Prepared To Fight Fire Podcast

In this conversation we discuss the importance of setting ambitious goals, overcoming fear of failure, and embracing the process of growth and learning. We also talk about the significance of consistency and enjoying the journey rather than focusing solely on the end result. John shares his experiences in the fire service and how he encourages his colleagues to prioritize health and fitness. The conversation emphasizes the importance of structure, fun, and humility in the pursuit of personal growth.

John Driscoll is a full time career firefighter in New Jersey and Hybrid Athlete. While being on the job for the last 5 years, he has done just about every fitness event or competition you can think of. From 100 milers and Ironmans to bodybuilding shows and powerlifting meets, John is always focused on testing his limits and improving in all aspects. A good quality to have in firefighting and in fitness.

In this podcast episode, Julian Serrano discusses his failures and the lessons he has learned from them. He emphasizes the importance of preparation and the need to be the best that you can be in the field of firefighting. Julian shares his personal experiences of failure, including failing out of fire school and struggling with studying for certifications.

Takeaways

• Failure is the greatest teacher and provides valuable lessons that success cannot.
• Preparation is crucial in the field of firefighting, both mentally and physically.
• Surrounding yourself with mentors and seeking their guidance is essential for growth and development.
• Focusing on fewer tasks and giving them 100% effort leads to excellence.
• Never quit and keep moving forward towards your goals.

Mickey Farrell is a Lieutenant in the New York City Fire Department, a third-generation firefighter with 29 years of experience, the last 23 years being with the FDNY. Also a team instructor at the New York City Fire Academy, founder and author of Top Floor Tactics, and host of A View From the Top Floor Podcast.

On this episode we dive into my origin story. 

We review some failures, setback, obstacles, mistakes, and achievements throughout my life so far. 

Reilly Kilbride has been riding as a fireman for the last three years. He has been lucky enough to be around great firefighters and leadership throughout his career so far. His mission in life is to work hard and serve others. Training hard is the way he sharpens his mental health & serving others is how he sharpens his heart. 

Erik Vidal comes back to the show. We dive deep into Eriks time in the military, expeirence at Georgia Smoke Divers, and leading the way in his own life with self development. Follow Erik  @iamerikvidal 

Alex was Born and raised in Los Angeles. Spent 6 years in the army as a member of the 75th ranger regiment. He then went on to serve for 3 years as a military contractor. Alex currently Lives in Savannah, Georgia and is currently working for the Pooler Georgia Fire Department. He Currently works as a driver on the straight stick truck. 

Andy Glaze is a Father, Husband, Firefighter, Runner. He is currently married with 3 kids. He is currently a fire captain for the La Verne Fire Department in Los Angeles County, California. He is the president of the local 3624. He has run over 100 miles every week for 202 weeks in a row. He embodies what it means to go all in and runs a lot of ultramarathons all over the world, from China to Europe.

Michael D.N. Laughlin is a full- time career firefighter with Kingston Fire & Rescue. What makes his story unique, is that twice, Mike returned to his beloved job, after serious accidents that could have taken his life. At ages 26, and 35, he suffered major injuries, first to his left leg and arm. His leg functions because of permanent metal plates, pins and screws and is marked with skin graft scars.

 In an even more catastrophic second accident, when a deer ran out in front of his motorcycle, he became an above -knee amputee. He also broke his back and neck and his right leg could not be saved. 

Anthony Rowett, Jr. is a Captain with the Mobile (AL) Fire Rescue Department. He has been in the fire service for 18 years. He spent his first 3 years in the fire service as a firefighter with the Ogdensburg (NJ) Volunteer Fire Department before being hired by the Mobile Fire Rescue Department, where he has worked for the past 15 years. He has multiple degrees in both fire science and emergency services management. He is a graduate of the Alabama Smoke Diver course. He is the owner of Port City Fire Training. He is the President of the Alabama Firefighters Training Foundation. He is also an industrial firefighting instructor at Gulf Coast Emergency Response Academy. He is a contributing author for multiple fire service publications including Fire Engineering, Fire Rescue, Firehouse, Fire Department Training Network, and Firemanship Journal. He has instructed at multiple fire service conferences including FDIC, Firehouse Expo, Firehouse World, Water on the Fire, High-Rise Operations Conference, 3rd Coast Conference, and others as well as for individual fire departments. He is also a FDIC H.O.T. instructor. He is a member of the NFPA 14: Standard for the Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems Committee. He is also a co-host on the Generation Engine podcast on Fire Engineering Blog Talk Radio.