Fire Engineering Podcast Network

When Training and Generational Shifts Collide

What makes training across generations effective? And how does training affect career trajectories and firehouse culture? In this episode of The Backstep Boys, hosts Ron Kanterman and Tom Aurnhammer welcome guest Dave McGlynn. They unpack generational shifts and talk through concrete ideas for recruiting, mentoring, curriculum design, and how to make training stick long term. 

Vertical Fireground

What makes high-rise firefighting unique? Dave McGrail, an author and retired assistant chief from the Denver (CO) Fire Department, joins host Eric Dreiman for this episode of Hooks & Hoses. The two take a closeup look at the challenges of operating at and commanding high-rise buildings. Dave McGrail will teach "The High-Rise Firefight" at FDIC in Indianapolis, Indiana, on Monday, April 20, 2026, from 1:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Firefighter Rescue Survey and the First 5,000

For Command Show's Firefighter Rescue Survey Update, hosts Anthony Kastros and Brian Brush take a look at the Firefighter Rescue Survey release on The First 5,000 Rescues. Join them to learn where to access this information the context of the numbers and how to use it for making data-driven decisions and establishing evidence-based procedures.
 
This podcast is brought to you by Tablet Command. www.tabletcommand.com/get-started-lp

The Critical Role of Trust and Ethics

This episode of the Women in Fire podcast tackles tough subjects. Kim Phillips, district chief, Houston Fire Department, and Paige Colwell, battalion chief, Forsyth County (GA) Fire Department, explore trust and ethics in a profession defined by courage and service, emphasizing how individual missteps can damage entire departments’ reputations and community support. They look at challenges brought on by social media, from viral videos impacting public perception to the complexities of free speech versus professional responsibility. They also address internal culture issues like hazing, harassment, and disciplinary accountability, highlighting the need for consistent standards enforced from the top down.

Making the Move from Captain to Probie

A firefighter going from captain to probie (yes, in that order) is not something we see every day. On this episode of Humpday Hangout, Politics & Tactics host Frank Ricci interviews Danny Stratton about making this very move from the Camden (NJ) Fire Department to the Philadelphia Fire Department. During the conversation, they cover handling adversity and search tactics as well as truck company strategies and radio communication.

Mentorship, Realism, and Marine Firefighting Insights

Anthony Rowett welcomes Ken Keller, the deputy chief of the Mobile (AL) Fire Rescue Department, to Generation Engine. They talk about the critical role of mentorship and innovative training methods that are shaping Mobile Fire Rescue's success. The conversation addresses budget challenges, leveraging technology, and social media to enhance training efficiency. They also spend time on marine firefighting, touching on the unique complexities of fires in a major U.S. port. This episode reveals the importance of interagency relationships, learning from past incidents, and strategic planning tailored to maritime emergencies. Fire service professionals will find valuable perspectives on balancing classroom education, field readiness, and leadership development vital for today's evolving fireground challenges.

What You Need to Know About the Pressurized Water Can

In this episode of The Command Post, hosts Rick Lasky and John Salka take a closeup look at the often-overlooked but highly effective pressurized water can. From its heavyweight presence in major departments like Chicago and FDNY to practical tips on its use and maintenance, they explore why this simple two-and-a-half-gallon device can be a critical asset on the fireground. 

Mayday Monday: Cardiovascular Risks in the Fire Service

For this episode of Mayday Monday, host Tony Carroll welcomes guest Todd Leduc, from LifeScan Wellness. As cardiovascular events remain the leading cause of death among firefighters nationwide, this episode explores the unique physiological challenges the fire service faces, from intense heat and heavy gear to persistent dehydration and high stress. Leduc shares insights from over three decades in the field. He and the host explore key modifiable risk factors like blood pressure, weight management, sleep hygiene, and cholesterol control, alongside the importance of early, enhanced cardiac screenings including ultrasounds and calcium scoring. 
The discussion underscores the critical role of rigorous rehab protocols on scene and ongoing fitness programs off duty. Fire departments and individual firefighters alike must embrace comprehensive physical exams and targeted interventions to prevent sudden cardiac deaths and extend careers. Tune in to learn how proactive health strategies and improved awareness can save lives within this demanding profession.
 
Learn more on FireEngineering.com and from these resources:
https://www.iafc.org/topics-and-tools/resources/resource/healthcare-providers-guide-to-firefighter-physicals
https://hsph.harvard.edu/research/kales-lab/feeding-americas-bravest/

Emergency Response Strategies from a Former FDNY Captain

For this episode of Two Vollies and a Guest, the hosts welcome Christopher Flatley, a retired captain who worked at the FDNY Center for Terrorism and Disaster Preparedness (CTDP), where he spent 15 years as an analyst involved with special event planning and response. Flatley has produced threat assessments for some of the city’s most high-profile events. He is also a Master Exercise Practitioner and has conducted exercises to evaluate the preparedness of the FDNY and interagency partners across a wide array of scenarios. This episode highlights real-world examples, practical strategies, and potential pitfalls in the world of emergency response.

The Difficulty of Having Difficult Conversations

On this episode of The Professional Volunteer Fire Department, Lieutenant John Russ from the Brentwood (TN) Fire and Rescue Department joins host Tom Merrill to discuss an often-avoided topic in the fire service: having difficult conversations. From leadership challenges, to addressing performance issues and holding people accountable, Russ shares practical ideas and real-world experience on how to approach tough discussions with honesty, respect, and professionalism. If you care about building a stronger, more accountable, and more unified department, this episode offers valuable insight into how clear communication can strengthen trust and ultimately make us all better firefighters and teammates.