In this week's episode of Life After The Fire, Chris Phelps is joined by retired Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Captain, Larry Doelling. Larry was a late bloomer in the fire service, joining at 31 years old. Prior to his career as a firefighter, Larry spent time in the Army Reserve and the Air Force. 

While in the fire service, Larry displayed a reverence toward mental health and spent a number of years as a leader on the CISM team helping his colleagues better manage the stressors that inevitably come with the occupation. Chris and Larry dive into a deeper discussion of mental health with Larry highlighting some of the ways he would encourage the current generation of fire fighters to maintain their mental health while on the job. Additionally, encouraging retired firefighters to stay connected to those they served alongside during their careers. 

This episode focuses heavily on the importance of mental health, not only for current firefighters, but also for those who have moved into their life after the fire service. Chris and Larry discuss resources departments provided to combat mental health struggles and encourage anyone who is considering mental health treatment to take the action steps necessary to ensure that they live a healthy life both during and after their careers have come to a close. 

Thank you to all of those for watching, if you know of someone who you believe should be highlighted on the Life After The Fire Podcast or have topics you would like to see discussed, reach out to [email protected]. 

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In the episode of Chris sits down with Fire Captain Andrew Gionta. Andrew outlines his career in the fire department and shares about how he got his start in the real-estate industry.

In the 17th episode of Life After The Fire, Chris welcomes Bill Banks from FIRE TEC, Inc..

FIRE TEC, Inc, based in Margate, Florida, is a leading provider of fire protection services and equipment, dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of businesses and properties. With a strong focus on quality and reliability, FIRE TEC offers comprehensive solutions, including fire alarm systems, sprinkler installations, and fire extinguisher maintenance. Their team of experienced professionals is committed to delivering exceptional customer service, while adhering to the latest industry standards and regulations. By prioritizing safety and staying up-to-date with advancements in fire protection technology, FIRE TEC, Inc continues to play a crucial role in safeguarding communities and promoting a culture of preparedness.

If you’re interested in learning more or pursuing a career with FIRE TEC you can find them at FireTec.com. 

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In this episode of Life After The Fire, Chris welcomes Adam Church to the show to discuss Coastal Fire Training. 

Coastal Fire Training is a company that focuses on training firefighters on respectful entry techniques that help protect property when the situation allows. The company focuses primarily on in person, customized training sessions for fire departments but also offers education opportunities through methods such as blog posts and podcasts. 

In addition to training, the Coastal Fire Training site provides visitors the opportunity to purchase all the equipment they would need in order to implement respectful entry techniques. Products range from full kits, individual respectful entry tools, and prop locks. 

Adam also details how his role with Coastal Fire Training has provided him with the ability to not only generate additional revenue while in the fire service but also grow a business that can set him up for success after he retires from his current role. 

If you’re interested in learning more about Coastal Fire Trainings services or on how to become involved as an instructor you can learn more at CoastalFireTraining.com.

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After generating a number of questions from listeners, Chris welcomes Rickey Rodriquez back to the Life After The Fire podcast to take a deeper dive into his real estate investment journey.

In the episode, Rickey outlines how he got his start in the industry, his portfolio growth over the years, as well as strategies for acquiring new properties. Rickey also briefly highlights his real estate investment group that meets out of Port Saint Lucie, Florida and encourages anyone in the area to join. 

Rickey’s story of educating himself and building a substantial real estate portfolio is one that should inspire anyone looking to make their way into the industry as they look to build a rich and fulfilling Life After The Fire. 

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In this episode of our Life After The Fire, Chris sits down with fellow retired firefighter Steve Campana. In this powerful episode, Steve opens up about his past struggles with addiction and the impact on his career and family. 

As Steve details his past history, he highlights the importance of having a structured program like AA has played in his sobriety, the disdain he felt from some of his coworkers after completing his rehab, and the positive impact that sobriety has had on his life. 

In this inspiring episode, Steven demonstrates the power of perseverance and determination in overcoming addiction, even in the face of challenging circumstances. Steve’s story serves as both an example and an inspiration for anyone struggling with substance abuse in the fire service. 

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In this episode of Life After The Fire, Chris sits down with Captain Mike Zingaro, a firefighter who, on his off days, has a second career as a real estate agent. Mike talks about the learning curve he faced in making the transition from fighting fires to selling houses as well as how his firefighting skills has prepared him for his new career.

Mike shares with Chris and listeners the path he took to get into real estate, some of the mentors he has had along the way, and how the second career has prepared him for his future transition into retirement.

As with many of the show's other guests, Mike emphasizes the need for firefighters to have a plan for their lives after retirement and how pursuing a new career can help with that transition.

Overall, Mike’s story is a reminder that firefighters are more than just their jobs and have the potential to excel in many different fields. He also inspires listeners to pursue their passions and explore new career paths, even after retirement.

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In this week's episode of Life After The Fire Chris sits down with Dave Markle of SHOOT-DA-GATOR OUTFITTERS GUIDE SERVICES. After briefly recounting their past histories in the fire service, Dave discusses his current project which he is building out during his final few years in the fire service. 

Dave runs a guide service out of Florida that specializes in offering guests a once in a lifetime experience on both land and sea. Dave runs fishing trips on his charter fishing boat located in Palm Beach County. For those not as interested in an “on the water” experience, Dave also offers guided trips in central Florida where guests can hunt game such as wild boar, turkey, and deer. While there are no guarantees in the industry, Dave has enough experience in the area to ensure that guests have the best chance of an unforgettable experience. 

If you’re interested in learning more you can find Dave at: https://shoot-da-gator.com 

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In this episode of Life After The Fire, Chris sits down with retired battalion chief Steve Neible. Chris and Steve’s career paths merged when they both served as volunteer firefighters in the Nashville, Tennessee area after they both served long careers in the fire service.

After spending 25 years with the fire service in Illinois, Steve retired and made the move to Tennessee. As with many firefighters, during his time in the service Steve operated a lawn care business to generate additional income on the side prior to growing his family. After having his second child, Steve chose to take the family route and spend extra time with his kids during his days off. 

In his post fire career life, Steve and his wife are enjoying retirement without the need to work thanks to their combined pensions. Smart financial planning and living within their means during their careers allowed both of them to retire with peace of mind in the life after the fire. This podcast is great for anyone looking to retire off of their pension and learn how to set themselves up financially to live within their means. 

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You can also visit us at LATFPodcasts.com to stay up to date with each episode. 

In this episode of Life After The Fire, Chris sits down with long-time friend and fellow retired firefighter Jimm Walsh. Jimm's story is truly an inspiration and a testament to his resilience. Chris and Jimm spend a portion of the podcast discussing their history and Jimm’s influence in the conception of the Life After The Fire podcast. The majority of the time, however, is focused on Jimm’s recount of the tragic stroke that prematurely ended his career.  

While Jimm’s recovery has been incredible, he did find himself somewhat unprepared for the next chapter of his following his time in the fire service. This led to a desire to raise awareness to others in the field to ensure that they have the means to live a comfortable life and take advantage of all the opportunities the career provides for their life after the fire.

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