Beyond the Stretch

Our leaders message to the rank and file typically involves the future of the organization. But what about the now?

Continuing on with our ghosts content, Mike and Vinnie discuss a fire in Houston, Texas that resulted in the loss of two firefighters from Houston FD. Some good information can be learned, especially in structures that are commonly found throughout our response districts. The NIOSH report is here: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/fire/reports/face200013.html

We finish a shorter episode talking about ourselves a little bit. Leading off is the question, “What would you be doing if you weren’t a firefighter?”

The final episode of 2023 finds the two of us talking about the crazy new hiring processes departments are implementing in order to quickly fill their organization's ranks. Wrapping up 2023 talking about the hot topics of transfers, laterals, and abbreviated hiring. Happy New Year, and here's to a wonderful 2024.

Nothing sets the the tone for a shift war like some stolen pumpkin spice coffee creamer. But how do we end the absurd behaviors? Well, maybe buffaloes have the answer.

Chief Richard Ray joins Uncle Mike for the second consecutive year at the SC Fire-Rescue Conference. Chief Ray talks about his experience and perspective as a volunteer firefighter, which we often forget comprises the majority of firefighters in the USA. Uncle Mike and Chief Ray finish off by talking about recruitment and retention in today's work culture.

Live from the 2023 SC Fire-Rescue Conference, Uncle Mike is joined by two truck company hard-chargers. Both Ethan Tucker and Ryan Murphy, who happen to be adjust instructors for Truck Co. Ops, share their passion for truck work as they discuss their specific truck company related courses they presented at the conference. They talk about their motivation for developing the instructional content, and answer what job duties they love most on the fire ground.