Third Due First In

In this episode we talk with Robert about his new book, his passion for sharing stories from the fire service, and why every firefighter’s path matters. He walks us through the value of passing down lessons, the importance of finding your own story, and what inspired him to write about the history and experiences that shape our job. Join us for a relaxed conversation about tradition, mentorship, a...

Keith and Geno open with the recent explosion at U.S. Steel’s Clairton Works that claimed two lives and injured several others. Guest Rob Lisiecki from Clairton Works Emergency Services shares what it was like on scene and explains how their emergency department operates inside one of the region’s largest industrial sites. Then the crew looks back at the 1999 K-Mart Fire in Pleasant Hills —a day n...

In Episode 18, Chief Scott Garing joins the show to talk about the merger between the Harmony and Zelienople Fire Departments and what it takes to bring two volunteer companies together under one name. We also discuss leadership, department culture, and how collaboration can strengthen the fire service as a whole. Listen now and stay connected with the Third Due First In Podcast on Spotify, Apple...

In this episode, Keith and Geno sit down with Pennsylvania State Fire Commissioner Thomas Cook to discuss the current state of the volunteer fire service. They cover training challenges, statewide recruitment and retention efforts, funding updates, and how the Commonwealth is addressing the growing need for staffing support across departments. Commissioner Cook also shares insights from his decade...

This week we’re joined by North Strabane Fire Chief Mark Grimm , who shares his experience leading the transformation of an all-volunteer fire company into one of Western Pennsylvania’s most respected combination departments. Chief Grimm discusses staffing, leadership, culture, and the importance of firefighter health and fitness in today’s fire service. Plus, we cover regional fire news and updat...

In Episode 15 of Third Due First In , we sit down with Amber from Bella Terra Stables to talk about their therapy horse program and how equine-assisted healing is helping first responders, veterans, and families find balance and peace through the power of horses. Then we’re joined once again by Chief Deputy Fire Marshal Don “DB” Brucker , who continues our important discussion on firefighter cance...

in Episode 14 of Third Due First In , we start with Mariah Murphy , who shares the story of her therapy dog Buddy and how programs like hers bring comfort to people during their most difficult times. Then we sit down with Allegheny County Chief Deputy Fire Marshal Don Brucker for an in-depth discussion on PTSI in the fire service . We cover the challenges first responders face, the importance of m...

In Episode 13 of Third Due First In , Keith and Geno sit down with Attorney Kim Houser—Assistant Chief in Greensburg, PA, rescue specialist with PA-HART and Region 13 Strike Team, Pro-Board Fire Officer I-IV, and senior partner at Mears, Smith, Houser & Boyle, P.C. Kim brings his extensive experience representing over 200 fire departments to unpack the legal side of firehouse operations. We di...

In this episode of Third Due First In , Keith is joined by co-host Dan Haeck as they welcome Charleroi Fire Chief Robert Whiten Jr., Captain Matt Prentice, and Captain/Paramedic Kerry McCorkle Jr. to discuss a recent successful trench rescue . The crew walks us through the challenges, tactics, and teamwork that made the operation a success. Plus, Keith and Dan cover recent fire news, honor the sac...

Episode 11 of Third Due First In , we open with Geno’s Raised by Giants segment — proudly sponsored by FireCam (firecam.com). From there, we reflect on the events of September 11th, honoring those lost and sharing personal experiences from that day. Dan then takes us into a powerful discussion on notable plane crashes throughout his life, leading into Flight 93. We also cover the latest fire servi...

In Episode 10 of Third Due First In , we sit down with Chief Dillon Coleman to talk about the benefits of live-in programs, laying line under pressure, and how these programs help shape the next generation of firefighters. Deputy Chief Geno shares a training moment, and we hit the latest news from around the fire service. This episode is brought to you with support from FireCam.com — makers of hel...

In this episode of Third Due First In , we sit down with Steven Marsh from Station 235 Logan’s Ferry Heights in Plum Borough to discuss their new stipend program and its impact on the department. Geno leads a “training moment” on mayday procedures and why following them to the letter can make all the difference. We also feature helmet cam footage from Sullivan Esken, followed by an in-studio discu...

In this episode of Third Due First In, we dive into the challenges facing the fire service in Allegheny County and what steps can be taken to move forward. Special Guest: Allegheny County Council President Pat Catena, discussing his recent meetings with local fire companies and what county government can do to help. Co-Host: Chief Dan Haeck, sharing his thoughts on a way forward for the fire servi...

In Episode 7 of Third Due First In, we kick things off with McKeesport FF Sean Sokolowski sharing highlights about the Jimmy Ellis Training Weekend. Our main guest, Chief James Rush, joins us to break down recent county meetings focused on how to better support local fire departments. Chief Dan Haeck weighs in on the current state of the volunteer fire service and discusses the book Behind the Bad...