The Engine House

Engine House Podcast

Pull up a chair and grab a cup of station coffee, you're in the Engine House now. This is where firefighters come to do what we do best: Shoot-the-shit, give each other a hard time, and solve all the world's problems (at least until the next call drops). No scripts, no polish, just real conversations like you'd hear sitting around the kitchen table at 2 AM when you've been getting your a@! handed to you. A show brought to you by Engine House Designs. Whether we're talking about the job, swapping war stories, or going completely off the rails, this is your spot to kick back and hang with the crew. It's informal. It's unfiltered. It's exactly what you'd expect from a bunch of firefighters with too much time and not enough supervision. Welcome to the Engine House.

  1. 2d ago

    028 - The Watch Desk: Fireman and Entrepreneur

    In this episode, Nick Dinges shares his inspiring journey from volunteer firefighter to career firefighter, entrepreneur, and business owner. He discusses the challenges and rewards of fire service, business resilience, and building a supportive community for firefighters. In this episode, Cody interviews a successful entrepreneur and former firefighter who shares his journey of overcoming injuries, financial struggles, and building a thriving business. Discover key insights on mindset, decision-making, leadership, and balancing life and work. Nick Dinges Social Media: dinges599, dingesfirecompany, vanguardsafetywear Give Suggestions OR Be A Guest enginehousepodcast@gmail.com Engine House Designs - Uniforms, Designs, Custom Apparel Website: https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/TEH/  Dinges Fire Company - Trucks. Tools. Tradition. Website: https://www.dingesfire.com/ Vanguard Safety Wear - Made for Work Website: https://vanguardsafetywear.com Til Valhalla Project Website: https://www.tilvalhallaproject.com/ENGINEHOUSE Use Code: ENGINEHOUSE (Save 20%) The Energy Drink Website: https://theenergydrink.com/ENGINEHOUSE/ Use Code: ENGINEHOUSE (Save 10%) Topics Covered: Transition from volunteer to career firefighter in IllinoisChallenges of firefighting in socioeconomically challenged areasLessons learned from fireground experiences and safetyResilience and leadership in fire service and businessThe importance of culture and community in firefightingMentorship and supporting the next generation of firefightersBalancing family, career, and entrepreneurship Resilience through injury and adversityDecision-making under pressureBuilding a high-performing teamBalancing family and businessCommunity service and relationship building Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 02:12 Nick Dingus: A Journey in Firefighting 08:28 Experiences in Rockford Fire Department 17:28 Transitioning from Volunteer to Career Firefighter 22:05 Building a Fire Equipment Company 29:01 Innovations in Fire Tools and Equipment 35:28 The Birth of Leatherhead Fire Tools 39:40 Facing Financial Hardships 43:55 Strategic Growth and Acquisitions 48:44 Innovating with Software Solutions 55:51 Resilience and Mindset in Business 01:01:08 Balancing Family and Entrepreneurship 01:11:03 Life Lessons and Support Systems 01:12:52 Mindset and Effort: Keys to Success 01:15:40 Time Management and Prioritization 01:18:36 The Importance of Planning and Organization 01:20:35 Leadership and Team Dynamics 01:22:05 Managing Growth and Change 01:25:04 Building Relationships and Trust 01:27:34 Creating Value for Customers 01:30:25 Training the Next Generation 01:39:57 Transitioning from Firefighter to Entrepreneur Guest: Nick Dinges Host: Cody Hill Brought to you by Engine House Designs | enginehousedesigns.com

  2. Oct 16

    027 - Table Talk w/ Tanner Behrends

    Cody sits down with Tanner Behrends for a candid conversation about fire service culture, staffing, and what it means to work busy jobs. Tanner shares his path from Amboy’s cadet program to the Rockford Fire Department, and gets into the realities of station life, EMS assignment structure, and why training matters when you do not get constant real-world reps. Give Suggestions OR Be A Guest enginehousepodcast@gmail.com Engine House Designs - Uniforms, Designs, Custom Apparel Website: https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/TEH/  Dinges Fire Company - Trucks. Tools. Tradition. Website: https://www.dingesfire.com/ Vanguard Safety Wear - Made for Work Website: https://vanguardsafetywear.com Til Valhalla Project Website: https://www.tilvalhallaproject.com/ENGINEHOUSE Use Code: ENGINEHOUSE (Save 20%) The Energy Drink Website: https://theenergydrink.com/ENGINEHOUSE/ Use Code: ENGINEHOUSE (Save 10%) Topics Covered: How daytime population and regional industry create a much larger operational footprint.The tension in the fire service around moving to slower departments for better pay, less work, and a better life outside the job.Culture that creates strong professionalism, rank structure, and long-term career development.The differences between city and volunteer perspectives.Staying involved in teaching, committee work, and outside training. Chapters: 00:00 - Intro 15:42 - Why firefighters judge each other for moving to slower jobs 21:23 - Ladder and ambulance staffing differences in Rockford 23:42 - Amboy’s culture and why it felt so professional 35:54 - How ladder and ambulance assignments work by seniority 50:04 - Why progression through engine, truck, and rescue can matter 51:36 - You are still just a pair of boots to the department 56:31 - Teaching through IFSI and the Cherry Valley regional site 57:58 - Aggressive fire ground Survival and teaching around the country 61:10 - Meeting Ash and the Capital City Industries crew 64:39 - Why Tanner stays involved despite not going to fires every day 74:06 - How budget pressure makes departments reactive instead of proactive 76:23 - The excuses that keep people from drilling 82:41 - Closing thoughts, mutual appreciation, and final sign-off Guest: Tanner Behrends Host: Cody Hill Brought to you by Engine House Designs | enginehousedesigns.com

  3. Oct 2

    026 - The Watch Desk: The Most Notorious Arsonist

    Explore the fascinating case of Thomas Sweat, DC's most prolific arsonist, through an in-depth conversation with firefighter and author Jonathan Riffe. Discover insights into his motives, methods, and the impact on victims, revealing how technology and profiling have evolved in arson investigations. Jonathan Riffe Instagram: @jonriffe  Thomas Sweatt Book: https://a.co/d/04slmR2p Give Suggestions OR Be A Guest enginehousepodcast@gmail.com Engine House Designs - Uniforms, Designs, Custom Apparel Website: https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/TEH/  Dinges Fire Company - Trucks. Tools. Tradition. Website: https://www.dingesfire.com/ Vanguard Safety Wear - Made for Work Website: https://vanguardsafetywear.com Til Valhalla Project Website: https://www.tilvalhallaproject.com/ENGINEHOUSE Use Code: ENGINEHOUSE (Save 20%) The Energy Drink Website: https://theenergydrink.com/ENGINEHOUSE/ Use Code: ENGINEHOUSE (Save 10%) Topics Covered: Thomas Sweat's background and motivesMethods used by Sweat to set firesImpact on victims and familiesEvolution of arson investigation techniques Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 01:57 The Prolific Arsonist: Thomas Sweat 08:44 The Investigation and Arrest of Thomas Sweat 14:00 The Methodology Behind the Fires 20:29 Casualties and Consequences of Arson 23:56 Understanding the Mind of an Arsonist 26:45 The Unanswered Questions of Arson 28:14 Personal Stories of Impact 30:40 The Complexity of Closure 32:23 The Elusiveness of the Arsonist 35:16 The Psychology Behind the Fires 37:11 The Hunt for the Arsonist 40:10 Motivations and Obsessions 41:18 Close Calls with Capture 45:26 Family Ties and Secrets 48:43 Revelations and Reflections 50:04 The Intrigue of Arson and Innovation 53:05 The Psychology Behind Arsonists 56:33 Motivations for Targeting Occupied Structures 01:00:05 Remorse and the Thrill of Arson 01:02:41 The Emotional Toll on Victims 01:05:49 Changing Perspectives on Arson Investigation Guest: Jonathan Riffe Host: Cody Hill Brought to you by Engine House Designs | enginehousedesigns.com

  4. Sep 19

    025 - Table Talk w/ Scott Etheridge

    In this episode, Cody Hill interviews Fire Chief Scott Etheridge about his 30-year career in the fire service, leadership lessons, career fulfillment, and advice for upcoming firefighters and officers. Scott Etheridge Fire Chief - Princeton Fire Department (IL) Give Suggestions OR Be A Guest enginehousepodcast@gmail.com Engine House Designs - Uniforms, Designs, Custom Apparel Website: https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/TEH/  Dinges Fire Company - Trucks. Tools. Tradition. Website: https://www.dingesfire.com/ Vanguard Safety Wear - Made for Work Website: https://vanguardsafetywear.com Til Valhalla Project Website: https://www.tilvalhallaproject.com/ENGINEHOUSE Use Code: ENGINEHOUSE (Save 20%) The Energy Drink Website: https://theenergydrink.com/ENGINEHOUSE/ Use Code: ENGINEHOUSE (Save 10%) Topics Covered: Leadership in fire serviceCareer fulfillment and regretsMentorship and trainingPromotions and responsibilitiesTeamwork and department culture Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Engine House Podcast 01:18 Meet the Fire Chief: Scott Etheridge 03:16 Reflections on a Fulfilled Career 05:00 Taking Opportunities and Avoiding Regrets 08:22 The Importance of Mentorship in Fire Service 10:25 Transitioning from Firefighter to Mentor 12:56 Motivating the Stagnant Firefighter 14:01 Challenges of Being a Young Officer 16:20 Navigating Difficult Conversations 19:29 The Balance of Leadership and Feedback 22:17 Empowering Decision-Making in the Firehouse 25:20 Training New Firefighters 30:09 The Journey to Becoming a Fully Functioning Firefighter 31:52 The Journey to Confidence in EMS and Fire Services 34:42 Encouraging Continuous Learning and Specialization 38:00 Building a Supportive Firehouse Culture 40:26 Exploring Shift Schedules and Staffing Challenges 44:52 The Dynamics of Firefighting in Small Departments 49:45 Reflections on a Rewarding Career in Firefighting Guest: Scott Etheridge Host: Cody Hill Brought to you by Engine House Designs | enginehousedesigns.com

  5. Sep 5

    023 - Table Talk w/ Uncle Wayne

    Uncle Wayne shares his 30-year journey in the fire service, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, fundamentals, continuous learning, and adapting to change. This episode highlights how experience, purpose, and community shape a successful career and a better fire service. Uncle Wayne Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefirefighterschalkboard/ Firefighters Chalk Board: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569476346081 Give Suggestions OR Be A Guest enginehousepodcast@gmail.com Engine House Designs - Uniforms, Designs, Custom Apparel Website: https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/TEH/  Dinges Fire Company - Trucks. Tools. Tradition. Website: https://www.dingesfire.com/ Vanguard Safety Wear - Made for Work Website: https://vanguardsafetywear.com Jump Seat Designs - Made right in Tennessee Website: https://www.jumpseatdesigns.com Til Valhalla Project Website: https://www.tilvalhallaproject.com/ENGINEHOUSE Use Code: ENGINEHOUSE (Save 20%) The Energy Drink Website: https://theenergydrink.com/ENGINEHOUSE Use Code: ENGINEHOUSE (Save 10%) Topics Covered: The importance of mentorship and passing down knowledgeThe significance of fundamentals and continuous learningAdapting training to modern fire behavior and technologyThe role of purpose and passion in firefightingThe impact of social media and community sharing in fire educationChallenges faced by new firefighters and bridging generational gapsThe value of formal education and leadership developmentThe future of the fire service and the importance of mentorship Guest: Wayne Jones Host: Cody Hill Brought to you by Engine House Designs | enginehousedesigns.com

  6. Aug 21

    022 - The Watch Desk w/ Tyler Whittredge

    In this episode, Cody Hill interviews firefighter Tyler Whittredge about the qualities that make a good fireman, the importance of continuous learning, and fostering a strong fire service culture. They discuss personal development, leadership, and the mindset needed to excel in the fire service. Tyler Whittredge Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/t_whitty29/ Give Suggestions OR Be A Guest enginehousepodcast@gmail.com https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/pages/the-engine-house-podcast Engine House Designs https://www.instagram.com/enginehousedesigns/ https://www.facebook.com/p/Engine-House-Designs-LLC-100067086849977/ Website: https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/TEH Become an Affiliate: https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/pages/collab Til Valhalla Project Website: https://www.tilvalhallaproject.com/ENGINEHOUSE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/til_valhalla_project/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TilValhallaProject Dinges Fire Company Website: https://www.dingesfire.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dingesfirecompany/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dingesfire Vanguard Safety Wear Website: https://vanguardsafetywear.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vanguardsafetywear/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VanguardSafetyWear Topics Covered: Qualities of a good fireman: loyalty, desire to learn, persistence, and IT factorThe importance of continuous education and self-improvementBuilding a strong fire service culture and communityLeadership and mentorship in the fire departmentPersonal development and mindset shifts for firefighters Guest: Tyler Whittredge Host: Cody Hill Brought to you by Engine House Designs | enginehousedesigns.com

  7. Aug 7

    021 - Table Talk w/ Orion Rich

    In this in-depth interview, Orion Rich shares his journey from military service to Chicago Fire Department, emphasizing the importance of hands-on experience, street-proven training, and the culture of love for the fire service. Discover insights on truck and engine operations, career progression, and the value of real-world training in firefighting. In this engaging interview, Orion Rich shares insights into fire service training, the importance of hands-on experience, and building strong firehouse culture. Discover practical tips for continuous learning, leadership, and effective communication within fire departments. Orion Rich Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theworkingtruckcompany/?hl=en  Give Suggestions OR Be A Guest enginehousepodcast@gmail.com https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/pages/the-engine-house-podcast Engine House Designs https://www.instagram.com/enginehousedesigns/ https://www.facebook.com/p/Engine-House-Designs-LLC-100067086849977/ Website: https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/TEH Become an Affiliate: https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/pages/collab Customer Store: https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/pages/customer-stores Til Valhalla Project Website: https://www.tilvalhallaproject.com/ENGINEHOUSE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/til_valhalla_project/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TilValhallaProject Dinges Fire Company Website: https://www.dingesfire.com/ Vanguard Safety Wear Website: https://vanguardsafetywear.com Topics Covered: Career path from military to firefightingTruck vs engine operations and skillsStreet proven training and tactics Firefighter training and educationBuilding firehouse culture and camaraderieLeadership and communication in fire departments Guest: Orion Rich Host: Cody Hill Brought to you by Engine House Designs | enginehousedesigns.com

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Pull up a chair and grab a cup of station coffee, you're in the Engine House now. This is where firefighters come to do what we do best: Shoot-the-shit, give each other a hard time, and solve all the world's problems (at least until the next call drops). No scripts, no polish, just real conversations like you'd hear sitting around the kitchen table at 2 AM when you've been getting your a@! handed to you. A show brought to you by Engine House Designs. Whether we're talking about the job, swapping war stories, or going completely off the rails, this is your spot to kick back and hang with the crew. It's informal. It's unfiltered. It's exactly what you'd expect from a bunch of firefighters with too much time and not enough supervision. Welcome to the Engine House.

You Might Also Like