Firefighter Nation Podcast Network’s

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Firefighter Nation’s podcast lineup features firefighters and subject matter experts in the fields of mental and physical health and well-being.

  1. 9H AGO

    Connecting the Dots Between PTSD and Substance Use

    Chris Muscle, a firefighter and former Marine, opens up to Dan Degryse about the collision of PTSD and alcohol use within the culture that taught him to push through everything on this episode of Mental Health Monthly. What started as “just drinking” slowly exposed deeper trauma: combat deployments, years on the job, and a life built around control. Treatment wasn’t linear. He went in for PTSD and didn’t recognize his alcohol dependency until later. Medication, relapse, shame, ego, and the fear of what others thought all played a role.   This conversation between the show's hosts digs into how brain injury, repeated exposure to trauma, and firehouse drinking culture overlap. It challenges the idea that strength means silence. It questions one-size-fits-all treatment and argues for real evaluation, reassessment, and accountability. Most of all, it offers something practical: daily effort and brutal honesty. It requires a willingness to stop caring about reputation long enough to get better. Recovery isn’t dramatic. It’s consistent. And it’s possible.

    1h 12m

  2. 6D AGO

    Prepping for the Health & Wellness Stage at FDIC 2026

    In this episode of Five After Midnight, host Stephanie White, editor in chief of Firefighter Nation, welcomes Jon Vought, of Rescue 1 CBD. They discuss how FDIC has broadened its scope to incorporate urgent issues like mental health, wellness, and cultural challenges alongside traditional fire service education. They also talk about the Health & Wellness stage and the benefits of the audience having access to speakers, podcasters, and more. This podcast is brought to you by FirehouseFurniture.com. https://www.FirehouseFurniture.com

    25 min

  3. FEB 26

    Should You Stay or Should You Go?

    Host Chris Marella welcomes Wayne Jones to this episode of Beyond the Headlines. They discuss Jones's article "Fire Department Culture: Do You Jump Ship or Man the Pumps?" A career captain for Horry County (SC) Fire Rescue, where he has served since 1996, Jones addresses the important decision of whether to stay with or leave a department, and also touches on mentorship and mindset.  This podcast is brought to you by FirehouseFurniture.com. https://www.FirehouseFurniture.com

    37 min

  4. FEB 24

    What Can FireNuggets Do for Your Department?

    From its roots in the late 1990s as the first-ever online firefighter magazine to today’s expansive network offering thousands of training opportunities nationwide, the FireNuggets has grown into a vital resource for departments and individuals alike. During this episode of The C.A.N. Report, host Michael Goldstein welcomes guest Jeffrey Bryant, a lieutenant for the Aurora (IL) Fire Department, and president of this influential nonprofit dedicated to firefighter education and support.   This podcast is brought to you by FirehouseFurniture.com. https://www.FirehouseFurniture.com

    57 min

  5. FEB 20

    What Does REAL Mentorship Look Like?

    Guest Rob Fisher joins this episode of The Revolutionaries to dig into mentorship in today’s fire and EMS world. From the “senior man is dead” problem to culture clashes with third-service medics, the retired battalion chief from Snohomish (WA) Regional Fire & Rescue breaks down why informal, relationship-driven mentoring still matters more than any training calendar. The crew hits on static assignments vs rotation, EMS vs fire focus, and how to keep your company sharp when you’re buried in EMS runs. Whether you’re a new firefighter, a salty medic, or a company officer trying to build a culture of ownership, this episode will challenge how you develop your people.   This podcast is brought to you by FirehouseFurniture.com. https://www.FirehouseFurniture.com

    1h 36m

  6. FEB 19

    How Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell Is Shaping the Future of Firefighting

    During this episode of the Igniting the Shift Within, host David Dachinger sits down with Dr. Lori Moore-Merrell, a true leader in fire safety and emergency response. They delve into her impactful tenure as the U.S. Fire Administrator, highlighting her groundbreaking work that supports firefighters on the front lines, particularly in wildland firefighting.   Together, Dachinger and Dr. Moore-Merrell examine the National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS), discussing its critical role in enhancing real-time data accessibility for firefighters, thus improving response times and strategies. They explore the current state of wildland firefighting, addressing key issues including staffing shortages, retention rates, and resource allocation. The episode also highlights the inaugural World Fire Congress, founded by Dr. Moore-Merrell, where global fire officials converge to discuss key metrics and trends that will shape the future of fire safety.

    31 min

  7. FEB 13

    Building Shift-Proof Gainz

    Protein is essential for firefighter performance, recovery, and long-term health. But how it is distributed, timed, and sourced often does not match the physical demands of training and shift work. In this solo episode of Fueling Fire, host Megan Lautz breaks down how much protein firefighters need based on common goals, practical ways to structure protein intake using food and on-the-go options during long shifts, and how to choose protein powders and bars that support performance without unnecessary hype.

    38 min

  8. FEB 12

    What You Need to Know About the Honor Act and PSOBs

    During this episode of APS Radio, host Jim Burneka welcomes guest Julie Paidar. The two discuss the recent passage of the Honor Act. Paidar shares the significance of the legislation, which recognizes occupational deaths due to firefighter cancer as line-of-duty deaths. She also offers details about how to go about filing claims for Public Safety Officers Benefits (PSOBs).   Beyond policy, the two share personal journeys of resilience—from navigating injury and recovery to balancing family life with public service. Burneka opens up about his wellness initiatives, podcasting experiences, and the emotional significance of firefighter memorials, while Paidar reflects on honoring loved ones and the importance of community.    This podcast is brought to you by FirehouseFurniture.com. https://www.FirehouseFurniture.com

    24 min
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Firefighter Nation’s podcast lineup features firefighters and subject matter experts in the fields of mental and physical health and well-being.

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