National Fire Radio Podcast Platform

Getting to know Larry Di Camillo over the years, we often go deep on issues facing the fire service. Most of the time we do it over a beer in person when conferences bring us together or sometimes, a random phone call that lasts for quite a while. So , why not record it and share it with the podcast community. So enjoy this episode where we bounce around and talk shot on the many issues we are all facing in todays' fire service.

From early on, Jack Ayers was just a "Hang Around". A young kid who took to the firehouse to be apart of something bigger. He would be present, maybe even sometimes a nag, but the company knew he would go on to serve the job well. Fast forward, Jack had a full circle moment with one of his mentors from his "Hang Around" days. Today, Jack is an Acting Captain with the San Francisco Fire Department, Engine Co. 22. His passion for the job is evident in everything he does. Training and promoting growth of his people drives him to find ways in which he can better not just himself, but the entire San Francisco area. Jack is apart of bringing the outside world to his world, opening up opportunities for those that might not be able to attend fire conferences and are starving for information and experience. Working with his buddies, their success is fueled by an unconditional belief in giving back to the job. Who doesn't want to enjoy fireifghting with their buddies?? Jack seems ot have it pretty much figured out and he won't have it any other way. He might of started as just a "hang around", but I think the title still fits him today. He "hangs around" those that want more and will stop at nothing to get it!! -- Check out the 2025 Bay Area Fire Conference presented by Fire Nuggets, May 15-18, 2025.

In this episode, Pip and Jack discuss their experiences in the emergency services field, particularly in lifeguarding and firefighting. They touch on the importance of passion and immersion in the field, as well as the unique challenges and responsibilities that come with being a emergency responder. They discuss the generational differences in the emergency services field and the benefits that the younger generation brings, such as their access to information and their passion for the job. They also highlight the importance of teaching the younger generation how to process and analyze the information they consume. Finally, they compare the ocean environment to firefighting, emphasizing the need for respect and understanding of the unpredictable nature of both. The conversation covers various topics related to water safety, fitness, and finding the right exercise routine. The hosts discuss the dangers of swimming in certain beach areas, the importance of lifeguards, and the different hazards present in different beaches. They also touch on the importance of physical fitness in emergency services and finding a workout routine that works for each individual. The conversation emphasizes the need for individuals in emergency services to train like professional athletes and be physically fit to perform their jobs effectively. In this final part of the conversation, Jack and Pip discuss the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including exercise and balanced meals. They also talk about the benefits of attending conferences and networking with like-minded individuals. Because, what you do off the job, MATTERS!!!

TFT 30 - The Roof by Jeremy Donch

8 years in and Donovan Carrasco is hungry. Recently finding his way back to his original department, Donovan feels like it's a full circle moment. Remembering back to when the fire department visited his local high school, he knew that the fire department was for him. His mother knew civic service was for him, he was outgoing, protective and they knew he was "God's Warrior". Diving in head first, Donovan quickly learned that what you get out of the job was what you put into it. His tenacity to learn more, make more connections and share his passion with others set him on a path to do more. Creating Coyote Fire Training, Donovan travels to teach but equally important, to spread the good word about the job. His smile is infectious, his laughter and willingness to engage is top shelf. He makes an impact anywhere he goes and he know the importance in "Making a Bridge". He knows what it's like to seek for more and today, with his presence on the fire ground and social media, he wants people to engage him; those that seek more, want more from the job. Donovan Carrasco is only getting started and he's full throttle to make this job better than he found it. Making a bridge

In this episode, Monica Callahan, a dog trainer and handler, discusses her love for Dalmatians and her journey into the world of therapy dogs and service dogs. She shares her experiences at FDIC and the joy of seeing people's reactions to Orio, her Dalmatian therapy dog. Monica also talks about the different roles of therapy dogs and service dogs, the importance of patience in dog training, and the challenges of finding the right breed for specific tasks. She emphasizes the need for proper training and understanding of dog behavior to ensure successful outcomes. Monica discusses her experiences as a therapy dog handler and the impact that therapy dogs can have on first responders and the community. She shares stories about her Dalmatian, Orio, and their work in hospitals, schools, and fire departments. Monica also talks about the training and certifications required for therapy dogs and the benefits they provide to individuals in need. She emphasizes the importance of self-care and the positive effects that therapy dogs can have on mental health and well-being. Overall, this conversation highlights the incredible work of therapy dogs and the joy they bring to people's lives. Because, What you do off the job, MATTERS!!!

Join Mickey in a conversation with Lieutenant Jason Redman, retired U.S. Navy SEAL and best-selling author, on my latest episode. Jason's journey is one of resilience, triumph, and unwavering commitment to excellence. In this episode, we delve into the crucial topic of maintaining high standards in the fire service.

Colin Ward, a 17 year firefighter in Utah will travel to find the training grounds. Racking up miles on his car, he drives across the state and further teaching the craft and sharing his knowledge and experience. Admittedly, he has a northeast bug in him, the old school traditional values and way of the job, he shares this love with students who are seeking more. His career has included a few different departments, all for different reasons. Chasing fires, life balance and location, each job he worked added to his rounded out approach and experience. Like many other places across the country, departments are competing for the talent pool, looking for lateral transfers rather new recruits. This creates a unique landscape where departments need to figure out how to keep their people and create an environment that firefighters wouldn’t want to leave. Promotional opportunities and departmental growth opens the door to transferred experience which brings a lot to the equation. Colin has some great points about this and so much more in this episode.

In this episode, Pip is joined by his friend Lenwood Brown III, also known as Lenny from Notorious Fire. They discuss their friendship and the impact they have had on each other's lives. They also talk about the importance of the fire service brotherhood and the global problems that firefighters face. Lenwood shares his journey from being a graphic designer to becoming a firefighter and starting his own business, Notorious Fire. They also discuss the challenges of stepping out of their comfort zones and being more active on social media. The conversation explores the balance between being a firefighter and pursuing creative endeavors. Lenny shares how his business is a side hustle that allows him to focus on something other than firefighting and manage his mental health. They discuss the importance of prioritizing self-care and finding time for personal interests. They also touch on the challenges of running a business and the value of building relationships within the fire service community. Because, What you do off the job, MATTERS!!!!

Jeremy and Mickey are back on the porch and hitting topics head on.