Jeremy sits down with Assistant Chief Chris Grande and Captain Tommy Grande of the East Brunswick, NJ Fire Department for the July 2024 @FireandSafetyNJ featured segment, Behind the Department. This series focuses on the department that built their 2023 Pierce Enforcer pumper, Engine 805. A big part of understanding the apparatus builds is understanding the department and how they operate. So many factors go into the design and operations of a new apparatus. Looking at the final build is always easier to understand when you know why they built what they did. This conversation talks about the department, their membership, history and legacy as well as the future of the department.

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For more information on this build and the others in the 2024 Calendar project, go to www.f-ss.com or visit our YouTube channel.

In this episode, Pip interviews Jordan from Flip Flop Firefighter, a firefighter-owned apparel business. They discuss Jordan's journey as a firefighter and how he started his own business. They also talk about the importance of off-duty bonding and mental health in the fire service. The conversation touches on topics such as the different phases of t-shirt wearing as a firefighter, the challenges of being off-duty, and the need for stress relief. They also share personal stories of responding to emergencies and the importance of self-reflection in the fire service. Jordan, the Flip Flop Firefighter, discusses the different designs and themes of his apparel business. He talks about the inspiration behind each design, such as catching sunsets and golfing, and how he collaborates with his graphic designer to bring his vision to life. Jordan also shares his approach to running the business, including engaging with customers and hosting giveaways. He emphasizes the importance of balancing work and family life and the challenges of transitioning from being a firefighter to a business owner. Jordan emphasizes the importance of dedicating time to family and the growing years, while also pursuing his passion for entrepreneurship. He shares his experiences of working with an amazing crew and the camaraderie they have. Jordan also discusses his plans for expanding his business and creating new designs. Overall, the conversation highlights the dedication, hard work, and passion that Jordan brings to both his firefighting career and his business. Causing you to ask yourself the question. What’s My Size Up??? Because, what you do off the job, MATTERS!!!

Top Floor Tactics Episode 36. Street Talk by Jeremy Donch

Born in England, moved to Los Angeles, jumps across the country to New Hampshire, Adam Mills has quite the story to tell. Arriving in the US at the age of 7, he found the fire service early on with an explorer post in Los Angeles. This fueled his passion for the emergency services which soon lead him to the California Department of Forestry and then a stint as a Medic in Inglewood / South Central LA. A wide variety of services, his exposure to the job was from all angles. From there, he traveled across the country where he is currently a career firefighter with the Hampton, NH Fire Department. His early exposure to training has lead him down a passionate path of learning and instructing. His all in attitude and passion for the job is evident each time he's spreading the good word. Liker most of us, finding balance has always been a thing for Adam. His all in attitude fuels his desire to learn and to help educate up and coming firefighters. But this comes with a learning curve. Juggling the balance of not just his fueled passion for the job, but finding the way to deliver the message that is well received by others is a daunting task at times. Resistance is real in the fire service and young, ambitious go-getters sometimes have to manage the delivery of exciting information with the lackluster care of many in the job. This approach comes with experience and time and Adam knows all to well about how to work with all levels of the job. Outside of the firehouse and instructing for academies and training conferences, he has become a part of the FAST Rescue Solutions "TRIBE", a close knit group of rockstars who are changing the way firefighter safety and survival is understood in the fire service. Spreading the message with authenticity and charm, Adam Milld has everything in front of him and he is not slowing down any time soon.

Sean Eagen is a Captain with the Buffalo, NY Fire Department. He has been on the podcast multiple times with Jeremy and always has insights and knowledge to share. This catch up session between the two talks alot about the mentoring process. A firm believer that each position takes a minimum of three years to get proficient at it, Sean appreciates the the process and how it shapes careers. Working with young firefighters in a mentorship position, you must go all in to understand and learn your people. Mentorship is a two way street and it requires work, alot of work. But Sean shares his style of teaching and how he works with his firefighters, other companies and bosses. The conversation rounds out with a discussion about his newest passion, brewing beer. At 50 years old, he is excited to learn this new craft and finds value in furthering his education and learning, just like in the fire service.

In this conversation, Pip interviews Shay Mountford from Blaze of Glory Fitness. They discuss Shay's journey from being a nanny to becoming a firefighter and the challenges they faced along the way. Shay shares their experience of going through the hiring process and the importance of physical fitness and preparation for the fire academy. Shay also talks about the mentorship aspect of Blaze of Glory Fitness and how it helps aspiring firefighters not only with physical training but also with interview preparation and understanding the culture of the fire service. Shay emphasizes the need for firefighters to stay in shape and maintain a healthy lifestyle to perform their duties effectively. Shay also shares their experience in the fire service and offers advice for aspiring firefighters. They highlight the importance of humility, hard work, and effective communication in the fire service. Shay also talks about the challenges and rewards of being a firefighter and the impact it has on one's life. Causing you to ask yourself the question. What’s My Size Up??? Because, what you do off the job, MATTERS!!!

Top Floor Tactics Ep. 35 Mike Smith Engine Co. 48 FDNY - The Engine Company by Jeremy Donch

"Bless your heart" is a southern way of saying so many things in one quick phrase. Joey Petruccelli, a transplant from NJ to Richmond,VA, loves being an inner city fireman. His NJ charm sometimes gets in the way of his drive and hustle but he doesnt apologize for who he is. Like the southerns, "bless your heart" is a kinder, gentler way than the rough and tough jersey. Joey knows this and it's his style of southern charm. A true love of the job and a student who takes any opportunity to learn, he holds the job in the highest regard an fiercely protects the core principles of the fire service. "Crawl, walk, run" is Joey's belief when it comes to training. Working with new recruits, he knows the value of teaching the right way - no short cuts and hard work and dedication. Joey approach is in your face and real - he acknowledges this and will not shy away from telling you the way it is which is kind of refreshing these days. This blue collar, dirty and tough job needs to be protected by those that are all in. Joey Petruccelli is all in.

In this episode, Pip interviews Brandon from Fire to Light, discussing various topics related to the fire service, personal experiences, and the challenges faced by firefighters. The conversation covers themes such as personal appearance in the fire service, the psychological side of the job, wildland firefighting, and the importance of life experiences in job interviews. It delves into the importance of storytelling in interviews, the impact of traumatic experiences, and the need for mental health support within the fire service. The conversation also explores the role of leadership in addressing mental health issues and the significance of vulnerability and storytelling in fostering a supportive environment. It delves into the importance of storytelling, meditation, and breathwork in managing stress and trauma. The guest shares insights on the culture shift within the fire service and the impact of personal experiences on professional development. Causing you to ask yourself the question. What’s My Size Up??? Because, what you do off the job, MATTERS!!!!

Top Floor Tactics Episode 34. Street Talk by Jeremy Donch