Relentless Rejects

In this conversation, Preston interviews Paul Shoemaker, a Colorado firefighter and founder of Next Level Training. They discuss Paul's journey in the fire service, his passion for teaching, and the challenges he faced along the way. They also touch on the importance of authentic conversations and the impact of podcasts in connecting like-minded individuals. The conversation highlights the need for self-reflection and the realization that the grass isn't always greener on the other side. Paul Shoemaker shares his journey of personal growth and transformation within the fire service. He discusses the importance of humility, the impact of negative experiences on his mindset, and the realization that he needed to change himself rather than blaming external factors. He also emphasizes the role of his family, particularly his wife, in supporting his career and personal development. Paul Shoemaker discusses the importance of family and surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals. He emphasizes the need to align with people with similar challenges and goals, particularly in the fire service. Paul also shares his passion for teaching and the responsibility that comes with it. He talks about the evolution of Next Level Training and his vision for the future, which includes creating a platform for other firefighters to teach. Paul highlights the significance of mentorship and empowering backseat firefighters to become subject matter experts. He concludes by encouraging listeners to prioritize family and reach out to him for any questions or discussions about lithium-ion batteries or extrication. 00:00 Introduction and Background 09:21 Paul's Journey in the Fire Service 19:18 The Power of Authentic Conversations 28:30 Challenges and Self-Reflection 35:02 The Grass Isn't Always Greener 46:09 The Role of Humility in Personal Growth 56:55 The Importance of Family Support 01:08:17 Family and Like-Minded Individuals 01:13:38 The Passion and Responsibility of Teaching 01:18:04 The Vision for Next Level Training 01:26:50 Empowering Backseat Firefighters 01:34:43 Prioritizing Family and Reaching Out for Discussions

Preston interviews Sean Ryan, a 20-year fireman and lead instructor in this episode. They discuss Sean's journey into the fire service and the importance of brotherhood and family. They also touch on the role of training and the selection of training cadre members. The conversation emphasizes the need for a positive and supportive culture within the fire service and the importance of continuous improvement and learning. The talk explores the challenges of working with a new generation of firefighters and the importance of maintaining discipline and accountability. It delves into the generational gap and the need to adapt teaching methods to reach younger firefighters. The conversation also discusses the process of cutting recruits who are not meeting the standards and the importance of physical fitness in the fire service. Additionally, it touches on the creation and purpose of Animal House Training, a group focused on sharing knowledge and improving the fire service. In this final part of the conversation, Sean and Preston discuss the importance of networking and spreading knowledge in the fire service. They talk about the value of having a strong team and cadre that can provide honest feedback and help firefighters improve. They emphasize the need to embrace failure and learn from it, as well as the importance of training in gear to prepare for the challenges of the fireground. Sean also shares his experience as a cancer survivor and how it has motivated him to push himself and encourage others to prioritize their health and fitness. They conclude by discussing the importance of managing risks and being prepared to provide the highest quality service to the community.

Marcos Orozco, a dedicated fitness professional and no-nonsense fireman, dives into his journey of creating impactful fitness programs through Hardknox Sunday. He shares insights on personal development in high-pressure roles and the camaraderie within fitness communities. The conversation highlights the importance of resilience, proper training techniques, and building a supportive culture in the fire service. Orozco emphasizes being an asset rather than a liability, advocating for accountability and discipline to foster long-term success.

Jess Rodzinka is known for his teaching and lectures on the "Senior Man" position in the fire service. After speaking with him in this episode, I discovered that Jess is on a mission to not only create good firefighters but also GREAT HUMAN BEINGS!

The Firefighter Endurance boys grace the podcast with some rejuvenating passion for firefighting, fitness, and all-around grit. I am going to love seeing where these two end up. Their passion is much-needed and contagious.

Episode 21 features one of my favorite people in the fire service, Scott "Pope" Vadakin. One of the most humble and dedicated people in the fire service. Scott is an FDIC instructor, lead training instructor, and cadre member of the True Grit Training LLC. When Vadakin speaks, people listen. See why he resonates with people so well in this latest episode.

EPISODE #20 baby!! We hit the mark Rejects! This episode brings on a good ol' homegrown Texas boy who has a passion to serve and build others up around him. John is the creator of 48str8 supplements, a product that is healthy, clean, and created for first responders. He has a no-nonsense approach to being fit for the job and treating rookies the right way.

This episode brings in one of the most passionate and charismatic people I know in the fire service. When you listen to Mike talk, you can feel the love he has mixed with his hilarious swagger. Mike and I talk a lot about how mentors have influenced him to be the man he is today, and how his Mom has always been his biggest motivator to be the absolute best. I hope you enjoy listening to this episode as much as I did just hosting it. This is part 1 of our conversation, and we plan to do a live one soon.

On this week's episode of the Relentless Rejects podcast, Justin Lorenzen discussed his recent trip to the Firemanship Fire Conference, his journey and experiences in the fire service, getting your wife involved, and much more. I hope you enjoy it.

Retired chief firefighter Chief Dennis Reilly shares insights on upholding standards, leadership transition from military to fire chief, importance of continuous improvement, technique in training, humility, teamwork in fire service culture, benefits of jiu-jitsu for firefighters, and fire service training and mentorship.