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In this episode, Eric Haskins shares his unique journey from a professional snowboarder to a dedicated firefighter. He discusses the importance of mentorship, the transformative experience of the Smoke Divers program, and the value of building confidence through adversity. The conversation emphasizes the significance of leading by example, embracing failure as a learning opportunity, and mastering the basics to achieve professionalism in the fire service.

Eric Haskins is a Senior Firefighter and Acting Captain with Nampa Fire, Idaho’s first Georgia Smoke Diver, and founder of Firehouse Strength & Conditioning. A former U.S. Project Gold snowboarder and Boise State hockey captain, he’s now a leading voice in firefighter fitness, co-creator of the Firefighter Physical Fitness Test, and host of the Firehouse S&C Podcast.

follow Eric on instagram @firehouse_sc

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"No one is built different; the real difference comes down to the daily decisions we make. Talent isn’t the key. Discipline, choice, and consistent action are. This podcast is about helping you make better decisions that change your life."

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In this engaging conversation, Chief Frank Malta discusses the importance of physical fitness, leadership, and mentorship within the fire service. He reflects on his personal journey, the evolution of training standards, and the critical role of setting a positive example for new recruits. Our conversation emphasizes the need for continuous personal growth, accountability, and the impact of fitness on mental resilience, ultimately inspiring a culture of excellence in the fire department.

Frank Malta is a 25 year member of the fire service, and is a Battalion Chief in the Frederick County (MD) Division of Fire and Rescue Services. Frank is a Maryland State Rescue Instructor as well as a member of the Combat Ready Fire Training team. Frank is the Chief of Frederick County’s Training Academy and as part of his duties oversees one of, if not the hardest, fire academies in the State of Maryland, where teamwork, attention to detail, and a refusal to quit are the foundational principles to building highly motivated, smartly disciplined, and basically trained firefighters.

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In this episode, I discuss the realities of becoming a firefighter, emphasizing the importance of understanding the profession's demands. The conversation covers the foundational elements necessary for success, including physical fitness, mental resilience, and proper nutrition. I stress the expectations placed on firefighters and the need for thorough preparation to meet those expectations. Ultimately, the episode serves as a guide for aspiring firefighters to assess their readiness and commitment to the profession.

IF YOUR'E NOT READY MESSAGE ME ON INSTAGRAM "READY" AND LETS CHANGE THAT. 

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In this episode, Chief Jay Hurley shares his experiences and insights from over 25 years in the fire service, emphasizing the importance of mastering basic skills, maintaining physical fitness, and the role of mentorship. He reflects on his journey through the Georgia Flames and Smoke Diver programs, the legacy of Chief Mo Baxter, and the evolving culture of firefighting. The conversation highlights the significance of personal endeavor over the pursuit of success and the obligation firefighters have to mentor and support one another.

Jay Hurley is a 25-year fire service veteran and the current Fire Chief of a suburban department in Georgia. A lifelong student of the job, Jay has completed extensive advanced training, including Firefighters Laboring and Mastering Essential Skills (F.L.A.M.E.S.), the Georgia Smoke Diver Program, and the North Carolina Breathing Equipment School.

He is an active member of several professional organizations, including the Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs, and serves as Task Force Leader for Georgia Search and Rescue Task Force 6 in Northwest Georgia.

Since 2017, Jay has been an FDIC HOT Instructor, as well as a lead instructor at the Metro Atlanta Firefighter’s Conference. In addition, he regularly contributes to fire service blogs and online publications, sharing knowledge and experience with the broader firefighting community.

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In this episode of the Prepared by Fire podcast I engage with Carlos, a seasoned firefighter, discussing the importance of authenticity, community, and mental health in the fire service. We explore the challenges of navigating criticism, the significance of mentorship, and the need for continuous learning and personal growth. Carlos shares his insights on leadership, the power of humility, and the importance of setting long-term goals. The conversation emphasizes the duty to help others and the necessity of self-care in a demanding profession.

Carlos Martinez is a 23-year Fire Service veteran and Rescue Lieutenant in the Miami-Dade area. He began his career in 2001 as a U.S. Air Force firefighter after 9/11, later deploying to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Carlos has served at military installations across the Middle East, Europe, and the Southern Caribbean, and has been educating Emergency Medicine and Paramedic students since 2014. 

Carlos owns and operates eCerts Now Inc. (www.eCertsNow.com), he provides educational services to first responders, fire service professionals, and the public.

Contact: [email protected]

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In this episode with Scott Chappell we discuss his journey in the fire service, the importance of leadership, structure, and personal development. Highlighted are the challenges and lessons learned from the Smoke Diver program, the significance of teamwork, and the need for continuous self-assessment in one's career. Scott shares insights on how to navigate the complexities of leadership while maintaining humility and the value of asking questions. The conversation emphasizes that the fire service is just one chapter in a person's life, and it's essential to embrace growth and change.

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In this episode of the Prepared to Fight Fire podcast, Nic Pluskota & I discuss their experiences in the fire service, focusing on the importance of training programs like Georgia Flames. They explore the mental and physical challenges faced during training, the significance of mindset and effort, and the role of mentorship in overcoming complacency. The conversation also touches on the impact of social media on the fire service and the necessity of continuous improvement through basic skills and attention to detail.

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In this episode of the Prepare to Fire podcast, Stephanie White and i discuss the complexities of mental health within the fire service, the importance of mentorship, and the evolving culture of firefighting. 

They explore the challenges of leadership, the impact of social media, and the necessity of creating a supportive environment for all firefighters.

The conversation emphasizes personal growth, the balance between old and new school values, and the significance of sharing experiences to foster change in the fire service.

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In this episode of the Prepared to Fight Fire podcast, Tony Gillan and i discuss the warrior mindset, the journey of recovery from a severe injury, and the importance of leadership in the fire service. We explore how mentorship and a positive mindset can inspire others, even in the face of adversity. The conversation emphasizes the need for accountability and empowerment in leadership roles, highlighting the significance of believing in oneself and others to foster growth and resilience.