The Fire You Carry

Nole Lilley and Kevin Welsh
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Hosted by Nole and Kevin, two active-duty Los Angeles County Firemen with over a decade of service each, this podcast explores the fire we all carry within. Join them as they interview respected men and share lessons on how to be better husbands, fathers, and leaders. Drawing from the front lines, they tackle issues like trauma, fitness, and family life, providing universal principles for any man looking to stoke his inner fire and live with purpose. 

  1. 3 DAYS AGO

    248: Silence is Painful.

    We live in a world of constant consumption, where every spare second is filled with music, podcasts, social media, or videos. In this solo episode, Nole explores the vital and uncomfortable practice of being alone with our thoughts. He shares insights from a Harvard professor's video on the power of "boredom" to unlock creativity, introspection, and our ability to wrestle with life's big questions.  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 Nole an email: nolerltw@gmail.com Video referenced in the episode. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=orQKfIXMiA8 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

    18 min

  2. 3 NOV

    247: Perception, Integrity, & Hiding the Mop.

    What's your motivation? In the firehouse, there are a million "unwritten rules." From leaving "veto in the toilet" to making sure there's "water on the ground" after washing the rig, many tasks are done simply to prove they were done. In this episode, Nole and Kevin dive deep into this unique aspect of firehouse culture, exploring the line between maintaining perception and acting with true integrity. They discuss whether our actions are driven by a need for recognition or by a commitment to doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. It's a fun, insightful look at the traditions of the fire service and a challenging personal inventory for men everywhere. 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 Nole an email: nolerltw@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

    1h 1m

  3. 27 OCT

    246: Pressing Forward with Randy Rozzell.

    Randy Rozzell—22-year Navy SEAL veteran, former firefighter, and tactical combatives instructor—is back on the show! Since his last appearance on episode 219, Randy has written a powerful book called "Pressing Forward," a story of resilience that goes far beyond the battlefield. In this conversation, we dive deep into the lessons from his book and his life. Randy shares the heart behind his writing, explaining how a difficult upbringing and a demanding career forged the mindset he lives by today. We discuss practical ways to build mental toughness, the challenge of raising resilient kids in a comfortable world, and the origin story of the elite combatives program he developed for the SEAL teams. This episode is packed with actionable advice on how to face adversity, tackle the hard things in life, and, as Randy puts it, "Don't let the weakness win." Pressing Forward Audiobook. Pressing Forward Book. ImageStick 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 Nole an email: nolerltw@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

    1h 26m

  4. 20 OCT

    245: Safety Second with Jim Stitzinger

    In this thought-provoking episode, Nole and Kevin welcome their good friend, Pastor Jim Stitzinger, back to the show. They dive deep into a powerful concept from an article Jim wrote: Safety Second. This idea presents a revolutionary paradigm shift, challenging the common prayer to "keep us safe." Jim argues that when we make personal safety our ultimate priority, it can lead down a path of compromise and fear. Instead, the scriptures call us to pray for things like boldness, holiness, courage, and discernment. The conversation explores how this mindset applies directly to the lives of first responders, parents, and anyone striving to live a faith-driven life. They discuss the importance of being prepared for challenges, trusting in God's plan, and focusing on what truly matters: our character over our comfort and our holiness over our health. This is a must-listen for anyone looking to sharpen their prayer life and live with greater purpose and courage. Safety Second post by Pastor Jim https://jimstitzinger.com/uncategorized/safety-second-how-should-christians-pray/ Crossroads Community Church https://crossroadscommunitychurch.net/about/ Debrief on demand https://crossroadscommunitychurch.churchcenter.com/people/forms/1048142 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 Nole an email: nolerltw@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

    1h 11m

  5. 13 OCT

    244: The 4 Phases of Fatherhood

    In this solo episode, Kevin takes the helm while Nole is away and dives deep into a powerful framework for fatherhood from Jim Ramos of Men in the Arena. Whether you're a new dad or a seasoned grandfather, this episode provides a gut-check on where you are and where you're headed. Kevin breaks down the four distinct phases—Father Fidelis, Father Figure, Father Friend, and Father Forever—and connects them to the unique challenges faced by first responders. This is a must-listen for any man looking to be more intentional in his role as a father and build a lasting legacy. 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 Nole an email: nolerltw@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

    14 min

  6. 6 OCT

    243: Rick Cook: On Faith, Family, and Fatherhood

    In this powerful and personal episode, Kevin sits down with 20-year LA County Fire veteran, Captain Rick Cook. Kevin and Rick dive deep into what it truly means to be a "good dude"—a man whose character is defined not by his job title, but by his role as a husband and father. Rick shares profound wisdom from his 27-year marriage, the challenges and triumphs of raising children, and the incredible story of how his wife's loving intervention prompted him to slow down and leave one of the busiest fire stations in the county. From punk rock and the Navy to father-son fistfights and the "crock pot" theory of marriage, this conversation is packed with raw honesty, humor, and inspiration for every man trying to balance a demanding career with a thriving home 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 "Memories" by Dreamwake (Saxaphone Metalcore) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cq8p0pDKTKA Send Nole an email: nolerltw@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

    1h 23m

  7. 29 SEPT

    242: The Five-Year Interview with Kevin

    After a three-week hiatus, Kevin is back in the co-host chair! In honor of his return and the podcast's five-year anniversary, Nole turns the tables and interviews Kevin as if he were a guest on the show. The guys kick things off with personal updates, including Nole's restorative trip to Hume Lake and his journey of finding a new church for his family after being challenged by the podcast community. From there, they dive into a deep discussion about the last five years of "The Fire You Carry," their vision for its future, and their dream guests. Kevin opens up about the "fire he's carrying" right now—the drive to be a "Band One Dad" and connect with his kids as they navigate their middle school years. The conversation then shifts to the trials they're facing, with Kevin sharing his struggle of grappling with new physical limitations after his neck surgery and learning to find his identity outside of the intense physicality he's relied on for his entire life. It's a powerful conversation about growth, vulnerability, faith, and the future. 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 "Memories" by Dreamwake (Saxaphone Metalcore) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cq8p0pDKTKA Send Nole an email: nolerltw@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

    53 min

  8. 22 SEPT

    241: Why Did It Hurt So Much? Reaction to the Charlie Kirk Assassination, Featuring Jeff Lilley.

    In this powerful and reflective episode, Nole sits down with his father, Jeff Lilley, to process their deep, visceral reactions to the assassination of Charlie Kirk. They explore why this event stirred up such strong emotions for so many. The conversation delves into the complex emotions of anger, grief, and the desire for justice, while also examining the political polarization that has led to a moment where tragedy is celebrated by some and mourned by others. Ultimately, they ask the crucial question: How does an event like this become a catalyst for change, and what do we do now? 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 Nole an email: nolerltw@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

    1h 18m
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About

Hosted by Nole and Kevin, two active-duty Los Angeles County Firemen with over a decade of service each, this podcast explores the fire we all carry within. Join them as they interview respected men and share lessons on how to be better husbands, fathers, and leaders. Drawing from the front lines, they tackle issues like trauma, fitness, and family life, providing universal principles for any man looking to stoke his inner fire and live with purpose. 

Information

  • Creator
    Nole Lilley and Kevin Welsh
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2025
  • Episodes
    255
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 The Fire You Carry
  • Show Website
    The Fire You Carry

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