This episode of the VDFP Podcast comes to you from the Virginia Fire Rescue Conference, where Chief Jamey Brads and Sandra Parker sit down with Captain Eugene Durham and Chief Bill Donati Jr.. Hear how the conference has grown into Virginia's premier event for hands-on training, leadership, and collaboration—bringing together firefighters from all levels and specialties across the Commonwealth.

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Welcome to the VDFP Podcast! In this episode, Sandra Parker talks with newly-appointed Deputy Director Chief Jamey Brads and reappointed Executive Director Director Brad Creasy about key leadership changes at the Virginia Department of Fire Programs. Hear how these updates impact firefighters statewide, what's ahead for VDFP, and how the agency is working to improve training, support, and advocacy for Virginia's fire service.

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For this episode of the VDFP Podcast, we welcome Will Merritt to discuss the upcoming launch of VDFP's redesigned website. Hear how user feedback shaped its intuitive new features—making it easier than ever to find training, grants, permits, and podcast episodes. Plus, learn about VDFP's move to a biweekly show format and how you can share your thoughts as the new site goes live.

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In this episode of the Virginia Department of Fire Programs Podcast, Sandra Parker talks with Chief Jamey Brads about his recent deployment to Washington State, leading federal disaster response during major flooding. Hear practical takeaways on leadership, teamwork, and how these experiences strengthen Virginia's fire service.

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Welcome to the VDFP Podcast. In this episode, our guest is Jason Burrow, Deputy Director of Joint Operations and Emergency Management for the Virginia Department of Military Affairs. The discussion focuses on the vital partnership between Virginia's fire service and military agencies with insights into effective coordination, training, and the challenges of emergency management at the state level.

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Director Brad Creasy, Executive Director of the Virginia Department of Fire Programs, joins us for a focused conversation about the agency's recent advancements and progress on ongoing challenges. Key topics include essential updates in firefighter pay and hands-on training, the agency's push for innovation, mental health initiatives and new funding that supports Virginia's fire service community.

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In this episode Chief Ken Pravetz joins us, sharing his journey from the Air Force to Chief the Virginia Beach Fire Department, and his involvement with Virginia Task Force 2, one of only 28 federal USAR teams. We address the critical challenges facing FEMA's USAR system, the evolving landscape of disaster response and the future of national emergency management policy providing insight into the complex realities confronting today's fire service.

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Welcome to the VDFP Podcast! In this episode, facilitator Sandra Parker, host Chief Jamey Brads, and VDFP Deputy Chief Michael Parris discuss the latest changes and the future goals for fire service training in Virginia. We share insights on agency realignment and leadership strategies in this behind-the-scenes look at how VDFP is working to better support firefighters all across the Commonwealth.

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This episode features special guest Capt Jon Rigolo to discuss Virginia Beach's Structural Collapse School. Hear how this sought-after program delivers hands-on training and leadership skills for firefighters from local, state and regional teams, setting a national standard in rescue operations. Get updates on program growth, upcoming classes and the importance of teamwork in today's fire service.

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We tackle one of the industry's hottest topics: electric vehicle and lithium-ion battery fires in this episode. With the December 1st statewide EV training deadline fast approaching, our discussion covers crucial updates, evolving best practices, and the unique hazards firefighters face in the age of EVs. We'll share practical insights on response tools, safety tactics, and ongoing training needs.

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