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Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.)

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Fire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastHandoff to the Fire Family CollectiveIn this episode, Peter McKenzie and Amanda Ellis discuss the transition of the Firehouse Roundtable podcast to the Fire Family Collective, focusing on the importance of community and support for families of firefighters. Amanda shares her personal journey of feeling isolated as a new firefighter's spouse and how connecting with others in similar situations has been transformative. They explore the vision for the Fire Family Collective, including mentorship programs and upcoming resources aimed at supporting families. The conversation emphasizes the need for connection, understanding, and shared experiences within the firefighting community.Host: Capt. Peter McKenzie...2025-05-2230 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastPreviewing the Fire Family CollectiveGuest host Amanda Ellis talks with three other fire spouses, Stephanie Kay, Maggie Hernandez, and Anna Young, about the Ventura Fire Foundation's newest initiative, the Fire Family Collective. To be launched in January 2025, the Fire Family Collective is a supportive digital community for USA fire families offering resources, education, and connection. The Collective will  empower fire families to overcome adversity, strengthen their relationships, and foster a sense of belonging within the fire service community. The discussion on this show taps into many topics the Collective will focus on, including parenting, relationships, and mental health.Host: C...2024-11-1951 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastChanging Firefighter Culture with Chief David RhodesA deep conversation with Chief David Rhodes, a 38-year veteran of the fire service and editor-in-chief of Fire Engineering magazine. They explore the differences between the public and private sectors, the challenges of bureaucracy and generational differences within the fire service. Chief Rhodes shares insights on the importance of training, the cultural shifts in the fire service, and the significance of outside involvement in professional development. The discussion also touches on the Georgia Smoke Diver Program, risk management, and the need for adaptability in firefighting tactics. The episode concludes with reflections on the importance of relationships and collaboration in...2024-10-2459 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastSuccessful Real Estate Investing for FirefightersBrian Waters, LA County Fire Department captain and owner of Code 3 Invest, talks with Peter about his journey in real estate investing. They discuss the importance of diversifying income sources, the risks of relying solely on a firefighter's salary, and the benefits of investing in real estate. Brian shares his personal experience with investing in rental properties and explains why he believes it is a more secure and profitable investment strategy. They also touch on the topic of 457 retirement plans and the potential drawbacks of heavily investing in them. Brian discusses the correlation between the fire service and the...2024-09-1251 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastFirefighter Nonsense with Jason Patton of Fire Department ChroniclesDriver Engineer Jason Patton talks about his journey from mechanic to firefighter to creator of Fire Department Chronicles to Vice President of Fire Department Coffee. They discuss Firefighter Fenton as well as the importance of firefighters having a plan B and not relying on the "firefighter nonsense" they tell you at the academy. Jason also discusses the mental health movement within the fire service. The conversation explores the connection between mental health and masculinity, emphasizing the importance of men being able to talk about their feelings. Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Battalion Chief Jason...2024-08-1540 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastSurvivor's Guilt: The Legacy of 9/11 with Battalion Chief Brian RussoBrian Russo, a battalion chief for FDNY, shares his experience of 9/11 and the aftermath. He discusses the chaos and devastation of that day, the loss of colleagues and friends, and the survivor's guilt he experienced. Russo highlights the importance of mental health support for first responders and the stigma associated with seeking help. He also emphasizes the changes and improvements in command and control, communication, and training that have been implemented since 9/11. Russo's story serves as a reminder of the ongoing impact of the tragedy and the need for continued support and awareness.Hosts: Capt...2024-08-011h 00Fire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastCoping with Trauma and Stress Through Transcendental MeditationIn this episode, Oxnard Fire Chief Alex Hamilton and FDNY Lieutenant/Deputy Director, Counseling Service Unit Drew Kane discuss Transcendental Meditation (TM) and its benefits for firefighters. Drew shares his experience with TM and how it has helped him and other firefighters. Alex emphasizes the importance of taking care of mental health and encourages firefighters to have an open mind about different tools and practices. They address skepticism and highlight the simplicity and cost-effectiveness of TM. The conversation explores the implementation of TM in the fire service and its potential benefits for firefighters' mental health. They also touch on...2024-07-0557 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastCourage and Resilience with Heather Ellis, Ventura City EMS Administrator Part 2Part 2 of a conversation with Ventura City EMS Administrator Heather Ellis, a former firefighter and firefighter's spouse, who shares her personal story of resilience and overcoming domestic violence.  Heather discusses her background in the fire department, the injury that led to a career transition, and the impact of the injury on her home life. She also talks about recognizing the need for help and the importance of peer support. Heather shares her personal journey of being in a relationship with a firefighter who struggled with addiction and mental health issues. Heather discusses the challenges of leading her family through g...2024-05-2339 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastCourage and Resilience with Heather Ellis, Ventura City EMS Administrator Part 1Part 1 of a conversation with Ventura City EMS Administrator Heather Ellis, a former firefighter and firefighter's spouse, who shares her personal story of resilience and overcoming domestic violence. Heather discusses her background in the fire department, the injury that led to a career transition, and the impact of the injury on her home life. She also talks about recognizing the need for help and the importance of peer support. Heather shares her personal journey of being in a relationship with a firefighter who struggled with addiction and mental health issues. Heather discusses the challenges of leading her family through...2024-05-0937 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastFacing Cancer as a Fire FamilyIn this episode, Lisa Corbett and her daughter Brianna (Bri) Corbett discuss their experiences as the family of a firefighter. They talk about the challenges of balancing family life with the unpredictable schedules, the support they received from the fire service community, and the impact of Captain Kevin Corbett's cancer diagnosis on their family. They also touch on the importance of community and accepting help during difficult times. The conversation highlights the need for open communication and the willingness to ask for help. The family reflects on the lessons they learned and the strength they gained from going through...2024-04-2558 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastKicking Cancer's @$$ with Capt. Kevin Corbett of Santa Barbara City Fire and Capt. Scott Jennie (ret.) of the Firefighter Cancer Support NetworkIn this episode, Capt. Kevin Corbett of Santa Barbara City Fire talks about his journey battling stage 4 testicular cancer.  From a Hospice bed  to returning to duty, Kevin's emotional story demonstrates how far we've come in fighting cancer, as well as the importance of a support network. In addition to highlighting the  link between cancer and the fire service, Capt. Scott Jennie (ret.), California State Director for the Firefighter Cancer Support Network, discusses the Firefighter Cancer Support Network's role in providing support and resources to firefighters diagnosed with cancer. The conversation emphasizes the importance of advocacy, early detection, and the...2024-04-1159 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastFrom Fixing Rigs to Assistant Chief: Bill Rigg's Unforgettable CareerIn this episode, retired Ventura City assistant chief Bill Rigg shares his experiences and stories from his career in the fire service. He discusses starting as a firefighter mechanic and the transition to having maintenance done by the city yard. He shares personal stories, including a funny story about a fight between two assistant chiefs. Bill also discusses call volume during his time in the fire service, expansion of fire stations, responding to the Rodney King riots, and he provides retirement advice for current firefighters. Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Battalion Chief Jason Kay...2024-03-281h 00Fire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastGood Grief, Charlie Brown! Next Rung's Charlie Brown talks peer support and future challenges for the fire service.Engineer Paramedic Charlie Brown saw the mental health challenges in the fire service and wanted to do something about it. So he co-founded Next Rung, a national nonprofit that provides free peer, counseling, and treatment support for firefighters and their loved ones. In this conversion, Charlie tells the Next Rung origin story and how they've grown to providing peer support to more than 330 firefighters in 2023.  Charlie also provides insight into the challenges he sees on the horizon for firefighters.  To contact Next Rung for peer support or counseling, call or text 833-NEXT-RUNG. If you are in crisis, please call or...2024-03-1445 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastThe Bravest Fight: Firefighter Nick Hanna's Journey from Darkness to Light - Part 2Santa Cruz City Firefighter Nick Hanna, formerly with Ventura City Fire, talks about his mental health journey over the past year.  Nick's story starts with being "true fireman", engaged with his department and association. Following a significant illness, he began to experience  panic attacks, sleeplessness, PTSD, major depressive disorder, and active  suicidal thoughts. After many dead ends trying to find treatment, an effective combination of therapies was identified and Nick in a better place.  Nick's story is relevant for all firefighters  - and firefighter families - especially those who think mental health is not  their concern.   If you're in crisis...2024-02-2940 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastThe Bravest Fight: Firefighter Nick Hanna's Journey from Darkness to LightSanta Cruz City Firefighter Nick Hanna, formerly with Ventura City Fire, talks about his mental health journey over the past year.  Nick's story starts with being "true fireman", engaged with his department and association. Following a significant illness, he began to experience  panic attacks, sleeplessness, PTSD, major depressive disorder, and active  suicidal thoughts. After many dead ends trying to find treatment, an effective combination of therapies was identified and Nick is in a better place.  Nick's story is relevant for all firefighters  - and firefighter families - especially those who think mental health is not their concern. If you're in cr...2024-02-1543 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastTax Planning for Firefighters with Mike Canny, Vice President of Tax Services with Firefighters First Tax ServicesIn this episode, Mike Canny, a retired firefighter and vice president of tax services at Firefighters First Tax Services, shares his experience in the fire service and his transition to a career in taxes. He discusses common financial mistakes made by firefighters and provides insights into deductible expenses for firefighters. Mike also explains the risks and penalties associated with incorrect deductions and offers tips for long-term financial planning. The conversation covers tax planning for charitable gifts and the impact of 2017 tax law changes on itemized deductions.  Mike emphasizes the benefits of investing in real estate and provides information on t...2024-02-0147 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastJames Boomhower on the State of Mental Heath Care for First RespondersJames Boomhower, MS(c), FP-C, NR-P, C- NPT, CCISM is a critical care paramedic in Massachusetts and founder of Stay Fit 4 Duty, an organization that provides resources and training to healthcare providers and first responders.  In this conversation, James discusses many aspects of mental health support for first responders, including the need to transition from term "culturally competent" to the more inclusive,  "culturally informed", the challenge to provide services to retired first responders,  employee assistance programs (EAP), critical incident stress management (CISM), peer support, and the difference between your identity and your profession..  James also discusses his upcoming webinar, "PTSD...2024-01-1843 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastJulie Cart, Pulitzer Prize Winning Author of the Cal Matters Series, "Trail by Fire: The Trauma of Fighting California’s Wildfires"Julie Cart, Cal Matters reporter talks about her award-winning 2023 series, "Trail by fire: The trauma of fighting California’s wildfires." The discussion covers a wide range of topics, including Cal Fire's reaction to the series, the importance of discussing mental health challenges in the fire service, lessons from the military, and differences between Australia and the US in fighting wildfires. Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Chief Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire FoundationGuest: Julia Cart, Cal MattersLink: https://calmatters.org/series/california-firefighters-trauma-wildfires/Co...2024-01-0459 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastNewly Retired Firefighters Captain Tom Weinell, Engineer Brian Kremer, and Captain Thom Hoffman Discuss Just About EverythingWith 80 combined years in the fire service, newly retired firefighters Captain Tom Weinell, Engineer Brian Kremer, and Captain Thom Hoffman have a lot to say.  This wide-ranging conversation touches on the Thomas Fire, La Conchita mudslides, Jesusita Fire, firehouse hijinks, burnout, changes they've seen in the fire service, their experiences with retirement so far, and much more  Many current and former Ventura City firefighters are namedropped, and many stories are told (a few made it past our censors).  Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Capt. Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire FoundationGue...2023-11-301h 23Fire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastMeet the New Guys Pt. 2 - Ventura City's Newest Firefighters Gurshan Bajwa, Jeremy Hinman, and Stephan ParrishPart 2 of a discussion with Ventura City Fire's newest Firefighters.  Just finished with their probationary period, five new firefighters - Gurshan Bajwa, Jon Ellis, Jeremy Hinman, Stephan Parrish, and Rocky Sanfilippo - talk about what brought them to Ventura, differences between Ventura  City Fire and their previous departments, their career plans, and the suck of 30 minute burpees. Listen in...Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Capt. Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire FoundationGuest: Gurshan BajwaGuest: Jeremy HinmanGuest: Stephan ParrishCo...2023-11-1641 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastMeet the New Guys Pt. 1 - Ventura City's Newest Firefighters Rocky Sanfilippo and Jon EllisPart 1 of a discussion with Ventura City Fire's newest firefighters.  Just finshed with their probationary period, five new firefighters-Gurshan Bajwa, Jon Ellis, Jeremy Hinman, Stephan Parrish, and Rocky Sanfilippo-talk about what brought them to Ventura, differences between Ventura  City Fire and their previous departments, their career plans, and the suck of 30 minute burpees.Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Capt. Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire FoundationGuest: Rocky SanfilippoGuest: Jon Ellis Link: Everyday Ellises Connect with Ventura Fi...2023-11-0735 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastOxnard College Regional Fire Academy's Captain Tami CrudoCaptain Tami Crudo, coordinator for the Oxnard College Regional Fire Academy, talks about being a female in the fire service, mentoring, stress and resilience, and how to prepare to enter the Academy.  Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Capt. Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire FoundationGuest: Captain Tami Crudo of the Oxnard College Regional Fire AcademyConnect with Ventura Fire Foundation on social media: Facebook | Twitter | InstagramSupport the showJOIN US! 👉 https://bit.ly/JoinFireFamilyCollectiveSupport our Mission. 👉 https://bit.ly...2023-10-1954 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastMandos and Mullets with American Fire Brigade's John GaryAmerican Fire Brigade's John Gary talks about the injury that led him to start AFB, protecting your days off, impact of overtime on mental health and family life,  Mandos, and mullets.Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Capt. Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire FoundationGuest: John Gary of American Fire BrigadeConnect with Ventura Fire Foundation on social media: Facebook | Twitter | InstagramSupport the showJOIN US! 👉 https://bit.ly/JoinFireFamilyCollectiveSupport our Mission. 👉 https://bit.ly/Donate2FFCCon...2023-10-0542 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastWhen Your Therapist is Your Spouse with Firefighter Erik Hernandez and Therapist Maggie HernandezFirefighter Erik Hernandez and his wife, associate marriage and family therapist Maggie Hernandez, talk on a wide range of topics, including the benefits of therapy, finding culturally-competent therapists, peer support, PTSD, complex trauma, bio hacks, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, and how they reconcile different approaches to parenting. Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Capt. Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire FoundationGuest: Erik and Maggie Hernandez, 809 Fight for AwarenessLink: Rudeman White Paper on Mental Health and Suicide of First Responders 2023-09-211h 00Fire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastThe "Hot Mess Express" with Audra and Chelsi from Dear Chiefs PodcastAudra and Chelsi, firefighter spouses and hosts of the Dear Chiefs Podcast, provide unvarnished advice for firefighters and their spouses on how to maintain their relationship while in the fire service. They go toe-to-toe with Peter and Jason on firefighter divorce rate,  balancing a firefighting career with family life, and the generational differences they see in firefighters (Gen X/Millennials/Gen Z). Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Capt. Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire FoundationGuest: Audra and Chelsi of Dear ChiefsLink:  Cal Ma...2023-09-071h 17Fire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastCollege Admissions and Financial Aid - What Fire Families Need to Know with Falone Serna, Dean of Undergraduate Admissions and Outreach with California Lutheran UniversityFalone Serna, Dean of Undergraduate Admissions and Outreach with California Lutheran University solves the mystery of getting into and paying for college. Dean Serna provides practical advice on deciding if college is the right path after high school, how to choose a school that's a great fit, what schools look for in students, how NOT to pay sticker price, and how to ensure the investment in college pays off (hint: going to college is like going to the gym).Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Capt. Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire Foundation2023-08-2459 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastOxnard Fire Chief Alex Hamilton on Behavioral Health, Sleep Deprivation, Peer Support, and Taking Care of His Firefighters.Oxnard Fire Chief Alex Hamilton, considered one of the most forward-thinking chiefs in the country, covers a wide range of important topics, including behavioral health, sleep deprivation, call volume, peer support, the value of networking, Movember, grantwriting, advice for firefighters looking to promote, how the COVID pandemic led to greater collaboration among fire departments,  and his vision for a first responder wellness center in Ventura.  Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Capt. Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire FoundationGuest: Alex HamiltonLink: 9-11 Memorial Stair Climb  2023-08-101h 13Fire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastEstate Planning for Firefighters with Roy Schneider, Esq., and Jessica Villar, Esq.Roy Schneider and Jessica Villar, attornies with Schneiders & Associates law firm, join the show to talk about what nobody wants to discuss...what happens to your property and family if you die or are incapacited. Bottom line: nothing good unless you take the proper steps now. Learn all about wills versus trusts, avoiding probate, and how to ensure your wishes are carried out. Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Capt. Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire FoundationGuest Company:  Schneiders & AssociatesGuest: Roy Schneider, Esq.2023-07-2753 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastSleep Hacks with Sean Toomey, Co-Founder of First Responder Sleep RecoverySean Toomey, firefighter with Denver Fire Department and Operations Captain for the Clear Creek Fire Authority, co-founded First Responder Sleep Recovery with his wife Jacqueline to empower the health and wellness of those who serve in the fire, police, and emergency services. Sean joins the show to explain how sleep is connected to heart disease, cancer, and other diseases and to provide easy-to-implement hacks to help first responders (and everyone else) achieve better sleep.Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Capt. Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire FoundationGuest: Sean Toomey,2023-07-131h 00Fire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastMynda Ohs, PhD. on Preparing For and Adjusting To Firefighter RetirementDr. Mynda Ohs,  marriage and family therapist and author of Fully Involved: A Guide for Being in a Relationship with a Firefighter, talks about her new book When the Calls Stop: Retiring as a First Responder. Drawing on her own family's experience and input from hundreds of first responders, Mynda provides practical advice -- for both spouses -- on how to successfully transition away from the firehouse. Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Capt. Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire FoundationGuest: Mynda Ohs, PhD, Fully Involved Life  Li...2023-06-291h 01Fire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastBehind the Mustache with Firefighter Fenton and Mrs. Firefighter FentonBrent and Stephanie Fenton (a.k.a. Firefighter Fenton and Mrs. Firefighter Fenton) discuss how Firefighter Fenton originated, where the character is going, the role of humor in mental health, and building a life outside the fire service.Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Capt. Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire FoundationGuest: Brent Fenton (aka Firefighter Fenton), Daisy Mountain Fire DepartmentFollow Firefighter Fenton on Facebook | Instagram Guest: Stephanie Fenton (a.k.a. Mrs. Firefighter Fenton),Follow Steph’s Cookie Cre...2023-06-151h 00Fire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastLife in a Fire Family with Madeline and Erin, Ventura City Fire Captain Thom Hoffman's DaughtersMadeline and Erin Hoffman, two of Ventura City Fire Captain Thom Hoffman's children, talk about growing up in a fire family. They swap stories about the "cool" benefits of having a firefighter dad as well as the additional stress the fire service added to their family. Madeline and Erin provide practical advice for younger fire kids, including how to deal with "Captain Mode."Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Capt. Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire FoundationGuest: Madeline Hoffman Guest: Erin Hoffman ...2023-06-011h 05Fire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastFire Captain Kyle Tong, G.O.A.T. of GrantsVentura City Fire Captain Kyle Tong joins the show to talk about how he went from teaching snowboarding to five-year-olds to becoming one of the youngest fire captains in Ventura City history. Tong, a.k.a. the "G.O.A.T. of Grants", also talks about his success in securing nearly $8 million in funding for the Ventura City Fire Department. Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Capt. Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire FoundationGuest: Captain Kyle Tong, Ventura Fire Department Connect with Ventura Fire Foundation on...2023-05-1851 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastReal Estate Investing with District of Columbia Firefighter Aaron FosterAaron Foster has been a firefighter for 24 years, the last 19 of those with the District of Columbia Fire Department. Not only that, Aaron has been successfully investing in real estate for 20 years, hosts the First Responder Financial Freedom podcast, and owns a small woodworking company in College Park, Maryland. Aaron shares his story, why he started investing in real estate, strategies for successful real estate investing, and the FITFO mentality.Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Capt. Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire FoundationGuest: Firefighter Aaron Foster, District of...2023-05-041h 08Fire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastVentura City Fire Chief David Endaya on The Department's FutureVentura City Fire Chief David Endaya discusses the Department's future, changes in the fire service over the last 20 years, the role of first responders, and firefighters' mental health.Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Capt. Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire FoundationGuest: Chief David Endaya, Ventura City Fire DepartmentConnect with Ventura Fire Foundation on social media: Facebook | Twitter | InstagramSupport the showJOIN US! 👉 https://bit.ly/JoinFireFamilyCollectiveSupport our Mission. 👉 https://bit.ly/Donate2FFCConnect with u...2023-04-201h 04Fire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastImproving Firefighters' Health and Longevity with Physical Therapist Jim Magnusson, Dr. Phil Long, and Coach Justin ReadingPhysical Therapist Jim Magnusson, Dr. Phil Long, and Coach Justin Reading of Performance Wellness and Injury Prevention have worked with firefighters for many years. Their motto is "Trust, Commitment to Excellence, and Care," and that's exactly what these guys do. They discuss the unique considerations when working with firefighters, preventing injuries, increasing mobility, preparing for the fire academy, and the connections between physical and mental health.Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Capt. Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire FoundationGuest: Jim Magnusson, Performance Wellness and Injury Prevention...2023-04-0658 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastPractical Advice for Firefighter Spouses with Author (and Military Spouse) Lizann LightfootAs a military spouse, Lizann Lightfoot can relate to the daily challenges and trials that most firefighter spouses go through. She's the author of "Open When: Letters of Encouragement for Military Spouses" and the "Seasoned Spouse" blog. Lizann discusses the importance of practicing self-care, building a support network, learning to adjust to your spouse's absence, and preparing for retirement.  Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Capt. Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire FoundationGuest: Lizann Lightfoot, The Seasoned Spouse BlogLink: Firefighters Ball and Award Ceremony 2023-03-231h 01Fire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastHope the Therapy Dog with Heather Ellis and Nancy MitchellVentura City Fire has a therapy dog, Hope, to help firefighters work through the emotional stress of their jobs. Hope's handler, EMS Coordinator Heather Ellis, and trainer, VIP Dog Team Owner Nancy Mitchell join the show to talk all about Hope and lift the curtain on what it takes to be a therapy dog for firefighters. Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Capt. Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire FoundationGuest: Heather Ellis, Ventura Fire DepartmentGuest: Nancy Mitchell, VIP Dog TeamsLink: ...2023-03-0949 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastPreparing for Financial Independence with Retired Firefighter Steve PetersonRetired firefighter Steve Peterson has successfully purchased and managed rental properties in Ventura for over 30 years. Starting while he was an active firefighter, Steve looked for ways to invest his money and, while it hasn't always been easy, he's now been retired for 20 years and is financially secure. Steve provides advice on a wide range of topics, from managing your finances to purchasing income-generating rental properties, to preparing for retirement. Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Capt. Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire FoundationGuest: Engineer Steve Peterson L...2023-02-2354 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastDr. Ryan Sharma Talks About the Psychological Needs of FirefightersDr. Ryan Sharma, contract psychologist with Oxnard Fire Department and Associate Professor/Director of Clinical Training at Cal Lutheran University, joins the show to talk about his work helping firefighters, discuss firefighter sleep deprivation, and provide practical advice on how firefighters can spot a colleague in need.  Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Capt. Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire FoundationGuest: Dr. Ryan Sharma, Cal Lutheran University, Oxnard Fire Department - Private PracticeLink: Contact Dr. Sharma dr.ryansharma@gmail.comConnect with V...2023-02-0853 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastAshley Iverson, Executive Director of the Iverson Foundation for Active Awareness and Widow of Cal Fire Firefighter Corey IversonAshley Iverson talks about losing her husband, Corey Iverson, in the Thomas Fire and how she uses the Iverson Foundation for Active Awareness to advocate for, and provide, mental health support for firefighters and their families. Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Capt. Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire FoundationGuest: Ashley Iverson, Iverson Foundation for Active AwarenessLink: Iverson Foundation for Active AwarenessLink: Thomas FireLink: Yarnell Hill FireConnect with Ventura Fire Foundation...2023-01-2654 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastTiffany Atalla, Licensed Marriage and Family TherapistTiffany Atalla, licensed marriage and family therapist AND fire wife, talks about how to improve first responder family life and connectedness among first responder families. Tiffany also talks about the trained peer support program for spouses that she helped create at her husband's fire department, as well as an upcoming (2/9/2023) training she will be conducting for Ventura area fire spouses.  Listen in...Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Capt. Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire FoundationGuest: Tiffany Atalla, MFT - First Responder Wellness, Shift Wellness, Counseling Team International, Best Solutions T...2023-01-1252 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastThomas Fire StoriesThe Thomas Fire was the largest wildfire in California history, when it broke out on December 4, 2017. Four Ventura City firefighters who battled the blaze that first night--Battalion Chief Douglas Miser, Captain Luke Mitchell, Captain Mark Neilsen, and Captain Chris Plessner (ret.)--join the Firehouse Roundtable to talk about their experiences, the difficulty of battling a wildfire that threatens your own community and loved ones, and the impact of the Thomas Fire on their mental health. Listen in...Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Capt. Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire FoundationGuests:2022-12-291h 19Fire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastBeing a Firefighter Family, with Career Firemen Captain Myles Smith (ret.) and Engineer Austin FoulkeCaptain Myles Smith (ret.) and Engineer Austin Foulke talk about being a firefighter family and the accident that forced Myles' retirement. Myles also tells a few stories from the 1980s, '90s, and 2000s, and reveals his legendary halibut recipe! Listen in...Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Capt. Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire FoundationGuests: Captain Myles Smith (ret.) and Engineer Austin Foulke of Ventura City FireLink: News Story of Myles' Injury (Fire captain severely injured fighting Ventura brush fire Sunday)...2022-12-1542 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastFounder of Flying Embers, Bill Moses, on the Thomas Fire and His Resulting Commitment to Supporting FirefightersFlying Embers founder and CEO Bill Moses talks about his harrowing experience in the Thomas Fire and how it led to the Flying Embers organic alcohol brand. For 3 nights, Bill witnessed the power of nature, as well as firefighters' skill and determination in battling it. In that moment (and in gratitude to them), Bill dedicated himself and Flying Embers to supporting firefighters by giving back 1% of all sales to firefighter causes. Listen in...Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Capt. Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire FoundationGuest: Bill Moses, Founder...2022-12-0138 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastEngineer and Paramedic Will Nackers Talks About the Marines, His Purple Heart, PTSD, and Creating a LegacyVentura City Fire Engineer/Paramedic Will Nackers discusses his military service, being wounded in action, PTSD, and creating a legacy. Will also discusses the September 11th Memorial Stair Climb, which he organized. Listen in...Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Capt. Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire FoundationGuest: Will Nackers of the Ventura City Fire DepartmentConnect with Ventura Fire Foundation on social media: Facebook | Twitter | InstagramSupport the showJOIN US! 👉 https://bit.ly/JoinFireFamilyCollectiveSupport our Mission. 👉 https://bit.ly...2022-11-171h 03Fire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastMarried Firefighters Amber and Jeremy Henderson on Spousal Challenges and TraumaA conversation with married firefighters, Battalion Chief Amber Henderson (CAL Fire) and Captain Jeremy Henderson (Ventura City Fire). Amber and Jeremy discuss their careers, the challenges of being a firefighter spouse, and overcoming trauma. Listen in...Hosts: Capt. Peter McKenzie (ret.) and Capt. Jason Kay from the Ventura Fire FoundationGuests: Battalion Chief Amber Henderson (CAL Fire) and Captain Jeremy Henderson (Ventura City Fire) | Email Amber: amberlgrant@mac.comConnect with Ventura Fire Foundation on social media: Facebook | Twitter | InstagramSupport the show2022-11-0454 minFire Family Collective PodcastFire Family Collective PodcastWelcome to the Firehouse Roundtable, brought to you by the Ventura Fire FoundationPeter and Jason introduce themselves and discuss what to expect from the Firehouse Roundtable podcast. The kitchen table is the heart of the firehouse. It’s where those who are “Always Ready” bond over shared war stories of a career in the fire department and its impact on their everyday lives, including their families and both their physical and mental health. On Firehouse Roundtable, we’ll bring you those stories, so you can be a fly on the wall around the firehouse kitchen table. Your hosts Capts. Peter McKenzie (retired) and Jason Kay (active) lead these conversations exploring all aspects...2022-10-1816 minFutility ClosetFutility ClosetLost Off Newfoundland In 1883 fisherman Howard Blackburn was caught in a blizzard off the coast of Newfoundland. Facing bitter cold in an 18-foot boat, he passed through a series of harrowing adventures in a desperate struggle to stay alive and find help. In this week's episode of the Futility Closet podcast we'll follow Blackburn's dramatic story, which made him famous around the world. We'll also admire a runaway chicken and puzzle over a growing circle of dust. Intro: During Oxfordshire's annual stag hunt in 1819, the quarry took refuge in a chapel. With...2018-07-1633 min