In this episode of the CAN Report, I hav e a great conversation with Chief Russell Osgood, a dedicated fire service leader with nearly 40 years of experience. We discuss the importance of cancer prevention in firefighters, the role of the Kitchen Table Foundation in supporting first responders, and practical strategies for improving firefighter wellness. Chief Osgood shares his personal experiences with cancer in the fire service and emphasizes the need for teamwork, proper gear usage, and physical fitness. The conversation highlights the significance of community engagement and mutual aid in ensuring the safety and health of firefighters.

When Chief Osgood is not fulfilling his role at the Chief of the Ogunquit Fire Department, he dedicates his spare time to help with the Firefighter Cancer Support Network. Chief Osgood speaks nationally on the importance of firefighter cancer prevention.

Visit https://www.firefightercancersupport.org/ and see what they are doing to help the fire service community.

Check out FDIC and register to experience a conference full of knowledge, education and networking.

https://www.fdic.com/

Visit The Firefighter Kitchen Table Foundation and see how you can help spread the word on mental health in the fire service.

https://thekitchentablefoundation.org/

Be sure to visit Engine House Designs for all of your clothing needs...Ignite the pride! 😁🔥

https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/

In this episode, I get to learn about Sean Connell, a fourth-generation firefighter from Maine. We discuss Sean's upbringing in the fire service, the challenges faced by volunteer firefighters, and the importance of training and certification. Sean shares his experiences with the HEN nozzles and the correlation between sports and firefighting. The conversation also touches on the significance of mentorship and the culture within fire departments, as well as Sean's upcoming presentation at the New England FOOLS Northeastern Fire Summit.

https://nefools.org/

https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/

https://www.hentechnologies.com/

Review of Bearers of the Oath RIT or DIE, Douglas,Georgia. BOTO is not just about the training, it's about building each other up. You start as strangers and leave as family. All of the students were dialed in and wanted more! Words can't describe the emotions that you feel when you meet people like this. Registration is currently open for Bearers of the Oath #6. Visit their website and click that registration link.
I had the pleasure of meeting so many amazing people..Jazmyne was one of those special people that I had the pleasure of meeting. When you watch this video...look at her smile and the pride that she has for this job and for her family.
Keep killing it Jazmyne, as well as the all of the newest recruits! Nozzle Tov!

https://www.bearersoftheoath.org/

In this episode, Chief Scott Thompson discusses the importance of fostering a culture that values aggressive problem-solving and independent thinking within the fire service. He emphasizes the need for firefighters to be well-trained and committed to their roles, highlighting the success of the single-role paramedic program in diversifying and strengthening the department.

Chief Thompson also shares insights on leadership, the significance of maintaining a high-performing learning culture, and the challenges of balancing tradition with innovation in fire service operations.

Chief Thompson discusses the importance of building a strong culture within fire departments, focusing on recruitment, retention, training, and leadership development. Chief Thompson explains the evolution of The Colony Fire Department and the need to address bullying and promote inclusion. We also discuss mental health and resilience in the firefighting profession, emphasizing the importance of support systems and community connections.

Takeaways

• Support a culture that values firefighters' independence.
• Commitment to the mission is essential for success.
• Recruitment and retention are influenced by department culture.
• Training and preparedness are critical for effective firefighting.
• Succession planning ensures continuity in leadership.
• Addressing bullying is vital for a healthy work environment.
• Mental health resources are crucial for first responders.
• Single role paramedics can enhance service delivery.
• Teamwork and camaraderie strengthen the fire service.
• Leadership should encourage open communication and innovation.

Chapters

00:00 Building a Culture of Problem Solving

03:45 The Colony Fire Department: Growth and Challenges

10:38 Recruitment and Retention Strategies

11:28 Understanding and Shaping Organizational Culture

14:04 Succession Planning and Leadership Development

15:24 The Tenure of a Fire Chief: When is Enough Enough?

20:40 Innovative EMS Solutions: The Single Role Paramedic Program

27:39 The Value of Fire Service Benefits

30:23 Firefighter Medics: Balancing Roles and Responsibilities

32:51 The Shift Towards Single Role Medics

36:52 Training and Experience in Firefighting

41:36 Creating an Inclusive Work Environment

48:20 Addressing Bullying and Building a Positive Culture

56:17 The Importance of Team Mindset in Firefighting

57:39 Navigating the Path to Becoming a Firefighter

58:36 Maintaining Standards in Fire Service

59:25 The Ripple Effect of Leadership in Fire Culture

01:00:42 Learning from Real-Life Fire Incidents

01:03:00 The Role of Data and Experience in Firefighting

01:04:48 Cowboy Ready: Balancing Safety and Aggression

01:06:41 Mentorship and Inspiration in Fire Service

01:09:07 The Functional Fire Company: A Guide to Best Practices

01:11:08 Mental Health and Resilience in Firefighting

01:17:03 Addressing the Culture of Bullying in Firehouses

Be sure to check out Engine House Designs

https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/

Check out our friends at The Kitchen Table Foundation

https://thekitchentablefoundation.org/

And shop at the OG of Fire Service Swag

https://notoriousfire.com/

In this episode I sit down with Dr. David Hupp, an expert in fire service management and author of 'V.I.P.E.R. Improvement'. We discuss the integration of business improvement tools in fire departments, focusing on leadership, management, and efficiency. Dr. Hupp explains Lean Six Sigma methodologies, the importance of root cause analysis, and how to set SMART goals. We also touch on marketing strategies for recruitment, the significance of feedback loops, and the role of family support in a fire service career. Our discussion emphasizes the need for continuous learning and adapting to modern challenges in the fire service.

Takeaways

• Lean Six Sigma is crucial for improving fire service efficiency.
• Root cause analysis helps prevent recurring issues in departments.
• Setting SMART goals provides clarity and accountability.
• Marketing strategies are essential for recruitment in fire services.
• Feedback loops are necessary for effective surveys and improvements.
• The Burn Change Management Model aids in implementing changes successfully.
• Social media can be a powerful tool for recruitment.
• Continuous training is vital for personal and departmental growth.
• Family support plays a significant role in a fire service career.
• Business tools can enhance the operational side of fire departments.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Leadership in Fire and EMS

02:34 Understanding Lean Six Sigma and Its Application

05:21 Inspiration Behind Writing the Book

08:09 Business Models in Fire and EMS Departments

10:57 Root Cause Analysis in Healthcare and Fire Services

13:39 The Viper Improvement Framework Explained

16:17 Setting SMART Goals for Departments

19:15 Change Management in Fire Services

22:00 Marketing Strategies for Recruitment

24:39 Utilizing Social Media for Recruitment

27:21 Conclusion and Class Offerings

27:44 Crafting Effective Surveys for Honest Feedback

31:34 The Importance of Feedback Loops

33:33 The Journey into the Fire Service

36:03 Leadership and Positive Reinforcement in Fire Service

38:31 Balancing Family Life and Fire Service

42:46 Passion for Training and Extrication

45:11 Future Plans and Knowledge Sharing

Visit Dr. David Hupps' website for more information

https://viper-fire-ems.com/

Visit https://a.co/d/3tcngvK on AMAZON to purchase V.I.P.E.R. Improvement

Visit Key City Fire Conference more information

https://www.keycityfireconference.org/

Visit Engine House Designs..see what they can do for you.

https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/

Check out https://thekitchentablefoundation.org/ 👍

And check out my online shop for all of your The CAN Report Swag!

https://notoriousfireshops.com/the_can_report/shop/home

In this episode I sit down with Ben Wilson. Ben is the owner of F.D.I.R. Fire Training. Ben brings a positive and fresh new look to fire training. Through utilizing social media as a learning tool, Ben brings education to those looking for some quick, basic and informative lessons. He inspires others to bring that knowledge back to their fire departments and engage in conversations, which leads to hands on training.

Ben discusses the impact of positivity and the pursuit of perfection in personal growth. He emphasizes the contagious nature of positivity and the importance of surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals who strive for excellence without the pressure of achieving perfection. Ben believes in treating others with respect and dignity.

You can see the joy that Ben has for this career in his training reels and in our conversation.

You can find Ben Wilson on instagram as well as various training venues throughout the country. Ben Wilson will be a presenter at the Key City Fire Conference in Frederick County Maryland in March.

Takeaways

• Negativity is infectious, but positivity is even better.
• Chasing perfection is a continuous journey, not a destination.
• Surrounding yourself with positive people enhances your own mindset.
• Perfection implies completion, which can hinder growth.
• The pursuit of excellence should be a shared experience.
• Mindset plays a crucial role in personal development.
• Striving for improvement is more valuable than achieving perfection.
• Positivity can create a ripple effect in social circles.
• Embracing imperfection can lead to greater creativity.
• Continuous learning is essential for personal and professional growth.

fdirtraining.com

https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/

https://www.keycityfireconference.org/

https://notoriousfire.com/

In this conversation, Mike Goldstein shares his personal journey with strokes and migraines, emphasizing the importance of understanding these health issues. He discusses his experiences with migraines, the impact of a stroke on his life, and the discovery of a PFO (patent foramen ovale) that contributed to his health challenges. Goldstein encourages listeners, especially first responders, to prioritize their health, seek answers, and not dismiss symptoms as mere headaches. He highlights the need for awareness and self-care in the face of these medical conditions.

https://tedysteam.org/

https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/congenital-heart-defects/about-congenital-heart-defects/patent-foramen-ovale-pfo

In this episode I had the privilege to talk with Captain Chad of the Austell Fire Department. Captain Chad Criss is a Bearers of the Oath Cadre member, as well as an Instructor for Elite Fire Training.

Chad Criss emphasizes the importance of being fully committed to the emergency services profession and how Faith plays an important role in his everyday life. He discusses the need for progression and growth within the field, highlighting that being 'all in' means not only excelling in one's role but also giving back to the community and sharing skills with others. Chris underscores the significance of continuous learning and development in providing effective service. Chris hits on the importance of having a positive role in his youth, How his Grandfather taught him the important facts in life and how those lessons still have meaning to this very day.

Takeaways

If you're all in, be all in.

Being all in is all about progression.

It's not being stagnant, it's moving forward.

Give back to the people you serve.

Great backseat fireman, even with 30 years.

Progression is key in emergency services.

Skills learned should be shared.

Commitment is essential in EMS.

All in means more than just a job.

It's about serving the community effectively.

Check out Engine house Designs...Ignite the Pride

https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/

Registration is open for Bearers of the Oath

https://www.bearersoftheoath.org/

Check out NextRung

https://www.nextrung.org/

Check out all the sweet swag from Notorious Fire Co.

https://notoriousfire.com/

In this episode I sit down with Chris Whyte. Chris emphasizes the critical role of building inspections in fire safety and emergency preparedness. He discusses the importance of being aware of a building's condition, even if one is not the primary inspector, and highlights the need for continuous assessment to identify potential risks.

Chris is the Chairman of the NJ Firefighters Mutual Benevolent Association, the team coordinator for the NJ Critical Incident Stress Management Team and runs the Garden State Size Up page. Chris is incredibly passionate about getting help to his fellow brothers and sisters in the 1st Responders field when they need it the most. On our episode we dive into his work with the NJ CISM Team and his love for building construction.

Takeaways

• If your department is doing building inspections, you should still be looking around.
• Size up never stops.
• Soak in that building as much as you can when it's not on fire.
• Next time you might be there, it might be on fire.
• Knowing the condition of a building helps in emergency situations.
• Understanding risks is crucial for fire safety.
• Continuous assessment is key to preparedness.
• Inspectors should communicate findings effectively.
• Awareness of building conditions can save lives.
• Preparation is essential for effective emergency response.

Check out Engine House Designs

https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/

https://njcriticalincidentcollaborative.com/

nextrung.org

In this episode, I get to sit down with Deputy Chief David Hall of the Franklin Fire Department in NH. DC Hall is a seasoned firefighter, instructor and Leader. David talks about his journey in the fire service. We discuss the importance of passion, mentorship, and community engagement in firefighting, as well as the challenges of recruitment and retention in the current landscape. David shares insights on maintaining enthusiasm in the profession, connecting with younger generations, and the vital role of EMS in modern fire departments. The conversation emphasizes the need for strong leadership and a positive culture within fire departments to foster growth and satisfaction among firefighters.

Takeaways

• David Hall shares his journey in the fire service.
• The importance of military experience in shaping a firefighter's career.
• Teaching is a passion that enhances the fire service experience.
• Maintaining passion is crucial for longevity in the fire service.
• Connecting with younger generations is essential for the future of firefighting.
• Training and mentorship are key components of a successful fire department.
• Community engagement fosters better training and relationships.
• Staffing challenges are prevalent in many fire departments today.
• EMS plays a vital role in the fire service and community support.
• Recruitment strategies must adapt to current challenges in the workforce.
• Creative approaches to recruitment can help fill gaps in staffing.
• Retention is heavily influenced by department culture and leadership.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Fire Service Journey

02:24 Career Path and Military Background

07:15 Teaching and Passion for Fire Service

10:14 Maintaining Passion in the Fire Service

14:02 Connecting with New Generations

18:27 Training and Mentorship in Fire Service

25:38 Community Engagement and Training Initiatives

32:25 Department Overview and Staffing Challenges

35:34 The Role of EMS in Fire Service

39:03 Recruitment Challenges in the Fire Service

45:02 Creative Recruitment Strategies

51:50 Retention Strategies and Department Culture

01:02:34 Succession Planning in Fire Departments

Check out my online shop at Notorious Fire Co.

https://notoriousfireshops.com/the_can_report/shop/home

Check out Engine House Designs...Ignite the Pride

https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/CAN