FIT TO FIGHT FIRE

THE CRUCIBLE Jan 07, 2025

In this episode, I sat down with Marcos and Logan to discuss our vision for The Crucible and how it all came together. We discussed what The Crucible is and what it's not.

This conversation will give you a clear view of The Crucible's purpose and why it is so important to us.

The application closes today at 11:59 PM Mountain Time. If you are wondering if you have what it takes to complete The Crucible, the only way to find out is to apply and try.

What is The Crucible?

We will do 12 in-gear workouts over 24 hours on May 31st, 2025, in Denver, Colorado.

We believe in building mental and physical resilience through fitness, hard work, and shared suffering.

Crucible: a severe test in which something is tested through an external and internal conflict, producing something new.

Apply here:

https://www.fittofightfireusa.com/the-crucible

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

Brad Conrado - IDENTIFIED IN CHRIST Nov 07, 2024

Brad shares how a grab made, made him challenge where he was putting his identity and how firefighters who follow Christ can lead their firehouse lives.
We talk about how identifying as a firefighter first can leave us feeling lost when our careers are over.

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

Joshua Dukes - PRIORITIZE PAIN Jun 07, 2024

In episode 30, I talk with Joshua Dukes about several seasons of adversity that he weathered with his faith in the Lord. Joshua shares the challenges faced when his 19-month-old son Trucker Dukes was diagnosed with cancer and how Trucker inspired so many during his battle with cancer and continues to today after his passing.
We talk about how standing up for his beliefs led to his termination from the job he loved as a firefighter and how he continues to give all the pain he endured throughout his life purpose.
This is a story of courage, faith, and living with joy amid trials. Joshua's time with me inspired me, moved me to tears, and made me want to be a better man. Joshua's powerful story will inspire you.

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

Josh Burchick - FORGED & UNBROKEN May 20, 2024

This is an incredibly powerful episode where Josh talks about his crew's performance during an RIT/RIC activation for the late Nathan Flynn. Josh shares how years of mental and physical training came together for his crew so they could do everything possible to rescue one of their own.

Josh's perspective, backed by data, sheds light on the staggering physical demands that firefighters face in their line of duty. His work underscores the undeniable strain on their minds and bodies, making it a must-listen for all.

Josh also has a Patreon page with incredible resources to help us prepare mentally and physically for our jobs. I joined yesterday and love the content.

Forged And Unbroken Fire Patreon:

https://patreon.com/user?u=89578184&utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan&utm_content=join_link

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

Stratton West - TRAGEDY TESTS FAITH Apr 08, 2024

Episode 28 Tragedy Tests Faith
On December 14, Stratton had to say his final goodbyes to his daughter Kingsley.

Stratton and his three children were involved in a head-on car accident on his way to a fire department Christmas party, resulting in Stratton and his three children being sent to multiple hospitals. Stratton’s daughters were both in critical condition with Kingsley passing away.

Stratton shares how his faith has helped him endure the loss of a child and his ability to wake up every morning and be the husband and father God calls him to be.

As Stratton and his two children continue to recover and he works through his injuries to get back to his fire department, the expenses are stacking up. I’m sharing the link here so that our community can help our brother and his family.

https://www.gofundme.com/f/the-wests-medical-expense-fundraiser

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

Chris Snow - SELF DESTRUCTION INTO GOD'S CONSTRUCTION Feb 08, 2024

Chris Snow - SELF DESTRUCTION INTO GOD'S CONSTRUCTION
Chris shares how his reckless life led him to prison, addiction, and affliction. We talk about living as a follower of Christ in the firehouse, giving our pain purpose, and locking arms with a small group of brothers you can lean on through transparency and authenticity. This episode shows us all that we are all broken; some of us just do a better job hiding it.

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

Scott Vadakin - SHOTS FIRED Dec 29, 2023

In Episode 26, I talk to Scott Vadkin about losing a child and how his faith gave him hope during life's darkest season. It is a story of heartbreak, devastation, and divine intervention.

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

Jeremy Sanders - STRENGTH IN WEAKNESS Dec 22, 2023

In Episode 25 Ric Jorge and I talk to Jeremy Sanders about a difficult season of life he endured and how he found strength in his weakness. Jeremy shares how his faith helped him continue to move forward and how the adversity he faced refined him into the man God needed him to be.

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

Marcos Orozco - BACKSEAT SUCCESS Dec 12, 2023

In Episode 24, I talk to Marcos Orozco about starting over at a new fire department, how fitness positions you for opportunities beyond the fireground, overcoming alcoholism, and how being a career backseat firefighter is a successful career.

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

Marc Maikoski - BE HERE NOW Oct 24, 2023

Ric Jorge and I talked to Marc about the pain he has carried over his career and how helping others has been the greatest way for him to give his pain purpose and share the power of Jesus in his life. He shares how we all need to find our tribe but must do the work required first.

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

Robert Wynne - TURN TO ME Oct 06, 2023

Robert Wynne shares an inspiring comeback story. He talks about being abandoned by his father, his drug addiction, stabbed seven times in prison, and how his relationship with God brought him to the fire service.

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

Robbie Townsend - RESILIENT Sep 29, 2023

Robbie talks about his challenges with mental health and how his faith was the foundation of his way back to peace. He also shares how the GSD program provided him with the training ground to build the resilience necessary to overcome life's challenges.
If you want to reach out to Robbie = robbietownsend@ymail.com

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

Can I take CBD? - RESPOND WELLNESS Sep 28, 2023

Why do we believe in CBD?
We talk about how CBD positively impacted our lives, leading us to create Respond Wellness and begin the mission of helping our brothers and sisters with some of the challenges we face as firefighters.
Head on over to respondwellness.com to learn more.

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

Ric Jorge - GOD FIRST Sep 19, 2023

Ric Jorge had a difficult season of life that led him to God. From doing and dealing drugs to losing close friends, Ric was a rough man with dark plans. It's a journey that started dark and has brought abundant light, with Jesus being the leader of his life.

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

David Rhodes - GSD LEADERSHIP Aug 24, 2023

On Episode 18, I had the opportunity to talk to Fire Engineering Editor-in-Chief David Rhodes. We spoke about t-shirt management seven years later, how the Georgia Smoke Diver leadership model would serve the fire service well, and what the Georgia Smoke Diver program provides firefighters beyond the job.

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

Brian Abbott - STAND UP Jul 19, 2023

I talked to Brian Abbott about his attempted suicide and how an accumulation of calls, fire department culture, and his demons led to a decision to end it all, and the words "Stand Up" put him on a path of healing and resilience through his faith in Jesus.

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

Jeff Rothmeier - JOY IN THE PAIN Jul 18, 2023

Jeff talks about his desire to honor God in all he does and how faith guided him through a season of adversity to find joy in the pain.

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

Rick Swales - AGE IS JUST A NUMBER Jul 07, 2023

I talk to Rick about his journey into the fire service, his faith, the Georgia Smoke Diver Program, and how age is just a number.
We dive into the importance of fitness, mindset, and consistent training and how trust is built through shared suffering.
Join the Fit To Fight Fire Patreon Community!
https://www.patreon.com/fittofightfire

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

Dear Out-Of-Shape Firefighter Jun 14, 2023

Dear out-of-shape firefighter,
I'm writing to you as your conscience, hoping we could reconnect you to why you were here or maybe even connect you for first time. Too many have ignored your current physical state. Some have even supported and strengthened your excuses.
I know this may not be a comfortable conversation for you, but the responsibility in front of all of us is more important than your own personal feelings.
Join the Fit To Fight Fire Community!
For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspirational message, monthly training, and much more!
https://www.patreon.com/fittofightfire

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

James Geering - BEHIND THE SHIELD Jun 02, 2023

James Geering is the host of the Behind The Shield Podcast, and over the years and on more than 700 episodes, he has spoken with subject matter experts in the areas of sleep deprivation, mental health, shift work, fitness, and many more topics that affect the health and wellness of firefighters. In this episode, we talk about shift work, the best work schedule for firefighters, mental health, toxic leadership, fitness, and much more.
You will want to listen to our conversation if you want to improve any of the areas mentioned in your fire department.

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

Anthony Gillan - INJURY CHALLENGES IDENTITY May 03, 2023

Tony talks about his recent injury and how that challenged his identity as a firefighter and strengthened his faith, as well as how important it is to have brothers in your life who will encourage and lift you up.

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

Don Sapp: Life with Jesus and his "It's Nothing But Work" Mentality. Apr 22, 2023

This is a great conversation with Don Sapp. He talks about his "nothing but work" mentality and how that led him through his career. However, the greatest thing that ever happened to Don was finding a relationship with Jesus, because it changed him and the way he saw the value in others. From life in the fire service, to divorce, and Jesus Changing his life, Don talks about it all. He does a fantastic job at being transparent and using his mistakes to help others see the truth.

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

VITAMINS FOR THE MIND 2 with Corley Moore Apr 11, 2023

Corley will be contributing to the Vitamins For The Mind series, and in his first one, he talks about learning, one of The 9L's, from his book, The 9L's.
You can purchase a copy of The 9L's on Amazon!

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

Jim Moss - HONORING GOD Apr 10, 2023

Jim Moss is the author of Firefighter Functional Fitness and Firefighter Success and hosts the podcast Firefighter Success. In Episode 11, we talk to Jim about leaning into God's word and will for our lives when it comes to making tough decisions, as well as how Jim's faith has allowed him to lead in a way that honors God.

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

Jay Bonnifield - DIGGING DEEPER INTO FAITH Apr 07, 2023

Jay talks about how his anger was getting in the way of his marriage and how digging deeper into his faith helped him as a husband, father, and firefighter. Jay shares how being broken leads to a deeper level of faith and humility.

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

Zach King - SEASONS OF FAITH Apr 01, 2023

Zach King shares his faith journey and how different seasons of life have shaped his faith to where it is today. Zach talks about how he had questioned religion in the past and how he sees his faith today.

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

Cayla Harper: Influence for Jesus, Hard Work, and Overcoming Hardships Mar 27, 2023

This conversation with Cayla Harper was REFRESHING. She has an incredible testimony and a purpose to encourage and influence others by being who Christ created her to be. One of the most important things for Cayla is being genuine and real, and she does exactly that through all of her passions, her family, firefighting, and being an example to others! You definitely don't want to miss this conversation, so hit play and enjoy!

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

Chad Belger - RECOVERY RX Mar 20, 2023

Chad Belger shares how he was in a season of life where he was going to end it all and was saved by the power of God to become a light in the darkness for others.
"Shame dies when we tell our stories in public places."
- Chad Belger

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

VITAMINS FOR THE MIND 1 Mar 19, 2023

The next time someone asks you what it takes to be a firefighter, be honest.
Instead of talking about certifications and classes, tell them what it really takes to do this job right. Tell them the truth.
It takes a commitment that very few jobs require because you have to accept that you are going to be responsible for life, not only for the citizens you serve but the lives of your brothers and sisters.
Yes, I said brothers and sisters because when you become a firefighter, you earn another family. Yes, I said earn because nothing will be given to you here. You will need to earn everything by building a good reputation as a worker and someone who cares about others.
It will require a very high level of fitness, strong work ethic and a desire to improve daily. You will hear about minimum standards but never think that’s enough; it’s not and will require maximum effort to perform in the environments we do.
You will miss birthdays, holidays, first steps, and last breaths; it’s part of the job. You will be dog tired and have to still give your best. Your mind and heart are going to change, and you won’t be the same person who started, and that’s ok because to change is to grow. You will grow here. This job can break you or make you the most grateful man in the world. That will be up to you.
The conversations you have around the kitchen table will be some of the best advice you’ll ever hear, and if you stay on long enough, some of the best you will give.
It’s a hard job that will always require hard work. Lazy people don’t do well here, so if that’s you, I wouldn’t do it. You’re not a good fit.
But if you’re willing to work hard with a spirit of humility and put the needs of others first, it will be the best decision you will ever make.
That’s what it takes to be a firefighter.

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

Josh Chase - REDEMPTION THROUGH GRACE Mar 16, 2023

Josh Chase talks about being broken in spirit and how his faith led him to fight for his family. This is an incredible story about redemption through grace and how God is always good, no matter how bad things may seem right now.
"I can't break.

The enemy can't take me from the master's hand. I'm the arrow in the bow, and the master has His hand on me.

He knows the target and will release me at the right time.

I can see the target but don't know the velocity which it will take to get me to reach it, but He does.

When He lets go, I will hit the mark. It will be just as he has planned it.

I'm being stretched like an arrow on a bow.

An arrow is at its strongest when it's stretched, right before it's released.

Then it can go further, faster."
- Josh Chase

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

Griffin Coiner: The Prayer of a Mustached Fireman. Mar 11, 2023

Blake talks with Griffin Coiner, the creator of 'Stache Salt Men's Grooming products. Griffin has unique story and a career in the fire service that didn't go quite like he thought it would. His story is a true display of faith and trust in the Lord. We hope you enjoy this as much as we did. If there's one thing that's certain, being a fireman runs deep in his heart, but following the Lord runs deeper! Find his stuff here: stachesalt.com

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

Bassel Ibrahim - Matt Magee - Logan Broberg Mar 10, 2023

Bassel, Matt, and Logan share their wisdom on completing a Smoke Diver Program and how the Smoke Diver Program has made them better firefighters and men. We talk about training, mindset, nutrition, and how you must do the work to find out what works for you.
This was one of my all-time favorite episodes!

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

John Spera - AURORA THEATER SHOOTING Mar 03, 2023

Lessons learned on 07/20/2012

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

Roger Sparks, Author of Warriors Creed Feb 21, 2023

I had a great conversation with Roger Sparks, author of Warriors Creed. We talked about mindset, training, post-traumatic growth, and giving our pain purpose. Roger thinks and lives on a deep level, and I am excited to share this episode with you.
Roger is a Retired MASTER SERGEANT who has served in the military as a Recon Marine and Air Force Pararescueman for over 25 years. Sparks is a recipient of the Silver Star, one of our nation’s highest awards for valor, for his actions during a fierce firefight with insurgents in Afghanistan’s Watapur Valley on Nov. 14, 2010. Sparks has transitioned from a career in special operations into the civilian world as an artist, author, and speaker. He lives with his family in Eagle River, Alaska.

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

Refined by Trial with Cody Trestrail Jan 04, 2023

After five years of tracking him down, I finally got Cody Trestrail to come on and talk about Faith, Family, and Fire! We talk about living by principles and having the courage to stick to your core values during adversity, KEEPING THE MISSION FIRST!

For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more!
Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level.

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