The FireDawg Podcast

In Episode 23, the AF FES Operations & Fire Vehicle Program Manager Fred Terryn talks with Matt and Ben about the many programs he is involved with for AF FES. He provides insight into how apparatus acquisitions are made, discusses the status of the EMS program, gives an update on the next generation SCBA and much more!

In Episode 22, Jeremy McLendon joins Ben to discuss his role as a member of the 45th Space Wing in supporting Space X and NASA space missions. Jeremy is a member of the Human Space Flight Rescue team and works closely with others in the DoD to develop and practice space capsule emergency response procedures.

In Episode 21, Beale AFB Fire Chief Kevin Smith joins Matt and Ben to discuss his philosophies on servant leadership, opportunity equality and perceptions in the department, and about Beale AFB’s response to a tragic U-2 crash.

In Episode 20, Louis F. Garland Fire Academy Instructors Cody Simpson and Jefferey Van Rees share some of the changes the academy has seen in recent years, what life is like as an instructor and how they're adapting during the pandemic.

In Episode 19, we speak with 2019 12 Outstanding Airman of the Year winner Justin Starks. He shares how he was able achieve success in the Air Force by seizing opportunity and having great teammates. He also talks about his educational pursuits, what drove him to author two books and what his plans are for the future. Justin offers a great example for anyone wanting to achieve similar success.

In Episode 18, we speak with Whit Dodson from Shaw AFB Fire Department about the detailed process they went through to analyze the effectiveness of their hose and nozzles, culminating with a total refresh of their structural firefighting setup.

In Episode 17, Dave Wurtzel speaks with us about firefighter fitness, health, and resiliency. He was on the 2017 & 2018 Firefighter Combat Challenge World Champion team, as well as the founder of the Non-Profit The First Twenty.

In Part 2 of Episode 16, the Air Force Fire Chief, Mr. Jeff Wagner, speaks with us about Diversity, Civilian Retirement Pay, and the future of Air Force Fire Emergency Services.

In Part 1 of Episode 16, the Air Force Fire Chief, Mr. Jeff Wagner, speaks with us about PFOS/PFAS blood testing, AFFF replacement, and Fire-Based EMS.

In Episode 15 we talked to RAF Alconbury Firefighter Bob Smith about the harrowing experience of performing CPR on his wife. In addition, he provided a look into how the UK Ministry of Defence and British Local National Direct Hire (LNDH) civilians play an important role in the US Air Force mission in England.