Jamie Flynn is a former British Special Forces operator turned professional BASE jumper, Security Specialist and wingsuit pilot. Now based in Squamish, BC, he’s also a firefighter, Search & Rescue member and mental health advocate. With thousands of jumps and a world championship title, Jamie shares his journey from combat zones to cliff edges to his transition into the Fire Service. Follow his adventures: @jamieflynnbase.

A former law enforcement officer turned ultra-endurance athlete, is on a mission to break the silence around mental health in the service community. He’s raised over $78,000 through the Sach-in-Motion Fund and is set to run 7,500 km across Canada in 75 days — all to support first responders and veterans.

You can find more on him here: https://sachinmotion.ca/

In this special episode, we have our very first guest - Will Brodie! Will is the team lead for his Fire Department's Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) team. He also sits on the BCPFFA Mental Health Subcommittee. The 3 of us go into mental health, resiliency, and resources available for aspiring and veteran Firefighters alike.

In this episode, we go over 6 questions a Firefighter Interview Panel may ask that you should answer without hesitating. Hesitating on Questions such as "Why do you want to be a Firefighter?" or "Tell us about yourself?" may cause red flags and you should prepare accordingly.

In this short but sweet episode, we go over the Firefighter Written Exam a.k.a. the Aptitude Test. Simple tricks, dos and don'ts to ensure you move onto the next step. Check out our website store page for a copy of our practice exam!

In this episode, we discuss Firefighting tools we like, tools we carry on us, and tools that have given us some trouble in the past on calls. What are your favourite tools or what tool have you found completely useless? We'd love to know!

Firefighters face emergencies and witness events that most people never will - but how do we handle the weight of those experiences? In this episode, we explore the challenges Firefighters carry home, how our families can support us on tough days, and how we can be there for them in return.

In this episode of FGC Behind the Smoke, we dive into the difference between proactive and reactive firefighting. Discover how staying ahead of the game can elevate your skills and career!

In this episode, we dive into essential dos and don'ts of crafting the perfect resume & cover letter. Learn how to highlight your experience, tailor your skills to the job, and avoid common mistakes that could cost you an invite to the interview.

In this Episode, we go over the top 3 mistakes Firefighter Applicants make that could tank their careers before they even start. Learn from other's bad habits and nail your Firefighter job search on the first try. [In-episode correction: Q&A episode is #4]

In this episode, we go over firefighter questions you may see come up in your Panel Interview. Different categories, what to look out for, and what the recruiters are trying to find out about you.

Celebrate the season with our Firefighters Global Christmas Special! Join us for heartwarming stories, holiday traditions from the firehouse, and tips on staying safe during the busy festive season. Perfect for first responders and their families looking to add a little cheer to their Christmas Playlist. Stay safe!

In this episode, we reconnect with an old friend whose journey has taken him from the front lines of the military to the front lines of the fire service. Together, we reflect on our time in the army, share stories from the fireground, and dive into the lessons learned along the way. Now serving as an Assistant Deputy Chief in the country’s large metropolitan fire department, James brings a wealth of experience, insight, and leadership to the conversation.

Secured an interview for your dream Firefighting job? This episode dives into practical tips to prepare, do well, and stand out. Learn what to expect, how to handle challenging questions, and the key to showcasing your skills. Tune in before the big day comes!

We received a lot of great questions from our listeners after Episode #1, and in this one we go over all of them. Firefighter questions such as "what happens when you don't know something" and "how was your first fire" were fun to answer and brought back some great memories. Keep em coming!

In this episode, we break down the firefighter application process step-by-step, from crafting your resume to the Chief's interview. Perfect for aspiring firefighters ready to land their dream job! DM us for the NFPA Medical Standard PDF.

Ready to start your journey to a firefighter career? In this episode, we break down the ultimate checklist to make you a standout candidate in a competitive job market. From physical fitness to volunteer hours we cover the essential steps you need to take to rise above the rest. Don’t just apply—dominate the hiring process! DM us for the free Competitive Edge Checklist PDF.

In our very first episode, we share what drew us to Firefighting on a very personal level. Nothing is held back as we explore positives AND negatives of the industry. If you're looking to get into the Fire Service but are still on the fence, this episode is a must for you. Ups, downs, unedited and raw. Join us!

Today we take you through a regular day of a 24hr Firefighter shift. What we do from the moment we walk into the fire hall, to the coffee table during shift change a day later. Join us for a small glimpse into our humble day.

Today we sit down and chat with Mike Varga, an 18 year veteran of the fire service and Master Chef finalist. Mike takes us through his passion for firefighting as well as cooking. We explore the tie between the two vocations and how they come together at the fire station.

In this special guest episode, we sit down for a chat (over Zoom) with Big White Fire Department's Chief Josh Foster. We dig into how the Work Experience Program functions, duties of a firefighter, and what a Chief may look for in firefighter applicants.

In this very special episode, we catch up with Shawn Albrecht, owner and head coach of Frontline (formerly Ascension) - where he trains numerous first responders. Shawn has been grappling for 24 years and works as a Paramedic full time.

In this special episode, we speak with Roger Takahashi, former Vancouver Canucks conditioning coach with decades of experience. Roger also works with new Firefighter recruits in the field of hydration, breathing techniques, training strategies, VO2 testing, and more. You do not want to miss this one!

Got big gaps in your resume or multiple short stint jobs? Have you been self-employed for the last 10 years? In this episode, we go over some potential red flags that the Firefighter Interview Panel might prod into, and some (what we call) "orange" flags that you'll have to justify on the spot. Get ready!

In this episode, we take you coast to coast across Canada. We explore the average salary, cost of living, and tie-breaking factors you may be considering if planning on moving towns. We hope these small glimpses into the firefighter life across the country helps you on your journey West...or East!

In this episode, we break down the top 3 reasons you're likely failing the Firefighter Panel Interview. Whether it's rambling, dodging the actual question, or showing up unprepared—we dig into exactly what's holding you back from landing the job.

Crush your firefighter panel interview with FGC’s tried and true 8 Rules of Communication. In this episode, we break down exactly how to present yourself, build trust fast, and speak with clarity under pressure. Whether you're walking into your first interview or trying to fix a broken process, these rules give you the edge you need to stand out in front of any panel. Confidence, structure, and purpose — every answer, every time.

Whether it’s a structure fire, bushfire, or a racoon stuck in a dumpster, if you’re showing up unprepared, you’re dead weight. In this episode, we break down what gear to bring to the most common firefighter calls, and why it matters. If you're a probie trying to figure out what gets you a head nod vs. a head shake, or want to know more about what we actually do in a shift, this one’s for you.

Today's episode focus: apparatus operations, pump panel basics, mindset behind the wheel, and critical mistakes to avoid when you are in the driver seat. Any new recruits, aspiring drivers, and even officers who want to better support their engineers/operators should have a listen!

Today we’re diving into the major differences between being a career firefighter and a volunteer firefighter. We’ll break down the pros, the cons, the training, the lifestyle, and help you figure out which one might be the right fit for your goals.

In this episode, we go over our own beliefs into what constitutes good mentorship of a probationary firefighter. What our expectations are, limitations, and how we approach those new firefighters that want to do better, and those that go against the flow.

In this episode, we go rank by rank; from the lowest little tadpole recruit to the big Croc/Chief. We talk about rank structure, why we have it, and how it works for the most of the Fire Departments out there.

Whether you are thinking about getting into the Fire Service or whether you are halfway through a process, visiting a Firehall / Fire Station should be on your to-do list. In this episode, we break down steps you need to take to ensure your visit goes well, and what to expect once you are inside.

In this episode we go over the Do’s and Don’ts for probationers and ways to make you stand out in a positive way and avoid the negatives.

Think you’re ready to be a firefighter? In this episode, we lay it out raw: if you're in it only for the T shirt, the days off, or the badge — we don’t want your business. FGC gets real about what separates true professionals from paycheck scavengers. We talk attitude, entitlement, and the hard truth about why the fire service isn't for everyone. If that offends you, good — it’s probably not your calling.

Backdraft, Flashover, and Rollover. In this episode, we break down what they mean, how to spot the warning signs, a war-story or two, and what every probie needs to know to survive these hostile fire events. Even if you are a seasoned vet brushing up on fundamentals, this is must-know knowledge for your fireground survival.

From recruitment to the fireground, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is making its way into the fire service. In this episode, we explore how AI is being used today, where it could go in the future, and what it means for firefighters on the job or for those looking to get on. Is AI a powerful tool or a dangerous crutch?  Was this created by AI? Spooky

Last week was the first time we've missed publishing an episode. THIS WEEK, we dive into why that was the case - our little newborns. Adamo and I chat about our time as new fathers and balancing family life with firefighting.

Advanced Care Paramedic, educator, founder of Red Point Performance & Safety Inc. and a Brazillian Jiu-Jitsu black belt! With over 20 years of service to the people of BC, Sheena brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the FGC Behind the Smoke table. We also discuss her current work in helping first responders develop on-the-job skills in high risk environments. One of our longest podcasts yet, so check it out!

We've been lucky enough to have one of our clients (great guy, but we won't name names!) offer to help other aspiring firefighters in their journey by letting us use his unfinished & rough firefighter application as a teaching moment. We go over what to fill out, what recruiters are looking for, and how to stand out in one of the very first impressions you will make in your firefighter recruit process.

Seb is a veteran of the RCMP, Canadian Armed Forces, and current CEO of Raven Strategic Inc. With over 20 years of service, Seb has spent most of his career on the emergency response team, working his way up to Sgt. Major. We also dive into Seb's BJJ black belt, public speaking, masters in counter terrorism, and latest co-authored book "The Warrior and The Garden". Remember how we said our last podcast was one of the longest? This one is even longer! Enjoy.

IG:@slavccmdr

In today's episode, we went over what we were both feeling in the moment - burnout. We explore some of the causes, signs, and discuss practical strategies for prevention & resilience in one of the most demanding yet rewarding professions. If you are just getting on or you're an old salty dog, don't skip this one out.

Get ready to suit up! This week's episode takes you inside the fast paced, real-world drills of firefighter recruitment. We’re breaking down the essential skills stations; from mastering the charged hose line and ladder raises to navigating zero-visibility search scenarios. If your skills test is coming up, you won't want to miss this one!

This week, we talk about the ultimate firefighter recruit setback: failing the Recruitment Process. We break down the mental shift required to re-enter the grind, retake the exams, and stare down the same evaluators. This is a raw conversation about humility, grit, and what it truly takes to walk back into the fire when you’ve already been burned.

Fan requested episode... we love these! Adamo and I go over what it's like to be applying to the fire service much later in life. We go over what are some of the positives, negatives, and potential upcoming challenges to you if you're an old salty dog. Turn up the volume for this one.

We once again take questions from our followers and answer them on the podcast. Questions such as "Do Firefighters and Cops hate each other?" and What are the qualities you value most in a new member?" Enjoy!

We sit down again with Sach, after his amazing run across Canada to raise awareness for mental health. We talk about his experience and the people he met along his way. It was great to have him back on the show!

Check out: https://sachinmotion.ca/

Dr. Daniel Higuera is a professor of Kinesiology at Santa Ana College. He works with approximately 2000 firefighters per year across 20 fire departments in Southern California providing health and wellness education and interventions. He educates on topics such as sleep health, cardiovascular disease, physical performance, and cancer prevention. His research focuses on the applicability of wearable technology for firefighters.

Paul Tylla is the creator of HEAL and co-founder of drinkheal.ca, co-owner of Frontline Functional Training and Martial Arts, and a lifelong public servant committed to building healthier people and communities. His career spans 28 years as a professional firefighter, supported by earlier service as a U.S. Navy rescue swimmer, where teamwork, discipline, and a calm under pressure mindset were essential in high-risk environments.

Beyond his operational career, Paul is the charitable founder and current president of the DNV Firefighters Charitable Society, where he supports initiatives where firefighters work to raise funds awareness for community-based causes. His entrepreneurial and charitable work is grounded in service, accountability, and purposeful action.

Paul’s mission is deeply personal. He was a primary caregiver for his wife, Linda Tylla, during her battle with ALS, an experience that reshaped his understanding of strength, vulnerability, and the importance of compassionate systems of care. In her honour, HEAL focuses its charitable giving on the ALS community, translating lived experience into meaningful advocacy, support, and impact for others facing similar challenges

On this episode we sit down with Alex from adaptable strength. Alex comes from a family with strong military roots and went into the First Responder field in 2019 in the Dispatch Room. He stayed in the 911 field until December of 2023. After getting fed up with responding after emergencies happened and watching co worker's health decline from the job he took his decades of lifting and personal health improvement to the professional scale and began Personal Training and online coaching. He takes individualized coaching to the extreme with the specialties of working with First Responders and those with "odd life circumstances." Nowadays Alex takes on many roles in the unusual areas of health and fitness through his coaching with military/First Responders, coaching the Chester County Special Olympics Powerlifting Team, working with 98 Octane - a nonprofit for improving the health of military and first responders, and developing training resources for individuals with Autism and IDD with another non profit EmpowerU Specialty Fitness.