HAZARD CLASS

In this episode of the Hazard Class Podcast, we sit down with Deputy Chief Daniel DeYear, a 45-year veteran of the fire service, including notable positions such as U.S. Department of State Fire Marshal and Deputy Chief of Dallas Fire Rescue. In a candid conversation, Chief DeYear shares stories from his extensive career, including his early days in the fire service, the evolution of EMS and fire tactics, and the importance of training and accountability in today's fire departments.

00:00 - Introduction to Chief Daniel DeYear

• Introduction of Chief DeYear and his illustrious 45-year career in the fire service.
• Overview of his roles in Dallas Fire Rescue and as an international fire marshal with the U.S. Department of State.

02:00 - Early Days in the Fire Service

• Chief DeYear reflects on his upbringing in the Bronx during the 1960s and 70s, and how he was drawn to the fire service from a young age.
• Becoming a junior volunteer firefighter at the age of 14.
• The early influence of the Emergency! TV show and Dennis Smith's Report from Engine Company 82.

05:30 - Firefighting in the 70s and 80s: Primitive Tools and Communication

• Description of early fire gear, including 15-minute SCBAs, and the lack of radios for firefighters.
• A look at the culture of firehouse accountability before formalized systems were introduced.
• Chief DeYear's early experiences with dangerous fires, such as the incident where he helped rescue a firefighter trapped under a collapsed beam at the age of 15.

09:40 - Realizing the Fire Service Was the Career Path

• Chief DeYear talks about his decision to pursue firefighting as a lifelong career and how his family supported his path despite their initial reservations.
• The competitive job market in the fire service at the time and his journey to becoming a firefighter in Texas.

14:00 - Transition to the Dallas Fire Department and Working as a Fire Marshal

• Chief DeYear’s move to Texas and his time at the Carrollton Fire Department.
• His work as a Fire Marshal, public educator, and later, a training officer.
• His time as an international fire marshal and what that role entailed while traveling to over 35 countries.

22:00 - The Evolution of EMS and Paramedicine

• Early days of EMS in the U.S. and Chief DeYear’s experience as a paramedic in the early 80s.
• How paramedic training was much less extensive back then compared to today, and the impact of the AIDS epidemic on fire service safety protocols.

28:00 - Fire Tactics and Safety: A Changing Landscape

• Discussing the evolution of fire tactics, including changes in firefighting gear, communication, and building construction.
• The shift from traditional fire tactics to more advanced practices, including better understanding of fire science and building construction.

34:00 - The Role of Company Officers and Leadership

• Chief DeYear’s thoughts on what makes a good company officer in the fire service.
• A look at how company officers should serve their crew and foster a culture of accountability and continuous learning.
• The importance of mentorship, investing in the crew, and avoiding complacency.

43:00 - Line of Duty Deaths and Safety Culture

• Chief DeYear reflects on his experiences with line of duty deaths and the fire investigations that shaped his perspective on safety.
• The importance of assessing risk versus reward and the need for smart decision-making on the fireground.

50:00 - Training and Improving the Fire Service

• The value of continuous training, even after years of service, and the importance of self-assessment.
• Chief DeYear’s thoughts on how to cultivate a training culture that embraces learning, even among experienced firefighters.
• How company officers can prevent complacency and foster a positive training environment.

1:00:00 - Handling Critiques and Learning from Mistakes

• Chief DeYear discusses how to properly handle post-incident critiques without turning them into punitive sessions.
• The importance of balancing positive reinforcement with constructive feedback in fire department training.

1:05:00 - Chief DeYear’s Advice for Young Firefighters

• The role of company officers in shaping the career trajectories of young firefighters.
• How to guide rookie firefighters and ensure they remain engaged and passionate about their work.

• "The fire service is about service to the community—everything else is secondary."
• "A company officer’s job is to serve their crew, to ensure they have the training, the tools, and the support they need to succeed."

In the Season 2 premiere of the Hazard Class Podcast, Jake sits down with John Esposito, Chief of Department for the FDNY, for an intimate and wide-ranging discussion on leadership, legacy, and the realities of life in one of the world’s busiest fire departments. From 9/11 reflections and the evolution of FDNY to the traits of impactful leaders and memorable fireground moments, Chief Esposito shares hard-earned wisdom and never-before-heard stories that offer rare insight into the heart of New York’s Bravest.

0:00 – 2:45 | Intro & 9/11 Reflections

Jake introduces Chief Esposito and shares a personal 9/11 memory.

Chief discusses how 9/11 reshaped the FDNY and the lasting impact on the department’s culture and capabilities.

2:46 – 6:00 | The FDNY’s National Influence

How FDNY’s decisions ripple across the American Fire Service.

Lessons learned through innovation and trial by fire.

6:01 – 12:00 | Staying Connected to the Streets

Chief Esposito explains how he maintains real-time awareness of field operations.

Insights on technology, communication systems, and his use of Citizen App.

12:01 – 14:26 | Origins & Career Beginnings

Why Esposito joined the FDNY in 1991.

Reflections on becoming a firefighter and the influence of Report from Engine Co. 82.

14:27 – 18:00 | First Fire & Early Lessons

Vivid recollection of his first fire.

Thoughts on preparation, performance, and the emotional charge of that first job.

18:01 – 21:15 | Transition to Special Operations

Moving to Squad 18 and working with elite fire personnel.

The rigorous process and mindset behind making the switch.

21:16 – 25:35 | Training Culture & Tough Calls

The philosophy of consistent, adaptive training.

Real-world example: A Bronx rescue where plan B wasn’t good enough—they needed plan E.

25:36 – 30:04 | Memories of Andy Fredericks

Personal stories and heartfelt tribute to a fire service legend.

A hilarious and humbling hydrant mishap involving Fredericks.

30:05 – 33:25 | Climbing the Ranks

Post-9/11 promotions and unexpected career trajectory.

How staying ready allowed him to rise in leadership.

33:26 – 36:32 | Leadership & Morale

The most important traits in fire service leadership.

Balancing empathy, accountability, and understanding your people.

36:33 – 38:08 | Caring for Morale

Where morale comes from and how leaders must foster it.

Real-life examples of FDNY’s finest doing heroic work.

38:09 – 40:00 | Pride & Purpose

What Chief Esposito is most proud of in his career.

Doing the right thing in gray-area decisions.

40:01 – 41:21 | The Stupid Question Returns

OG question: Who would win in a fight—grizzly, tiger, or gorilla?

Fun and lighthearted close with reflections on strength and instinct.

Segment Breakdown & Timestamps:

In the Season 2 premiere of the Hazard Class Podcast, Jake sits down with John Esposito, Chief of Department for the FDNY, for an intimate and wide-ranging discussion on leadership, legacy, and the realities of life in one of the world’s busiest fire departments. From 9/11 reflections and the evolution of FDNY to the traits of impactful leaders and memorable fireground moments, Chief Esposito shares hard-earned wisdom and never-before-heard stories that offer rare insight into the heart of New York’s Bravest.

0:00 – 2:45 | Intro & 9/11 Reflections

Jake introduces Chief Esposito and shares a personal 9/11 memory.

Chief discusses how 9/11 reshaped the FDNY and the lasting impact on the department’s culture and capabilities.

2:46 – 6:00 | The FDNY’s National Influence

How FDNY’s decisions ripple across the American Fire Service.

Lessons learned through innovation and trial by fire.

6:01 – 12:00 | Staying Connected to the Streets

Chief Esposito explains how he maintains real-time awareness of field operations.

Insights on technology, communication systems, and his use of Citizen App.

12:01 – 14:26 | Origins & Career Beginnings

Why Esposito joined the FDNY in 1991.

Reflections on becoming a firefighter and the influence of Report from Engine Co. 82.

14:27 – 18:00 | First Fire & Early Lessons

Vivid recollection of his first fire.

Thoughts on preparation, performance, and the emotional charge of that first job.

18:01 – 21:15 | Transition to Special Operations

Moving to Squad 18 and working with elite fire personnel.

The rigorous process and mindset behind making the switch.

21:16 – 25:35 | Training Culture & Tough Calls

The philosophy of consistent, adaptive training.

Real-world example: A Bronx rescue where plan B wasn’t good enough—they needed plan E.

25:36 – 30:04 | Memories of Andy Fredericks

Personal stories and heartfelt tribute to a fire service legend.

A hilarious and humbling hydrant mishap involving Fredericks.

30:05 – 33:25 | Climbing the Ranks

Post-9/11 promotions and unexpected career trajectory.

How staying ready allowed him to rise in leadership.

33:26 – 36:32 | Leadership & Morale

The most important traits in fire service leadership.

Balancing empathy, accountability, and understanding your people.

36:33 – 38:08 | Caring for Morale

Where morale comes from and how leaders must foster it.

Real-life examples of FDNY’s finest doing heroic work.

38:09 – 40:00 | Pride & Purpose

What Chief Esposito is most proud of in his career.

Doing the right thing in gray-area decisions.

40:01 – 41:21 | The Stupid Question Returns

OG question: Who would win in a fight—grizzly, tiger, or gorilla?

Fun and lighthearted close with reflections on strength and instinct.

In this compelling episode, Jake is joined by Lt. Col. Quinn Gallagher, a veteran U.S. Air Force pilot with nearly 20 years of service. Gallagher's story is one of deep personal loss, resilience, and unwavering dedication to preserving life—both on and off the battlefield. From harrowing combat rescue missions in Afghanistan and Iraq to evaluating cutting-edge aircraft as an experimental test pilot, Quinn shares a raw and insightful look into military aviation, emotional endurance, and the pursuit of purpose through service.

00:00 – Introduction and Guest Welcome

Jake introduces the episode and welcomes Lt. Col. Quinn Gallagher to the show.

06:51 – Wheel of Stupid Questions: Can You Beat a Cheetah?

Kicking things off with a humorous debate about whether Quinn could beat a cheetah in a fight.

13:42 – Quinn's Childhood and Motivation for Service

Quinn recounts early childhood experiences that sparked his desire to serve others.

20:34 – Tragedy and Early Exposure to Loss

He shares tragic events that shaped his understanding of life and death from a young age.

27:25 – Firefighting vs. Military – Career Crossroads

Exploring the decision between firefighting and joining the military.

34:17 – Path to the Air Force Academy

How Quinn got into the Air Force Academy, including a unique presidential nomination.

41:08 – Air Force Training and Vision Waivers

Discussion of the challenges and special accommodations needed to become a pilot.

48:00 – Flight Training and Choosing Helicopters

An inside look at military flight school and why Quinn opted to fly helicopters.

54:51 – First Combat Deployment: Afghanistan

Stories from Quinn’s first deployment in Afghanistan and his early combat missions.

61:43 – Crew Composition and Helicopter Operations

Details about helicopter crew roles, mission dynamics, and technical aspects of flying.

68:34 – SERE School and Mental Preparation

Insights into SEER training and how it prepares pilots for survival and resistance.

75:25 – Second and Third Deployments: Iraq and Africa

Operations in Iraq and Africa, comparing the intensity and mission scope.

82:17 – Test Pilot Work and Evaluating Aircraft

Gallagher's role as a test pilot and what it’s like evaluating advanced military aircraft.

89:08 – Reflections on Service and Returning Home

Quinn reflects on combat, mental health, burnout, and transitioning to civilian life.

Jake is joined by Lt. Col. Quinn Gallagher, a veteran U.S. Air Force pilot with nearly 20 years of service. Gallagher's story is one of deep personal loss, resilience, and unwavering dedication to preserving life—both on and off the battlefield. From harrowing combat rescue missions in Afghanistan and Iraq to evaluating cutting-edge aircraft as an experimental test pilot, Quinn shares a raw and insightful look into military aviation, emotional endurance, and the pursuit of purpose through service.

Segment Timestamps:

00:00 – Introduction and Guest Welcome

Jake introduces the episode and welcomes Lt. Col. Quinn Gallagher to the show.

06:51 – Wheel of Stupid Questions: Can You Beat a Cheetah?

Kicking things off with a humorous debate about whether Quinn could beat a cheetah in a fight.

13:42 – Quinn's Childhood and Motivation for Service

Quinn recounts early childhood experiences that sparked his desire to serve others.

20:34 – Tragedy and Early Exposure to Loss

He shares tragic events that shaped his understanding of life and death from a young age.

27:25 – Firefighting vs. Military – Career Crossroads

Exploring the decision between firefighting and joining the military.

34:17 – Path to the Air Force Academy

How Quinn got into the Air Force Academy, including a unique presidential nomination.

41:08 – Air Force Training and Vision Waivers

Discussion of the challenges and special accommodations needed to become a pilot.

48:00 – Flight Training and Choosing Helicopters

An inside look at military flight school and why Quinn opted to fly helicopters.

54:51 – First Combat Deployment: Afghanistan

Stories from Quinn’s first deployment in Afghanistan and his early combat missions.

61:43 – Crew Composition and Helicopter Operations

Details about helicopter crew roles, mission dynamics, and technical aspects of flying.

68:34 – SERE School and Mental Preparation

Insights into SEER training and how it prepares pilots for survival and resistance.

75:25 – Second and Third Deployments: Iraq and Africa

Operations in Iraq and Africa, comparing the intensity and mission scope.

82:17 – Test Pilot Work and Evaluating Aircraft

Gallagher's role as a test pilot and what it’s like evaluating advanced military aircraft.

89:08 – Reflections on Service and Returning Home

Quinn reflects on combat, mental health, burnout, and transitioning to civilian life.

The Hazard Class Podcast takes a step back to reflect on one year of podcasting. Celebrating the show's first anniversary, he shares behind-the-scenes insights, the journey so far, mental health milestones, and exciting future directions. This episode offers a rare, personal look into the making of the podcast, the powerful impact of its guests, and what’s ahead—including a few intriguing curveballs like Bigfoot and ghost hunters.

Segment Breakdown & Timestamps

• [00:00] Welcome & Introduction
• Reflecting on the anniversary and how it all began.
• [01:30] Gratitude to Listeners & Guests
• Expressing deep appreciation for the audience and highlighting iconic guests like John Norman, Dennis Lagear, Ray McCormick, and Coralie Moore.
• [04:50] Podcast Milestones & Guest Highlights
• A recap of some standout moments and interviews from the past year.
• [07:10] Mental Health Journey
• Personal update on visiting the IAFF Center of Excellence and how it’s impacted his life and the podcast.
• [09:25] Current Challenges & Behind-the-Scenes
• Discussing the grind of weekly production and the realities of running a podcast solo.
• [11:10] Upcoming Fire Fusion Conference & Medal of Valor
• Sharing the honor of receiving a national award and traveling to Charleston, SC.
• [14:00] Mason’s Deployment & Team Acknowledgment
• Recognizing his colleague Mason, currently deployed, and emphasizing the team effort behind the recognition.
• [16:30] Life Updates & Lighter Moments
• Talking about kayaking with dolphins, crocodile paranoia, and keeping the tone light and fun.
• [18:30] What’s Next for the Podcast
• Plans to diversify guest topics including Bigfoot, aliens, and ghost hunters. A sneak peek into a curious and expanded vision for future episodes.
• [21:00] Closing Remarks & Thank You
• A sincere thank-you to listeners and encouragement to continue supporting the show.

Key Moments & Highlights

• “Never in my wildest dreams did I think I'd talk to these people.” – A moment of humility reflecting on conversations with industry legends.
• Honest insight into the emotional and logistical challenges of independent podcasting.
• Teaser for future content: From hazmat to the paranormal—because it’s his podcast, and he’ll do what he wants.

As the Hazard Class Podcast wraps its first year, this episode offers gratitude, reflection, and a preview of what’s next. From tactical insights to unexplored curiosities, the host promises to keep conversations meaningful and the content evolving.

Enjoyed the episode?

• Subscribe on your favorite podcast app
• Share it with friends and colleagues
• Follow us on Social Media
• Leave a review – it helps more than you know

Thank you for an incredible first year. Here's to many more.

The Hazard Class Podcast takes a step back to reflect on one year of podcasting. Celebrating the show's first anniversary, he shares behind-the-scenes insights, the journey so far, mental health milestones, and exciting future directions. This episode offers a rare, personal look into the making of the podcast, the powerful impact of its guests, and what’s ahead—including a few intriguing curveballs like Bigfoot and ghost hunters.

• [00:00] Welcome & Introduction
• Reflecting on the anniversary and how it all began.
• [01:30] Gratitude to Listeners & Guests
• Expressing deep appreciation for the audience and highlighting iconic guests like John Norman, Dennis Lagear, Ray McCormick, and Coralie Moore.
• [04:50] Podcast Milestones & Guest Highlights
• A recap of some standout moments and interviews from the past year.
• [07:10] Mental Health Journey
• Personal update on visiting the IAFF Center of Excellence and how it’s impacted his life and the podcast.
• [09:25] Current Challenges & Behind-the-Scenes
• Discussing the grind of weekly production and the realities of running a podcast solo.
• [11:10] Upcoming Fire Fusion Conference & Medal of Valor
• Sharing the honor of receiving a national award and traveling to Charleston, SC.
• [14:00] Mason’s Deployment & Team Acknowledgment
• Recognizing his colleague Mason, currently deployed, and emphasizing the team effort behind the recognition.
• [16:30] Life Updates & Lighter Moments
• Talking about kayaking with dolphins, crocodile paranoia, and keeping the tone light and fun.
• [18:30] What’s Next for the Podcast
• Plans to diversify guest topics including Bigfoot, aliens, and ghost hunters. A sneak peek into a curious and expanded vision for future episodes.
• [21:00] Closing Remarks & Thank You
• A sincere thank-you to listeners and encouragement to continue supporting the show.

• “Never in my wildest dreams did I think I'd talk to these people.” – A moment of humility reflecting on conversations with industry legends.
• Honest insight into the emotional and logistical challenges of independent podcasting.
• Teaser for future content: From hazmat to the paranormal—because it’s his podcast, and he’ll do what he wants.

As the Hazard Class Podcast wraps its first year, this episode offers gratitude, reflection, and a preview of what’s next. From tactical insights to unexplored curiosities, the host promises to keep conversations meaningful and the content evolving.

Enjoyed the episode?

• Subscribe on your favorite podcast app
• Share it with friends and colleagues
• Follow us on Social Media
• Leave a review – it helps more than you know

We welcome Chief Corley Moore, retired battalion chief, author, podcaster, and the mind behind Firehouse Vigilance. Known for his thought leadership in fire service culture, leadership development, and his popular “Weekly Scrap” podcast, Corley shares his personal journey from a young father working dead-end jobs to becoming a leader and voice in the fire service.

This episode is packed with relatable stories, valuable leadership principles, reflections on organizational culture, and a deep dive into the importance of training, humility, and continual growth within the fire service.

Segment Breakdown & Timestamps:

0:00 – 1:04 | Introduction & Guest Welcome

Introduction to Chief Corley Moore, his background, and work with Firehouse Vigilance.

1:05 – 3:37 | Wheel of Stupid Questions

Corley reveals his nerdy side, including his love for sci-fi, D&D, and 80s fantasy trivia.

3:38 – 10:48 | Corley’s Firefighting Origin Story

From marrying young and raising three kids by 23 to joining the fire service by chance, Corley shares how he found his calling.

10:49 – 18:28 | Early Career & Moore FD Culture

What the Moore FD was like in the late ‘90s, from frat-house vibes to a lack of training, and the slow shift toward professionalism.

18:29 – 25:49 | The Culture Shift & Value of Training

Corley recounts the challenges and triumphs in shifting from complacency to a culture of excellence—and how training became the cornerstone.

25:50 – 33:03 | Leadership Journey & Writing Process

Corley discusses his passion for leadership, the origins of his “Nine L’s,” and how laying tile taught him to write books.

33:04 – 37:11 | First Fire & Lessons Learned

Corley recalls his first real fire, the adrenaline, the mistakes, and the lessons about preparedness and training.

37:12 – 44:00 | Promotions, Growth, and Self-Assessment

Reflections on career transitions—from firefighter to driver, to company officer, and eventually to BC—plus what skills matter at each step.

44:01 – 59:28 | Leadership Standards & Culture Creation

Deep dive into setting expectations, accountability, and servant leadership—plus the challenge of promoting healthy firehouse culture.

59:29 – End | Staying Engaged, Building Impact, and Final Reflections

How high-performing leaders stay motivated, the role of conferences, and why expectations at the top determine performance at the bottom.

Resources & References:

Corley Moore’s Work:

• Firehouse Vigilance Website
• The Nine L’s of Leadership – Book
• Weekly Scrap Podcast: Interviews with fire service leaders
• 
  

About the Guest – Chief Corley Moore:

Chief Corley Moore is a retired battalion chief from the Moore Fire Department in Oklahoma, with over 28 years of service. He is the founder of Firehouse Vigilance, host of the Weekly Scrap podcast, and author of The Nine L’s of Leadership. His mission is to fight complacency and raise the standard of fire service culture through training, accountability, and meaningful leadership.

In this episode, we welcome Chief Corley Moore, retired battalion chief, author, podcaster, and the mind behind Firehouse Vigilance. Known for his thought leadership in fire service culture, leadership development, and his popular “Weekly Scrap” podcast, Corley shares his personal journey from a young father working dead-end jobs to becoming a leader and voice in the fire service.

This episode is packed with relatable stories, valuable leadership principles, reflections on organizational culture, and a deep dive into the importance of training, humility, and continual growth within the fire service.

0:00 – 1:04 | Introduction & Guest Welcome

Introduction to Chief Corley Moore, his background, and work with Firehouse Vigilance.

1:05 – 3:37 | Wheel of Stupid Questions

Corley reveals his nerdy side, including his love for sci-fi, D&D, and 80s fantasy trivia.

3:38 – 10:48 | Corley’s Firefighting Origin Story

From marrying young and raising three kids by 23 to joining the fire service by chance, Corley shares how he found his calling.

10:49 – 18:28 | Early Career & Moore FD Culture

What the Moore FD was like in the late ‘90s, from frat-house vibes to a lack of training, and the slow shift toward professionalism.

18:29 – 25:49 | The Culture Shift & Value of Training

Corley recounts the challenges and triumphs in shifting from complacency to a culture of excellence—and how training became the cornerstone.

25:50 – 33:03 | Leadership Journey & Writing Process

Corley discusses his passion for leadership, the origins of his “Nine L’s,” and how laying tile taught him to write books.

33:04 – 37:11 | First Fire & Lessons Learned

Corley recalls his first real fire, the adrenaline, the mistakes, and the lessons about preparedness and training.

37:12 – 44:00 | Promotions, Growth, and Self-Assessment

Reflections on career transitions—from firefighter to driver, to company officer, and eventually to BC—plus what skills matter at each step.

44:01 – 59:28 | Leadership Standards & Culture Creation

Deep dive into setting expectations, accountability, and servant leadership—plus the challenge of promoting healthy firehouse culture.

59:29 – End | Staying Engaged, Building Impact, and Final Reflections

How high-performing leaders stay motivated, the role of conferences, and why expectations at the top determine performance at the bottom.

Corley Moore’s Work:

• Firehouse Vigilance Website
• The Nine L’s of Leadership – Book
• Weekly Scrap Podcast: Interviews with fire service leaders
• 
  

Chief Corley Moore is a retired battalion chief from the Moore Fire Department in Oklahoma, with over 28 years of service. He is the founder of Firehouse Vigilance, host of the Weekly Scrap podcast, and author of The Nine L’s of Leadership. His mission is to fight complacency and raise the standard of fire service culture through training, accountability, and meaningful leadership.

Jake sits down with Josh Shores, a Marine Infantry Combat Veteran, Purple Heart recipient, retired firefighter, and author of the raw and gripping memoir "Counting on Death." Together, they explore Josh's harrowing experiences during the Iraq War, his emotional return to civilian life, his time in the fire service, and his long journey through trauma, identity, and healing.

Segment Breakdown & Timestamps:

0:00 – 1:31 | Introduction & Guest Welcome

Introduction to the podcast and guest Josh Shores, highlighting his military service and new book Counting on Death.

1:32 – 5:49 | Writing Through Trauma

Josh discusses how the book started as cognitive therapy and eventually became a published work despite pushback for its raw content.

5:50 – 8:50 | Writing for Self vs. Audience

The discussion explores how writing for himself allowed Josh to dig deeper emotionally and share more honestly.

8:51 – 12:51 | Counting on Death & Mental Weight of War

Josh expands on a haunting line from the book and explains how unclear missions and moral ambiguity left deeper scars than combat itself.

12:52 – 15:08 | Who Should Read This Book?

Josh articulates the book’s purpose: as a tool for veterans and first responders to help others understand what they can’t say aloud.

15:09 – 19:51 | Humor, Irony, and the Bonds of War

A humorous anecdote about a malfunctioning rifle leads into a broader reflection on the camaraderie and absurdity found in war.

19:52 – 23:08 | From Warfighter to Firefighter

Josh shares his transition to the fire service, drawing parallels between combat and firefighting, and the eventual emotional and physical toll.

23:09 – 26:39 | Injury, Advocacy & Departure from the Fire Service

A serious injury and lack of institutional support led Josh to leave the fire service. He reflects on loss of identity and resilience.

26:40 – 29:33 | Judgment & Misconceptions

The hosts reflect on how people misunderstand mental health struggles and the fire service’s rumor mill.

29:34 – 36:06 | Mental Health in High-Stress Careers

A candid conversation on therapy, the compounding stress of first responder life, and the generational shift toward addressing mental health.

36:07 – 44:40 | Parenting, Perspective, and the Fragility of Life

Josh reflects on fatherhood, the importance of patience with children, and how his exposure to death reshapes his everyday decisions as a parent.

44:41 – End | Final Reflections & Where to Find the Book

Josh shares the core hope behind his book: helping others understand the mental toll of trauma and how to open conversations around it.

Resources & References:

Counting on Death: A Marine Infantryman’s Journey from the Frontlines of Combat to the Fight for Peace

• Available on:
• Amazon
• Barnes & Noble
• Audible
• Casemate Publishers
• Podcast Mentioned:
• Nomadic Research Podcast with Dagan Van Oosten – an in-depth discussion on the book and Josh’s experiences.

About the Guest – Josh Shores:

Josh Shores is a Marine Corps infantry veteran with combat deployments to Ramadi, Iraq, and Afghanistan. After military service, he became a firefighter, only to later leave due to a debilitating injury and the emotional toll of accumulated trauma. His memoir Counting on Death is a candid, unfiltered look at war, loss, healing, and resilience.

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