The K-Factor Podcast

AFSA Applied Learning & Lab Services

Welcome to The K-Factor, the podcast that brings you inside the world of fire protection. Hosted by industry experts Josh McDonald, Eric Andresen, & Hayden Stoll. This show dives into all aspects of the fire protection industry—from groundbreaking technologies and best practices to career insights and industry trends. From NFPA codes and standards to helping you build your career.  Join us for engaging discussions, expert interviews, and real-world stories as we explore what it takes to keep people and properties safe. Whether you’re a seasoned professional, a newcomer, or just curious about fire protection, The K-Factor is your go-to resource for staying informed and inspired. Stay connected, stay protected—welcome to The K-Factor.https://www.firesprinkler.org/podcast/ Want to train apprentices!  www.firesprinkler.org/trainers

  1. 1h ago

    048 Viva Las Fire Protection: Inside NFPA 241 and the Codes & Standards Process

    Send us Fan Mail Recorded live from the NFPA Conference & Expo in Las Vegas, this episode of The K-Factor Podcast features Shawn Mahoney, Senior Engineer, Technical Services at the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). If you work in commercial construction, fire protection, or jobsite safety, this conversation is for you. Shawn explains why NFPA 241, Standard for Safeguarding Construction, Alteration, and Demolition Operations, is one of the most important standards affecting construction projects today. We discuss fire protection during construction, temporary fire safety measures, and practical ways contractors can reduce risk on active jobsites. We also take a behind-the-scenes look at the NFPA codes and standards development process, exploring how industry experts collaborate to develop the standards that shape construction and fire protection across North America. Whether you're a general contractor, fire sprinkler contractor, construction manager, engineer, safety professional, or AHJ, you'll come away with a better understanding of how fire safety standards are created—and why they matter long before a building is occupied. VIP Reach out with questions and topics you would like covered at podcast@firesprinkler.org. For more training opportunities visit: www.firesprinkler.org TikTok: @firesprinkler.org LinkedIn: American Fire Sprinkler Association Facebook: firesprinkler.org Instagram: @firesprinklerorg Don't forget to like, subscribe, & review!

  2. Jul 8

    047 Becoming Successful in Fire Sprinkler Sales

    Send us Fan Mail What does it really take to succeed in sales? Devin O’Leary from Johnson Controls joins the K-Factor Podcast to talk about the mindset, personality traits, and people skills behind top-performing sales professionals in the fire protection industry. From building relationships and confidence , this episode is packed with real-world sales insights for anyone looking to grow in fire protection sales. #FireProtection #SalesSuccess #JohnsonControls #FireProtectionSales #SalesPodcast #KFactorPodcast VIP Reach out with questions and topics you would like covered at podcast@firesprinkler.org. For more training opportunities visit: www.firesprinkler.org TikTok: @firesprinkler.org LinkedIn: American Fire Sprinkler Association Facebook: firesprinkler.org Instagram: @firesprinklerorg Don't forget to like, subscribe, & review!

  3. Jun 24

    046 Circulation Relief Valve Roulette: NFPA 20 Fire Pump Mistakes & Myths

    Send us Fan Mail John Denhardt joins the K-Factor Podcast to clear up common misconceptions surrounding NFPA 20 fire pumps. From pump curves and pressure requirements to installation mistakes and standards interpretation, this episode delivers practical fire protection insights for contractors, engineers, inspectors, and AHJs working with fire pump systems. VIP Reach out with questions and topics you would like covered at podcast@firesprinkler.org. For more training opportunities visit: www.firesprinkler.org TikTok: @firesprinkler.org LinkedIn: American Fire Sprinkler Association Facebook: firesprinkler.org Instagram: @firesprinklerorg Don't forget to like, subscribe, & review!

  4. Jun 17

    045 The NFPA 25 Effect: Keeping Systems Ready and Careers Moving

    Send us Fan Mail What does it take to build a successful career in the fire protection industry? In this episode, Emily Biernacki Wrenn of Fire Tech Systems shares her journey into the world of fire protection, the lessons she's learned along the way, and the opportunities available for the next generation of industry professionals. We also dive into the critical role of NFPA 25 and why inspection, testing, and maintenance are essential to keeping fire protection systems ready when they're needed most. Emily explains how compliance, customer education, and proactive maintenance help protect lives, property, and businesses across Louisiana and beyond. Whether you're a building owner, facility manager, contractor, or someone exploring a career in fire protection, this conversation offers practical insights on industry growth, professional development, and the importance of keeping systems in peak condition. #NFPA25 #FireProtection #WomenInFireProtection #FireSafety #WomenInConstruction VIP Reach out with questions and topics you would like covered at podcast@firesprinkler.org. For more training opportunities visit: www.firesprinkler.org TikTok: @firesprinkler.org LinkedIn: American Fire Sprinkler Association Facebook: firesprinkler.org Instagram: @firesprinklerorg Don't forget to like, subscribe, & review!

  5. Jun 10

    044 Using AI in Fire Protection Without Burning Your Business

    Send us Fan Mail Michael Newell from Belvedere Fire & Safety joins the K-Factor Podcast to discuss entrepreneurship, business growth, and how basic AI tools are transforming the fire protection industry. From using AI for marketing, website development, and streamlining quote processes to making the leap from employee to business owner, this episode explores practical ways technology is improving efficiency and changing the future of fire protection businesses. Whether you’re interested in artificial intelligence in the workplace, fire protection entrepreneurship, or growing a service business, this conversation is packed with real-world insights for contractors, sales teams, and business owners alike. #FireProtection #ArtificialIntelligence #AItools #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #FireSprinkler #SmallBusiness #FireProtectionIndustry #Marketing #KFactorPodcast #BelvedereFireAndSafety VIP Reach out with questions and topics you would like covered at podcast@firesprinkler.org. For more training opportunities visit: www.firesprinkler.org TikTok: @firesprinkler.org LinkedIn: American Fire Sprinkler Association Facebook: firesprinkler.org Instagram: @firesprinklerorg Don't forget to like, subscribe, & review!

  6. May 27

    043 Coordination Station: Meeting our VIP Coordinators for Apprenticeship Training

    Send us Fan Mail Get to know Jalyn Hopkins and Shakira Staten, Training Coordinators for AFSA’s VIP Apprenticeship Program (Virtual Instruction Program). In this episode of the K-Factor Podcast, we explore how the program is developing the next generation of fire protection professionals through structured apprenticeship training, virtual learning, and hands-on experience. Jalyn and Shakira break down how the VIP Program supports apprentices and contractors by combining online instruction with fire sprinkler apprenticeship training, building strong foundations in safety, responsibility, and installation. This conversation highlights how modern apprenticeship programs are shaping the future of fire protection education and workforce development. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow in the industry, this episode offers insight into fire protection apprenticeships, virtual training programs, and careers in the fire sprinkler industry. https://firesprinkler.org/sprinkler-fitter-apprentice-training-vip/ VIP Reach out with questions and topics you would like covered at podcast@firesprinkler.org. For more training opportunities visit: www.firesprinkler.org TikTok: @firesprinkler.org LinkedIn: American Fire Sprinkler Association Facebook: firesprinkler.org Instagram: @firesprinklerorg Don't forget to like, subscribe, & review!

  7. May 13

    042 Built Different, the NFPA 25 Mindset

    Send us Fan Mail Discover the path from field helper to supervisor in the fire protection industry. In this episode of the K-Factor podcast, Quenton Dukes of VSC Fire & Security discusses the critical role of AFSA training, the technical differences between NFPA 25 and NFPA 13, and how mastering system design and hydraulics enhances ITM inspections. Learn about the future of fire safety education, including alarm and suppression system integration. https://www.vscfire.com/ VIP Reach out with questions and topics you would like covered at podcast@firesprinkler.org. For more training opportunities visit: www.firesprinkler.org TikTok: @firesprinkler.org LinkedIn: American Fire Sprinkler Association Facebook: firesprinkler.org Instagram: @firesprinklerorg Don't forget to like, subscribe, & review!

  8. Apr 29

    041 Gauge Your Accuracy: Fire Pump Testing

    Send us Fan Mail Enhance your fire protection expertise in this episode of the K-Factor Podcast 🎙️ featuring Adolfo Wurts from Arbiter. We dive into the science of measurement—metrology 📏—and why it plays a critical role in fire sprinkler systems, inspection, testing, and maintenance. 🚨💧 From calibration and accuracy to real-world applications in the field, this conversation breaks down how precise measurement impacts system performance, code compliance, and overall life safety. 🔧📊 Whether you're a fire sprinkler contractor, inspector, or industry professional, understanding metrology can elevate the way you approach fire protection. Tune in to learn how better data leads to better decisions—and safer systems. 🔥✅ https://arbiterfire.com/  VIP Reach out with questions and topics you would like covered at podcast@firesprinkler.org. For more training opportunities visit: www.firesprinkler.org TikTok: @firesprinkler.org LinkedIn: American Fire Sprinkler Association Facebook: firesprinkler.org Instagram: @firesprinklerorg Don't forget to like, subscribe, & review!

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

Welcome to The K-Factor, the podcast that brings you inside the world of fire protection. Hosted by industry experts Josh McDonald, Eric Andresen, & Hayden Stoll. This show dives into all aspects of the fire protection industry—from groundbreaking technologies and best practices to career insights and industry trends. From NFPA codes and standards to helping you build your career.  Join us for engaging discussions, expert interviews, and real-world stories as we explore what it takes to keep people and properties safe. Whether you’re a seasoned professional, a newcomer, or just curious about fire protection, The K-Factor is your go-to resource for staying informed and inspired. Stay connected, stay protected—welcome to The K-Factor.https://www.firesprinkler.org/podcast/ Want to train apprentices!  www.firesprinkler.org/trainers

Information

  • Creator
    AFSA Applied Learning & Lab Services
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    47
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The K-Factor Podcast
  • Show Website
    The K-Factor Podcast

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