National Fire Radio Jeremy Donch and Robert Ridley

In this episode, Pip and his guest, Mike Torres, discuss the importance of living in the moment and cherishing personal interactions. They reflect on their past experiences and the impact of their friendship. The conversation then shifts to Mike's weight loss journey and his decision to undergo gastric bypass surgery. They discuss the challenges and benefits of the surgery, as well as the importance of finding a sustainable lifestyle that works for each individual. In this part of the conversation. Pip and Mike discuss the changes they have experienced in their careers and personal lives. They reflect on how age, maturity, and new responsibilities have influenced their behavior and decision-making. They also talk about the fear and uncertainty that comes with making significant changes, such as switching departments or taking on new roles. They emphasize the importance of being present for their families and the challenges of balancing personal and professional commitments. Overall, they highlight the significance of embracing change and being honest and transparent with oneself and others. They touch on the sacrifices they have made in their careers and the impact of loss on personal development. Because, what you do off the job, MATTERS!!!

During an interview in 2020, Jeremy and Mickey discussed the importance of sharing knowledge and experiences in the fire service. Mickey shared that he kept a journal and notes throughout his career, which inspired his Instagram posts. Jeremy emphasized the significance of providing practical tactics in his content, avoiding fluff, and focusing on engaging and sparking conversations within the fire service community. Mickey also highlighted the gap between the fire academy and the fire floor, stressing the need to bridge this gap and pass on valuable knowledge to young firefighters. They both agreed on the importance of leaving a legacy and sharing experiences to inspire and educate future generations.

Battalion Chief Tony Bratcher has doubled down on the fire service. His dedication and passion to his job shows through his understanding of paying it forward. He works hard to empower the people around him and he knows that in order to leave a legacy behind, it requires hard work and the next generation. Not only does he believe in educating those around him, he recognizes the importance of letting your people work while promoting a positive, family focused atmosphere in and out of the firehouse. Tony is a member of the Kitchen Table Podcast, KTP, and works hard at spreading the good word about the fire service. His commitment is steadfast while continuing to be a student of the craft he loves.

Jeremy sits down with some members of the Lower Township Fire District #2, Town Bank, NJ to discuss their 2022 Tower Ladder build from Fire and Safety Services, NJ. This new Pierce apparatus is the May featured truck in the 2024 Calendar project. A big part of understanding the apparatus builds is understanding the department and how they operate. So many factors go into the design and operations of a new apparatus. Looking at the final build is always easier to understand when you know why they built what they did. This conversation talks about the department, their membership, history and legacy as well as the future of the department.
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For more information on this build and the others in the 2024 Calendar project, go to www.f-ss.com or visit our YouTube channel.

Jeremy sits down with NFR podcast alum Kamron Gangbin and his two west coast Brothers, Jack Ayers and Joey Schuller. Backstage pass, passing the baton and preserving legacy in the fire service are all part of this conversation during FDIC 2024.

The Size Up Episode 67. FDIC by Jeremy Donch and Robert Ridley