The C.A.N. Report

Mike Goldstein

The C.A.N. Report is a mission to bring the fire service and first responder community of New Hampshire to the masses. NH has such a rich history in the fire service, and so many talented individuals within the state. My mission is to bring those departments and people to light. Of course, the fire service community spreads nationwide and we are all family. So along with speaking with my fellow brothers and sisters within NH, I am inviting all of my brothers and sisters from around the Nation to tell their stories, share their knowledge and passion to all of us.

  1. 1D AGO

    Episode 101 with Chief Marc Aloan (Fire Inside)

    In our latest podcast episode, Chief Mark Aloan shares invaluable insights on the importance of adaptability when transitioning between fire departments. 💡 "Every department has its quirks; learning to navigate them is key to success!" Mark Aloan describes himself as a "nobody from nowhere," highlighting his humble beginnings as a volunteer firefighter at the age of 17 in upstate New York. After a brief stint in college, he joined the Air Force and later transitioned to a career in firefighting in Georgia. His journey reflects a deep passion for the fire service, where he has taken on various roles, including teaching and writing, thanks to mentors who encouraged him along the way. Mark discusses the complexities of lateral transfers between departments, particularly from the Northeast to the South. He emphasizes the importance of understanding certification equivalencies and the variations in training that can exist between states. Chief Aloan notes that while foundational skills are consistent, differences in call volume and departmental culture can create challenges for newcomers. For instance, he mentions that many departments may not recognize training hours from another region, which can hinder a firefighter's ability to transition smoothly. A significant topic for many fire departments, is the need for better retention strategies in the fire service. Chief Aloan argues that while recruiting efforts are essential, departments must also focus on retaining their existing personnel. He highlights the transient nature of the fire service today, where firefighters may not stay in one department for long due to various factors like dissatisfaction with leadership, culture, or compensation. He encourages departments to invest in their current workforce to foster loyalty and retain talent. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Leadership in the Fire Service 03:03 Mark Aloan's Journey in the Fire Service 05:42 Transitioning from Northeast to Southern Fire Departments 08:29 Challenges of Lateral Transfers in Fire Departments 11:36 Retention vs. Recruitment in the Fire Service 14:21 Understanding Employee Satisfaction and Retention 17:17 The Role of Training and Opportunities in Retention 20:14 Salary Compression and Its Impact on Morale 23:20 Creating a Positive Fire Department Culture 26:29 Empowering Firefighters: Letting Go of Micromanagement 29:21 Navigating Lateral Moves: Culture and Respect in the Fire Service 32:48 The Balance of Humility and Expertise in Leadership 34:56 Being a Force, Not a Figure: The Importance of Influence 38:29 The Reality of Imposter Syndrome in the Fire Service 42:14 Moving Beyond Social Media: Focus on Real Impact 49:06 Learning in Silence: The Value of Humility and Growth 55:28 Valuing Opportunities in Firefighting Conferences 56:13 Teaching Leadership in Short-Staffed Environments 59:17 Experiences at FDIC and Networking 01:02:39 The Importance of Giving Back and Mentorship 01:06:56 Navigating Social Media and Professional Integrity 01:13:19 The Brotherhood in the Fire Service 01:17:40 Upcoming Events and Classes Thank you to my Sponsors to help make these episodes possible: Engine House Designs LLC: https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/ Industrial Protection Services: https://www.ipp-ips.com/ The CAN Report Website: https://www.thecanreportpodcast.com/

    1h 22m
  2. Celebrating my 100th Episode with Corley Moore!

    MAY 13

    Celebrating my 100th Episode with Corley Moore!

    In this 100th episode of The Can Report, I chat with Corley Moore about the grind behind podcasting and the importance of staying committed. Consistency isn’t just key; it’s the lifeblood of success. Corley Moore, a retired battalion chief with 28 years of service, has made a significant impact in the fire service community through his podcast. His dedication to sharing knowledge and experiences has inspired many. As a skilled communicator, Corley emphasizes the value of consistency in achieving success in podcasting. Corley shares how he turned his love for firefighting into impactful conversations that resonate with so many. It’s not about competition, but about lifting each other up in our journeys. I am so incredibly thankful and humbled to have made it this far. And it's all thanks to you!! Thank you all for being with me on this journey, thank you to my guests for trusting me to help spread your message. I can't thank you all enough and I'm excited for the future... Let’s keep pushing each other to succeed. Chapters 00:00 Celebrating Milestones and Inspirations 02:57 The Importance of Consistency in Podcasting 05:40 Sharing Knowledge and Building Community 08:41 The Evolution of Firehouse Vigilance 11:21 Impact and Feedback from the Audience 14:10 Navigating Leadership and Authority 17:09 The Journey of Writing the Nine L's 19:59 Understanding Leadership's Gray Areas 24:59 The Importance of Self-Awareness in Leadership 26:58 Influential Mentors and Their Impact 28:53 Lessons from Personal Relationships 29:41 The Journey of Writing and Sharing Knowledge 33:58 The Power of Community and Support 37:49 The Filthy Fallacy: Leadership and Accountability 43:00 The Impact of Technology on Attention Span 43:21 Feedback and Connection Through Writing 44:57 The Power of Concise Communication 45:55 AI as a Tool for Learning and Organization 46:53 The Art of Presentation and Public Speaking 49:39 Developing Effective Classes and Workshops 52:58 Overcoming Public Speaking Anxiety 57:44 The Importance of Preparation in Teaching 01:03:08 Celebrating Milestones and Friendships THANK YOU TO MY SPONSORS: https://www.ipp-ips.com/ https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/ https://thekitchentablefoundation.org/ VISIT MY WEBSITE-https://www.thecanreportpodcast.com/

    1h 9m
  3. MAY 5

    Episode 99 with Dr./Chief Candace Key Ashby

    In this engaging conversation, I had the honor to talk with Dr. Candice Ashby discuss her extensive experience in the fire service, the challenges faced by firefighters, and the importance of leadership and accountability. Candice emphasizes the need for a cultural shift within the fire service, advocating for the silent majority to stand up against toxicity and negativity. She highlights the role of informal leaders, the necessity of continuous education, and the importance of psychological safety in fostering a positive work environment. The discussion also touches on the need for systemic change and the importance of celebrating good leadership while addressing the challenges posed by toxic leaders. Candice's passion for the fire service and her commitment to making it a better place for all firefighters shines through as she shares her insights and experiences. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 04:57 The Drive to Advocate for Change 08:43 Understanding Organizational Dynamics 12:21 The Politics of the Fire Service 17:56 The Importance of Continuous Education 20:24 Navigating Toxic Leadership 22:48 Celebrating Good Leadership 27:13 Challenges in Smaller Departments 30:04 Standing Up for the Fire Service 30:59 The Role of Leadership in Fire Departments 32:25 Creating a Positive Culture 33:45 The Importance of Accountability 35:59 Learning from Bad Leadership 37:57 The Impact of Personal History on Leadership 39:46 Overcoming Adversity in the Fire Service 41:43 The Need for Self-Reflection 43:26 The Power of the Officer's Role 44:54 Promoting the Right People 47:21 Training for Effective Leadership 49:13 Changing the Fire Service Mentality 50:56 Letting Go of the Past 53:13 Finding New Opportunities 55:05 The Importance of Accountability in Leadership 58:36 Building Trust and Relationships in Leadership 01:01:56 The Need for Comprehensive Training in Fire Service 01:05:08 Balancing Management and Leadership Skills 01:08:42 Creating a Culture of Accountability and Communication 01:11:10 Developing Effective Systems for Organizational Improvement 01:16:00 The Importance of Continuous Learning and Support This Episode was made possible by my Sponsors: Industrial Protection Services: Industrial Protection Services, LLC, commonly known as IPS, is a family-owned business founded in 1993 by Dick Murphy. We specialize in addressing the needs of fire departments throughout New England and take pride in utilizing our Air-Pak service truck at any of our customer's locations. Along with providing air packs and service, we have a full line of fire fighting equipment from flashlights, and meters to gear and extrication tools. Our dedication to our customers has allowed us to become the largest distributor and service provider of Scott Air-Paks in New England. https://www.ipp-ips.com/ https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/ THE KITCHEN TABLE FOUNDATION 🔥👍 The Kitchen Table FoundationWe exist to strengthen the bonds of the fire service and first responders. We provide a place to find connection through camaraderie, shared experience, & peer support. We aim to uphold the mental well being of those who run toward the call. https://thekitchentablefoundation.org/ VISIT MY WEBSITE FOR STORE LINKS, PHOTOS AND MORE! https://www.thecanreportpodcast.com/

    1h 26m
  4. Episode 98 Don't let Cancer define you: Chief Dennis Reilly and Paul Shoemaker

    APR 28

    Episode 98 Don't let Cancer define you: Chief Dennis Reilly and Paul Shoemaker

    In this episode of the Can Report, host Mike Goldstein, engages in a heartfelt conversation with Chief Dennis Reilly and Paul Shoemaker, both of whom have bravely navigated their journeys with cancer. They share their personal experiences, from the initial diagnosis to the emotional and physical challenges they faced. Paul recounts discovering a lump that led to his diagnosis of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, while Chief Reilly discusses his prostate cancer diagnosis and subsequent treatment. Both guests emphasize the importance of early detection, mental resilience, and the support of their families and fire service communities during their battles with cancer. The discussion also delves into the mental health aspects of dealing with cancer, highlighting the fears and uncertainties that accompany such diagnoses. Both Paul and Chief Reilly stress the significance of maintaining a positive mindset and the role of nutrition and fitness in their recovery processes. They advocate for proactive health measures within the fire service community, encouraging listeners to prioritize their health and seek help when needed. We end the episode with a message of hope and resilience, reminding everyone that while cancer is a daunting challenge, it can be faced with strength and support. Takeaways "Cancer is just a small part of my total being." "Wake up every day and tell yourself that you're going to beat it." "If you ignore it, it gets worse. If you treat it, you can come out on the other side with a strong likelihood of doing well." "You have to realize that cancer is in your body all the time." "The only thing you can control is your positive attitude." "Eat from the perimeter of the grocery store and stay out of the aisles." "You can’t replicate what you go through with cancer." "If you have cancer, it's only going to continue to get worse." "You have to be proactive about your health." "Don't just say it's nothing; find out what the problem is." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Guests and Their Cancer Journeys 01:16 Paul Shoemaker's Diagnosis and Experience 04:24 Dennis Riley's Prostate Cancer Journey 06:10 Coping with the News of Cancer 09:13 The Emotional Impact of Diagnosis 16:26 Support Systems and Community Response 23:37 Navigating Healthcare and Treatment Options 28:38 Dennis Reilly's Cancer Journey 32:35 The Emotional Toll of Diagnosis 36:03 Community Support and Positivity 41:24 The Power of Nutrition and Juicing 45:18 Fitness and Recovery Strategies 52:01 Reflections on Healthy Living 55:22 The Importance of Sleep and Wellness 57:11 Understanding Cancer Risks in Firefighting 01:02:03 Facing Fears: Living with Cancer 01:09:26 Mental Health and Coping Strategies 01:15:43 Future Endeavors and Leadership in Fire Service https://chiefreilly.com/ NEXT LEVEL TRAINING NETWORK- https://www.instagram.com/nextleveltrainingnetwork?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw== https://www.firefightercancersupport.org/ https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/ https://www.thecanreportpodcast.com/ https://thekitchentablefoundation.org/

    1h 28m
  5. Episode 97 Getting to know Chief Rick Lasky

    APR 21

    Episode 97 Getting to know Chief Rick Lasky

    Join us for a compelling discussion with Chief Rick Lasky as he shares four decades of firefighting experience, leadership lessons, and how fostering community and mentorship can transform fire departments. Whether you're a seasoned firefighter or new to the fire service, this episode offers invaluable advice on leadership, recruitment, and maintaining morale both inside and outside the firehouse. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background of Chief Lasky 02:49 Career Journey and Achievements 05:31 Leadership Philosophy and Interim Roles 07:54 Challenges in Fire Departments 10:37 The Importance of Volunteer Firefighters 13:36 Leadership Issues in Fire Service 16:20 The Role of Appreciation in Firefighting 19:09 Navigating Leadership Challenges 21:30 Funding and Budget Issues 24:28 Community Engagement and Political Advocacy 32:19 Leadership and Recruitment Challenges 35:47 The Importance of Department Culture 43:50 Building Connections Beyond the Firehouse 50:28 The Role of Community and Brotherhood 01:01:16 FDIC and Opportunities for Firefighters resources Fire Engineering Magazine - https://www.fireengineering.com/ FDIC Conference - https://www.fdic.com/ Firefighter Nation - https://www.firefighternation.com/ Fire Engineering Articles by Rick Lasky - https://www.fireengineering.com/author/rick-lasky/ Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation - https://firehousesubsfoundation.org/ Fire Engineering's Fire Service Leadership Classes - https://www.fireengineering.com/ https://www.thecanreportpodcast.com/

    1h 9m
  6. APR 14

    Episode 96 with Chief Brian (Crush) Brush

    In this episode, Chief Brian Brush shares his 30-year journey in the fire service, emphasizing the importance of training, standardization, firefighter rescue data, and positive leadership. Discover insights on improving fireground tactics, fostering a culture of learning, and the power of sharing knowledge to save lives. Brian Brush has served in various capacities, including as a training chief in Midwest City, Oklahoma, and as a technical editor for Fire Engineering. His passion for teaching and commitment to the craft have made him a respected figure in the firefighting community. Brian emphasizes that the fire service is constantly evolving, and staying updated with the latest techniques and knowledge is crucial for any firefighter. He recalls his early days in the fire service and how the lack of resources made it difficult to advance. "In my first decade, advancements were incremental," he shares. However, attending conferences and engaging with peers transformed his approach to learning. Training conferences like FDIC are invaluable for firefighters. Brian explains that these events allow firefighters to learn from experts, share experiences, and gain insights that can greatly enhance their skills. He notes that the information shared at these conferences is often ahead of what is taught at the departmental level, providing attendees with a competitive edge. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Excitement for the Interview 03:25 The Importance of Training and Teaching 04:23 Generational Differences in Firefighting 09:11 Fitness and Social Media's Impact on Firefighters 11:59 The Role of Technology in Training 15:18 Firefighter Rescue Data and Its Importance 18:03 Positivity in the Fire Service 20:26 Conclusion and Future Endeavors resources Firefighter Rescue Survey - https://firefighterscuesurvey.com Brass Tacks Hard Facts - https://www.brasstackshardfacts.com FDIC International - https://fdic.com The CAN Report Website - https://www.thecanreportpodcast.com/ https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/ https://thekitchentablefoundation.org/

    1h 10m
  7. Episode 95 with the Boss Lady Stephanie White of Firefighter Nation

    APR 7

    Episode 95 with the Boss Lady Stephanie White of Firefighter Nation

    Join us in this lively episode as Stephanie White, editor-in-chief of Firefighter Nation, shares her journey into fire service culture, wellness initiatives, and the power of storytelling. We explore how fostering community, understanding mental health, and embracing diverse voices can transform the fire service. Stephanie's podcasting journey began with the aim of highlighting the untold stories of everyday firefighters. "There are a million and one stories in the fire service that we never get to hear," she explains. By sharing these personal narratives, she hopes to create a sense of community and understanding among firefighters facing similar life challenges. Her goal is to normalize discussions about the struggles many face, from personal loss to workplace stress, emphasizing that these stories hold immense value in fostering connection and support. Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction and tech checks for live streaming02:18 - Stephanie’s background and her journey into fire service leadership04:25 - Fire service culture, mental health, and the impact of 9/11 stories07:36 - Workplace PTSD — realities and discussions in the fire service10:15 - The evolution of storytelling: from written journals to podcasts and articles13:04 - The rise of podcasting as a platform for the unnoticed stories in fire service15:39 - The value of sharing ordinary stories and diverse perspectives19:06 - Transition from firefighter to civilian life: identity, usefulness, and purpose22:48 - Stephanie’s role at Firefighter Nation and the focus on culture and wellness26:19 - What it means to be an editor-in-chief: guiding content with authenticity30:14 - How to effectively pitch stories and the importance of calling out problems with solutions31:14 - Navigating AI tools in content creation; the importance of authenticity and storytelling tone35:50 - The FDIC wellness stage: topics, speakers, and fostering community conversations44:35 - Tips for sharing stories: word count, submission process, and best practices48:47 - The significance of relationships, mentorship, and speaking up in fire service54:07 - Respectful professionalism: facts, SOPs, and advocacy through calm communication61:34 - The expanding reach of Firefighter Nation podcasts and new collaborations66:48 - The importance of sharing personal stories beyond tactical expertise70:24 - Advice for female firefighters and building mentorship networks73:04 - Recognizing the good in the fire service and improving culture through positive examples75:34 - How to connect with Stephanie White and submit content to Firefighter Nation77:21 - Closing notes: partnership with The CAN Report and upcoming content offeringsResources & Links:Connect with Stephanie White:Upcoming Events:Join us in celebrating the stories, struggles, and strength of the fire service community. Together, we can move from adversity to resilience, one story at a time. https://www.firefighternation.com/ https://www.thecanreportpodcast.com/

    1h 10m
  8. MAR 31

    Episode 94 with Ashton Hampshire of SafeStride

    In this episode of the Can Report, host Mike Goldstein interviews Ashton Hampshire, a 19-year-old entrepreneur and college student from Arizona. Ashton shares his journey of developing Safe Stride, a firefighter safety product designed to improve visibility in smoky environments and on roadways. Inspired by his father's career as a fire chief, Ashton discusses the alarming statistics of firefighter fatalities due to visibility issues and how his product aims to address this critical problem. He recently participated in a Shark Tank-style competition at his university, where he earned recognition for his innovative approach to firefighter safety. The conversation delves into the challenges Ashton faces as a young entrepreneur, including product development, testing, and the importance of feedback from firefighters. He emphasizes the need for proactive visibility solutions, especially in dangerous situations like roadside incidents. The episode also touches on the negativity that can arise in the fire service community regarding new ideas and products, highlighting the importance of constructive criticism and support for innovation. Ashton's passion for making a difference in the fire service shines through, making this episode both inspiring and informative for listeners interested in entrepreneurship and firefighter safety. Takeaways "I knew that I wanted to do something with firefighters because I grew up around it so much." "There's been over 500 deaths in firefighters because they're not seen on the side of the road." "The hope is that mine will be a little bit more serious than that with it being fireproof, waterproof, and rechargeable." "I figured there needed to be something to address that part of your body." "I just want to help people, like I..." "It's interesting seeing that level of hate from firefighters when a lot of times firefighters are the ones that are looked up to." "If you believe what you're doing is going to help somebody, keep doing it." "I want to get on Shark Tank. That'd be awesome." "I have a provisional patent, by the way." "The biggest part of Safe Stride is that it just increases accountability, like all around." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ashton Hampshire 01:49 The Inspiration Behind Safe Stride 02:55 Developing the Product: Challenges and Innovations 09:02 Shark Tank Competition Experience 13:08 Feedback from Firefighters and Testing Plans 18:21 Addressing Concerns About Visibility in Smoke 22:17 The Importance of Positive Feedback and Support 26:02 Navigating Negativity in the Fire Service 34:04 Navigating Negativity in Firefighting 35:59 The Importance of Innovation and Safety 37:48 Visibility Challenges for Firefighters 42:26 The Role of Technology in Firefighter Safety 46:55 Future Innovations and Entrepreneurial Aspirations 52:49 Closing Thoughts on Community and Support https://thekitchentablefoundation.org/ https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/ https://www.thecanreportpodcast.com/ https://safestride.us/

    1h 12m

Ratings & Reviews

4
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

The C.A.N. Report is a mission to bring the fire service and first responder community of New Hampshire to the masses. NH has such a rich history in the fire service, and so many talented individuals within the state. My mission is to bring those departments and people to light. Of course, the fire service community spreads nationwide and we are all family. So along with speaking with my fellow brothers and sisters within NH, I am inviting all of my brothers and sisters from around the Nation to tell their stories, share their knowledge and passion to all of us.

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