Fire Engineering Podcast Network

Fire Engineering Podcast

Fire Engineering Magazine’s been devoted to the training interests of firefighters since 1877. Listen to our lineup of podcasts featuring hosts from around the fire service.

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21 episodes
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Avg 56 min
English

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#2360
Saturday · 49 min
The Technology of 9/11: Where We Are Today
In honor of the 25th anniversary of 9/11, Fire Service Data and Tech Talk host Eddie Buchanan welcomes Michael Varney, director of stakeholder collaboration at the First Responder Network Authority, about how responder communications and technology have evolved since 2001. Varney discusses priority access, resilience, and on‑demand deployables, plus the growing role of geospatial tools, indoor locating, and firefighter tracking in GPS‑denied environments. Technical, operational, and planning insights are paired with reflections on how 9/11 reshaped the service and the continuing mission to keep responders safer and more effective. The episode includes operational tips, resources, and planning guidance. This podcast is brought to you by Esri: https://www.esri.com/en-us/home
#2359
Friday · 1 hr 17 min
Understanding Technical Rescue Operations
On this episode of The Training Officer, host Dave McGlynn welcomes Kelly Lemmons and Anthony Chen to discuss technical rescue operations, including rope training. They explain how modern technical rescue requires shifting from static procedures to dynamic, critical thinking, balancing evolving industry standards with foundational skills.
#2358
Tuesday · 52 min
The Importance of Closing the Experience Gap
On this episode of Fire and Training, Paul Watlington joins host Douglas Cline to talk about officer development in today’s fire service. They discuss the reality of younger officer ranks, what “experience” really means, and how departments can close training gaps without lowering standards. Watlington and Cline emphasize the importance of being a student first: Seek conferences, regional courses, and peer networks. They share examples from station training boards, captain/lieutenant transitions, and organizational programs that give firefighters ownership of development.
#2353
August 31 · 58 min
Lightning Risks, Outside-In Fires, and Team Discipline
In this episode of Talking Tactics, hosts Dave Polikoff, Sam Villani, and Robert "RJ" James break down real‑world firefighting lessons: outside‑in fires, disciplined 360s, and why the first‑in officer must “call the play.” They discuss staging engine/truck resource and the importance of maintaining a team‑based mentality to stop strip and townhouse fires. The conversation also gets into deadly lightning‑induced basement fires tied to corrugated stainless steel gas tubing: how lightning can perforate piping, ignite concealed spaces, and why immediate gas shutoff and concealed‑space checks are critical.
#2357
August 28 · 1 hr 4 min
Getting Analytical on the Fireground
Why is data-driven decision making so critical? Sean Duffy joins host Eric Dreiman to discuss the importance of search at fire scenes, data, and the analytical side of firefighting on this episode of Hooks & Hoses. Duffy shares his thoughts on his recent Fire Engineering article, “Fireground Decision Making: The Data‑Driven Edge for Search.” He draws on Firefighter Rescue Survey findings, FSRI research, and frontline experience. The conversation also touches on reasons why traditional occupancy cues can't be trusted. The guest and host share advice on developing search policies and training and communicating clear progress reports.
#2356
August 27 · 1 hr
Building Applied Knowledge on the Fireground
Host Christopher Naum discusses the fireground blueprint: how building construction, occupancy, and predictability drive risk, tactics, and safety. He reviews recurring summer incidents and line‑of‑duty deaths and the need to improve building literacy. He also looks at the following critical reads: the fireground, the building, the compartment, and the company. Naum outlines practical steps including curbside conversations, post-incident walkthroughs, increased training, and walking lecture tours and roundtables for building applied knowledge.
#2355
August 26 · 52 min
Women in Fire International Conference 2026
On this episode of Women in Fire, host Lisa Baker speaks with a panel to discuss the upcoming 2026 Women in Fire International Conference, in Austin, Texas. The conference will offer specialized training and networking for fire service professionals. The members of the panel emphasize that the environment allows attendees to drop their guards, build hands-on skills without fear of judgment, and establish mentorships with peers from around the United States. The conference also welcomes male firefighters and officers seeking to support their teams and improve department mechanics. The Women in Fire Panel Retired Lieutenant Heidi Simon from South Metro, Colorado Retired Lieutenant WIllie Saulsberry from Gainesville, Florida Firefighter/Paramedic Brooke Sims from Aurora, Colorado Women in Fire Trustee Megan Saylors
#2354
August 26 · 51 min
How to Align ICS and HICS in a Crisis
On this episode of The Humpday Hangout, Frank Ricci sits down with Scott Martus to discuss his Fire Engineering article, "Two Systems, One Mission: How to Align ICS and HICS in a Crisis." Martus explores the critical relationship between the fire service and healthcare systems, highlighting how sponsor hospitals, medical direction, and hospital emergency management teams can serve as force multipliers during emergencies. He uses real examples to show what works and what doesn't. Ricci and Martus emphasize practical fixes: Empower medical dispatch triage, use nurse navigation and third-party call centers to reduce low-acuity engine responses, and align prehospital strategy with capacity to improve outcomes. Link to Scott Martus’ article, Two Systems, One Mission: How to Align ICS and HICS in a Crisis: https://www.fireengineering.com/firefighting/fire-ems/two-systems-one-mission-how-to-align-ics-and-hics-in-a-crisis/
#2344
August 25 · 15 min
Responding to the Evolving Fire Environment
From modern construction and synthetic fuels to lithium-ion battery hazards, today’s fireground looks different. In this episode, Keith Stakes and Meghan Maloney of UL Research Institutes' Fire Safety Research Institute discuss what recent research is revealing about search, suppression, ventilation, and exposure reduction. Learn how the Fire Safety Research Institute works with the fire service to turn research findings into practical training to support more informed fireground decision-making. Article link: https://www.fireengineering.com/fire-safety/enhancing-firefighter-health-and-safety-in-the-evolving-built-environment/ For more information about the Fire Safety Research Institute: https://s.ul.org/4g1syoH
#2351
August 24 · 1 hr 3 min
The Sacred Kitchen Table
Firehouse kitchens have always served as a hub where firefighters solve problems, share stories, and pass down institutional knowledge. On this episode of The Backstep Boys, hosts Ron Kanterman and Tom Aurnhammer examine the subtle forces shaping modern firehouse culture. They focus on the critical role of informal leaders: These include the experienced crew members and senior firefighters who maintain standards, mentor incoming probationary members, and preserve operational traditions without holding official rank.
#2350
August 23 · 54 min
Why Data-Driven Decision Making on the Fireground Is So Important
Hosts Jason Hoevelmann and Jim Silvernail welcome Sean Duffy for a focused discussion on data-driven fireground decision making on this episode of Tactical Impact. They break down critical timelines and the reality of survivability in heavily involved structures. The panel also discusses why search should be a default action regardless of whether victims have been reported.
#2349
August 22 · 52 min
From Kid Explorer to National Fire Investigator
In this episode of Point of Origin, hosts Billy Hux and Bobby Drake sit down with veteran fire investigator Nick Palumbo Jr. Palumbo looks back on his days as a 14-year-old explorer, his first ride-along investigating fires with his father, and how he got his professional start. He recounts memorable cases, discusses courtroom risks, and shares leadership lessons as well as his father's advice: Build your own reputation without disrespecting those who taught you.
#2348
August 20 · 56 min
An Inside Look at Hosting, Writing, and Teaching
On this episode of The Command Post, hosts Rick Lasky and John Salka speak from their own experiences writing for Fire Engineering, hosting a podcast, and teaching at FDIC. They give advice on picking a topic, building credibility, and tips for submitting class proposals. The hosts warn against using AI and share thoughts on classroom etiquette and the power of showing up to build relationships.
#2347
August 18 · 50 min
Considering a Fire Service Career Change? Here's What to Think About
On this episode of Two Vollies and a Guest, Micah Hydeman joins hosts Jerry Knapp and Tim Pillsworth to talk about career changes. Hydeman details his career move from captain to tailboard firefighter and shares how to evaluate a change in departments. He covers family and insurance risks, financial changes, union agreements, and staffing realities. The panel also details the mental and cultural shifts involved in the transition from an officer role back to a crew position.
#2346
August 18 · 48 min
How to Maintain On-Scene Accountability
Chief Doug Myers from the Berrien Springs-Oronoko (MI) Fire Department joins host Tom Merrill for a conversation about emergency scene accountability for this episode of The Professional Volunteer Fire Department. They touch on practical approaches to establishing and maintaining accountability from the moment the firefighters arrive until the incident is under control. They also look at the system, procedures, and leadership responsibilities that help ensure every firefighter goes home safely.
#2345
August 17 · 1 hr 17 min
What Makes Chiefs Lose Sleep?
Chief Aaron Hummel, of the Boise (ID) Fire Department, joins host Anthony Kastros on this episode of Command Show to break down frontline command. They get into practical size‑up, incident command pitfalls, accountability, standard operating guidelines, and the “functional five” hazards. They discuss regional growth, joint academies, and promotional testing, as well as auto-aid mechanics and building a battalion-chief academy. This podcast is brought to you by Tablet Command. www.tabletcommand.com/get-started-lp
#2343
August 15 · 1 hr 7 min
Mickey Farrell and Bob Pressler Talk Fireground Coordination
Operational discipline, clear communication, and understanding: That's what fireground coordination is about. In this episode of Generation Engine, host Anthony Rowett welcomes seasoned fire service veterans Mickey Farrell and Bob Pressler to break down the mechanics of a unified response. They explore how crucial decisions are made long before crossing the threshold, shift-change size-ups, monitoring early radio transmissions, and assessing company staffing levels. They also address the essential dynamics among engine, truck, and rescue operations, highlighting why finding and isolating the seat of the fire takes priority, how to properly execute tactical directives such as "staying at the door," and the critical need to identify preplanned areas of refuge.
#2342
August 14 · 54 min
Practical Fueling and Hydration for Shift Life
Firefighting doesn't fit a standard 9-to-5 mold, and standard dietary advice often fails on shift. On this episode of Perspectives on Leadership, host Stephen Shaw welcomes registered dietician Megan Lautz to talk about tackling real-world nutritional challenges first responders face. They emphasize smart, actionable habits, such as learning how caffeine affects fluid levels, why targeted sugar in an oral rehydration solution speeds recovery, and how simple swaps can replace heavy pre-workout supplements.
#2341
August 10 · 1 hr 12 min
Remembering Captain Ben Lauren: Learning from Line-of-Duty Deaths
This episode of Tony Carroll's Mayday Monday features Brandon Cory, a sheriff's special rescue deputy and training officer, as he opens up about the March 13, 2020, duplex fire in Forsyth Township, Michigan, which claimed the life of 23-year-old Ben Lauren. Cory describes the incident walking listeners through dispatch, arrival, conditions, and the high-risk collapse that took place. The discussion also includes a focus on practical and critical lessons learned.
#2340
August 8 · 1 hr 5 min
The Similarities Between Parenthood and The Fire Service
In this episode of Fireground Strategies, Deputy Chief Mike Shaw from the Wallingford (CT) Fire Department joins hosts Anthony Avillo and Jim Duffy to reflect on his recovery journey after suffering a severe injury. Shaw details his time advancing through the ranks and shares his core leadership philosophy: He treats fire service command like parenthood. He explains how, like parenting, effective leadership requires applying rules consistently while tailoring guidance to individual personalities and goals, setting firm expectations, and providing the tools and advocacy the crew needs.

Showing 1–20 of 21 episodes