Joined on this episode by the one and only Kiel Samsing; firefighter, paramedic, neuroscience coach, instructor, and author of the game-changing book Mind of Fire: The Science and Art of Decision Making.

Kiel founded Mind of Fire back in 2018 after seeing a massive gap in the fire service: we crush tactics and hands-on skills, but we’ve been starving the cognitive side - the mental sets and reps that separate good decisions from the ones that get people hurt. 

In this episode we’re diving straight into the science and art of fireground decision-making, how the brain actually works under extreme stress, and the practical tools every firefighter and officer needs to build better mental models, cut through chaos, and make the right call when it matters most.

We’ll talk about the OODA loop fire-service style, empowered leadership, why cognitive training is just as critical as nozzle technique, and the real-world stories and lessons that went into Mind of Fire. Kiel’s also got the companion workbook dropping soon and it is loaded with mental drills and exercises you can actually use on shift. 

Expect straight talk on building decision-making muscle, staying sharp through the years, and why the “mind of fire” might be the most important tool on the truck.

Of course the audience is going to light this one up with questions, and we’ll go wherever the conversation takes us...  because that’s what makes the Scrap the absolute best!!!! 

And if you haven’t read Mind of Fire yet, fix that. It’s already becoming required reading in engine houses and training divisions across the country. www.mindoffire.com | @kielsamsing | @mindoffire

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Episode 354 made possible by FireStation Furniture, Snap-Tite Hose, and LCC Fire School