Mickey sits down with Etan Blatt from the 34.3 Foundation — an organization built on honoring sacrifice, restoring pride, and giving new life to firefighters who may feel lost. The conversation dives into the rebirth the Foundation offers for those searching for purpose, while also showing the newest members of the FDNY what it truly means to be a New York City firefighter. 

They talk about patriotism through the lens of September 12 — the day after, when resilience and brotherhood defined the job — and how those lessons still carry weight today. Etan and Mickey also break down the 34.3 Foundation Run: the powerful tradition of running from Long Beach to the Trade Center on September 11, as well as the new 3.43-mile run in Long Beach — both uniting the community, raising support, and keeping the spirit alive.

This episode is about tradition, rebirth, and the responsibility we all carry to keep the standard alive.

Jeremy and Deputy Chief Thomas Wieczerak walk around Rescue Co. 8 at Newark Liberty International Airport. This apparatus was a new concept and build for the Port Authority of Ny & NJ. Operating as a structural engine and outfitted for rescue operations, Rescue Co. 8 has been a welcomed addition to the fleet on the airfield.

For more information, check out the From Framerails to Finish film series featuring this Pierce Rescue from  @FireandSafetyNJ  .

Jeremy and Mickey sit down together on the porch where the conversation revolves around the concept of firefighter IQ and the importance of deep understanding and thinking in the fire service. They discuss the need for firefighters to go beyond just performing repetitive tasks and instead focus on developing a deeper understanding of the job. They emphasize the value of lectures and learning from experienced firefighters, as well as the importance of analyzing fire videos and using social media as a tool for education. The guys also discuss the significance of work ethic, attention to detail, and letting your tools do the talking.

"Go get the jug" refers to a container that holds rope and it's used to measure the stretch or ladder throws when taking time to walk the neighborhood. The saying has a rooted meaning that the opportunity for training can be as simple as walking the neighborhood with a piece of rope and we can capitalize on making the company better. Rich Stack, currently a Deputy District Chief and the Assistant Director of Training for the Chicago Fire Department knows the importance of simple drills. Finding time for training is important to Rich. His passion for protecting the core values of the Chicago Fire Department is strong, but, admittedly, the need for change in some regards presents issues when trying to implement. Rich talks about the recent General Order that came out which was widely discussed across the fire service. He discusses the implementation of these changes and how it continues to be a work in progress. Rich is excited to get back to the firehouse, back to the rank of Captain as his tenure at the academy comes to a close. His love of the job is evident in everything he does and his impact can be felt not just in the Chicagoland, but nationally. He works with On-Scene Training and his own company, Duty Pride Tradition Training. Even with over 25 years in the fire service, Rich continues to grow into the job while bringing those around him along for the ride. His humor and love of life is infectious and I'm honored to call him a friend. 

In this engaging conversation, Battalion Chief Brian Bastinelli takes us through his fire service journey — from early influences to mastering the fundamentals that build a strong career. He shares how mental preparation, mentorship, and a commitment to the basics shaped his path from firefighter to leader. Brian discusses the challenges and rewards of leadership, the power of using video for self-improvement, and the importance of clear communication and decisive action in high-pressure situations. Whether you’re a new recruit or a seasoned officer, his experiences offer valuable lessons on growth, resilience, and leadership in the fire service.

Jeremy is joined by Captain Johnson and Senior Firefighter Hidalgo for some front bumper chatter during our filming of "From Framerails to Finish", a joint film project with  @FireandSafetyNJ  .

This week’s episode, Bob Pressler joins Mickey once again to break down his 1997 Fire Engineering article, “ROOF OPERATIONS: LIGHTWEIGHT TRUSSES AND VARIATIONS.” It’s a topic that’s been debated for years, often misunderstood, and still causes confusion today. Bob clears it up the way only he can — direct, detailed, and from experience.

Jeremy is joined by Captain William Johnson, Jr and Probationary Firefighter Ivan Quiles of Engine Co. 8 ss they sit around the cigar table in quarters. There is a tremendous amount of history and storytelling that has happened around this table. Grateful for the opportunity.

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Engine Co. 8 was featured in the  @FireandSafetyNJ  film series, From Framerails to Finish.

Another street talk, this time from Roamary’s Cafe in the West Village of Manhattan, where Mickey discusses the critical role of outside vent (OV) firefighters in coordinated attacks during firefighting operations. Emphasizing the importance of timing and the PRIMARY mission of searching for life, the conversation explores how OV firefighters should adapt their strategies based on real-time conditions rather than strictly adhering to textbook methods. Mickey shares personal rules and insights gained from experience, highlighting the need for flexibility and situational awareness in high-pressure environments.