Firefighter Nation Podcast Network’s

Mental Health Monthly: Triumph Through Tragedy: John Walters’ Journey from FDNY Rescue 1 to Resilience and Renewal

In the latest episode of Mental Health Monthly, Dan DeGryse and Chris Muscle sit down with John Walters III, retired FDNY firefighter, and former chief of the Port Washington (NY) Fire Department. During their discussion, the three explore the guest’s journey through devastating injury, personal loss, and rebuilding life after tragedy. Walters shares candid insights about the July 2006 accident that led to the loss of his right leg and severe challenges with his left, the emotional toll of divorce, and the complexities of parenting while adapting to his new reality. More than a story of hardship, his message focuses on resilience, peer support, and the strength found in connection. From navigating hospital stays and phantom pain to finding purpose with organizations like Sons of the Flag, Walters embodies how to face adversity head-on without letting it define his identity.  
This podcast is brought to you by FirehouseFurniture.com. 

Beyond the Headlines: Leadership, Change, and Building Resilience in the Fire Service

Beyond the Headlines: Leadership, Change, and Building Resilience in the Fire Service
In this episode of Beyond the Headlines, host Chris Marella sits down with  Nicholle Brock, firefighter, author, and leadership coach. They talk about the culture shifts reshaping today’s fire service. Brock brings honest stories from the line: the tough calls, the lessons learned, and the moments that redefine leadership. She opens up about accountability and mentorship, and she talks about what inspired her to write B.R.I.C.K. by B.R.I.C.K.: Building Resiliency in Chaos and Kindness by Being Resilient in Conflict and Kinship. Together, they explore how leaders can support firefighters facing unseen struggles while they listen better and bridge generational gaps.Brought to you by Firehouse Furniture: https://www.FirehouseFurniture.com and Unimac: https://www.AllianceLaundry.com/fire

APS Radio: Firefighters and the Fight for Rest

APS Radio: Firefighters and the Fight for Rest   
Firefighters are built to push through anything, but at what cost? In this episode of APS Radio, host Jim Burneka sits down with Dr. Kellie O’Dare, executive director of the Second Alarm Project and deputy executive director at UCF RESTORES, to break down the real impact of the extended firefighter workweek. From chronic sleep deprivation and PTSD to burnout, recruitment, and family life, Dr. O’Dare explains why it’s time the fire service rethinks the 56-hour standard and moves toward healthier, evidence-based shift models like the 24/72. The conversation dives into the science behind sleep, the culture that stigmatizes rest, and the growing movement toward a “fourth platoon” workweek that prioritizes recovery and resilience.
Brought to you by Firehouse Furniture: https://www.FirehouseFurniture.com and Unimac: https://www.AllianceLaundry.com/fire

Product Spotlight: How Home Fire Sprinklers Save Lives and Protect Firefighters

Product Spotlight: How Home Fire Sprinklers Save Lives and Protect Firefighters For the latest Product Spotlight, we welcome Peg Paul, of the Home Fire Sprinkler Coalition, for a robust conversation about the crucial role home fire sprinklers play in modern fire safety. Over time, home construction and homes’ contents have evolved. And today’s fires today spread faster, becoming deadly in as little as two minutes. The discussion touches on the ways sprinklers don’t just protect residents, including vulnerable populations and pets, they also significantly reduce the dangers firefighters face, lowering exposure to toxic smoke and carcinogens. The guest explains the coalition’s unique educational tools, like the Impact Tool and a virtual reality experience designed to support fire officials and code decision makers in advocating for sprinkler requirements in new home construction. She highlights how developer incentives make sprinklers more affordable and practical while emphasizing community risk reduction. This discussion offers firefighters, policymakers, and the public essential insights about why investing in home fire sprinklers is critical to life safety and firefighter health. 

Igniting the Shift Within: Strategies to Battle Stress, Conquer Cortisol, and Maximize Detox

Igniting the Shift Within: Strategies to Battle Stress, Conquer Cortisol, and Maximize Detox
 
Host David Dachinger welcomes Dr. Angela Mazza, from the Metabolic Center for Wellness. They discuss the endocrine challenges firefighters face and the ways these challenges go beyond putting out fires. They’re also about managing stress, cortisol levels, and the impact of occupational toxins. The discussion covers the ways late-night calls impact firefighters’ recovery and energy, as well as the hidden dangers of PFAS that can disrupt hormone balance. Mazza shares practical strategies for detoxification, stress reduction, boosting testosterone, and managing obesity.
Brought to you by Firehouse Furniture ( FirehouseFurniture.com ) and Unimac (AllianceLaundry.com/fire )
Igniting the Shift Within:https://www.podpage.com/igniting/
Dr. Mazza’s Links: Website: metaboliccenterforwellness.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063529392493Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/metaboliccenterforwellness/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-angela-mazza-743796bb/
Listen/Watch the full episode:https://www.facebook.com/firefighternationhttps://www.youtube.com/@FirefighterNationHQhttps://www.firefighternation.com/podcasts/

We Can’t Believe They Gave Us a Show: Inside the Firefighter Health & Wellness Conference

We Can’t Believe They Gave Us a Show: Inside the Firefighter Health & Wellness Conference
In episode 12 of We Can’t Believe They Gave Us a Show, hosts Jim Burneka and Nick Magoteaux discuss this year’s Firefighter Health & Wellness Conference, happening October 15-17 at the Greene County Expo Center in Xenia, Ohio. This isn’t your average conference—it’s a combination of hard-hitting presentations from experts like Dena Ali, who tackles the real causes of firefighter suicide, and Rick Cheatham, whose incredible journey of resilience sets the tone for the event. Attendees will hear about cutting-edge neurofeedback therapy, cancer prevention, peer support strategies, and the benefits of a 24/72 shift schedule. In addition to an impressive speaker lineup the conference will offer unique experiences like equine therapy, duckpin bowling, axe throwing, and a raffle for a handcrafted barrel sauna. 
Brought to you by Firehouse Furniture ( FirehouseFurniture.com ) and Unimac (AllianceLaundry.com/fire )

Fueling Fire: Mastering Struggle Meals, Fast Food, and On-the-Go Fueling

Fueling Fire: Mastering Struggle Meals, Fast Food, and On-the-Go Fueling  
 In this episode of Fueling Fire, dietitian Megan Lautz breaks down practical nutrition strategies designed specifically for first responders juggling unpredictable shifts and high-stress jobs. She introduces the concept of "struggle meals"—quick, portable options like fast food, frozen meals, and go bag snacks that serve as reliable nutrition backups when you have limited time and energy. Lautz offers realistic advice on choosing high-protein, high-fiber fast-food options from places like Chipotle and Chick-fil-A,  and explains how freezer meals and meal prep companies can support sustained energy during demanding shifts. She also emphasizes the importance of properly stocked go packed with durable, nutrient-rich snacks that help first responders avoid unhealthy binges after delayed meals. Lautz also shares insights on managing caffeine and sugar intake. She highlights how tailored nutrition can reduce injuries and boost performance on the job.
Brought to you by Firehouse Furniture ( FirehouseFurniture.com ) and Unimac (AllianceLaundry.com/fire )

Mental Health Monthly: A Year-Round Observance of Suicide Prevention in the Fire Service

Mental Health Monthly: A Year-Round Observance of Suicide Prevention in the Fire Service
In this episode of Mental Health Monthly, hosts Dan DeGryse and Chris Muscle confront the tough realities of suicide prevention in the fire service, stressing that awareness can’t be limited to September’s official observance of the struggle. Drawing from personal experiences and hard data, they highlight the urgent need for ongoing education on suicide prevention, intervention, and postvention. They challenge departments to embed mental health training starting in the academy and to foster open conversations that dismantle stigma. This means at the station, among peers, and at home. Throughout their candid discussion, they explore protective factors like camaraderie, purpose, and problem-solving that strengthen resilience. This episode calls on fire service leaders and members to normalize mental health talks, prioritize education annually, and support each other proactively.
 
Brought to you by Firehouse Furniture ( FirehouseFurniture.com ) and Unimac (AllianceLaundry.com/fire )

Igniting the Shift Within: Ditch the Drama and Fight Fire with Focus

Igniting the Shift Within: Ditch the Drama and Fight Fire with Focus 
In this episode of Igniting the Shift Within, host David Dachinger speaks with guest Greg Kruger, founder and leadership coach at Forgotten Truth Coaching. Kruger specializes in the connection between neurology and physiology. They discuss the crucial role of language under pressure, especially for firefighters on the front lines. They also explore how the words you choose can influence not only your communication but also the outcomes of high-stress situations. Listen to learn how to master your breath so that you can directly influence your nervous system and emotional state. Discover the power of “choice” vs. “obligation” and how shifting your language can foster clearer connections with your team. To access the breathwork Kruger speaks about in this episode, go to insighttimer.com/gregkruger, and start with “You Are the Answer.”

APS Radio: Inside the Firefighter Cancer Initiative

APS Radio: Inside the Firefighter Cancer Initiative
In this episode of APS Radio, Jim Burneka sits down with Dr. Alberto Caban-Martinez, professor of public health sciences at the University of Miami. Dr. Caban-Martinez discusses how the Firefighter Cancer Initiative (FCI) came to be and what type of research he would like to focus on in the future. Dr. Caban-Martinez also shares the findings on the University of Miami’s electric vehicle firefighter study. Lastly, Dr. Caban-Martinez discusses the International Fire Service Cancer Symposium. More information on the Firefighter Cancer Initiative can be found here: https://umiamihealth.org/en/sylvester-comprehensive-cancer-center/research/firefighter-cancer-initiative