390. Bridging the Gap - Delaware State Fire School by Jeremy Donch

In this episode Pip welcomes Rob Meyer from Ridgeway Leatherworks. They discuss the balance between running a business and serving in the fire department, the importance of sustainability in business practices, and the cultural shifts occurring within the fire service. Rob shares his journey in leather craftsmanship, the significance of storytelling and tradition in the fire service, and how he instills a maker attitude in his family. The conversation emphasizes the importance of customer relations and the philosophy of enjoying life while managing a business. Ridgeway Rob shares his journey in the leather community, highlighting his achievements and the validation he received from being featured in a trade magazine. He discusses the intersection of his leather crafting business with his passion for the fire service, emphasizing the importance of supporting fellow makers and embracing competition. The conversation also touches on the significance of visual storytelling in promoting his work, navigating social media controversies, and the importance of teaching respect and communication skills to the next generation of firefighters. In this conversation, Rob and Pip discuss the importance of training new firefighters, the passion that drives their commitment to the fire service, and the balance between running a business and serving the community. They share personal insights and life lessons, emphasizing the value of mentorship and surrounding oneself with knowledgeable individuals. The discussion culminates in advice for younger generations, focusing on listening, learning, and personal growth. Because, what you do off the job, MATTERS!!!

Top Floor Tactics Chapter 62. Safety Last by Jeremy Donch

In this episode of Frontline Mindset, host Rob interviews Jonah Smith, a seasoned battalion chief with extensive experience in firefighting and emergency response. Jonah shares his journey into the fire service, his leadership philosophy, and the unique challenges of aircraft firefighting at an airport. He highlights the importance of interagency collaboration, effective communication, and fostering a sense of belonging within fire departments. The discussion explores leadership evolution, crisis management, and navigating difficult conversations. Jonah emphasizes realistic training scenarios, the Firefighter Rescue Survey's impact on improving practices, and the role of data-driven decisions in enhancing victim survival rates and operational effectiveness. Jonah also introduces his company, Hornet Fire Training, dedicated to helping local fire departments improve their skills and mindset. He defines aggressive firefighting as disciplined risk management and underscores the importance of understanding context in training. Throughout the conversation, Jonah provides valuable insights and recommends resources for firefighters seeking to enhance their knowledge and capabilities.

In this episode of the Size of Podcast, Genna McMillan shares her journey into the fire service, the significance of mentorship, and the evolving nature of the profession. The conversation highlights the importance of language skills, the legacy of firefighting traditions, and the craft of learning from one another in the field. Genna and Pip discuss the importance of dispatchers in emergency services, the unique challenges of the Dopey Challenge at Disney World, and the mental resilience required for long-distance running. They explore the community aspect of running events, the impact of weather on race experiences, and strategies for pacing during multi-day races. The conversation highlights the camaraderie among runners and the significance of appreciating the journey, both in fitness and career paths. Pip and Genna explore the profound impact of fitness on mental resilience and career performance. They discuss the evolution of their fitness journeys, emphasizing the importance of finding personal motivation and balance in life. The conversation highlights the joy of celebrating achievements, such as earning medals in races, and the significance of community in fitness. They also touch on the importance of kindness and self-care, especially in the context of first responders and the challenges they face. Because, what you do off the job, MATTERS!!!

Chapter 61. Gen-X, View From the Top Floor Podcast by Jeremy Donch

In this conversation, Joe Kelly shares his profound journey from being a respected law enforcement officer to facing addiction and incarceration. He discusses the mental health struggles that first responders often endure, the impact of self-medication, and the stigma surrounding seeking help. Joe recounts his fall from grace, the consequences of his actions, and the pivotal moments that led him to recovery. Through personal transformation and the practice of NLP, he found a renewed sense of purpose in helping others navigate their own struggles with addiction and mental health. In this conversation, Joe Kelley and Rob Frontline Mindset discuss the critical issues surrounding mental health and addiction, particularly among first responders. They explore the transformative power of perspective in healing, the importance of communication and support systems, and the need for tangible resources for those struggling with addiction. The discussion emphasizes breaking the stigma associated with mental health challenges and the vital role of family in crisis situations. They also highlight the significance of education and empowerment in equipping first responders to handle their mental health effectively.

In this episode of The Size Up, Pip engages in a heartfelt conversation with Amanda Marsh from the Eric Marsh Foundation. They discuss the power of social media in sharing personal journeys, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges of navigating negativity. Amanda shares her experiences with loss, the growth of the foundation, and the impact of wildland fires on communities. The conversation emphasizes the need for compassion and understanding in times of crisis, as well as the importance of self-care and personal growth. In this conversation, Amanda Marsh discusses the challenges faced by wildland firefighters, the role of nonprofits like the Eric Marsh Foundation in providing support, and the importance of understanding the wildland urban interface. She emphasizes the need for integrity in nonprofit work and the long-term commitment required to truly help those in need. The discussion also touches on personal reflections about aging and the future, highlighting the importance of community and wellness in the firefighting profession. Because, what you do off the job MATTERS!!!

Chapter 60. Coffee with Jeremy - View From the Top Floor by Jeremy Donch

In this episode of Frontline Mindset, I sit down with Retired Chief Aaron Heller, owner of On Scene Training Associates, to dive deep into the culture of fire department training. Chief Heller shares his decades of experience in building effective training programs that stick and discusses how to foster a mindset of continuous learning and growth in the fire service. From the importance of getting back to the basics to breaking down barriers that hinder training engagement, this conversation is packed with actionable insights for leaders and firefighters alike. If you're looking to elevate your department’s training culture and create a more prepared, resilient team, this episode is a must-listen.