Valley Watch

Public Information Specialist and PFD Public Affairs social media guru Tory Weeks joins Valley Watch to discuss the biggest viral hits of the PFD social media accounts and the strategy behind managing the social media accounts for one of the largest fire departments in the country.

Jody Oehler discusses the Phoenix Fire Department’s role in assisting with the Texas Hill Country flooding search and rescue efforts, offers helpful reminders for hiking safety this summer and announces a brand new collaboration between the Phoenix Fire Department, Local 493 and State 48.

Jody Oehler sits down with Fire Communications Supervisor Mike Berlyn to discuss the vital role of dispatchers play in public safety and the availability of telehealth to those calling 911 for non-life threatening incidents.

Jody Oehler sits down with Lt. Brian Rimsza to discuss the City of Phoenix’s Joint Task Force between Fire and Police to curb fire-related incidents and curb illegal firework usage.

Summer is here, and Phoenix Fire is turning up the heat on safety! Join us for a special radio segment as we dive into hiking safety, heat awareness, and all things summer preparedness. From avoiding heat-related emergencies on the trails to keeping your family safe around water and outdoors, we’ve got expert tips and real-life stories to help you stay cool and informed.  

Join the Phoenix Fire Department and the Office of Emergency Management as we kick off monsoon season with a special radio segment focused on safety, preparedness, and community resilience.

As temperatures rise, so does the risk. In this episode of Valley Watch, the Office of Heat Response and Mitigation joins us to talk about the dangers of extreme heat and how you can protect yourself and your loved ones during the hottest months in Phoenix.  We cover critical safety tips, signs of heat-related illness, and share resources like 24/7 cooling centers, hydration stations, and tra...

Summer is here, and Phoenix pools are officially open! In this episode of Valley Watch, we're joined by Aquatics Supervisor Becky Kirk, who dives into important topics like water safety, drowning prevention, and how families can take advantage of $15 swim lessons offered at City of Phoenix pools. Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or just looking to stay safe around the water, this episode is pac...

Host Ali Pardi

In this episode of Valley Watch , we shine a light on the critical issue of mental health in the fire service. Captain Ray Maione joins the conversation to discuss the unique mental health challenges faced by firefighters and the importance of breaking the stigma around seeking help. We explore the wide range of support available through member services, including counseling, peer support programs...

May the Fourth be with you! In honor of National Firefighter Appreciation Day, Captain Rob McDade and Captain Mike Johnson join this episode of Valley Watch to discuss summer safety.

In this heartfelt episode of the Valley Watch, we sit down with District 7 Councilman Carlos Galindo-Alvira as he prepares to wrap up his term on April 21st. Galindo-Alvira has been a dedicated champion for the community, and his partnership with Phoenix Fire has been invaluable. Join us as we reflect on his time in office, highlighting the major wins that have helped improve the safety and well-b...

In this episode of the Phoenix Fire Podcast, we’re joined by Councilwoman Betty Guardado of District 5 to discuss the incredible partnership between her office and Phoenix Fire. We’ll highlight her support for the community and the fire department, and express our gratitude for her continued dedication to public safety. Councilwoman Guardado also shares exciting details about the upcom...

In this special episode of the Valley Watch, we’re diving into the powerful and eye-opening feature film "Dying to Save You" by filmmaker Patrick Graham. This poignant film sheds light on the harsh realities of the firefighting profession, particularly the hidden dangers firefighters face in their battle with occupational cancer.

Phoenix Fire is teaming up with Phoenix Police to host a dynamic recruitment event on April 19th , aimed at individuals passionate about serving and protecting their community. Tune in to hear from Phoenix Fire’s Recruitment Captain Richie Robnett. Whether you're looking to be a firefighter or a police officer, this event will provide you with all the information you need about the applicati...

In this episode, we explore how the City of Phoenix and the Phoenix Fire Department are gearing up for another scorching summer. Executive Assistant Fire Chief Tim Kreis joins us to discuss the department’s heat response strategies and mitigation efforts, working closely with local officials to keep the community safe. Last year’s initiatives led to a 20% reduction in heat-related 911...

In this episode of  Valley Watch , Captain Daniel “DJ” Lee joins as the Phoenix Fire Department’s newest Public Information Officer (PIO). As the department’s spokesperson, he shares insights into his role, responsibilities, and what it takes to communicate effectively with the public and media during emergencies. Captain Lee discusses his background in the fire s...

Join us as we have a conversation with Deputy Chief, Mike Schamadan of the Phoenix Fire Dept. Chief Schamadan reflects on his 37 years with PFD and shares an insight of what it means to be the Shift Commander of one of the largest fire departments in the country. 

Phoenix Fire is excited to introduce its new civilian Public Information Officer, Jody Oehler! As part of our ongoing commitment to strengthening the bond between the fire department and the community, Jody will play a key role in enhancing communication and outreach. Tune in as we discuss their vision for building stronger relationships, sharing important safety information, and engaging with loc...

In this episode of Valley Watch , we dive into the complexities of wildland-urban interface (WUI) firefighting as we gear up for another potentially challenging summer season. Our expert guests, including seasoned firefighters, discuss the unique challenges of combating fires in areas where urban development meets wildland areas. From strategic firefighting techniques to community preparedness, we...

Host Ali Pardi

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Kevin Foster, the leading burn surgeon at Valleywise Health, to discuss the hospital’s long-standing partnership with the Phoenix Fire Department. Dr. Foster shares insights into how this collaboration ensures world-class burn care for patients, from the scene of an emergency to specialized treatment at the hospital. He also recounts the recent efforts t...

Honoring Our Own: On this episode of Valley Watch, Phoenix Fire Captain Rob McDade joins Ali to remember Captain Anthony Mork, discuss the Fight Against Firefighter Cancer, and the Dedication of Fire Station 62.

Join us as we sit down with retired Phoenix Fire Captain Bill Rini, who shares his powerful journey as one of the first firefighters in Phoenix to be diagnosed with cancer. In this heartfelt interview, Captain Rini opens up about his battle, his mission to prevent cancer in the fire service, and his dedication to supporting firefighters and their families through the toughest challenges. A story o...

Join this episode of Valley Watch as we sit down with a seasoned Fire Captain from the City of Phoenix's Homeland Defense Bureau. In this episode, we dive into the critical role Bradely Johnston plays in preparing for and managing large-scale incidents, from natural disasters to major events hosted in one of the country’s fastest-growing cities.