The First Things First

In this episode, Jeremy Sanders, host of the Crew 1st Culture Podcast, shares about the intricate balance between family life, faith, and a career in the fire service. Jeremy talks about his personal journey, including the challenges of being a step-parent in a blended family, the importance of prioritizing relationships, and the struggles of maintaining passion for the job over a long career. He discusses the significance of identity beyond the fire service, the purpose found in pain, and the tools for building resilience. The conversation emphasizes the importance of having a community and a supportive tribe.

In this episode, Captain Josh Chase discusses the importance of purpose, leadership, and personal growth. Captain Chase shares his experiences overcoming challenges, the significance of mentorship, and the role of servant leadership in the fire service. The episode also touches on the importance of faith and family in achieving a balanced life as a firefighter.

In this episode, Nate 'Tuna' Gardner shares his journey from a listless life to finding purpose in the fire service. Nate discusses the challenges and realities of being a firefighter, including the impact of trauma and the distinction between moral injury and PTSD. Tuna emphasizes the importance of family support and the need for open communication with loved ones. He reflects on redefining his purpose after retirement and the ongoing journey of mental health awareness in the fire service.

John Velez Jr., host of the Tailboard Misfits Podcast, discusses his journey of becoming a firefighter, the importance of mentorship, and the balance between family and work. John shares his experiences in the fire service, the challenges he faced, and how he learned to prioritize his faith and family.

**Episode 1: Putting the First Things First** In the debut episode of 'The First Things First', I will dive into what it really means to set the right priorities as firefighters. Over time, the job we once loved can feel overwhelming, routine, or even exhausting. But what if the key to falling in love with the job again isn’t in what we do—but in how we prioritize? I’ll share my own experiences, the common struggles firefighters face, and practical ways to refocus on what truly matters—our Faith, our Family, our Fitness, and then Firefighting. Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned vet, this episode will help you take the first step toward reigniting your passion for the job.