Fire Engineering Podcast

Fire and Training: Leadership at the Frontline

In this episode of Fire and Training, Douglas Cline sits down with Dave McGlynn to explore leadership rooted at the firehouse floor. They discuss how true leadership transcends rank, focusing on accountability, mentorship, and the critical influence of those “unofficial leaders” shaping day-to-day culture. From personal stories of veterans who inspired lasting impact to the challenges of today’s social media-driven environment, they address how passion and responsibility are essential for building resilient teams. The conversation also highlights the often-overlooked importance of fostering camaraderie and mentoring younger firefighters to create a legacy of excellence. McGlynn and Cline emphasize that leadership begins with caring for your teammates, taking ownership, and embracing the fire service’s unique brotherhood—and sisterhood—while balancing the high stakes and everyday moments that define the job.

In the Books: Anthony Avillo on Fireground Strategies, Fourth Edition

In this episode of In the Books, host and Fire Engineering Editor in Chief David Rodes sits down with Chief Anthony Avillo, North Hudson (NJ) Regional Fire and Rescue legend and author of the bestselling Fireground Strategies. Covering over three decades of frontline experience and fire service education, Avillo shares insights from his career. He highlights the development of his influential book through four editions, the challenges of regionalization, and the evolution of firefighting tactics amid modern building construction and high-rise complexities. Avillo also discusses his deep connection to music, drawing parallels between his love for classic rock—especially The Beatles—and his philosophy on leadership.

Tactical Impact: Strategies for Short-Staffed Departments with Lt. Jake Jorgensen

In this episode of Tactical Impact, hosts Jim Silvernail and Jason Hoevelmann sit down with Lieutenant Jake Jorgenson, of Watertown (SD) Fire Rescue, to discuss the realities and tactics of operating short-staffed fire departments. Watertown, a smaller city with limited personnel, faces frequent challenges responding to structure fires with minimal crews. Jorgenson shares how his department developed clear prearrival assignments, streamlined roles like nozzle and irons firefighter, and leverages their engine operators’ skills to maintain effective fireground operations despite staffing constraints. The panel also highlights rigorous training methods, including timed drills and scenario-based discussions, to build crew cohesion and adaptability. Jorgenson encourages firefighters from similar departments to share their experiences and participate in advancing fire service tactics through writing and collaboration.

Hooks and Hoses: FSRI’s Keith Stakes on Fire Dynamics, Suppression, and Ventilation Research

In this revealing July episode of the Hooks & Hoses podcast, host Eric Dreiman sits down with Keith Stakes, principal research engineer at Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI), part of UL Research Institutes, and deputy chief with Bethesda-Chevy Chase (MD) Rescue Squad. Stakes shares his unique perspective, which bridges rigorous fire science with frontline firefighting experience. They discuss the origins and evolution of critical fire behavior concepts like flow path and thermal layers, and why clear terminology matters. The conversation cuts through misconceptions about ventilation, emphasizing timing and coordination with suppression to avoid worsening conditions. They also touch on ongoing research tackling the challenges of water application in multistory structures and offer ways for firefighters to access training and research updates.

Mayday Monday: Inside Baltimore County’s Firefighter Mayday

The Backstep Boys: Preparing Firefighters for Violent Incidents

In this episode of the Backstep Boys, fire service veterans Ron Kanterman, Tom Aurnhammer, and guest James Salas reflect on the tragic line-of-duty death of Roswell (NM) Fire Chief Louis Jones in 2002 and recent ambush attacks on firefighters in Idaho. They discuss how these events reshaped departmental protocols, emphasizing staged responses to violent scenes, close cooperation with law enforcement, and the critical role of first-line officers in managing evolving threats. Salas highlights the importance of ongoing joint training, including active shooter scenarios, and implementing mental health resources for affected personnel. The conversation explores the challenges of balancing traditional firefighting duties with emerging hazards like targeted violence and the adoption of ballistic gear.

Tailboard Talk: Preparing for the Unthinkable

In this episode of Tailboard Talk, hosts Craig Nelson, Jeff Wallin, and Chris Rasmussen look at the realities of modern emergency response across North America. They discuss the increasing wildfire smoke drifting south from Canada, severe floods in Texas and North Dakota, and the vital role of interagency cooperation in disaster management. Drawing from recent tornado damage and community-led recovery efforts, the hosts emphasize the importance of preplanning, mutual-aid networks, and dynamic staffing strategies for public safety. They highlight how small-town departments must build relationships with neighboring agencies, public works, and emergency managers to effectively respond to large-scale crises.