As we step into a New Year many of us ask ourselves questions around our personal habits, but around 80% of New Year's resolutions fail, with most people giving up on their goals within a few weeks, with only about 25% of people managing to stick to their resolutions after 30 days; the most common resolutions include losing weight, exercising more & eating healthier.

To help us tackle this, I’m joined by my good friend Alan Smith. Alan’s someone who knows a thing or two about commitment—not just because of his incredible 40-year career in the fire service, but also because of his dedication to fitness, wellbeing, and lifelong learning. Alan’s got a wealth of knowledge to share about the mindset it takes to hold yourself accountable, the importance of setting realistic goals, and how to make meaningful progress—not just for January, but for the rest of your career and life.

In this conversation, we’ll discuss topics including fitness as a cornerstone of longevity in demanding careers like firefighting & how investing in your ‘fitness pension’ can set you up for success.

connect with Alan HERE

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Today on the podcast my guest is Professor Ricardo Weewer. Ricardo is a leading figure in fire service science, having served as a professor at the Netherlands Fire Service Academy since 2011. His career spans decades of leadership and innovation, including serving as a Deputy Chief Fire Officer in Amsterdam. With a PhD in metal sciences from Delft University of Technology, Ricardo has dedicated his life to advancing practical research that improves firefighter safety and operational effectiveness.

In this episode, we dive into a wide variety of topics in fire and rescue operations. Ricardo shares insights on the Quadrant Model, a framework that revolutionizes decision-making by outlining four tactical approaches: defensive exterior, offensive exterior, defensive interior, and offensive interior. We discuss how this model helps firefighters adapt their strategies in real-time based on evolving conditions.

We’ll also explore the importance of ventilation tactics and the challenges of smoke propagation. Ricardo highlights how tactical decisions like using positive pressure fans or assessing flow paths can dramatically influence outcomes in fire scenarios.

Finally, we’ll also touch on fire service culture and leadership. Ricardo explains the value of a term called shared leadership and the need for all leaders to understand the 'DNA' of the fire service before taking on position of leadership, an approach which appears to be adopted far less across fire services here in the UK. His perspective underscores how involving firefighters in decision-making processes and fostering a culture of mutual trust can transform operations.

You can access info on The "Quadrant Model for Fighting Structure Fires" HERE

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today we have an extraordinary episode featuring none other than Dr. Burton A. Clark. For those of you in the fire service, his name should be synonymous with leadership, education, and pushing the boundaries of fire safety culture.

Dr. Burton A. Clark has an illustrious 50-year career in the fire service. Starting as a firefighter in Washington, D.C., he rose through the ranks to become an Assistant Fire Chief in Laurel, Maryland, and later Operations Chief for DHS/FEMA. He’s held prestigious positions such as Management Science Program Chair at the National Fire Academy and Visiting Scholar at Johns Hopkins University Center for Injury Research and Policy.

Links:
Dr Clarks website
Dr Clarks Linkedin

We only feature the latest 200 episodes of the podcast on public platforms so to access our podcast LIBRARY, every Debrief & document CLICK HERE

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My returning guest today is good friend of the podcast John McDonough who has been a professional firefighter for 38 years with the Fire and Rescue New South Wales in Sydney Australia.
 
 He is currently an operational Duty Commander in charge of 14 stations in the busy inner west zone of Sydney. He was Team Leader of the Fire Operational Training Team (FOTT). This team trains all firefighters and officers in structural fire behaviour and firefighting techniques and tactics.
 
 Over the last 17 years, this has developed into a standardized doctrine for how firefighters act and behave at the task and tactical level. It is taught at all levels from recruit to Station Officer.
 
 He is a co-author of ‘3D Firefighting – Training, Tactics and Techniques’, which is published in the USA. In 2009 he was awarded Australia’s highest honor for Fire Officers, the Australian Fire Service Medal for his work in structural firefighting training. 

We only feature the latest 200 episodes of the podcast on public platforms so to access our podcast LIBRARY, every Debrief & document CLICK HERE

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In today’s episode, Beyond the Flames: The Lifespan of Firefighter Fabrics, we’re turning up the heat on groundbreaking research from the University of Alberta. Joining us are two incredible experts: Saiful, a PhD candidate who’s spent the past four years uncovering why firefighter gear doesn’t always stand the test of time, and Dr. Patricia Dolez, an Associate Professor and leader in textile science.

We’ll take you behind the scenes of their cutting-edge work, uncovering the hidden factors that can weaken your protective clothing. We’re talking moisture, heat, and even the chemicals that linger after a tough call. You’ll hear about:

• The science of fabric degradation—tensile strength, sulphur content, and water repellency breakdown.
• The unseen dangers of chemical leaching and how outdated testing standards put safety at risk.
• And exciting new advancements, like sensors that can monitor gear aging in real time and revolutionary cleaning methods that outshine the old-school wash.

This episode is packed with critical insights for firefighters, researchers, and anyone passionate about innovation in safety. Together, Saiful and Dr. Dolez will help us understand how we can better protect those who protect us.

So, grab your gear, settle in, and get ready to explore the science behind the equipment that keeps our heroes safe on the frontlines.

We only feature the latest 200 episodes of the podcast on public platforms so to access our podcast LIBRARY, every Debrief & document CLICK HERE

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 A big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode.
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Lyfe Linez -  Get Functional Hydration FUEL for FIREFIGHTERS, Clean no sugar  for daily hydration. 80% of people live dehydrated and  for firefighters this cost
Hibern8 - a plant based sleep aid specially designed to promote a restful night's sleep and awaken you feeling refreshed and energised

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***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.***

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This week, we’re stepping out of the fire station and into the fast-paced, high-pressure world of policing with a truly extraordinary guest.

Ben Pearson has spent the last 19 years fighting crime on the front lines as a member of the elite Roads Policing Unit of West Yorkshire Police. As a key figure in Channel 5’s hit series Police Interceptors, Ben has been at the center of some of the most intense and dangerous moments imaginable—chasing down criminals at high speeds, arresting murderers, rapists, and violent offenders, and bringing justice to some of the toughest cases out there. His career has been defined by courage, precision, and a relentless drive to serve and protect.

But Ben’s story is about so much more than what you see on TV. It’s a journey that takes us behind the badge, offering an intimate look at the reality of life as a police officer—the highs, the lows, and the toll it can take. After years of dealing with fatal collisions, witnessing unspeakable tragedies, and losing his parents, Ben found himself fighting a battle he never saw coming. His mental health deteriorated under the weight of trauma and loss, and he discovered just how unprepared the system was to help those who serve in such high-stakes roles.

connect with Ben HERE
Ben's Youtube HERE

We only feature the latest 200 episodes of the podcast on public platforms so to access our podcast LIBRARY, every Debrief & document CLICK HERE

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Lyfe Linez -  Get Functional Hydration FUEL for FIREFIGHTERS, Clean no sugar  for daily hydration. 80% of people live dehydrated and  for firefighters this cost
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Today, we have the privilege of speaking with an extraordinary trailblazer. Vicky Shakesby MBE broke barriers as the first full-time female firefighter in her brigade in the early 1990s, carving a path for women in a field historically dominated by men. Her story is one of courage, resilience, and an unyielding commitment to progress.

Connect with Vicky HERE

We only feature the latest 200 episodes of the podcast on public platforms so to access our podcast LIBRARY, every Debrief & document CLICK HERE

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 A big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode.
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Lyfe Linez -  Get Functional Hydration FUEL for FIREFIGHTERS, Clean no sugar  for daily hydration. 80% of people live dehydrated and  for firefighters this cost
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***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.***

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The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) celebrated the 200th anniversary of the world's first municipal fire service on October 23, 2024 at St Giles' Cathedral service where The SFRS hosted a commemorative service with the Princess Royal, SFRS staff, politicians, and guests in attendance.

The SFRS Chief Officer led the rededication of the statue of James Braidwood, the first Master of Fire Engines and "father of modern fire services". Braidwood's great-great-great granddaughter, Diana Hamilton Jones, was also present

Today’s episode was recorded prior to this celebration alongside and guided by my good friend Mike Stachowicz AKA STACKO so join us as we journey back to the origins of organized firefighting in the United Kingdom, a journey that wouldn’t be possible without the pioneering efforts of one man: James Braidwood. Often recognized as the father of modern firefighting, Braidwood founded the first municipal fire brigade in Edinburgh in the early 19th century, a visionary move that forever changed the way we approach fire control and rescue.

Link for FREE content HERE

We only feature the latest 200 episodes of the podcast on public platforms so to access our podcast LIBRARY, every Debrief & document CLICK HERE

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 A big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode.
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Lyfe Linez -  Get Functional Hydration FUEL for FIREFIGHTERS, Clean no sugar  for daily hydration. 80% of people live dehydrated and  for firefighters this cost
Hibern8 - a plant based sleep aid specially designed to promote a restful night's sleep and awaken you feeling refreshed and energised

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Get Involved with the chat - Contribute questions, ideas & topics to be discussed on the podcast using our Firefighter Podcast Burner Phone on 07950 610749 all communication will be treated sensitively & no identity revealed without your permission 

In todays episode, Pete and Carl discuss 

• the challenges of the email hedonic treadmill of poor communication
• the impact of AI tools like ChatGPT
• personal growth through changing perspectives
• reflections on recent podcast guests
• the importance of effective communication
• the need for innovation in firefighter training to address health concerns. 
• the pressing need for collaborative research in the fire service
• innovative technologies emerging in firefighting
• delve into the evolving career paths within the fire and rescue services
• the attraction to the fire service as a lifelong career, 
• the complexities of promotion processes
• and the hidden rules of effective leadership. 

Leadership Link HERE

We only feature the latest 200 episodes of the podcast on public platforms so to access our podcast LIBRARY, every Debrief & document CLICK HERE

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 A big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode.
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Lyfe Linez -  Get Functional Hydration FUEL for FIREFIGHTERS, Clean no sugar  for daily hydration. 80% of people live dehydrated and  for firefighters this cost
Hibern8 - a plant based sleep aid specially designed to promote a restful night's sleep and awaken you feeling refreshed and energised

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***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.***

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My guest today is Rowena Hill, Rowena is a Professor in the psychology department at Nottingham Trent University, she is a Professor of Resilience, Emergencies and Disaster Science.

Contact Dr Rowena Hill MBE at [email protected]

Important LINKS:
Dr Hill NTU
National review of community risk methodology across UK Fire and Rescue Service
ACER Group
FF Health & Wellbeing Work
FF Charity Suicide Prevention

Get Involved with the chat - Contribute questions, ideas & topics to be discussed on the podcast using our Firefighter Podcast Burner Phone on 07950 610749 all communication will be treated sensitively & no identity revealed without your permission

We only feature the latest 200 episodes of the podcast on public platforms so to access our podcast LIBRARY, every Debrief & document CLICK HERE

PODCAST GIFT - Get your FREE subscription to essential Firefighting publications HERE

 A big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode.
GORE-TEX Professional Clothing
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RIP INTO Podcast Apparel
Lyfe Linez -  Get Functional Hydration FUEL for FIREFIGHTERS, Clean no sugar  for daily hydration. 80% of people live dehydrated and  for firefighters this cost
Hibern8 - a plant based sleep aid specially designed to promote a restful night's sleep and awaken you feeling refreshed and energised

Send us a text

Support the show

***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.***

Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew