The Fire You Carry

Latest Episodes:

232: Growing Up in Mongolia & What the Church Got Wrong During Covid, with Ryan Shook Jul 21, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Fire You Carry podcast, hosts Nole and Ryan Shook delve into the profound impact of COVID-19 on faith communities. They explore how the pandemic challenged traditional church engagement and ultimately where it failed, and discuss the struggles of reconnecting with faith in a post-pandemic world. Ryan shares his unique perspective, drawing from his experiences growing up in Mongolia and his journey through ministry and firefighting. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about faith, resilience, and the search for community in uncertain times.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/911-memorial-climb-tickets-1302529443629?aff=oddtdtcreator

Big thank you to My Epic and Facedown Records for the use of their song "Hail" in our podcast!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dz2RZThURTU&ab_channel=FacedownRecords

Pastor Joby Martin, Act Like Men Conference.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_CfMnG2Nll8&t=1640s&ab_channel=CrosspointCityChurch

Pastor Jack Hibs, Who Are Those Who Can Never Be Saved?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dWDTxZ5y0XU&ab_channel=RealLifewithJackHibbs

Send us an email: thefireupprogram@gmail.com

Sign up for a class at The Fire Up Program!
https://www.fireupprogram.com/programs
MyZone facility code for The Fire You Carry: CALIFUS001
Get $60 off a MZ-Switch Heart Rate Monitor!
https://buy.myzone.org/?lang=enUS&voucher=CALIFUS001-60
The Fire Up Progam video.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I__ErPW46Ec&t=12s&ab_channel=FireUpProgram
The Fire You Carry Instagram.
https://www.instagram.com/thefireyoucarry/
Donate to The Fire Up Program.
https://www.fireupprogram.com/donate
The Fire Up Program Instagram.
https://www.instagram.com/fireup_program/
Kevin's Instagram.
https://www.instagram.com/kevinpwelsh/?hl=en
Nole's Instagram.
https://www.instagram.com/nolelilley/?hl=en

231: Ben Steele's Journey: Missionary, Marine Officer & Creative Media Entrepreneur Jul 14, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Fire You Carry podcast, Nole and Kevin are joined by Ben Steele, a former Marine officer turned entrepreneur. The conversation explores Ben's journey from military service to the world of filmmaking and marketing, discussing the challenges of leadership, the transition to civilian life, and the importance of maintaining physical and mental health. Ben shares insights on identity shifts, the value of diverse experiences, and the necessity of finding purpose after leaving structured environments like the military and religious institutions. Ben Steele breaks down the importance of planning and time management, and how these practices contribute to his success as a self-employed individual. He reflects on navigating personal beliefs and relationships, particularly in the context of leaving the LDS church. Ben shares insights into his creative projects with Stag Media, including collaborations with various brands and his passion for storytelling. The discussion also delves into the prevalent culture of nicotine use in the fire service, contrasting personal experiences with broader societal trends. Finally, Ben recounts his travel experiences in the Galapagos Islands and emphasizes the significance of strategic partnerships in business.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/911-memorial-climb-tickets-1302529443629?aff=oddtdtcreator

Big thank you to My Epic and Facedown Records for the use of their song "Hail" in our podcast!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dz2RZThURTU&ab_channel=FacedownRecords

Stag Media on Instagram.

https://www.instagram.com/stagmediacreative/

Stag Media

https://stagmedia.us/

Send us an email: thefireupprogram@gmail.com

230: Why Your Jeans Matter Jul 07, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Fire You Carry podcast, Nole dives into the world of selvedge denim, exploring its history, craftsmanship, and the personal significance of quality clothing. He contrasts selvedge denim with modern mass-produced jeans, emphasizing the unique character and stories that come with each pair. This episode may not seem to fit into what we normally do here on the podcast, but stick with it, it comes around at the end.

Big thank you to My Epic and Facedown Records for the use of their song "Hail" in our podcast!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dz2RZThURTU&ab_channel=FacedownRecords

Send us an email: thefireupprogram@gmail.com

229: Kevin Defeats a Woman on the Stairmaster & God Tells Nole to Man Up. Jun 30, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Fire You Carry podcast, hosts Nole and Kevin explore a variety of topics ranging from the impact of marketing on consumer behavior to personal fitness challenges and the importance of community. They share personal anecdotes about their fitness journeys, discuss the emotional and mental challenges associated with nicotine withdrawal, and reflect on the significance of having deep conversations with God. The episode also highlights the importance of pushing personal boundaries, embracing emotions, and the joy of shared experiences, particularly in fitness and community events.

Big thank you to My Epic and Facedown Records for the use of their song "Hail" in our podcast!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dz2RZThURTU&ab_channel=FacedownRecords

R.A.D. Cast

https://open.spotify.com/show/5gsmnIbmxvOOQTmBJRcmkN?si=0b6e288525904e8b

Prep and Defend

https://open.spotify.com/show/24HVnhOJq6GlewUfGuAM6R?si=b519ba28fa864b0d

Ben Fuller playing "Black Sheep" in the woods.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yTCdrfyzUfg&ab_channel=TruthfulSessions

Vulfmon - "Valk"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZqI4vyWJqU&ab_channel=Vulf

Stoneland - by Rogue

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MhQlNwxn5oo&ab_channel=RogueFitness

228: Resilient Another Day with Greg Rudiger (R.A.D.) Jun 23, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Greg Rudiger shares his journey through the fire service, the impact of family legacy, and his transition to a new calling focused on resilience and authenticity. He discusses the challenges of PTSD, the importance of emotional connection, and the birth of his training company, R.A.D., which aims to empower others in the fire service and beyond. In this conversation, Greg Rudiger shares his insights on post-traumatic stress, emphasizing that it is not a disorder but an injury of the brain. He discusses the cumulative effects of trauma, the importance of acknowledging one's struggles, and the need for support systems. Greg highlights the significance of breathwork in his healing journey and redefines resilience as the ability to withstand life's challenges. He also shares his experiences in creating a new health and safety position within the fire service, focusing on wellness and mental health. Greg also shares insights on the importance of understanding the 'why' behind wellness practices, particularly in breathwork and emotional health. He emphasizes the significance of vulnerability and emotional acknowledgment in building resilience. The discussion also covers practical techniques for relaxation, such as box breathing and gratitude practices, and how these can be integrated into daily life for improved mental health and well-being.

Big thank you to My Epic and Facedown Records for the use of their song "Hail" in our podcast!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dz2RZThURTU&ab_channel=FacedownRecords

R.A.D. Website

https://www.resilientanotherday.com/

227: When Strength Fails Jun 16, 2025

Show notes

In this heartfelt episode, Nole shares his personal struggles with mental health, vulnerability, and the journey of healing. He discusses the challenges of quitting nicotine, the impact of past traumas, and the importance of faith and community support in overcoming difficulties. Nole emphasizes the need for honesty and vulnerability in sharing experiences, encouraging listeners to seek help and lean on their faith during tough times.

Big thank you to My Epic and Facedown Records for the use of their song "Hail" in our podcast!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dz2RZThURTU&ab_channel=FacedownRecords

PRESIDENT - "In the Name of the Father"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S_MijiGiQNI&ab_channel=PRESIDENT

Vulfmon - "Valk"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZqI4vyWJqU&ab_channel=Vulf

Ben Fuller - "Walk Through Fire"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PylL5YccQWE&ab_channel=BenFullerVEVO

226: What is Your Calling? Jun 09, 2025

Show notes

In this episode, Kevin explores the concept of calling, distinguishing it from career, family, and causes. He emphasizes the importance of understanding one's true calling and reflects on personal identity and purpose. The conversation encourages listeners to ponder their own calling and what they want to be known for, while also recognizing the challenges that come with self-discovery.

Big thank you to My Epic and Facedown Records for the use of their song "Hail" in our podcast!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dz2RZThURTU&ab_channel=FacedownRecords

225: Addiction, What Nole is Quitting & Why. (No, it's not Caffeine) May 26, 2025

Show notes

In this conversation, Kevin and Nole delve into their personal struggles with caffeine and nicotine addiction, exploring the impact of these substances on their lives and relationships. They discuss the challenges of self-control, the importance of honesty in marriage, and the complexities of negotiating addiction with loved ones. The dialogue emphasizes the need for self-awareness and the journey towards quitting addictive substances, highlighting the balance between moderation and abstinence. In this episode, Nole and Kevin also discuss personal challenges related to nicotine addiction and fitness, share financial lessons learned from past hardships, and emphasize the importance of setting financial goals. They explore the significance of the reasons behind a desire to quit something negative and why having the right one(s) is important.

Big thank you to My Epic and Facedown Records for the use of their song "Hail" in our podcast!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dz2RZThURTU&ab_channel=FacedownRecords

224: Hormonal Health, Low Testosterone and the Fireproof Wellness Approach with Ian Meyers May 12, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Fire You Carry podcast, Ian Meyers shares his personal journey through mental health struggles, including depression and PTSD, and how he found recovery through hormonal health and lifestyle changes. He discusses the importance of seeking help, the role of his wife in encouraging him to get his hormone levels checked, and the development of Fireproof Wellness, a program designed to support firefighters in achieving better mental and physical health. The conversation emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to wellness, combining therapy, hormonal health, and lifestyle modifications. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of holistic health, emphasizing the interconnectedness of sleep, diet, exercise, and mental well-being. They explore the role of supplements, the significance of repairing relationships, and preventative health measures, particularly in the context of firefighting. The discussion also highlights the benefits of sauna use for recovery and the principles of functional medicine, which aim to address root causes rather than just symptoms. The speakers share personal experiences and insights on managing testosterone levels, the challenges faced by firefighters, and the importance of communication within families. Ian also highlights the alarming statistics regarding firefighter mortality and the need for programs that address both physical and mental health. The discussion also covers testosterone therapy, its alternatives, and the significance of recognizing early signs of health issues. Ian advocates for a holistic approach to health and wellness, aiming to empower firefighters to take charge of their well-being.

Big thank you to My Epic and Facedown Records for the use of their song "Hail" in our podcast!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dz2RZThURTU&ab_channel=FacedownRecords

Fireproof Wellness. https://www.fireproofwellness.com/

Fireproof Wellness Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/fireproofwellness/

223: Chasing Equilibrium: An Ongoing Search for Balance May 05, 2025

Show notes

In this conversation, Kevin and Nole discuss their recent experiences during spring break, focusing on family adventures, culinary delights, and the emotional connections they feel in their faith journeys. They explore the importance of community, the balance between routine and spirituality, and the need for mindfulness in their daily lives. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of being present and the challenges of tracking progress in personal growth. In this conversation, Nole and Kevin explore various themes related to fitness, motivation, personal struggles, and spirituality. They discuss the importance of building muscle for longevity, the balance between fitness goals and motivation, and the challenges of navigating personal struggles while seeking community support. The conversation also touches on the impact of media on mental health and the significance of seeking God in daily life.

Big thank you to My Epic and Facedown Records for the use of their song "Hail" in our podcast!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dz2RZThURTU&ab_channel=FacedownRecords

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