Firefighter Podcast

Latest Episodes:

#344 Proficiency, Accountability & Embracing Mistakes with John McDonough Dec 19, 2024

Show notes

My returning guest today is good friend of the podcast John McDonough who has been a professional firefighter for 38 years with the Fire and Rescue New South Wales in Sydney Australia.
He is currently an operational Duty Commander in charge of 14 stations in the busy inner west zone of Sydney. He was Team Leader of the Fire Operational Training Team (FOTT). This team trains all firefighters and officers in structural fire behaviour and firefighting techniques and tactics.
Over the last 17 years, this has developed into a standardized doctrine for how firefighters act and behave at the task and tactical level. It is taught at all levels from recruit to Station Officer.
He is a co-author of ‘3D Firefighting – Training, Tactics and Techniques’, which is published in the USA. In 2009 he was awarded Australia’s highest honor for Fire Officers, the Australian Fire Service Medal for his work in structural firefighting training.

We only feature the latest 200 episodes of the podcast on public platforms so to access our podcast LIBRARY, every Debrief & document CLICK HERE
PODCAST GIFT - Get your FREE subscription to essential Firefighting publications HERE
A big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode.
GORE-TEX Professional Clothing
MSA The Safety Company
PATROL STORE UK
IDEX
HAIX Footwear - Get offical podcast discount on HAIX HERE
Xendurance - to hunt performance & endurance 20% off HERE with code ffp20
Lyfe Linez - Get Functional Hydration FUEL for FIREFIGHTERS, Clean no sugar for daily hydration. 80% of people live dehydrated and for firefighters this cost
Hibern8 - a plant based sleep aid specially designed to promote a restful night's sleep and awaken you feeling refreshed and energised

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.***

Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew

#343 Beyond the Flames: The Lifespan of Firefighters Gear, PPE & Fabrics Dec 16, 2024

Show notes

In today’s episode, Beyond the Flames: The Lifespan of Firefighter Fabrics, we’re turning up the heat on groundbreaking research from the University of Alberta. Joining us are two incredible experts: Saiful, a PhD candidate who’s spent the past four years uncovering why firefighter gear doesn’t always stand the test of time, and Dr. Patricia Dolez, an Associate Professor and leader in textile science.

We’ll take you behind the scenes of their cutting-edge work, uncovering the hidden factors that can weaken your protective clothing. We’re talking moisture, heat, and even the chemicals that linger after a tough call. You’ll hear about:

The science of fabric degradation—tensile strength, sulphur content, and water repellency breakdown.
The unseen dangers of chemical leaching and how outdated testing standards put safety at risk.
And exciting new advancements, like sensors that can monitor gear aging in real time and revolutionary cleaning methods that outshine the old-school wash.

This episode is packed with critical insights for firefighters, researchers, and anyone passionate about innovation in safety. Together, Saiful and Dr. Dolez will help us understand how we can better protect those who protect us.

So, grab your gear, settle in, and get ready to explore the science behind the equipment that keeps our heroes safe on the frontlines.
We only feature the latest 200 episodes of the podcast on public platforms so to access our podcast LIBRARY, every Debrief & document CLICK HERE
PODCAST GIFT - Get your FREE subscription to essential Firefighting publications HERE
A big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode.
GORE-TEX Professional Clothing
MSA The Safety Company
PATROL STORE UK
IDEX
HAIX Footwear - Get offical podcast discount on HAIX HERE
Xendurance - to hunt performance & endurance 20% off HERE with code ffp20
Lyfe Linez - Get Functional Hydration FUEL for FIREFIGHTERS, Clean no sugar for daily hydration. 80% of people live dehydrated and for firefighters this cost
Hibern8 - a plant based sleep aid specially designed to promote a restful night's sleep and awaken you feeling refreshed and energised

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.***

Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew

#342 Police Interceptors, consent vs force and the true trauma cost paid by first responders with Ben Pearson Dec 09, 2024

Show notes

This week, we’re stepping out of the fire station and into the fast-paced, high-pressure world of policing with a truly extraordinary guest.

Ben Pearson has spent the last 19 years fighting crime on the front lines as a member of the elite Roads Policing Unit of West Yorkshire Police. As a key figure in Channel 5’s hit series Police Interceptors, Ben has been at the center of some of the most intense and dangerous moments imaginable—chasing down criminals at high speeds, arresting murderers, rapists, and violent offenders, and bringing justice to some of the toughest cases out there. His career has been defined by courage, precision, and a relentless drive to serve and protect.

But Ben’s story is about so much more than what you see on TV. It’s a journey that takes us behind the badge, offering an intimate look at the reality of life as a police officer—the highs, the lows, and the toll it can take. After years of dealing with fatal collisions, witnessing unspeakable tragedies, and losing his parents, Ben found himself fighting a battle he never saw coming. His mental health deteriorated under the weight of trauma and loss, and he discovered just how unprepared the system was to help those who serve in such high-stakes roles.
connect with Ben HERE
Ben's Youtube HERE
We only feature the latest 200 episodes of the podcast on public platforms so to access our podcast LIBRARY, every Debrief & document CLICK HERE
PODCAST GIFT - Get your FREE subscription to essential Firefighting publications HERE
A big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode.
GORE-TEX Professional Clothing
MSA The Safety Company
PATROL STORE UK
IDEX
HAIX Footwear - Get offical podcast discount on HAIX HERE
Xendurance - to hunt performance & endurance 20% off HERE with code ffp20
Lyfe Linez - Get Functional Hydration FUEL for FIREFIGHTERS, Clean no sugar for daily hydration. 80% of people live dehydrated and for firefighters this cost
Hibern8 - a plant based sleep aid specially designed to promote a restful night's sleep and awaken you feeling refreshed and energised

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.***

Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew

#341 Fighting stereotypes & Clearing a Path for others with Vicky Shakesby MBE Dec 02, 2024

Show notes

Today, we have the privilege of speaking with an extraordinary trailblazer. Vicky Shakesby MBE broke barriers as the first full-time female firefighter in her brigade in the early 1990s, carving a path for women in a field historically dominated by men. Her story is one of courage, resilience, and an unyielding commitment to progress.
Connect with Vicky HERE
We only feature the latest 200 episodes of the podcast on public platforms so to access our podcast LIBRARY, every Debrief & document CLICK HERE
PODCAST GIFT - Get your FREE subscription to essential Firefighting publications HERE
A big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode.
GORE-TEX Professional Clothing
MSA The Safety Company
PATROL STORE UK
IDEX
HAIX Footwear - Get offical podcast discount on HAIX HERE
Xendurance - to hunt performance & endurance 20% off HERE with code ffp20
Lyfe Linez - Get Functional Hydration FUEL for FIREFIGHTERS, Clean no sugar for daily hydration. 80% of people live dehydrated and for firefighters this cost
Hibern8 - a plant based sleep aid specially designed to promote a restful night's sleep and awaken you feeling refreshed and energised

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.***

Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew

#340 James Braidwood, Paul Grimwood & 200 years of Firefighting with Mike Stachowicz Nov 25, 2024

Show notes

The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) celebrated the 200th anniversary of the world's first municipal fire service on October 23, 2024 at St Giles' Cathedral service where The SFRS hosted a commemorative service with the Princess Royal, SFRS staff, politicians, and guests in attendance.

The SFRS Chief Officer led the rededication of the statue of James Braidwood, the first Master of Fire Engines and "father of modern fire services". Braidwood's great-great-great granddaughter, Diana Hamilton Jones, was also present

Today’s episode was recorded prior to this celebration alongside and guided by my good friend Mike Stachowicz AKA STACKO so join us as we journey back to the origins of organized firefighting in the United Kingdom, a journey that wouldn’t be possible without the pioneering efforts of one man: James Braidwood. Often recognized as the father of modern firefighting, Braidwood founded the first municipal fire brigade in Edinburgh in the early 19th century, a visionary move that forever changed the way we approach fire control and rescue.
Link for FREE content HERE
We only feature the latest 200 episodes of the podcast on public platforms so to access our podcast LIBRARY, every Debrief & document CLICK HERE
PODCAST GIFT - Get your FREE subscription to essential Firefighting publications HERE
A big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode.
GORE-TEX Professional Clothing
MSA The Safety Company
PATROL STORE UK
IDEX
HAIX Footwear - Get offical podcast discount on HAIX HERE
Xendurance - to hunt performance & endurance 20% off HERE with code ffp20
Lyfe Linez - Get Functional Hydration FUEL for FIREFIGHTERS, Clean no sugar for daily hydration. 80% of people live dehydrated and for firefighters this cost
Hibern8 - a plant based sleep aid specially designed to promote a restful night's sleep and awaken you feeling refreshed and energised

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.***

Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew

#339 NOW & NEXT with Pete & Carl Nov 18, 2024

Show notes

Get Involved with the chat - Contribute questions, ideas & topics to be discussed on the podcast using our Firefighter Podcast Burner Phone on 07950 610749 all communication will be treated sensitively & no identity revealed without your permission
In todays episode, Pete and Carl discuss

the challenges of the email hedonic treadmill of poor communication
the impact of AI tools like ChatGPT
personal growth through changing perspectives
reflections on recent podcast guests
the importance of effective communication
the need for innovation in firefighter training to address health concerns.
the pressing need for collaborative research in the fire service
innovative technologies emerging in firefighting
delve into the evolving career paths within the fire and rescue services
the attraction to the fire service as a lifelong career,
the complexities of promotion processes
and the hidden rules of effective leadership.

Leadership Link HERE
We only feature the latest 200 episodes of the podcast on public platforms so to access our podcast LIBRARY, every Debrief & document CLICK HERE
PODCAST GIFT - Get your FREE subscription to essential Firefighting publications HERE
A big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode.
GORE-TEX Professional Clothing
MSA The Safety Company
PATROL STORE UK
IDEX
HAIX Footwear - Get offical podcast discount on HAIX HERE
Xendurance - to hunt performance & endurance 20% off HERE with code ffp20
Lyfe Linez - Get Functional Hydration FUEL for FIREFIGHTERS, Clean no sugar for daily hydration. 80% of people live dehydrated and for firefighters this cost
Hibern8 - a plant based sleep aid specially designed to promote a restful night's sleep and awaken you feeling refreshed and energised

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.***

Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew

#338 Firefighter Suicide, Mental health & a conversation on Formalised Academic Curiosity with Researcher Dr Rowena Hill MBE Nov 11, 2024

Show notes

My guest today is Rowena Hill, Rowena is a Professor in the psychology department at Nottingham Trent University, she is a Professor of Resilience, Emergencies and Disaster Science.

Contact Dr Rowena Hill MBE at rowena.hill@ntu.ac.uk
Important LINKS:
Dr Hill NTU
National review of community risk methodology across UK Fire and Rescue Service
ACER Group
FF Health & Wellbeing Work
FF Charity Suicide Prevention
Get Involved with the chat - Contribute questions, ideas & topics to be discussed on the podcast using our Firefighter Podcast Burner Phone on 07950 610749 all communication will be treated sensitively & no identity revealed without your permission
We only feature the latest 200 episodes of the podcast on public platforms so to access our podcast LIBRARY, every Debrief & document CLICK HERE
PODCAST GIFT - Get your FREE subscription to essential Firefighting publications HERE
A big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode.
GORE-TEX Professional Clothing
MSA The Safety Company
PATROL STORE UK
IDEX
HAIX Footwear
GRENADE
RIP INTO Podcast Apparel
Lyfe Linez - Get Functional Hydration FUEL for FIREFIGHTERS, Clean no sugar for daily hydration. 80% of people live dehydrated and for firefighters this cost
Hibern8 - a plant based sleep aid specially designed to promote a restful night's sleep and awaken you feeling refreshed and energised

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.***

Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew

#337 National Breathing Apparatus Challenge 2024 Part 2 of 2 The Debrief Nov 07, 2024

Show notes

Today were closing up with part 2 of 2 from this years NBAC as I sat down after the competition with some of the organizers Mark Andrews & Phill Sanders.

The National Breathing Apparatus Challenge is an extraordinary event that highlights the relentless pursuit of excellence, safety, and best practices within the UK Fire and Rescue Services and brings together firefighters from across the UK to test their skills, teamwork, and knowledge in real-world firefighting scenarios.

Each year, teams of five firefighters from different brigades battle it out for the title of Best Breathing Apparatus Team. Their challenge? To navigate the intensity of a property fire, with just 30 minutes to extinguish the flames and rescue casualties.

Find out more about the NBAC here - National Breathing Apparatus Challenge Official Website (nbac.co.uk)
We only feature the latest 200 episodes of the podcast on public platforms so to access our podcast LIBRARY, every Debrief & document CLICK HERE
PODCAST GIFT - Get your FREE subscription to essential Firefighting publications HERE
A big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode.
GORE-TEX Professional Clothing
MSA The Safety Company
PATROL STORE UK
IDEX
HAIX Footwear
GRENADE
RIP INTO Podcast Apparel
Lyfe Linez - Get Functional Hydration FUEL for FIREFIGHTERS, Clean no sugar for daily hydration. 80% of people live dehydrated and for firefighters this cost
Hibern8 - a plant based sleep aid specially designed to promote a restful night's sleep and awaken you feeling refreshed and energised

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.***

Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew

#336 National Breathing Apparatus Challenge 2024 Part 1 of 2 Behind the Scenes Nov 04, 2024

Show notes

Today we dive deep into an extraordinary event that highlights the relentless pursuit of excellence, safety, and best practices within the UK Fire and Rescue Services known as the National Breathing Apparatus Challenge. This is a special two-part episode dedicated to this incredible competition, which brings together firefighters from across the UK to test their skills, teamwork, and knowledge in real-world firefighting scenarios.

In today's part 1 episode, we’ll take you behind the scenes of this intense and inspiring event. We’ll explore how it started, how teams prepare, the high standards they must meet, and the cutting-edge safety measures in place. So, stay with us as we showcase what it truly means to continuously improve and embody best practices in one of the most challenging and essential professions in the world.
Order of conversions:

John Taylor South Yorkshire FRS (01:54)
Sam Cushing & Matt Adams Gloucestershire FRS (09:03)
Dan Jones LFB (27:22)
Paul Marcs LFB (34:06)
Adam Clark Lancashire (45:30)
Domonic Norcross Mid & West Wales FRS (51:30)
Jamie chalk Norfolk’s, Sam west mids, Steph Hereford and Worcester (56:23)

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.***

Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew

#335 Tackling Misconduct & Unacceptable Behaviour within UK Fire & Rescue with Roy Wilsher of HMICFRS Oct 28, 2024

Show notes

Today we welcome back Roy Wilsher from His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (HMICFRS).
During our conversation we discussed fire and rescue services in England, focusing on the handling of misconduct, the impact of toxic cultures and the importance of encouraging difficult conversations in the workplace.
Roy highlighted the need to address ongoing distrust in misconduct processes and the underrepresentation of women and minority groups in the fire service. We also explored capacity issues faced by services, the need for a College of Fire and for collaboration to create positive changes across the sector.
Find the reports and more at the following LINKS

Standards of behaviour: The handling of misconduct in fire and rescue services - His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (justiceinspectorates.gov.uk)

State of Fire and Rescue: The Annual Assessment of Fire and Rescue Services in England 2023 - His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire & Rescue Services (justiceinspectorates.gov.uk)

We only feature the latest 200 episodes of the podcast on public platforms so to access our podcast LIBRARY, every Debrief & document CLICK HERE
PODCAST GIFT - Get your FREE subscription to essential Firefighting publications HERE
A big thanks to our partners for supporting this episode.
GORE-TEX Professional Clothing
MSA The Safety Company
PATROL STORE UK
IDEX
HAIX Footwear
GRENADE
RIP INTO Podcast Apparel
Lyfe Linez - Get Functional Hydration FUEL for FIREFIGHTERS, Clean no sugar for daily hydration. 80% of people live dehydrated and for firefighters this cost
Hibern8 - a plant based sleep aid specially designed to promote a restful night's sleep and awaken you feeling refreshed and energised

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

***The views expressed in this episode are those of the individual speakers. Our partners are not responsible for the content of this episode and does not warrant its accuracy or completeness.***

Please support the podcast and its future by clicking HERE and joining our Patreon Crew

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected