Jake sits down with veteran firefighter, captain, and founder of Crackyl Magazine, Kory Pearn, for a candid conversation about firefighter wellness, burnout, identity, leadership, and life beyond the firehouse. Drawing from more than two decades in the fire service and his own near-fatal health crisis, Kory shares the lessons that transformed his perspective on work, family, health, and personal responsibility. Together, Jake and Kory explore the challenges facing firefighter recruitment and retention, the importance of vulnerability and self-awareness, the realities of firefighter marriages, and why firefighters must intentionally build lives outside of the job. The discussion also dives into the philosophy behind Crackyl Magazine, how healthy cultures are built at the kitchen table, and why firefighters need to take ownership of their own wellness rather than waiting for someone else to solve the problem. Whether you're a new recruit, company officer, chief officer, or a firefighter approaching retirement, this episode offers practical insights into building a career that doesn't come at the expense of your health, family, or future. Kory Pearn is a veteran firefighter captain with more than 20 years of service and the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Crackyl Magazine, one of the fire service's leading publications focused on firefighter wellness, leadership, fitness, mental health, relationships, and career longevity. After experiencing a life-altering health crisis that nearly ended both his career and his life, Kory dedicated himself to helping firefighters better understand the challenges that exist beyond the fireground. Through Crackyl Magazine, speaking engagements, and his upcoming book Firefighter Sigma, he continues to advocate for healthier, more sustainable careers in the fire service. Kory shares how years of overcommitment, stress, and constantly taking on more responsibilities eventually led to a serious health crisis that forced him to completely reevaluate his priorities. While departments and leadership have responsibilities to create healthy environments, Kory argues that individual firefighters must ultimately take ownership of how they show up for work, their families, and themselves. The conversation explores how honesty, transparency, and vulnerability help build stronger relationships both inside and outside the firehouse. Kory explains that the goal isn't perfect balance but rather finding a sustainable rhythm that allows firefighters to succeed professionally while maintaining healthy relationships and personal fulfillment. Crackyl Magazine Firefighter Sigma by Kory Pearn HAIX USARigaku Analytical DevicesHazard Class PodcastThe Haz Mat Guys WebsiteThe Haz Mat Guys Podcast
