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. 5d ago

    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

  2. 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

  3. 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

  4. 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

  5. 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

  6. Jul 24

    020 - The Watch Desk w/ Preston Meyer

    In this episode, Preston Meyer shares valuable leadership principles, the importance of self-care, and how to lead with purpose and authenticity. Discover practical strategies for personal growth, building rapport, and overcoming life's challenges while inspiring others. In this episode, Preston Meyer shares his journey from packing boxes at First Form to leading over 450 Legionnaires. He discusses leadership lessons, managing stress, building pride in teams, and the importance of purpose and mindset in overcoming challenges. Preston Meyer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_prestonmeyer_/ 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 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 Topics Covered: Leading by ExampleSelf-Care and Mental ToughnessBuilding Rapport and TrustPurpose-Driven Leadership Leadership development and team managementThe importance of purpose and mindset in overcoming challengesStrategies for stress management and resilience Guest: Preston Meyer Host: Cody Hill Brought to you by Engine House Designs | enginehousedesigns.com

  7. Jul 10

    019 - Table Talk w/ Samson DeSessa

    Guest Samson DeSessa is a fire chief with 35+ years in public service, known for his leadership, integrity, and passion for mentoring others. He’s also an author and former military explosives tech, committed to sharing lessons that save lives and careers.Whether you’re climbing the ranks or focused on community impact, this episode will redefine how you see leadership, vulnerability, and support, because the best departments are built on real connection, courage, and action. Samson “Mufasa” DeSessa Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/samsondesessa/  Brotherhood is a Verb Book: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=Brotherhood+is+a+Verb+by+Samson+DeSessa/  Give Suggestions OR Be A Guest enginehousepodcast@gmail.com 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 Vanguard Safety Wear Website: https://vanguardsafetywear.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vanguardsafetywear/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VanguardSafetyWear Topics Covered: Samson’s pathway through military and civilian fire serviceThe power of vulnerability and sharing personal strugglesBuilding trust and mentorship within fire departmentsLeadership principles: recognition, delegation, and problem-solvingThe importance of understanding your jurisdiction thoroughlyEffective communication and mental health supportThe value of continuous learning and professional development Guest: Samson DeSessa 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