The Original Firefighter Podcast

Episode 76: Most people see fireworks as pure entertainment — but as firefighters, we know the hidden danger behind the explosions. In this special episode celebrating America’s 250th birthday, discover how fireworks turn into fiery emergencies that can level homes, injure loved ones, and threaten lives. Montana firefighter Will Peterson and guest Aaron Bibe share firsthand stories of catastrophic...

Episode 75:Most firefighter incidents that claim lives often hide their danger behind what seems like routine calls. But what if the seemingly ordinary... turns deadly? On this episode, we revisit two devastating June fires—the FDNY’s infamous Father’s Day fire in 2001 and the Charleston warehouse fire of 2007—that took the lives of dedicated heroes. Their stories highlight critical lessons about...

Episode 74:Most fire departments are stretched thin, responding to an alarming surge of non-emergency calls — and now, some are about to start charging for them. Why is this happening, and what does it mean for the future of emergency services? If you've ever wondered how budget constraints, staffing shortages, and community reliance shape response protocols, this episode is your behind-the-sc...

Episode 73: Most fire departments learn the hard way that quick decisions and precise communication during a major incident can save lives — or cost them. In this episode, retired Deputy Chief Will Peterson and Arizona Fire Science Director Robert Borker dive deep into a catastrophic church fire that resulted in multiple firefighter injuries and a harrowing Mayday. They reveal crucial lessons on m...

Episode 72: Most dispatchers work silently behind the scenes, but their impact is everything. During National Dispatcher Week, discover why these frontline heroes are the true lifelines of emergency response — and why they deserve our recognition now more than ever. In this impactful episode, Will Pederson breaks down the critical role of 911 dispatchers and telecommunicators, revealing just how m...

Episode 71: Is the US aviation system dangerously close to a breakdown? After yet another tragedy at LaGuardia, insights from experienced firefighters and aviation experts reveal a troubling pattern of systemic failures—one imminent enough to threaten safety across the skies. If you fly regularly, or care about the future of safe air travel, this episode is critical listening. In this episode, we...

Episode 69: Cook & Ladder Co. Products: Cookbook: https://a.co/d/04PRRzuX Spices: https://shop.app/m/k1b06yvdet?dynamicFilterVAvailability=%7B%22available%22%3Atrue%7D&inStock=true&sortBy=MOST_SALES Most firefighters agree: the firehouse is a family, and food is its secret glue. But behind the doors of this brotherhood lies a surprisingly rich culture of eating, storytelling, and tradi...

Episode 68: Most firefighters and safety advocates overlook how human behavior, human error, and code enforcement can prevent disasters — even when tragedy strikes. In this eye-opening episode, we dive deep into the critical lessons from the 23-year anniversary of the Station Nightclub fire, a tragedy that shaped fire safety regulations nationwide. You’ll discover how unchecked overcrowding, renov...

Episode 67:Firefighting isn't just about fighting flames—it's about fighting the silent threat that could cut your career or life short: occupational cancer. In this eye-opening episode, veteran firefighter and fire science expert Robert Borker shares his personal journey from health scares to becoming a pioneering voice in cancer prevention. His story isn't just about him—it's a wake-up call for...

Episode 66: Host Will Pederson and FDNY Firefighter Richard Mercado, explore the appointment of the new FDNY fire commissioner, discussing the unique requirements for leading the FDNY. They delve into the balance between EMS and fire service roles, emphasizing the importance of street credibility in leadership. The episode also highlights a personal story of a firefighter injured in the line of du...

Episode 64: Join hosts Will and Aaron in this special year-end edition of Original Firefighter as they reflect on the highs and lows of 2025. From celebrating the milestone of reaching 1,000 subscribers to discussing the year's most impactful events, including the Los Angeles wildfires and the rise of AI, this episode offers a comprehensive look back at the year. Tune in for insights, gratitud...

Episode 63: In this episode, we delve into the troubling culture of hazing within the firefighting community, spotlighting a harrowing incident in Marion County, Florida. Join us as we explore the broader implications of such practices on fire service culture, the fine line between tradition and abuse, and the urgent call for change. Discover how these events are reshaping the conversation around...

Episode 62: In this gripping episode of "The Original Firefighter," host Will Peterson delves into two catastrophic fires that marked the Thanksgiving weekend. From the deadly high-rise blaze in Hong Kong, which claimed over 150 lives, to the multi-alarm warehouse fire in St. Louis, Missouri, Will provides an in-depth analysis of these tragic events. He explores the challenges faced by f...

Episode 61: Join host Will Peterson and guest Aaron Biby as they dive into the heart of Thanksgiving traditions and the challenges facing firefighters today. From the joy of family gatherings to the serious implications of staffing cuts in Aurora, Illinois, this episode covers it all. Discover how the firefighting community is responding to these changes and what it means for public safety. Plus,...

Episode 60: Join us in this entertaining episode as we honor our veterans, discuss the current government shutdown and dive into the world of firefighting portrayed in Hollywood. Our hosts, Will and Aaron, humorously critique and react to various firefighting scenes from popular movies and TV shows. From electrifying pool rescues to dramatic cliffside saves, they break down the realism and share t...

Episode 59: Join hosts Will and Aaron on the Original Firefighter Podcast as they review recent events in the world of firefighting. This episode explores the intense experiences of Mayday calls, and the critical lessons learned from flashover events. With shout-outs to brave firefighters and insights into the challenges faced on the fireground, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested...

Episode 58: Join us for a spine-chilling episode of the Original Firefighter Podcast, just in time for the spooky season. We delve into the haunted history of Camp Grant in Rockford, Illinois, where the ghosts of 1918 still linger. Hear firsthand accounts from firefighters and paramedics who have encountered the paranormal, including a mysterious tale from Firehouse Number Seven and a chilling enc...

Episode 57: Join us for a thrilling episode of the Original Firefighter Podcast as we dive into the eerie world of Halloween. From discussing the infamous Devil's Night in Detroit to sharing our top Halloween movie picks, this episode is packed with spooky stories and chilling trivia. We also explore real-life paranormal encounters and the suspenseful experiences of first responders. Don't miss ou...

Episode 56: In this episode, we tackle three compelling topics affecting the fire service and beyond. First, we delve into the critical issue of fire truck manufacturing delays in the U.S., a problem so severe it has reached Senate hearings. Will and Phil discuss the impact of outdated equipment on fire departments and the challenges posed by monopolistic practices in the industry. Next, we explor...

Episode 55: Join our hosts Will Pederson and Aaron Biby in a special edition of the Original Firefighter podcast as they explore "100 Days in Montana." Dive into the contrasts between firefighting in the Midwest and the unique challenges of the Pacific Northwest. Discover how the Original Firefighter team is growing and adapting, and learn about their commitment to supporting breast canc...

Episode 54: In this episode of the Original Firefighter Podcast, hosts Will Peterson and Phil Nedved delve into the profound impact of recent events on the firefighting community. They discuss the memorial service for Charlie Kirk, highlighting the massive turnout and the emotional tribute by his wife, Erica Kirk. The conversation shifts to the challenges faced by firefighters and law enforcement,...

Episode 53: In this episode of the Original Firefighter Podcast, hosts Will Peterson and Phil Nedved explore a range of pressing topics. They begin by spotlighting the wildland fire season, emphasizing support for firefighters and introducing merchandise from originalfirefighter.com that funds health and wellness initiatives. The conversation shifts to a tribute to Charlie Kirk, discussing the imp...

Episode 52: Join hosts Will Peterson and Phil Nedved on the Original Firefighter Podcast as they tackle the lighter side of firehouse life with a spirited discussion on the most indulgent and unhealthy meals cooked up in the station. From Philly cheesesteak skillets to massive cinnamon rolls, they share their favorite guilty pleasures and the culinary creativity that fuels firefighters. Alongside...

Episode 51 In this poignant episode, we delve into the profound reflections on September 11th, exploring its enduring impact on first responders. Join us as we hear firsthand accounts from FDNY Firefighter, Rich Mercado who served on the front lines, sharing his experiences and the lasting effects of that fateful day. From the immediate chaos to the long-term health challenges, this episode offers...

Episode 50: In this episode of the Original Firefighter Podcast, hosts Will and Phil are joined by the legendary Jared Vermeulen, straight from the sunny shores of Jupiter, Florida. Dive into the nitty-gritty of firefighting as we tackle everything from the chaos of Hurricane Katrina to the recent tragic shooting in Minneapolis, MN. Jared, author of "The Modern Fire Officer," shares his take on le...