What does a healthy firefighter look like? So often we focus on physical appearance to define health, but health is a multifaceted, complex interaction among several factors. During this live podcast event, Better Every Shift hosts Firefighter Aaron Zamzow and FireRescue1 Editor-in-Chief Janelle Foskett speak with Chief Marc Bashoor about the “Healthy 10,” a list of 10 ways firefighters can elevate their overall health and wellness. The group digs into how to define a healthy firefighter, underscoring that looking healthy doesn’t automatically equate to being healthy.

The man, the myth, the legend, FDNY Battalion Chief (ret.) John Salka joins the Better Every Shift podcast to share lessons that apply to all firefighters, on or off the fireground.

Chief Salka and Zam formed an unlikely friendship years ago, bonding over health and wellness, as the chief made it a goal to get back in shape later in his career. Beyond sharing his motivations related to his renewed health focus, the chief reflects on why it’s so important to prioritize personal time. It’s great to be into the job – to really love the job – he says, but no one is ever going to wish they spent more time at work at the expense of family and friends.

The author of “The Fire Scene” also recalls some of the biggest calls of his career and shares some great perspective on what it’s like working with the newest generation of members joining the ranks.  

What else

• Don’t miss: The story of the urinal quote
• Episode power quote: “The most important decision, the most important action that a fire chief takes is to hire the right people.”
• Hot seat sneak peek: The tactical operation he enjoyed the most early in his career

Dr. David Griffin, assistant chief of administration in Charleston, S.C., joins Better Every Shift this week, sharing powerful lessons learned from the tragic Sofa Super Store fire where nine of his fellow firefighters died; his journey to find himself and his mission after the tragedy; how he resurfaced his love of learning; and how he manages to keep all the plates spinning amid his work schedule, speaking engagements and business ventures.  

Plus, we get into all this: Griffin’s initial resistance to change following the fire; acknowledging why so many members retired after the incident; the various coping mechanisms he tried to navigate the trauma, including MMA; and his subsequent realization about not knowing what he didn’t know – and diving head-first into absorbing training and operations resources.

• Don’t miss: The power of combining years of operational experience with a “super nerd” appetite for learning
• Episode power quote: “My day doesn’t manage me. I manage my day.”
• Hot seat sneak peek: His favorite tattoo – and its deeply personal meaning – plus his first time smoking a steak

Resources we mentioned on the show

• 15 years later: ‘We are home-growing our leaders’ in Charleston
• "In Honor of The Charleston 9: A Study of Change Following Tragedy"
• “The 5 Dysfunctions of a Team”

Email bettereveryshift@firerescue1.com to share your feedback!

Buckle up for an electric episode, driving hard into everything firefighters need to know about electric vehicle fires. Puns notwithstanding, Zam and Janelle are thrilled to speak with Patrick Durham, a captain and training officer with the Troy (Michigan) Fire Department who also works as a mechanical engineer. Durham started StacheD Training to educate firefighters on a variety of technical topics, including the unique aspects of responding to EV incidents, so he’s the right person to answer all of Zam’s scenario-based questions about how to handle various EV fire situations.

Plus, we get into all this: Durham’s takes on the various products for extinguishing EV fires; tips for determining whether it’s an EV battery fire or a standard vehicle fire; and how long it takes for an EV fire to burn itself out.

Don’t miss: The smart SCBA analogy to lithium-ion battery fires

Hot seat sneak peek: Durham’s dream car … but is it an EV?

Bonus reading: Electric vehicle fires: Where the waiting game wins

Email bettereveryshift@firerescue1.com to share your feedback!

Enjoying the show? Please take a moment to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts. 

Get ready for a healthy dose of smack talk from some unexpectedly competitive fire service leaders. Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, U.S. fire administrator; Chief Eriks Gabliks, superintendent of the National Fire Academy; Dr. Sara Jahnke, director of the Center for Fire, Rescue & EMS Health Research; and Chief Bryan Frieders, president/CEO of the Firefighter Cancer Support Network are going head to head in the Better Every Shift Challenge, a wellness competition that hopefully inspires you – yes, YOU – to join the challenge to better your health.

The leaders share the origins of the challenge, which did involve some of those tough conversations among friends. Just remember that the participants all have a profound love and respect for each other: “Yeah, we’ll banter just like we do at the firehouse, but it’s really out of concern and love for everybody,” Frieders notes.

Join the Challenge at Fire Rescue Fitness. Your contribution goes to great fire service organizations: Firefighter Cancer Support Network, Science Alliance/Science to the Station, and the First Responder Center for Excellence.

Connect with us!

Email bettereveryshift@firerescue1.com to share your feedback!

Enjoying the show? Please take a moment to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts. 

The first firefighter-influencer of the modern era shares how his early speaking nerves transformed into a love of making comedy videos

Patton reveals his favorite Fire Department Chronicles video to film, the call that made him laugh the hardest (and later served as great material for a video), plus the video that put him on the map. Plus, we get into all this: His best advice for firefighters getting into the social media space; how he chooses his passion projects; and "micro-dosing happiness."

• Don’t miss: The hilarious story of his first attempt to teach a CPR class
• Episode power quote: “One of the biggest lessons I had to learn in life is everything cannot be zero or 100. You have to find moderation, even if it’s 30 seconds.”
• Hot seat sneak peek: A recent moment of frustration – and why $250 isn’t that much in context

Resources we mentioned on the show

• Fire Department Chronicles
• Fire Department Coffee
• DetecTogether
• Banyan Treatment Centers
• The Leary Firefighters Foundation

Connect with us!

Email bettereveryshift@firerescue1.com to share your feedback!

Enjoying the show? Please take a moment to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts. 

Get ready to kick back on the metaphorical couch because on this episode of the Better Every Shift podcast, Zam and Janelle talk to Dr. Rachelle Zemlok – a first responder-focused psychologist, who also happens to be married to a fire captain – about all things firefighter relationships: stress-related competition between partners; assuring firefighters that they are in control of their therapy session; the one word that defines the trickiness of firefighter relationships; and a lot of simple ways to, quite simply, not blow up your marriage.

Plus, we get into all this: Gottman’s research into the ‘four horsemen’ of the relationship apocalypse; the most important post-shift question before you get home; why therapy isn’t a competition and therapists aren’t referees; and how much to talk to your spouse about your shift.

What else …

• Don’t miss: The top issue she helps first responder couples navigate
• Episode power quote: “Firefighters can see [therapy] as a contained space where they can go and just dump it all and then feel lighter. You’re allowed to come here and just dump it all and leave.”
• Hot seat sneak peek: The dumbest fight she had with her fire captain-husband recently

Got an idea for the show? Email bettereveryshift@firerescue1.com. 

On this episode of the Better Every Shift podcast, Zam talks to Fire Chief Jason Caughey from the Laramie County (Wyoming) Fire Authority about fire service relationships, communication and making connections with the community, plus all this: Why years 2-8 are tough on firefighters; the problem with our marketing efforts; the fire service similarities to credit unions; and questions about whether the fire service is “softening.”

What else …

• Hot seat sneak peek: His dream (non-fire service) career
• Don’t miss: Vision Day at the FD
• Episode power-quote: “This is absolutely the best career, but it’s not the best career because of the fires that I see. It’s the best career because of these other tangible items that we don’t do a great job of explaining – the camaraderie, the community, the service.”

Got an idea for the show? Email bettereveryshift@firerescue1.com. 

This episode of the Better Every Shift podcast is extra super because Zam and Janelle are talking all things Super Bowl with Glendale (Arizona) Captain Ashley Losch, digging into the fire and EMS preparations, training and coordination for this year’s big game. Captain Losch details the many moving parts of “Super Season,” what they’ve learned from the past two Super Bowls the city has hosted, plus how the Damar Hamlin incident prompted additional questions. Plus, we get into all this:

• The big messaging change for this year
• Maintaining citywide staffing during the big game
• The tabletop exercise that had 150 agencies represented

What else …

• Hot seat sneak peek: Best Super Bowl halftime shows of all time
• Don’t miss: How the super-wealthy deal with Super Bowl travel
• Episode power quote: “It’s about connection, it’s about coming together for a common goal, making sure that people are safe, making sure that everyone has a good time, everyone goes home with good memories, and the sheer amount of people that are coming together to make sure that happens is really incredible.”

Email bettereveryshift@firerescue1.com to share your feedback!

On this episode of the Better Every Shift podcast, Zam and Janelle dig into the big stories, hot takes and moments that moved us from the month:

• Damar Hamlin’s medical emergency live on Monday Night Football – and the many “takes” that followed;
• Controversy over an Alabama firefighter whose tattoo and hair prompted complaints that ultimately led to her dismissal; and
• The fallen FDNY firefighter whose organ donation saved multiple lives, including two retired FDNY members.

We also recognize Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month and offer simple tips for talking to your doctor about the unique health risks firefighters face on the job.

Resources we mentioned on the show …

• Fallen FDNY firefighter donates organs to 5, including 2 retired firefighters
• firefighter fired for head tattoo, hairstyle violations
• Firefighter grooming standards: An evolving policy issue
• Fire, EMS agencies urge CPR training in wake of NFL player's mid-game medical emergency
• Firefighter Cancer Support Network
• 40PlusFire
• Provider’s Guide to Firefighter Medical Evaluations

Connect with us!

Email bettereveryshift@firerescue1.com to share your feedback!

Enjoying the show? Please take a moment to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts. 

This episode of the Better Every Shift podcast is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit Lexipol.com.

On this episode of the Better Every Shift podcast, Zam and Janelle talk to a dear friend, Loveland (Colorado) Fire Rescue Authority Fire Chief Tim Sendelbach, about what it was like to serve as the editor-in-chief of two major fire service publications, then transition back into fire department life. The chief reflects on his family's fire service connection, his vision for Loveland, and how his career has come full circle.

Plus, we get into all this:

• A “spicy” analogy for old school vs. new school leadership
• His unique connection to the Beverly Hills Supper Club fire
• What firefighters don’t get about politics
• When to hit the accelerator and when to tap the brakes
• The book he dares all firefighters to read

What else …

• Don’t miss: When it’s OK to make the fire chief uncomfortable
• Episode power quote: “It’s one thing to advocate it in print or on the speaking circuit; it’s another thing to be in this position and have to deliver.”
• Hot seat sneak peek: Mini-Tim

Resources we mentioned on the show …

• Chief Sendelbach’s father, Ed, pins the golden badge
• “What’s Killing Us?” Firefighter Health & Safety Seminar, March 20, 2023

Connect with us!

Email bettereveryshift@firerescue1.com to share your feedback!

Enjoying the show? Please take a moment to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts. 

The Raleigh firefighter and peer support advocate explains her perspective on healthy boundaries, therapy and why connection is life-sustaining

On this episode of the Better Every Shift podcast, Raleigh Battalion Chief Dena Ali joins the crew for a candid conversation about firefighter behavioral health, its connection to physical health, and her belief that the fire service needs its leaders to go beyond simply referring members to actually connecting with their members. We dig into that, plus all this:

• The sleep stat that shocked us
• The power of replacing the term “selfish” with “self-care”
• How to embrace being a “not-knower”

What else …

• Question: Does taking a nap make you lazy?
• Hot seat sneak peek: Tear-inducing movies and “Big Bootie Blueprint”
• Episode power quote: “Most of us would love to set boundaries, but our culture never made us feel like it was OK to have boundaries.”

Note: We did experience some minor technical difficulties on the video version, so check out how we replaced Zam’s pixelated look about halfway through the show.

Resources we mentioned on the show …

• ‘Be a not-knower’: The power of leading with humility
• Firefighters go above and beyond call of duty for woman who lost home
• “Therapy is awesome”
• 'It's OK to not be OK': Firefighter focuses on breaking the silence around mental health

Connect with us!

Email bettereveryshift@firerescue1.com to share your feedback!

Enjoying the show? Please take a moment to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts. 

‘Pull up your jogging pants and take some notes’ because the three fitness experts offer actionable tips for health in the new year.

On this episode of the Better Every Shift podcast, Zam joins forces with fellow firefighter fitness experts Chief Dan Kerrigan and Captain Jim Moss, authors of “Firefighter Functional Fitness,” to offer actionable tips for health in the new year – and non-fitness-guru Janelle learns that even experts need help from time to time. Plus, all this:

• Why mindset is the first piece of the health puzzle
• How smartphones impact firefighter health
• Who said it? “I crush ice cream and tequila like nobody’s business, and I gotta stop.”

What else …

• Don’t miss: A simple pro-tip for hydration
• Hot seat sneak peek: What music the experts listen to during workouts
• Episode power quote: “Whether you think you can or you can’t, you’re right.” – Henry Ford via Jim Moss

Resources we mentioned on the show …

• “Firefighter Functional Fitness” (book)
• Firefighter Functional Fitness (website)
• Fire Rescue Fitness

Connect with us!

Email bettereveryshift@firerescue1.com to share your feedback!

Enjoying the show? Please take a moment to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts. 

On this episode of the Better Every Shift podcast, Zam and Janelle dig into the year that was, from the major incidents that are still top of mind to our “words of the year.”

What else …

• Hot topic: The electric vehicle “mixed bag” of coverage
• Holiday hot seat sneak peek: Our professional milestones
• Episode power quote: “It’s been a heavy year … but we don’t get called in when someone has a good day.”
• Don’t miss: What Firefighters Want in 2023 theme announced

Resources we mentioned on the show …

• 2022 Year in Review: Major events and milestone moments
• 2022: The year in fire photos
• ‘Quiet quitting’: How fire officers can combat the phenomenon
• When firefighters quit en masse
• ‘The Great Resignation’: It could go either way for the fire service
• ‘This is not what I signed up for’: Why some firefighters simply don’t understand the job
• NYC, Philly tragedies highlight need to strengthen CRR efforts, trauma support
• Firefighters share support for Ukrainian fire crews on front lines of military action
• Video: FF injured as crews continue work on Walmart warehouse fire
• Dangerous lake-effect snow wallops New York
• Video: FDNY firefighters rescue individuals from high-rise fire that injured 38
• Electric vehicles and fire apparatus resources
• Video: Ragú delivers 792 jars of pasta sauce to Okla. firefighters
• ‘I saw you on TikTok’: The fire service recruitment strategy no one is talking about
• Lexipol Media Sites Recognized for Editorial Excellence in B2B Journalism
• crew frees kitten from Walmart soda machine, suggests 'Pepsi' for a name
• FF's son injured in Wis. Christmas parade incident walks again
• A year after tragedy, the Dancing Grannies ‘celebrate life’ in return to the Waukesha Christmas parade
• FDNY’s Frank Leeb: ‘We can do better. Start today.’

Email bettereveryshift@firerescue1.com to share your feedback!

On this episode of the Better Every Shift podcast, Zam talks to Bozeman (Montana) Fire Chief Josh Waldo about making incremental changes, whether at the individual or organizational level, plus all this:

• Waldo’s gut-check moment that changed his fire service trajectory;
• The first thing he did when he arrived at the Bozeman FD;
• An inside look at his new opportunity with the IAFC; and
• What fires him up more than anything from his firefighters.

What else …

• Don’t miss: His experience with ESPN GameDay’s visit to Bozeman
• Hot seat sneak peek: Favorite concert
• Episode power quote: “If you’re doing things the same way you were 5, 7, 10 years ago, you fell behind a little bit. That’s just the way things are in our profession.”

On this episode of the Better Every Shift podcast, Oakland Fire Chief Reggie Freeman joins Zam to talk:

• The unspoken battle – or war – between new and older members;
• Changing how we define competence;
• Why diversity is a choice for fire departments;
• Chiefs who have forgotten where they came from;
• The motivation of injustice; and
• His kids’ future in the fire service (??).

What else …

• Hot seat sneak peek: What’s your biggest pet peeve?
• Don’t miss: His advice to his 18-year-old self.
• Episode power-quote: “Family inspires me, injustice motivates me.”

Additional resources

Chief Reginald Freeman tapped to lead Oakland Fire Department

On this episode of the Better Every Shift podcast, Dr. Sara Jahnke, director of the Center for Fire, Rescue & EMS Health Research, joins Zam to bond over their shared forgetfulness of their own articles and, more importantly, the reality of translating fire service science to real-world tactics and behavior, plus all this:

• Her “fourth-child” project – the Science Alliance (and merch!);
• Simple steps for positive change;
• The power of positive peer pressure;
• The motivating story about cigarettes in fire service culture; and
• Her pop culture black hole, even with Coolio;

What else …

• Don’t miss: The data point that made her gasp
• Hot seat sneak peek: Her “walk-up” song
• Episode power quote: “People say, ‘I’m not a scientist, I’m just a firefighter,’ but I’m not a firefighter, I’m just a scientist.”
• Did you catch the movie quote? Email bettereveryshift@firerescue1.com

Stuff we mentioned on the show …

Science to the Station: A Health & Wellness Alliance (aka Science Alliance)

• Sign up here, enter code ZAM for a free year membership to the Science Alliance

Chris Nikic’s ESPYS speech

 

Additional resources

Read more from Dr. Jahnke about studies related to opioid use, shift schedules, alcohol use, Long-COVID and more.

On this episode of the Better Every Shift podcast, FDNY Deputy Chief Frank Leeb joins Zam to talk about what it means to be better every run, every day, every shift, plus:

• The transferability of experience – and lessons learned;
• The power of tracking small failures;
• The greatest threat to today’s firefighters;
• What we do too much, too late and too fast; and
• The best advice he’s ever received – and that he passes on to others.

What else …

• Don’t miss: Twin Parks fire review and analysis
• Hot seat sneak peek: Favorite firehouse meal
• Episode power quote: “Why can’t we learn the lesson that somebody else paid the price for maybe thousands of miles away?”

Stuff we mentioned on the show …

• What Firefighters Want in 2022: Fireground Leadership (Digital Edition – free download)
• After-action reviews: Because the ‘perfect fire’ doesn’t exist
• WHO cancer division reclassifies firefighting as a Group 1 carcinogenic profession
• FDNY: Constant use of multiple space heaters sparked fire that killed 17

Additional resources

• How to help firefighter families
• Cordico: Wellness resources for first responders and their families

This episode of the Side Alpha podcast is sponsored by Verizon Frontline, the advanced network and technology for first responders on the front lines. Learn more at verizon.com/frontline.

In this special crossover episode, public safety leaders come together to reflect on the 21st anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 attacks and the legacy of 9/11 in the emergency services.

Inside EMS host Chris Cebollero is joined by Policing Matters host Jim Dudley, deputy chief (ret.), of the San Francisco Police Department; and Gary Ludwig, of the Champaign (Illinois) Fire Department, the 2022 IAFC Career Fire Chief of the Year.

Together, they discuss how first responders have continued to move forward for over 20 years now and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice on 9/11 as recruits enter public safety who were not even born yet at the time.

The focus is on honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice and lived up to their oath to help others in their time of need, the legacy of lessons learned about responding in a hazardous situation, ongoing vigilance against threats and why “never forget” should not be a cavalier statement, but one made with meaning, purpose and with emphasis.

Read more recollections, as well as how lessons learned are impacting the way first responders of today train and respond to incidents in our 9/11 coverage, sponsored by Verizon.

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Chief Marc Bashoor discusses some of his favorite episodes and reveals some of the most popular shows. If you're new to the podcast, this is a great place to start, learning what other listeners found most engaging and which of the more than 100 shows to dive into first. 

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Fort Lauderdale (Florida) Fire Chief Rhoda Mae Kerr reflects on her fire service career, serving as a fire chief for multiple departments and as the first woman elected to serve as president of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC). A fourth-generation firefighter, Kerr also served as president of the IAFC’s METRO section and president of the National Society of Executive Fire Officers, and was appointed by President Obama to the National Infrastructure Advisory Council. Chief Kerr discusses these opportunities and others, while also touching on the importance of higher education in the fire service. 

This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit Lexipol.com.

There are countless benefits to higher education for firefighters – not only understanding the profession better but also becoming a better communicator, both verbally and on the written page, and enhancing critical-thinking and decision-making skills. Today's podcast features Bryon Gustafson, assistant professor and director of the Master of Public Safety program at the University of Virginia, about the benefits of higher education for firefighters, plus some of the leadership challenges currently facing the fire service. Dr. Gustafson has served in a variety of public service roles, mostly on the law enforcement side, but he got his start in the fire service.

This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit Lexipol.com.

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Chief Marc Bashoor unpacks the issue of what we call ourselves, specifically related to the use of the word "firemen" vs. "firefighter" in the names of fire service associations and organizations. 

This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit Lexipol.com.

On this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Dr. Bill Jenaway addresses the epidemic of roadway response struck-by incidents as well as a new nationwide database that allows first responders to voluntarily report such incidents at ReportStruckBy.com.

Dr. Jenaway is the project manager of the Federal Highway Administrationi-Cumberland Valley Volunteer Firemen's Association’s (CVVFA) Emergency Responder Safety Institute (ERSI) Traffic Incident Management Struck-by Reporting Project and an active member of the ESRI team. Jenaway spent over 40 years in the insurance industry, first managing national risk control specialist operations for two major insurance carriers, followed by his role at VFIS, managing its education, training and consulting services. With 50 years of Pennsylvania fire and EMS experience, Jenaway has served as chief in two communities and currently is assistant chief of safety in Upper Merion Fire & EMS in suburban Philadelphia. In addition, Jenaway is has served as the president of the Board of Directors of the Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI), has experience as an adjunct professor of Risk Analysis and Public Safety at three universities, authors the monthly Safety 101 Series in Pennsylvania Fireman magazine, and is in his third year as a local elected official.

This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit Lexipol.com.

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Chief Marc Bashoor outlines the importance of MCI training, underscoring that it's vital to training for low-frequency events, like MCIs, that have the potential for high-risk consequences. He also suggests a monthly and quarterly schedule for how often to train on MCI events.

This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit Lexipol.com

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Robert Weisbaum, EMS & Fire Chief for the Crested Butte Fire Protection District in Colorado, tackles a unique challenge facing the firefighters and its broader impact on the fire service as a whole. Specifically, Weisbaum and Chief Bashoor discuss the affordable housing crisis that affects so many across the country, including firefighters. Weisbaum explains the approach his department has taken to securing affordable housing for firefighters, and how this approach helps with broader recruitment and retention efforts. 

[Read next: Why I proposed my title be ‘EMS & fire chief’]

This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit Lexipol.com

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Chief Marc Bashoor explores fire protection systems in residential areas as well as larger facilities, like the Walmart distribution center. Are fire protection systems ever a waste of money?

This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit Lexipol.com.

On this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, FDNY Captain John Haseney tackles an important question: What is stopping fire departments from implementing occupational cancer-focused best practices? 

Captain Haseney has been with the FDNY since 2005, currently serving as the captain for Engine 38. He is a founding member of the department’s Contamination Reduction Workgroup.

Haseney got his master’s degree in security studies from the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, California, where he wrote a thesis titled, “Overcoming Implementation Barriers Within the Fire Service to Reduce Firefighter Cancer Rates.” The thesis identifies seven barriers that are preventing fire departments from implementing occupational cancer-focused best practices. Read the full thesis here.

This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit Lexipol.com.

 

Before we tackle each, can you share a bit about why you wanted to study this topic?

 

How did you tackle this topic? What was your methodology of study?

 

Let’s go through these implementation barriers one by one, and if you can provide a possible solution to each or a takeaway for fire departments, that would be great:

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Chief Marc Bashoor speaks with Chief Otto Drozd, the executive secretary of the NFPA/IAFC Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association. Having served as fire chief at four metro fire departments, Drozd speaks to the unique challenges of leading large fire service agencies, the variations from state to state, and how fire chiefs can make a difference at each department, even if through varying approaches. He details the work of the Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association and what it's been like stepping into his new role as executive secretary.

Drozd also tackles the importance of community outreach and community risk reduction (CRR) efforts, even amid the ongoing global pandemic. He speaks to issues of ISO ratings; accreditation, both on a personal and professional level; and active shooter events, including his involvement in NFPA 3000.

This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit Lexipol.com.

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell shares her experience as the newest U.S. fire administrator, a position she began in October 2021 following her time with the International Public Safety Data Institute.

Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell addresses several topics:

• Two major fatality incidents in the past several weeks;
• How past experience prepared her for the role as U.S. fire administrator;
• What to expect for the mission and vision of the USFA during her tenure;
• The role of data in the USFA and the broader fire service;
• The new USFA podcast; and
• What fire departments can continue to do to lessen the impact of COVID-19.

This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is brought to you by Lexipol, the experts in policy, training, wellness support and grants assistance for first responders and government leaders. To learn more, visit lexipol.com.

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Deputy Chief Billy Goldfeder details his recent diagnosis of prostate cancer. He shares what the experience has been like for him and his family, and how he worked with a team of doctors and the Firefighter Cancer Support Network to get the best guidance about how to proceed with his treatment options. 

Chief Goldfeder also shares a new initiative, 40PlusFire, a resource center where firefighters can learn about prostate cancer. The website is geared toward male firefighters over the age of 40 who are seeking information about prostate cancer prevention, risks and solutions. 

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Chief Marc Bashoor speaks with Chief Don Abbott, founder of Project Mayday, a comprehensive study of mayday responses, incidents and prevention. Abbott explains the project's origins and how firefighters can share their mayday stories. Abbott also details some of the key findings from the Project Mayday data, including looks at staffing levels, the 16 most common phrases heard on the radio prior to a mayday call, and recommendations for training for mayday incidents. 

This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by L3Harris Technologies. When the heat is on, you go all in, and L3Harris will be right there with you! The XL Extreme 400P radio is tailor-made to meet the most rigorous fire standards. Learn more at L3Harris.com/fire.

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Chief Marc Bashoor addresses critical staffing issues facing the fire service – the musical chairs of firefighters moving departments, searching for "greener pastures," or just throwing in the towel on the fire service altogether. Chief Bashoor reminds us that we have been here before, facing spiking call volumes for challenging call types with constantly changing guidance. He also underscores that firefighters are chaos and crisis managers by nature, and we must continue to push forward, not only for our communities but also to support our fellow firefighters who are struggling through this challenging time. 

This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by L3Harris Technologies. When the heat is on, you go all in, and L3Harris will be right there with you! The XL Extreme 400P radio is tailor-made to meet the most rigorous fire standards. Learn more at L3Harris.com.

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Chief Marc Bashoor speaks with Fire Chief John Oates, who was recently named the new CEO of the International Public Safety Data Institute. Chief Oates offers simple ways fire departments can leverage technology and data, addresses how fire chiefs can use data to inform decisions, and details the utility of NFORS and FireCares. He also speaks to the mission of the IPSDI and what it's like to follow in the footsteps of IPSDI's founder, Dr. Moore-Merrill, who was recently named the U.S. fire administrator.

This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by L3Harris Technologies. When the heat is on, you go all in, and L3Harris will be right there with you! The XL Extreme 400P radio is tailor-made to meet the most rigorous fire standards. Learn more at L3Harris.com.

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Chief Marc Bashoor speaks with Jonathan Tate, a DC Fire & EMS firefighter and the founder of Food on the Stove, a nonprofit organization that’s working to improve the health of firefighters in the DC metro area and beyond. Firefighter Tate shares how losing loved ones has been a key inspiration for focusing on firefighter health and wellness, ultimately working toward reducing the number of firefighter deaths from cardiac incidents. He also details the work of Food on the Stove, which offers a healthy meal-delivery program for firefighters.  

This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by L3Harris Technologies. When the heat is on, you go all in, and L3Harris will be right there with you! The XL Extreme 400P radio is tailor-made to meet the most rigorous fire standards. Learn more at L3harris.com/fire.

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Chief Marc Bashoor speaks with Chief Dave Downey about one of the biggest stories of the year — the structural collapse in Surfside, Florida. 

As the deputy coordinator for Florida's Statewide Emergency Response Plan (SERP), Chief Downey was asked to represent the State Fire Marshal’s Office at the incident to coordinate the state USAR response. Downey offers a unique perspective on the incident, having been so closely involved in the rescue and recovery efforts. 

Read more from Chief Downey: The Surfside condo collapse: An operational play-by-play, from deployment to AAR

"How many times does it take for a chief to hear near-misses before they recognize there's a systemic problem?" This is the question posed by Chief Marc Bashoor in this week's Side Alpha Podcast. 

Chief Bashoor has been following several mayday incidents as well as trends found in mayday incidents, as found in the research of Project Mayday, and identified three key areas to address:

1. The need to recognize conditions that could lead to a mayday;
2. What firefighters should do when they find themselves in trouble; and
3. How to change a culture that discourages firefighters from calling a mayday "too early."

Bashoor argues that it's time for firefighters to move beyond their fear of defeatism and ridicule and instead focus on their safety.

Learn more about Project Mayday.

Read Chief Bashoors article, "Here we are again, evaluating our mayday procedures after a tragedy."

Stay tuned for FireRescue1's upcoming special project series, "Your Mayday Survival Guide," launching in January 2022.

In this special crossover episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Chief Marc Bashoor speaks with Chris Cebollero, the host of Inside EMS, about the major news and trends impacting fire and EMS in 2021.

Bashoor and Cebollero unpack issues related to apparatus and ambulance safety, the COVID-19 vaccines, ET3 and telehealth, the use of ketamine, mayday training, and staffing shortages. 

Read more from our 2021 year-in-review special coverage.

And check out these related stories:

• ‘The Year of the Vaccine’: 2021 gave us vaccine protection and pushback
• Project Mayday
• 'It’s time to declare a staffing mayday': 21 ways VFDs can break the mold

• Why every firefighter-paramedic must know the story of Elijah McClain

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Chief Marc Bashoor speaks with Dalan Zartman about everything firefighters need to know about incidents involving electric vehicles and energy storage systems. Zartman details the increasing need for firefighters to have the skills to tackle these incidents and breaks down the basics of fire operations. 

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Chief Marc Bashoor speaks with Reginald Freeman, the new fire chief for the City of Oakland Fire Department in California’s Bay Area. Chief Freeman talks about the cross-country move from Hartford, Connecticut, and the differences between Hartford and Oakland. He also speaks to the pressure of joining the Oakland Fire Department upon the five-year anniversary of the deadly Ghost Ship warehouse fire. 

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Chief Marc Bashoor speaks with Chief Bob Horton from Fire District 3 in Jackson County, Oregon, about his debate-stirring article, "'This is not what I signed up for': Why some firefighters simply don’t understand the job." The article charges that fire service leaders must be honest about the realities of the job when engaged in recruitment activities, as too many members join the ranks unclear on how much non-fire activity exists in the fire service. The article elicited a significant number of comments from the FireRescue1 community, mainly on Facebook. Chief Horton reacts to some of the comments, explains the role of marketing in recruitment efforts, and takes a look at the long-term identity of firefighters.

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Fire Chief Marc Bashoor reflects on the news of a Columbia, S.C., fire station that was investigated for its reportedly “over-sexed culture.” Columbia police ultimately decided not to press criminal charges, but that didn’t stop word from spreading about station antics that reportedly involved butt-slapping, wedgies and an “overwhelming infatuation” with comparing male genitalia.

Chief Bashoor argues that while fire stations aren’t always sanctuaries of purity, they must be sanctuaries of public trust where members are expected to do the right thing, even when no one is watching. And this involves cultivating a positive culture, not glorifying a culture of sexism or childish or sex-charged behavior.

On this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Fire Chief Marc Bashoor speaks with Frank Leeb, a deputy assistant chief with the FDNY, currently serving as chief of the Fire Academy and chair of the department’s Contamination Reduction Workgroup. The chiefs discuss Leeb's recent FireRescue1 article "Marketing the message: How FDNY spreads the word about firefighter health and safety," which details simple steps fire departments can employ to best connect with members about important health issues. Leeb also shares what it's like to run training at the FDNY Fire Academy, aka "The Rock."

Bonus resource: Captain John Haseney's master's thesis identifies seven barriers that are preventing fire departments from implementing occupational cancer-focuses best practices: fire department culture, firefighters’ ignorance of the disease and prevention methods, complacency caused by cancer’s long latency periods, funding, pathways to compliance with national and departmental policies, groupthink, and motivation. Haseney's thesis examines the health and safety efforts that two departments have taken and reviews literature from other fire departments, national fire service organizations, subject-matter experts, researchers, and academic studies. 

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Fire Chief Marc Bashoor speaks with Ken Stuebing, fire chief of Halifax Regional Fire & Emergency in Nova Scotia, Canada, and president and board chair of the International Association of Fire Chiefs. 

Chief Stuebing shares what it's like to be the first international president to lead the IAFC in many years, and addresses the ongoing COVID-19 challenges facing the fire service, along with the IAFC's stance on vaccine mandates. He also details his background in EMS and offers some leadership tenets that have resonated with him throughout his career.

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Fire Chief Marc Bashoor speaks with Battalion Chief Keith Stakes, a research engineer with UL's Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI), about the organization's newly expanded mission, one that focuses on a broader range of emerging fire threats. Stakes shares more about the expanded research efforts at the organization and details some of the research currently underway at FSRI, including the Search & Size-up project.

Learn more about UL's FSRI at fsri.org and the organization's expanded focus on FireRescue1.

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Chief Marc Bashoor speaks with fire service legal expert Curt Varone about one of his favorite topics -- discipline. Varone covers the top disciplinary issues that get firefighters and fire officers in hot water, examines the concept of progressive discipline, and explains how disciplinary issues in the fire service vary from those in the "cubicle world" of corporate offices. 

Learn more about fire service discipline and performance issues in FireRescue1's special coverage series: Firefighter performance in focus.

Also, read more on this issue from Varone: "Discipline in the fire service: 4 questions to consider."

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Chief Marc Bashoor take a high-level look at discipline in the fire service, the importance of consistency, and how to manage friendships within the ranks. 

This episode is part of FireRescue1's special coverage series on Firefighter Performance. Check out the full list of content here.

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Chief Marc Bashoor speaks with Michael Baker, fire chief for the Tulsa (Oklahoma) Fire Department. Chief Baker details his first year as fire chief in Tulsa, including his work to improve firefighter morale and his goal to achieve zero fire deaths in Tulsa in 2022. The chief also shares how the department has weathered the COVID-19 storm and notes some of the department's changes during his tenure. Finally, he shares his views on lifelong learning and the pursuit of knowledge for fire chiefs. 

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Fire Chief Marc Bashoor speaks with Darryl Jones, fire chief for the Pittsburgh Bureau of Fire and member of the IAFC’s Metropolitan Fire Chiefs section. Chief Jones talks about how to deal with naysayers at an organization, focus on being a positive change agent for the department and build member morale. He also talks about the process of improving the department's ISO rating and how the department has weathered the COVID-19 storm.

This edition of the Side Alpha Podcast is brought to you by MSA. At MSA, your health and safety drive us to develop highly advanced safety equipment to protect you on the job. MSA’s Globe gear is performance and protection in perfect balance. It’s designed to meet the challenges you face every day to help keep you safe and healthy during your career and beyond. Get the full story at msafire.com/globe.

 

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Fire Chief Marc Bashoor speaks with Sam Greif, fire chief of Plano Fire-Rescue in Texas, and Chairman on the Terrorism & Homeland Security Committee for the IAFC. The two discuss the committee's work, terrorism response efforts and checklists for fire service leaders, and the biggest cybersecurity threats facing public safety agencies. 

Download the IAFC Terrorism Response Checklist here.

Watch the webinar, The growing threat of ransomware attacks on public safety agencies here.

This edition of the Side Alpha Podcast is brought to you by MSA. At MSA, your health and safety drive us to develop highly advanced safety equipment to protect you on the job. MSA’s Globe gear is performance and protection in perfect balance. It’s designed to meet the challenges you face every day to help keep you safe and healthy during your career and beyond. Get the full story at msafire.com/globe.

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Fire Chief Marc Bashoor weighs in on the debacle unfolding in Baltimore after a court of appeals ruling upholds changes to the city’s pension plan requiring first responders to serve an additional five years before being eligible for retirement benefits. Read the original news story on FireRescue1. Bashoor calls the ruling a "punch in the gut" to first responders coming off an incredibly difficult two years, and questions why local officials aren't looking out for their members instead of looking for ways to save money at their hands.

This edition of the Side Alpha Podcast is brought to you by MSA. At MSA, your health and safety drive us to develop highly advanced safety equipment to protect you on the job. MSA’s Globe gear is performance and protection in perfect balance. It’s designed to meet the challenges you face every day to help keep you safe and healthy during your career and beyond. Get the full story at msafire.com/globe.

In this special episode of the Side Alpha podcast, fire, EMS and law enforcement leaders from across the Lexipol media sites come together to reflect on the 20th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, attacks. Side Alpha Podcast host Fire Chief Marc Bashoor looks back on the industry-altering event with EMS One-Stop host Rob Lawrence, Inside EMS host Chris Cebollero and Policing Matters podcast host Jim Dudley. This special episode of the Side Alpha podcast is sponsored by Verizon.

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Fire Chief Marc Bashoor speaks with former FDNY Chief of Department and Fire Commissioner Sal Cassano about 9/11 and what it was like to face the arduous task of redesigning and rebuilding the department in the wake of such a massive loss. Cassano shares his personal 9/11 story, and details the recruitment efforts, new measures to reduce LODD numbers, and the support systems that helped the department in the aftermath. This edition of the Side Alpha Podcast is brought to you by MSA. At MSA, your health and safety drive us to develop highly advanced safety equipment to protect you on the job. MSA’s Globe gear is performance and protection in perfect balance. It’s designed to meet the challenges you face every day to help keep you safe and healthy during your career and beyond. Get the full story at msafire.com/globe.

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Fire Chief Marc Bashoor reflects on the upcoming 20-year anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. He considers what we have learned as a fire service, and poses critical questions for leaders: How has your department changed in the past 20 years? How much more could you do? Are you doing everything in your power to take care of your members and the community you are sworn to protect? We honor the 343 firefighter families who again grieve this September 11. We will never forget. -- This edition of the Side Alpha Podcast is brought to you by MSA. At MSA, your health and safety drive us to develop highly advanced safety equipment to protect you on the job. MSA’s Globe gear is performance and protection in perfect balance. It’s designed to meet the challenges you face every day to help keep you safe and healthy during your career and beyond. Get the full story at msafire.com/globe.

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Fire Chief Marc Bashoor speaks with Jessica Gardetto, the public affairs chief for the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC), which supports many different kinds of emergency responses but primarily wildland firefighting. Gardetto outlines the mission of the Center, how NIFC can help fire departments, and addresses the significant wildfire threats currently unfolding around the country. This edition of the Side Alpha Podcast is brought to you by MSA. At MSA, your health and safety drive us to develop highly advanced safety equipment to protect you on the job. MSA’s Globe gear is performance and protection in perfect balance. It’s designed to meet the challenges you face every day to help keep you safe and healthy during your career and beyond. Get the full story at msafire.com/globe.

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Fire Chief Marc Bashoor speaks with Division Chief Martha Ellis, executive director for the Public Safety Broadband Technology Association. Chief Ellis unpacks all things fireground communications, interoperability and FirstNet. She details the mission of the PSBTA and how FirstNet is currently serving the fire service. Contact Ellis here. This edition of the Side Alpha Podcast is brought to you by MSA. At MSA, your health and safety drive us to develop highly advanced safety equipment to protect you on the job. MSA’s Globe gear is performance and protection in perfect balance. It’s designed to meet the challenges you face every day to help keep you safe and healthy during your career and beyond. Get the full story at msafire.com/globe.

We are facing a new epidemic: 'D-Drivers' – drunk, drugged, drowsy, disrespectful, disgruntled, drag-racing, discourteous, distracted and just plain dangerous. “When are we going to realize that it is people who are killing other people, not the cars, not the trucks," Bashoor argues, calling for an escalation of focus on struck-by incidents. Learn more at www.respondersafety.com. This edition of the Side Alpha Podcast is brought to you by MSA. At MSA, your health and safety drive us to develop highly advanced safety equipment to protect you on the job. MSA’s Globe gear is performance and protection in perfect balance. It’s designed to meet the challenges you face every day to help keep you safe and healthy during your career and beyond. Get the full story at msafire.com/globe.

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Fire Chief Marc Bashoor speaks with Captain Andrea Hall about fire service leadership, specifically servant leadership, and how leaders can help their members thrive. Captain Hall offers guidance for bringing out the member in crewmembers and the critical role of supervision. She also discusses what it's been like to break barriers as a woman in the fire service, and she shares insights into her role at the presidential inauguration. This edition of the Side Alpha Podcast is brought to you by MSA. At MSA, your health and safety drive us to develop highly advanced safety equipment to protect you on the job. MSA’s Globe gear is performance and protection in perfect balance. It’s designed to meet the challenges you face every day to help keep you safe and healthy during your career and beyond. Get the full story at msafire.com/globe.

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Fire Chief Marc Bashoor speaks with Chris Cebollero about some of the hottest topics in fire-based EMS, including ET3 and treatment-in-place, plus how agencies can get reimbursed even when patients are not transported to the hospital. This edition of the Side Alpha Podcast is brought to you by MSA. At MSA, your health and safety drive us to develop highly advanced safety equipment to protect you on the job. MSA’s Globe gear is performance and protection in perfect balance. It’s designed to meet the challenges you face every day to help keep you safe and healthy during your career and beyond. Get the full story at msafire.com/globe.

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Fire Chief Marc Bashoor considers the differences that exist among personnel in the fire and emergency services, some of which create debates and distraction among the ranks: volunteer vs. career, fire vs. EMS, and similar us vs. them divisions. Chief Bashoor extends Chief Alan Brunacini's mantra "Be nice" beyond our interactions with the public to include our interactions with our colleagues. This edition of the Side Alpha Podcast is brought to you by MSA. At MSA, your health and safety drive us to develop highly advanced safety equipment to protect you on the job. MSA’s Globe gear is performance and protection in perfect balance. It’s designed to meet the challenges you face every day to help keep you safe and healthy during your career and beyond. Get the full story at msafire.com/globe.

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Dr. Sara Jahnke defines "Long-COVID," outlines the symptoms and addresses a powerful article by a firefighter currently suffering the effects after his COVID diagnosis. This edition of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by MSA. At MSA your health and safety drive us to develop highly advanced safety equipment to protect you on the job. MSA’s Globe gear is performance and protection in perfect balance. It’s designed to meet the challenges you face every day to help keep you safe and healthy during your career and beyond. Get the full story at MSAfire.com/Globe.

On this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast by FireRescue1, Battalion Chief Chad Costa and Fire Chief Marc Bashoor tackle the concept of "Dirty Helmet Syndrome," the idea that some firefighters continue to glamorize dirty gear and unsafe actions, despite knowing the risks. The two discuss the role of culture, generational differences and training, plus what fire officers can do to get their crews to focus more on health- and safety-focused goals. This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by Homeland-Six Tactical Radio Straps. These custom radio straps feature extractor washable decontamination, superior comfort and functionality. Learn more at homelandsix.com.

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Fire Chief Marc Bashoor speaks with the International Association of Fire Chiefs' new CEO, Rob Brown. The two discuss the future of the IAFC, emergent issues for the fire service, Brown's fire service background, and the honor and responsibility Brown feels to serve as CEO for the association. This edition of the Side Alpha Podcast is brought to you by MSA. At MSA, your health and safety drive us to develop highly advanced safety equipment to protect you on the job. MSA’s Globe gear is performance and protection in perfect balance. It’s designed to meet the challenges you face every day to help keep you safe and healthy during your career and beyond. Get the full story at msafire.com/globe.

In light of the new NFPA report 'Fire in the United States Since 1980, Through the Lens of the NFPA Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem,' Fire Chief Marc Bashoor considers the progress we have achieved and the problems that still exist in the fire service since the seminal report 'America Burning.' This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by Homeland-Six Tactical Radio Straps. These custom radio straps feature extractor washable decontamination, superior comfort and functionality. Learn more at homelandsix.com.

In this episode of the Side Alpha podcast, renowned PIO Pete Piringer offers a look into the life of a public information officer. He shares how he found himself in the PIO position and reflects on some of the more challenging events he experienced, namely 9/11. Piringer details communications about high-profile incidents, offers tips of the trade, and shares guidance for new PIOs. This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by Homeland-Six Tactical Radio Straps. These custom radio straps feature extractor washable decontamination, superior comfort and functionality. Learn more at homelandsix.com.

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Homeland-Six CEO Captain Sean Duncan tackles some of the key issues related to firefighter PPE decontamination and how it relates to cancer prevention. He details some of the ways advancements in PPE can help keep firefighters safe, and looks ahead for PPE trends. This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by Homeland-Six Tactical Radio Straps. These custom radio straps feature extractor washable decontamination, superior comfort and functionality. Learn more at homelandsix.com.

In this episode of the Side Alpha podcast, Fire Chief Nathan Trauernicht tackles a variety of topics: What it's like to lead a university-affiliated fire department; key fire department programs that align with the university's mission; how the department handled the COVID-19 pandemic; life in the wildland-urban interface; and more. This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by Homeland-Six Tactical Radio Straps. These custom radio straps feature extractor washable decontamination, superior comfort and functionality. Learn more at homelandsix.com.

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, NFPA President Jim Pauley and Metro Chiefs Executive Secretary Chief Russ Sanders break down the mission and vision of the National Fire Protection Association, the standards version of "how a bill becomes a law," plus how firefighters can -- and should -- get involved in the standards process. Learn more: Metropolitan Chiefs Section: nfpa.org/metro NFPA Fire & Life Safety Ecosystem: nfpa.org/ecosystem NFPA LiNK: NFPA.org/link This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by Homeland-Six Tactical Radio Straps. These custom radio straps feature extractor washable decontamination, superior comfort and functionality. Learn more at homelandsix.com.

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Chief Marc Bashoor discusses a hot topic in the fire and emergency services -- the increased focus on mobile integrated healthcare. Chief Bashoor explores how the city of Oakland, California, is integrating MIH into its service delivery, and calls on fire service leaders to explore MIH options. This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by Homeland-Six Tactical Radio Straps. These custom radio straps feature extractor washable decontamination, superior comfort and functionality. Learn more at homelandsix.com.

On this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast by FireRescue1, Trisha Wolford, fire chief in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, and chair of the IAFC’s Professional Development Committee. dives into the hot topic of cross-generation supervision in the fire service. Chiefs Bashoor and Wolford consider whether "traditional" or stereotypical characteristics of different generations hold true or if they are used too often as a crutch for poor leadership. The chiefs also explore how to best supervise all members, regardless of age and experience. This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by Homeland-Six Tactical Radio Straps. These custom radio straps feature extractor washable decontamination, superior comfort and functionality. Learn more at homelandsix.com.

In this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Chief Bashoor speaks with National Volunteer Fire Council interim CEO Chief Kevin Quinn and incoming CEO Sarah Lee about the organization's leadership transition following the untimely passing of CEO Heather Shafer, plus the vision for the future of the NVFC and how the organization is marking its 45-year anniversary. This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by Homeland-Six Tactical Radio Straps. These custom radio straps feature extractor washable decontamination, superior comfort and functionality. Learn more at homelandsix.com.

In this episode of the Side Alpha podcast, National Fire Academy Superintendent Eriks Gabliks reflects on his career and what it's been like to take the reins at the academy. He addresses the impact of COVID-19 on training activities and when the academy will be back in person. Gabliks also details some of the changes ahead to the EFO program and outlines some of his personal goals as superintendent. This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by Homeland-Six Tactical Radio Straps. These custom radio straps feature extractor washable decontamination, superior comfort and functionality. Learn more at homelandsix.com.

In this episode of the Side Alpha podcast, Scottsdale (Arizona) Assistant Fire Chief Eric Valliere explains this year's Safety Stand Down theme, "Rebuild Rehab," so members stay healthy on the incident scene. Chiefs Bashoor and Valliere talk about the physical issues that can arise when rehab efforts are not prioritized, ideas for integrating rehab activities into training, and where fire departments can learn more about the Safety Stand Down. This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by Homeland-Six Tactical Radio Straps. These custom radio straps feature extractor washable decontamination, superior comfort and functionality. Learn more at homelandsix.com.

In this episode of the Side Alpha podcast, Assistant Chief Dan Rogers explains discusses his article, “And that’s OK: Not all volunteers want to operate like FDNY,” which generated considerable debate and discussion among FireRescue1 community members. Rogers underscores that volunteers have lives beyond the station walls, and we can’t force them to all have the same level of commitment and passion, even if it means frustration when fewer members show up to non-fire calls. Chief Bashoor reads some of the social media reactions, giving Chief Rogers a chance to address readers who disagree and those who support his sentiment. Read Chief Rogers' article: https://www.firerescue1.com/volunteer/articles/and-thats-ok-not-all-volunteers-want-to-operate-like-fdny-OP28oHfDoDJ46mUk/ This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by Homeland-Six Tactical Radio Straps. These custom radio straps feature extractor washable decontamination, superior comfort and functionality. Learn more at homelandsix.com.

In this episode of the Side Alpha podcast, Fire Chief Marc Bashoor details the ongoing problem of apparatus rollover accidents. He discusses several recent incidents, what went wrong, and what drivers must consider when operating fire apparatus. Chief Bashoor also explains the 3 Gs of highway incidents: Get there, get done and get out. This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by Homeland-Six Tactical Radio Straps. These custom radio straps feature extractor washable decontamination, superior comfort and functionality. Learn more at homelandsix.com.

On this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Chief John Dorman digs into the debate about balancing education and hands-on training, outlining some of the ways higher education can complement fireground skills. Dorman details what firefighters should look for in a higher education institution or program, plus the pros and cons of online learning versus in-person courses. This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by Homeland-Six Tactical Radio Straps. These custom radio straps feature extractor washable decontamination, superior comfort and functionality. Learn more at homelandsix.com.

On this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Madison (Wis.) firefighter and fitness expert Aaron Zamzow takes a big picture look at firefighter fitness and the health culture that can help firefighters improve their physical and mental health. Zamzow and Bashoor share their fitness journeys, including the eye-opening stories that propelled them into a health-focused mindset, and discuss their current workout regimens. Zamzow outlines key steps for firefighter fitness and exercises to prolong a firefighting career. The pair also address the role of fitness in helping firefighters (and really everyone) emerge from the “COVID cocoon” of the past year. This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by EFJohnson, a JVCKENWOOD company. As a leader in mission-critical communications for more than 90 years, we have made it our mission to make safe, simple. Visit EFJohnson online at www.efjohnson.com.

On this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Fire Chief (ret.) Peter Van Dorpe, president of the International Society of Fire Service Instructors, addresses the pandemic’s impact on training efforts, key research types that firefighters of all levels should embrace in training, how to not feel intimidated by research, and much more.  This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by EFJohnson, a JVCKENWOOD company. As a leader in mission-critical communications for more than 90 years, we have made it our mission to make safe, simple. Visit EFJohnson online at www.efjohnson.com.

Kirk McKinzie, a fire captain (ret.) with the Cosumnes Fire Department, and Cosumnes Firefighter Justin Quarisa share their experience bringing immersive learning to the California fire department, how it complemented the department's hands-on training, and what's next for smart firefighting concepts. This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by EFJohnson, a JVCKENWOOD company. As a leader in mission-critical communications for more than 90 years, we have made it our mission to make safe, simple. Visit EFJohnson online at www.efjohnson.com.

The "Firefighter 3 crew" -- Matthew Hennessy, Andrew Beck and Ben Willey -- talk to Chief Bashoor about all the firefighter life skills that no one taught you in Firefighter 1 and 2, specifically, who's in charge of the remote, laundry etiquette at the station, and other lighthearted lessons all new firefighers should know. The crew also explains how these lighthearted lessons can translate into meaningful mentorship between new and existing members. Learn more about Firefighter 3 and download a Firefighter 3 PDF with firefighter life skills at www.firerescue1.com/FF3. This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by EFJohnson, a JVCKENWOOD company. As a leader in mission-critical communications for more than 90 years, we have made it our mission to make safe, simple. Visit EFJohnson online at www.efjohnson.com.

On this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Deputy Chief Ian Emmons speaks with Fire Chief Marc Bashoor about what fire service leaders are doing to prepare millennials to become the next generation of leaders. They address the unique motivations and value sets of millennials and how leaders can be mindful of these different approaches in order to best prepare them for leadership roles that others can emulate. This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by EFJohnson, a JVCKENWOOD company. As a leader in mission-critical communications for more than 90 years, we have made it our mission to make safe, simple. Visit EFJohnson online at www.efjohnson.com.

Fire Chief Marc Bashoor outlines what he sees as the next "giant leap" in public safety, one that could reduce the disconnect across agencies and lead to positive systemic change for first responders: a single federal parent organization to oversee all fire and EMS. This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by EFJohnson, a JVCKENWOOD company. As a leader in mission-critical communications for more than 90 years, we have made it our mission to make safe, simple. Visit EFJohnson online at www.efjohnson.com.

Firefighter/Paramedic Matthew Broom, who also works in financial services, discusses how firefighters can conduct a financial size-up, tips for strengthening financial health, what firefighters need to know about selecting the right pension, and financial concerns to address leading up to retirement. This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by EFJohnson, a JVCKENWOOD company. As a leader in mission-critical communications for more than 90 years, we have made it our mission to make safe, simple. Visit EFJohnson online at www.efjohnson.com.

Los Angeles Fire Department Fire Chief Ralph Terrazas details the department's vaccine distribution plan for members, which focuses on education, influence and incentives. He reflects on the LAFD members who lost their lives to COVID-19, and shares a message that one member expressed prior to his passing. Chief Terrazas also explains how the department has responded to the mental health impacts on members during the ongoing crisis. This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by EFJohnson, a JVCKENWOOD company. As a leader in mission-critical communications for more than 90 years, we have made it our mission to make safe, simple. Visit EFJohnson online at www.efjohnson.com.

Chief Bashoor weighs in on the hotly debated news of an Oklahoma City firefighter being disciplined for his decision to transport a burn victim in the fire engine after waiting 20 minutes for EMS to arrive. While the parents expressed their gratitude for the firefighter's proactive move, the firefighter was disciplined for violating department policy and state law. This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by EFJohnson, a JVCKENWOOD company. As a leader in mission-critical communications for more than 90 years, we have made it our mission to make safe, simple. Visit EFJohnson online at www.efjohnson.com.

Prince George's County Fire Chief Tiffany Green talks with Chief Bashoor about professional development in the fire service, detailing the department's fire cadet program, and shares her experience being the first female African-American chief of the department. This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by EFJohnson, a JVCKENWOOD company. As a leader in mission-critical communications for more than 90 years, we have made it our mission to make safe, simple. Visit EFJohnson online at www.efjohnson.com.

Chief John B. Tippett, Jr., the director of fire service programs for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), addresses how the principles of crew resource management can improve safety on the fireground, and shares some of the newest initiatives of the NFFF. Read more from Chief Tippett at www.firerescue1.com/columnists/john-tippett. This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by EFJohnson, a JVCKENWOOD company. As a leader in mission-critical communications for more than 90 years, we have made it our mission to make safe, simple. Visit EFJohnson online at www.efjohnson.com.

Fire Chief Marc Bashoor addresses the current Constitutional crisis facing the country and the protests at the U.S. Capitol, where hundreds gathered to dispute the recent presidential election results. Chief Bashoor addresses the responsibility of first responders to serve their communities, and country, with honor; how to avoid the traps of social media; freedom of speech debates; and much more.

Fire Chief Marc Bashoor and FireRescue1 Editor-in-Chief Janelle Foskett reflect on a most challenging year, discussing the unprecedented challenges fire and EMS personnel faced due to COVID-19 and civil unrest, while also considering some of the bright moments from 2020, including words of encouragement from fire service leaders.

Mike Pertz, a firefighter-paramedic with the Avon Lake (Ohio) Fire Department, offers tips to prospective firefighters facing challenges joining the ranks, addresses some of the misconceptions recruits have about the fire service, and tackles the key reasons members ultimately leave the fire service, and what leaders can do to keep them interested in a career in firefighting.

Gordon Graham, a risk management expert and co-founder of Lexipol, delineates the 10 families of risk, identifying the single risk that poses the biggest threat to firefighters as well as the fastest-growing risk within the fire service. Graham offers advice to all levels of fire service personnel about how to stay safe and out of trouble.

Fire Chief Marc Bashoor breaks down the U.S. Fire Administration report summarizing the fire service line-of-duty deaths (LODDs) in 2019, spotlighting the decrease in death totals, highlighting commons causes and reinforcing the push to "Get Below 50" LODDs in a single year.

Dr. Burton Clark, a 50-year fire service veteran, tackles firefighter behavior and organizational culture in order to help identify what prevents firefighters from taking proper safety precautions, even when they know it's the right thing to do.

Dr. David Black, a clinical psychologist and CEO of Cordico, discusses mental fitness within the fire service, addressing why firefighters don't seek help for behavioral health concerns, as well as how firefighters and fire service leaders can help each other and themselves when stresses grow.

Firefighter James Pribyl shares his experience as a volunteer firefighter with Turkey Creek Fire Rescue in Sneads Ferry, North Carolina, and its connections to his time as an active-duty Marine for 19 years. Pribyl also shares an honest look at a typical day of a volunteer firefighter, based on his FireRescue1 article "I am your local volunteer firefighter."

Loveland-Symmes (Ohio) Deputy Fire Chief Billy Goldfeder details the problem with "personality-based mutual aid," how crews can integrate policy into daily operations, tips for maintaining fire department relevance, and the key issue that keeps fire chiefs up at night -- and how to solve it.

Graham addresses how public safety agencies can employ training and policies to ensure their response efforts have a synergistic effect, rather than three agencies operating in silos. He also shares details about the Lexipol Connect Virtual User Group Conference on Oct. 14, 2020.

Chief Randy Bruegman discusses the recent CPSE/ICMA white paper “21st Century Fire & Emergency Services,” designed to stir debate, create dialogue and promote conversations about the changes facing the next generation of leaders, not only in the fire service but also in local government.

Keith Stakes, a research engineer with the UL Firefighter Safety Research Institute, describes the recent studies into coordinated fire attack, looking at the impact of ventilation on single-family home fires, multi-family dwelling fires and strip mall fires.

Loveland (Colorado) Fire Rescue Authority Division Chief Greg Ward explains the origins and purpose of the department's Tactical Firefighting (TAC Fire) Teams, which function as a critical element of the police department's SWAT Team, to respond to mass violence incidents.

Baltimore City Fire Chief Niles Ford examines the unique challenges facing fire chiefs in the modern era, from COVID-19 to civil unrest, and how leaders can best navigate the challenges of politics and budgets during such unique times.

Fire Chief Jason Caughey discusses a variety of volunteer fire department challenges, plus how to manage different generations among volunteers while always maintaining the public's trust.

Fire Chief Marc Bashoor addresses the fact that some fire service leaders face a new challenge in being deemed ‘guilty by association’ during recent national emergencies. Music by David Hyde

Linda Willing tackles fire service diversity, of both members and opinions, plus challenges facing women in the fire service, generational differences and mentoring the next generation.

Dr. Sara Jahnke, director of the Center for Fire, Rescue and EMS Health Research, explains what we know about the likelihood of COVID-19 surges, and tackles antibody testing reliability.

Fire Chief Marc Bashoor explains that fire/EMS departments will not be immune to the sweeping cuts many communities are beginning to experience; as such, it's key to find ways to prove your worth, cut where you can, and maintain the safety of your members. Music by David Hyde

As the conflagration continues, Fire Chief Marc Bashoor underscores that it's time to focus on your members, budget, planning for the future, and strong leadership. Music by David Hyde

Cathie Patterson, the branch chief for fire grants at FEMA, helps departments better understand the grants process, including how the peer review process works and grant pitfalls that can hinder grant success.

Todd LeDuc, Executive Assistant Fire Chief (ret.), Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue, tackles the top three health issues facing firefighters: cardiac issues, cancer and behavioral health challenges, and share strategies for staying healthy on the job.

Division Chief Kent Davis discusses the Charlotte (N.C.) Fire Department’s Police Assist Companies (PAC) and how it was used during the recent police violence protests in Charlotte, specifically during an alarming incident where crews were trying to conduct a confined space rescue while being harassed by protesters.

Lt. Jonathan Baxter, the Homeland Security Operations and Public Information Officer with the San Francisco Fire Department, details the firefight to contain the massive Pier 45 fire in the Fisherman’s Wharf area of the city – a firefight that also involved protecting the World War II-era SS Jeremiah O’Brien, which is docked at the pier.

Fire Chief Marc Bashoor asks, are you driving in the fast, slow or center lane in your organization? Music by David Hyde

National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC) Chair Steve Hirsch shares an insider’s perspective on volunteerism in the fire service, how to stem declining numbers, ideas for root success strategies for recruitment and retention efforts, and the future of the fire service.

In this Rapid Response to the massive Los Angeles blast that injured 12 LAFD firefighters, Fire Chief Marc Bashoor says explains why seeing the signs and signals of environmental change is like recognizing the signs and symptoms of a stroke or heart attack. Read the full article: firerescue1.com/columnists/marc-bashoor/ Music by David Hyde

Dr. Terry Jodrie, a paramedic and medical director, describes his deployment with the International Medical Corps to help treat patients with COVID-19 in New York City.

Fire departments are under the microscope, so we must follow the rules and provide accurate information Music by David Hyde

Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, president and CEO of the International Public Safety Data Institute and a FireRescue1 board member, talks about the history of the institute, FireCARES and NFORS, and how implementing real-time data in the resource decision-making process can significantly impact firefighter safety.

It’s time to get serious about long-term plans for navigating the pandemic. Music by David Hyde

Sorting through the maze of public health information overload and overlap so firefighters understand best practices related to COVID-19 exposure and isolation. Music by David Hyde

The more of you who break social distancing orders, the more first responders who will become sick and unable to serve. Music by David Hyde

Some members of the Administration and Congress have suggested that first responders could receive hazard pay during the pandemic. Fire Chief Marc Bashoor offers his analysis. Music by David Hyde

Spokane Fire Chief Brian Schaeffer discusses fire service generational differences, interpersonal communications, how firefighters learn, mentorship and mobile integrated healthcare.

IAFC President Gary Ludwig talks about the association’s campaign “If you don’t feel well, don’t make it your farewell,” focused on stayed attuned to cardiac health symptoms.

CFSI Executive Director Bill Webb talks about important CFSI initiatives and what fire chiefs – and firefighters at all levels – should know about navigating the world of fire service politics.

Fire Chief Joanne Rund shares her experience running a combination department and talks about the challenges of joining a new department at the top spot.

The former deputy U.S. fire administrator speaks to the mission of the U.S. Fire Administration, and discusses mentorship and the National Fire Academy

John Butler, fire chief of the Fairfax County (Virginia) Fire Department, addresses department missions and strategic planning, mentoring, public engagement and diversity in the fire service.

Ron Siarnicki, executive director of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, discusses cancer awareness and prevention and behavioral health issues in the fire service.