Explore every episode of the podcast The Cool Fireman Podcast

Does the fire service have an ego problem?

Matt, Brian, and Adam get into the difference between confidence and ego and what happens when rank, experience, reputation, and pride start getting in the way of good leadership.

Matt shares a story about reconnecting with a chief who knew him years ago when Matt was a young volunteer—and the first thing the chief did was apologize for how he treated younger firefighters back then. That kicks off a bigger conversation about self-awareness, owning your mistakes, and whether rank changes people or simply multiplies who they already are.

The guys talk about leading with love, praising in public and correcting in private, firehouse banter versus tearing people down, developing younger firefighters instead of waiting for them to fail, and why some departments mistake treating people poorly for maintaining a “standard.”

They also tackle the fire service’s social media culture. Are keyboard warriors and firefighter-bashing pages holding people accountable—or is some of it just ego hiding behind a screen?

Plus, Patreon updates, the September Prize Box, an incredible message from a listener, some classic firehouse stories, recruitment vs. retention, and a little Snail Mail to finish things off.

One question to think about after this episode:

Do you treat people the way you wanted to be treated when you were coming up—or are you becoming the firefighter you used to complain about?

Listen, follow, and share the episode with another firefighter.

🔥 The Cool Fireman Podcast

Train Clean, Fight Dirty | Ryan Conley of Carna Bunker Gear

Visit: Carna Bunker Gear

https://www.carnabunkergear.com/

This week, we’re joined by Ryan Conley from Carna Bunker Gear for a conversation about firefighter training, cancer prevention, fitness, and why we may need to rethink how often we train in our frontline turnout gear.

Ryan shares how his background as a firefighter, strength athlete, coach, and exercise physiology nerd eventually led to the creation of Carna Bunker Gear — training gear designed to give firefighters the weight and thermal challenges of bunker gear without unnecessarily training in contaminated frontline PPE.

We get into PFAS, PAHs, dirty gear, SCBAs, apparatus contamination, decon, thermal adaptation, firefighter fitness, and the cumulative exposures firefighters face throughout a 20–30 year career.

But the conversation goes beyond cancer.

How hard should you actually work out while you're on duty? Could crushing yourself during a workout make you a liability if the tones drop five minutes later? And has the fire service gone too far with “safety culture”… or are we finally getting smarter about risks we can actually control?

Adam also asks one of the biggest questions of the episode:

Was it worth it?

Despite the risks, injuries, sleepless nights, cancer concerns, and everything this career asks of us — for the families we showed up for on the worst days of their lives, the answer is still YES.

We also close this episode by recognizing the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, remembering the 343 firefighters who made the ultimate sacrifice and those we have continued to lose in the years since.

Never Forget. 🇺🇸

Follow The Cool Fireman Podcast and join us as we continue the firehouse conversation.

Fire departments across the country are trying to figure out how to recruit the next generation of firefighters—but what if recruitment isn't the biggest problem?

What if we need to get better at keeping the people we already have?

This week, the guys get into recruitment vs. retention and what actually makes firefighters want to stay at—or leave—a department. Is it money? Benefits? Leadership? Morale? Call volume? Training opportunities? Station culture? Or is the schedule becoming one of the biggest deciding factors?

Adam makes a simple point that drives much of the conversation: take care of your people, and they'll recruit for you.

From there, things get heated.

We talk about departments spending big money recruiting new employees while veteran employees feel forgotten, firefighters leaving the profession altogether, leadership and accountability, lateral hiring, 24/72 vs. 48/96 schedules, mandatory overtime, burnout, and whether departments are willing to change fast enough to keep good people.

Then Doug takes the conversation somewhere bigger:

Why are we working ourselves to death?

Life is short. Money matters—but so do your family, friends, hobbies, and the life you're supposed to be living when you're not at the firehouse.

This one has some laughs, some arguments, some strong opinions, and a whole lot of firehouse conversation.

SPONSORS:

THE BURN BOX: theburnbox.com

UNKIES SEASONINGS: unkiesseasonings.com

🔥 QUESTION FOR YOU:
What matters MOST when choosing a fire department—and what would make you leave the one you're at?

Recruitment? Retention? Leadership? Pay? Schedule? Culture?

Let us know.

And if you've made it this far with us, join the crew on Patreon for behind-the-scenes content, the Turnout Drill, and your chance to win the monthly Patreon Prize Box.

The Cool Fireman Podcast — Firehouse Talk Without the HR Department.

If you could design the perfect fire station from scratch, what would it look like?

This week on The Cool Fireman Podcast, Matt, Brian, and Adam are designing their dream firehouse—and quickly realize there’s a lot more to fire station design than apparatus bays and a kitchen table.

Should administrative offices be separated from firefighter living quarters? Should every shift have its own refrigerator? Individual bunk rooms or good old-fashioned gen pop? How many bathrooms does a firehouse actually need? And perhaps the most important question of the episode: Is it acceptable to destroy the bathroom right before the crew brushes their teeth?

Yeah…we went there.

The guys also talk about designing modern fire stations for firefighter health, privacy, staffing, decontamination, female firefighters, hurricane upstaffing, turnout times, fitness rooms, kitchens, bathrooms, bunk rooms, and the traditions that make a firehouse feel like a firehouse.

We also highlight Paddling for Pennies, answer listener questions about firefighter interviews and getting hired, and revisit the conversation with Tonya Herbert about PAH exposure and firefighter cancer prevention—including why the engineer operating the pump may be exposed to more contaminants than many firefighters realize.

Some traditions are worth protecting. Others might be worth leaving in the 1970s.

What would YOUR perfect fire station have?

Join the conversation and follow The Cool Fireman Podcast wherever you listen.

🔥 Firefighter culture
🔥 Fire station design
🔥 Firefighter health & cancer prevention
🔥 Firefighter career advice
🔥 Firehouse traditions
🔥 And plenty of completely unnecessary bathroom discussion

If you could go back to the night before your very first day in the fire service and sit down with your younger self… what would you tell them?

Buckle up.

This week, Matt, Doug, and Unkie are going back in time and looking at their careers through the eyes of the firefighters they used to be.

Would we still become firefighters knowing everything we know now? What would our rookie selves think of the firefighters we became? What parts of the old fire service would we bring back? And what habits do we wish we'd started on DAY ONE?

The conversation gets deeper than we expected as we talk about the good, the bad, and the ugly of the job—the camaraderie, friendships, incredible wins, trauma, mental health, taking care of yourself, and learning to give yourself a little grace along the way.

We also recap our trip to SAFRE in Raleigh, give some well-deserved shoutouts, read your comments in Snail Mail, revisit the biggest wastes of money in the fire service, and somehow end up talking about plastic straws, DEF systems, old-school fire engines, Bitcoin, and why you should always clean up after yourself at the firehouse.

Would we do it all over again?

Absolutely.

🔥 Support The Cool Fireman Podcast on Patreon
🔥 Grab some Cool Fireman merch
🔥 Check out our sponsors Unkie's Seasonings and Burn Box
🔥 Follow us on social media and join the conversation

What would YOU tell your rookie self?

#Firefighter #FireService #TheCoolFiremanPodcast

What Would You Buy With an Unlimited Fire Department Budget? 🚒💰

The Cool Fireman Podcast is LIVE from Raleigh, North Carolina at the South Atlantic Fire Rescue Expo (SAFRE)!

For the first time, the guys are all together at the booth, surrounded by fire apparatus, equipment, technology, and just about every possible way a fire department could spend money.

So we asked the obvious question:

If your department handed you an open checkbook, what are you buying?

Matt is looking at a high-tech command vehicle loaded with drone capabilities. Doug wants to strengthen the ladder truck fleet. Adam wants quality new engines and better reserves. Brian has his eyes on a rescue truck for his volunteer department.

But the conversation gets bigger than just buying cool stuff.

When does technology actually make firefighters safer and more efficient? When does it become overkill? Should departments spend money replacing apparatus, refurbishing what they already have, or investing in new technology? And how much should the individual needs of your community determine where that money goes?

We also get into apparatus replacement cycles, reserve fleets, preventive maintenance, drones, command vehicles, firefighter safety, department pride, retention, and why attending conferences like SAFRE can expose you to ideas you'd never see inside your own department.

And yes… we're recording live from the conference floor, so naturally there's plenty of chaos along the way.

Now it's your turn:

You're walking into SAFRE with an unlimited fire department checkbook.

What are you buying first?

Huge thanks to Unkie's Seasoning, Burn Box, and Operation Yellow Tape for supporting us at SAFRE.

Thanks for listening to The Cool Fireman Podcast!

STAND YOUR GROUND: Firehouse Morale, Leadership & Elite Training

This week, Brian brings a new game to the table: Stand Your Ground. We give our answer, defend it, and see where the conversation takes us.

Would you rather be the chief of a department with unlimited funding but terrible morale—or lead a department everyone loves that's constantly short staffed?

Would you rather have the best officer you've ever worked for or the best crew you've ever worked with?

Would you rather work at a fun station with average training or a serious station with elite training?

And would you trust AI to help recommend fireground tactics?

Those questions lead us into a much bigger conversation about firehouse culture, leadership, morale, company pride, tradition, training, succession planning, and why you can't simply throw money at a bad culture and expect it to get better.

Matt shares a story about bringing back an old Laguna Beach Fire Department shirt and why the department doesn't want those duty shirts sold to the public. Brian talks about honoring the generations that came before us, and Adam somehow takes that conversation completely off the rails with a story about firefighters buying chief shirts specifically to donate them to thrift stores. 😂

We also get back into the 24/72 vs. 48/96 debate, overtime implications, staffing, vacation time, and whether the newest schedule everyone is talking about is actually the best schedule in the fire service.

Plus, we're headed to SAFRE in Raleigh, North Carolina! Come hang out with The Cool Fireman Podcast August 14–15 at Booth 307.

What would YOUR answers be to the Stand Your Ground questions?

Follow The Cool Fireman Podcast so you never miss an episode.

What started as a discussion about the best firefighter work schedule quickly turned into a deep dive into recruitment, retention, staffing, and the future of the fire service.

Visit:

TheCoolFireman.com

UnkiesSeasonings.com

TheBurnBox.com

Matt, Brian, and Adam compare some of the most common shift schedules, including 48/96, 24/72, 24/48, and other regional variations, while sharing firsthand experiences from their own departments. Matt explains why he's become a huge fan of the 48/96 schedule, Brian discusses Greenville Fire Rescue's transition to a 24/72 schedule, and Adam shares how Norfolk is using laterals and competitive schedules to attract firefighters from neighboring departments.

The guys also tackle the realities of staffing shortages, mandatory overtime, succession planning, firefighter recruitment, and why departments have to think years ahead before making major operational changes. Is it really cheaper to pay overtime than hire another firefighter? How do departments prepare enough engineers and captains to support a fourth shift? And could better schedules become one of the biggest recruiting tools in the fire service?

Before diving into the main topic, the crew announces this month's Patreon Perks winner, talks about preparations for SAFRE, gives updates from Unkie's Seasonings and Burn Box, and honors firefighters who recently made the ultimate sacrifice. They also discuss the devastating tornado damage at the Pierce Manufacturing facilities in Appleton, Wisconsin, and what that could mean for the fire service across the country.

Whether your department works 24/48, 48/96, 24/72, or something completely different, this episode is packed with honest discussion about what works, what doesn't, and what the future of firefighter scheduling may look like.

As always, thank you for listening and for being part of The Cool Fireman Podcast family. We'd love to hear from you. What schedule does your department work, and if you could choose any schedule, what would it be?

Why do so many firefighters criticize the NFPA and IAFF? Is it really about unnecessary regulations, or is there more to the story?

In Episode 169 of The Cool Fireman Podcast, Matt, Brian, and Adam dive into one of the most debated topics in the fire service. Sparked by hundreds of comments on social media, they discuss firefighter safety standards, turnout gear, apparatus requirements, union involvement, and why so many firefighters have strong opinions about the organizations that help shape the profession.

The conversation also explores leadership in the fire service, why chiefs often receive criticism, and the importance of understanding the "why" behind policies before writing them off.

Whether you agree or disagree, this episode is all about having an honest conversation that challenges assumptions and encourages firefighters to think deeper.

In this episode:
🔥 Why firefighters criticize the NFPA
🔥 The real purpose of firefighter safety standards
🔥 IAFF's role in protecting firefighters
🔥 Turnout gear, apparatus standards, and firefighter health
🔥 Leadership, chiefs, and department culture
🔥 Lessons learned from social media discussions
🔥 Honoring firefighters we've recently lost

If you enjoy these conversations, please LIKE this video, SUBSCRIBE to the channel, and leave a comment below.

Question of the day:
Do you think the NFPA has helped or hurt the fire service? We'd love to hear your perspective in the comments.

🎙️ Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.

🔥 Support the podcast on Patreon for behind-the-scenes content, bonus episodes, giveaways, and more.

🌐 Website: https://thecoolfireman.com

#firefighter #fireservice #NFPA #IAFF #leadership #firedepartment #firepodcast #TheCoolFiremanPodcast #firstresponders #firetraining

What makes someone the firefighter everyone wants to work with?

In this episode, Matt and Doug play "Finish the Sentence" and let the conversation take over. From firehouse culture and leadership to rookie mistakes, truck company operations, cooking at the station, and even dream jobs outside the fire service, this episode is packed with laughs and real conversations from two firefighters who have lived it.

Along the way, they also discuss:

- Why adaptability is one of the most important firefighter traits.

- The quickest ways to lose respect in the firehouse.

- What separates great rookies from average ones.

- Why the kitchen table is still the heart of every station.

- The best types of fires to respond to (and why).

- Truck company expectations and interior firefighter mindset.

- Firehouse traditions worth keeping—and a few worth questioning.

- SAFRE Expo updates and what to expect from The Cool Fireman Podcast booth.

- Patreon, Burn Box, FD Collectors Club, Unkie's Seasoning, and more.

They also answer listener comments from Spotify and TikTok, including a discussion about fire department spending and one firefighter's journey into the profession.

Whether you're a rookie, seasoned firefighter, volunteer, officer, or simply love the fire service, this episode has something for everyone.

🔥 Question of the Week:
Finish this sentence...
"The kitchen table should always..."

Leave your answer in the comments!

🎙️ Support the Podcast

- Follow & Subscribe wherever you listen.

- Join our Patreon for behind-the-scenes content, bonus videos, giveaways, and monthly Patreon Perks.

- Check out our sponsors:

🚒 See us at SAFRE in Raleigh, NC!

#Firefighter #FireService #Firehouse #Leadership #TruckCompany #EngineCompany #FirefighterPodcast #TheCoolFiremanPodcast #EMS #FireTraining

Is it equipment? Training? EMS supplies? Something else entirely?

In this episode of The Cool Fireman Podcast, Matt and Brian tackle a topic every firefighter has an opinion on: where does the fire service waste the most money—and where should we actually be investing it? From bottled water and disposable supplies to expired medications, conference budgets, uniforms, and station culture, they dive into the difficult balance between stewardship and providing firefighters with the tools they need to succeed.

The conversation goes beyond dollars and cents. Brian shares why transparency with crews matters when discussing budgets, while Matt offers the perspective from the firehouse floor—where many firefighters understandably think, "Not my problem." Together they explore how leadership can bridge that gap through communication, trust, and showing crews the return on investment when departments save money.

The episode also includes:

- A Patreon update and July Patreon Perks winner

- Sponsor updates from Unkie's Seasonings, Burn Box, FD Collectors Club, and Operation Yellow Tape

- A heartfelt moment of silence for firefighters and families facing difficult times

- Listener comments and Snail Mail

- A discussion about paycheck protection, FMLA, and protecting your family if you're injured off duty

Whether you're a firefighter, company officer, chief officer, volunteer, or simply interested in how fire departments operate, this episode offers practical leadership lessons and a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges of managing public resources.

- Biggest wastes of money in the fire service

- Transparency in fire department budgets

- Why small expenses add up

- Training vs. equipment funding

- ROI in the fire service

- Building trust between chiefs and firefighters

- Leadership through communication

- Firefighter financial responsibility

- Patreon updates & listener mail

- Protecting your paycheck

🎙️ If you enjoyed this episode, please follow The Cool Fireman Podcast on Spotify, leave a rating, and share it with another firefighter. Your support helps us continue bringing real conversations from the firehouse every week.

What should firefighters do when they're off duty?

This week, the guys tackle a listener question from Squawk, a brand-new firefighter getting ready to start his career. They discuss why every firefighter needs hobbies outside the fire service, how to balance them with family life, and which hobbies can actually become unhealthy.

The conversation covers everything from golf, fishing, smoking meat, lawn care, softball, Disney trips, and camping... to why your hobby should never become more important than your spouse or kids.

The crew also announces the July Patreon Perks winner, talks about new Unkie's Seasonings taste-testing, Burn Box gear, honors firefighters and loved ones lost in the line of duty, and answers listener comments from social media.

Whether you're a rookie firefighter or have decades on the job, this episode is a reminder that taking care of yourself—and your family—is part of being a great firefighter.

In This Episode:

- Why firefighters need hobbies outside of work

- Can certain hobbies become unhealthy?

- Balancing the fire service with family life

- Mental health and finding healthy outlets

- Golf, fishing, cooking, camping & other firefighter hobbies

- The importance of paycheck protection for risky hobbies

- July Patreon Perks giveaway winner

- Unkie's Seasonings community flavor project

- Burn Box gear spotlight

- Honoring firefighters and loved ones we've lost

- Listener questions & Snail Mail

If you're enjoying the show, consider joining our Patreon community for bonus content, behind-the-scenes videos, giveaways, and exclusive perks.

Stay safe... and remember:

Laugh. Learn. Support.

Timestamps:

00:00 - Robotic vacuums & opening banter
01:20 - Doug's hair dye update
02:20 - Listener question: Firefighter hobbies
03:10 - Patreon updates & new members
04:30 - Unkie's Seasonings community flavor project
08:15 - Burn Box spotlight
10:20 - July Patreon Perks winner announced
12:30 - Honoring Captain Dee Barbara
15:30 - Honoring fallen firefighters
20:20 - Why every firefighter needs a hobby
21:30 - Are some hobbies unacceptable?
23:45 - Family balance vs. personal hobbies
33:00 - Favorite hobbies and why they matter
42:30 - Protecting your paycheck with risky hobbies
43:30 - Do firefighters have enough time for hobbies?
49:00 - Hobbies we wish we had
52:00 - Would You Rather: One expensive hobby or five cheap hobbies?
56:30 - Snail Mail & listener comments
1:04:00 - Final thoughts & Patreon reminder

Follow The Cool Fireman Podcast:

🚒 Weekly episodes featuring firefighters from across the country

🎧 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, iHeartRadio, and wherever you listen to podcasts.

#Firefighter #FireService #FirefighterPodcast #MentalHealth #Leadership #FirstResponders #TheCoolFiremanPodcast

This week on The Cool Fireman Podcast, the crew tackles one of the biggest challenges firefighters face—and it has nothing to do with fighting fires.

What starts as a listener question about rank and responsibility quickly turns into a powerful conversation about leadership, sacrifice, family, and the pressure that comes with serving others. From firefighters on the engine to chief officers answering calls long after they leave the station, the discussion explores how every rank carries a different kind of responsibility.

One of the most impactful moments comes when Matt says:

"The hardest thing you'll ever do is look in the mirror and be honest."

Brian builds on that thought by explaining that firefighters are often addicted to service. Even on their days off, many struggle to stop helping others, answer one more phone call, volunteer for one more responsibility, or put the job ahead of themselves and their families. The crew discusses why balance is one of the hardest lessons to learn in the fire service.

In This Episode:

- Why leadership becomes more complicated with every promotion

- The sacrifices families make that often go unnoticed

- The importance of perspective across every rank

- Why firefighters struggle to disconnect from the job

- Looking in the mirror and taking honest accountability

- How service can become an addiction

- Why empathy matters more than assumptions

- Finding balance between faith, family, and the fire service

Also in this episode:

- Welcome to our newest Patreon Engineer members

- July Patreon Perks giveaway announcement

- Little Station 5 collaboration update

- Burn Box and FD Collectors Club highlights

- Unkie's Seasoning updates and upcoming releases

- Listener mail discussing PTSD, firefighter photos, and social media professionalism

- Preview of next week's discussion on firefighter hobbies and life outside the station

This episode is a reminder that while firefighters dedicate their lives to serving others, true leadership starts with being honest with yourself.

If you're a firefighter, officer, volunteer, or anyone striving to lead well, this conversation is one you won't want to miss.

Support The Cool Fireman Podcast
Join our Patreon community for bonus episodes, behind-the-scenes content, Turnout Drills, and monthly Patreon Perks giveaways.

#Firefighter #FireService #Leadership #FirefighterPodcast #TheCoolFiremanPodcast #FirefighterLife #FirstResponder #Firehouse #LeadershipDevelopment #MentalHealth #SelfReflection #FireCaptain #Brotherhood #VolunteerFirefighter #CareerFirefighter #FireDepartment #StationLife #FaithFamilyFire #PersonalGrowth #FirehouseCulture

This week on The Cool Fireman Podcast, Matt, Brian, and Adam tackle one of the most controversial topics in the fire service:

🚒 When does sharing become oversharing?

The conversation dives into firefighter social media use, taking photos at incidents, off-duty conduct, and whether firefighters should be held accountable for what they post online. What starts as a discussion about a recent fire service controversy turns into a deeper conversation about professionalism, public trust, and representing the badge both on and off duty.

• Should firefighters take photos at fire scenes?
• Where is the line between pride and poor judgment?
• Should firefighters be disciplined for off-duty social media posts?
• Does social media help or hurt the fire service?
• Why public perception matters more than ever
• The responsibility that comes with wearing the badge
• Firehouse traditions vs. modern-day scrutiny
• The power of professionalism on and off duty

• Patreon Perks winner shoutouts
• Benjamin Fry's Turn Out Drill answers
• The great pineapple-on-pizza debate 🍍🍕
• Favorite smells, mountain air, diesel fuel, and pipe tobacco
• New Patreon members and upcoming giveaways
• Little Station 5 collaboration announcement
• Updates from Unkie's Seasoning and Burn Box sponsors

The crew answers listener questions about:

• Fire service rank and family sacrifice
• Firefighter hobbies and off-duty activities
• Volunteer firefighter jokes (again...)
• Future episode ideas from the audience

Whether you're a career firefighter, volunteer, officer, or probationary firefighter, this episode is guaranteed to make you think about how we represent ourselves, our departments, and the fire service as a whole.

🔥 Join the conversation and let us know:

Should firefighters be disciplined for off-duty social media posts?

Support the Podcast:
Patreon: Exclusive behind-the-scenes content, Turn Out Drills, monthly giveaways, and more.

Sponsors:

• Unkie's Seasoning
• Burn Box
• Little Station 5

#Firefighter #FireService #Firehouse #SocialMedia #TheCoolFiremanPodcast #FirefighterLife #Leadership #FirstResponder #FireDepartment #FirefighterPodcast #Professionalism #VolunteerFirefighter #CareerFirefighter #FirehouseCulture #Brotherhood #FireRescue #EmergencyServices #FirefighterTraining #Podcast #FirehouseKitchenTable

In This Episode:Patreon & Community UpdatesSnail Mail

🚒 Would You Rather: White Shirt Edition Returns! 🚒

The boys are back with another round of firefighter debates, hot takes, and leadership conversations that hit a little deeper than usual.

This episode starts with some housekeeping, sponsor updates, Patreon shoutouts, and a heartfelt tribute to fallen firefighter Chief Harold Osborne before diving headfirst into a series of thought-provoking "True or False" discussions.

Topics include:

🔥 Are the best firefighters usually the quietest?
🔥 Is your reputation built more in the station or on the fireground?
🔥 Do firefighters eventually become the people they once complained about?
🔥 Can accountability and brotherhood truly coexist?
🔥 Are most leadership problems actually communication problems?
🔥 Does failure help people discover their purpose?
🔥 Who sacrifices more for a firefighter's career—the firefighter or their family?

The conversation gets real as Matt, Brian, and Unkie share personal experiences about leadership, promotion, family life, communication, and the realities of serving in the fire service. One of the most powerful discussions of the night centers around the sacrifices made by firefighter families and why they may be the true unsung heroes of the profession.

Plus, in this week's Snail Mail segment, the crew answers a listener's question about becoming a firefighter at 45 years old and why it's never too late to pursue a career that matters.

Featured Sponsors

🔥 Unkie's Seasoning
🔥 FD Collectors Club
🔥 Burn Box

Patreon Perks

Special thanks to our newest Engineer Tier member and congratulations to this month's Patreon Perks winner! We also preview some exciting upcoming giveaways with Little Station Five.

💬 Question of the Week:
True or False: Our families sacrifice more for our fire service careers than we do.

Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

🚒 Stay safe. Stay salty. Stay Cool.

Hot Take Meter: Are We Setting the Internet on Fire?

This week, the entire crew is back together—Matt, Doug, Brian, and Unkie—for a brand-new game called Hot Take Meter. Every statement gets ranked as a Cold Take, Warm Take, Hot Take, or Nuclear Take, and the guys aren't holding back.

From rookie cell phone policies and firehouse traditions to chiefs riding rigs and the ever-controversial topic of vertical ventilation, this episode dives headfirst into some of the fire service's most debated topics. Some takes spark healthy discussion. Others threaten to melt the comment section.

In This Episode:

🔥 Should rookies stay off their phones during shift?
🔥 Are firehouse traditions disappearing—and is that a good thing?
🔥 The surprising debate around vertical ventilation and modern fireground operations.
🔥 Should chiefs still ride rigs occasionally?
🔥 Uniform policies, professionalism, and firehouse culture.
🔥 A Patreon Turnout Drill winner is selected live!
🔥 June Patreon Perks winner Benjamin Fry gets his Burn Box package.
🔥 Little Station 5 joins forces with The Cool Fireman Podcast to sponsor July's Patreon Perks package.

Patreon Updates

A huge thank you to all of our Patreon supporters! This month’s Patreon Perks winner is Benjamin Fry, and July’s giveaway is being sponsored by our friends at Little Station 5 (Quinn and Travis) with an exclusive merch package.

Join Patreon today:

• Rookie Tier – $1/month
• Engineer Tier – $2/month (includes monthly giveaway eligibility)

Honoring Our Fallen

This episode also takes a moment to honor fallen firefighters:

• Josh Morgan
• Demair Lloyd
• Robert B.K. Kildruff Jr.

As well as K9 Knight and all first responders lost in the line of duty.

Question of the Week

What's your hottest fire service take?

Drop it in the comments and let us know if it's:
❄️ Cold
🌤️ Warm
🔥 Hot
☢️ Nuclear

🎙️ Subscribe, rate, and share the show.
🔥 Support the podcast at The Cool Fireman Podcast Patreon.
🚒 Follow us on social media for clips, giveaways, and behind-the-scenes content.

#FirefighterPodcast #TheCoolFiremanPodcast #HotTakeMeter #FirehouseCulture #FireService #FirefighterLife #TruckCompany #Leadership #FirefighterTraining #FirstResponder

🔥 WOULD YOU RATHER: FIREHOUSE EDITION 🔥

This week Matt and Doug bring back one of the podcast’s favorite formats with another hilarious and brutally honest game of “Would You Rather?” — firehouse style 👊

The guys debate everything from lazy firefighters vs know-it-alls, strict policy vs complete chaos, old salty captains vs overly motivated new captains, and whether respect from your crew matters more than admin approval 😂

Along the way they dive into:
🚒 Firehouse culture and leadership
🚒 Freelancing vs accountability on the fireground
🚒 EMS life and ambulance burnout
🚒 Old school experience vs new school motivation
🚒 Cooking at the station vs doing dishes
🚒 Promotions, trust, and earning respect
🚒 Retirement conversations in the fire service
🚒 Why freelancing can get firefighters hurt

The episode also includes:
🔥 Patreon Perks winner announcement
🔥 Updates from Unkie’s Seasoning and Burn Box
🔥 Snail Mail listener comments
🔥 Discussion on firefighter sleep deprivation and wellness

This one is packed with laughs, honest opinions, firehouse banter, and plenty of controversial takes that every firefighter can relate to.

👇 Drop your answers in the comments:
Would YOU rather work with a lazy firefighter or a know-it-all firefighter? 👀

🎙️ The Cool Fireman Podcast

#FirefighterPodcast #FirefighterLife #WouldYouRather #FirehouseHumor #Leadership #EMS #TheCoolFiremanPodcast

This week on The Cool Fireman Podcast, the crew sits down with Megan from Finergy Fuel Energy Drink to talk about building a firefighter family business, balancing marriage and kids while chasing big goals, and creating a healthier energy drink option for first responders and people constantly on the go.

Megan shares the real behind-the-scenes struggles of starting a business from scratch while raising two kids under two, supporting a firefighter husband, and trying to grow a brand without losing sight of what matters most.

The crew also dives into:
⚡ The truth about the energy drink industry
⚡ Why ingredients and formulation matter
⚡ Building a business while balancing family life
⚡ Social media struggles for small businesses
⚡ Supporting firefighter-owned companies
⚡ Long nights, stress, and staying grounded
⚡ Funny debates about pineapple pizza 🍍😂
⚡ The realities of entrepreneurship in the fire service community

This episode is packed with laughs, honest conversations, business insight, and motivation for anyone trying to build something meaningful while juggling real life.

🎙️ Featuring:
• Megan from Finergy Fuel
• Brian
• Unkie
• Matt

👇 Check out Finergy Fuel online and support firefighter-family-owned businesses!

#FirefighterPodcast #SmallBusiness #Entrepreneur #FirefighterLife #EnergyDrink #Firewife #FirstResponderLife #TheCoolFiremanPodcast

This week on The Cool Fireman Podcast, the crew sits down with Rescue 1 CBD founder and firefighter/paramedic Jon Vought to have a REAL conversation about firefighter sleep deprivation, inflammation, recovery, and the stigma surrounding C*D in the fire service.

Jon shares how a devastating foot surgery, long-term opioid use, and terrible sleep led him down the path of creating a firefighter-focused CD company specifically designed to help first responders WITHOUT risking failed drug tests. The crew dives deep into:
🔥 The difference between C*D and T*C
🔥 Why firefighters struggle with sleep
🔥 How cannabinoids affect circadian rhythm
🔥 Pain relief vs inflammation relief
🔥 Nicotine pouches, sleep health, and recovery
🔥 Drug testing myths in the fire service
🔥 Why Rescue 1 CBD became the first firefighter-tested C*D company studied by universities

The conversation gets nerdy, hilarious, and incredibly informative as the guys break down how poor sleep is impacting firefighters everywhere — and what we can actually do about it.

Plus, Jon survives the Turnout Drill with questions about chili beans, challenge coins, and helicopter flying. 😂

👨‍🚒 Guest: Jon Vought
🌐 Rescue1CBD.com
📲 Instagram: @rescue1cbd

As always, thank you for supporting The Cool Fireman Podcast.
Like, subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with your crew! 🔥🚒

#TheCoolFiremanPodcast #Firefighter #CBD #FireService #MentalHealth #SleepDeprivation #FirstResponder #FirefighterWellness #Recovery #Podcast #FirehouseCulture #EMS #Paramedic #HealthAndWellness #Brotherhood

In this powerful episode, the crew sits down with Australian former police officer, detective, wellness coach, and first responder advocate Erin Jane for an honest conversation about firefighter mental health, relationships, burnout, trauma, and resilience.

Erin shares her journey from law enforcement in Australia to becoming a first responder wellness coach in the United States after meeting her firefighter husband in Berlin. She opens up about losing her father to suicide, volunteering on crisis hotlines, and why she felt called to create a space where first responders can talk openly without judgment.

The crew dives deep into “cab therapy” and kitchen table conversations in the firehouse — why firefighters use dark humor to cope, why those conversations matter, and why sometimes they still aren’t enough. Matt talks about missing the firehouse camaraderie while recovering from a heart attack and how the laughs inside the engine cab can become part of the healing process.

Erin explains the importance of being intentional about wellness, from creating routines and exercising first thing in the morning to grounding yourself, decompressing after shift, and learning how to recognize stress before it spirals into burnout, divorce, addiction, or worse.

The conversation also explores:

• The physiological effects of trauma and sleep deprivation
• Why first responders struggle to ask for help
• Fear of stigma, losing careers, or appearing weak
• How communication impacts firefighter marriages
• Why resentment can destroy relationships
• The importance of self-awareness and emotional regulation
• The reality of chronic sleep deprivation in the fire service
• Healthy coping strategies vs. maladaptive behaviors

Doug asks Erin what firefighters and cops are best at hiding, and her answer hits hard: fear. The crew discusses how many first responders silently carry stress, trauma, and emotional exhaustion while pretending everything is fine.

The episode balances heavy topics with plenty of laughs, including Erin introducing the now legendary “Sodomy Scale” — a humorous communication system she and her firefighter husband use to explain how rough a shift was without needing to relive every detail.

The crew also talks about:
🔥 Firehouse culture
🔥 Relationships in the first responder world
🔥 Intentional wellness practices
🔥 Trauma awareness for new firefighters
🔥 The importance of recognizing warning signs early
🔥 Why asking for help is not weakness

Erin also shares details about:
🎧 The Thin Line Rock Station
🎙️ Her podcast I’ll Hold Space for Your Darkness
🚒 The upcoming 24-hour live fundraiser supporting first responder mental health initiatives and suicide prevention organizations.

As always, the episode wraps up with laughs, turnout drill questions, and classic Cool Fireman Podcast banter.

Follow Erin Jane:
📲 Instagram: @erinjanecoaching
🌐 erinjanecoaching.com
🎧 The Thin Line Rock Station

🔥 Roll it, GG.

In this episode of The Cool Fireman Podcast, the guys circle back on a topic that sparked a lot of conversation—the “family feel” of the firehouse.

After some feedback from listeners, they take a step back from the negativity and bring it back to what really matters: how the fire service shows up when one of its own is going through something tough.

From injuries and family emergencies to extended time away from work, this episode dives into the real ways firefighters support each other—both on and off the job.

🔥 In This Episode

Why the “firehouse family” isn’t gone—it’s what you make it

Real story: Supporting a crew member during a child’s medical emergencyMeal trains, check-ins, and the small things that make a big impactDepartment policies: sick leave, donated leave, and light duty assignmentsThe importance of accident insurance and financial preparedness

Why younger firefighters need to understand the benefits early

How different departments handle injuries (on-duty vs. off-duty)Maintaining firehouse culture despite phones, new stations, and changing times

💡 Key Takeaways

The firehouse culture may look different—but the brotherhood is still there

Support doesn’t have to be big—a text, visit, or meal goes a long way

Protect yourself: insurance, benefits, and planning matter more than you think

Culture is built intentionally—it doesn’t just happen anymore

When life hits hard, the fire service still shows up 👊

🧯 Housekeeping

New Patreon members welcomed (free + paid tiers)

🔥 May Patreon Perks Winner: William “Crummy” Crumpacker

Patreon continues to grow—thank you to everyone supporting the show

Plans in the works for live podcast recordings and audience interaction

🤝 Sponsors

• Unkie’s Seasoning
• The Burn Box – firefighter subscription gear

🕊️ Moment of Silence

A moment of silence is held for first responders lost this past week, with a reminder to properly honor those we may have missed in future episodes.

📬 Snail Mail

Listener engagement continues to grow across platforms

Feedback on firehouse culture debate

Conversations around generational differences in the fire service

FDIC shoutouts and community connections

💬 Final Thought

The firehouse family isn’t dead.

It just looks different now.

And at the end of the day…
it’s still about showing up for your people when they need it most.

👇 Question for You

👉 Have you seen your department step up for someone in a tough situation?

Drop your story—we’re reading them.

🚒 FDIC 2026 Special Episode

The guys are coming to you straight from Indianapolis for a special FDIC 2026 episode—recorded live after long days on the convention floor. This one is raw, unfiltered, and exactly what you’d expect when you put the crew together in the same house after a full week at the biggest fire service conference in the country.

🔥 What FDIC Is Really Like

In this episode, they break down what FDIC is really like and why it’s often called the “Super Bowl” of the fire service. From the moment you walk into the convention center, it’s nonstop energy—thousands of firefighters, vendors, classes, and departments from all over the world. The guys share their experience working the booth with Burn Box and the FD Collectors Club, including the chaos of selling gear, building custom boxes, running back and forth for inventory, and trying to keep up with the constant flow of people.

🤝 The Power of the Fire Service Community

They also talk about what makes events like this so important. It’s not just about the tools or the classes—it’s about the people. Meeting listeners face-to-face, connecting with subscribers, and building relationships with other firefighter-owned businesses was one of the biggest highlights of the week. From shaking hands with familiar names to meeting firefighters from across the country and even around the world, it reinforced what the fire service is all about: community.

💼 Behind the Booth & The Grind

The conversation dives into the reality of balancing firehouse life with running a business, especially at this level. There’s a lot of pressure, a lot of moving parts, and a lot of money on the line—but at the end of the day, it comes down to taking care of people and delivering something they believe in. The guys also share some behind-the-scenes stories from the booth, including giveaways, mystery prizes, and a few moments that perfectly sum up the controlled chaos of the week.

🕊️ Remembering 9/11

They take a moment to recognize the 25-year remembrance of 9/11, honoring all the lives lost that day and the continued impact it has had on the fire service. It’s a reminder of the deeper purpose behind everything they do and the brotherhood that connects them all.

🎁 Patreon & Support

There are also shoutouts to new Patreon members and a reminder that the next episode will feature the upcoming Patreon Perks drawing. If you’re not part of it yet, it’s a great way to support the show and get access to exclusive content and giveaways.

💬 Final Takeaway

At the end of the day, this episode reinforces one thing: FDIC isn’t just about gear or training—it’s about the people, the relationships, and pushing the fire service forward. If you’ve ever been, you already know. And if you haven’t, this gives you a front-row seat to what it’s all about.

👇 Join the Conversation

If you’re enjoying the podcast, make sure to follow, leave a review, and share it with your crew. And if you’ve been to FDIC before—what was your biggest takeaway?

We’re back with Part 2 of our True or False series, and this one gets real.

After the buzz from the last episode, the crew dives deeper into some of the most debated topics in the fire service today—safety, work ethic, culture, and the evolving mindset of the next generation.

From two-in/two-out and clean cab concepts… to rookie expectations, aggressive firefighting, and generational differences, this episode challenges the way we think about tradition vs. progress.

This isn’t about being right—it’s about having the conversation.

🔥 In This Episode

True or False: Have we gone too far with safety?

Breaking down the two-in/two-out debate and real-world application

Clean cab concept vs. response time—are we sacrificing too much?

Has aggressive firefighting been lost in the name of safety?

Do rookies today have it easier—or are expectations just different?

The reality of mentorship and leadership gaps in today’s firehouse

Is work ethic declining, or is the mindset just changing?

Why culture, trust, and accountability still matter more than ever

🧠 Key Takeaways

Fireground decisions are situational—not one-size-fits-all

Many safety practices are based on hindsight and evolving data

The firehouse culture is still strong—but leadership must reinforce it

The next generation isn’t “weaker”—they’re just wired differently

Trust is everything—and it’s built long before the tones drop

📬 Snail Mail Segment

Listener feedback continues to drive the conversation

Discussion on experience vs. certifications

Firehouse culture: “It’s what you make it.”

Shoutout to a listener recently accepted into the academy

🎉 Housekeeping

Welcome new Patreon members:

🔥 April Patreon Perks Winner: Ricky Byrd
(Catch the in-person delivery at FDIC!)

🧯 Turnout Drill Winner: Josh Bandy

📍 Upcoming

Come see us at FDIC (Booth #11006 near Fire Dept Coffee)

Giveaways, merch, and tons of behind-the-scenes content coming soon

🤝 Support the Show

🎧 Follow us on Spotify (helps more than you think!)

👕 Grab merch at thecoolfireman.com

🔥 Join Patreon for bonus content, giveaways, and more

💬 Question for You

True or False:
👉 Has the fire service changed for better… or worse?

Drop your thoughts—we’re reading them.

🚨 Final Thought

At the end of the day…

Culture builds trust. Trust builds performance. And performance saves lives.

📝 Episode Description

In this episode of The Cool Fireman Podcast, the crew dives into a fun but real conversation:

👉 Old School vs New School Fire Service – TRUE or FALSE?

From firehouse culture to leadership, training, and generational differences, the guys break down some of the biggest debates in today’s fire service.

🔥 Topics We Cover:Is the firehouse still a “family”?

Are kitchen table conversations changing?

Are newer firefighters more sensitive—or just different?

Experience vs certifications… which matters more?

Are firefighters today more trained and educated?

Leadership in the modern fire service

Policy vs people—what matters most?

🚨 Also in This Episode:FDIC is right around the cornerPatreon shoutouts + Ricky Byrd wins April Perks 🎉

Turnout Drill selection

Firehouse culture debates (food, chores, expectations)

Shoutout to off-duty heroism in the fire service

🎯 Join the Conversation

We want to hear from YOU:
👉 Drop your answers—TRUE or FALSE?

Head over to:

YouTube

Spotify comments

Instagram

🔥 Support the Podcast🎧 Follow & rate the show💬 Share with your crew🔥 Join Patreon for behind-the-scenes content (only $2/month)

🚒 About The Show

The Cool Fireman Podcast brings real conversations from the firehouse table—covering leadership, culture, training, and everything in between.

🔑 Keywords (for discoverability)

firefighter podcast, fire service culture, firefighter leadership, FDIC, firehouse life, firefighter training, fire department podcast, EMS, firehouse discussions, first responder podcast

This episode of The Cool Fireman Podcast dives into the unwritten rules that make firehouse culture what it is. Matt, Doug, and Adam break down the firehouse laws nobody writes down but everybody learns fast—from food in the fridge, seats at the kitchen table, and bunk room etiquette to rookie expectations, shift change courtesy, and the sacred rule of not farting at the dinner table.

In This Episode

The guys mix humor with real firehouse truth as they talk about why these traditions matter, how they shape culture, and what every rookie needs to know if they want to survive probation. Plus, there’s Patreon talk, a Wheel of Names winner, sponsor updates, Burn Box gear, FDIC hype, and a little snail mail.

• The guys open with stickers, Burn Box talk, and Doug’s legendary footlong chili dog

• Patreon updates, new members, and the monthly Wheel of Names drawing

• Turnout Drill winner DJ Watson’s answers on snacks, aliens, and sunsets

• Sponsor shoutouts for Unkie’s Seasoning and Burn Box

• A moment of silence for fallen first responders

• The main topic: the unwritten rules of the firehouse

• Firehouse food etiquette, fridge politics, and shift-change snack theft

• The sacred rules of the kitchen table and “unassigned assigned seating”

• Bunk room courtesy, bathroom etiquette, and showing up early for shift change

• Rookie life: why none of the normal rules apply when you’re the new guy

• Snail Mail reactions from last week’s episode about becoming a firefighter and the volunteer fire service debate

  
  

  Key Talking Points

Patreon and Wheel of Names

The crew welcomes new Patreon members and spins the Wheel of Names for the monthly giveaway. Ricky Bird takes the win for April, continuing his streak as a big name in the podcast community.

Turnout Drill Answers

DJ Watson’s responses spark conversation about guilty pleasure snacks, aliens, and whether sunrise or sunset is better. Naturally, that turns into a bigger firehouse-style debate.

Burn Box and FDIC

Doug shows off the latest Burn Box, which includes:

• Burn Box Skeleton Key t-shirt

• metal wedge

• door jam

• updated Williams key for respectful entry

Unwritten Rules of the Firehouse

This is the heart of the episode. Topics include:

• Don’t sit down just anywhere at the kitchen table

• Seats may not be assigned, but they are definitely claimed

• If you cook, do you clean, or does the crew handle dishes?

• If food has no name on it, it might be fair game

• Treats brought for another shift may not survive until shift change

• Don’t leave old food in Tupperware forever

• Don’t use the last toilet paper without replacing the roll

• Don’t destroy the bathroom right before shift change

• Show up early so the off-going crew doesn’t get stuck on a late call

• Don’t leave your gear laying around unless you want it messed with

• And above all: when you’re the rookie, you do everything

The crew talks about humility, owning mistakes, earning trust, and embracing the rite of passage that comes with being the new guy.

Snail Mail

The episode wraps with comments from listeners responding to last week’s discussion on becoming a firefighter and the ongoing debate around volunteer fire service, cost, staffing, and recruitment.

Best Moments

• Doug describing a footlong chili dog disappearing in record time

• The debate over whether cookies meant for another shift are actually safe

• Matt admitting he’s been banned from the kitchen table for farting

• “We don’t have assigned seats… but you definitely can’t sit there.”

• “Them cookies ain’t gonna make it to shift change.”

• Matt’s closing thoughts on being the rookie and doing everything

  
  

  Sponsors

• Unkie’s Seasoning

• Burn Box

Call to Action

What unwritten rule did the guys miss?
Drop your firehouse’s favorite unwritten law in the comments.

SEO Keywords

The Cool Fireman Podcast, unwritten firehouse rules, firehouse culture, rookie firefighter advice, kitchen table rules, firefighter podcast, probationary firefighter, firehouse traditions, firefighter humor, FDIC

In this episode, the guys circle back to one of their most popular topics: how to become a firefighter. Matt, Brian, and Unkie talk through what it really takes to get hired, survive the process, and build a successful career in the fire service.

The conversation covers everything from attitude, humility, and work ethic to the value of mentors, accountability, and staying teachable. The crew shares personal stories about the grind of trying to get hired, the sacrifices it took, and the moments they knew this was the career they were meant to pursue.

They also discuss the importance of being someone others want to invest in — because in this job, your attitude can open doors just as much as your résumé.

The episode also includes Patreon updates, a new Wheel of Names winner for the Turnout Drill, sponsor shoutouts, a Moment of Silence for recent line-of-duty deaths, and some discussion on volunteer staffing, training, and the future of the fire service.

In this episode:

• What it really takes to become a firefighter

• Why attitude matters as much as skill

• The importance of mentors and accountability

• Why humility and work ethic go a long way

• Personal stories from the hiring grind

• Recent LODDs honored in the Moment of Silence

• Turnout Drill winner: Daniel Watson

• FDIC excitement, merch, and sponsor updates

Support the podcast:

👕 Merch: https://the-cool-fireman.myshopify.com/collections
🎧 Patreon: Join the crew for bonus content, giveaways, and more

In this episode, Matt and Doug jump on the mic for a two-man show as they talk through the chaos of spring schedules, sick days, family life, and getting an episode recorded when everyone’s calendars refuse to line up. From a rough morning at the dentist with Matt’s daughter to Doug battling sinus misery, the guys ease into a real and relatable conversation before diving into the main topic: FDIC and why conferences matter in the fire service.

They share their excitement for the upcoming FDIC conference in Indianapolis, where the podcast team will be partnering with The Burn Box and spending the week surrounded by firefighters, training, new technology, and networking opportunities. Doug gives a preview of what FDIC is like for first-timers, from the massive exhibitor floor to Firefighter Row and the sheer scale of the event. Matt and Doug also discuss why sending firefighters to conferences is such a valuable investment for departments of all sizes, especially when it comes to inspiration, training, networking, and bringing fresh ideas back home.

The episode also includes updates on Patreon, merch, sponsors, and a heartfelt moment of silence requested by a listener for a teacher who recently passed away. They wrap things up with some listener engagement, including reactions to their recent episode on Social Security, unions, and associations, plus a reminder that the podcast is closing in on 1,000 Spotify followers.

In This Episode:

• Doug battles a brutal cold/sinus issue while Matt shares a wild dentist visit with his daughter

• Why it can be so hard to coordinate podcast recordings with a busy crew

• St. Patrick’s Day talk, corned beef tacos, and keeping things light

• Patreon updates, giveaway winners, and plans for future prizes

• Merch update and where to grab Cool Fireman gear

• Sponsor shoutouts for Unkie’s Seasoning and The Burn Box

• Preview of FDIC 2026 and what attendees can expect

• Why conferences are worth the investment for fire departments

• The importance of networking, hands-on training, and seeing new fire service technology

• Thoughts on leadership, inspiration, and getting firefighters excited about the job again

• Listener-requested moment of silence for Leanne Colley

• Snail Mail and social media feedback from recent episodes

• Discussion on Social Security, pensions, and the recent listener response to that topic

• Closing encouragement to support the show through follows, engagement, merch, Patreon, and sponsors

Key Takeaways

This episode reinforces a message the guys keep coming back to: if you want better culture, better morale, and better performance in the fire service, you have to invest in your people. Conferences like FDIC are more than just a trip—they’re an opportunity to build passion, sharpen skills, create new connections, and bring real value back to the department.

Mentioned in This Episode

• FDIC International

• The Burn Box

• Unkie’s Seasoning

• Patreon giveaways

• Cool Fireman merch

• Social Security Fairness discussion

• Leanne Colley

• Ricky Bird

• Megan Louts / The Salty Paramedic

Support the Podcast:

Visit our Website: thecoolfireman.com

Visit Patreon: https://patreon.com/TheCoolFiremanPodcast?utm_medium=unknown&utm_source=join_link&utm_campaign=creatorshare_creator&utm_content=copyLink

Follow and subscribe to The Cool Fireman Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. Support the show through Patreon, grab some merch at thecoolfireman.com, and keep engaging with the crew on social media.

In this episode of The Cool Fireman Podcast, the crew talks all things collective bargaining, firefighter unions, and what union representation really means for the fire service.

They break down the basics of unions, executive boards, local representation, and why being involved matters. The conversation covers retirement, safety, wages, staffing, equipment, cancer presumption, 24-hour shifts, and contract negotiations — along with a reminder that many of the things firefighters enjoy today were fought for through union work.

The guys also talk about voting for your job, staying active in your local, attending meetings, and understanding what your dues are actually supporting behind the scenes.

The episode also includes Patreon updates, the next Wheel of Names turnout drill winner, sponsor shoutouts, a Moment of Silence, and listener comments from the burnout episode.

In this episode:

• What collective bargaining means in the fire service

• Why firefighter unions matter

• Retirement, safety, wages, and representation

• How union boards and local leadership work

• Contract negotiations and staying competitive

• Why firefighters should vote for their job

• Patreon updates and Ricky Bird wins the turnout drill

Support the podcast:

👕 Merch: CLICK HERE FOR MERCH
🎧 Patreon: Join the crew and get in on monthly Patreon Perks

CLICK HERE FOR PATREON

In this episode of The Cool Fireman Podcast, the crew kicks things off with some big Patreon news: the Engineer Tier officially hit 10 subscribers, which means Phase 1 is live and the first Wheel of Names giveaway is underway. Congrats to Simon Gray, who takes home the first box of firefighter goodies.

The guys also share a heartfelt Moment of Silence honoring firefighters recently lost, including Lt. Robert “Dean” Clary, who passed away from occupational cancer, along with other recent line-of-duty losses. It’s a powerful reminder of the risks firefighters face both on and off the fireground.

The main topic centers around burnout — what it looks like, how it builds, and how firefighters can recognize it before it takes a bigger toll. The conversation touches on stress at work, life at home, mental exhaustion, faith, family, and the importance of having healthy outlets and strong people in your corner.

The episode wraps with snail mail, listener feedback, and more discussion around training, priorities, and the reality of balancing fire service life.

In this episode:

• Patreon giveaway officially begins

• Simon Gray wins the first Wheel of Names box

• Moment of Silence for recent firefighter losses

• Burnout in the fire service

• Stress, mental fatigue, and healthy coping outlets

• Listener comments and training discussion

Support the podcast:

🎧 Patreon: Engineer Tier starts at just $2/month

• 
  
  
• 👕 Merch: https://the-cool-fireman.myshopify.com/collections

The crew debates a firehouse classic: If most of our calls are EMS, should most of our training be EMS? With departments running 80%+ medical calls in many areas, is it time to shift focus—or double down on fire because it’s high-risk and low-frequency?

• EMS isn’t going anywhere.
  Call volume continues trending heavily medical. Fires are decreasing due to prevention, codes, and education.

• Train for high-acuity on both sides.
  Even if you run EMS daily, you still need reps on cardiac arrests, strokes, trauma, airway management, and rare presentations. Same logic as training for low-frequency, high-risk fire incidents.

• Service is service.
  Whether it’s a working structure fire or grandma on the floor, we’re there to solve problems. The public expects professionalism no matter the call type.

• Jack of all trades? Good.
  The fire service is an all-hazards profession. Being competent across fire, EMS, rescue, and prevention is the job.

• For new firefighters:
  You’re signing up for both. You’ll pull hose and you’ll run 12-leads. Train hard at both.

• New Engineer Tier Patreon members: Simon Gray & Ty Rowan

• Turnout Drill Wheel Winner: Simon Gray

• Merch shoutout + FDIC Burn Box teaser

• Road to 1,000 Spotify followers

Bottom line:
EMS vs. fire isn’t either/or. It’s both. Train accordingly.

In this episode, the crew sits down with K-Bill from Social FD to talk about the reality of social media in today’s fire service—especially how it impacts volunteer recruitment, retention, and community trust. From “Facebook warriors” and negativity in comment sections, to meeting the next generation where they are (yes… even Twitch), this one hits culture, standards, and how we can do better without tearing each other down publicly.

• Why Social FD exists and the problem it’s trying to solve for volunteer departments

• How social media can build trust → support → recruitment

• The uncomfortable truth: everyone’s an “overnight expert” online (and it’s hurting the fire service)

• Why departments shouldn’t ban everyday station content—the next generation lives online

• A real talk discussion on standards vs. public shaming (beards/NFPA/social media pile-ons)

• How to correct mistakes the right way: educate internally, don’t embarrass externally

• The crew rips Legacy Fire Cards live and talks using them to engage rookies and kids

• Snail Mail highlights + community shoutouts, including powerful mental health feedback

• The Burn Box (housekeeping segment shoutout)

• Unkie Seasonings (plus a fun giveaway tease tied to brisket tags)

  
  

• “Trust builds support, and support builds recruitment.” — K-Bill

• “A simple post can save a life.” — K-Bill

• “We’re tearing the fire service down with these arguments publicly.” — K-Bill

• “Educate first, then advocate.” — Brian

• “We’re the custodians of the fire service.” — Freddy

• “It’s not what you say—it’s how you say it.” — Brian

Social FD is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit helping volunteer fire departments with:

• Online engagement support

• Free website hosting tools

• Social media scheduling/posting help

• Guidance on using content to build community trust and recruitment

Find K-Bill / Social FD:

• socialfd.org/links (all platforms + resources)

Also mentioned:

• Thinline Rock Station (online radio for first responders)

• Saturday nights (5–7pm CST) you can catch K-Bill featured on-air

• Honor Guard uniform opinions (ascot + blouse belt hate = strong consensus 😂)

• Listener shares first Honor Guard detail experience and learning etiquette fast

• Powerful mental health responses: encouragement to normalize getting help early

• Patreon and merch mentions sprinkled throughout (plus “Sorry, Rhett” moments)

If this episode hits home, share it with:

• A volunteer department that needs community support

• A chief/admin team debating social media policies

• A new firefighter who needs encouragement and culture done right

And as always: be kind, build people up, and keep the tradition strong—without becoming the comment-section NFPA police.

What You’ll Hear in This EpisodeSponsors / Housekeeping MentionsKey Moments (Approx. Timestamps)Quotes Worth PullingGuest Info: K-Bill (Social FD)Community / Snail Mail HighlightsCall to Action

The crew kicks things off in classic “kitchen table” fashion (yes… with an unfortunate shart confession) before shifting into a respectful, meaningful conversation about Honor Guard in the fire service—why it matters, what professionalism looks like, and how departments can build/strengthen their own teams. Along the way: sponsor shoutouts, a moment of silence for two fallen firefighters, and a trick-question flag trivia that gets Matt good.

In This Episode

Cold Open: The “Literal Sh*t Show

• Unkie admits to a wet fart situation (aka: shart), sparking a round of “we’ve all been there” stories.

• Brian loses his appetite mid-conversation.

• Doug officially welcomes everyone to the literal “shit show” that is the podcast.

  
  

  ”Housekeeping & Updates

  
  

  Patreon Shoutouts

• New Patreon members welcomed:

  • Ricky Bird

  • Big Bob Penrod (Doug’s new nickname for him)

  • B. Stapleton (the crew debates what the “B” stands for—Brandon? Bradley? Bryce? Broseph? Bart?)

    
    

    Merch Update

• Merch is moving: shirts, hoodies, hats, and now embroidered hats are rolling out.

• Big thanks to everyone who’s ordered.

  
  

  Sponsor Shoutouts

• Unkie’s Seasonings

  • Unkie will be at Virginia Fire & Expo in Virginia Beach (Feb 19–21)

  • Hanging around heavy hitters like Taylor’s Tins, National Fire Radio, and more.

• Burn Box

  • The crew highlights recent box items (hoodie, stickers, mask bag).

  • “If you’re on the fence, jump off and get one.”

    
    

    Potential New Sponsor Idea

• The crew makes a strong case for Dude Wipes becoming a sponsor… for obvious reasons.

  
  

  Moment of Silence

The team honors two recent losses in the fire service:

• Firefighter Michael Mejia (National City FD) — passed from complications of a severe illness.

• Firefighter Howard Bennett (60) — fell into the icy Delaware River while inspecting a fireboat at Wiggins Park Marina.

  
  

  Main Topic: Honor Guard in the Fire Service

• The crew emphasizes Honor Guard as a prestigious, humbling, high-respect role.

• Doug shares that Honor Guard may be the most important work he does in his career.

Doug lays down a core philosophy:

• Honor Guard should be professional, tactful, and executed quietly.

• Cadence screaming or making it “about you” defeats the point.

• Unkie shares frustration with “Marine Corps cadence” style pageantry in civilian settings.

• Doug’s pet peeve: ascots (“Victorian era nonsense” 😂)

Matt shares a probationary-day moment:

• At a Memorial Day ceremony, he placed a wreath… and saluted his Captain instead of the flag.

• Crew compares Matt to “Officer Doofy.”

Unkie hits the crew with trivia:

• Trick question: What degree does the American flag angle during Present Arms?

  • Answer: It doesn’t. The U.S. flag does not bow—only other flags do.

  • Brian nails it. Matt gets smoked.

• Bonus trivia:

  • Texas is the only state flag that can be displayed at the same height as the U.S. flag (as explained in the episode).

• Ricky Bird praises the importance of recent mental health episodes.

• Kenny Mitchell encourages using the episode for roundtable training and discussion.

• Doug shouts out Chelsea from “Hold the Line at Home” for sharing mental health content.

• A listener shares they were admitted to a psych facility after letting things build up—crew praises the honesty and reinforces:

  • “It’s okay to not be okay. It’s not okay to stay not okay.”

• “Welcome to the literal shit show…” — Doug

• “You shouldn’t be heard.” — Doug on Honor Guard professionalism

• “Ditch your bricks.” — Doug (throwback phrase that may become merch)

• How does YOUR department run Honor Guard?
  Drop it in the comments—structure, training, uniforms, pay/OT, recruiting, etc.

• What’s the worst (or weirdest) Honor Guard/Class A uniform detail you’ve seen?
  Keep it respectful… but let’s hear it.

Summary

In this episode, the guys welcome back Greg Rudiger (Resilient Another Day / The Radcast) for a real, needed conversation about mental health in the fire service—and why we must start talking to recruits and new members early, not just after 15–20 years of calls, stress, and life piling up. The crew covers how peer support, resiliency tools, spirituality, and the “power of the pause” can help firefighters stay in the fight—at work, at home, and into retirement.

• Greg returns (first appeared on Episode 75) for Episode 145.

• Matt sets the tone: firefighters are killing themselves—and we need to stop acting like it’s not real.

• The crew agrees this topic should be in fire academies nationwide, not treated as an afterthought.

Patreon update

• Patreon is growing fast: 12 members (with a recent surge of new sign-ups).

• The team discusses possible perks like watching the podcast live during recording via Riverside.

New subscribers shout-outs

• Tyler Carson (free member)

• Tyler Adams

• Jesus & Sophia

• Social FD (paid supporter)

Merch

• New flagship merch drop: shirts/hoodies/hats/long sleeves + specialty designs.

• Discount code mentioned: “Episode144” for 15% off (limited time).

Sponsors

• Unkie’s Seasonings

• Burn Box / FD Collectors Club

• Plus love for Blue Collar Firemen

Greg breaks down the shift toward a proactive approach:

• If firefighter survival training is 75% prevention, why isn’t mental health training the same?

• They’re teaching recruits common language + tools before they ever hit the street:

  • Stress continuum (blue/green/yellow/orange/red)

  • Breath work / mindfulness

  • Work-life balance, sleep, nutrition, exercise

  • Peer support resources and apps

• The goal: normalize “Cap, I’m not okay” and make it safe to say.

Brian brings up the tension:

• Some firefighters reject the mental health conversation as “victim mindset.”

• Greg responds: it’s not about weakness—it’s about leading with love, listening, and meeting the human.

• Also discussed: the “weaponization” concern—people claiming mental health issues to avoid accountability—without dismissing anyone who truly needs help.

Greg’s point hits hard:

• You don’t carry one tool on the rig—you carry a toolbox.

• Same for wellness: breath work might work today, but tomorrow it might be running, faith, calling a buddy, stretching, ocean time, etc.

• The theme: sometimes you have to sit in the uncomfortable long enough to move through it.

• The crew emphasizes not being afraid of silence—on the mic and in real life.

• The pause helps you:

  • respond instead of react

  • recognize what you’re feeling

Brian shares scripture and the Footprints poem to underline the spiritual dimension:

• Faith isn’t “religion as performance”—it’s spiritual grounding and support.

• Greg ties it into wellness: the spiritual pillar is often the missing piece.

• Shared theme: we’re not meant to carry it alone.

Freddy raises a huge point:

• Retirement can be dangerous for mental health—loss of structure, identity shift, isolation.
  Greg explains what they’re doing:

• retiree peer support groups

• intentional check-ins (personal phone/email, not “department HR”)

• spouse inclusion

• monthly breakfasts and continued connection

• Matt addresses a correction from a listener regarding PAH exposure discussion from Episode 144:

  • Clarifies the study measured urinary metabolites, not dermal skin measurements.

  • Reinforces the key takeaway: SCBA use (even for engineers in the hot/warm zone) reduces exposure.

• Comment: How are you “par checking” your people?

• What tools are you using—peer support, faith, exercise, breath work, counseling, retirement groups?

• If you’re struggling: reach out to someone (your crew, peer support, or the podcast team).

• Merch: https://the-cool-fireman.myshopify.com/collections

• Greg / RAD: resilientanotherday.com

• Social: @stay.rad10 (IG/TikTok)

Greg Rudiger

• Founder: Resilient Another Day (RAD)

• Co-host: The Radcast

• Offers: resiliency training + help building peer support frameworks (“can’t be a prophet in your own town” support)

Special Guest: Scott Jennie | Firefighter Cancer Support Network

In this powerful and timely episode, the crew sits down with retired Captain Scott Jennie, National Training Program Manager and California State Director for the Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN). This conversation dives deep into the realities of occupational cancer in the fire service, the cultural shifts needed to protect firefighters, and the life-saving resources available when the unthinkable happens.

🔥 Episode Highlights

• Scott’s transition from the fire floor to national cancer advocacy

• Why firefighter cancer rates continue to rise nationwide

• Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month and the importance of annual safety stand-downs

• The myth of “it’s just part of the job” — and why it doesn’t have to be

• The critical role of peer-to-peer (badge-to-badge) support during a cancer diagnosis

• How Firefighter Cancer Support Network helps firefighters and their families, free of charge

• What to do immediately after receiving a cancer diagnosis

• Navigating workers’ comp, presumptive laws, and self-advocacy

• Why overhaul is one of the most dangerous exposure periods

• “If you smell smoke, you smell cancer” — fighting fire aggressively and smart

• Culture change: accountability at every rank, from probie to chief

• Why engineers often experience the highest PAH exposure levels

• Small daily habits that significantly reduce cancer risk

• Early detection, screenings, and why education saves lives

  
  

  🧠 Key Takeaways

• No firefighter should ever fight cancer alone

• Occupational cancer is preventable with awareness, behavior change, and accountability

• Clean gear, clean air, clean cab — every call, every time

• Leadership is not rank-dependent; anyone can speak up and make a difference

• Firefighters must prioritize long-term health to enjoy retirement with family

🎗️ About Firefighter Cancer Support Network

Firefighter Cancer Support Network is a nationwide nonprofit providing:

• Peer-to-peer mentorship

• Cancer toolkits and survivor guides

• Education and training

• Navigation support for diagnosis, treatment, and recovery

• Resources for firefighters, EMS professionals, and immediate family members

All services are free of charge.

👉 If you or someone you know needs help:
🌐 https://www.firefightercancersupport.org/
📞 Assistance available via website or hotline
🧑‍🚒 Volunteer mentors and state directors available nationwide

🛒 Support the Podcast

Check out our latest merch and help support the show:
👉 https://the-cool-fireman.myshopify.com/collections

🤝 What’s Next

The Cool Fireman Podcast will be planning a future Fill the Boot–style fundraiser to directly support the Firefighter Cancer Support Network. Stay tuned for details.

As always — thank you for listening, supporting, and being part of this community.

🎙️ Roll it, Gigi.

The Cool Fireman Podcast | Featuring Matt, Brian, Doug Bishop, and Unkie (Adam)

Episode summary

Episode 143 starts with classic pre-show chaos (tech issues + “Instagram crushing”), then pivots into a real-deal conversation about upstaffing—why it matters, how it’s triggered, what it looks like across the country (snow/ice, hurricanes, wildfires), and the hardest part of emergency operations: deciding when you can’t respond. The crew also hits sponsor updates, a powerful moment of silence request, and finishes strong with Snail Mail—highlighting promotion motivations and a listener question about leading with love from the back seat.

NEW MERCHANDISE STORE:

https://the-cool-fireman.myshopify.com/collections/all

14:40 – Moment of silence (LODD / cancer-related death)
A listener email from Tyler Adams requests recognition of David Hendricks, Crescent VFD (Crescent, Texas), who died from job-related cancer (email dated Jan 15). The crew honors him with a moment of silence and discusses the continuing impact of occupational exposure and long-term health effects.

Main discussion: Upstaffing (what it is + why it matters)

20:20 – What triggers upstaffing?
Doug breaks down winter storm operations: snow/ice projections, above-ground power lines, down trees, stuck units, and how departments decide to add resources.

Storm readiness checklist & resources

• 72/48/24-hour storm checklists

• “Storm boxes” / totes with required items

• Instant chains, Z-cables, heavy chains (deep-snow thresholds, speed limitations)

• Brush trucks + MSU/ambulance support + occasional snow plow attachments

• Parks/forestry departments helping with non-powerline tree calls

28:40 – Hurricane realities & hard decisions
Brian shares hurricane lessons learned: evacuations, resource shortages, and what happens when response becomes physically impossible. The crew talks about the public expectation of “they’ll come” vs the operational reality of risk assessments and responder safety.

34:10 – The hardest call
Brian and Doug hit the human element:

deciding to stop dispatching during severe conditions is one of the most mentally draining decisions in a career.

38:00 – Mandatory vs volunteer upstaffing
Doug explains how their staffing system pushes out texts/emails and how, if needed, upstaffing becomes mandatory—especially when conditions demand it.

41:10 – EOC + finance side (FEMA reimbursement)
Brian outlines how disaster declarations and documentation flow through local/state/federal layers and why accurate documentation is essential for:

• overtime reimbursement

• resource requests

• budget survival after repeated disasters
  He also notes current conversations around FEMA process changes due to bureaucratic delays.

49:20 – West Coast comparison: wildfire “upstaffing” via pre-positioning
Matt explains how CA handles wildfire readiness: red flag pre-positioning, North Ops/South Ops strike team staging, OES resources, and “Ready, Set, Go” evacuation messaging.

50:50 – Post-incident notes (critical takeaway)
Brian recommends crews capture notes after each operational period to support post-incident critique and justify future staffing/tools.

Snail Mail (listener highlights)

Zach’s take on promotions
Stay at the level you’re passionate about. Promotion for title/pay increases risk when leadership lacks heart and preparation.

Colt’s question: “How do you lead with love riding backwards?”
Matt shares Pastor Joby Martin’s definition:

Love is my joy in the Lord expressed toward others at great expense to myself.

Calls to action

• Join Patreon: Rookie ($1) / Engineer ($2) for extra content + Turnout Drill opportunities

• Submit a Moment of Silence request: email coolfireman @ gmail.com

• Snail Mail: drop comments/questions on Spotify—your message may be featured

• Stay engaged: support legislative efforts affecting firefighter safety, cancer research, and operational risk

The crew comes in hot (volume, chaos, and immediate regret from anyone driving to work) and rolls straight into classic Cool Fireman banter—plus an update on Doug being on a kid-free Disney cruise doing “arts and crafts” (which may or may not be locked behind the Engineer Tier paywall 😂). From there, the guys hit housekeeping: Patreon, merch, sponsors, and giveaways, then pivot into the main conversation—promotions in the fire service.

They break down the real reasons people promote (and the wrong ones), why leadership exists at every rank, and how transparency and trust from chiefs/officers can shape culture and reduce frustration. The episode closes with a strong call to action about the one character trait you value most in an officer, a Snail Mail segment featuring standout listener comments, a moment of silence, and the best outro in the business… Roll Gigi 🎤⬇️

Highlights & Key Moments

Cold Open Chaos (aka “Not on Mars!”)

• Immediate high-volume intro and rapid fire jokes.

• Doug update: Disney cruise with no kids, plus the legend of Doug’s “arts and crafts.”

  
  

  Housekeeping

• Patreon shout: Engineer Tier teased for behind-the-scenes content (including Doug cruise content).

• Giveaways teased (Engineer Tier perks + fire service goodies).

• Merch reminder: Still live through Notorious Fire (and somehow still too exclusive for the hosts to own).

  
  

  Sponsors

• The Burn Box (monthly gear + training aids + a recipe feature)

• Unkie Seasoning (Elizabeth Salt / Chipotle love, and shoutouts to supporters)

Main Topic — Promotions & Leadership in the Fire Service

Core question:
Should you keep climbing the ladder… or is it totally fine to stay a firefighter (or stay where you are)?

Big Takeaways

• Promoting for title or pay alone = bad foundation.
  Unkie’s take: the best reason to promote is to lead.

• Leadership ≠ rank.
  Brian’s point: there are “leaders” everywhere, but “leadership” is different—and can be positive or negative depending on intent and character.

• Don’t promote the best “widget maker” just because they’re good at the job.
  Sometimes the best move is to keep great firefighters right where they are for effectiveness and culture.

• Readiness matters.
  Freddy pushes back on “I’m up next because seniority” promotions—if you haven’t put in the work, it can be dangerous.

• Transparency builds trust.
  Brian’s argument: chiefs and officers can reduce frustration by explaining the “why” behind decisions—budget, legal requirements, policy changes, and more.

• But… some chiefs can’t take feedback.
  Freddy points out a real flaw: if leadership takes feedback personally, “open dialogue” becomes punishment and resentment.

  
  

  Culture Note

• Respect the rank, but trust is earned—Matt’s view: you can respect position without automatically trusting the person.

Call to Action

In the comments:
Drop ONE word that describes the character trait you value most in an officer.
Examples: Trust. Transparency. Humility. Consistency. Accountability. Communication.

Snail Mail Highlights

• Zach is back with another heater:

  • No social media

  • Functional strength + longevity

  • Daily journaling + Bible/prayer with his wife

  • Being slow to speak and intentional with words

• Steven Weber confirms pronunciation (short “e” like “grill”) and shares his lifestyle goal: cut soda/sweets + get back to early gym mornings.

• Courtney focuses on: more water, journaling, building muscle, and finding a therapist.

• Continued love for the What3Words discussion and “word of the year” accountability.

Moment of Silence

The crew closes with a moment of silence for the brothers and sisters lost over the last week.

Outro Celebrity Moment

Gigi joins at the end (dance life + birthday shoutout), then delivers the iconic closer with a mic drop energy:
“ROLL GIGI!” 🎤⬇️

The guys kick things off with some classic pre-show chaos (storms, Starlink, “Wicked” talk, hay and horses) before shifting into a real conversation about health and fitness in the fire service. Freddy frames it as a “new year” topic—less about resolutions and more about lifestyle consistency—and Matt shares his on-duty heart attack story as a reminder that being “in shape” doesn’t automatically equal being protected. They dig into nutrition habits, added sugar, energy drinks, sleep, accountability apps, and the idea that the goal isn’t a number on the scale—it’s being capable on the worst call of your career.

Key Topics & Moments

Weather, Starlink, and Farm Life

• Wind gusts, Starlink shifting in the yard, and the dream of stable internet for streaming youth sports.

• Doug’s day includes hay pickup and a farrier visit (hoof care)—Matt learns a new word.

  
  

  Quick Shoutout

• Happy Birthday to “GG” (the outro celebrity) — the crew encourages listeners to comment birthday wishes.

  
  

  Patreon Updates

• The crew thanks new and ongoing Patreon supporters and starts a “virtual turnout drill” segment:

  • Subscriber spotlight questions like sunrise vs sunset, favorite sandwich, and bucket list.

• Merch store is still live, with the tease that Patreon members may get exclusive items.

  
  

  Sponsors

• Unkie’s Seasoning

• Tom / The Burnbox (including mention of their latest box and the “calendar”)

Main Topic — Fitness, Diet, and Being Ready

Freddy sets the tone: our job isn’t compatible with “fitness rollercoasters.” Staying ready matters because you never know which run will test you.

Matt’s On-Duty Heart Attack (Oct 18, 2022)

• Matt shares he had a heart attack on duty with no warning signs, despite being active and in good shape.

• He believes his fitness level helped him survive and recover.

• He talks about how it changed his mindset around diet, sugar, lifestyle, and annual health checkups.

• He mentions deeper cholesterol metrics like ApoB and Lp(a) and encourages listeners to talk with their cardiologist—especially with family history.

  
  

  The “Skinny but Unhealthy” Trap

• Matt describes being the “fattest skinny guy you ever met” (lots of sugar, sweets, and junk).

• Discussion of insulin resistance as something worth learning about and paying attention to.

  
  

  Freddy’s Reset: Sleep, Energy Drinks, Added Sugar

• Freddy shares his own weight swings and what derailed him: school schedules, stress, poor sleep, energy drinks.

• He’s rebuilding with:

  • 30 minutes of daily movement

  • Zone 2 cardio

  • Cutting energy drinks and soda

  • Reducing added sugars

  • Using protein powder in coffee as a “mocha” hack

  • Daily pushups + squats challenge (and the struggle of wanting instant results)

    
    

    Doug’s Take: Whole Foods > Processed Foods

• Doug leans into the “back to basics” approach:

  • More whole foods, fewer lab-made processed foods

  • Water over soda

  • Black coffee and cutting sugar where possible

• He gives a nod to Megan at RescueRD as a resource for nutrition guidance (and suggests having her back on).

  Apps & Tools Mentioned

• Bevel (Freddy): fitness tracking, calories/macros, accountability

• MyFitnessPal (Freddy): previous tracker

• Yuka (Matt): barcode scanner that rates foods and highlights additives/ingredients

• Encouragement to take advantage of wellness programs: labs, ECG, treadmill, etc.

  
  

  Snail Mail Highlights

• Listener Zach shares his 2026 word(s): Seek and Trust (faith, academy prep, baby #3, trusting the process).

• Colt shares appreciation for the ICS conversation and downloads What3Words after the episode.

  
  

  Quotes to Pull for Clips

• “This job isn’t compatible with rollercoasters. You’ve gotta stay ready.”

• “Make it a lifestyle. If you stop, you feel off.”

• “I was the fattest skinny guy you ever met.”

• “If you’ve got family history—get a cardiologist. Once a year.”

• “You were treating the monitor, not the patient.”

Call to Action

What lifestyle change are you making in 2026?
Not a “resolution”—a real, achievable shift that makes you better for your department, your family, and yourself.

Drop yours in the comments.

In This Episode

End-of-year check-in, burnout vs bandwidth, and a listener-requested deep dive on ICS — plus a What3Words tangent (because of course) and a big 2026 announcement from Brian.

The crew rolls into the final stretch of 2025 running on fumes: Brian’s voice is cooked, Adam’s been sick for weeks, Doug is… at the emergency vet because a dog ate a sock (classic). The guys talk holiday reality, emotional bandwidth, and how hard it is to truly “shut off” work.

Then a listener (Jeff) hits them with a solid request: let’s talk ICS — from small incidents to big ones, staffing, comms, unified command, and why the chain-of-command matters even when it feels inconvenient.

Matt ties it into his own real-world lesson: don’t bypass your assignment / supervisor just because the Division is “right there.” ICS isn’t just for the person talking on the radio — it’s for the whole system listening.

Matt also breaks down What3Words (and how it helps with remote rescues and wildland ops), Adam talks unified command challenges, and Brian sets the record straight on how volunteer departments handle ICS on the East Coast.

And then… Brian drops the news: a new North Carolina fire-service podcast is officially live.

Key Topics

• End-of-year fatigue + why the “heaviness” of late December is real

• Emotional bandwidth and the struggle of checking work email nonstop

• Housekeeping: Patreon, merch, and what the team needs to grow it

• Moment of silence for fallen first responders

• Thoughts & prayers for Sam from Fire Tech and his dog battling Lyme disease

• Listener request from Jeff: Tabletop discussion on ICS

• Why ICS works best when you don’t skip the chain

• Unified command realities with fire/EMS/law (and why it breaks down)

• Volunteer vs career: ICS isn’t a staffing issue — it’s a culture & training issue

• Wildland fire ICS: strike teams, divisions, branches, briefings, and why it scales

• What3Words + Avenza maps for remote rescue location accuracy

• Call to action: Rate ICS in your area from 0–10

• Big news: Brian launches “Carolina Fire Watch” (NC-only fire service show)

  
  

  Quote-Worthy Moments

• “I hate that little red dot with the number in it.”

• “ICS can expand and retract… and that’s the beauty of it.”

• “Inspect what you expect.”

• “If you allow agencies to respond who won’t do ICS… you’re assuming liability.”

Call To Action

🚨 On a scale of 0–10, how well does ICS actually work in your area today?
Drop your number + why (and keep it respectful — don’t name departments).

Sponsors

• Unkie’s Seasoning – go grab the goods and support the family

• The Burn Box (Tom) – monthly firehouse gear, tools, and surprises

  
  

  
  

  Community / Snail Mail Shoutouts

• Big love to Rhett (longtime listener, age 6) — and yes… the “Sorry Rhett” shirt is coming.

• Comments of the week included gift-giving as a captain/crew leader and a bunch of holiday love.

Big Announcement

🎙️ Brian launched a North Carolina-only fire service podcast:
“Carolina Fire Watch” — in partnership with the North Carolina State Firefighters Association, built for the ~56,000 firefighters across NC. Monthly episodes, recorded today, and inspired by the community and conversations coming out of SAFRE + listeners like Jeff.

The crew rings in the New Year with laughs, real talk, and a full reset for 2026. From Unkie’s wild coin story (and the infamous “goats” detail) to a heartfelt moment of silence, this episode hits the perfect mix of firehouse humor and purposeful reflection. Then the guys revisit their 2025 “Word of the Year,” share what worked (and what didn’t), and lay down their 2026 words with intentions they’re ready to live out.

• Unkie breaks down the coin mishap and the ABH ship firefighter history behind the design

• New Year’s perspective check: “We’re 25 years past Y2K…” 🤯

• Quick roster update: Doug’s out handling family life (staying “present” like he promised)

• Housekeeping: Patreon updates + listener engagement plans

• Sponsors shout-outs: Unkie’s Seasonings + The Burn Box

• A meaningful moment of silence honoring fallen firefighters and recognizing expanded cancer-related benefits for families

• The crew revisits 2025 “Words of the Year” and reflects honestly on growth, balance, and reality

• 2026 “Words of the Year” revealed: Prioritize. Step Up / Step Out. Consistency. Evaluate.

• Snail Mail: Listener Zach’s word “Seek,” plus questions about Unkie’s book coming to Audible and a shoutout to Job Town Tools

• “Success is forged in the fire of discipline…”

• “If you can make yourself 1% better every day… you’re way ahead of the game.”

• “Faith, family, then fire… not the other way around.”

• “It’s okay if the only thing you did this year was survive.”

• Brian: Accountability (and the ongoing struggle with balance + order of priorities)

• Unkie: Discipline (and a reminder that surviving the year counts)

• Matt: Study (growth as a captain, but learning the hard lesson: out of sight = out of mind)

• Freddy: Consistency (consistent effort, but also “consistently busy” — learning when to breathe)

• Brian: Prioritize (Faith → Family → Fire + health and fewer “yes” commitments)

• Unkie: Step Up / Step Out (ownership + leaving behind what no longer serves)

• Matt: Consistency (compound interest in knowledge, relationships, and leadership)

• Freddy: Evaluate (take a breath, assess bandwidth, and refocus on what matters)

• Zach (Spotify): Word = “Seek” — seeking God to be a better man, husband, friend, future firefighter, and healthier overall.

• Listener question: Will Unkie’s book be available on Audible? Answer: Yes (in progress / TBD details).

• Billy (Job Town Tools): “Bosses should absolutely get their guys a little something.” Mentions Crew Packs designed for exactly that.

• Unkie’s Seasonings

  • Garlic & Herb currently sold out (because y’all crushed it)

  • Hickory Smoke Salt / “Salty Fireman” still available

• The Burn Box

  • Monthly fire service gear box: gloves, hoods, tools, stickers, turnout bags, and more

Drop your Word for 2026 in the comments and tell us why. One word. Real intention. Let’s revisit it together a year from now.

In This EpisodeQuote-Worthy Moments2025 Words Recap2026 Words of the YearSnail Mail ShoutoutsSponsorsCall to Action

In This Episode

• Christmas energy from the jump: Foreigner references, “when the **** did we get ice cream?” and the show immediately going off the rails (as usual).

• Patreon is officially LIVE:

  Patreon LINK!

  • Rookie Tier ($5): Member shout-outs, submit topic requests, and a chance to be chosen for the Turnout Drill via Wheel of Names.

  • Engineer Tier ($10): Everything in Rookie plus behind-the-scenes videos, occasional bonus episodes, and entry into a monthly raffle for fire goodies.

  • The mission: grow the show’s reach (marketing + expanding the community), not “back pocket” money.

• Merch update: Store is moving, more items coming, and the crew is pumped to keep evolving it.

  MERCH LINK!

• Sponsor love: Quick hits for The Burn Box / FD Collectors Club and Unkie’s Seasoning (with some classic side quests along the way).

• Real-world reminder: Talk about a house explosion in Salisbury that injured firefighters—thankfully no deaths—and a broader reminder about highway operations and winter hazards.

• Christmas gifts at the fire station:

  • Matt breaks down how gift-giving can get awkward when expectations aren’t clear.

  • Solution: just ask the crew upfront if they want to do a gift exchange and set a price limit.

  • Brian shares a boss move: cooking for the crew during the day to build connection without adding another night obligation.

  • Adam talks “in-house” traditions: crew tools, shared gift ideas, and company pride items (bags, mugs, station-branded gear).

• Christmas lights at the firehouse:

  • Stations that go full-send on decorations (including a kitchen that looks like Christmas exploded—in the best way).

  • A tradition of cutting a “Charlie Brown” tree behind the station and decorating it with firehouse flair.

• Snail Mail segment:

  • Listener questions on other fire podcasts to check out (National Fire Radio + Fire Engineering get mentioned).

  • A great listener comment about why it’s hard to talk about calls with people outside the job—followed by a powerful conversation on talking to your spouse, setting boundaries, and protecting your mental health.

• Big picture: Gratitude for the community, momentum heading into year three, and excitement for what’s coming in 2026.

• “Patreon… you gotta get on!”

• “It’s seven minutes and thirty seconds… new record for off the rails.”

• “Do you guys put up Christmas lights around your firehouse?”

• “Sometimes they don’t understand it—but they need to hear you.”

✅ Join Patreon: Support the show + unlock bonus content + raffle entries.
✅ Check the merch store: New designs/items always coming.
✅ Follow/Subscribe: Spotify + Apple + YouTube (video episodes).
✅ Comment: Does your station do gift exchanges? And do you decorate the firehouse?

Quotes / Moments You’ll RememberCalls to Action

The Cool Fireman Podcast brings you into the world of firefighting with hosts Matt, Doug, Unkie, Brian, and Freddy. In Episode 137, things kick off completely off the rails (as usual) with farm animal chaos, blind dogs, and runaway cats. Then we settle in for some real talk with our very own co-host Adam McCoy—treated as the special guest he deserves to be—as he discusses his new book, Stepping Up and Stepping Out. It's part memoir, part workbook, all heart: tackling the hardest fire you'll ever fight—the one behind your own front door. Mental health, family transitions, vulnerability in the fire service, and leaving a real legacy. Plus housekeeping, moments of silence, and a wild hot wash to close it out.

Timestamps

• 00:00 – Chaos Intro: Cats, blind dogs, and farm life gone wrong
• 02:00 – Housekeeping: Happy Holidays, Hanukkah shoutout, Virtual Fill the Boot (Jan 2026), Patreon ideas
• 07:00 – Sponsors: Unkie's Seasoning, The Burn Box, FDIC 2026 hype
• 09:30 – Moments of Silence: Saranac FD (cancer LODD), Red McKimmy, Porterville FD tragic fire
• 15:00 – Interview with Adam McCoy: Inspiration behind Stepping Up and Stepping Out
• 18:00 – The mantra: "The hardest fire you'll fight is behind your own front door"
• 25:00 – Vulnerability, mental health, and the weight of the job
• 28:00 – Chapter 6: The Fire Next Door (parking lot talks and being there for brothers)
• 33:00 – Gold nugget one-liners from the book
• 39:00 – Workbook sections and daily check-ins
• 42:00 – Advice for rookies and the real legacy (family over firehouse)
• 49:00 – Emotional burden, work-life balance, and asking for help
• 52:00 – Brotherhood or Bullshit? Calling out the fakes
• 55:00 – Where to buy the book + the companion journal
• 55:30 – Snail Mail shoutouts
• 59:00 – Hot Wash: Apps, weather meals, pineapple on pizza debate, unwinding after a shift

Key Takeaways

• The first four minutes when you walk through the door at home matter more than the next four hours. Set the tone right.
• Toughness gets you through a shift; truth gets you through life.
• Some fires don't need water—they need honesty.
• Brotherhood is real, but it's not universal. Call out the bullies who preach it but don't live it.
• Your legacy isn't the fire department stories people tell—it's the one your family carries.
• Asking for help doesn't make you weak. Nobody has it all figured out, and that's okay.

Book SpotlightStepping Up and Stepping Out by Adam McCoyAvailable now on Amazon (search "Adam McCoy" or "Stepping Up and Stepping Out").Also grab the companion Stepping Up and Stepping Out Journal for daily check-ins and the 30-day challenge.Foreword by Kenny Mitchell (Operation Yellow Tape).

Support the Podcast

• Merch: Mugs, koozies, hoodies, tees, and more!👉 https://notoriousfireshops.com/cool_fireman_podcast/shop/home
• Sponsors: Unkie's Seasoning (unkieseasoning.com) | The Burn Box
• Upcoming: Virtual Fill the Boot fundraiser (January 2026) – stay tuned on Instagram!

Call to ActionDoes pineapple belong on pizza? Yes or no? Drop your vote in the comments on Instagram/TikTok/YouTube.Tag a brother or sister who needs to hear this episode. Share the real talk—we're all in this together.

Follow us on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts.Thanks for riding with us, crew. Stay safe out there.

– Matt, Doug, Unkie, Brian, and FreddyThe Cool Fireman Podcast

In this episode, the crew kicks things off with pure mayhem — snowstorms in Michigan, salmon rain in California, and a spontaneous performance of “It’s Raining Men.” From there, the guys dive into housekeeping, holiday updates, merch drops, and a surprising announcement from Brian about his upcoming Fire Marshals International Swimsuit Calendar.

But the main topic?
👉 AI in the Fire Service.
The crew discusses the real, practical ways firefighters and medics are using AI to improve documentation, training, promotional prep, and workflow efficiency — and where the line is when it comes to ethics, privacy, and skill degradation.

This episode is full of laughs, insights, and real conversations from the firehouse kitchen table.

🔥 Topics Covered

• Snowstorms, salmon rain, and the most chaotic podcast intro ever

• Holiday energy in the firehouse

• Doug’s mysterious absence (Hint: Dolphin training. Yes… seriously.)

• Housekeeping: Merch, Burn Box, Unkie’s Seasonings, and more

• Brian’s Fire Marshal swimsuit calendar reveal

• **AI in the Fire Service:

  • Should firefighters use AI for reports?

  • Using AI for narrative cleanup vs. full narrative writing

  • Ethical concerns and HIPAA pitfalls

  • AI for training, testing, scenario creation, promotional prep, and SOP development

  • The future of EPCRs and AI-built documentation frameworks**

• Over-documentation in EMS and why it happens

• The difference between departments using AI and those with policies against it

• The importance of keeping PHI and names OUT of AI tools

• Pro tips for using AI responsibly

• Snail Mail: Listener questions, traditions, and heartfelt wins

• Highlighting listeners Jacob and Benjamin — HUGE thank you!

🔥 Merch Store

Support the podcast!
Grab your hoodies, long sleeves, mugs, and more — all through Notorious Fire.

🛒 Shop here:
https://notoriousfire.com/collections/the-cool-fireman-podcast

Every purchase helps support the show and keeps the chaos going.

📬 Snail Mail Highlights

• Travis shares his station’s tradition of using Fill the Boot to buy gifts for 18 kids

• Quinn asks for Jason Patton (we’re trying!)

• Jacob lands an interview after asking the crew for mentorship advice

• Benjamin lists The Cool Fireman Podcast as his #1 podcast of the year

• Listeners show big support across TikTok, IG, and YouTube — we appreciate you!

  
  

🔥 Call to Action (Listener Question)

Does your department have an AI policy?
What can you legally use AI for… and what’s forbidden?

Comment on Spotify or message us on Instagram — we’ll feature the best responses next episode.

🎙️ Hosts

Matt • Brian • Freddy • Unkie
Doug (in Miami… teaching dolphins Spanish?)

Welcome back to The Cool Fireman Podcast, now dropping episodes every Monday!

In this post-Thanksgiving episode, Matt, Doug, and Unkie talk all things holiday routine at the firehouse—from brunches and Christmas trees to how each department handles weekends, downtime, and the importance of mental health during the holidays.

🔥 Topics Covered:

• The vibe of working holidays in the fire service

• Why “getting your Sunday back” is a real thing

• Putting up Christmas lights at the station (Clark Griswold would be proud)

• Doug’s call involving boiling chitlins (don’t worry, he didn’t go in)

• Department lateral transfers and what it means to “start over”

• The power of routine for mental health during the holidays

• Matt defends the legendary 12–2 “safety nap”

• A shoutout to our awesome listeners and supporters

• And yes… Brian’s transparent Speedo photo shoot gets brought up 👀

🕯 Moment of Silence – A heartfelt pause for first responders lost this year, both on-duty and off, including those struggling with mental health. You are not alone.

🛍️ MERCH IS LIVE!
Support the podcast and look rad doing it:
👉 https://notoriousfireshops.com/cool_fireman_podcast/shop/products/all?page=1

We’ve got hoodies, long-sleeve tees, mugs, and some amazing new designs—including the “Sorry Rhett!” drop and parody-inspired fire service graphics.

👕 Want to see a new design or have an idea for apparel? Let us know—we're always cooking up more.

📣 Don’t forget to subscribe wherever you listen:
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube | TikTok | Instagram
And if you loved this episode, share it with your crew or drop a comment—we read every one.

This week on The Cool Fireman Podcast, Matt, Doug, and Unkie sit down to reflect on what they’re most thankful for — family, the firehouse, facial hair, and of course, deviled eggs.

👨‍🚒 Whether you spent Thanksgiving on duty, deep-frying a turkey, or getting trampled at a Walmart for $10 off a TV, we’re here with laughs, gratitude, and a few firehouse food debates you didn’t know you needed.

🔥 In this episode:

• Roscoe’s post-turkey coma update 🐕

• Why Unkie believes deviled eggs should be eaten year-round

• Doug’s favorite leftovers

• The difference between stuffing and dressing (fight us)

• Matt's thoughts on smoked turkey vs Easy Bake pellet smokers

• A heartfelt moment of silence for those we’ve lost

• Shoutouts in our snail mail segment to longtime listeners, first-time commenters, and the legend himself: Quinn, the OG Little Fireman

🛍️ MERCH STORE IS LIVE!
Want to support the pod and look good doing it?
Check out our new merch line — hoodies, mugs, shot glasses, long-sleeves, and more:
👉 https://notoriousfireshops.com/cool_fireman_podcast/shop/products/all?page=1

Promo code TCFP for 15% off through the end of November!

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 From our firehouse to yours — Happy Thanksgiving.
Now go make that leftover turkey sandwich (with Duke’s mayo and black pepper, per Doug’s strict instructions).

Featuring: Quinn a.k.a. The Little Firefighter

In this special episode, we welcome a rad young guest — Quinn, better known online as The Little Firefighter. He joins Matt, Brian, and Unkie at the kitchen table to talk all things fire service, family, TikTok, and what it means to be part of the firehouse culture.

NEW MERCH STORE:

https://notoriousfireshops.com/cool_fireman_podcast/shop/home

Topics Covered:

• 🔔 Snail Mail returns — and Quinn's been busy commenting on Spotify!

• 🧁 Recap of the Super Bowl Appetizer Draft (congrats, Freddy!)

• 🧂 Shout-outs to Unkie’s Seasonings, Burn Box, and the new merch store

• 🚒 Quinn shares why he started his firefighting TikToks with his family

• 🏆 His big goal: be the guy who’s always there, pulling pranks, and lifting people up

• 🛠️ Firehouse pranks, old tillers, and FDIC memories

• 👻 Turnout Drill: ghosts, aliens, and pistachio ice cream?!

• 🧒 Heartfelt thoughts from Quinn’s parents about raising a fire family

• 🚨 Matt and Brian talk about junior/explorer programs and leadership development

This one’s got heart, humor, and a reminder of what keeps the fire service strong — FAMILY.

🎧 Available now on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, and wherever you listen.

In this powerful Veterans Day episode, Brian, Doug, and Freddy honor the veterans who serve both our country and our firehouses. From shoutouts to community heroes like The Salty Paramedic to emotional reflections on fallen brothers, this one hits deep.

NEW MERCH STORE:

https://notoriousfireshops.com/cool_fireman_podcast/shop/home

🚒 Topics Covered:

• 🇺🇸 Why Veterans Thrive in the Fire Service
  The guys dive into how military experience—discipline, work ethic, service mindset—translates into being a top-tier firefighter.

• 🔁 Lateral Transfers vs. Green Recruits
  Freddy shares a personal story about transitioning departments and the personality conflicts that followed. The crew weighs the pros and cons of bringing in seasoned laterals vs. molding fresh rookies.

• 💬 Trust, Tone & Timing
  What does it really mean to build trust? Brian unpacks Stephen Covey’s “Speed of Trust” and the importance of how we communicate in the firehouse.

• 🧂 Merch Drop!
  The Cool Fireman Podcast officially launches its new merch store with stickers, mugs, hoodies, and more!

  🛒 Merch: https://notoriousfireshops.com/cool_fireman_podcast/shop/home
  🎁 Use code TCFP for 15% OFF through November!

• 💬 Snail Mail & Appetizer Draft Results
  Listener comments pour in for the Fantasy Football Appetizer Snake Draft. Deviled eggs drama. Boneless wings betrayal. Who won the snack war? (Still up for debate...)

• 🕊️ Moment of Silence
  A heartfelt tribute to veterans and a somber farewell to a fallen firefighter from Doug's department.

📢 Call to Action:
Drop a comment telling us how many veterans serve in your department—and give them a shoutout!

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your shows.

This week’s episode has it all — snacks, sarcasm, shout-outs, and snail mail. The guys take a break from the heavy topics and go full-on firehouse fun mode in this Fantasy Appetizer Draft episode. Who picked the best three-game day snacks? That’s up to YOU to decide!

Plus:
🚨 A big-time merch announcement
📬 New messages from listeners in our Snail Mail segment
👨‍🚒 Tips for new recruits starting the Fire Academy
🧂 Unkie’s Seasonings update
🔥 A call to action that’ll get your stomach growling

🥨 Pigskin Appetizer Draft:

5 firemen. 3 rounds. Snake-style draft.
Game Day Food Showdown.

Pick Highlights:

• Freddy: Pulled pork nachos, jalapeño poppers, cheeseburger egg rolls

• Matt: Spinach artichoke dip (in a bread bowl), sliders, pigs in a blanket

• Unkie: Classic meatballs, buffalo chicken dip, deviled eggs

• Brian: Boneless wings (or chicken nuggets 🤔), queso dip, cheeseburger sliders

• Doug: Traditional wings, pizza, bacon-wrapped little smokies

🎯 You decide who won — vote on Instagram or Spotify!

🧢 Merch Announcement:

We’ve officially partnered with Notorious Fire Company for all Cool Fireman Podcast gear!
👕 Hoodies, shirts, hats — it’s all coming.
👉 Check thecoolfireman.com and our Instagram bio for updates.
Spoiler: It may already be live!

📬 Snail Mail Highlights:

• Don’t Kick My Dog 34 asked about fire academies — the crew drops major tips on mindset, heat acclimation, fitness, and claustrophobia training.

• Jacob Quartarella reached out about finding a mentor in the fire service. The team shares ideas for making connections when you don’t have firehouse contacts.

• Kenny Mitchell remains undefeated in the “Who Listens First?” challenge… can YOU beat him?

💬 Notable Quotes:

“Spinach artichoke dip… and you eat the bowl too!” – Matt
“Boneless wings are chicken nuggets with an ego.” – Doug
“That garlic and herb seasoning? Almost sold out.” – Unkie
“Every day in the academy is a job interview.” – Brian
“Respectful discourse? Always. Disrespect? No time for it.” – Doug
“We haven’t made a dime… but the brotherhood we’ve built? Worth it.” – Matt

🧠 Tips for Fire Academy Recruits:

• Acclimate to heat by wearing turnouts around the house

• Practice wearing a facepiece to build comfort and prevent panic

• Get your textbook early and start studying

• Tie knots and practice skills now — don’t wait

• Treat every day like a job interview

• Ask meaningful questions and stay humble

🎯 Call to Action:

🗳️ Vote for your favorite draft lineup!
Drop the name of the host whose appetizer picks you think are unbeatable.
🔥 BONUS: Try to beat Kenny Mitchell by being the first comment on our Friday episode post for a chance at a prize pack.

🎧 Listen Now On:

Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube
📅 New episodes drop every Friday at midnight PT

This episode is half Halloween chaos, half serious kitchen-table mentorship talk — with a little FD candy in between.

🎃 Costumes? Check.
😷 Smelling like sweaty Cheetos? Sadly, also check.
💥 Real firehouse talk about mentorship, generational shifts, and showing up for your crew? Absolutely.

We pick up where Episode 129 left off — answering listener comments, tackling social media backlash, and diving deep into what mentorship really means in today’s fire service.

💬 In This Episode:

• 🎃 Halloween Vibes:
  Doug's dressed as a nun. Brian rocks the Scream mask. Matt's just sweating in a USA tee.
  Spoiler: We're not as funny as we think we are, but we try.

• 🚨 Snail Mail Reactions:
  The clip heard around the firehouse — we clarify the “your time isn't more important than mine” statement.
  → It’s not about sick leave. It’s about respect and doing the right thing.

• 🔥 Mentorship Talk – Part 2:

  • Are rookies today really “soft” — or just different?

  • Why the way you were taught might not work anymore.

  • Creating an environment where rookies feel safe asking questions.

  • Holding onto accountability while ditching the unnecessary ego.

• 👶 New Firefighters & Generational Shifts:

  • Lateral hires, job-hopping, and the shift from fear-based leadership

  • The power of appreciation and how simple gratitude builds trust

  • Let rookies learn the why — not just memorize the what

• 🚒 Real-Life Training & Tactics:

  • Using tech (YouTube, IG) as modern-day tabletop drills

  • Changing hose loads, nozzle pressure debates, and field-tested feedback

  • “If you're not doing something better or safer… why not?”

• 📣 Shoutout Time:

  • Kenny Mitchell: Still undefeated in the “first to listen” challenge

  • Quinn a.k.a. “Little Firefighter”: Our newest (and possibly youngest) superfan

  • Rebecca: The mystery commenter finally revealed

  • Andrew: Your RIT team question is on deck — we want more info!

• 🎁 Giveaway Alert:
  Think you can beat Kenny? Be the first to comment on our Friday episode drop (Spotify or Instagram) and win a firehouse prize box!

  🧠 Notable Quotes:

“We’re not saying don’t use sick leave. We’re saying don’t screw your buddy to save your Saturday.” – Matt
“Your time isn’t more valuable than mine.” – Brian
“Mentorship means creating a space where rookies feel safe to fail — and strong enough to ask questions.” – Freddy
“Tradition isn’t bad… but don’t let it stop progress.” – Doug
“You’re not better than anyone — this job will humble you.” – Unkie

👻 Halloween PSA:

Parents — be the adult. Firefighters don’t want to respond to tragic calls on Halloween night. Keep your kids safe, stay visible, and don’t be “that house.”

📫 Snail Mail Segment:

We’re loving the DMs, comments, and questions. Keep them coming!
Want to be featured in Snail Mail? Hit us up at thecoolfireman@gmail.com or DM us on TikTok / Instagram.

🎧 Listen Now On:

Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube
📅 New episodes drop every Friday at midnight PT

This week on The Cool Fireman Podcast, we dive into something every firefighter—rookie or salty vet—should care about: mentorship. From the old kitchen table talks to today’s struggles with phones and generational disconnect, the crew gets honest about how mentorship has evolved, what makes a good mentor, and why it matters now more than ever.

Expect a little banter, some real talk, and plenty of heart.

💬 EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS:

• “Can You Beat Kenny?” Competition:
  Who’s the first to listen every Friday? Kenny thinks he is. If you think you’ve got what it takes, drop a comment on our Friday Instagram post for a chance to win!

• What Is Housekeeping?:
  We explain our opening segment: sponsor shoutouts, community love, and updates from past episodes.

• Mentorship Then vs. Now:

  • Why kitchen table talks mattered.

  • Is the “sink or swim” culture gone for good?

  • The dangers of soft feedback culture.

• Truth vs. Kindness:

  • Why good mentors aren’t always the nicest—but they are honest.

  • Don’t confuse gentle coaching with sugarcoating.

• Being a Mentee (and a Mentor):

  • The importance of having someone to trust, confide in, and learn from.

  • How a good mentor shapes not just your firehouse skills, but your character.

  • Pro tip: You don’t stop needing a mentor once you promote.

• Why Firehouse Culture Matters:

  • Phones vs. fellowship.

  • Why captains need to lead the crew off the couch and back to connection.

  • Shift trades, respect, and why “screwing your buddy” should never be okay.

🚒 SNAIL MAIL SHOUTOUTS:

• Rebecca: Proud Cool Fireman Podcast Addict—and yeah, we say “f*ck” a lot.

• Internal Inferno: 14 years old and wants to be a paramedic. Our advice? Be a kid, stay out of trouble, and find someone to look up to.

• Zach Brown & Station 2 Crew: That steak and eggs smell was 🔥

• Little Firefighter (on TikTok): Spartan rig updates and truck spec talk continues.

• Chief Joey Webb: Major love for Ben Hooper & Ben’s Backdraft BBQ.

💥 QUOTES TO REMEMBER:

“You need someone who tells you what you need to hear, not just what you want to hear.” – Matt
“Don’t take it personal. Take it serious.” – Brian
“Every generation says the next one has it easier. What if we just stopped teaching them the way we were taught?” – Adam (a.k.a. Unkie)
“Not on my watch, bro. Not on my watch.” – Matt

🎧 LISTEN ON:
Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube
📲 Follow us on Instagram @coolfiremanpodcast
🔔 New episodes drop every Friday at midnight (PT)

This week’s episode is an absolute rollercoaster—from serious community risk reduction to Doug being attacked by a rhino on safari, and even an amazing question from a 14-year-old future paramedic in our SNAIL MAIL segment 🐌.

We talk about what it means to truly serve your community, not just during emergencies, but through prevention, education, and compassion. It’s a mix of kitchen table laughs, deep leadership insight, and real-world firehouse experience—just the way we like it.

🔥 Episode Highlights:

• 🦏 Doug couldn’t make it… he’s hanging with giraffes and dodging rhinos in Africa

• 🚒 Why we haven’t seen a heroin overdose in a while—“Closed borders!”

• 📢 Community Risk Reduction (CRR): What it really means and how to do it right

• 🧠 The obligation to speak up when something in the community isn’t right

• 🧯 Public programs that work: CPR classes, fall prevention, Trunk or Treat, CERT

• 💸 How fire departments can create low-cost, high-impact community outreach

• ❤️ Why it's your responsibility to carry on the fire service legacy

• 🗣️ Brian’s town orientation and communicating mission/vision to new hires

• 🤯 PSA: Don't be the salty firefighter that refuses to give a kid candy

• 📈 Should you measure program success by saves? Or by outreach?

  
  

  🐌 Snail Mail Segment Returns!

• 💬 A 14-year-old future paramedic asks: “What can I do to prepare?”
  ➤ Our answer: BE A KID. Have fun. Stay out of trouble. Learn and grow.
  ➤ Take EMT in high school, do ride-alongs, and don’t forget to enjoy life.

• 🍖 Zach on BBQ sauce: “If it needs sauce, it's bad BBQ.”

• 🐖 Ben Hooper shoutouts and whole-hog debates spark more Backdraft BBQ talk

• 👏 Shoutout to James (Station 3 Leather) for listening at 5:40 AM

  
  

  💬 Call to Action:

• What programs does your department offer the community?

• What’s something you can do—big or small—to reduce risk before the call?

• Have you ever started a community program from scratch? Let us know!

  🧂 Sponsors:

• Unkie’s Seasonings – The firehouse favorite. Available at unkiesseasoning.com

• The Burn Box – FD Collectors Club: Monthly firehouse-themed gear & goodies

• FD Collectors Club – Show off your challenge coin. If you don’t have it at the bar, you’re buying the round 🍻

🎧 Available on:

Spotify (Video), YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music
📬 Snail Mail comments? Drop them on Spotify Q&A or YouTube!