Welcome to the Virginia Department of Fire Programs Podcast! In this episode, host Chief Jamey Brads sits down with Chief Todd LeDuc—nationally recognized fire service leader and CEO of LifeScan Wellness—to explore the evolving world of first responder health and wellness.

Chief LeDuc shares eye-opening insights on why early detection, advanced screenings, and mental health support are vital for today's firefighters. You'll hear about the challenges facing departments small and large, common misconceptions around health screenings, and practical ways every department can prioritize wellness—regardless of resources.

Subscribe for new weekly episodes every Tuesday and get insights into fire services and training techniques. Apple Podcasts Spotify

Send your questions and suggestions for the VDFP Podcast to [email protected]

Learn more about the Virginia Department of Fire Programs, visit the VDFP website: www.vafire.com

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Download a podcast transcript by clicking on this link.

Welcome to the Virginia Department of Fire Programs podcast! In this episode, Sandra Parker and Chief Jamey Brads dive into the agency's "Train the Trainer" initiative—a direct response to feedback from fire service professionals across Virginia. Joining them is Chief Marc Brade, who breaks down how VDFP is making instructor development more accessible, consistent, and effective for departments of all sizes.

Tune in to hear real-world stories about the power of mentoring, the importance of regional instructor symposiums, and how the agency is working to ensure every community has skilled trainers ready to serve. Whether you're a fire service veteran or new to the field, you won't want to miss these practical insights and future plans for Virginia's fire training.

Subscribe for new weekly episodes every Tuesday and get insights into fire services and training techniques. Apple Podcasts Spotify

Send your questions and suggestions for the VDFP Podcast to [email protected]

Learn more about the Virginia Department of Fire Programs, visit the VDFP website: www.vafire.com

Follow VDFP on social media: Facebook Instagram X/Twitter LinkedIn

Download a podcast transcript by clicking on this link.

Welcome to the VDFP Podcast, your source for the latest in Virginia's fire service. In this episode, Chief Jamey Brads and facilitator Sandra Parker are joined by Charlotte Green, a key leader in coordinating NFA programs. Together, they break down the new streamlined process for NFA enrollment, share updates on the rescheduled 2025 State Weekend, and offer tips to make the most of your training opportunities. Whether you're career, volunteer, or simply fire service curious, you'll find valuable insights and resources to keep you at the top of your game.

Subscribe for new weekly episodes every Tuesday and get insights into fire services and training techniques. Apple Podcasts Spotify

Send your questions and suggestions for the VDFP Podcast to [email protected]

Learn more about the Virginia Department of Fire Programs, visit the VDFP website: www.vafire.com

Follow VDFP on social media: Facebook Instagram X/Twitter LinkedIn

Download a podcast transcript by clicking on this link.

Welcome to the Virginia Department of Fire Programs (VDFP) Podcast! In this episode, host Chief Jamey Brads and facilitator Sandra Parker welcome Larry Gwaltney, Executive Director of the Virginia State Firefighters Association (VSFA) and a true fixture in Virginia's fire service since 1966. If you're looking for inspiration, stories from the front lines, and ways to get more involved in Virginia's fire service, this episode is for you!

Subscribe for new weekly episodes every Tuesday and get insights into fire services and training techniques. Apple Podcasts Spotify

Send your questions and suggestions for the VDFP Podcast to [email protected]

Learn more about the Virginia Department of Fire Programs, visit the VDFP website: www.vafire.com

Follow VDFP on social media: Facebook Instagram X/Twitter LinkedIn

Download a podcast transcript by clicking on this link.

Welcome to the VDFP Podcast! In this episode, Chief Jamey Brads and Sandra Parker sit down with Chief Keith Johnson, a fourth-generation firefighter whose career has spanned over 40 years from Long Island to leadership roles in Fairfax and Loudoun Counties. Chief Johnson shares insights from his extensive experience, including building one of the largest combination fire systems, navigating change, and advocating for resources and safety improvements across Virginia. He also reflects on receiving the Governor's Award for Career Fire Chief of the Year and offers inspiring advice for those entering the fire service. Tune in for a conversation full of wisdom, passion, and a deep commitment to the future of Virginia's fire community.

Subscribe for new weekly episodes every Tuesday and get insights into fire services and training techniques. Apple Podcasts Spotify

Send your questions and suggestions for the VDFP Podcast to [email protected]

Learn more about the Virginia Department of Fire Programs, visit the VDFP website: www.vafire.com

Follow VDFP on social media: Facebook Instagram X/Twitter LinkedIn

Download a podcast transcript by clicking on this link.

In this episode, host Chief Jamey Brads and facilitator Sandra Parker sit down with Deputy Chief Abbey Johnston, Deputy Chief of Operations for Bedford County Fire and Rescue and Vice Chair of the Virginia Fire Services Board. Abbey shares her inspiring story of joining the fire service after 9/11, her rise through the ranks, and her commitment to mentoring others and advocating for Virginia's Fire Service. Whether you're new to the field or a seasoned pro, Abbey's insights on leadership, mentorship, and service are sure to motivate and inspire. Don't miss this engaging and informative conversation!

Subscribe for new weekly episodes every Tuesday and get insights into fire services and training techniques. Apple Podcasts Spotify

Send your questions and suggestions for the VDFP Podcast to [email protected]

Learn more about the Virginia Department of Fire Programs, visit the VDFP website: www.vafire.com

Follow VDFP on social media: Facebook Instagram X/Twitter LinkedIn

Download a podcast transcript by clicking on this link.

Welcome to the VDFP Podcast! In this episode, Sandra Parker and Chief Jamey Brads are joined once again by John Miller, Chief of Wildfire and Emergency Response for the Virginia Department of Forestry. With over 35 years in the field, John unpacks vital topics like Virginia's innovative dry hydrant program, rural water supply solutions, funding and grants for fire departments, and how state and federal agencies coordinate on wildfire response.

You'll get an inside look at prescribed burns, specialized training academies, and the everyday challenges facing Virginia's fire and forestry professionals. Whether you're part of the fire service or simply interested in what goes on behind the scenes to keep our communities safe, this episode is packed with practical insights and firsthand stories from the experts. Tune in for another engaging and informative conversation about the realities of fire and forestry services in Virginia!

Subscribe for new weekly episodes every Tuesday and get insights into fire services and training techniques. Apple Podcasts Spotify

Send your questions and suggestions for the VDFP Podcast to [email protected]

Learn more about the Virginia Department of Fire Programs, visit the VDFP website: www.vafire.com

Follow VDFP on social media: Facebook Instagram X/Twitter LinkedIn

Download a podcast transcript by clicking on this link.

In this episode of the VDFP Podcast, facilitator Sandra Parker and host Chief Jamey Brads sit down with John Miller, Chief of Wildfire and Emergency Response at the Virginia Department of Forestry. With over 35 years in the field, John discusses his path through forestry, the realities of managing wildfires across Virginia, and how close partnerships between forestry and local fire services make all the difference.

From the logistics of suppressing hundreds of fires a year to the importance of training, resource sharing, and lessons learned from across the nation, this episode offers a unique look at what it takes to protect Virginia's forests and communities. Whether you're a fire professional or just curious about wildfire management, you won't want to miss the insights and stories packed into this conversation!

Subscribe for new weekly episodes every Tuesday and get insights into fire services and training techniques. Apple Podcasts Spotify

Send your questions and suggestions for the VDFP Podcast to [email protected]

Learn more about the Virginia Department of Fire Programs, visit the VDFP website: www.vafire.com

Follow VDFP on social media: Facebook Instagram X/Twitter LinkedIn

Download a podcast transcript by clicking on this link.

Welcome to the VDFP Podcast! In this episode, host Chief Jamey Brads and facilitator Sandra Parker sit down with Andy John, Deputy State Coordinator for Field Operations at VDEM, to explore the vital role of teamwork within Virginia's fire service. Together, they share powerful stories of collaboration during major incidents like Hurricane Helene and the Richmond water outage, highlighting how partnerships between VDFP and VDEM strengthen Virginia's emergency response.

Tune in for practical insights on bridging gaps, building trust, and why working together leads to better results for first responders and the citizens they serve. Let's dive in!

Subscribe for new weekly episodes every Tuesday and get insights into fire services and training techniques. Apple Podcasts Spotify

Send your questions and suggestions for the VDFP Podcast to [email protected]

Learn more about the Virginia Department of Fire Programs, visit the VDFP website: www.vafire.com

Follow VDFP on social media: Facebook Instagram X/Twitter LinkedIn

Download a podcast transcript by clicking on this link.

Welcome to the VDFP Podcast! In this episode, "Collaborative Rescues: How VDFP and State Agencies Save Lives in Virginia," Sandra Parker and Chief Jamey Brads sit down with Bryan Saunders, Director of Special Operations at Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM). They discuss the vital partnerships between state and local agencies that make large-scale rescue operations possible, from USAR teams and HazMat response to groundbreaking water and air rescue efforts.

Bryan shares compelling stories from real incidents, like Hurricane Helene, highlighting how communication and collaboration—across fire departments, the National Guard, State Police, and volunteers—save lives when disaster strikes. You'll also learn what it takes to train these specialized teams and how to get involved in Virginia's emergency response network.

Whether you're part of the fire service or simply interested in how these teams work together, this episode shines a light on the teamwork and preparation behind Virginia's lifesaving rescues.

Subscribe for new weekly episodes every Tuesday and get insights into fire services and training techniques. Apple Podcasts Spotify

Send your questions and suggestions for the VDFP Podcast to [email protected]

Learn more about the Virginia Department of Fire Programs, visit the VDFP website: www.vafire.com

Follow VDFP on social media: Facebook Instagram X/Twitter LinkedIn

Download a podcast transcript by clicking on this link.