Explore every episode of the podcast Firefighter Podcast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| #416 Evolving the Fireground: International Lessons with Mike Stachowicz | 10 Nov 2025 | 02:36:34 | |
In this episode, Pete sits down once again with Watch Manager Mike “Stacko” Stachowicz GIFIRE a UK firefighter, international fire behaviour instructor, and long-time friend of the podcast to unpack his experiences from IFIW (International Fire Instructor’s Workshop) 2025. From live burns and tactical experiments in Colorado to conversations with global leaders like Andy Starnes, James Mendoza, John McDonough, and Keith Stakes from UL FSRI, Mike brings a firsthand look at the science, strategy, and mindset shaping modern firefighting. Together, Pete and Mike dig into what’s changing on the fireground: the ongoing debate over hose sizes, advances in ventilation and water mapping, and how global collaboration is helping the UK fire service evolve its approach to training, welfare, and leadership. It’s raw, technical, and unfiltered for a deep dive into how international lessons translate into real-world performance for the crews on the ground. Access all episodes, documents, GIVEAWAYS & debriefs HERE Podcast Apparel, Hoodies, Flags, Mugs HERE PODCAST GIFT - FREE subscription to essential Firefighting publications HERE A big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode.
***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #415 STAY LEFT OF BANG: A Career of International Disaster Response & Rescue with Jim McParland Part 2 | 05 Nov 2025 | 01:18:47 | |
In this second part of our conversation with Jim McParland, we move from the technical to the deeply personal. Jim opens up about the emotional weight of a career spent on the front lines of disaster — the moments that stay with you long after the noise fades, and the quiet burden carried by those who’ve seen the very worst of human tragedy. From the aftermath of catastrophic earthquakes to the heartbreak of lives lost despite every effort, Jim shares what it truly means to live with the memories that come from decades in rescue work. This episode pulls no punches. It explores the unseen toll of international deployments from the exhaustion, the moral weight of decision-making, and the struggle to switch off when you return home. It’s raw, honest, and necessary listening for anyone who wants to understand the human side of Search and Rescue. This is the story behind the uniform and the second part of a powerful two-part episode with Jim McParland. Connect with Jim HERE Access all episodes, documents, GIVEAWAYS & debriefs HERE Podcast Apparel, Hoodies, Flags, Mugs HERE PODCAST GIFT - FREE subscription to essential Firefighting publications HERE A big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode.
***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #406 Built to Last: The Data Behind Improving Firefighter Health with Dr Daniel Higuera PHD | 08 Oct 2025 | 01:40:52 | |
In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Daniel Higuera a human performance coach, researcher, and Associate Professor at Santa Ana College. Dan’s worked with over two thousand firefighters across the U.S., studying how call volume, sleep loss, and stress reshape our bodies, readiness, and mental health. He’s one of the few people turning hard data into real-world change for the fire service. We dive into the truth about performance, recovery, and longevity in this job. From VO₂ max and heart rate variability to burnout culture and the ethics of wearable tech, this chat blends science with lived experience. It’s not a scare story it’s a roadmap for firefighters who want to perform at their best today and still be strong enough to enjoy life long after the job. Find Dr Dan on Instagram HERE Access all episodes, documents, GIVEAWAYS & debriefs HERE Join me on the United for 9/11: Memorial Stair Climb – Atlanta 2026 HERE Podcast Apparel, Hoodies, Flags, Mugs HERE PODCAST GIFT - FREE subscription to essential Firefighting publications HERE A big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode.
***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #326 Incident command, Managing Big Jobs & What to consider with Dan Stephens | 13 Sep 2024 | 01:43:56 | |
Today we welcome returning guest Dan Stephens back onto the podcast as we discuss Incident command, managing big and small incidents & the principles, tactics, considerations and models available to commanders in the UKFRS. Dan walks us through some of the incidents he has attended and taken command off and the approaches he adopted that he feels have served him and other colleagues well & many of which may serve future generations of commanders. Some more background on Dan - As a highly experienced and operationally competent Chief Fire Officer/Chief Executive Officer he was Chief Officer/Chief Executive Officer of the Melbourne Metropolitan Fire Brigade having previously served for 7 years as the Chief Fire Officer of Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #325 Change Management & The Complexity of Change with Stephen Carver | 09 Sep 2024 | 01:29:43 | |
STEPHEN CARVER B.Sc M.Sc C.Eng EurIng FIRM FAPM - is rated as one of the top 3 lecturers at one of Europe’s top MBA Business Schools. He has a reputation of taking complex management concepts such as Project, Programme and Crisis Management and being able to distil them down, into highly informative and fun lectures - often using “storytelling” techniques. His attitude is “if you haven’t done it – you shouldn’t be teaching it!” He has lectured to the British armed forces pro bono for the last 20 years – and is rated as top lecturer on ACSC and ICSC. He has lectured at almost every UK military base including Shrivenham, Hereford, Conningsby, Devonport, Cosford, Uxbridge, Faslane, Falklands, Germany, Erbil and Valley. He recently shared a lively stage debate with Charles Haddon Cave at Shrivenham discussing ethical leadership. Unusually, for an academic, he has actually spent most of his working life in real business. He started as an engineer in the offshore oil business and then worked his way up the corporate ladder at Virgin and then Halliburton reporting directly into the CEO. He still runs his own, highly successful, Project Management company working with organisations from Banks and Law firms to manufacturing and pharma. We only feature the latest 200 episodes of the podcast on public platforms so to access our podcast LIBRARY, every Debrief & document CLICK HERE ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #323 Antarctic Fire Angels: The Great World Race 777 | 06 Sep 2024 | 00:52:35 | |
Returning guests George & Bex from The Antarctic Fire Angels Both wholetime fire fighters with South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) and Mid & West Wales Fire Service (MAWWFS) respectively come on to discuss there next big challenge THE GREAT WORLD RACE 777 following them successfully skiing from Union Glacier to Constellation Inlet and to the South Pole in 52 days, 10 hours and 30 mins as a South Pole expedition in January 2024, they are now planning and building the Fire Angel Foundation which will see female Fire Cadets and Girl Guides embark on a three month program, culminating in a mini expedition in Sweden where they will build self esteem, confidence and learn to support each other during times of adversity. Find out more about them HERE ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #322 Mental Health, 999:RESET, Ben Nevis and Reframing Success | 05 Sep 2024 | 00:55:44 | |
999 RE:SET is a charity based in Scotland creating weekend experiences for First responder Mental & physical wellbeing in the outdoors. their Twitter is HERE Also on the episode is Siobhan AKA "The Fire Mum" who you can find HERE ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #321 Gerard Mann Leadership Resiliency Mindset & Culture | 02 Sep 2024 | 01:54:20 | |
Gerard Mann is an experienced Leading Firefighter, Instructor & international conference speaker from Melbourne Australia. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #320 TABLET COMMAND with Andy Bozzo & Will Pigeon | 26 Aug 2024 | 01:23:52 | |
Tablet Command provides the industry-leading Mobile CAD, emergency incident response and management solution to more than 25,000 users and 600 public safety agencies across the United States and Canada. Tablet Command software solutions enhance safety and operational efficiency for emergency responders on the ground by providing comprehensive, real-time information under a single pane of glass. Tablet Command also records operational performance data as a byproduct of the incident management process. This data, and the insight it can provide, have never before existed in the public safety sector. To learn more, please visit www.tabletcommand.com. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #319 NOW & NEXT with Pete & Carl | 22 Aug 2024 | 01:53:55 | |
Carl Boasman first appeared on the podcast back in episode #301 Leadership & The Impact we have on others. Since then Carl has come onbaord with the podcast team supporting on our strataegic partnership work and in today episode we are talk about: ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #318 Professor Paul Christensen Recharged - Specialist Consultant for Lithium Ion Battery Safety | 19 Aug 2024 | 01:01:06 | |
Professor Paul Christensen is a subject matter expert & Consultant on all aspects of lithium-ion battery safety including fire detection and suppression. He is Senior Advisor to the National Fire Chiefs Council & lead for continuing Professional Development on lithium-ion battery safety across the sector covering basic lithium-ion battery science and technology, thermal runaway and consequences (including case studies), additives & safety systems, detection and suppression of fire and explosion avoidance and mitigation. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #317 Ben Levy UK strategic lead for Fires in Tall Buildings at the National Fire Chiefs Council | 12 Aug 2024 | 01:46:27 | |
Ben Levy is a highly experienced senior manager at Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service. During his 28-year career as a firefighter and officer he has gained significant operational experience. He has held a wide range of leadership positions, with a primary focus on operational command, safety, technical advice, assurance, and research and development. As the strategic lead for Fires in Tall Buildings at the National Fire Chiefs Council, he is focussed on advancing techniques and procedures for firefighting, rescue and evacuation in respect of tall buildings. His primary concern is the safety of both firefighters and affected occupants. Ben recognises that a legacy of design, construction and build issues continue to create a significant challenge to Fire and Rescue Service responders. In response, he continually emphasises the importance of outstanding levels of preparedness for, and response to, fires in tall buildings . The CUBE Incident DEBRIEF ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #316 Josh Burchick Forged & Unbroken | 06 Aug 2024 | 02:18:42 | |
Joshua Burchick is a Captain with Howard County (MD) Department of Fire & Rescue Services, and has served with HCFR since early 2004. Additionally, he has served with the Kentland Volunteer Fire Department in Prince Georges County, MD. He is a trainer for the IAFF’s Fire Ground Survival Program, is an ACE certified Peer Fitness Trainer and nationally accredited CrossFit trainer. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Public Safety Leadership from Johns Hopkins University. He also runs the online community, Forged & Unbroken, a service promoting resiliency in the fire service through physical, mental, and emotional means, donating to public safety non-profits and charitable causes. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #405 The History of the Fire Service | 06 Oct 2025 | 00:29:51 | |
The History of the Fire Service - From the bucket brigades of ancient Rome and the Great Fire of London to the rise of professional brigades and modern scientific firefighting, this story traces how courage, community, and innovation shaped the fire service we know today. Packed with real events, legends, and lessons from centuries of evolution, it’s a deep dive into the roots of our traditions and the people who turned fire suppression from survival into a profession built on knowledge, bravery, and service. Access all episodes, documents, GIVEAWAYS & debriefs HERE Join me on the United for 9/11: Memorial Stair Climb – Atlanta 2026 HERE Podcast Apparel, Hoodies, Flags, Mugs HERE PODCAST GIFT - FREE subscription to essential Firefighting publications HERE A big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode.
***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #315 British Firefighter Challenge 2024 ROUND UP | 02 Aug 2024 | 00:36:06 | |
A round up episode about The British Firefighter Challenge 2024. The event, athletes, sponsors and medal winner. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #314 The Who, What, How & Why The Firefighters Podcast started - Sarah Bromley Interviews founder & Host Pete Wakefield | 25 Jul 2024 | 01:50:15 | |
In today episode we are giving into a long standing request which has become more frequent lately and we have UKFRS serving Watch Commander & member of the podcast team Sarah Bromley Interviewing the founder & Host of the firefighters podcast Pete Wakefield asking about the Who, What, How & Why The Firefighters Podcast got started. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #313 The Firefighters Charity with Joss Gaynor & Steve Sadler | 22 Jul 2024 | 01:10:31 | |
Today my guests are Joss Gaynor from The Firefighters Charity & Steve Sadler from Re-enkindle specialising in Fire Service Research. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #312 IFIW and the international perspective with Mike Stachowicz | 16 Jul 2024 | 02:28:29 | |
Today returning guest and friend of the podcast Mike Stachowicz from the UKFRS as we discuss his recent trip to International Fire Instructor’s Workshop IFIW. The next IFIW in 2025 will be in Denver, Colorado. Links from todays chat: Fire Ventilation, Stefan Svensson: https://www.msb.se/siteassets/dokument/publikationer/english-publications/fire-ventilation.pdf Water and Other Extinguishing agents: https://rib.msb.se/filer/pdf/23061.pdf Enclosure Fires, Lars-Göran Bengtsson: https://rib.msb.se/filer/pdf/20782.pdf And obviously cfbt.be as we mentioned it few times: http://www.cfbt-be.com/en/ ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| CHANGE - Embracing, Embedding and Managing through it with Louise Diffey at WFS 2024 | 11 Jul 2024 | 00:29:30 | |
Today I'm speaking with Louise Diffey from Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue service about how we Embrace, Embed and Manage through the ever changing landscape of the First responders working life and also discuss mental models that are useful when thinking about how we manage change in our own lives as well. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #311 High Rise Firefighting with Brent Brooks | 08 Jul 2024 | 01:29:58 | |
We only feature the latest 200 episodes of the podcast on public platforms so to access our podcast LIBRARY, every Debrief & document CLICK HERE HAIX is considered a top brand of functional shoes for fire fighters, police, and army worldwide. PATROL STORE Providing kit, bags, clothing and equipment to first responder community for any tactical situation. MSA MSA provides the highest quality safety products across the world for first responders GORE-TEX Professional Fire industry protection against open flames & contaminants while keeping optimum body temperature. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #310 The World of Search & Rescue with Dave O'Neill MBE part 2 of 2 | 01 Jul 2024 | 01:30:06 | |
This is our follow up from #308 - the second part episode with Dave O'Neill MBE. Dave retired from London Fire Brigade as AC of Special Projects in October of 2023 following an incredible career spanning 3 decades in the UK Fire & Rescue Service. In the 2021 New Years Honours he was awarded an MBE for masterminding the fire service support to the Ambulance service and PMART (the multi agency response to covid related deaths at home). He finished his career as the head of Head of Rescue/IEC/International Operations for LFB and now works as the Director of Operations Institute of Search and Technical Rescue, Chair of Fire Aid and International Development and many other personal and professional commitments spending time giving back to the world of Search & rescue. We only feature the latest 200 episodes of the podcast on public platforms so to access our podcast LIBRARY, every Debrief & document CLICK HERE ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #309 Debrief: The Smithfield Market Fire January 23rd 1958 | 26 Jun 2024 | 00:38:43 | |
In the early hours of Thursday 23rd January 1958, local firefighters arrived at the Smithfield Meat Market. By the time the blaze was finally contained, days later, two members of the London Fire Brigade were dead and a further twenty-six firefighters were hospitalised. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #308 The World of Search & Rescue with Dave O'Neill MBE Part 1 of 2 | 24 Jun 2024 | 01:19:35 | |
Dave O'Neill MBE retired from London Fire Brigade as AC of Special Projects in October of 2023 following an incredible career spanning 3 decades in the UK Fire & Rescue Service. In the 2021 New Years Honours he was awarded an MBE for masterminding the fire service support to the Ambulance service and PMART (the multi agency response to covid related deaths at home). He finished his career as the head of Head of Rescue/IEC/International Operations for LFB and now works as the Director of Operations Institute of Search and Technical Rescue, Chair of Fire Aid and International Development and many other personal and professional commitments spending time giving back to the world of Search & rescue. We only feature the latest 200 episodes of the podcast on public platforms so to access our podcast LIBRARY, every Debrief & document CLICK HERE ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #307 Incident Command Development Team at WFS 2024 | 17 Jun 2024 | 01:00:42 | |
This episode was recorded at the 22nd annual Woman In The Fire Service with the Incident command team leading on the multi incident scenarios and developing firefighters and commanders. Women in the Fire Service UK (WFS) was set up in the 1990s with its purpose of Enabling and inspiring confident and successful women to build a more progressive Fire and Rescue Service. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #404 Fuel What Matters: Performance, Recovery & Supplementation with Dan Peskett, Martin Boyce & Xendurance | 02 Oct 2025 | 01:42:21 | |
Endurance sports have never been bigger—running, triathlon, Hyrox, cycling, and now the rise of firefighter challenge events are pulling more and more people into the world of testing limits. At the heart of these challenges lies a key performance barrier: lactate threshold and that familiar muscle burn that can shut you down when intensity peaks. It’s about finding ways to go further without hitting the wall. In this episode, I’m joined by Dan Peskett from Xendurance and my good friend Martin Boyce from the UK Fire and Rescue Service to explore how athletes and tactical professionals can push harder for longer. We dive into lactate and muscle acidosis, creatine’s role in both strength and cognitive performance, fuelling strategies for sustained energy, and why recovery and immune support are essential when training load is high. This conversation is all about connecting endurance science to real-world performance—whether you’re racing, taking on a firefighter challenge, training for a marathon, or responding to the unexpected, it’s about fueling what matters and staying sharp for the long run. Access all episodes, documents, GIVEAWAYS & debriefs HERE Join me on the United for 9/11: Memorial Stair Climb – Atlanta 2026 HERE Podcast Apparel, Hoodies, Flags, Mugs HERE PODCAST GIFT - FREE subscription to essential Firefighting publications HERE A big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode.
***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| The Diabetes Epidemic & How its affecting first responders with Kate Walker | 15 Jun 2024 | 00:50:27 | |
10 June to Sunday 16 June is National Diabetes Week - Type 2 diabetes is a national health emergency in the UK. For every 1,000 employees, 82 have diabetes, 20 of these do not know they have the condition – the majority of people have no symptoms when they are diagnosed. Given how much time we spend at work, workplaces are a significant factor in our personal risk of developing type 2 diabetes and our ability to manage diabetes if we have the condition. diabetes is the leading cause of blindness in the working-age population and causes 190 limb amputations a week (outcomes referred to as ‘diabetes complications’). Around 500 people die prematurely each week in the UK from diabetes as the primary cause. This is a growing concern for first responder workers as our life styles, diets, sleep & work conditions can lead us to be more susceptible to this condition. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| Siobhan AKA The Fire Mum at WFS 2024 | 12 Jun 2024 | 00:26:02 | |
Siobhan is a 38 year old mother of 2 and more recently a firefighter in London Fire Brigade. Whilst going through her application process she realised there was no one explicitly sharing their journey through the training process in the fire service. This is why she set up thefiremum. She wanted to create a safe space where she can share her journey, any tips along the way and allow others to ask questions. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #306 TELSTAR HOUSE DEBRIEF - LONDON 2003 with Chris Westfield | 10 Jun 2024 | 03:22:55 | |
Chris Westfield started his Fire service career in 2003 whereby within the same year he was involved in a near death experience operationally at what became known as the TELSTAR HOUSE fire. A 20 Pump High-rise Fire; Telstar House was located on Eastbourne Terrace, Paddington, London. It’s an office building that was constructed during the late 60’s, the building did not have a sprinkler installation and the floors are set up with open space office landscapes. London Fire Brigade mobilized 135 firefighters to this incident. This incident early in his career led Chris down a passionate path studying fire behaviour and firefighting tactics. Chris became an instructor creating courses and delivering for London Fire brigade the fire service college & subsequently in his role still now in the UKFRS. Chris still serves operationally and in training alongside his current role in fire protection whereby he is using his broad exposure and experience to help drive change within the commercial sector while still delivering fire behaviour training to serving firefighters. Links for today’s episode references: High Rise Fire-fighting: Telstar House (highrisefirefighting.co.uk) A black day in E3. – A retired London Fireman (home.blog) Disused warehouse fire - Bethnal Green | London Fire Brigade (london-fire.gov.uk) ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #305 Welsh Firefighter Challenge Event Debrief 2024 | 05 Jun 2024 | 00:52:16 | |
The Welsh Firefighter Challenge is a regional sporting event run alongside The British Firefighter Challenge. It is for both serving and retired firefighters. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #304 Manchester Arena Bombing Debrief & lessons learned with John Fletcher | 03 Jun 2024 | 03:02:54 | |
At just after 22:30hrs on Monday 22nd May 2017, a suicide bomber detonated an improvised device at the Manchester Arena in the UK where around 14,000 people, mainly teenagers and family, had travelled from across the UK to attend the concert of Ariana Grande. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| Bonus Episode: It is not the mountain we conquer but ourselves - An adventure with Daisy Byron & Clare Fletcher from Women Wanderers 999 | 30 May 2024 | 00:43:08 | |
On this Bonus episode we joined Daisy Byron, Clare Fletcher & 160+ first responders from 31 fire and rescue services across the UK for an adventure in the peak district. hear about how this whole event came about and how to get involved yourself. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #303 Andy Starnes Understanding Thermal Imagery, Your Leadership Style & the key to survive the fire service | 27 May 2024 | 01:59:03 | |
Andy Starnes joined the Fire Service in 1991. Serving 12 years as a firefighter & then Captain on an Engine Company before being assigned to Battalion Chief in a busy Metropolitan area in the United States. He retired in 2023 after 25 years. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| Lancashire IFE CPD 6 of 6 Closing Round Table Discussion | 25 May 2024 | 01:09:07 | |
This mini series of 6 episodes comes from an event attended by the podcast in 2024 hosted by Lancashire Fire & Rescue and it was an IFE CPD event focussed on Structural firefighting & Tactical Ventilation lead by John McDonough & Karel Lambert. Both well respected international fire behaviour instructors. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| Lancashire IFE CPD 5 of 6 Knowing the spread with John McDonough | 23 May 2024 | 01:23:24 | |
This mini series of 6 episodes comes from an event attended by the podcast in 2024 hosted by Lancashire Fire & Rescue and it was an IFE CPD event focussed on Structural firefighting & Tactical Ventilation lead by John McDonough & Karel Lambert. Both well respected international fire behaviour instructors. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| Lancashire IFE CPD 4 of 6 Three kinds of fire with Karel Lambert | 21 May 2024 | 01:00:07 | |
This mini series of 6 episodes comes from an event attended by the podcast in 2024 hosted by Lancashire Fire & Rescue and it was an IFE CPD event focussed on Structural firefighting & Tactical Ventilation lead by John McDonough & Karel Lambert. Both well respected international fire behaviour instructors. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #403 ESS LIVE Confidence, Challenge, and Change: WFS with Siobhan & Ellie | 01 Oct 2025 | 00:29:36 | |
Welcome back to our Emergency Service Show 2025 collaboration series. In this episode, we shine a light on Women in the Fire Service and not as a separate chapter, but as a vital force shaping the fire service of today and tomorrow. I’m joined by two brilliant guests. Siobhan, better known as Shiv, or The Fire Mum—a London Fire Brigade firefighter who’s been blazing a trail with honesty, advocacy, and a whole lot of passion for leaving breadcrumbs for the next generation. Alongside her is Ellie, a Norfolk firefighter and national representative for Women in the Fire Service UK, whose story shows just how powerful this movement is in creating support, confidence, and belonging in a role that can still feel isolating at times. We talk about why WFS feels different to everyday fire service life, how confidence and imposter syndrome play out in our sector, the realities of menopause, maternity, and balance on the watch, and why inclusion isn’t about lowering standards—it’s about raising the whole game. This one’s real, raw, and packed with insight. Let’s get into it. Access all episodes, documents, GIVEAWAYS & debriefs HERE Join me on the United for 9/11: Memorial Stair Climb – Atlanta 2026 HERE Podcast Apparel, Hoodies, Flags, Mugs HERE PODCAST GIFT - FREE subscription to essential Firefighting publications HERE A big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode.
***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #302 That HYROX Firefighter - Andy Watt's Challenge in aid of Maggie's Cancer Centres & Macmillan | 20 May 2024 | 00:57:32 | |
Andy Watt is an operational firefighter i the UK and in may of 2024 In aid of Maggie's Cancer Centres and Macmillan, Andy took on his 7th HYROX wearing full firefighter PPE including SCBA set. After weeks of tough training, Watt smashed the course in 2 hours and 9 minutes. Andy is also a professional coach developing athletes to undertake HYROX challenges among other health & fitness goals. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| Lancashire IFE CPD 3 of 6 Rules for Leadership with Karel Lambert | 19 May 2024 | 00:45:18 | |
This mini series of 6 episodes comes from an event attended by the podcast in 2024 hosted by Lancashire Fire & Rescue and it was an IFE CPD event focussed on Structural firefighting & Tactical Ventilation lead by John McDonough & Karel Lambert. Both well respected international fire behaviour instructors. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| Lancashire IFE CPD 2 of 6 the Non Negotiables with John McDonough | 17 May 2024 | 01:19:16 | |
This mini series of 6 episodes comes from an event attended by the podcast in 2024 hosted by Lancashire Fire & Rescue and it was an IFE CPD event focussed on Structural firefighting & Tactical Ventilation lead by John McDonough & Karel Lambert. Both well respected international fire behaviour instructors. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| Lancashire IFE CPD 1 of 6 Structural Firefighting & Tactical Ventilation with John McDonough & Karel Lambert | 15 May 2024 | 00:43:38 | |
This mini series of 6 episodes comes from an event attended by the podcast in 2024 hosted by Lancashire Fire & Rescue and it was an IFE CPD event focussed on Structural firefighting & Tactical Ventilation lead by John McDonough & Karel Lambert. Both well respected international fire behaviour instructors. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #301 Leadership & The Impact we have on others with Carl Boasman | 13 May 2024 | 02:09:35 | |
After 31 years’ service, upon retirement from the Fire and Rescue Service in October 2023, Carl started providing organisational and leadership development, coaching and mentoring support. Carl joined North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service as a Firefighter in 1992, in 2020, Carl was appointed as the Assistant Chief Fire Officer and Director of Community Protection for Cleveland Fire Brigade, with strategic level responsibility for operations where he finished his career. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #300 How to get the best people in the right roles in the fire service with Occupational Psychologist Hannah Valance | 09 May 2024 | 01:00:28 | |
Many of us will have sat through an interview, promotion board or similar and thought "who put this together". Despite best intentions some of them are a shambles with very little consistency and not driven by data or experience. It might be the first time that person has ever interviewed anyone and has had 30 minutes of training on how to mark the "tick sheet". ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #299 The Poet Firefighter with Gerard Devine | 06 May 2024 | 01:55:04 | |
Gerard Devine is an award-winning Irish poet who lives a life less ordinary. Prior to joining the fire brigade, Gerard spent many years working on the building sites of Dublin, Boston and San Francisco. He still plies his building skills by volunteering to work in third-world countries such as Africa. An animal and nature lover Gerard recently moved up into the inspiring Wicklow mountains where he lives in harmony with nature with wife Stephanie and their rescue dog Saoirse. While his favourite poet is the wonderful WB Yeats much of Gerard’s poetry is inspired by Irish ballads and singers like Shane McGowan and Christy Moore. Gerard’s poetry is now being studied there which is a great honour to the Dublin native. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| The Secret to Functional First Responder Fitness with TRX | 01 May 2024 | 00:34:25 | |
Fire station gyms are typically small and with limited kit and space you want to maximise your time, resource, budget & equipment choice, this is where TRX come in. The smartest gym is the one you already own — your body. TRX powers it by making everything else around it as challenging as you need it. Things like balance, power, stability, functionality & time under tension — everything a first responder needs to do get strong, get fast, move better than ever before not just ow but for your whole career and beyond. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #298 Becoming a Firefighter Challenge Gold Medallist & Growing Self Confidence with Helena Brown | 29 Apr 2024 | 00:42:51 | |
Helena Brown is a UK Firefighter who in 2023 burst on the scene of the firefighter challenge community winning the British firefighter challenge. She then joined in in Saudi Arabia winning more medals at the toughest firefighter alive in 2024. She will be returning to the Firefighter challenge circuit this year and today she shares her experience of joining the fire service and growing herself confidence and self belief whist putting herself around other high performers to help her grow and develop personally and professionally. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #297 Highs and Lows of Forces Life from the Longest Serving Female RAF Chinook Force Crewmember with Liz McConaghy | 22 Apr 2024 | 01:32:10 | |
Liz McConaghy was the longest serving female crewman on the Royal Air Force Chinook Fleet spanning a 17 year career flying on the aircraft. Originally from a small town in Northern Ireland she attended RAF Cranwell on her 19th birthday to begin her exciting career thereafter on Chinook Helicopters. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #402 DEBRIEF: The Great Chicago Fire of 1871 | 29 Sep 2025 | 00:14:24 | |
In this Denrief episode, we step back to October 1871 and relive the night Chicago became a city on fire. What began as a small barn blaze on DeKoven Street turned into a chain of wind-driven infernos that destroyed over 17,000 buildings, left a third of the city homeless, and claimed hundreds of lives. We break down the fire’s mysterious origins, the tactical failures that let it spiral out of control, and the human cost of one of history’s most infamous urban disasters. But this story isn’t just about destruction — it’s about resilience, innovation, and legacy. Out of the ashes came modern fire codes, architectural revolutions, and a stronger Chicago Fire Department that today responds to nearly 900,000 calls a year. Join us as we debrief the Great Chicago Fire, separating myth from fact, uncovering lessons for firefighters, and exploring how this tragedy shaped the city and the fire service as we know it. Access all episodes, documents, GIVEAWAYS & debriefs HERE Join me on the United for 9/11: Memorial Stair Climb – Atlanta 2026 HERE Podcast Apparel, Hoodies, Flags, Mugs HERE PODCAST GIFT - FREE subscription to essential Firefighting publications HERE A big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode.
***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #296 Are all Firefighters Bullies - A Conversation on Workplace Culture with Dr Jason Price | 15 Apr 2024 | 01:37:21 | |
Are all Firefighters Bullies. If you were to read the papers each week you may well hold this view but like so many things in life its a very small number that can build a bad stereotype of a group of individuals that I feel very proud to be part of. Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon C ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #295 How a routine Firefighter Health screening discovered my Brain Tumour with Carla Morrison | 11 Apr 2024 | 00:49:21 | |
Carla Morrison is a serving firefighter from Canada who during a routine Health screening discovered she has dramatically reduced hearing on one side. This discovery lead to further testing which showed a large brain tumour which threatened her career, her home life and possibly her life. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||
| #294 The Firefighting Gladiator with Bronte Jones | 08 Apr 2024 | 01:13:18 | |
Bronte Jones is a UK firefighter, weightlifter & contender on UK's GLADIATORS where she made it the finals. Gladiators is a sports entertainment TV show & one of the most defining game shows of the 90's in the UK, as well as across the globe. Athletic members of the public battle as Contenders against the shows very own mighty Gladiators to earn points in an array of events that tests their speed, strength, stamina and skill. ***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.*** Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew | |||