In this episode, Matt joins Justin Andreas, an ultramarathoner, run coach, social media influencer, podcaster, and current Deputy Fire Chief at Eielson AFB. They dig into the power of doing hard things—and how stepping into discomfort builds real resilience you can carry into every area of life. Justin shares why carving out time for the things that ignite you isn’t just a hobby—it’s a critical part of thriving on duty and off. Whether you’re chasing big goals in your career, your fitness, or your personal development, this conversation shows how leaning into the hard stuff shapes you into someone who’s ready for anything.

Fluorine Free Foam (F3) has officially replaced AFFF across the Department of Defense fire service - but what does that really mean for firefighters on the line?

In this episode, Matt and Chris sit down with Austin Perry, a Staff Sergeant and Company Officer at Eielson Air Force Base, who brings firsthand operational experience using F3 during two major aircraft responses - an F-35 crash and an F-16 mishap in 2025.

Austin shares insights from both real-world incidents and formal training at the Dallas-Fort Worth Fire Training Research Center, breaking down the science, limitations, and tactical adjustments needed to apply F3 in the field effectively.

From foam chemistry and nozzle techniques to weather effects and decision-making under pressure, this episode dives deep into the technical side of firefighting’s newest challenge: mastering F3.

To explore Austin’s training videos and F3 resources, visit firedawg.us and check out Episode 56.

In this Table Talk Series episode, Matt and Chris dive into what it really means to balance military and fire service obligations. They break down where to focus your attention throughout your career—starting with mastering your craft as a firefighter and Airman, before anything else.

The discussion covers how technical proficiency lays the foundation for effective leadership, when and how to build cross-unit relationships, and how to approach promotions and professional development with purpose. Matt and Chris also share insights on choosing meaningful extracurriculars and aligning your growth with both your personal goals and the mission.

Whether you’re just starting or looking to grow as a leader in the military fire service, this conversation offers practical advice and real-world perspective on career focus, development, and balance.

In this episode, Matt and Chris sit down with two retired Air Force firefighters who turned their passion for service into thriving ventures. Mark Abrahamson, founder of Foxtrot Zulu and co-founder of Probie Fire Training, shares how he built businesses that provide consultation, training, and resources to DoD and civilian fire departments. Ashontay Owens, founder of Crimson Melt and the Folds of the Flame Foundation, shares his inspiration to launch a restaurant and the mission behind his nonprofit supporting families of first responders lost to suicide.

Together, they reflect on the military and fire service lessons that shaped their leadership, the hurdles of entrepreneurship, and the advice they’d give firefighters thinking about starting their own businesses.

In episode 54, Chris sits down with Chief Warrant Officer Justin Barnes, Marine Corps Liaison Officer at the Joint Fire Protection Academy in San Angelo, Texas.

With over 20 years of service, Chief Barnes has served in Iraq and Afghanistan, shaped thousands of Marines as a Drill Instructor, and was recognized as the 2022 DoD Military Fire Officer of the Year.

Their conversation explores what it really means to be comfortable with discomfort and how that mindset shapes strong leaders. They also talk about the importance of trust in both combat and training environments, as well as the challenge of preparing teams for missions leaders themselves may never have faced. Chief Barnes shares how he creates space for mistakes, even in no-fail missions, while fostering growth in young leaders.

In this episode, Chris and Matt explore the power of purpose—why it matters, how it shapes our daily actions, and its deep connection to mental well-being and long-term happiness. Drawing on the work of Viktor Frankl and our own experiences in the fire service, we discuss how purpose isn't just a feel-good concept—it’s a driving force that fuels performance, resilience, and personal growth. Whether it’s in your personal life or on the fireground, having a clear purpose helps you show up as the best version of yourself, even on the hardest days.

In this episode, Matt and Chris sit down with Master Gunnery Sergeant Marcos Martinez, the Fire Protection Training Analyst with Marine Corps Training & Education Command in Quantico, VA. With 28 years of service in the Marine Corps, Master Guns Martinez has had diverse roles, including working with an urban search and rescue team, serving as a Drill Instructor, and completing a tour in Iraq during the Battle of Ramadi. As the senior enlisted leader for Marine Corps Fire Protection, he shares valuable insights into the mission, structure, and integration of Marine Corps Fire Protection and its comparison to the Air Force.  

The conversation dives into the responsibilities of a Fire Protection Training Analyst, the differences between deployable and non-deployable units, and how Marine Corps fire protection units are structured. The episode also explores the growing partnership between the Marine Corps and Air Force fire services, the integration of civilian firefighting skills to enhance combat readiness, and the importance of Marines doing "hard things" to build resilience and prepare for future challenges. If you're interested in fire service leadership, combat readiness, and the collaboration between military branches, this episode is for you!

In this episode, Matt speaks with TSgt Quentin Patterson, an Air Force firefighter turned Air Advisor. With experience supporting partner nations across Africa and beyond, Quentin has been part of missions in Senegal, Tanzania, Ghana, Chad, France, Morocco, and Cameroon.

Quentin shares his journey in air advising including the training and his experiences, and gives insight into how his work impacts global security. He also discusses how this unique path will open doors for future opportunities within and outside the military.

In this episode, Matt is joined by three leaders who played a pivotal role in shaping the AF F&ES Concept of Employment: CMSgt (ret.) Phillip Winkelmann, CMSgt Mark Abrahamson, and SMSgt Jesse Marshall. During the Air Force’s transition to AFFOGEN, they were in unique positions to help lay the foundation for the F&ES framework we have today.

Chief Winkelmann, the former Air Force Fire Protection Career Field Manager, along with Chief Abrahamson and Senior Marshall, discuss and offer insights into how the Concept of Employment came together.

In this episode, Chris Bauchle and Chief AJ Kehl explain why negotiation skills are essential for fire service leaders - especially for DoD firefighters, officers, and chiefs. Drawing on principles from Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss, Chief Kehl explains that negotiation isn't just about securing pay or resources - it's an essential tool for everyday leadership. Whether you're coordinating with other agencies, resolving shift disputes, advocating for equipment upgrades, or building trust with the community, negotiation plays a crucial role in effective leadership.

The conversation also dives into the power of influence in leadership. Effective leaders know that giving orders isn't enough - they influence to get results. From understanding incentives to building trust, this episode equips you with tools to lead with empathy, foster collaboration, and drive high performance in your fire service team.

Tune in and level up your leadership and negotiation game!