The Engine House

In this episode of the Engine House podcast, host Cody Hill speaks with Lieutenant Michael Nasti about his journey in the fire service, the impact of 9/11 on his career, and the importance of personal growth and accountability in the fire department. They discuss the challenges of transitioning to an officer role, the significance of fostering a positive culture, and the responsibilities that come with leadership. Michael shares valuable insights on knowing when to promote and the importance of mentorship in shaping new firefighters. In this conversation, Michael Nasti and Cody Hill discuss the importance of responsibility and integrity in the fire service, emphasizing how small tasks like making coffee can teach larger lessons about accountability and teamwork. They explore the evolution of a firefighter's role, the significance of mentorship, and the culture of dependability within firehouses. Michael shares the personal journey that led him to start his podcast, highlighting the value of being genuine and relatable in leadership. The discussion concludes with insights on personal growth and the importance of being oneself in both professional and personal contexts.

Mike Nasti

Instagram: @Tip_of_the_Spear_Leadership

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Engine House Designs

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The Kitchen Table Foundation

Website: https://thekitchentablefoundation.org

Folsomade Leather

Website: https://www.folsomadeleather.com

Topics Covered:

• Career satisfaction often comes from appreciating the moment and learning from experiences.
• Comfort can hinder personal and professional growth.
• It's essential to reflect on one's readiness before promoting to an officer role.
• The role of an officer involves accountability and leadership.
• Fostering a positive culture is crucial for the development of new firefighters.
• Every firefighter has a role to play in the success of the team.
• Mentorship is vital in shaping the next generation of firefighters.
• Promoting for the right reasons is essential for effective leadership.
• Success in the fire service relies on teamwork and dependability.
• Mentorship is crucial for the evolution of firefighters.
• Teaching others reinforces your own knowledge and skills.
• Being genuine in leadership fosters trust and connection.
• Personal experiences shape leadership styles and approaches.
• Growth comes from embracing challenges and learning from mistakes.
• Building a positive culture takes time and consistency.
• Leadership is about being relatable and authentic.

Guest: Mike Nasti

Host: Cody

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In this episode of the Engine House, Cody speaks with fellow firefighter Cody Miller about a traumatic incident that occurred during a residential structure fire. They discuss the importance of communication, training, and mental health in the fire service, as well as the impact of such incidents on personal and family life. Miller shares his experience of calling a Mayday after falling through a roof and the subsequent emotional and psychological challenges he faced. The conversation emphasizes the need for support, understanding, and open dialogue among firefighters, especially after critical incidents.

Cody Miller

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/memphisfireputterouter23/

Phone #: 1-480-329-1835

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The Kitchen Table Foundation

Website: https://thekitchentablefoundation.org

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_kitchen_table_foundation/ 

Topics Covered:

• Experiencing a traumatic incident during a fire.
• Calling a Mayday after falling through a roof.
• The importance of training and experience in firefighting.
• Mental health is crucial for firefighters after traumatic events.
• Communication with family and colleagues is essential.
• Returning to work after trauma can be challenging.
• Support from the fire department is vital for recovery.
• Understanding building construction can prevent accidents.

Guest: Cody Miller

Host: Cody Hill

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In this engaging conversation, Cody Hill and Mike Goldstein, known as Stickers, delve into the multifaceted world of emergency services, exploring the vital role of dispatchers, the transition to firefighting, and the motivations behind serving the community. They discuss the importance of humor and camaraderie in the firehouse, while also addressing serious issues such as bullying and mental health. The conversation highlights the significance of communication, understanding one's audience, and creating a supportive environment for all first responders. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the pervasive issue of bullying within fire station culture, exploring its impact on individuals and the overall department environment. They discuss personal experiences with bullying, the challenges of confronting toxic leadership, and the importance of building camaraderie outside of the firehouse. The dialogue emphasizes the need for open communication, support systems, and the courage to speak up against bullying, ultimately advocating for a healthier and more supportive workplace culture.

Pull up a chair. Let's get into it.

The CAN Report

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_c.a.n._report/

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Topics Covered:

• Practical jokes can be harmless, when approached with awareness.
• Social media can blur the lines between harmless fun and harmful behavior.
• Understanding your audience is key to maintaining a positive environment in the firehouse.
• Many people feel pressured to stay silent about bullying.
• Good firefighters can still exhibit toxic behavior.
• Building camaraderie outside the firehouse is crucial.
• Fear of leaving a toxic environment can hold you back.

Guest: Michael Goldstein (@the_c.a.n._report)

Host: Cody

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In this episode, Cody Hill interviews his wife Erin Hill in a hot seat episode, exploring their personal journey as a couple intertwined with the fire service. They discuss the unique challenges of being a fire family, including the impact of Cody's career on their family life, the joys and struggles of parenting, and the growth of their business together. Erin shares her experiences growing up as a fire child and the dynamics of their marriage, especially during challenging times such as moving to a new city and dealing with a house disaster. The conversation highlights the importance of communication, community support, and the resilience required to navigate life as a fire family. In this conversation, Cody and Erin Hill discuss the unique challenges faced by fire families, including the emotional toll of firefighting, the importance of communication, and strategies for coping with stress. They share personal experiences and insights on parenting, self-care, and the significance of building a supportive community. The discussion emphasizes the need for intentional time together and understanding the dynamics of being a fire family.

Erin

Instagram: @erinjeanhill

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Topics Covered:

• Erin shares her experiences as a fire wife.
• The importance of family support in the fire service.
• Cody and Erin's journey through marriage and parenting.
• The impact of a tree falling on their home.
• Recognizing signs of stress in firefighters is crucial for their partners.
• Setting clear expectations and roles within the family can reduce frustration.
• Intentional time together is vital for maintaining family bonds.
• Self-care is essential for fire wives to manage stress and loneliness.
• Firefighting experiences can shape parenting perspectives and values.
• Building a community can provide necessary support for fire families.
• Communication is key in navigating the challenges of firefighting life.

Guest: Erin Hill

Host: Cody

Brought to you by Engine House Designs | enginehousedesigns.com

For episode four, Cody sits down with Captain Steve Orsini, a training captain from Glendale Fire Department in Arizona.In this engaging conversation, Cody and Steve-O discuss the intricacies of firefighting, focusing on the importance of experience, training, and the unpredictability of fire behavior. They analyze a tragic incident in Hawaii involving unprotected searches, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to risk and safety in the fire service. The discussion highlights the evolution of firefighting tactics, the significance of teamwork, and the necessity of continuous learning and adaptation in a dangerous profession. Pull up a chair. Let's get into it.

The Copper State Fireman

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Engine House Designs

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Topics Covered:

• Unprotected searches can be effective but require experience.
• Fire behavior is predictable, but building conditions can vary.
• Training and drilling are essential for effective firefighting.
• The role of gear in firefighting and its impact on safety.
• Experience plays a crucial role in making tactical decisions.
• Firefighters must be prepared for the inherent risks of the job.
• Communication and teamwork are vital in emergency situations.
• Every fire is different, but fire behavior follows predictable patterns.
• Continuous learning and adaptation are necessary in the fire service.

Guest: Steve Orsini (@copper_state_fireman_podcast)

Host: Cody

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Eli's back for round two, and this time we're diving even deeper.

In this episode, Cody welcomes back Lieutenant Eli VanAutreve to discuss the impactful Project Fire Buddies, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping sick children. They delve into the importance of understanding fire behavior and building construction for effective firefighting tactics. Eli shares insights on how to maintain safety while being aggressive in fire situations, emphasizing the need for proper ventilation and water application. The conversation highlights the significance of community service in the fire department and the critical role of knowledge in ensuring firefighter and civilian safety.

If you caught Part 1, you know Eli brings the real talk. Part 2 is no different.

Pull up a chair. Let's get into it.

Eli VanAutreve

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eli_vanautreve/

Project Fire Buddies

https://www.projectfirebuddies.org/

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Engine House Designs

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Topics Covered:

• Project Fire Buddies
• Understanding fire behavior is crucial for effective firefighting.
• Building construction knowledge aids in tactical decision-making.
• Proper ventilation is essential for safety and effectiveness.
• Water on the fire is the best way to improve conditions.

Guest: Eli VanAutreve (@eli_vanautreve)

Host: Cody

Brought to you by Engine House Designs | enginehousedesigns.com

For episode two, Cody brings on two guys from Princeton Fire Department in Illinois: Lieutenant Eli VanAutreve and Firefighter/Paramedic Nick Lavanway.

Eli opens up about what it's like being promoted young and leading guys who were your peers just a couple years ago—especially in a small department where everyone knows everyone. He also dives into his life as a dedicated athlete in the Firefighter Combat Challenge and his accomplishments with the Lions Den club.

Nick brings a different perspective as a firefighter/paramedic and Lead instructor of the Princeton Fire Department Fire Academy. Before landing full-time in Princeton, he worked in Freeport, IL, so we pick his brain about the differences between departments, the pros and cons of each, and what it's really like navigating the fire service job market.

This one's got leadership, athletics, honor guard stories, and real talk about small department life. Whether you're a young officer trying to figure it out, an athlete grinding in the fire service, or just someone who loves hearing from guys in the trenches, this episode's got something for you.

Pull up a chair. Let's get into it.

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Engine House Designs

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Topics Covered:

• Struggles of being a new Lieutenant
• Being a Member of the Honor Guard
• Switching departments: pros/cons, differences in culture, ect.

Guests: Eli VanAutreve, Nick Lavanway

Host: Cody

Brought to you by Engine House Designs | enginehousedesigns.com

This is where it all starts.

In the pilot episode of The Engine House, Cody introduces himself, the show, and what you can expect every other week when you pull up a chair in the Engine House.

No guests this time—just Cody talking about why he started this podcast, what Engine House Designs is all about, and the kind of real, unfiltered conversations you're gonna hear moving forward. Think of it as your official invitation to the crew.

Plus, he's dropping some big news: the 2025 Christmas giveaway, the Engine House ambassador program, and how your department can get its own custom online store.

If you're in the fire service (or you just like hanging out with people who are), this is your new spot. New episodes drop every other week.

Welcome to the Engine House.

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