Fire Engineering Podcast Network

On this episode of Women in Fire, host Lisa Baker speaks with a panel to discuss the upcoming 2026 Women in Fire International Conference, in Austin, Texas. The conference will offer specialized training and networking for fire service professionals. The members of the panel emphasize that the environment allows attendees to drop their guards, build hands-on skills without fear of judgment, and establish mentorships with peers from around the United States. The conference also welcomes male firefighters and officers seeking to support their teams and improve department mechanics.
 
The Women in Fire Panel
Retired Lieutenant Heidi Simon from South Metro, Colorado
Retired Lieutenant WIllie Saulsberry from Gainesville, Florida
Firefighter/Paramedic Brooke Sims from Aurora, Colorado
Women in Fire Trustee Megan Saylors

On this episode of The Humpday Hangout, Frank Ricci sits down with Scott Martus to discuss his Fire Engineering article, "Two Systems, One Mission: How to Align ICS and HICS in a Crisis." Martus explores the critical relationship between the fire service and healthcare systems, highlighting how sponsor hospitals, medical direction, and hospital emergency management teams can serve as force multipliers during emergencies. He uses real examples to show what works and what doesn't. Ricci and Martus emphasize practical fixes: Empower medical dispatch triage, use nurse navigation and third-party call centers to reduce low-acuity engine responses, and align prehospital strategy with capacity to improve outcomes.
 
Link to Scott Martus’ article, Two Systems, One Mission: How to Align ICS and HICS in a Crisis: https://www.fireengineering.com/firefighting/fire-ems/two-systems-one-mission-how-to-align-ics-and-hics-in-a-crisis/

From modern construction and synthetic fuels to lithium-ion battery hazards, today’s fireground looks different. In this episode, Keith Stakes and Meghan Maloney of UL Research Institutes' Fire Safety Research Institute discuss what recent research is revealing about search, suppression, ventilation, and exposure reduction. Learn how the Fire Safety Research Institute works with the fire service to turn research findings into practical training to support more informed fireground decision-making.
Article link: https://www.fireengineering.com/fire-safety/enhancing-firefighter-health-and-safety-in-the-evolving-built-environment/ 
For more information about the Fire Safety Research Institute: https://s.ul.org/4g1syoH

Firehouse kitchens have always served as a hub where firefighters solve problems, share stories, and pass down institutional knowledge. On this episode of The Backstep Boys, hosts Ron Kanterman and Tom Aurnhammer examine the subtle forces shaping modern firehouse culture. They focus on the critical role of informal leaders: These include the experienced crew members and senior firefighters who maintain standards, mentor incoming probationary members, and preserve operational traditions without holding official rank.

Hosts Jason Hoevelmann and Jim Silvernail welcome Sean Duffy for a focused discussion on data-driven fireground decision making on this episode of Tactical Impact. They break down critical timelines and the reality of survivability in heavily involved structures. The panel also discusses why search should be a default action regardless of whether victims have been reported. 

In this episode of Point of Origin, hosts Billy Hux and Bobby Drake sit down with veteran fire investigator Nick Palumbo Jr. Palumbo looks back on his days as a 14-year-old explorer, his first ride-along investigating fires with his father, and how he got his professional start. He recounts memorable cases, discusses courtroom risks, and shares leadership lessons as well as his father's advice: Build your own reputation without disrespecting those who taught you. 

On this episode of The Command Post, hosts Rick Lasky and John Salka speak from their own experiences writing for Fire Engineering, hosting a podcast, and teaching at FDIC. They give advice on picking a topic, building credibility, and tips for submitting class proposals. The hosts warn against using AI and share thoughts on classroom etiquette and the power of showing up to build relationships.

On this episode of Two Vollies and a Guest, Micah Hydeman joins hosts Jerry Knapp and Tim Pillsworth to talk about career changes. Hydeman details his career move from captain to tailboard firefighter and shares how to evaluate a change in departments. He covers family and insurance risks, financial changes, union agreements, and staffing realities. The panel also details the mental and cultural shifts involved in the transition from an officer role back to a crew position. 

Chief Doug Myers from the Berrien Springs-Oronoko (MI) Fire Department joins host Tom Merrill for a conversation about emergency scene accountability for this episode of The Professional Volunteer Fire Department. They touch on practical approaches to establishing and maintaining accountability from the moment the firefighters arrive until the incident is under control. They also look at the system, procedures, and leadership responsibilities that help ensure every firefighter goes home safely.

Chief Aaron Hummel, of the Boise (ID) Fire Department, joins host Anthony Kastros on this episode of Command Show to break down frontline command. They get into practical size‑up, incident command pitfalls, accountability, standard operating guidelines, and the “functional five” hazards. They discuss regional growth, joint academies, and promotional testing, as well as auto-aid mechanics and building a battalion-chief academy. 
 
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