Chief Ron Siarnicki: ‘Leave it better than you found it’

In this episode of the podcast, sponsored by L3Harris, Chief Ron Siarnicki, executive director of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), reflects on his 20-plus years with the Foundation and what’s next for him personally after so many years working with firefighter families.

The chief, who recently announced his upcoming retirement – but not his successor (yet) – details the Foundation’s extraordinary evolution since 2001, when 9/11 forever changed its course; shares his 9/11 story – the early NYC setup, the often-disbelieved story of the unlimited credit card, the Foundation’s ongoing support to FDNY; and offers a key reminder to his successor.

Plus, we get into all this: Building resilience in a role focused on fatalities; the Life Safety Initiative with the most impact; and how his “builder” mindset helped him throughout his career.

Don’t miss: The person who had the biggest impact on his career

Episode power quote: “We have to be open and supportive and not be threatened by those who come behind us. You gotta take somebody under your wing somewhere along the way.”

Hot seat sneak peek: The chief’s apparatus collection – yes, collection

Resources we mentioned on the show

• ‘We needed to do more’: The evolution of support in the aftermath of tragedy
• 16 Firefighter Life Safety Initiatives
• First Responder Center for Excellence
• Memorial Weekend
• Light the Night for Fallen Firefighters

Connect with us

Email bettereveryshift@firerescue1.com to share your feedback!

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