In this episode, Rob explores the importance of stepping away from work and truly unplugging—especially for those in high-stress professions like firefighting. Sharing personal insights from a recent vacation with his wife, he reflects on the mental reset, renewed perspective, and stress relief that come from taking a break. Rob emphasizes the value of setting boundaries with coworkers, trusting your team, and making self-care a priority. He also offers practical tips for disconnecting, recharging, and incorporating meaningful downtime into a demanding career.

In this episode, Pip discusses the importance of what we do off the job with guest Dave Dunn Jr., a firefighter and cosplayer. They explore Dave's journey in emergency services, the adrenaline rush of firefighting, and how cosplay serves as an escape from reality. The conversation highlights the community and connections formed through shared interests in cosplay and strongman competitions, emphasizing the need for balance and mental health in high-stress professions. Pip and Dave Dunn explore the intricacies of competition nerves, the importance of attention to detail in cosplay, and the mental challenges faced in emergency services. They discuss the significance of shared interests in relationships, upcoming conventions, and the role of social media in building community. The dialogue culminates in rapid-fire questions that reveal personal insights and preferences, emphasizing the importance of personal growth and connection beyond the job. Because, what you do off the job, MATTERS!!!!

Another Street Talk, this time from Penn 6 in Midtown Manhattan. This one dives into operating in exposure buildings, when and when not to call a Mayday, and the importance of sizing up on the fly. I also discuss what happens when the dominoes start falling the wrong way and how the tempo of a fire can drastically shift from building to building.

For further information on the March 17 fundraiser at the Bergen County fire Academy, please go to the national firefighter training foundation.

https://www.nfftf.org/event-details-registration/abbie-beats-leukemia-firefighter-seminar

On this episode of Frontline Mindset, Rob interviews Captain Zach Polvino from the

Snyder Fire Department. They dive into leadership, training, and core engine company

competencies. Zach discusses the challenges of recruitment and retention in both fire

and EMS, the importance of making EMS an essential service in New York, and the

need for mental health awareness in emergency services. He shares personal

experiences, insights on balancing life outside the firehouse, and the responsibility of

preparing the next generation.

In this episode, Pip and Justin DeMoss explore the themes of joy, personal

growth, and the unique experiences of wildland firefighting. They discuss the

importance of sunlight and nature in maintaining mental health, the journey of

finding purpose in one's career, and the challenges faced in extreme

conditions. Justin shares his transition from sports to wildland firefighting,

emphasizing the need for optimization in performance and the joy found in the

profession. In this conversation, Pip and Justin DeMoss explore the critical

importance of sleep health, the value of experiences in EMS, and the journey

towards finding purpose through service. They discuss the significance of

sleep as a foundational element for mental and physical health, share insights

from their experiences and emphasize the need for community service and

personal growth. Justin introduces the Hot Shot Wellness initiative, aimed at

addressing health and wellness for wildland firefighters, showcasing the

collaborative efforts of various experts in the field. Because, what you do off

the job MATTERS!!!

Chapter 68. Street Talk, View From the Top Floor Podcast by Jeremy Donch

On this episode of Frontline Mindset, Rob interviews Captain Zach Polvino from the

Snyder Fire Department. They dive into leadership, training, and core engine company

competencies. Zach discusses the challenges of recruitment and retention in both fire

and EMS, the importance of making EMS an essential service in New York, and the

need for mental health awareness in emergency services. He shares personal

experiences, insights on balancing life outside the firehouse, and the responsibility of

preparing the next generation.

In this episode, Pip shares his exhilarating experience at the World's

Strongest Firefighter competition, highlighting the camaraderie and diverse

body types within the firefighting community. He emphasizes the importance

of networking and learning from others in the field, especially at conferences.

Chris Naff shares his journey in the firefighting profession, detailing his

experiences and the evolution of the St. John's Fire Rescue department. He

discusses the importance of training new recruits, the role of a Public

Information Officer in community engagement, and the impact of social media

on recruitment and public perception. Additionally, Chris emphasizes the

significance of fitness in firefighting, particularly through rucking, and how it

contributes to the overall well-being of firefighters.He discusses how rucking

has not only improved his physical health but also connected him with his

community. The dialogue explores the significance of building relationships

outside of work, the lessons learned through various challenges, and the

value of continuous personal growth. Chris emphasizes the importance of

finding a supportive community and the joy of participating in fitness activities

that foster camaraderie and connection. Because, What you do off the job,

MATTERS!!!

Chapter 67. St Patricks Day - View From the Top Floor Podcast by Jeremy Donch

In this conversation, Jeremy discusses the importance of bridging generational gaps within the fire service. He emphasizes the need for respect, honor, and integrity in firehouses, drawing from his own experiences growing up in a firehouse environment. He advocates for a culture that values the contributions of past generations while preparing future firefighters to appreciate the legacy of their predecessors.