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…

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…

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.…

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…

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…

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

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…

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…

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

In this episode of Frontline Mindset, Rob sits down with Kim Kelly-Hahn—911 dispatcher, paramedic, and mental health advocate—to talk about the unique challenges of emergency dispatching, the power of physical activity and travel for mental wellness, and the critical need for support and recognition in the first responder world. Kim shares her pers…

397. Chance Craven and Drew Schaumann by Jeremy DonchBy Jeremy Donch

In this conversation, Jeremy Donch and Jacque Creamer, Jr. discuss the Lancaster County Firemen's Association, its history, and the importance of trade shows in the fire service. They explore the challenges of recruitment and community engagement, the need for collaboration between career and volunteer firefighters, and the role of education and tr…

Coming to you from Albuquerque, New Mexico — this episode dives into window bars and the importance of understanding when and why to remove them. We break down how timing, position, and flow state all play a role in making the right move at the right moment.By Jeremy Donch

Catching up with Chief David Rhodes after a busy FDIC week. We pull back the curtain on his week in Indy, dive into a great discussion about his powerful message on opening day and go after some of the problems that plague our fire service today. "Mission, Service, Purpose" is the perfect theme for Chief Rhodes opening and it certain fits this podc…

In this episode, Rob from Frontline Mindset interviews firefighter Ben Herbst, who shares his journey from the Army National Guard to the fire service. Ben discusses how sniper training shaped his mindset, the parallels between military and firefighting, and the importance of leadership, empathy, and purpose. He also reflects on balancing his roles…

In this episode, Jeremy speaks with Chris Koretski about the importance of community service, particularly in the fire service and veteran support. They discuss the Honor Flight program, which honors veterans by taking them to see their memorials, and the significance of maintaining connections with retired firefighters through honor guard programs…

In this episode of The Size Up , Pip and Dennis discuss the evolution of firefighting, the importance of humor and kindness in the fire service, and the value of personal growth through reflection on past experiences. Dennis and Pip explore the importance of seeking help for mental health, the generational differences in attitudes towards therapy, …

This chapter breaks down The Salute, The Handshake, and The Knock—three timeless gestures that once meant everything in the firehouse.The salute stood for respect. The handshake meant your word held weight. And the knock was how you separated the kitchen from the office. Today, we’re watching those foundations slip. Let’s talk about why they matter…

Rob highlights a must-read article by Peter Matthews, Editor-in-Chief of Firehouse Magazine, titled "Getting Involved Locally with Politics for National Impact." It’s a wake-up call to firefighters everywhere—career and volunteer—about the critical need to engage in politics to secure funding, gear, staffing, and safety.With programs like AFG and S…

In this special episode of The Size Up, host Pip engages in a heartfelt conversation with his father, Russ, exploring their family dynamics, the evolution of firefighting, and the importance of mentorship and leadership. Through storytelling, they reflect on personal growth, career paths, and memorable experiences in the fire department, highlighti…

This week, my friend Mike Smith Engine Co. 48 FDNY is back as we dive into all things Engine — operations, riding positions, communication, tradition, and why, no matter what, this is still the greatest job on earth.By Jeremy Donch

393. The Cool Fireman Podcast. by Jeremy DonchBy Jeremy Donch

In this episode of Frontline Mindset, Rob sits down with James Denney, a seasonedfirefighter from Del Rio, Texas, to explore 17 years of wisdom earned on the fireground. From navigating lean staffing and optimizing training in a resource-strapped environment to evolving his techniques in pump ops, hose deployment, and forcible entry, Denney shares …

In this episode, Rob from Frontline Mindset sits down with Joshua Armstrong, an Air Force veteran turned firefighter and medic. Joshua shares his powerful journey from financial hardship to finding purpose in the fire service. He opens up about the challenges of military life, the transition to municipal firefighting, and the critical role of mento…

A View From the Top Floor Podcast with Mickey Farrell. Episode 2 focuses on the 10 things I wish I could tell myself as a probie as Mickey reflects back on his early days of his career. Sound advice for the early years of your career. --Check out Top Floor Tactics on IG and his new podcast, A View From the Top Floor, hosted by National Fire Radio.…

In this episode, Pip engages in an authentic conversation with Josh Grandinetti, exploring themes of personal growth, the impact of the show Ted Lasso, and the importance of mindfulness in the fire service. Josh shares his journey into firefighting, the challenges he faced with a knee injury, and how it led him to create Foundation Fortified, a min…

Can’t get to FDIC? Who cares. Keep your training local and tell the internet to go fuck itself. This week’s about real connections, honest work, and bringing back the bar room napkin.By Jeremy Donch

Jeremy sits down with Ray McCormack to discuss the innovative Hen Nozzle products, particularly focusing on the Blade Stream and the newly designed Force Nozzle. Ray's own career lead him to finding different ways to manipulate the stream of a regular smooth bore nozzle. This lead to an idea he had many years ago, pinching the circular smooth bore …

In this episode, Rob explores the importance of stepping away from work and truly unplugging—especially for those in high-stress professions like firefighting. Sharing personal insights from a recent vacation with his wife, he reflects on the mental reset, renewed perspective, and stress relief that come from taking a break. Rob emphasizes the valu…

In this episode, Pip discusses the importance of what we do off the job with guest Dave Dunn Jr., a firefighter and cosplayer. They explore Dave's journey in emergency services, the adrenaline rush of firefighting, and how cosplay serves as an escape from reality. The conversation highlights the community and connections formed through shared inter…

Another Street Talk, this time from Penn 6 in Midtown Manhattan. This one dives into operating in exposure buildings, when and when not to call a Mayday, and the importance of sizing up on the fly. I also discuss what happens when the dominoes start falling the wrong way and how the tempo of a fire can drastically shift from building to building.Fo…

On this episode of Frontline Mindset, Rob interviews Captain Zach Polvino from theSnyder Fire Department. They dive into leadership, training, and core engine companycompetencies. Zach discusses the challenges of recruitment and retention in both fireand EMS, the importance of making EMS an essential service in New York, and theneed for mental heal…

In this episode, Pip and Justin DeMoss explore the themes of joy, personalgrowth, and the unique experiences of wildland firefighting. They discuss theimportance of sunlight and nature in maintaining mental health, the journey offinding purpose in one's career, and the challenges faced in extremeconditions. Justin shares his transition from sports …

Chapter 68. Street Talk, View From the Top Floor Podcast by Jeremy DonchBy Jeremy Donch

On this episode of Frontline Mindset, Rob interviews Captain Zach Polvino from theSnyder Fire Department. They dive into leadership, training, and core engine companycompetencies. Zach discusses the challenges of recruitment and retention in both fireand EMS, the importance of making EMS an essential service in New York, and theneed for mental heal…

In this episode, Pip shares his exhilarating experience at the World'sStrongest Firefighter competition, highlighting the camaraderie and diversebody types within the firefighting community. He emphasizes the importanceof networking and learning from others in the field, especially at conferences.Chris Naff shares his journey in the firefighting pr…

Chapter 67. St Patricks Day - View From the Top Floor Podcast by Jeremy DonchBy Jeremy Donch

In this conversation, Jeremy discusses the importance of bridging generational gaps within the fire service. He emphasizes the need for respect, honor, and integrity in firehouses, drawing from his own experiences growing up in a firehouse environment. He advocates for a culture that values the contributions of past generations while preparing futu…

In this episode of The Size Up, Pip engages in a heartfelt conversation withFrank Boniello, the 2025 World's Strongest Firefighter. They discuss theimportance of family in the fire service, the unique bond among firefighters,and the challenges of balancing work and personal life. Frank shares hisjourney from the Air Force to becoming a firefighter …

Rob and Randy discuss Rescue One Disaster Response Truck, a project by Fire Department Coffee that supports communities after natural disasters. They highlight the importance of restoring dignity to disaster victims, the logistics and challenges of deploying the truck, and the human connections made during relief efforts. Randy shares stories from …

Chapter 66 - Simplicity = Sophistication by Jeremy DonchBy Jeremy Donch

Rob sits down with Captain Sean Eagan of the Buffalo Fire Department to discussleadership, mentorship, and the evolving challenges in the fire service. From leading atruck company with a younger workforce to the impact of technology on firefighting,Sean shares valuable insights on accountability, training, and professional growth. Theydive into car…

391. Tommy Boy by Jeremy DonchBy Jeremy Donch

In this episode of 'The Size Up, Pip engages with fire survivors Shawn Simonsand Alvaro Llanos, who transformed their traumatic experience from the SetonHall fire into a mission of fire safety education. They discuss the evolution oftheir program over 13 years, the impact of social media in reaching youngadults, and the importance of fire safety aw…

Top Floor Tactics Chapter 65. Street Talk Overhaul by Jeremy DonchBy Jeremy Donch

In this episode of Frontline Mindset, host Rob interviews Annie Tonelli, a 911 dispatcherfrom Camden County, about her experiences in emergency services. Annie shares herjourney from her background in firefighting and EMT work to becoming a dispatcher,offering unique insights into the critical role dispatchers play in the emergency responsesystem.T…

Top Floor Tactics Chapter 64. Houston Time by Jeremy DonchBy Jeremy Donch

In this episode of The Size Up, Pip engages with Harry Walker, the 2023Arnold's World's Strongest Firefighter champion. They discuss Harry's journeyfrom military service to wildland firefighting, the dynamics of strongmancompetitions, and the importance of community and mental health in thefirefighting profession. The conversation also touches on p…

In this episode of Frontline Mindset, host Rob interviews Joe Gangler, founder of Side Charlie Tools, to discuss his journey in the fire service and the creation of innovative forcible entry tools. Joe shares insights into the design, functionality, and real-world success of tools like the aluminum wedge and Heritage Bar, emphasizing their role in …

In this episode of the Size Up podcast, Pip interviews Val Perez, a firefighter and manager of the Firefighters baseball team in the Savannah Bananas league. They discuss Val's journey from a young athlete competing with her brothers to her decision to become a firefighter, driven by a desire to serve her community. Val shares her experiences in bo…