Shows
Better Every ShiftCritical connections: The challenges and solutions in public safety communicationWhether responding to a medical emergency, coordinating disaster relief, or ensuring officer safety in high-risk situations, public safety radio systems provide mission-critical communications that enable first responders to fulfill their missions.
What does it take to ensure these systems remain functional, interoperable and adequately funded?
This special episode of the Better Every Shift podcast, sponsored by Kenwood, features a panel discussion on public safety radio systems. Guest host FireRescue1 Editorial Director Greg Friese speaks with three emergency management and communications experts about the vital role of radio communications in emergency response, the obstacles agencies face...2025-03-2152 minBetter Every ShiftIntroducing the Firefighter Mayday Survey with Lt. Bassel IbrahimOrlando Lt. Bassel Ibrahim is carrying the mayday research torch through the launch of the Firefighter Mayday Survey. The project is a variation and continuation of Don Abbott’s Project Mayday following the chief’s death in 2022. Ibrahim shares what drove him to take on such a huge project, which shares real-world mayday and near-miss data to improve firefighter safety, training and tactics. We dig into all things mayday research, plus all this:
Proactive vs. reactive RIT
RIT’s role as jack-of-all-trades
Switching radio channels
The problem with LUNAR
Ibrahi...2025-01-301h 07
Better Every ShiftExtra Alarm: Leading through the political conversation at the kitchen tableWelcome to FireRescue1’s Extra Alarm – your audible source of original content from FireRescue1. This week’s insights come to us from Eric Latimer, division chief of fire operations for the Springfield (Missouri) Fire Department. Latimer discusses how best to navigate political conversations at the firehouse kitchen table, and emphasizes the need to maintain respect and unity, despite differing opinions, to uphold the mission of effective service delivery. Listen to the end for additional insights from Chief Marc Bashoor.
2025-01-2108 minBetter Every ShiftExtra Alarm: Fire is fire no matter what you call itWelcome to FireRescue1’s Extra Alarm – your audible source of original content from FireRescue1. This week’s episode insights come to us from Linda Willing, a retired career fire officer, who makes the case that too many deaths and injuries have occurred secondary to training incidents where live fire was a factor. Specifically, Willing’s article highlights two tragic incidents – one in Miami, Florida, and another in Boulder, Colorado – that underscore the critical need for safety during firefighter training exercises. Listen to the end for additional insights from Chief Marc Bashoor.
2025-01-1407 minBetter Every ShiftExtra Alarm: Bridging the gap between firefighters and the 40-hour worldWelcome to FireRescue1’s Extra Alarm – your audible source of original content from FireRescue1. In this inaugural episode, learn how to minimize scheduling strains and mission misalignment between the department’s shift-workers and administrative workforce, insights courtesy of Chris Paskett, a battalion chief with Eugene Springfield (Oregon) Fire.
Listen to FireRescue1 content when you’re out and about, driving to or from work, when you’re looking for some alone time at the station or during your career development time. Listen to the end for additional insights from Chief Marc Bashoor.
2025-01-0709 minBetter Every ShiftFirefighter gift deals tastier than turkeyIt’s time to make your list and check it twice to ensure you’re covered this holiday season. Unsure what to buy for your firefighter friends and family or even your crewmembers? You can skip the line for Santa because the real magic is at TheFireStore.com, which is offering a 15% discount to Better Every Shift listeners from Nov. 21-30. Listen in for the code to ensure you grab the best firefighter gifts without breaking the bank.
This episode of the Better Every Shift Podcast is sponsored by TheFireStore. Learn more about getting the gear you need...2024-11-2157 minBetter Every ShiftChief Derek Alkonis: ‘Everything you do is focused on life safety’“There's so much we don't know about fires. We're still killing firefighters. We're still killing people in fires. There's still so much to know and to do differently.” Chief Derek Alkonis, who serves as a research program manager for UL’s Fire Safety Research Institute, shares his passion for learning about fire dynamics and how best to translate fire behavior research into actionable lessons – and updated tactics – for firefighters. Plus, we dig into all of this:
The Mike Singletary analogy for “aggressive” firefighting
Why the Lahaina fire moved so fast and Alkonis’ current work on the fire investi...2024-11-141h 09Better Every ShiftGreatest Hits: Chief Leeb returns to mark 100 episodes – and brings friendsTo help Better Every Shift commemorate 100episodes, Chief Frank Leeb returns (again), this time with several surprise guests, live from the recent pro-wrestling-themed Brothers Helping Brothers event – a perfect example of the collaboration among the “Misfit Nation,” all working together to row in the same direction for the betterment of the fire service. There’s a lot happening, so buckle up for an action-packed show that may or may not go totally off the rails in the best possible way. Tune in for some great nuggets of wisdom, peppered with plenty of shenanigans:
How to pin firefighter health
The WWE...2024-11-071h 10Better Every Shift‘We changed the entire dynamic’: Chief Mike Cunningham talks recruitmentRecruitment challenges continue to plague many fire departments, but there are simple ways to address the root issues head on – the key is knowing where to find the start button. Dr. Michael Cunningham, division chief for Cobb County (Georgia) Fire, helps members take those initial steps toward change. The chief also details how his department retooled their own hiring process. Plus, we dig into all of this:
How a more transient workforce changes recruitment and retention efforts
Inadvertent barriers that could discourage or prevent people from joining the fire service
A disturbing story about AARs … in the shower
Why...2024-10-311h 04Better Every Shift‘It feels good to do good’: Kurt DeGroot talks Project Fire BuddiesIt all started with a single question after transporting a kid battling leukemia: How can we do more? Kurt DeGroot noticed that the boy always perked up when firefighters responded to his home, so he asked the boy’s mom if the crew could stop by again sometime – make a big splash about it with the lights and sirens blaring, this time for fun. “These kids are always known as the sick kid, and now they get this badge of honor because they're buddies with the firefighters, right?” The idea took off, and DeGroot continued connecting firefighters with critically ill chil...2024-10-2458 minBetter Every ShiftHurricane deployment: Trevor Frodge details his USAR team experience“We’re trying to make a difference wherever we can,” says West Chester (Ohio) Training Chief Trevor Frodge about the devastation he witnessed during a three-week deployment to North Carolina and Florida with Ohio Task Force 1, one of FEMA’s USAR teams responding to hurricanes Helene and Milton. Frodge describes his team’s assignments and shares an inside look at how USAR teams operate once on the scene. Plus, we dig into all this:
Reaction to FEMA misinformation
How to join a USAR task force
The power of timed skills training
Why pre-ar...2024-10-171h 05Better Every Shift‘Let your people run’: Chief Josh Waldo on empowering your membersServing as IAFC president is a time-consuming job that requires a lot of travel – time away from the fire department. New president Josh Waldo reflects on how the initial angst of releasing the reins to others to shoulder more of the work at home in Bozeman, Montana, can become great pride in seeing those members succeed, even create new and improved ways to get the job done. It’s all part of the prioritization process needed to serve the department, the association and the fire service as a whole. We dig into striking this balance, plus all this:
Wald...2024-10-0359 minBetter Every ShiftChief Eric Valliere: ‘Safety isn’t about backing off’“NOT. HERE.” Scottsdale (Arizona) Assistant Chief Eric Valliere gets fired up talking about preventing firefighter line-of-duty deaths because “it’s a passion to keep your people safe.” The problem is that too many people are losing the true meaning of safety, he says, underscoring that safety isn’t about backing off; it’s about making sure your members are set up for success. We dig into all of this, plus:
Valliere’s fireground safety pet peeve
The leadership “give a crap factor”
The power of removing roadblocks for your members
The upcoming FDSOA confe...2024-09-261h 01Better Every Shift‘The wins are all in the details’: Trisha Wolford on making members feel heardTrisha Wolford got her fire service start with the Anne Arundel County (Maryland) Fire Department, and 13 years later, she returned as its fire chief – a full circle moment that helped shape her perspective on leadership. Wolford details how she worked to build trust among the membership through transparency and making members feel heard. She also shares what it was like to be deemed a “DEI hire” while addressing some of the misconceptions about DEI efforts in the fire service. Plus, we dig into this:
The leap from art major to fire chief
“Don’t call them” and other tips for rec...2024-09-191h 12Better Every ShiftZam on the hot seat: ‘It’s been a crazy ride’Zam and Janelle are trading places on this week’s show, with Zam in the hot seat to share some insights from his fire service career, as well as a peek behind the podcast curtain. Plus, we get into all this:
Zam’s 30-something fire service origin story
5 lessons for new lieutenants
His pre-fire service life involving bartending and cadavers – a bad combination
New opportunities via the First Responder Center for Excellence
Why everything comes back to the Wisconsin Badgers
This episode of the Better Every Shift Podcas...2024-09-1257 minBetter Every Shift‘Take charge of your health’: How one captain caught his cancerIn 2017, after experiencing headaches, Berkeley (California) Fire Captain Chris van Luen had an MRI that showed a pea-size tumor at the base of his brain. No one told him or put him on a monitoring program. Four years later, knowing his increased exposure to toxins, van Luen got a full-body MRI. As doctors shared the news that the tumor had quadrupled in size, the earlier detection was revealed to a shocked van Luen. While many would have been infuriated about the mistake, van Luen chose to move past that part of the experience quickly to focus on managing the...2024-08-221h 03Better Every Shift‘This is big’: Chief Tom Jenkins talks NERIS“This is arguably the most transformational project that has occurred in fire and emergency response maybe since America Burning was published and the Fire Prevention and Control Act was passed – and I don't think I'm being dramatic. This is big.” Chief Tom Jenkins clearly isn’t shy about the future impact of the National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS), which will ultimately replace the legacy National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS) – a shift that will impact every fire department. Jenkins, who serves as the research program manager with UL’s Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI), details how NERIS will change the g...2024-07-1858 minBetter Every Shift‘The magic is us’: Captain Frank Leto talks peer supportPost-9/11, there was an attempt to embed psychologists in firehouses, but that approach didn’t work, as the firefighters just ended up counseling the psychologists: “We realized that the magic was us … we’re the ones that keep each other going,” explains FDNY Captain (ret.) Frank Leto. And so began the expansion of the FDNY Counseling Service Unit for which Leto served for years as deputy director, building peer support teams to help other first responders through a variety of incidents beyond Sept. 11 and industries beyond the fire service. And that mission continues today, as Leto works with several organizati...2024-07-111h 12Better Every ShiftPPE for truckies: Jeff Stull breaks down the NFPA standards changes aheadThere has been considerable discussion about the pending consolidation of four PPE standards on clothing, work uniforms, SCBA and PASS devices into one PPE mega-standard: NFPA 1970. PPE expert Jeff Stull, president of International Personnel Protection Inc., shares the inside scoop on the likely changes to come based on a recent technical committee meeting. He also provides guidance on the unique standards update process and how the NFPA works to strike a balance between what’s best for the safety of firefighters without causing undue stress for fire departments.
Additional resources:
The NFPA Standards Series
On-demand webinar: Ho...2024-06-2755 minBetter Every Shift‘I don’t like close games; I like blowouts’: Nicol Juratovac talks aggressive fire attackThe best words San Francisco Assistant Chief Nicol Juratovac heard when she got on the job 27 years ago were “interior offensive aggressive attack” – and she’s still advancing that mindset to her crews and students today. As she explains on this week’s podcast, when it comes to fireground tactics, Juratovac wants to dominate and smash the enemy (aka fire) with so much force that it has no chance of victory – and she does that by being a student of the game day in and day out, honing her skills on everything from incident command and apparatus positioning to forcible ent...2024-06-061h 16Better Every Shift‘Every skill has a shelf life’: Safety Stand Down spotlights back-to-basics fire training“This is one week we’re giving ourselves,” Captain Jim Barnhart of the FDSOA underscores about participating in the Firefighter Safety Stand Down – a unique opportunity for fire and EMS departments to collectively suspend non-emergency activity to focus on this year’s theme, Fire Training: Back to Basics. Joining Barnhart to dig into all the training resources are Deputy Chief Darin Wallentine from the IAFC’s Safety, Health and Survival section and Battalion Chief Grady Valencis from the IAFF, detailing the five daily focus areas for this year’s event and the 12 foundations of fire department training.
Plus, we get i...2024-05-1654 minBetter Every Shift‘I’m definitely not a quitter’: Kate Smith on EMS and obstacle racing as an amputee“I absolutely do have bad days. I just make sure I don’t let myself give up.” EMT Kate Smith, who began her public safety journey as a junior firefighter and EMS explorer at 14, before becoming a below-the-knee amputee at 16, shares how EMS helped reveal an inner strength that propelled her to where she is today – working to complete paramedic school, training for obstacle course races and inspiring others through her Adaptive Kate TikTok videos. Plus, we dig into all this:
The high school job shadow requirement that drove her love of public safety
How her work in EMS ulti...2024-05-0954 minBetter Every Shift‘The impact is generational’: An award-winning rescue provides perspectiveIt was a “constant state of readiness” that contributed to the successful rescue of an unconscious victim from a structure fire – an incident that ultimately earned Hilton Head Island (S.C.) Fire Rescue FAO Brendan Horlbeck, Lt. Sean Kavlick and Battalion Chief David Bell the 2023 IAFC Ben Franklin Award of Valor. Bell, Kavlick and Horlbeck detail the incident response, plus get into all this:
How a unique dispatch note was the difference between life and death
The generational impact of a single rescue
The urgent reminder that this type of fire could happen to any...2024-05-021h 00Better Every Shift‘A lot to absorb’: Here’s what you missed at FDIC 2024“It’s about bells and whistles, but it’s also about smiles and connecting.” Another FDIC has come and gone, but our cohosts are joined by The Fire Store’s Amanda Keesey to talk conference highlights and which industry innovations garnered the most attention on the exhibit floor. Plus, we dig into all this:
Emerging solutions for electric vehicle fires
How the industry is leaning into health and wellness
The demand for flashlights
Additional resources:
National Firefighter Registry (NFR) for Cancer
FireRescue1's FDIC coverage
This episo...2024-04-2550 minBetter Every ShiftCorley Moore: ‘I understand how insidious and seductive complacency is’The Better Every Shift team is at FDIC this week, so we’re reaching into the vault to re-release one of our favorite episodes. Battalion Chief Corley Moore talks all things fire service culture, toxic leadership and how to fight your way back from complacency. Chief Moore – founder of Firehouse Vigilance and host of the Weekly Scrap podcast – details his own evolution from struggling with complacency to now serving as a motivational speaker and instructor. Plus, we dig into all of this:
Moore’s empathy for burned out, complacent members
The origins of the “The 9L’s: Keys to High Perf...2024-04-181h 03Better Every ShiftLt. Zam goes to Emmitsburg: Insights from a National Fire Academy first-timer“Our mission is to support you in your mission.” Eriks Gabliks, superintendent of the National Fire Academy, joins the show to talk all things NFA programs and goals, and to hear about Zam’s first time visiting the campus and experiencing NFA life.
Gabliks knocks down the top excuses firefighters give for why they can’t attend the academy and details how the program is continually evolving in sync with fire service culture. Plus, we dig into all this:
How the campus experience rejuvenates passion for the fire service
The American history embedded in the N...2024-04-111h 01Better Every Shift‘We’re going (100 miles per week) streaking!’ with FF/ultra-runner Andy GlazeCaptain Andy Glaze is on a four-year streak of running 100+ miles per week, and while he’s not suggesting that all firefighters attempt the same feat, he does urge movement: “Movement is medicine.” Glaze shares his journey from drinking and smoking to becoming an ultra-marathon runner, and how physical fitness helped him manage his mental health. From ultra anxiety to ultra resilience, Glaze describes the power of setting goals, finding motivation in embracing challenges, and the importance of community. Plus, we dig into all this:
The power of ice baths – misery during and elation after
Running laps around the stati...2024-03-2151 minBetter Every Shift‘Build your band’: Country music star Frank Ray on the power of peer support“I saved George Strait’s life, and he doesn’t even know.” Country star Frank Ray shares that story and many more as he details his unique journey from law enforcement to the music scene. Ray recently visited more than 50 fire and police departments across the U.S. and Canada to spotlight first responder mental health, addressing the power of forming a support system and speaking up about personal struggles.
Plus, we did into all of this:
Ray’s mental health initiative, FRAY
How music impacted his first responder career
Why having a hobby outside of work is cr...2024-03-1454 minBetter Every Shift‘You saved Hawkeye’: Inside the Jeremy Renner snowplow incident response“Every second mattered.” When actor Jeremy Renner was severely injured in a snowcat accident last year, Truckee Meadows Fire Rescue crews’ swift action and medical intervention played a crucial role in saving Renner's life. TMFR Firefighter-Paramedic Alex Hughes and Captain Greg Lompa join the show to share operational details from the call, plus we dig into all this:
The critical role of teamwork amid equipment failures
Why backup plans are a key part of public safety planning
Preparing for weather-related obstacles at challenging scenes
“It's not about the limelight; it's about being ab...2024-03-0739 minBetter Every Shift‘What is your learning culture?’: Chris Paskett details how to encourage idea-sharing“Do your folks come to work expecting to learn something new? Or is it a surprise when they are asked to go to a class or a drill? That’s culture.” Battalion Chief Chris Paskett wants to create a culture of learning in the fire service, where organizational education is baked into the daily routine. He offers four (of 20!) areas where departments can seek to encourage a top-down focus on continuing education and ways to evolve the culture to support that goal.
Plus, we did into all of this:
How to create bite-sized daily trainings that move t...2024-02-2957 minBetter Every ShiftChief Bryan Frieders: We need Super Bowl-level efforts to conquer firefighter cancerChief Bryan Frieders is fired up about preventing occupational cancer – fired up to the point where he’s putting firefighters of all ranks on blast for not doing everything possible to prevent an often-preventable disease. He calls out firefighters for not wearing their SCBA, cleaning their gear and taking care of their health (“Why are we risking our lives? Stupidity.”), as well as leaders who don’t prioritize member health and safety (“If you’re old school, then you’re lost”). And having just worked the Super Bowl, among many other large-scale events, Frieders considers the connections between preparing for big events and...2024-02-151h 08Better Every ShiftRocco Alvaro: ‘Once you stop developing others, it’s time for you to leave’Fairfax County (Virginia) Battalion Chief Rocco Alvaro is passionate about professional development, but he wasn’t always on a clear path himself. In fact, it took a metaphorical “punch in the face” from a mentor for him to go back to school and walk the professional development walk – and he’s incredibly grateful for the punch.
Alvaro joins Better Every Shift this week to talk all things professional development, including where departments can begin with standing up their own programs. Plus we get into all this:
How fire departments can follow a “farm team” model;
The three foundati...2024-02-0859 minBetter Every ShiftJason Patton: ‘I’m not making fun of people!’Jason Patton loves talking to people, even if it wasn’t always easy for him. The first firefighter-influencer of the YouTube viral video era explains his initial struggles with public speaking – the ultimate example of getting out of your comfort zone to make great things happen (think Fire Department Chronicles, among many other great ventures). That’s why we’re returning to Patton’s show this week, not only because it’s one of our most popular episodes of all time, but because the messages are vital for new and long-time listeners alike.
Plus, we get into all this:2024-01-2544 minBetter Every ShiftIntroducing the Resilient 50: Your back-to-basics health routineWho doesn’t love a little healthy competition – the keyword there being healthy. Zam has created the Resilient 50 Challenge to help firefighters get real about getting healthy in the new year. It’s a back-to-basics approach that spans a spectrum of lifestyle habits, all designed to make you a more resilient firefighter. After all, health isn’t solely about losing weight or getting in shape; it’s about staying hydrated, sleeping better, feeding your brain and, really, any goals you set to help you be better every shift.
Here’s how it works: Zam has identified 10 key habits for i...2024-01-111h 05Better Every Shift‘The podcast of misfit firefighters’ team reflects on 2023“We’re a bunch of misfits, and we’re not alone,” Zam says of the dedicated listeners who are committed to making themselves better every shift, every year.
Closing out 2023, the crew reflects on the top episodes of the year and what made them so memorable, plus the most popular content on FireRescue1. And don’t miss Zam and Janelle's “words for 2024.”
This episode of the Better Every Shift Podcast is sponsored by TheFireStore. Learn more about getting the gear you need at prices you can afford by visiting TheFireStore.
Enjoying the show? Please take a m...2023-12-281h 09Better Every ShiftLi-ion battery fires: Barowy and Goldfeder tackle the ‘spaghetti’ of tactical considerations“Just when I think I’m ready to handle any fire you throw my way, now this comes along.” Deputy Chief Billy Goldfeder channels Al Pacino in “The Godfather” when discussing the complexities of lithium-ion battery fires with Adam Barowy, lead research engineer with UL’s Fire Safety Research Institute. Barowy and Goldfeder break down the science behind Li-ion batteries and what makes operational options so challenging to navigate.
The team digs into all these factors dominating ‘The Lithium-ion Years’:
The impact of various products on containing these fires;
The logistics of relocating the burning battery;
The questions we...2023-12-1454 minBetter Every ShiftChief Frank Leeb returns: Make yourself ‘difficult to injure, impossible to kill’To help Better Every Shift mark its milestone 1-year anniversary, our very first guest, FDNY Chief of Safety Frank Leeb, returns to the show to talk all things leadership, safety and training – including the critical mindset that “we owe it to our loved ones to be better every day to make sure that we are making ourselves difficult to injure and impossible to kill.”
Plus, we dig into all this:
What Leeb believes will keep fire chiefs up at night for the next 20 years
Key principles from Leeb’s new book, “Cornerstones of Leadership,” including his favorite chap...2023-11-301h 12Better Every ShiftFire up the festivities: 5 great gifts for your crew’Tis the season for gratitude – and gift-giving! And today’s show is all about both. We’re gearing up for the holidays by sharing some great firefighter gift ideas. These products are all available on TheFireStore.com to whom we are exceedingly grateful, as they are a generous sponsor of the podcast. Guiding us through our gift options is Amanda Keesey, a fourth-generation firefighter in Pennsylvania, who also serves as a merchandising manager for Witmer Public Safety Group. (Listen in to get a discount code from TheFireStore!)
Don’t miss: The two products Keesey covets from TheFireStore.com
Power quot...2023-11-2243 minBetter Every Shift‘We are anti-fragile’: How firefighters can get stronger through challengesToday’s episode digs into a variety of psychological concepts that impact firefighter work and home life, all courtesy of Dr. Derrick Edwards, a nearly 20-year fire service veteran who also serves as a professional counselor and a mental health service provider. Dr. Edwards introduces a lot of new terms and concepts, including anti-fragile, psyche ache, urge-surfing, the end-of-days fallacy, and his favorite, the white bear, all to help us better understand ourselves – our emotions, reactions, stress and coping skills. Edwards – aka “Father ’Stache” – also shares how he became a fire service chaplain and why chaplaincy is so similar to counseling...2023-11-161h 03Better Every Shift‘I connect the dots’: Joe Minogue on the power of relationship-buildingFDNY Lt. (ret.) Joe Minogue – “my guy Joe!” as Zam likes to say – joins Better Every Shift to offer a window into his innate ability to connect people – firefighters, families, friends, really anyone. If you need a connection, Joe’s your guy, too. Minogue currently serves as the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation liaison to the FDNY and the Phoenix Society of Burn Survivors, but his commitment to service extends to so much more, including his time as an FDNY bugler, his work coordinating 9/11 memorial stair climb events and his philosophy on paying it forward. And don’t miss Minogue’s Hot Seat answe...2023-11-091h 07Better Every Shift‘I held it in for so long’: Lauran McColloh shares the story of her first fire – a double LODDNo one thought she’d stay. Lauran McColloh was a new firefighter, just 18 years old, facing a double-LODD incident – on her very first fire. What’s more: One of the fallen firefighters was her friend Victor Isler. But McColloh didn’t consider quitting; firefighting was her dream. Now a Salisbury FD battalion chief, McCulloh joins Better Every Shift to share how she processed the abnormality of experiencing such trauma so early in her career and, more recently, how she discovered the power of vocalizing her experience – something she hadn’t done for 15 years.
We dig into all this:
Im...2023-11-0249 minBetter Every Shift‘We’re all engineers’: Chief Randall Hanifen talks IFE-USA influenceSelf-described “pracademic” Dr. Randall Hanifen knows two languages – academic speak and boots-on-the-ground speak – a skill he uses to bridge the gap between the more theoretical university world and our practical fireground experiences. This is one of the many talents he’s honed during his work with the Institution of Fire Engineers-USA Branch for which he now serves as president, in addition to serving as assistant chief of operations for the West Chester (Ohio) Fire Department.
On this week’s show, Chief Hanifen and the team dig into all this:
What it really means to be an “engineer” in t...2023-10-2647 minBetter Every Shift‘Please don’t turn me away’: Ben Vernon on seeking help post-stabbing — Part 2Part 2 of our interview with Ben Vernon includes descriptions of violence and suicidal ideation that may be triggering for some, as well as explicit language. Please listen with caution.
For months after being stabbed on the job – a “routine” medical call gone wrong – Ben Vernon was in a world of hurt, unable to sleep due to constant nightmares, barred from talking to his crew about the incident due to the impending criminal trial, and even experiencing suicidal ideation. Vernon shares the triggers that rocked him as well as the moment he knew he needed to seek help. He expla...2023-10-191h 12Better Every Shift‘This is a kill shot’: Captain Ben Vernon details his attempted murder on the job — Part 1Please note, this episode includes descriptions of violence that may be triggering for some, as well as explicit language.
“To witness in real time an attempted murder is pretty intense,” says San Diego Fire-Rescue Captain Ben Vernon recalling the first time he saw slow-motion body camera footage of his own stabbing during a seemingly “routine” medical call. No one expected that a bystander would turn violent, leaving Vernon and his partner with serious injuries. Vernon offers a detailed play-by-play of the incident, from his initial complacency about the call through its quick escalation and ultimately to his emotiona...2023-10-1959 minBetter Every Shift‘I’ve never been lonely at the top’: Chief John Butler talks team buildingIAFC President John Butler – “the chief of chiefs!” – joins Better Every Shift this week, talking all things leadership, including why the adage “It’s lonely at the top” has never applied to him. In addition to his superpower of always seeming calm, cool and collected, the Fairfax County fire chief has a knack for being able to spot talent and knows how to surround himself with passionate people who support the mission and the organization.
Plus, we dig into all this:
IAFC presidency and priorities – “the clock is ticking”
How Butler refuels his energy supply
Realizing we don’t have to sol...2023-10-121h 01Better Every Shift‘I don’t want rules-followers’: Brian Fennessy champions intent-driven firefightersDon’t get the wrong idea here. “Rules are important,” says Orange County (California) Fire Authority Chief Brian Fennessy; however, firefighters need to be trusted to make smart decisions when things go awry in the world of chaos around us – and this trust is best achieved through an intent-driven culture where members understand the organizational mission.
Plus, we dig into all this:
Learn: The OCFA Doctrine shaping the future of the department
Action: The power of a station visit, particularly for new members
Laugh: Firefighters’ keen abilities to sniff out a fraud
High note: IAFC’s Career Fire...2023-10-051h 13Better Every Shift‘I’m going to change this department if it kills me’: Thomas Bell talks culture changeIf Chief Thomas Bell of the Greensburg (Pa.) Volunteer Fire Department had a nickel for every time someone remarked that he had some “big shoes to fill” after taking the reins from a local legend who had 60-plus years on the job, well, he’d have a lot of nickels. But the new chief had a simple plan – being himself. Bell vowed to create his own destiny – in even bigger shoes – and revamp a department that needed an organizational culture change in a big way. Bell shares his focus on firefighter safety and health, fireground accountability, recruitment and retention (including th...2023-09-2800 minBetter Every Shift‘This podcast is worth millions’: Jerry Brant explains how to secure FD fundingChief Jerry Brant – the 70-million-dollar man – joins the show this week, explaining the role that all firefighters play in the grants process, what application reviewers are looking for this year, plus common grant proposal mistakes. (And yes, Brant has indeed written more than $70 million in successful grant applications in his career, some for FireGrantsHelp.) The self-proclaimed “pope of the church of planning,” Brant urges people to work ahead, particularly since it’s no surprise that there’s a grant application period every year, and offers guidance for striking the right balance between data and storytelling in the grant-writing process.
Don’t mis...2023-09-2151 minBetter Every ShiftFire Prevention Week prep: Plug-and-play messaging you can use todayWe’re not going to Stop, Drop and Roll over on our fire prevention messages; we’re going to embrace them with open arms to create simple but effective calls to action that can make a difference in your community. Helping us in this effort is Andrea Vastis, senior director for public education with the NFPA, which runs Fire Prevention Week™, coming up Oct. 8-14. This year’s FPW theme is “Cooking Safety Starts with YOU! Pay attention to fire prevention.™"
We dig into all of this:
The top 3 cooking fire messages firefighters should know
Where to find plug...2023-09-1449 minBetter Every ShiftRemembering 9/11: Legacy, vigilance and cohesivenessThis episode of the Better Every Shift EMS podcast is sponsored by Verizon Frontline, the advanced network for first responders on the front lines. Learn more at verizon.com/frontline.
In this special crossover episode of the Better Every Shift, Policing Matters and Inside EMS podcasts, co-hosts Aaron Zamzow, Jim Dudley and Chris Cebollero discuss preserving the legacy of 9/11 responders and how to assess our readiness to respond to a large-scale MCI in our communities.
The hosts talk technology trends that we could (and should!) use to improve the security of citizens and first responders, fr...2023-09-0737 minBetter Every Shift‘It’s the same circus with different clowns’: Gordon Graham talks universal FD problemsThe man, the myth, the legend, Mr. Gordon Graham joins the show this week talking all things risk management, the study of bad outcomes, plus the power of policy and systems in reducing risk for your members – and of course he does it all with the perfect anecdotes that put it all in perspective.
We dig into all of this:
The #1 question he asks when evaluating a fire department
The quality that separates good supervisors from great supervisors
The “core critical tasks” all firefighters should train on regularly
His “10 Fs” for a long, quality life
Email bette...2023-08-241h 07Better Every ShiftChief John Oates: ”Can we just retire the ‘it’s a generational thing’ mindset?”For all the boomers to Gen Z firefighters out there, today’s episode digs into critical questions: Do generational differences even exist, and why are we so intent on defining people by the year they were born? Chief John Oates, CEO of the International Public Safety Data Institute (IPSDI), shares his perspective on the issue with Zam and Janelle.
We dig into all of this:
Generational differences vs. lifespan development differences
How to avoid the “generational crutch” in training, leading by individual, not groups
Three “unviolatable” aspects of the fire service
The traits Oates looks for in people...2023-08-171h 02Better Every Shift‘We can’t read your mind’: Ben Thompson urges firefighters to speak up about stressThe newly released What Firefighters Want in 2023 survey special coverage highlights a perfect storm of stressors facing the fire service. On today’s show, Battalion Chief Ben Thompson expands on his article “'Buyer beware’: A message from stressed-out firefighters,” encouraging members to speak up about their stressors and offering guidance for leaders unsure how to help members who may be experiencing high stress.
We dig into all of this:
What firefighters ranked their #1 stressor (it’s actually not staffing)
Finding the line with stress – when it’s standard issue and when it becomes dangerous
The power of knowing som...2023-08-1051 minBetter Every Shift‘Make THIS place better’: Kris Kazian’s advice to frustrated firefightersIt’s easy to sit around the kitchen table complaining about your agency’s lack of leadership or what you’ve heard about how much better it is at some other department. But when faced with a bad situation, you do have a choice. On this week’s Better Every Shift podcast, Chief Kris Kazian urges members to take action to lead up, foster a positive environment, and develop the future leaders of the department.
We dig into all of this:
Showing vulnerability to your members;
The Q12 survey gauge employee engagement;
Personal “safety valves” for member “safe...2023-08-031h 02Better Every ShiftLACoFD firefighter details ‘surreal experience’ appearing on ‘LA Fire & Rescue’Better Every Shift welcomes a fire service celebrity to the show this week. Los Angeles County Fire Department (LACoFD) Firefighter-Paramedic Mike Anderson, one of the firefighters featured on NBC’s new docuseries “LA Fire & Rescue,” shares an inside look at his experience having his work world chronicled for the show. This week’s episode, “Three Alarm,” highlights Station 172’s response to a massive pallet fire, as well as a serious opioid overdose, plus two other LACoFD stations running a variety of calls – multiple traumas, an attic fire, and a snake-in-house call.
Plus, Anderson shares insights on this:
Those initial...2023-07-2537 minBetter Every ShiftChief Todd LeDuc: ‘Your risk becomes everyone’s risk’When it comes to firefighter health, personal risks can quickly translate to dangers for the entire crew.
We must look out for each other, not only on the fireground but also with our health and wellbeing. That’s the message from Chief Todd LeDuc, chief strategy officer for Life Scan Wellness Centers, as he highlights the personal and organizational opportunities to build accountability around firefighter health.
Plus, we dig into all of this:
3 ways to shift a personal fitness mindset;
Building a proactive vs. reactive FD health culture;
How and when to take a da...2023-07-2059 minBetter Every Shift‘Just call people out’: Dr. Candace Ashby on defeating toxicity at the firehouseIndianapolis Battalion Chief Dr. Candace Ashby takes an honest, humor-driven tell-it-like-it-is approach to leadership, urging company officers, and really all members, to call out bad behavior when they see it. Imagine the tone shift and culture change possible, she says, if company officers told their members to, “Pull your head out of your ass and act like you got some damn sense” at the moment of offense.
Plus, we dig into all of this:
Being proactive when you’re unhappy with FD leadership;
Her favorite activity to build crew camaraderie.
Simple advice for leaders trying to proble...2023-07-131h 00Better Every ShiftChief Jim Keiken: ‘You have to periodically reinvent yourself’It all comes full circle on this episode of the podcast, as we are joined by IFSI Director Jim Keiken, the man ultimately responsible for unleashing Zam on the fire service. Keiken hired Zam at the Madison (Wisconsin) Fire Department – just one example of his ability to mentor new firefighters and set them up for success. Following his time in Madison, Keiken embraced a great “second career” with the Illinois Fire Service Institute, where he continues to support firefighters from across the country through research, training and leadership development.
We dig into all of this:
IFSI’s newest...2023-07-061h 11Better Every ShiftCorley Moore: ‘If you’re not having fun doing this job, you are doing it wrong’It’s another high-energy, passion-fueled podcast, as Battalion Chief Corley Moore joins Zam and Janelle to dissect fire service culture, toxic leadership and how to fight your way back from complacency. Chief Moore – founder of Firehouse Vigilance and host of the Weekly Scrap podcast – details his own evolution from struggling with complacency to serving as a motivational speaker and instructor.
We dig into all of this:
Moore’s empathy for burned out, complacent members
The origins of the “The 9L’s: Keys to High Performance Culture,” plus Moore’s favorite “L”
The scene in the movie “The Break-Up” that exe...2023-06-2958 minBetter Every Shift‘A flowchart mindset’: UL FSRI researchers talk dynamic decisions on the firegroundThe highly complex, dynamic nature of the fireground makes adaptive thinking particularly vital for firefighters and incident commanders. Our guests on this podcast – Keith Stakes and Craig Weinschenk, UL Fire Safety Research Institute research engineers – break down how to incorporate such critical thinking into training, plus the importance of using a “flowchart mindset” to manage nuance on the fireground. They also detail the newly released FSRI research, “Search and Rescue Tactics in Single-Family Single-Story Residential Structures.”
We dig into all of this:
The biggest takeaways – and surprises – from the data
Remove the victim or seal the space – what sho...2023-06-2249 minBetter Every ShiftLithium-ion battery fire hazards, training, resources for firefightersHow many lithium-ion batteries do you have in your house? We’ve all got ’em, which means there are countless opportunities for them to spark. On this episode of the Better Every Shift podcast, Zam and Janelle speak with Deputy Chief Darin Wallentine about the Firefighter Safety Stand Down, this year focused on Li-ion battery fires. Wallentine, who represents the IAFC’s Safety, Health and Survival section, one of the Safety Stand Down partner organizations, highlights training opportunities and resources, shares life safety messaging for the community, and addresses the evolution of the Li-ion battery issue, from EVs to e-bike...2023-06-1557 minBetter Every ShiftThe Goldfeders: ‘The fire service has been wonderful to this family’This week’s episode is extra “golden,” as Zam says, because we have not one, but two Goldfeders on the show – Loveland-Symmes Deputy Chief Billy Goldfeder and his son Brian Goldfeder, a captain with the Prince George’s County (Maryland) Fire/EMS Department. The Goldfeders dig into all things fire families – and if you know Billy, you know he’s all about family.
The team gets into all of this: Billy’s reactions and advice when Brian first considered joining the fire service; what it was like being a “coach’s kid” in the fire service – and when to use the coach as...2023-06-0856 minBetter Every Shift‘It’s an honor’: Victor Stagnaro on his new role as NFFF CEOVictor Stagnaro joins the podcast to talk about his recent appointment as CEO of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation. Stagnaro had previously served as the NFFF managing director, overseeing family and fire service programs, and now steps into the role of CEO, succeeding Chief Ron Siarnicki. We dig into all of this: Stagnaro’s primary focus over the next few months; who he’ll turn to for advice during the transition and beyond; new ways the foundation can support families; and how firefighters can champion the NFFF mission. Don’t miss: Who Victor calls the wisest man he’s every me...2023-06-0148 minBetter Every Shift‘Attack every situation’: Vince Bettinazzi shares shift expectationsToday’s podcast unpacks the complex topic of go/no-go decision-making, focusing on vertical ventilation and search tactics. Our guest for the discussion is Training Chief Vince Bettinazzi, who authored one of the articles in FireRescue1’s latest training tool, “Go/no-go decision making on the fireground,” which is available to download and share with your crews.
We dig into all of this: “Aggressive” vs. “attack” semantics; how to update size-up reports; pulling off AARs even when you can’t gather the full crew; and more. Plus, don’t miss: Bettinazzi’s pocket doors pro tip for search crews.
E...2023-05-2552 minBetter Every ShiftCebollero: ‘We need to reverse the organizational chart’ in EMSEMS leader and advocate Chris Cebollero joins Better Every Shift for a very special crossover event. No, this isn’t the One Chicago universe but rather the Lexipol Media Group universe, with Inside EMS podcast co-host Cebollero joining Zam and Janelle to talk all things fire-based EMS, leadership, community paramedicine and more. Cebollero digs into some of the pressing issues facing EMS, including the need for leaders to prioritize the workforce and give members every opportunity to succeed. The team gets into all of this: A critical rule for handling mental health calls; the secret for motivating a workforce; wh...2023-05-1853 minBetter Every ShiftNick Martin: ‘When the bell rings, it’s game time’Digging into all things training, culture and motivation, this week’s show features Nick Martin, division chief with the City of Salisbury (N.C.) Fire Department and founder and president of Combat Ready Fire Training. The team hits on several topics: What it means to be combat-ready for the job; the difference between aggressive and reckless fire attack; stories of Martin’s personal evolution on the job and the standard to which he now holds himself; vetting trainers in a world when anyone can have their own social media channel; and the power of sharing the “why” with new members...2023-05-1152 minBetter Every ShiftFDIC 2023 playback: Reliving the chaos, appreciating the connectionsOn this episode of the Better Every Shift podcast, Zam and Janelle recap FDIC 2023 and their attempts to meet all 52,000 attendees packed into the exhibit hall, educational sessions, Lucas Oil stadium and the bleachers outside for the hands-on demos.
The duo reveals their highs and lows, plus some memorable moments and takeaways:
Favorite hallway run-ins
New friend shoutouts
Top attention-getting exhibitor booth
The “didn’t see that coming” moment
Aaron sacrificing his body in the name of video
9/11 Memorial Stairclimb support
Lessons learned
Connect with us!
Email bettereveryshift@firerescue1.com to share your feedback2023-05-0446 minBetter Every ShiftChief Randy Bruegman: ‘Nothing good happens without a plan’Today’s show challenges fire service leaders to think big – at least bigger – than the status quo. Fire Chief Randy Bruegman, who served as past president of the IAFC and CPSE, offers guidance for how to move beyond a myopic focus on day-to-day fire department management to a more strategic mindset about operations and the future of our organizations – and really why all fire chiefs need to push the envelope if they expect their departments to survive and thrive amid the myriad changes ahead.
Plus, we get into all this: The chief’s theory about why firefighters dislike ch...2023-04-301h 07Better Every Shift‘Crawl. Walk. Run’: Andy Beck details smart mayday training“Perfect practice makes automatic” is the key takeaway from this mayday training-focused episode, sponsored by L3Harris. Mandan City (N.D.) Training Officer Andy Beck unpacks his latest article, which is featured in FireRescue1’s latest digital edition, The Mayday Training Evolution, and offers several tips for how to train on mayday situations that are realistic enough to build muscle memory but not so difficult that members repeatedly fail, building bad habits.
Plus, we get into all this: the body’s physiological response during mayday incidents; yoga breathing vs. tactical breathing; and Beck’s favorite mayday training props.
...2023-04-1751 minBetter Every ShiftJonathan Tate: ‘I know I’m supposed to bring healthier meals into the firehouse’We hope you’re hungry today, not only for food but inspiration as well, because today’s episode, which is sponsored by L3Harris, features Jonathan Tate, a DC Fire & EMS firefighter and the founder of Food on the Stove, a nonprofit organization with a simple mission: “While firefighters extinguish fires caused by food on the stove, our organization promotes safe and heart-healthy eating habits to improve the food on their stoves and, ultimately, protect their quality of life.”
Tate shares the catalyst for creating the nonprofit, offers simple nutrition and health tips, and details the upcoming event “I...2023-04-1355 minBetter Every ShiftChief Ron Siarnicki: ‘Leave it better than you found it’In this episode of the podcast, sponsored by L3Harris, Chief Ron Siarnicki, executive director of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), reflects on his 20-plus years with the Foundation and what’s next for him personally after so many years working with firefighter families.
The chief, who recently announced his upcoming retirement – but not his successor (yet) – details the Foundation’s extraordinary evolution since 2001, when 9/11 forever changed its course; shares his 9/11 story – the early NYC setup, the often-disbelieved story of the unlimited credit card, the Foundation’s ongoing support to FDNY; and offers a key reminder to his succe...2023-04-061h 05Better Every ShiftBetter Every Shift LIVE: The Healthy 10 – How to define a healthy firefighterWhat does a healthy firefighter look like? So often we focus on physical appearance to define health, but health is a multifaceted, complex interaction among several factors. During this live podcast event, Better Every Shift hosts Firefighter Aaron Zamzow and FireRescue1 Editor-in-Chief Janelle Foskett speak with Chief Marc Bashoor about the “Healthy 10,” a list of 10 ways firefighters can elevate their overall health and wellness. The group digs into how to define a healthy firefighter, underscoring that looking healthy doesn’t automatically equate to being healthy.
2023-03-301h 10Better Every ShiftDr. David Griffin: ‘The success in my life has come from the worst day of my life’Dr. David Griffin, assistant chief of administration in Charleston, S.C., joins Better Every Shift this week, sharing powerful lessons learned from the tragic Sofa Super Store fire where nine of his fellow firefighters died; his journey to find himself and his mission after the tragedy; how he resurfaced his love of learning; and how he manages to keep all the plates spinning amid his work schedule, speaking engagements and business ventures.
Plus, we get into all this: Griffin’s initial resistance to change following the fire; acknowledging why so many members retired after the incident; the var...2023-03-1650 minBetter Every ShiftElectric vehicle fires: Products, strategies and the power of timeBuckle up for an electric episode, driving hard into everything firefighters need to know about electric vehicle fires. Puns notwithstanding, Zam and Janelle are thrilled to speak with Patrick Durham, a captain and training officer with the Troy (Michigan) Fire Department who also works as a mechanical engineer. Durham started StacheD Training to educate firefighters on a variety of technical topics, including the unique aspects of responding to EV incidents, so he’s the right person to answer all of Zam’s scenario-based questions about how to handle various EV fire situations.
Plus, we get into all this...2023-03-0945 minBetter Every Shift‘We need to walk the walk’: Leaders face off in wellness competitionGet ready for a healthy dose of smack talk from some unexpectedly competitive fire service leaders. Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, U.S. fire administrator; Chief Eriks Gabliks, superintendent of the National Fire Academy; Dr. Sara Jahnke, director of the Center for Fire, Rescue & EMS Health Research; and Chief Bryan Frieders, president/CEO of the Firefighter Cancer Support Network are going head to head in the Better Every Shift Challenge, a wellness competition that hopefully inspires you – yes, YOU – to join the challenge to better your health.
The leaders share the origins of the challenge, which did involve some of t...2023-03-0240 minBetter Every ShiftJason Patton: ‘Nothing comes natural to me at all’The first firefighter-influencer of the modern era shares how his early speaking nerves transformed into a love of making comedy videos
Patton reveals his favorite Fire Department Chronicles video to film, the call that made him laugh the hardest (and later served as great material for a video), plus the video that put him on the map. Plus, we get into all this: His best advice for firefighters getting into the social media space; how he chooses his passion projects; and "micro-dosing happiness."
Don’t miss: The hilarious story of his first attempt to teach a CP...2023-02-2343 minBetter Every Shift‘Don’t do that!’: A first responder therapist signals common relationship red flagsGet ready to kick back on the metaphorical couch because on this episode of the Better Every Shift podcast, Zam and Janelle talk to Dr. Rachelle Zemlok – a first responder-focused psychologist, who also happens to be married to a fire captain – about all things firefighter relationships: stress-related competition between partners; assuring firefighters that they are in control of their therapy session; the one word that defines the trickiness of firefighter relationships; and a lot of simple ways to, quite simply, not blow up your marriage.
Plus, we get into all this: Gottman’s research into the ‘four horsemen...2023-02-1647 minBetter Every ShiftChief Jason Caughey: ‘Everything we do is about people’On this episode of the Better Every Shift podcast, Zam talks to Fire Chief Jason Caughey from the Laramie County (Wyoming) Fire Authority about fire service relationships, communication and making connections with the community, plus all this: Why years 2-8 are tough on firefighters; the problem with our marketing efforts; the fire service similarities to credit unions; and questions about whether the fire service is “softening.”
What else …
Hot seat sneak peek: His dream (non-fire service) career
Don’t miss: Vision Day at the FD
Episode power-quote: “This is absolutely the best career, but it’s not the best...2023-02-0945 minBetter Every ShiftSuper Bowl showtime: How Glendale fire crews are preparing for the big gameThis episode of the Better Every Shift podcast is extra super because Zam and Janelle are talking all things Super Bowl with Glendale (Arizona) Captain Ashley Losch, digging into the fire and EMS preparations, training and coordination for this year’s big game. Captain Losch details the many moving parts of “Super Season,” what they’ve learned from the past two Super Bowls the city has hosted, plus how the Damar Hamlin incident prompted additional questions. Plus, we get into all this:
The big messaging change for this year
Maintaining citywide staffing during the big game
The tabletop exercise...2023-02-0254 minBetter Every ShiftJanuary rear-view: Hamlin ‘takes,’ tattoo controversy, giving life beyond deathOn this episode of the Better Every Shift podcast, Zam and Janelle dig into the big stories, hot takes and moments that moved us from the month:
Damar Hamlin’s medical emergency live on Monday Night Football – and the many “takes” that followed;
Controversy over an Alabama firefighter whose tattoo and hair prompted complaints that ultimately led to her dismissal; and
The fallen FDNY firefighter whose organ donation saved multiple lives, including two retired FDNY members.
We also recognize Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month and offer simple tips for talking to your doctor about the unique health risks firefigh...2023-01-2646 minBetter Every ShiftChief Tim Sendelbach: ‘This profession can’t afford the status quo’On this episode of the Better Every Shift podcast, Zam and Janelle talk to a dear friend, Loveland (Colorado) Fire Rescue Authority Fire Chief Tim Sendelbach, about what it was like to serve as the editor-in-chief of two major fire service publications, then transition back into fire department life. The chief reflects on his family's fire service connection, his vision for Loveland, and how his career has come full circle.
Plus, we get into all this:
A “spicy” analogy for old school vs. new school leadership
His unique connection to the Beverly Hills Supper Club fire
What...2023-01-1944 minBetter Every ShiftBattalion Chief Dena Ali: ‘You can’t leave your baggage at the door’The Raleigh firefighter and peer support advocate explains her perspective on healthy boundaries, therapy and why connection is life-sustaining
On this episode of the Better Every Shift podcast, Raleigh Battalion Chief Dena Ali joins the crew for a candid conversation about firefighter behavioral health, its connection to physical health, and her belief that the fire service needs its leaders to go beyond simply referring members to actually connecting with their members. We dig into that, plus all this:
The sleep stat that shocked us
The power of replacing the term “selfish” with “self-care”
How to embrace being a...2023-01-1256 minBetter Every Shift‘Royal Rumble’ of firefighter fitness: Zam goes head-to-head with Dan Kerrigan and Jim Moss‘Pull up your jogging pants and take some notes’ because the three fitness experts offer actionable tips for health in the new year.
On this episode of the Better Every Shift podcast, Zam joins forces with fellow firefighter fitness experts Chief Dan Kerrigan and Captain Jim Moss, authors of “Firefighter Functional Fitness,” to offer actionable tips for health in the new year – and non-fitness-guru Janelle learns that even experts need help from time to time. Plus, all this:
Why mindset is the first piece of the health puzzle
How smartphones impact firefighter health
Who said it? “I crush ice...2023-01-0550 minBetter Every ShiftDr. Sara Jahnke on data-driven change: ‘You have to give early, easy wins’On this episode of the Better Every Shift podcast, Dr. Sara Jahnke, director of the Center for Fire, Rescue & EMS Health Research, joins Zam to bond over their shared forgetfulness of their own articles and, more importantly, the reality of translating fire service science to real-world tactics and behavior, plus all this:
Her “fourth-child” project – the Science Alliance (and merch!);
Simple steps for positive change;
The power of positive peer pressure;
The motivating story about cigarettes in fire service culture; and
Her pop culture black hole, even with Coolio;
What else …
Don’t miss: The data point that...2022-12-0135 min
Better Every ShiftFirefighters need to move beyond the fear of defeatism for calling a mayday ‘too early‘"How many times does it take for a chief to hear near-misses before they recognize there's a systemic problem?" This is the question posed by Chief Marc Bashoor in this week's Side Alpha Podcast.
Chief Bashoor has been following several mayday incidents as well as trends found in mayday incidents, as found in the research of Project Mayday, and identified three key areas to address:
The need to recognize conditions that could lead to a mayday;
What firefighters should do when they find themselves in trouble; and
How to change a culture that discourages firefighters from c...2021-12-1509 minBetter Every Shift‘This isn’t what I signed up for’: Chief Bob Horton unpacks his provocative editorialIn this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Chief Marc Bashoor speaks with Chief Bob Horton from Fire District 3 in Jackson County, Oregon, about his debate-stirring article, "'This is not what I signed up for': Why some firefighters simply don’t understand the job." The article charges that fire service leaders must be honest about the realities of the job when engaged in recruitment activities, as too many members join the ranks unclear on how much non-fire activity exists in the fire service. The article elicited a significant number of comments from the FireRescue1 community, mainly on Facebook. Chief Ho...2021-11-2435 minBetter Every ShiftFDNY Chief Frank Leeb talks training at ”The Rock” and how to market safety messages to membersOn this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Fire Chief Marc Bashoor speaks with Frank Leeb, a deputy assistant chief with the FDNY, currently serving as chief of the Fire Academy and chair of the department’s Contamination Reduction Workgroup. The chiefs discuss Leeb's recent FireRescue1 article "Marketing the message: How FDNY spreads the word about firefighter health and safety," which details simple steps fire departments can employ to best connect with members about important health issues. Leeb also shares what it's like to run training at the FDNY Fire Academy, aka "The Rock."
Bonus resource: Captain John...2021-11-1034 minBetter Every ShiftKeith Stakes details the newly expanded mission for UL‘s Fire Safety Research InstituteIn this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Fire Chief Marc Bashoor speaks with Battalion Chief Keith Stakes, a research engineer with UL's Fire Safety Research Institute (FSRI), about the organization's newly expanded mission, one that focuses on a broader range of emerging fire threats. Stakes shares more about the expanded research efforts at the organization and details some of the research currently underway at FSRI, including the Search & Size-up project.
Learn more about UL's FSRI at fsri.org and the organization's expanded focus on FireRescue1.
2021-10-2020 minBetter Every ShiftVarone explores the top disciplinary issues that get fire officers in hot waterIn this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Chief Marc Bashoor speaks with fire service legal expert Curt Varone about one of his favorite topics -- discipline. Varone covers the top disciplinary issues that get firefighters and fire officers in hot water, examines the concept of progressive discipline, and explains how disciplinary issues in the fire service vary from those in the "cubicle world" of corporate offices.
Learn more about fire service discipline and performance issues in FireRescue1's special coverage series: Firefighter performance in focus.
Also, read more on this issue from Varone: "Discipline i...2021-10-1141 minBetter Every Shift‘I didn‘t come here to make friends‘: Discipline in the fire serviceIn this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Chief Marc Bashoor take a high-level look at discipline in the fire service, the importance of consistency, and how to manage friendships within the ranks.
This episode is part of FireRescue1's special coverage series on Firefighter Performance. Check out the full list of content here.
2021-10-1105 minBetter Every Shift‘A punch in the gut‘: Unpacking the Baltimore FD retirement debacleIn this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast, Fire Chief Marc Bashoor weighs in on the debacle unfolding in Baltimore after a court of appeals ruling upholds changes to the city’s pension plan requiring first responders to serve an additional five years before being eligible for retirement benefits. Read the original news story on FireRescue1. Bashoor calls the ruling a "punch in the gut" to first responders coming off an incredibly difficult two years, and questions why local officials aren't looking out for their members instead of looking for ways to save money at their hands.
Th...2021-09-1507 min
Better Every ShiftChad Costa considers why some firefighters are still suffering from ‘Dirty Helmet Syndrome‘On this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast by FireRescue1, Battalion Chief Chad Costa and Fire Chief Marc Bashoor tackle the concept of "Dirty Helmet Syndrome," the idea that some firefighters continue to glamorize dirty gear and unsafe actions, despite knowing the risks. The two discuss the role of culture, generational differences and training, plus what fire officers can do to get their crews to focus more on health- and safety-focused goals.
This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by Homeland-Six Tactical Radio Straps. These custom radio straps feature extractor washable decontamination, superior comfort and functionality. Learn more...2021-07-1141 min
Better Every ShiftFire Chief Trisha Wolford tackles cross-generation supervision in the fire serviceOn this episode of the Side Alpha Podcast by FireRescue1, Trisha Wolford, fire chief in Anne Arundel County, Maryland, and chair of the IAFC’s Professional Development Committee. dives into the hot topic of cross-generation supervision in the fire service. Chiefs Bashoor and Wolford consider whether "traditional" or stereotypical characteristics of different generations hold true or if they are used too often as a crutch for poor leadership. The chiefs also explore how to best supervise all members, regardless of age and experience.
This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by Homeland-Six Tactical Radio Straps. These custom radio st...2021-05-1637 min
Better Every ShiftChief Dan Rogers explains why not every volunteer wants to operate like FDNYIn this episode of the Side Alpha podcast, Assistant Chief Dan Rogers explains discusses his article, “And that’s OK: Not all volunteers want to operate like FDNY,” which generated considerable debate and discussion among FireRescue1 community members. Rogers underscores that volunteers have lives beyond the station walls, and we can’t force them to all have the same level of commitment and passion, even if it means frustration when fewer members show up to non-fire calls. Chief Bashoor reads some of the social media reactions, giving Chief Rogers a chance to address readers who disagree and those who support his sent...2021-04-2146 min
Better Every ShiftThe Firefighter 3 crew swap stories about those firefighter life skills beyond FF1 and FF2The "Firefighter 3 crew" -- Matthew Hennessy, Andrew Beck and Ben Willey -- talk to Chief Bashoor about all the firefighter life skills that no one taught you in Firefighter 1 and 2, specifically, who's in charge of the remote, laundry etiquette at the station, and other lighthearted lessons all new firefighers should know. The crew also explains how these lighthearted lessons can translate into meaningful mentorship between new and existing members.
Learn more about Firefighter 3 and download a Firefighter 3 PDF with firefighter life skills at www.firerescue1.com/FF3.
This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by EFJohnson, a JVCKENWOOD...2021-03-0926 min
Better Every ShiftFire Chief John Tippett discusses the impact of crew resource management on the fire serviceChief John B. Tippett, Jr., the director of fire service programs for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), addresses how the principles of crew resource management can improve safety on the fireground, and shares some of the newest initiatives of the NFFF. Read more from Chief Tippett at www.firerescue1.com/columnists/john-tippett.
This episode of the Side Alpha Podcast is sponsored by EFJohnson, a JVCKENWOOD company. As a leader in mission-critical communications for more than 90 years, we have made it our mission to make safe, simple. Visit EFJohnson online at www.efjohnson.com.2021-01-2026 min
Better Every ShiftMarc Bashoor and Janelle Foskett reflect on a year unlike any otherFire Chief Marc Bashoor and FireRescue1 Editor-in-Chief Janelle Foskett reflect on a most challenging year, discussing the unprecedented challenges fire and EMS personnel faced due to COVID-19 and civil unrest, while also considering some of the bright moments from 2020, including words of encouragement from fire service leaders.2020-12-2939 min
Better Every ShiftFirefighter James Pribyl shares why he became a volunteer firefighterFirefighter James Pribyl shares his experience as a volunteer firefighter with Turkey Creek Fire Rescue in Sneads Ferry, North Carolina, and its connections to his time as an active-duty Marine for 19 years. Pribyl also shares an honest look at a typical day of a volunteer firefighter, based on his FireRescue1 article "I am your local volunteer firefighter."2020-10-2021 min
Better Every ShiftChief‘s Forum: LAFD officer likely saved lives by noticing ‘scene sickness’In this Rapid Response to the massive Los Angeles blast that injured 12 LAFD firefighters, Fire Chief Marc Bashoor says explains why seeing the signs and signals of environmental change is like recognizing the signs and symptoms of a stroke or heart attack.
Read the full article: firerescue1.com/columnists/marc-bashoor/
Music by David Hyde2020-05-1907 min
Better Every ShiftSide Alpha Podcast: Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell talks data-based decision-making in the fire serviceDr. Lori Moore-Merrell, president and CEO of the International Public Safety Data Institute and a FireRescue1 board member, talks about the history of the institute, FireCARES and NFORS, and how implementing real-time data in the resource decision-making process can significantly impact firefighter safety.2020-04-2925 min