Best Firefighting Podcasts (2025)

1
Generation Engine: Lessons from Conferences and Instructor Insights 1:07:45

1h ago1:07:45

1:07:45

Generation Engine: Lessons from Conferences and Instructor Insights In this episode of Generation Engine, hosts Anthony Rowett and Todd Edwards talk with guest Sean Duffy about the rapidly growing world of firefighter training conferences. They cover their grassroots efforts to bring impactful, hands-on education to local and national fire communit…

1
Tailboard Talk: Confronting MMIR and Human Trafficking in the Fire Service 1:00:37

1h ago1:00:37

1:00:37

Tailboard Talk: Confronting MMIR and Human Trafficking in the Fire Service In this episode of Tailboard Talk, fire service leaders tackle the urgent crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives (MMIR) alongside the complex realities of human trafficking. Monte Frank, a firefighter and emergency manager, shares the deeply personal story of hi…

1
The Command Post: Tools, Tradition, and the Firefighter's Mindset 57:29

2h ago57:29

57:29

The Command Post: Tools, Tradition, and the Firefighter's Mindset In this episode of The Command Post, Hosts Rick Lasky and John Salka take a meaningful look at the essential tools of firefighting, their care, and the knowledge behind them. From the iconic halligan’s origins in the FDNY to evolving equipment like hydraulic “rabbit” tools, they disc…

1
Frontline Mindset Episode 41. Grenfell, Grit, and Giving Back – A Conversation with Steve Aslin 1:03:10

13h ago1:03:10

1:03:10

In this episode of Frontline Mindset, Rob speaks with retired London Fire Brigade firefighter Steve Aslin, who shares his powerful journey through the fire service and his firsthand experience during the tragic Grenfell Tower fire. Steve offers a candid look into the emotional toll of that day, the lessons learned, and the ongoing pursuit of justic…

1
402. Ben's Blue Bags - Matt Kodicek 39:21

1d ago39:21

39:21

In this episode of the National Fire Radio Podcast, host Jeremy Donch speaks with Matt Kodicek about Ben's Blue Bags, a sensory bag initiative designed for children with autism. Matt shares his journey in the fire service and how his experiences as a father to a child on the spectrum inspired him to create these bags. The conversation emphasizes th…

1
The Professional Volunteer Fire Department: Turning a Volunteer Fire Department Around 1:11:56

1d ago1:11:56

1:11:56

The Professional Volunteer Fire Department: Turning a Volunteer Fire Department Around In this episode of the Professional Volunteer Fire Department, host Tom Merrill welcomes Chief John Buchan of the Florissant (CO) Fire Protection District. Buchan shares how he turned a struggling volunteer fire department around in just one year—doubling members…

1
The Backstop Boys: The Lifesaving Power of Fire Codes 1:16:44

3d ago1:16:44

1:16:44

In this episode of The Backstep Boys, Ron Kanterman, Tom Aurnhammer, and fire protection expert Jack Murphy explore the critical role fire codes and standards play in firefighter safety and building resilience. From the origins of the International Fire Code to the political challenges of code updates, they unpack why these regulations matter beyon…

1
Chapter 80. Two Hands Two Tools 10:48

4d ago10:48

10:48

Two Hands Two Tools — it’s more than a slogan. A phrase we’ve all lived at least once in our career. And while it’s burned into the culture, believe it or not, there’s an art and a discipline to putting one down. That’s what we get into on this podcast — the moments, the mindset, and the humility behind knowing when to adjust, adapt, and get the jo…

1
Fireground Strategies: Insights on Division Supervision, Training, and Fire Dynamics 1:04:47

5d ago1:04:47

1:04:47

Fireground Strategies: Insights on Division Supervision, Training, and Fire Dynamics In this episode of Fireground Strategies episode, Battalion Chief Patrick Wirkus, of the Elizabeth (NJ) Fire Department, shares practical strategies for improving fireground command through effective division supervision. Drawing on 13 years of frontline experience…

1
Perspectives on Leadership: Leadership, Trust, and the Power of “Why” 1:13:47

6d ago1:13:47

1:13:47

Perspectives on Leadership: Leadership, Trust, and the Power of “Why” In this episode of Perspectives on Leadership, host Stephen Shaw sits down with leadership expert Frank Viscuso to explore the foundations of teamwork within the fire service. Drawing on decades of experience, they discuss how a shared sense of purpose, clear standards, and authe…

1
401. “ Bicycle Repair “ - The Shimek 1:16:45

7d ago1:16:45

1:16:45

In this engaging conversation, the hosts explore various themes including the nature of itching, personal journeys through education, the nostalgia associated with bicycles and childhood memories, and the joy found in sports like snowboarding and skiing. They delve into the experiences of firefighters, emphasizing the importance of camaraderie and …

1
Fire Service Court: Religious Rights, OSHA Rules, and Operational Realities 40:18

7d ago40:18

40:18

Fire Service Court: Religious Rights, OSHA Rules, and Operational Realities This episode of Fire Service Court covers several topics that may have your department talking. The conversation addresses the complex and often contentious issue of facial hair policies in fire departments. The discussion centers around a recent case involving a veteran fi…

1
Frontline Mindset Episode 40. Leadership, Loss, and Legacy – A Conversation with Lt. Mark Bender 35:33

8d ago35:33

35:33

In this powerful episode of Frontline Mindset, Rob sits down with Lieutenant Mark Bendel, recently retired from the Greenville Fire District, to reflect on a career of service, sacrifice, and resilience. Mark opens up about the tragic loss of his friend and fellow firefighter, Vito Sciavillo, and how that grief led to the creation of his children's…

1
Heat, the Silent Killer 53:15

8d ago53:15

53:15

As summer weather begins in the Northern Hemisphere, we revisit this very relevant episode from 2023. Heatwaves aren't just uncomfortable, they are deadly for millions of people around the globe each year. Recognizing this growing threat, governments and safety departments are starting to reconsider their vulnerabilities to heat and are taking acti…

1
400. "Legacy" - Tom Donch 1:25:01

9d ago1:25:01

1:25:01

In this heartfelt conversation, Jeremy Donch interviews his father, Tom Donch, reflecting on their family legacy in the fire service. They discuss the importance of camaraderie, generational values, and the work ethic instilled through family and community involvement. Tom shares stories from his early days in firefighting, the evolution of the ser…

1
The Size Up Episode 116 - All About The Hose - Janelle 1:05:21

10d ago1:05:21

1:05:21

In this episode, Pip and Janelle reflect on personal experiences and emotional connections within the firefighting community, discussing the importance of family, the joy of cruising, and the unique role of medical staff at events. Janelle shares her journey from volunteer firefighter to entrepreneur with Burn Bags USA, emphasizing the significance…

1
Mayday Monday: Rescuing a Heavily Entrapped Firefighter 2:07:42

10d ago2:07:42

2:07:42

Welcome to the June 2025 edition of Mayday Monday. This month we review a fire from St. Mary’s County, Maryland. On June 27, 2023, several departments were dispatched for a fire in a two-story, single-family dwelling. The chief of the first-due fire company was first to arrive on scene and found heavy fire conditions on the first and second floors …

1
Ch. 79 “The Rut” 2:44

11d ago2:44

2:44

In this episode, Mickey talks about hitting a rut in your career. This job’s like the ocean—the tide comes in, the tide goes out. Some days you’re riding high, other days you’re getting pulled under. The key is knowing it’s part of the cycle—and learning how to keep your feet under you when the water shifts.…

1
Fire Service Data and Tech Talk: The Path Forward with Tom Jenkins 53:49

12d ago53:49

53:49

The Path Forward with Tom Jenkins In this episode of Fire Service Data and Tech Talk, host Eddie Buchanan welcomes Tom Jenkins, senior advisor/research manager for UL Fire Safety Research Institute on the NERIS project. They discuss the transformation of fire service data collection and technology through the National Emergency Response Information…

1
399. "Common Sense" - Brian Nardelli 1:25:01

14d ago1:25:01

1:25:01

Jeremy and Chief of Department Brian Nardelli, Brockton, MA Fire Department discuss the importance of pride, leadership, and high standards in the fire service. They emphasize the need for accountability, the value of learning from mistakes through hot washes, and the significance of mentorship. The dialogue highlights the noble calling of firefigh…

1
Main Street Firefighting: Lessons from a Complex Main Street Fire 58:12

14d ago58:12

58:12

Main Street Firefighting: Lessons from a Complex Main Street Fire In this episode of Main Street Firefighting, get an inside look at a challenging downtown fire involving legacy brick buildings with cockloft involvement—fueled by heavy winds and complicated by unique building features like spiral staircases and metal roofing. The department’s rapid…

1
Frontline Mindset Episode 39 – Part 2: Situational Awareness and Conflict Avoidance 19:54

15d ago19:54

19:54

In this solo episode, Rob dives deeper into the mindset and practical tools first responders need to stay safe in an increasingly volatile world. Building on the foundation laid in Part 1, he breaks down situational awareness using the color code system and explores real-world strategies for conflict avoidance. Whether you’re on the fireground, in …

1
Fire and Training: Building High-Performance Teams 19:05

16d ago19:05

19:05

In this episode of Fire and Training, host Doug Cline breaks down the core elements needed to build and sustain high-performance teams. Leadership here isn’t about titles or rank—it’s about clear purpose, strong communication, and unwavering accountability. Cline highlights seven key characteristics, from fostering open dialogue to cultivating trus…

1
The Larry Conley Show: Leadership, Legacy, and Lifelong Service in the Fire Service 1:25:51

17d ago1:25:51

1:25:51

Leadership, Legacy, and Lifelong Service in the Fire Service In this episode of the Larry Conley Show, host Larry Conley welcomes recently retired Arlington County (VA) Deputy Chief Tiffanye Wesley. They discuss the challenges and triumphs of a firefighting career and life beyond the fireground. Reflecting on decades of breaking barriers, mentorshi…

1
Ch 78 Forcible Entry: Floor Above 7:03

18d ago7:03

7:03

This episode dives into the realities of forcing entry when you’re operating on the floor above the fire. We’re talking zero visibility, high heat, and high risk. From hallway conditions to door control and tool selection. We break down the tactics, the mindset, and the urgency required when the floor above isn’t just your assignment, it’s your res…

1
The Mikey G and Mikey D Show: Firefighter Operations in High-Rise and Big-Box Structures 1:22:39

20d ago1:22:39

1:22:39

The Mikey G and Mikey D Show: Firefighter Operations in High-Rise and Big-Box Structures Hosts Mike Dugan and Mike Gagliano talk with a panel of fire service experts about the Firefighter Air Coalition supplement in Fire Engineering, and their respective articles that cover the complexities of firefighting operations concerning high-rise buildings …

1
First Due Battalion Chief: Building Hazards and Response Strategies 1:01:25

21d ago1:01:25

1:01:25

First Due Battalion Chief: Building Hazards and Response Strategies Seasoned firefighters Danny Sheridan and Erik Pettaway discuss the challenges presented by void spaces in residential and commercial buildings. Drawing insights from Frank Brannigan's seminal work, Brannigan’s Building Construction for the Fire Service, the hosts highlight critical…

1
Frontline Mindset Episode 38: Understanding Violence Against First Responders 11:18

21d ago11:18

11:18

In this episode, Rob discusses the recent sentencing of the murderer of Captain Allison Russo, a tragic event that highlights the increasing violence against first responders. He delves into the different types of violence that first responders may encounter, including unintentional, intentional, social, and asocial violence. Rob emphasizes the imp…

1
Women in Fire: Mental Health in the Fire Service 1:00:40

23d ago1:00:40

1:00:40

Women in Fire: Mental Health in the Fire Service In this episode of the Women in Fire radio show, hosted by Lisa Baker, leading voices from the fire service engage in a critical discussion on mental health, coinciding with National Mental Health Awareness Month (May). The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing mental health challenge…

1
Risk Reduction on Tribal Lands 57:54

24d ago57:54

57:54

Tribal nations and native communities across North America are consistently one of the highest-risk population groups for a range of health and safety issues, including fire incidents and casualties. And yet, developing and implementing community risk reduction programs in native communities can be daunting, especially for non-native fire departmen…

1
The Size Up Episode 115 - Be The Different - Allison Brager 1:11:03

24d ago1:11:03

1:11:03

In this engaging conversation, Allison shares her unique journey balancing fitness, military service, and elegance. She discusses the importance of individuality in leadership, the impact of 9/11 on her decision to serve, and the significance of adaptability in various environments. The discussion also delves into the science of sleep, its critical…

1
Ch 77. “The Sauce” 31:02

24d ago31:02

31:02

In this episode, Jermey joins Mickey and cuts through the noise and get real about the fire service and its growing obsession with social media. From fire fame to curated culture, we talk about what’s getting lost—authenticity and humility. This isn’t a rant—it’s a reminder to bring the focus of what we do back to reality.…

1
Talkin’ Tactics: Mastering Engine Company Operations 1:12:23

24d ago1:12:23

1:12:23

Talkin’ Tactics: Mastering Engine Company Operations In this episode of Talkin’ Tactics, hosts David Polikoff, Robert "RJ" James, and Sam Villani discuss the essential components of engine company operations. Drawing from their extensive experiences in the fire service, they discuss the critical importance of promptly putting water on the fire and …

1
Frontline Mindset Episode 37. We Care. For Everyone. EMS Week 2025 4:19

25d ago4:19

4:19

In this special EMS Week episode, Deputy Chief Robert Ridley reflects on this year’s theme—We Care. For Everyone.—and what it truly means in the fire and EMS service. He shares personal stories from his early days in the Youngsville Volunteer Fire Department, the mentors who shaped his journey, and how EMS professionals show compassion in every cal…

1
Tactical Impact: The Essential Role of Air Replenishment Systems 1:14:24

26d ago1:14:24

1:14:24

Tactical Impact: The Essential Role of Air Replenishment Systems In the latest episode of Fire Engineering's Tactical Impact, host Jim Silvernail and Jason Hoevelmann welcome guests Mike Gagliano and Kris Blume to explore the transformative role of firefighter air replenishment systems (FARS) in modern firefighting. As fire departments face increas…

1
Hooks & Hoses: Mastering Fireground Size-Ups 31:52

27d ago31:52

31:52

Hooks & Hoses: Mastering Fireground Size-Ups In this episode of Hooks & Hoses, expert fire service professionals explore the fundamental strategies for conducting effective size-ups during emergency responses. Building on experiences from the recent FDIC International, the discussion focuses on best practices for initial and ongoing fireground comm…

1
BuildingsonFire: Row House Challenges, Part 2 1:12:47

28d ago1:12:47

1:12:47

BuildingsonFire: Row House Challenges, Part 2 In this episode, host Christopher Naum discusses how intricate dynamics of firefighting within row house structures are explored. He covers several lethal incidents from 2014 to 2023, which resulted in 11 line-of-duty firefighter deaths, emphasizing the unique challenges posed by these common yet comple…

1
The Professional Volunteer Fire Department: The Younger Generation of Firefighters 1:16:01

30d ago1:16:01

1:16:01

The Professional Volunteer Fire Department: The Younger Generation of Firefighters Often labeled “the problem” with today’s volunteer fire service, the young people joining the ranks today are different from generations past. But that is true of every generation, and these young men and women are NOT the problem. Yes, there are some problems and se…

1
The Size Up Episode 114 - Moments Of Uncomfortability - Russell Davis 1:08:48

1M ago1:08:48

1:08:48

In this episode, Pip and Russell Davis discuss the importance of camaraderie in the fire service, illustrated through the creation of parody songs. They explore the role of technology in firefighting, the challenges of adapting to change, and the ethos behind West Broad Apparel, a brand that aims to honor the traditions of the fire service. The con…

1
Backstep Boys: Confined Space and Technical Rescue 1:04:41

1M ago1:04:41

1:04:41

Backstep Boys: Confined Space and Technical Rescue In this episode, Ron Kanterman and Tom Aurnhammer discuss technical rescue and confined space operations within the fire service. The conversation covers historical perspectives, revealing the evolution of rescue protocols since the introduction of OSHA regulations in the 1990s, and the dire need f…

1
Ch. 76 The Roof Firefighter 5:57

1M ago5:57

5:57

This episode dives into the role of the roof firefighter—where every move matters. From clear, timely communication to how and where you make your position, nothing is random and nothing is routine. On this job, the smallest details carry the biggest weight.By Jeremy Donch

1
Tailboard Talk: Collaborative Training and Accreditation in the Fire Service 45:46

1M ago45:46

45:46

In this engaging episode of Tailboard Talk, hosts Chris Rasmussen, Craig Nelson, and Jeff Wallin explore the critical role of collaboration among fire and emergency services through joint training initiatives and the accreditation process. They discuss how building relationships across departments can enhance operational effectiveness and safety on…

1
The Command Post: Fireground Efficiency and the Importance of Hose Loads and Training 43:09

1M ago43:09

43:09

In the latest episode of The Command Post, hosts Rick Lasky and John Salka engage in a lively discussion on fireground efficiency, emphasizing the critical role that hose loads play in firefighting operations. They cover the advantages of various hose configurations, including pre-connected lines and static loads. They also highlight how each optio…

1
End of the Road for a Fire Chief with Scott Freitag 29:42

1M ago29:42

29:42

This edition of Code 3 is a little different than most. It’s about a Fire Chief who lost his job after he incurred the wrath of the Union Local’s officials and, ultimately, the IAFF. Scott Freitag was the chief of the Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority, or CAFMA. The agency was created under Scott’s leadership when two fire districts combin…

1
398. Bang On - Gerard Mann 1:39:01

1M ago1:39:01

1:39:01

Gerard Mann and Jeremy discuss the importance of relationships in the fire service, the challenges of transitioning to an officer role, and the need for clear communication and effective training. They explore how humor and personality can enhance leadership, the significance of situational awareness, and the necessity of engaging with team members…

1
Sons of the Flag: Dr. Benjamin Levi 1:01:35

1M ago1:01:35

1:01:35

Sons of the Flag: Dr. Benjamin Levi In this riveting episode of Sons of the Flag Radio, we explore the transformative work being done in burn care with Dr. Benjamin Levi, professor in the Department of Surgery at UT Southwestern Medical Center and division chief of Burn, Trauma, Acute and Critical Care Surgery. The discussion addresses the pressing…

1
The Mysteries of Electrical Injuries 51:07

1M ago51:07

51:07

May is Electrical Safety Month, which is a good time to remember that dozens of people across the world suffer injuries from electrical hazards every single day. Survivors of these incidents list a range of devastating symptoms, from burns and chronic pain to insomnia, muscle spasms, depression, and various other mental health issues. Many of the f…

1
The Size Up Episode 113 - Diamonds In The Rough - Peter Matthews 1:22:25

1M ago1:22:25

1:22:25

In this episode, Pip welcomes Peter Matthews from Firehouse Magazine to discuss the dynamics of podcasting, the importance of diversity in media, and the challenges faced by those in the fire service. They explore the significance of storytelling, and the need for mentorship in passing on knowledge to the next generation. The conversation highlight…

1
Ch. 75 The Basics 9:10

1M ago9:10

9:10

In this episode, we dive into how mastering the fundamentals under pressure becomes the true foundation of success on today’s fireground.By Jeremy Donch

1
Fireground Strategies: Addressing Cancer Risks and Precautions 1:12:04

1M ago1:12:04

1:12:04

In this engaging podcast episode, guest Creston Ludlow discusses the pressing issue of firefighter cancer risks, reflecting on his extensive experience in the fire service. He highlights the alarming increase in cancer cases among firefighters, previously thought to be a retiree issue, and emphasizes the need for awareness, education, and tangible …

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Firefighting Podcasts

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