The C.A.N. Report

Mike Goldstein

Welcome to The CAN Report Project! The channel dedicated to real conversations about fire service leadership, firefighter culture, toxic leadership, officer development, and modern fire training. This isn’t surface-level motivation. This is about fixing what’s broken inside the firehouse. On this channel, we cover: Fire service leadership development Toxic leadership in the fire service Firehouse culture reform Firefighter mental health & resilience Accountability in the ranks Officer and company officer growth Modern fireground tactics & training Ending complacency in the fire department Building strong, positive department culture If you’re a firefighter, company officer, chief officer, or aspiring leader who believes the fire service must evolve — this channel is for you

  1. 17h ago

    Episode 120 Fighting Through the Flood..Eric Wuensch

    In this heartfelt episode, Eric Wuensch shares his powerful journey through traumatic events, departmental changes, and the importance of mental health, family, and brotherhood in the fire service. His openness provides valuable lessons for first responders navigating similar challenges. This isn't just "another episode", It’s a conversation with a brother that I truly care for. He’s strong, humble and resilient. He’s had to deal with some tough situations and difficult decisions.With God guiding him, love in his heart and his family by his side…he’s come through on top. Eric Wuensch is coming back onto The CAN Report, to talk about his journey from leaving one department and moving onto a new one. Eric talks about his love for training, his love and respect for his mentors.Eric talks about responding to the 2025 floods in Texas, helping to bring the young girls from Camp Mystic to safety and the tragic loss of his Fire Chief who lost his life in the floods.Through all of this…Eric remains steadfast on his mission to help others, his faith and to cherish his family.Thank you Eric for returning as a guest, but more importantly for sharing your journey and being so open…my hope is for others to truly listen to what we have to say…and to understand that you are never alone in your struggles in life. Thank to my sponsors for making this episode possible. Engine House Designs LLC "Igniting the Pride" https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/ Industrial Protection Services https://www.ipp-ips.com/ Check out The Energy Drink- https://theenergydrink.com/ Make sure to enter "NOZZLE TOV" And get 20% off of your order!

    Episode 120 Fighting Through the Flood..Eric Wuensch
  2. 4d ago

    Episode 119 with Rob Ramirez- "Just a kid from a Miami"

    In this episode, Rob Ramirez, a passionate firefighter and instructor from Florida, shares insights from his nearly 25-year career, including building a new department in Jupiter, FL, and teaching globally in Germany. Discover how effective training, social media, and international collaboration are transforming the fire service. Not only is Rob the training Chief for the Jupiter,FL fire department, he is also the owner of Mayday Mindset. Mayday Mindset was created out of passion and a desire to give back to the fire service. His training company has taken him all over the United States and now Germany! Rob talks about the new adventure of helping to build a new fire department from the ground up and how to utilize social media as a recruitment tool. Rob shares his excitement with the first time teaching at one of the biggest fire conferences in the United States...FDIC. Though he has a accomplishment so much, Rob still reflects on being true to his roots and to those who invested in him and believed in him when he first began his career. Make sure to follow Rob Ramirez on Social Media and check out Mayday Mindset at many fire training conferences throughput the country. Don't forget to check out The Energy Drink, sign up to be an affiliate to earn discounts and extra cash. Or if you are in need of some more drinks or swag...enter NOZZLE TOV to receive 20% off of your order. https://theenergydrink.com/ Check out Engine House Designs for all of your needs for hats, t-shirts, stickers and more! https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/

    Episode 119 with Rob Ramirez- "Just a kid from a Miami"
  3. Jul 21

    Episode 117 Fully Involved with Mark Von Appen

    In this episode, Mark Von Appen shares insights on leadership, operational integrity, and the importance of culture in firefighting. Discover practical advice on building trust, handling negativity, and inspiring the next generation of firefighters. Mark Von Appen is a fire service professional with over 25 years of experience, having served as a company officer for the City of Palo Alto Fire Department. He is known for his direct and relatable style, emphasizing practical, actionable leadership that shapes organizational culture. Mark's philosophy revolves around accountability, moral courage, and trust-building in high-stakes environments. Mark’s leadership philosophy centers around what he calls the "Big Four": 1. Do Your Job: Commitment to excellence in your role is crucial. 2. Treat People Right: Respect and integrity should guide all interactions. 3. Give All-Out Effort: Dedication and hard work are non-negotiable. 4. Maintain an All-In Attitude: Fully commit to your team and mission. Mark explains that applying these principles can transform a team's dynamics. For example, by treating team members with respect and encouraging open communication, leaders can create a more engaged workforce that is willing to go above and beyond. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Mark Von Appen 02:57 Mark's Journey in the Fire Service 05:14 Lessons from Early Experiences 06:08 The Importance of Training and Skill Development 06:19 Navigating Negativity and Building Resilience 07:46 The Role of Passion in Leadership 08:01 Creating a Supportive Culture 08:46 The Evolution of Fully Involved 10:32 Writing and Sharing Experiences 11:16 Advice for Aspiring Writers 12:02 Conclusion and Future Endeavors @fullyinvolvedofficial https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/ https://www.ipp-ips.com/

    Episode 117 Fully Involved with Mark Von Appen
  4. Jul 14

    Episode 115 with Sons of Iron LLC, Jake Dickes

    In this episode, Jake Dickes shares his journey, training philosophies, and insights on leadership, continuous learning, and department improvements. Discover practical tips on honing skills, embracing data-driven decisions, and fostering a passionate fire service culture. Jake Dickes began his firefighting career alongside his father in 2003 as a volunteer in northern Colorado. He quickly became immersed in the complexities of the job, leading him to pursue a career position in Boulder County. Over the years, Jake has dedicated himself to mastering fire ground operations and has served as a Captain in his department. As the founder of Sons of Iron LLC, he is committed to developing and delivering progressive fire tactics and hands-on training to firefighters nationwide. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jake Dickes and Sons of Irons 04:17 The Birth of Sons of Irons 05:50 Jake's Journey in the Fire Service 07:47 The Changing Landscape of Fire Service Recruitment 09:56 Navigating Social Media as a Firefighter 11:32 Addressing Criticism and Embracing Feedback 16:30 Expanding Training Focus Beyond Forcible Entry 18:08 The Importance of Continuous Learning and Conferences 21:39 Hands-On Learning and Mentorship in Fire Service 22:55 Influential Mentors and Their Impact 27:17 The Importance of Leadership and Learning from Negativity 32:25 Continuous Learning and Recommended Resources 36:23 Improving Skills and Department Practices 44:33 Understanding Equipment and Its Application 50:57 The Value of Open Conversations in Fire Service Thank you to my Sponsors: Engine House Design... Ignite the Pride https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/ Industrial Protection Services https://www.ipp-ips.com/

    Episode 115 with Sons of Iron LLC, Jake Dickes
  5. Jul 11

    Episode 114 with Ian Bruzenak of Colorado Springs Fire Dept.

    In this episode, I had a great conversation with a Fire Service "OG" Ian Bruzenak. Ian Bruzenak is a dedicated firefighter with years of experience in the fire service. Having transitioned from the East Coast to Colorado, Ian has built a career grounded in practical training and education. He is actively involved in teaching various firefighting techniques, including ladder operations and search strategies, and is a key instructor for the Irons and Ladders program. Ian shares invaluable insights on fireground tactics, ladder operations, roof cutting techniques, and the importance of continuous training. Discover practical tips, mental models, and lessons learned to enhance firefighter safety and effectiveness. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background of Ian Bruzenak 02:55 Journey into the Fire Service 05:18 Training and Development in Firefighting 08:05 Ladder Classes and Techniques 11:14 The Importance of Ground Ladder Work 13:44 Search Techniques and Strategies 16:36 Split Search and Its Acceptance 19:14 Learning from Mistakes and Humility 22:19 The Role of Training and Continuous Improvement 24:56 Tool Issues and Saw Usage 32:47 The Importance of Skill in Roof Operations 35:59 Training Techniques for Effective Roof Ventilation 41:33 Body Mechanics and Efficiency in Firefighting 47:59 Improving Visibility and Safety During Fire Attacks 53:25 Leadership and Training in the Fire Service Thank you to my sponsors for making this episode possible: Engine House Designs-Igniting the Pride https://www.enginehousedesigns.com/ Industrial Protection Services- https://www.ipp-ips.com/

    Episode 114 with Ian Bruzenak of Colorado Springs Fire Dept.

Ratings & Reviews

4
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

Welcome to The CAN Report Project! The channel dedicated to real conversations about fire service leadership, firefighter culture, toxic leadership, officer development, and modern fire training. This isn’t surface-level motivation. This is about fixing what’s broken inside the firehouse. On this channel, we cover: Fire service leadership development Toxic leadership in the fire service Firehouse culture reform Firefighter mental health & resilience Accountability in the ranks Officer and company officer growth Modern fireground tactics & training Ending complacency in the fire department Building strong, positive department culture If you’re a firefighter, company officer, chief officer, or aspiring leader who believes the fire service must evolve — this channel is for you

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