Firefighter Nation Podcast

In this episode of Igniting the Shift Within, Chief John M. Curd Jr. of Riviera Beach (FL) Fire Rescue speaks with host David Dachinger about the often-overlooked complexities of fire station design. Prioritizing contamination reduction, contagion control, safety, efficiency, and firefighter well-being, Chief Curd shares how he’s pioneering a shift in mindset within his department and the industry.

Together, they discuss the pressing health concerns that firefighters face, explore innovative solutions that enhance wellness, and uncover the motivations behind the new fire station that pays homage to the past while embracing the future. How do you balance comfort and functionality in sleeping quarters? What strategic plans have been put in place to combat issues like diesel particulate exposure?

Firefighter Nation welcomes The C.A.N. Report, hosted by Michael Goldstein, who describes the show as "a mission to bring the fire service and first responder community of New Hampshire to the masses." This episode delivers a compelling conversation centered on leadership, brotherhood, and the often-unspoken mental health realities that first responders face. The guest, Samson "Mufasa" DeSessa, is a seasoned U.S. Air Force veteran and fire chief with over three decades of service. DeSessa provides personal insights drawn from his diverse military and fire service career. 

On this episode of We Can't Believe They Gave Us a Show, hosts Nick Magoteaux and Jim Burneka welcome guests Eileen and her daughter Kat Bellew. Eileen Bellew shares the raw and moving story of how their lives were changed by the tragic loss of Eileen’s husband John, a New York City firefighter who died in the Bronx Black Sunday Fire, 21 years ago. 

They recount the harrowing moments of that January day, the agonizing uncertainty, and the crushing aftermath of grief compounded by a long and complex criminal trial. The conversation explores the lasting impact on their family—children grappling with PTSD, a mother’s hypervigilance, and the struggle to find peace amid relentless pain. Eileen discusses her upcoming memoir, offering insight into widowhood and raising four children after tragedy. 

In this episode of Fueling Fire, host Megan Lautz welcomes performance dietitian Diana Nguyen, who breaks down what pre-workout powders actually do and why most people are chasing a buzz instead of real fuel. They cover caffeine dosing, proprietary blends, safety risks, and smarter alternatives that actually work for first responders.

The host and guest also debunk common myths, explain the actual benefits and risks of popular ingredients like caffeine, creatine, and beta-alanine, and highlight the importance of proper dosing and timing. They also share tips on how to interpret supplement labels, assess third-party testing, and avoid overstimulation that can compromise focus and sleep.

In this episode of Mental Health Monthly, hosts Dan Degryse and Chris Muscle discuss the complexities of retiring from the fire service. They share their personal journeys navigating the physical, emotional, and mental shifts that come with hanging up the helmet. The hosts also discuss critical topics like managing health risks, including cancer and heart issues, improving post-retirement sleep patterns, and the importance of intentionality in cultivating meaningful relationships beyond the firehouse. 

In this episode of APS Radio, host Jim Burneka talks about his own experience living with cancer. He offers insight on the mental toll cancer takes, including the crippling fear of recurrence that can grip survivors from year to year. Burneka emphasizes the importance of trauma-informed support, mentorship from fellow firefighters who understand the unique challenges of a diagnosis. Beyond the struggle, Burneka offers hope, urging listeners to refocus on what truly matters and live fully despite uncertainty.

Find more support through the Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN): www.FirefighterCancerSupport.org, 866-994-3276, and the University of Miami Firefighter Cancer Initiative: https://umiamihealth.org/en/sylvester-comprehensive-cancer-center/research/firefighter-cancer-initiative.

In this episode of Igniting the Shift Within, host David Dachinger welcomes Nicholle Brock, a captain with Atlanta (GA) Fire Rescue Department. During their discussion, they explore the critical themes of leadership and Brock addresses the silent suffering often experienced in the fire service, which she also discusses in her book, Brick by Brick: Building Resilience in Chaos and Kindness.

Brock, a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience, shares her journey in the fire service and the motivations behind her leadership style. She tackles the unique challenges she faces as a female leader and offers insights into breaking the silence surrounding mental wellness. She also looks at the power of leadership that listens, leads from the front, and mentors with goal-setting to reshape careers and departments.

Seth Haley, president of Trotwood (OH) Firefighters Local 4024 joins host Jim Burneka on this episode of APS Radio. They discuss the proposed layoffs of five firefighters from the City of Trotwood and the SAFER grant they were part of, which expired in February 2025. The conversation addresses the implications for community safety, staffing shortages, and firefighter morale—especially amidst rising call volumes and fire incidents. Haley sheds light on internal department dynamics, nonessential roles, and legal protections around layoffs. They emphasize the urgent need for community support and open dialogue with city leadership.

On this episode of We Can't Believe They Gave Us a Show, hosts Jim Burneka and Nick Magoteaux welcome their longtime friend Jen Cramer (FirmFoundationCC.com/). The three tackle the real challenges of seasonal depression in the firefighting community. As the days get darker and the holidays approach, many firefighters face isolation, grief, and stress. Cramer, a licensed therapist in Ohio, shares practical advice, from embracing heated apparel for wintertime activity to using light therapy and vitamin D supplements. During their discussion, they also emphasize the value of including retirees in the firefighting family to help combat loneliness.

In this episode of Mental Health Monthly, Dan Degryse and Chris Muscle discuss what makes firefighting more than just a job. Beyond the risks and stress, they celebrate the unique camaraderie that fuels their passion for the fire service. Reflecting on decades of experience, they explore how mental health isn’t just about struggles but also about positivity and connection. 

With stories of mentorship, daily rituals like shared chores, and the importance of intentional relationships, they highlight how staying engaged with colleagues and loved ones strengthens resilience. They also tackle current challenges, including recruitment difficulties and rising workplace stress, offering practical perspectives from personal and family experiences.