hosts Ron Kanterman and Tom Aurnhammer cover a range of subjects, including LODDs and a firefighter who was stricken with Alzheimer's and received pension and benefits from his town. They also discuss the recent air crashes in Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., as well as fire department preparedness for such disasters. Other topics include reputation management and some outlandis...

In this episode of Perspectives on Leadership, host Steve Shaw welcomes guest DJ Stone, a seasoned firefighter and educator with over 25 years of experience. During their discussion, they delve into the transformative power of mentorship, the importance of community relationships, and the evolving standards within the fire service. Stone shares his insights on recent trends, including advancements...

In this engaging podcast episode of Fire Service Court, hosts Brad Pinsky, John K. Murphy, and Chip Comstock discuss the critical importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the fire service. With alarming statistics revealing that 70% of lawsuits in this sector stem from discrimination and harassment, the discussion emphasizes the urgency for change. The hosts offer actionable str...

On this episode of Sons of the Flag, the hosts are honored to welcome Kegan “Smurf” Gill, author of Phoenix Revival: The Aftermath of Naval Aviation’s Fastest Survived Ejection. Gill's harrowing story of recovery and his mental fortitude is one to be studied by anyone seeking to improve their life. Coming back from the brink of death, Gill rose like the phoenix from devastating injuries, mental br...

In this riveting episode of Command Show, host Anthony Kastros engages in a profound conversation with Mo Khazaal, of the Los Angeles County (CA) Fire Department. They delve into the complexities of wildland firefighting amidst catastrophic conditions. As they discuss recent wildfires in Southern California, Khazaal shares valuable insights from his extensive experience, including the unique chall...

Host Dave McGlynn talks with firefighter Sean Duffy about his innovative program, "Searchable vs. Survivable." The discussion highlights the shift in mindset needed to improve search tactics in the fire service, delving into the importance of in-depth size-up approaches, effective training methodologies, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Duffy emphasizes the necessity of merging s...

Join host Doug Cline as he welcomes Chris Naum to discuss the fundamental principles of fireground size-up through the "Coal Was Wealth" framework. During this dynamic conversation, the two explore the critical decision-making process firefighters experience within the critical first minutes of an incident response.    They cover topics including building construction, occupancy profiling, water s...

In this episode of Fire Service Data and Tech Talk, host Eddie Buchanan sits down with wildfire experts Anthony Schultz, of ESRI, and Braniff Davis, of the Austin (TX) Fire Department, to explore cutting-edge strategies for wildfire mitigation and response. From predictive mapping and community risk assessments to real-time firefighter tracking, discover how data and technology are revolutionizing...

In this episode of Women in Fire, host Lisa Baker welcomes the following guests:  Chief Latosha Clemons: Forest Park (GA) Fire and Emergency Services Department  Chief Hilda Moses (ret.): South Fulton (GA) Fire Rescue Department Firefighter Amber Piggue: Berkeley (CA) Fire Department Firefighter Kat Desonier: Evans (CO) Fire District Co. They discuss the importance of women supporting women in the...

For this episode of Talkin' Tactics, hosts David Polikoff and Robert "RJ" James welcome guest Rob Zajac as they dive into the challenges and strategies of cold-weather firefighting. In this episode, they discuss essential preparations for firefighters, from personal gear like crampons and hand warmers to station setups and apparatus readiness. Learn about the importance of teamwork in snow conditi...

In this episode of Tactical Impact, hosts Jim Silvernail and Jason Hoevelmann discuss chimney fire tactics with guest Jim Edelstein, a 36-year law enforcement veteran and a Fannin County (GA) firefighter. They explore the unique challenges of chimney fires, including the use of innovative tools, like polesaws, for interior operations.    Edelstein shares his experiences from the NYPD's Emergency S...

In this episode of Hooks & Hoses, the host reflects on two critical topics: fostering a supportive fire service culture and debunking the myth of a one-size-fits-all approach to firefighting. From the dangers of negativity on social media to the importance of adaptable best practices, this episode challenges traditional mindsets and encourages collaboration and growth.  Listen to learn more.  ...

In this episode of Buildings on Fire: Taking It to the Streets, host Chris Naum tackles the critical topic of building collapse and fireground safety. This episode is part one of a new series on size-up literacy. From the challenges of modern construction methods to lessons learned from past line-of-duty deaths, Naum provides invaluable insights into recognizing collapse indicators, understanding...

Most fire departments provide residents who are interested in volunteering with membership applications. Unfortunately, many departments ask prohibited (or even illegal) questions on their membership application. Even worse, the practices some departments employ when interviewing applicants, accepting them into membership, and guiding them through their probationary period have also gotten those d...

In this episode of Back Step Boys, hosts Ron Kanterman and Tom Aurnhammer welcome Deputy Chief Robert Beattie from the North Plainfield (NJ) Fire Department. A 36-year veteran of the fire service, Beatty shares stories of his journey, lessons from leadership, and the transformative power of mentorship and training. From training's connection to fireground safety, the back to basics concept and the...

Join host David Rhodes on In the Books as he discusses the comprehensive book High-Rise Buildings: Understanding the Vertical Challenges with authors Gerald Tracy and Jack Murphy. During this episode, they delve into the complexities of high-rise firefighting, including history, building construction, fire protection systems, and tactical operations. Listeners will learn about the unique challenge...

In this compelling episode of Generation Engine, guest Clyde Gordon joins hosts Todd Edwards and Anthony Rowett to discuss the profound impact of leadership and legacy in the fire service. From lessons learned on building strong team cultures to transformative mentorship moments, the conversation highlights how small actions can leave lasting impressions on individuals and communities.  Listen to...

Join Chris Rasmussen, Craig Nelson, and Jeff Wallin on this episode of Tailboard Talk as they dive into the evolving landscape of firefighter training. From the pros and cons of virtual learning platforms to the enduring value of hands-on drills, the hosts explore how fire departments can balance tradition with technology. Hear their takes on the effectiveness of current methods, the role of manda...