In this episode of Frontline Mindset, host Rob interviews Joe Gangler, founder of Side Charlie Tools, to discuss his journey in the fire service and the creation of innovative forcible entry tools. Joe shares insights into the design, functionality, and real-world success of tools like the aluminum wedge and Heritage Bar, emphasizing their role in improving firefighting techniques.

The conversation delves into the importance of training and understanding tool geometry, avoiding common mistakes, and troubleshooting door entry challenges in high-pressure situations. Joe highlights the mindset required for effective forcible entry and the critical role of communication during emergencies.

Additionally, Joe offers a behind-the-scenes look at running a firefighter-owned business, discussing the family dynamics, the passion and commitment needed to start a company, and the value of customer service and community engagement in building trust within the fire service.

In this episode of the Size Up podcast, Pip interviews Val Perez, a firefighter and manager of the Firefighters baseball team in the Savannah Bananas league. They discuss Val's journey from a young athlete competing with her brothers to her decision to become a firefighter, driven by a desire to serve her community. Val shares her experiences in both sports and emergency services, emphasizing the importance of teamwork, personal growth, and supporting colleagues in challenging times. The conversation highlights the unique blend of Val's passions for baseball and firefighting, showcasing how they intersect in her life. In this conversation, Val and Pip discuss the importance of open conversations about mental health within the firefighting community. They emphasize the need for supportive environments and leadership to help firefighters cope with the challenges they face. The discussion transitions into Val's journey from firefighting to playing baseball at a competitive level, culminating in her involvement with Banana Ball, a unique and entertaining version of baseball that combines showmanship with real competition. Val shares humorous anecdotes from her life as a firefighter and a member of the Savannah Bananas baseball team. She discusses the unique intersection of her two passions, the importance of community connections, and the inspiring stories she encounters at games. Val emphasizes the significance of kindness and the impact of social media in building relationships, while also encouraging the next generation of female firefighters and young baseball players. The conversation culminates in valuable life lessons about the journey and the importance of treating others well along the way. Because, What you do off the job, MATTERS!!!

In this episode, Mickey breaks down a short clip of his class Truck Intellect, which he will be presenting at FDIC this year. This classbeaks down the X’s and O’s of firefighting—when to follow the plan, when to adjust, and how to recognize the moment that demands a shift. It also breaks down the thought process behind effective truck work, focusing on real-time decision-making and tactical awareness when conditions change.

In this episode of Frontline Mindset, host Rob interviews David Woodward, founder of One Warrior LLC, to explore his mission of empowering firefighters through personal responsibility, leadership, and community building. They discuss the creation of a fire conference aimed at fostering brotherhood among firefighters, the challenges of organizing such events, and the critical role of hands-on training in saving lives.

David shares the traits that define the "One Warrior" and how these qualities can be cultivated within the fire service. The conversation delves into the evolution of hands-on training, the importance of real-world application, and the role of building strong relationships through shared experiences.

Rob and David also tackle the daily choices that shape a firefighter's mindset, emphasizing the One Warrior Mindset's focus on mental health, leadership's influence on well-being, and creating a supportive firehouse environment. The episode underscores the importance of kindness, integrity, and personal growth in navigating the unique challenges of the fire service.

390. Bridging the Gap - Delaware State Fire School by Jeremy Donch

In this episode Pip welcomes Rob Meyer from Ridgeway Leatherworks. They discuss the balance between running a business and serving in the fire department, the importance of sustainability in business practices, and the cultural shifts occurring within the fire service. Rob shares his journey in leather craftsmanship, the significance of storytelling and tradition in the fire service, and how he instills a maker attitude in his family. The conversation emphasizes the importance of customer relations and the philosophy of enjoying life while managing a business. Ridgeway Rob shares his journey in the leather community, highlighting his achievements and the validation he received from being featured in a trade magazine. He discusses the intersection of his leather crafting business with his passion for the fire service, emphasizing the importance of supporting fellow makers and embracing competition. The conversation also touches on the significance of visual storytelling in promoting his work, navigating social media controversies, and the importance of teaching respect and communication skills to the next generation of firefighters. In this conversation, Rob and Pip discuss the importance of training new firefighters, the passion that drives their commitment to the fire service, and the balance between running a business and serving the community. They share personal insights and life lessons, emphasizing the value of mentorship and surrounding oneself with knowledgeable individuals. The discussion culminates in advice for younger generations, focusing on listening, learning, and personal growth. Because, what you do off the job, MATTERS!!!

Top Floor Tactics Chapter 62. Safety Last by Jeremy Donch

In this episode of Frontline Mindset, host Rob interviews Jonah Smith, a seasoned battalion chief with extensive experience in firefighting and emergency response. Jonah shares his journey into the fire service, his leadership philosophy, and the unique challenges of aircraft firefighting at an airport. He highlights the importance of interagency collaboration, effective communication, and fostering a sense of belonging within fire departments.

The discussion explores leadership evolution, crisis management, and navigating difficult conversations. Jonah emphasizes realistic training scenarios, the Firefighter Rescue Survey's impact on improving practices, and the role of data-driven decisions in enhancing victim survival rates and operational effectiveness.

Jonah also introduces his company, Hornet Fire Training, dedicated to helping local fire departments improve their skills and mindset. He defines aggressive firefighting as disciplined risk management and underscores the importance of understanding context in training. Throughout the conversation, Jonah provides valuable insights and recommends resources for firefighters seeking to enhance their knowledge and capabilities.

In this episode of the Size of Podcast, Genna McMillan shares her journey into the fire service, the significance of mentorship, and the evolving nature of the profession. The conversation highlights the importance of language skills, the legacy of firefighting traditions, and the craft of learning from one another in the field. Genna and Pip discuss the importance of dispatchers in emergency services, the unique challenges of the Dopey Challenge at Disney World, and the mental resilience required for long-distance running. They explore the community aspect of running events, the impact of weather on race experiences, and strategies for pacing during multi-day races. The conversation highlights the camaraderie among runners and the significance of appreciating the journey, both in fitness and career paths. Pip and Genna explore the profound impact of fitness on mental resilience and career performance. They discuss the evolution of their fitness journeys, emphasizing the importance of finding personal motivation and balance in life. The conversation highlights the joy of celebrating achievements, such as earning medals in races, and the significance of community in fitness. They also touch on the importance of kindness and self-care, especially in the context of first responders and the challenges they face. Because, what you do off the job, MATTERS!!!

Chapter 61. Gen-X, View From the Top Floor Podcast by Jeremy Donch