Fire Engineering Podcast Network

In this episode of Tactical Impact, hosts Jim Silvernail and Jason Hoevelmann sit down with Peter Morotto, acting chief of training, Bridgeport (CT) Fire Department, to unpack key firefighting tactics centered on tenable space and focused aggression. Drawing from 30 years of frontline service and extensive instructor experience, Morotto takes a close look at balance between aggressive fireground operations and firefighter safety, emphasizing the critical role of understanding building construction, fire behavior, and the modern fire environment. He shares firsthand insights from his flashover experience and highlights how coordinated fire attack, effective water application, and managing void spaces are essential.

Hooks & Hoses: Rob Grady’s Journey Through Firefighting in Gary, Indiana In this episode of Hooks & Hoses, host Eric Dreiman sits down with Rob Grady, assistant chief of training for the Gary (IN) Fire Department. Grady shares his firefighting journey, which spans over 30 years. He recounts his transition from volunteer to career firefighter, the highs and lows of frontline duty, and memorable moments riding the heavy rescue squad. He reflects on the evolution of fire service technology and training, the physical toll the job takes, and the growing awareness of cancer risks among firefighters. Grady also discusses his role leading the department’s training division, adapting to generational changes, and instilling pride and resilience in new recruits. Along the way, he unpacks the unique history behind Gary’s iconic blue-and-red fire apparatus.
Brought to you by Fire Facilities: https://www.FireFacilities.com   

The Professional Volunteer Fire Department: Insights with Chief John Salka In this episode of The Professional Volunteer Fire Department, Chief John Salka, a seasoned FDNY veteran and lifelong volunteer firefighter, digs into the realities of today’s volunteer fire service. From recruitment challenges and background checks to the crucial role of professionalism without paychecks, Salka shares hard-earned wisdom on the true meaning of service. He reflects on the struggles of turnout numbers during overnight runs and he shares his perspective on the importance of encouraging young firefighters. He also takes a look at innovative ways his department rewards commitment. Salka stresses the power of clear expectations and communication in leadership while acknowledging the unavoidable politics within volunteer firehouses. His stories reveal a fire service filled with passionate, dedicated individuals despite tough times.   Brought to you by Fire Facilities: https://www.FireFacilities.com  

The Training Officer: The Nontraditional Truck Company In this episode of Fire Engineering’s Training Officer podcast, Chief Jim Silvernail of Kirkwood, Missouri, addresses the critical need for engine companies to train beyond their traditional roles. Drawing from his own  years in suburban fire service and his “The Nontraditional Truck Company,” (Fire Engineering Books, coauthored with Arthur Ashley), Silvernail emphasizes how truck company functions like search, ventilation, and forcible entry must be mastered by all crews, especially where dedicated ladders are scarce. He shares practical insights on apparatus positioning, functional standard operating guidelines, and the challenges of limited staffing in suburban districts. Highlighting the importance of a strong training culture and real-world adaptability, Silvernail advocates for preparing firefighters to handle diverse fireground roles with confidence. Brought to you by Fire Facilities: https://www.FireFacilities.com   

Generation Engine: Lessons on Engine and Truck Officer Roles from Veteran Firefighters
 
In this episode of Generation Engine, host Anthony Rowett from Mobile (AL) Fire Rescue, and Mickey Farrell, lieutenant, FDNY, dissect the critical but often overlooked roles of engine and truck officers on the fireground. Drawing on decades of combined experience, they emphasize disciplined preparation, company integrity, and the vital distinction between coaching and micromanaging during emergencies. They explore how real-world training in familiar districts builds firefighter IQ and confidence, the importance of clear communication, especially between engine and truck officers, and the impact of seasoned leadership that remains calm and authoritative under stress. Both share practical drills, such as hose stretching and water flow, that form the backbone of engine company success. The dialogue underscores the definition of true fireground leadership, which shapes not just tactics but the culture that keeps firefighters safe and effective.
 
Brought to you by FireFacilities. FireFacilities.com

Tailboard Talk: Harvest Hazards, Station Upgrades, and Long-Term Planning in Rural Communities In this episode of Tailboard Talk, hosts Chris Rasmussen, Craig Nelson, and Jeff Wallin discuss the realities facing rural and suburban fire departments, especially during the intense harvest season. They cover the unique dangers posed by 24-hour beet and corn harvesting operations, including driver fatigue and heavy equipment accidents, which strain often volunteer-staffed departments lacking sufficient extrication tools. The conversation then shifts to the pressing need for modernized fire stations, highlighting a recent extensive remodel prompted by structural damage. They also discuss the lessons learned around design shortcomings like insufficient dormitory space. The trio emphasizes strategic long-term planning, advocating for early land acquisition and active engagement with city officials to address community growth and evolving operational demands. Throughout the conversation, they stress the importance of collaboration between neighboring departments and deliberate communication with stakeholders to ensure continued fire service readiness.  
Brought to you by FireFacilities. FireFacilities.com

The Command Post: Hiring Challenges and Best Practices with Rick Lasky and John Salka Rick Lasky and John Salka, hosts of The Command Post, dive into the evolving landscape of firefighter recruitment and hiring, sharing decades of firsthand experience. They discuss how societal shifts, comfort-seeking attitudes, and changing norms impact the quality and commitment of candidates entering the fire service. From robust, objective hiring processes, including physical tests, written exams, and background checks, to the dangers of letting problematic personnel resign without accountability, they unpack crucial lessons for fire departments large and small. The conversation emphasizes the importance of mentorship, community outreach, and inclusive hiring that values passion and dedication over background or identity. Highlighting real-world scenarios and successful volunteer recruitment strategies, Lasky and Salka encourage departments to continuously review and improve their hiring procedures to build a stronger, more reliable firefighting force.
 
Brought to you by FireFacilities. FireFacilities.com

Two Vollies and a Guest, a new podcast hosted by Jerry Knapp and Tim Pillsworth, is dedicated to practical fireground knowledge. With over 50 years of combined hands-on experience, they focus on technical and tactical skills firefighters need when every second counts. Expect robust discussions about real-world scenarios, including hazardous materials awareness, natural gas emergencies, nozzle reactions, and building construction considerations. Knapp and Pillsworth pull from decades of frontline experience, FDIC seminars, and fire service expertise to share actionable advice designed to improve safety and decision making on the fireground. 
Brought to you by FireFacilities. FireFacilities.com

Command Show: Inside Leadership and Lifesaving Strategies with Waco Fire Chief Robby Bergerson
In this episode of Command Show, host Anthony Kastros welcomes Robby Bergerson, chief, Waco (TX) Fire Department. With 28 years in Waco and over three decades in the fire service, Chief Bergerson shares his unique journey from recruit to fire chief and the leadership lessons he learned along the way. He talks about a high-stakes apartment fire command, highlighting aggressive and coordinated tactics that resulted in multiple rescues. He also covers Waco’s fire department culture, community engagement, and the importance of servant leadership in today’s fire service. This podcast is brought to you by Tablet Command. https://www.tabletcommand.com/get-started-lp

Mayday Monday: Lessons from the 2019 Atascocita (TX) Fire Department
Mayday Monday returns for October as Chief Mike Mulligan, Brian Morgan, and Battalion Chief David Roark of the Atascocita (TX) Fire Department recount a harrowing commercial fire they faced in 2019. The incident reinforced how familiarity, communication gaps, and residential firefighting tactics can create dangerous complications during commercial fires. Despite the tough conditions and limited visibility, the firefighters navigated an 8,000-square-foot bar, ultimately issuing a Mayday when running low on hose and air. Miscommunicated building designations combined with a delayed Mayday response revealed key lessons in command responsibility and standard operating procedures. The department has since adjusted tactics—heavier initial response, larger hoselines, consistent building orientation, and enhanced rigorous training to prepare crews and officers for high-risk scenarios. This conversation offers a transparent look at handling complex commercial fires and the need for ongoing training, situational awareness, and teamwork in the face of adversity.