National Fire Radio Podcast Platform

Mike Greco, a lifelong student of the fire service, is a career firefighter with the Hackensack, NJ Fire Department and a volunteer Fire Chief with the Hasbrouck Heights Fire Department. Growing up going to fires with his father set the tone for his unapologetic love of the job. He is fiercely loyal to his people and the job, and it comes through his way in which he talks about the job. He is a true believer in letting his people work. Creating an environment that lets firemen be firemen will set the tempo on the fireground. This fun episode is a must listen!!

Here's a brief update on the podcast and some valuable insight on effectively navigating the abundance of training networks in today's fire service.

In the latest episode of Frontline Mindset, we dive into the remarkable journey of Andrew Hamilton, whose transformation from a drug dealer to a rising comedian captures the essence of resilience and redemption. If you're a fan of TikTok, Reels, or YouTube, you might have already encountered Andrew's infectious humor alongside the YeahMadTV crew in Australia, where he's been winning hearts with his relatable dad jokes and comedic skits. But Andrew's path to comedy was anything but straightforward. With candid honesty, he shares the tumultuous chapters of his life, including his arrest and the heart-wrenching loss of his dogs, which could have derailed anyone's spirit. Instead, these experiences forged his unbreakable mindset, propelling him to reemerge stronger and funnier than ever. In this episode, Andrew delves into the mindset shift that allowed him to turn his life around, embracing stand-up comedy as his avenue for redemption. His story is a testament to the power of humor in overcoming life's darkest moments and a reminder that it's possible to rewrite our narratives, no matter the past. Andrew's journey may differ from the firefighting frontlines, but his resilience in facing life's fiercest battles aligns with the spirit of every listener seeking inspiration to overcome their own challenges. Tune in to witness a conversation filled with laughter, lessons, and the kind of life-changing mindset that defines true comeback stories.

Scott Hewlett of the Multiple Calls Podcast and 25 year firefighter from southern Ontario, Canada, joins Jeremy on the podcast today. They explore the popularity of leadership discussions in the fire service and the importance of finding a balance between grit and vulnerability. They also emphasize the significance of accountability and the impact of mentorship in shaping one's career. The conversation highlights the value of empathy, compassion, and wisdom in the fire service. They discuss the role of podcasts in sharing experiences and knowledge, and the therapeutic aspect of learning and conversation. Scott discuss the importance of learning from the past and straddling two generations in the fire service. They emphasize the need to bridge the gap between different generations and the responsibility of leadership in carrying forward traditions and mentalities. They also highlight the significance of mentorship and being an example, while acknowledging the imperfections that come with it.

Deputy Chief Mike Caddell from the Newton, MA Fire Department discusses his experience as a contestant on Who Wants to Be a Millionaire and his passion for tech rescue. He shares the process of becoming a contestant and the pressure of being under the lights. Mike also talks about his journey in the fire service, including the creation of a rescue company in Newton. He emphasizes the importance of continuous training and the satisfaction of putting skills to the test in real-life situations. This part of the conversation focuses on the importance of discipline and training in the fire service. It explores how firefighters find their way to a fire department and the value of continuous learning and education. The conversation also delves into the challenges and rewards of leadership roles and the need for a well-rounded education. It emphasizes the significance of leading by example, setting expectations, and holding people accountable. The chapters also discuss the power of sharing knowledge, the impact of dynamic training, and the passion for training in the New England area. They discuss the importance of passion in the fire service and how it drives their work.

In this episode,Pip welcomes Kenny Mitchell from Operation Yellow Tape. He shares the story of how Operation Yellow Tape was born and the impact of mental health struggles on his life. Kenny emphasizes the need for balance and perspective outside the yellow tape and the importance of bringing first responders and non-first responders together. He also addresses the stigma of mental health in the fire service and provides tips for taking care of oneself outside the job. He emphasizes the need to communicate with family and friends about the challenges and stresses of the job. He encourages firefighters to prioritize their mental health and well-being, and to recognize the significance of their loved ones' lives and jobs. Mitchell concludes by emphasizing the importance of what firefighters do off the job and the impact it has on their overall success and happiness. Because what you do off the job, MATTERS!!!!

Deputy Chief Bill Perritt of the Hartsdale, NY Fire Department, shares his journey in the fire service, from growing up in the Bronx to joining the volunteer fire department in Pleasantville, NY. Chief Perritt discusses the value of the volunteer fire service and the passion for firefighting that drives many individuals to pursue a career in the field. He also highlights the need for continuous training and the importance of focusing on basic firefighting skills. Chief Perritt emphasizes the importance of fostering a positive and inclusive culture within the fire department and the benefits of collaboration and automatic aid among departments. He discusses the importance of leadership and resources in firefighting, emphasizing the need for strong leadership that recognizes the importance of providing adequate resources. He also highlights the value of joint training and automatic aid in improving coordination and effectiveness among different departments. Chief Perritt emphasizes the importance of training for operational reality and conducting realistic training approaches that reflect the actual staffing and conditions firefighters face. He also discusses the role of experience in leadership and decision-making, emphasizing the need for leaders to allocate resources effectively and make timely decisions. He concludes by discussing the impact of training on firefighters and the satisfaction of passing on knowledge to the next generation.

Joe Speranza joins Jeremy on the podcast and discusses the volunteer fire service. Joe, a long time friend and Chief of the Hawthorne, NJ Fire Department, dives in on what's working for his department and issues volunteers are facing daily. Joe was a past guest long ago, Episode 8, so it was only fitting to bring him back 300 episodes later to catch up and see how he's doing.

Today on Frontline Mindset, Rob sits down with Dr. Peter Salerno, author of "Fit for Off Duty," to discuss a crucial topic - finding help beyond the station. When it comes to seeking support for our mental health, it's essential to ensure that the mental health professional we turn to is the right fit for us. Dr. Salerno expertly guides us through this vital process in today's episode of Frontline Mindset. Tune in as they delve into the strategies and mindset required for making informed decisions about your mental well-being. Discover how to navigate the process of finding the right mental health professional and taking a proactive approach to self-care. Join the conversation on Frontline Mindset as they explore the path to mental well-being for those who serve on the frontlines.

In this conversation, David Polikoff, a retired Montgomery County, MD Battalion Chief, discusses his career in the fire service and the importance of conversation and mentorship. He emphasizes the value of aggressive firefighting and the need for continuous learning and adaptation in the ever-evolving fire service. David highlights the advancements in equipment and training, as well as the variations in fire service delivery across different regions. He also emphasizes the importance of sharing knowledge and experiences to help the next generation of firefighters. Overall, David's journey showcases the combination of old school values with modern delivery in the fire service. In this conversation, David is currently the Assistant Chief of Volunteer Services for Frederick County, Maryland. They discuss bridging the generational gap in the fire service and the importance of mutual respect and understanding between different generations. David shares his experiences and insights on maintaining identity in a combination system and the collaboration between career and volunteer firefighters. He emphasizes the need for experienced leaders and the role of music in disconnecting from the job and finding personal fulfillment.