Shows
The First Responder’s PodcastFrom Applicant to Captain: Inside a U.S. Capitol Police CareerHost Brian Miller interviews retired U.S. Capitol Police Captain Jeff Wills about his 29-year career, tracing his path from application and academy to assignments in patrol, protective details, communications, internal affairs, and command roles.
The episode covers landmark moments like 9/11 and multiple inaugurations, discusses training, leadership, and department units (SWAT, K9, threat assessment), and offers practical advice for those considering a career with the Capitol Police.
2025-10-111h 08
The First Responder’s PodcastWhen the Badge Gets Heavy: Why First Responders Need Peer SupportHost Brian Miller sits down with Kym, a peer support team member, to explain what peer support looks like for first responders, the training involved (including CISM), and how confidentiality and peer-to-peer care help address trauma, suicide risk, and job stress.
They discuss overcoming stigma, generational differences, accessing help, and why every department—large or small—should consider peer support as a vital resource.
2025-10-0330 min
The First Responder’s PodcastIsland Beat: Inside Key West Police — Policing a world famous vacation locationChief Sean Brandenburg and Captain Bradley Lariz share how the Key West Police Department balances island life with big-city demands, covering recruitment, training, staffing challenges, and the unique impact of tourism.
They describe department structure and specialties—K-9, mounted patrol, marine units, and a Special Response Team—while highlighting community support and the agency’s family culture.
2025-09-2617 min
The First Responder’s PodcastPolicing Paradise: Inside the Monroe County Sheriff’s OfficeYour host Brian Miller sits down with Sheriff Ramsey of Monroe County, Florida, about leading a full-service sheriff’s office that covers 120 miles of islands and serves both residents and millions of seasonal visitors.
They discuss department structure, staffing and hiring challenges, training and accreditation, community-oriented policing, and the use of drones, aviation and specialized teams to meet the unique demands of the Keys.
2025-09-1830 min
The First Responder’s PodcastFrom South Philly Lifeguard to Camden County Paramedic: Anthony's JourneyHost Brian Miller interviews Anthony Siciliano about his 25+ year EMS career — from lifeguard beginnings and hospital cath labs to paramedic instruction, international contracting, and seven COVID deployments.
The conversation covers starting a new county EMS, rural call challenges, modern equipment and staffing shortages, and lessons learned running and teaching in diverse environments.
2025-09-0534 min
The First Responder’s PodcastIsland Guardians: Inside Hatteras Ocean RescueCaptain Molly Greenwood of Hatteras Island Ocean Rescue discusses summer patrols, volunteer staffing, technical and medical training, and the importance of community education in preventing beach emergencies.
2025-08-2922 min
The First Responder’s PodcastInside Suffolk's Firefighting Evolution: A Chat with Chief MatthewsJoin host Brian Miller on the First Responders Podcast as he sits down with Chief Jeff Matthews from the Suffolk Fire Department. With over 16 years of service, Chief Matthews takes listeners through his journey from operations to becoming the EMS Bureau Chief. This episode highlights the diverse and evolving landscape of Suffolk, discussing its unique blend of urban and rural firefighting challenges. Discover the pivotal roles played by various divisions, including the newly developed special operations teams and community medicine initiatives.
Explore the robust structure and growth of Suffolk's fire and rescue services, with insights into manpower...
2025-08-2232 min
The First Responder’s PodcastInside Norfolk Fire & Rescue: Traditions, Challenges, and FutureJoin Brian Miller, a retired first responder, as he delves into a conversation with Chief Williams of Norfolk Fire and Rescue. In this episode, they explore the deep-rooted traditions of the Norfolk Fire Department, which has been serving the community for over 150 years. Chief Williams shares insights into the department's ongoing efforts to adapt to changing times, including the introduction of paramedic-only positions to meet the growing demand for specialized EMS services.
Discover how Norfolk Fire and Rescue manages a unique set of challenges due to the city's size, busy call volume, and the need to address...
2025-08-1528 minThe First Responder’s PodcastBehind the Badge: Sheriff David Miles on Suffolk's Rapid Growth and Unique ChallengesWelcome to another enlightening episode of the First Responders Podcast, hosted by retired first responder Brian Miller. In this episode, we sit down with Sheriff David Miles of the Suffolk Sheriff's Office, who brings light to the evolving landscape of Suffolk, Virginia—a city that has recently surpassed a population of 100,000, becoming the fastest-growing locality in the state.
Sheriff Miles elaborates on the unique challenges faced by his department, characterized by a small but highly experienced team of deputies, each bringing diverse insights from various law enforcement backgrounds. Although Suffolk boasts the largest landmass among Virginia cities, th...
2025-08-0819 min
The First Responder’s PodcastInside the Virginia State Police: A Deep Dive with Sergeant AnayaIn this episode of the First Responders Podcast, host Brian Miller sits down with Sergeant Anaya from the Virginia State Police to discuss the intricate workings of the agency. With over 27 years of experience, Sergeant Anaya offers insights into the diverse roles within the State Police, debunking the myth that they are merely a highway patrol. From jurisdiction challenges to recruitment processes, listeners gain an understanding of what it takes to become a trooper in Virginia.
The conversation delves into the rigorous training and testing procedures, including the physical agility and psychological assessments that applicants must undergo...
2025-08-0139 min
The First Responder’s PodcastHarold's Story: Battling Cancer and Reflecting on a Life of ServiceIn this episode of the First Responders Podcast, hosted by retired first responder Brian Miller, we honor the memory of several fallen heroes who have tragically passed away over the past week. Assistant Fire Chief Jason McClone, parole agent Joshua Byrd, Sergeant Dale Pereira, and Detectives Joshua Kelly Eklund, Victor Lemus, and William Osborne have all made the ultimate sacrifice in their service to the public.
Brian Miller is joined by Harold Phillips, who shares his personal journey of becoming a firefighter and battling stage 4 colon cancer. Harold sheds light on the challenges faced by first responders...
2025-07-2539 min
The First Responder’s PodcastInside Dare County EMS: A Conversation with Chief CollinsJoin host Brian Miller on the First Responders Podcast as he sits down with Chief Jennie Collins, the EMS Chief of Dare County, North Carolina. With over 31 years of experience in Prince William County, Chief Collins shares her transition from firefighter to EMS Chief and her experiences in managing emergency services in the unique landscape of the Outer Banks.
Chief Collins discusses the challenges faced by Dare County EMS, including the seasonal population surge and geographical constraints, as well as the county's longstanding medevac helicopter program, DARE MedFlight. Learn about the local EMS structure, the variety of...
2025-07-1838 minThe First Responder’s PodcastPedaling for a Cause: Honoring Fallen OfficersJoin retired first responder Brian Miller on the First Responders Podcast as he delves into the inspiring and heartwarming endeavors of two pivotal organizations: the Police Unity Tour and Law Enforcement United. The episode features back-to-back interviews with Jim Racke and Hugh Miller from the Police Unity Tour, followed by Wallace Chadwick, the president of Law Enforcement United.
Discover the shared mission of these organizations to support the families of fallen officers, especially the children, through fundraising bicycle rides that span hundreds of miles. Listen to the moving personal stories of riders and survivors, and learn how...
2025-07-1546 min
The First Responder’s PodcastChesapeake's Bravest: From Historic Roots to Innovating SafetyWelcome to the First Responders Podcast, hosted by Brian Miller, a retired first responder with over 25 years of experience. In this compelling episode, we honor the sacrifices of fallen heroes while delving into the rich history and modern advancements of the Chesapeake Fire Department. Join us as we sit down with Deputy Fire Marshal Simuel Frazier, who shares fascinating insights into the evolution of fire services in Chesapeake, from its humble beginnings with horse-drawn wagons to becoming a leading innovator in fire protection technology.
Listen as Marshall Frazier provides a detailed overview of the department’s operations, co...
2025-07-1139 minThe First Responder’s PodcastFirst Responders Podcast. The how and, more importantly, the why.Short and sweet!!! Me with the how and why of the First Responders Podcast
2025-07-0417 minThe First Responder’s PodcastVirginia Beach Sheriff's OfficeThis is where my career 'culminated in RETIREMENT!! I sit down with LT D. Taylor and SGT N. Davison to get the ins and outs of the Virginia Beach Sheriff's Office and it's many opportunities.
2025-07-0427 min