The C.A.N. Report

In this episode of the Stickers of the Can Report, Mike Goldstein reflects on his life experiences as he approaches his 47th birthday. He shares insights on personal growth, the importance of self-reflection, and the impact of a challenging childhood on his current mindset. Mike discusses the significance of striving to be a better person each year, emphasizing that resolutions should be ongoing rather than limited to New Year's. He candidly recounts his past struggles with violence and toxic relationships, both in his personal life and within the fire service, and how these experiences shaped his understanding of leadership and community.

As he navigates through his reflections, Mike highlights the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive individuals and the need to break free from negative cycles. He encourages listeners to focus on positivity, to lift each other up, and to be mindful of their words and actions, especially in the age of social media. The episode culminates in a heartfelt call to action for listeners to treat each other with respect and kindness, fostering a sense of brotherhood and unity within their communities.

Takeaways

• "You should always be trying to improve every year."
• "It's important to understand where other people's lives were and where they are now."
• "You don't want to repeat the past."
• "Life is not about the followers; it's about living."
• "We need to treat each other with respect and dignity."
• "It's okay to feel that it's okay to grow and deal with these issues."
• "You have the option to like someone and not like someone."
• "If you don't like someone, just delete them from your life."
• "We need more love in this world."
• "Find your tribe and stick with it."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Personal Reflections

01:57 Childhood Challenges and Growth

08:15 Navigating Toxic Relationships

16:35 The Impact of Social Media

25:20 Finding Your Tribe and Community Support

31:45 A Call for Positivity and Respect




https://www.firefighternation.com/podcasts/

In this engaging conversation, Mike Goldstein, also known as Stickers, interviews Samson "Mufasa" DeSessa, a combat veteran and fire chief, about his new book 'Brotherhood is a Verb.' They discuss the importance of vulnerability, mentorship, and building relationships in leadership. DeSessa shares his personal experiences with PTSD, the significance of mental health support, and how to create a positive culture in the fire service. The conversation emphasizes the value of passion, positivity, and the impact of toxic environments on individuals and teams.

Takeaways

• Brotherhood is an active choice and a verb.
• Vulnerability in leadership fosters trust and connection.
• Mentorship is crucial for personal and professional growth.
• Leadership capital is built through relationship capital.
• Creating a positive culture starts with individual responsibility.
• Mental health support is essential in high-stress professions.
• It's important to overcome toxic work environments.
• Physical fitness is a key component of being a firefighter.
• Passion and positivity are contagious in the workplace.
• Everyone has the ability to serve their community in meaningful ways.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Brotherhood and Leadership

03:00 The Journey to Writing a Book

04:48 Vulnerability in Sharing Personal Stories

09:19 The Importance of Mentorship

11:01 Leadership as a Shared Responsibility

18:01 Building Relationship Capital

21:45 Peer Support and Mental Health Advocacy

25:13 Creating a Culture of Trust and Accountability

26:59 Daily Expectations and Leadership Culture

31:07 The Power of Servant Leadership

34:34 Passion and Positivity in the Workplace

36:18 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Fire Service

38:18 Daily Operations and Challenges in Firefighting

39:43 Family Legacy and Personal Motivation

41:45 Physical Fitness and Health in Fire Service

48:53 Overcoming Trauma and PTSD

54:45 Finding Purpose and Passion Again

56:11 Conclusion and Resources for Support

https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/

https://thekitchentablefoundation.org/

In this episdoe I have an insightful conversation with Bassel Ibrahim, a passionate firefighter, Officer, Instructor, Husband, Father and owner of Proactive Rescue Operations. We discuss the importance of work-life balance in the fire service, building trust within teams, and the significance of proactive training. Bassel shares his experiences, including the creation of Proactive Rescue Operations and the One Bad Tour training program, emphasizing the need for continuous improvement and data-driven decision-making in firefighting. The conversation highlights the challenges and rewards of being a firefighter, as well as the importance of community and support within the profession.

Takeaways

• Bassel Ibrahim is passionate about the fire service and helping others excel.
• Work-life balance is crucial for firefighters to maintain personal and professional fulfillment.
• Building trust and rapport within a firefighting team enhances performance and morale.
• Proactive Rescue Operations focuses on teaching and learning from diverse perspectives.
• Bassel's drive for training stems from a personal experience in a fire incident.
• One Bad Tour is a rigorous training program designed to challenge firefighters.
• Training against the clock is essential for preparing firefighters for real-life scenarios.
• Bassel emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement and learning in the fire service.
• The Firefighter Mayday Survey aims to collect data to improve firefighter safety and tactics.
• Bassel is involved in various initiatives to enhance firefighting education and training.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Basil Ibrahim and His Journey

04:35 The Importance of Work-Life Balance in the Fire Service

09:34 Building Trust and Rapport with Your Crew

13:48 Proactive Rescue Operations: Teaching and Learning

17:04 The Catalyst for Change: A Personal Story

23:38 One Bad Tour: A Unique Training Experience

36:25 Empowering Through Failure

39:02 Realistic Training and Mental Resilience

41:53 Innovative Class Structures at FDIC

45:38 Feedback and Continuous Improvement

50:50 Reviving the Firefighter Mayday Survey

56:31 The Importance of Data in Firefighting

58:34 Training Against the Clock

01:04:07 Choosing to Win in Training

01:11:24 The Role of Social Media in Firefighting

https://proactiverescueoperations.com/

https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/

https://thekitchentablefoundation.org/

https://notoriousfire.com/

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