National Fire Radio Jeremy Donch and Robert Ridley

24 years on the job, Tim Nagim is one of three most senior men within the Escambia, FL Fire Rescue Department. This is something that Tim takes very seriously and in fact, welcomes the challenge of it each day. His commitment to the job is fiercely guarded by his work ethic and daily demeanor. Tim is a man who knows where to be and where to fit in long before he is asked to do so. Such a presence requires years of hard work and understanding the importance of experience and knowledge. He strongly believes in the long cuts - shorts cuts do not have a place in the fire service. Working with firefighters and officers that are junior to his seniority presents challenges that sometimes requires a unique approach. His willingness to listen and mentor is done many days within the garden, a "safe space" where anything goes and most problems can be solved. Tim has great love for the job and his approach is becoming more unique on a job where experience and true senior men are lacking. Tim exemplifies what a senior man is and anyone who has had the opportunity to work with him, be mentored by him or just had a conversation with him knows the value and commitment he shares because, frankly, it's just who he is.

In this episode, Pip interviews Kevyn from Project Fire Buddies, an organization that aims to bring positivity and support to children with cancer or critical illnesses. They discuss the importance of off-duty activities and the impact they can have on firefighters' lives. They also talk about their experience at FDIC and the cutthroat nature of trade shows. Kevin shares his journey into the emergency services and how Project Fire Buddies started. They emphasize the significance of creating more good days for these children and the positive impact it has on everyone involved. Project FireBuddies is an organization that aims to create positive memories for children with illnesses and their families. They provide support and resources to help these children make lasting memories, even in the face of terminal illnesses. The organization focuses on making a difference in the local community, with chapters in different fire departments across the country. They strive for transparency and ensure that a high percentage of donations go directly to the cause. Project FireBuddies aims to build relationships with families and provide them with the support they need. Because, what you do off the job, MATTERS!!!!

Top Floor Tactics Episode 27. The Standard by Jeremy Donch and Robert Ridley

Hortons and Hunt is made up of three Hortons, Jesse, Micah and their father Curtis along with their long time friend and mentor Bryon Hunt. Located in the Nevada area, they realized that realistic fire training was in strong demand. The creation of Hortons and Hunt Training Associates was to deliver specific, real world training focusing on the basics, getting away from the industry’s “whiz bang” new flavor of the day. A core belief in the true basics parallels the brothers’ love for rolling on mats. In jujitsu, the details matter - small things like hand placement, technique and mindset drive Jesse and Micah to perfect each movement so that they become a master of their craft. Both brothers challenge each other, pushing one another to better themselves daily. Part of their passion is to share their own experiences and knowledge on their podcast, the Undisclosed Agents Podcast which talks about the job with guests who bring their own unique story to their show. Their constant push to better themselves and the job is evident by their hard work and willingness to push boundaries. Like their search class titled “The Finest Hour”, these brothers along with their partners are working hard to ensure they match the phrase in each aspect of the job. Everyone should have their “Finest Hour”.

In this episode, Pip and Ryan Conley discuss the importance of reducing cancer risks in the fire service and the need for improved gear and training. They highlight the challenges faced by firefighters, including the use of gear that contains carcinogens and the lack of awareness about the risks. Ryan shares his experience as a firefighter and his journey to create Carna Bunker Gear, a risk reduction tool that mimics the weight and thermal capabilities of gear without the associated risks. They also discuss the need for cultural change and the ongoing discussions within the fire service to address these issues. The conversation covers the importance of reducing exposure to carcinogens in the fire service and the need for proper decontamination practices. It emphasizes the risks firefighters face from both known and unknown chemicals and the need for education and awareness. The conversation also discusses the benefits of wearing long sleeve shirts, washing gear, and taking sleep and nutrition seriously. The creation of training gear that allows firefighters to train without exposing themselves to harmful substances is highlighted as a solution to reduce exposure and extend the life of operational gear. In this final part of the conversation, Ryan and Pip discuss the importance of cleaning SCBAs after fires and how PFAS has become a gateway conversation for cancer risk reduction. They also talk about their love for good food. Because, what you do off the job, MATTERS!!!

Jeremy and Mickey sit down together on the porch where the conversation revolves around the concept of firefighter IQ and the importance of deep understanding and thinking in the fire service. They discuss the need for firefighters to go beyond just performing repetitive tasks and instead focus on developing a deeper understanding of the job. They emphasize the value of lectures and learning from experienced firefighters, as well as the importance of analyzing fire videos and using social media as a tool for education. The guys also discuss the significance of work ethic, attention to detail, and letting your tools do the talking.