This episode is half Halloween chaos, half serious kitchen-table mentorship talk — with a little FD candy in between.
🎃 Costumes? Check.
😷 Smelling like sweaty Cheetos? Sadly, also check.
💥 Real firehouse talk about mentorship, generational shifts, and showing up for your crew? Absolutely.
We pick up where Episode 129 left off — answering listener comments, tackling social media backlash, and diving deep into what mentorship really means in today’s fire service.
💬 In This Episode:
🎃 Halloween Vibes:
Doug's dressed as a nun. Brian rocks the Scream mask. Matt's just sweating in a USA tee.
Spoiler: We're not as funny as we think we are, but we try.
🚨 Snail Mail Reactions:
The clip heard around the firehouse — we clarify the “your time isn't more important than mine” statement.
→ It’s not about sick leave. It’s about respect and doing the right thing.
🔥 Mentorship Talk – Part 2:
Are rookies today really “soft” — or just different?
Why the way you were taught might not work anymore.
Creating an environment where rookies feel safe asking questions.
Holding onto accountability while ditching the unnecessary ego.
👶 New Firefighters & Generational Shifts:
Lateral hires, job-hopping, and the shift from fear-based leadership
The power of appreciation and how simple gratitude builds trust
Let rookies learn the why — not just memorize the what
🚒 Real-Life Training & Tactics:
Using tech (YouTube, IG) as modern-day tabletop drills
Changing hose loads, nozzle pressure debates, and field-tested feedback
“If you're not doing something better or safer… why not?”
📣 Shoutout Time:
Kenny Mitchell: Still undefeated in the “first to listen” challenge
Quinn a.k.a. “Little Firefighter”: Our newest (and possibly youngest) superfan
Rebecca: The mystery commenter finally revealed
Andrew: Your RIT team question is on deck — we want more info!
🎁 Giveaway Alert:
Think you can beat Kenny? Be the first to comment on our Friday episode drop (Spotify or Instagram) and win a firehouse prize box!
🧠 Notable Quotes:
“We’re not saying don’t use sick leave. We’re saying don’t screw your buddy to save your Saturday.” – Matt
“Your time isn’t more valuable than mine.” – Brian
“Mentorship means creating a space where rookies feel safe to fail — and strong enough to ask questions.” – Freddy
“Tradition isn’t bad… but don’t let it stop progress.” – Doug
“You’re not better than anyone — this job will humble you.” – Unkie
👻 Halloween PSA:
Parents — be the adult. Firefighters don’t want to respond to tragic calls on Halloween night. Keep your kids safe, stay visible, and don’t be “that house.”
📫 Snail Mail Segment:
We’re loving the DMs, comments, and questions. Keep them coming!
Want to be featured in Snail Mail? Hit us up at thecoolfireman@gmail.com or DM us on TikTok / Instagram.
🎧 Listen Now On:
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube
📅 New episodes drop every Friday at midnight PT
