The First Things First

On this episode, I have a conversation with Captain Jeremie Humphrey about stepping into firefighting later in life, the importance of peer support, mental health, and faith-based resilience. This heartfelt discussion offers practical advice for firefighters and their families navigating the unique stresses of the profession.

summary In this episode, Derek Carlisle and I explore the intersection of faith and mental health, emphasizing that struggles are part of the human experience even for Christians. We shared personal stories, biblical insights, and practical tips for relying on Jesus during tough times. We all need community, prayer, and res to lean on our mental wellness. Prayer Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/...

On this episode I had a great conversation with Adam Kowing, a law enforcement officer who may not wear the same uniform as me, but has a similar mission on his front line; Which is to encourage men to be bold in their faith and live out their God-given purpose. We talked about faith, mental health, and his calling in law enforcement. Much like us in the fire service, Adam's career in law enfo...

In this episode, I invited my friend Jamie Bryce to share his powerful journey of faith, resilience, and hope after experiencing the devastating loss of his children in a house fire. Jamey's story not only hit close to home because of our friendship, but also as a great reminder for us, as firefighters, that there is much more to the story after we pack up our equipment and head back to the fi...

In this episode, Nicole O'Donnell shares her powerful story of overcoming childhood trauma, addiction, and mental health struggles to find purpose in the fire service. How her book, Diary of a Probie, aims to set a new standard for the next generation of firefighters and inspire others to walk by faith. She gives practical insights on fitness, mental health, leadership, and the significance of...

In this episode, Preston Lyons talks about his journey to becoming a firefighter, the importance of putting family first, and how he found the love for the job by attending firefighter conferences. The conversation also delves into the challenges of maintaining balance in life and the evolution of the Overhaul podcast, emphasizing the need for continuous improvement and passion in the profession....

In this powerful episode, Tanner shares his raw and inspiring story of battling mental health struggles, the importance of faith-based resilience programs, and how God transformed his life through community, counseling, and the Mighty Oaks Foundation. His journey offers hope and encouragement for first responders, veterans, and anyone facing adversity. Mighty Oaks Program:https://www.mightyoakspro...

In this episode, I got a chance to chat with Colby Rich, a bi-vocational pastor who became a firefighter. We discussed the challenges and rewards of balancing these responsibilities, the importance of prioritizing family and ministry, and the lessons he learned through leadership in both the fire service and church. Colby shares insights from his experiences, including his journey into writing and...

In this episode, I have a conversation with Daniel Allis, host of Faith in the Firehouse Podcast. We talked about his journey from a normal childhood to becoming a firefighter. Daniel shares insights into the influence of his upbringing, his fire service journey, and the pivotal moment in his life that led him to grow closer to God and walk in Faith. You can find more of his content on Faith in th...

In this episode of The First Things First show, I open season two with a solo podcast, focusing on the importance of prioritizing your purpose in the fire service. I will talk about some of the challenges faced in the profession, the significance of community support, and the need for personal growth. I also talk about the importance of living out your faith through firefighting. I also share some...

In this episode, Nate Beuschel discusses the challenges and rewards of his career, the importance of mentorship, and his personal struggles with mental health and identity. Nate emphasizes the significance of faith, family, and community support in overcoming adversity and finding purpose in life. He also shares about his platform, Suffer-Up, which encourages others to embrace challenges and grow...

In this episode, I sat down with Fernando Benitez from Next Level Dad Fitness. Fernando shares how his passion for faith, family, fitness, and firefighting drives everything he does—both in and out of the firehouse. From his personal fitness journey to his mission of influencing men and women in the fire service to live healthier, more intentional lives, this conversation is packed with wisdom, vu...

In this episode, Griffin Coiner, a firefighter and founder of Stash Salt, shares about his journey into the fire service, his faith, and the importance of family. Griffin shares his personal experiences, including a significant leap of faith during challenging times, and how he navigated relationships within the fire service. He discusses the founding of Stash Salt and the mission behind it, empha...

In this episode, Patrick Long discusses his journey as a firefighter, his faith, and the importance of being mission-minded in both personal and professional life. Pat opens up about his background, his marriage, and the impact of his faith on his family and career. The discussion also highlights The Decon Project, which aims to raise awareness about cancer in the fire service community.

In this engaging episode, Derek Carlisle and Paul Floyd from Forged in Darkness discuss their journeys in the fire service, their Christian faith, and the importance of mentorship and community. They share personal testimonies of how their faith has shaped their lives and careers, emphasizing the significance of walking with God and the impact of being a positive influence in the fire service. The...

In this engaging episode, Derek Carlisle and Paul Floyd from Forged in Darkness discuss their journeys in the fire service, their Christian faith, and the importance of mentorship and community. They share personal testimonies of how their faith has shaped their lives and careers, emphasizing the significance of walking with God and the impact of being a positive influence in the fire service. The...

In this episode, Ret. Captain Anthony Gillan explores the journey of a firefighter, from military service to the challenges faced in the fire service. Anthony shares his personal story of injury, recovery, and the role of faith in his life. They discuss the importance of mentorship, reevaluating priorities, and the job emphasizes the impact firefighters can have on people's lives and the signi...

In this episode, Chief Andy Starnes explores his journey as a firefighter, discussing the challenges and triumphs he faced in the fire service. He delves into the importance of prioritizing faith and family over the job, the role of spouses in personal growth, and the necessity of shining a light in the darkness of the fire service. Andy shares his experiences with leadership challenges and emphas...

In this episode, Jason Sautel, a retired Oakland firefighter and author of the book The Rescue, shares his transformative journey from a troubled childhood to finding purpose in the fire service and ultimately discovering faith. Jason discusses the challenges he faced, including mental health struggles and the impact of traumatic experiences on his life and career. He emphasizes the importance of...

In this episode, we get to hear from Blake Stinnett, who shares his journey from a family background in the fire service to his own career as a firefighter and the founding of Next Rung, a nonprofit focused on mental health support for first responders. Blake discusses the importance of family, faith, and communication in navigating the challenges of the fire service, including his own personal st...

In this episode, we talk with retired Seattle Fire Department Captain Mike Gagliano to discuss the profound impact of the fire service on personal and family life. Mike reflects on his love for the job, the camaraderie of the firehouse, and the challenges of balancing family dynamics with a demanding career. We discuss the importance of commitment in a Godly centered marriage, the unique challenge...

In this episode, Julian Serrano from Prepared to Fight Fire discusses the journey of becoming a firefighter, the importance of self-improvement, mentorship, and mental health in the fire service. Julian emphasizes the importance of setting personal standards, the value of mentorship, and the need for self-care in a demanding profession. The discussion also touches on the Smoke Diver program and it...

In this conversation with retired Battalion Chief Jimmy Pellitteri, we discuss the profound journey of a firefighter, exploring themes of calling, resilience, and the importance of community and faith. Battalion Chief Pellitteri shares his personal story of overcoming a challenging upbringing, the significance of creating a supportive culture within the firehouse, and the vital role of family and...

In this conversation, Jonathan 'JD' Diaz explores the intersection of his faith, fitness, and his life in the fire service. JD shares his journey as a probationary firefighter at the age of 40, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, servant leadership, and maintaining a strong faith. He discusses the challenges of balancing multiple roles, the significance of community support, and the need for...

In this episode, Jeremy Sanders, host of the Crew 1st Culture Podcast, shares about the intricate balance between family life, faith, and a career in the fire service. Jeremy talks about his personal journey, including the challenges of being a step-parent in a blended family, the importance of prioritizing relationships, and the struggles of maintaining passion for the job over a long career. He...