Undisclosed Agents Podcast #30 Clark Glass - Humble Fireman
Aug 5, 2024
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Clark Glass, a dedicated fire captain from the Atlanta Fire Department with a career spanning over two decades, shares insights into his journey from small departments to leading heavy rescue operations. He discusses the rigorous Georgia Smoke Diver program and the importance of functional fitness for firefighters. The conversation also touches on close calls and lessons learned during dramatic rescues, emphasizing the need for teamwork and intuition in life-threatening situations. Clark’s passion for firefighting shines through as he reflects on the job's calling and the camaraderie within the firefighter community.
Clark Glass shares his journey from a small fire department to becoming a Captain at Atlanta Fire Department, emphasizing hard work and commitment.
The discussion highlights the impact of the Georgia Smoke Diver program on firefighters' physical abilities and community bonding, showcasing its importance in personal development.
A strong culture of fitness, training, and accountability within the fire service is necessary to combat complacency and enhance overall performance.
Deep dives
The Importance of Being a Monster
Embracing one's inner strength and assertiveness is emphasized throughout the discussion. The notion that individuals should not shy away from showcasing their tenacity and capabilities is reinforced. Instead of conforming to the idea of being harmless, the idea is to channel that ‘monster’ into a controlled, focused energy. This approach can significantly impact performance and personal growth in various areas of life.
Career Journey of Clark Glass
Clark Glass shares his experiences and progression within the fire service from starting in a small department to joining the Atlanta Fire Department. His motivation stemmed from wanting to face more challenges and experience more frequent engagements with firefighting. Clark's journey included various responsibilities, leading up to his current role as Captain of Truck 14, illustrating dedication and hard work over many years. The insights he provides reflect a passion for the job and commitment to continuous improvement in firefighting skills.
Experiences with Fires
The discussion delves into the dynamic experiences associated with responding to firefighting calls. Clark reflects on his early assumptions about firefighting and contrasts them with the reality of working in a busier department where fires are less frequent than expected. The engaging narratives about going to calls showcase the urgency and excitement of the job. Clark's passion shines through as he talks about the importance of firefighters' readiness and teamwork during these critical moments.
The Georgia Smokediver Program
Clark discusses the pivotal role of the Georgia Smokediver program, which he found crucial in his development as a firefighter. His involvement with the program not only enhanced his physical abilities but also connected him with a community of passionate firefighters. The rigorous training and the lessons learned from failure were particularly impactful, shaping his outlook towards challenges. As he notes, the bonds formed through such experiences contribute to a shared sense of purpose within the firefighting community.
Cultivating a Strong Fire Service Culture
The conversation addresses the need for a strong culture in the fire service that prioritizes fitness, training, and dedication. Clark expresses concern over complacency among some firefighters who lack passion for the job, contrasting this with the urgency and responsibility that the role entails. By encouraging accountability and a proactive approach to training, it is suggested that a more robust and effective fire service can emerge. The discussion ultimately emphasizes that a shared commitment to excellence can significantly elevate the overall performance of firefighters.
On this episode of the podcast, we’re joined by Captain Clark Glass of the Atlanta fire department. Clark joined the fire service in 1997 at a small 2 station fire department department. In 2005 Clark had the itch for something more and made the switch to the Atlanta Fire Department. He began his career with Atlanta serving at companies on the Southwest side of the City until when he was assigned to Squad 4 Heavy Rescue. In 2017 he promoted to Lt. and stayed on Squad until November of 2022 when he was promoted to Captain. Clark currently serves on Truck 14.
Humble fireman is the best way to describe Clark. When I asked him for his topics and what he’d like to talk about he simply replied “The things that occupy my thoughts and actions are going to fires, the Georgia Smoke Diver program, and functional fitness.” We talked about all of this and more in this episode.
Due to an ongoing staffing crisis back at the home department my co-hosts Micah and Bryon were unable to join us on this episode so I went to the bullpen. But no worries because I rounded up none other than THE BOYERMAN himself. Chris Boyer joins me as cohost in this episode.