Explore every episode of the podcast Fire From Two Windows

As the winter season concludes, Matt and Lou engage in a discussion about the evolving landscape of the fire service. They explore the parallels between their personal lives and the fire service, delve into strategies for maximizing the effectiveness of social media videos while minimizing distractions, and reflect on the importance of engaging the public as a public servant. Listen in as they analyze a recent call that initially appeared to have a singular purpose but ultimately took an unexpected turn. Ultimately, they emphasize that adaptability is crucial in navigating the ever-changing nature of the fire service.

Matt and Lou sit down with retired Dearborn Fire Captain Mark Andrew to talk about his upcoming book, Leading Through the Heat. With early access to the manuscript, they break down the key leadership lessons it offers and explore the experiences that inspired Captain Andrew to write it.

Leading Through the Heat will be available on December 22, 2025 digitally through Amazon and Barnes & Noble. A hardcopy can also be printed and shipped following.

@markdbnfire on instagram

Matt and Lou recently attended Training Days in Alexandria, VA. Lou was honored to be one of the presenters. Today, they discuss Lou's topic and how the event went. Enjoy this episode and if you find yourself able to attend, do it!

Why is the fire service here, what is our mission? More so, why is this podcast here? Lou and Matt break down the fundamental core of public service as it relates to the fire department. What path should we consider to better protect our communities? Mission Statements and Organizational Statements are a must, however smaller programs can become operational with ease. Take a listen, perform good habits, break the bad ones, and be into the job.

Red Cross Sound The Alarm Program:

https://www.redcross.org/sound-the-alarm/become-a-sponsor.html

Got a problem with saws? Yeah... Lou and Matt do too.

In this episode of Throttle Therapy, they cold start Cutters Anonymous — a no-judgment zone for firefighters who rev high. They break down the saws of ventilation and FE: chainsaws, rotary, bullet chains, blades, bars, and all the sketchy startup techniques that still somehow work.

Whether you are the go-to saw guy or the probie still flooding the carb, they have takes, tips, and plenty of firehouse truth. Expect high RPMs, low IQs, and no apologies.

Matt and Lou take a look at a recent General Order from one department. There are many conceptions and misconceptions when a policy comes out. Listen in to find the details of what could have been the purpose. Clear vision and mission are necessary for buy in from the members.

Matt and Lou bring on a guest from the WNY Region. Assistant Chief, County Instructor, US Customs Supervisor, and subject matter expect in Lithium Ion, Paul Gorczyca. Paul shares his experiences that molded his fire service career and leadership, which eventually led him to educating departments and agencies across the board. His most recent research on EV/Lithium ion brings about a delivery on awareness, preparation, and tactics. Listen in as he shares his craft.

Reference links:

Standarization of Deviance, IAFF - Mike Mullane, NASA: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ljzj9Msli5o

Learning How to Combat Lithium-Ion Battery Fires: What You Need to Know: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cC0t7foqr8k

Matt and Lou interview a Sergeant from Detroit Fire. Listen to Dave Nowacki as he shares his experiences which lead him to a dedicated 21 years in the fire service. Topics include mission drift, training, and leadership. Follow him on his platforms:

Instagram: @4thmanfire

Website: 4thmanfire.com

Matt and Lou review their recent SCBA Consumption drill and how it relates to the work ahead. This discussion rolls into the relevance of the current fire academy and their Truck Company Operations week.

MVAs or MVCs, depending on where you operate, are challenging environments for first responders. Matt and Lou discuss some considerations from their experiences. Tune in to find what you might be forgetting about or need to add to your response guidelines.

Lou and Matt update about the ongoings with PFAS forever chemicals. How are these going to change the landscape of the fire service? Can we afford to make the change? Can we afford not to? ADB, Agressive Deadly Behavior tactics and how that relates to domestic terrorism. Are we preparring enough? Community engagement for early fire detection programs. They discuss a recent fire and how a community program made the difference.

On this episode, Lou and Matt introduce fireground tactics from the broad terms of RECEO VS to the show. Recent trainings and fires have brought to light some learning opportunities to pry from. Hear what they have learned and share your thoughts in the comments.

Lou and Matt track down Buffalo Fire Captain, Sean Eagen to discuss his latest article, "Truck Tactics: Vacant Properties: Search or Go Defensive." Capt. Eagen briefs his earlier life and what helped him develop into a successful career path as a Captain, a Fire Instructor, and most importantly a father.

Instagram: seaneagen

Matt and Lou start to break down what it means to be a senior man in the fire house. Is it still relevant in today's service? Find out what functions a senior man can perform in a career or volunteer department through their anecdotes and lessons.

Lou and Matt discuss some of the class structures offered to firefighters. Some are thrilling, but skirt certain rules. Some are too careful and miss the intent. How do you know what is right for you, and how do you recognize the difference. Listen in for key points when selecting good material.

Something stinks in here. Matt and Lou start the year off discussing various, common gas/fumes emergencies. Different tools are designed with specific tasks, but which one is for you? Listen in as they break down LEL reading, conversion factors, and selection of meters.

Lou and Matt answer a few questions from the crowd. Audience members have been sending questions in from all over. Some are from firefighters, some are from citizens. Take a listen.

If you would like to hear a discussion or have questions answered, please submit to the comments or email: firefromtwowindows@gmail.com

Lou and Matt get their paws on the audio of a job in another town. Two members, Kyle and Jared, are interviewed and have an honest conversation about their roles in the operation. Together, they explore the split-second decisions, teamwork, and training that shaped their responses to a life-threatening situation.

Plugs:

https://www.kirchscustoms.com/

KV Snow Plowing Enterprises, for all your snowplow needs in the North East Rochester Area. Message us for contact info.

Matt and Lou do a little truck bay research. How much force do we put on our ladders when using them as change of directions in rope rescue? These are their findings and considerations. Follow along with a pencil, paper, and aspirin. Edits: x2 - 45lb plates and x1 - 10lb plate totalling 100lbs were used for these experiments.

Matt and Lou received a post from online stating that "nothing showing" should be removed from a size up/onscene report. Listen in to hear what one individual has to say and how it can be viewed as a positive rather than a negative.

"The actions of that first arriving Company Officer in the first five minutes will have more of an effect on the outcome of the fire than what happens in the next five hours."

-Alan Brunacini

Thank you to the men and women who submit commentary, complains, and criticism. A healthy conversation can only start when someone speaks up. The firefighting world needs to hear everyone in order to adapt.

Lou and Matt tackle the challenges between generations. What does it take to instill traditional skills and culture, with modern tactics, to the most recent wave of recruits and probationary firefighters? Tune in to find out how their experiences have influenced their evolution.

Lou and Matt touch the tip of the iceberg in the Technical Rescue Category of the fire service. Teams to crews, everyone can use the reminder to keep it simple. We often train and attend class for advanced techniques, but then over examine the needs at an incident. Use this episode as a reminder to learn the advanced tools, but select what is appropriate for the end user: the victim, the patient, the public's need.

Lou and Matt delve into the true meaning of fitness, emphasizing that you need to be fit for the job, not rely on the job to make you fit. This extended episode is packed with insights into how exercise, conditioning, and eating evolve within the fire service to support long-term career longevity. Fitness goes beyond just lifting weights—discover fundamental movements and essential tools that can help you achieve your goals.

Matt and Lou bring on their first guest. City of Rochester Firefighter, Volunteer Officer, County Instructor, Marine Corps Veteran, and most importantly, Husband and Father: Mike May. Mike shares his experiences of growing up and the path he took to get on the job. As he evolves in his positions, Mike points out his lessons and insights for aspiring firefighters, offering advice on how to thrive and maintain a healthy, successful career in this demanding field.

Instagram: @instructor.mikemay

Matt and Lou explore the concept of search culture and its critical importance in fireground operations. Join in as they break down why developing a strong search culture is vital for any fire department. They share their experiences and strategies for incorporating search tactics into everyday fireground procedures, emphasizing the impact on both firefighter safety and victim rescue.

Matt and Lou discuss the importance of performing an effective size-up from the perspective of the first-due company officer. Lou shares the evolution of his on-scene report.

Listen in to learn:

• The essential components of an effective size-up
• Common pitfalls and how to avoid them
• The impact of a solid size-up on overall incident management

Lou and Matt share insights on how to prepare for a successful shift. They discuss what has worked well for them and what has not, offering valuable ideas for being well-prepared whether you are clocking in or responding from home.

Lou and Matt discuss fire service training props. Are we training to defeat the prop, or are we looking to develop good habits? Learn why the best prop is the one that you own.

Launch of a new Fire Service oriented podcast. Hosts Lou and Matt discuss vertical ventilation and its uses in the US. Love it or hate it, this episode delves into some considerations often overlooked and questions when, where, and how to use it.