VDFP Podcast

Virginia Department of Fire Programs
  • 5.0 (6)
  • EDUCATION

The Virginia Department of Fire Programs Podcast will cover topics that are relevant to the fire service today in Virginia and in some cases, across our nation. In weekly episodes, Training and Operations Branch Chief Jamey Brads and others from the VDFP Team will welcome guests to focus on information that could make a difference to your fire service journey.

  1. 5D AGO

    Leadership Changes and Priorities at VDFP

    Welcome to the VDFP Podcast! In this episode, Sandra Parker talks with newly-appointed Deputy Director Chief Jamey Brads and reappointed Executive Director Director Brad Creasy about key leadership changes at the Virginia Department of Fire Programs. Hear how these updates impact firefighters statewide, what's ahead for VDFP, and how the agency is working to improve training, support, and advocacy for Virginia's fire service. Subscribe:  Apple Podcasts  Spotify  Follow VDFP on social media: Facebook  Instagram  X/Twitter  LinkedIn  Questions? Ideas for future episodes? Contact pio@vdfp.virginia.gov  Learn more: www.vafire.com

    26 min

  2. JAN 27

    VDFP Website Gets Major Upgrade!

    For this episode of the VDFP Podcast, we welcome Will Merritt to discuss the upcoming launch of VDFP's redesigned website. Hear how user feedback shaped its intuitive new features—making it easier than ever to find training, grants, permits, and podcast episodes. Plus, learn about VDFP's move to a biweekly show format and how you can share your thoughts as the new site goes live. Subscribe:  Apple Podcasts  Spotify  Follow VDFP on social media: Facebook  Instagram  X/Twitter  LinkedIn  Questions? Ideas for future episodes? Contact pio@vdfp.virginia.gov  Learn more: www.vafire.com

    24 min

  3. JAN 13

    Behind the Scenes of a Federal Deployment

    In this episode of the Virginia Department of Fire Programs Podcast, Sandra Parker talks with Chief Jamey Brads about his recent deployment to Washington State, leading federal disaster response during major flooding. Hear practical takeaways on leadership, teamwork, and how these experiences strengthen Virginia's fire service. Subscribe:  Apple Podcasts  Spotify  Follow VDFP on social media: Facebook  Instagram  X/Twitter  LinkedIn  Questions? Ideas for future episodes? Contact pio@vdfp.virginia.gov  Learn more: www.vafire.com

    27 min

  4. JAN 6

    Building Partnerships in Virginia Emergency Response

    Welcome to the VDFP Podcast. In this episode, our guest is Jason Burrow, Deputy Director of Joint Operations and Emergency Management for the Virginia Department of Military Affairs. The discussion focuses on the vital partnership between Virginia's fire service and military agencies with insights into effective coordination, training, and the challenges of emergency management at the state level. Subscribe:  Apple Podcasts  Spotify  Follow VDFP on social media: Facebook  Instagram  X/Twitter  LinkedIn  Questions? Ideas for future episodes? Contact pio@vdfp.virginia.gov  Learn more: www.vafire.com

    26 min

  5. 12/30/2025

    Director Creasy on VDFP's Achievements and Future

    Director Brad Creasy, Executive Director of the Virginia Department of Fire Programs, joins us for a focused conversation about the agency's recent advancements and progress on ongoing challenges. Key topics include essential updates in firefighter pay and hands-on training, the agency's push for innovation, mental health initiatives and new funding that supports Virginia's fire service community. Subscribe:  Apple Podcasts  Spotify  Follow VDFP on social media: Facebook  Instagram  X/Twitter  LinkedIn  Questions? Ideas for future episodes? Contact pio@vdfp.virginia.gov  Learn more: www.vafire.com

    30 min

  6. 12/16/2025

    USAR Advocacy and FEMA Reform with Chief Ken Pravetz

    In this episode Chief Ken Pravetz joins us, sharing his journey from the Air Force to Chief the Virginia Beach Fire Department, and his involvement with Virginia Task Force 2, one of only 28 federal USAR teams. We address the critical challenges facing FEMA's USAR system, the evolving landscape of disaster response and the future of national emergency management policy providing insight into the complex realities confronting today's fire service. Subscribe:  Apple Podcasts  Spotify  Follow VDFP on social media: Facebook  Instagram  X/Twitter  LinkedIn  Questions? Ideas for future episodes? Contact pio@vdfp.virginia.gov  Learn more: www.vafire.com

    27 min

  7. 12/09/2025

    VDFP's New Training Approach and Division Realignment

    Welcome to the VDFP Podcast! In this episode, facilitator Sandra Parker, host Chief Jamey Brads, and VDFP Deputy Chief Michael Parris discuss the latest changes and the future goals for fire service training in Virginia. We share insights on agency realignment and leadership strategies in this behind-the-scenes look at how VDFP is working to better support firefighters all across the Commonwealth. Subscribe:  Apple Podcasts  Spotify  Follow VDFP on social media: Facebook  Instagram  X/Twitter  LinkedIn  Questions? Ideas for future episodes? Contact pio@vdfp.virginia.gov  Learn more: www.vafire.com

    30 min

  8. 12/02/2025

    Inside Virginia Beach's Structural Collapse School

    This episode features special guest Capt Jon Rigolo to discuss Virginia Beach's Structural Collapse School. Hear how this sought-after program delivers hands-on training and leadership skills for firefighters from local, state and regional teams, setting a national standard in rescue operations. Get updates on program growth, upcoming classes and the importance of teamwork in today's fire service. Subscribe:  Apple Podcasts  Spotify  Follow VDFP on social media: Facebook  Instagram  X/Twitter  LinkedIn  Questions? Ideas for future episodes? Contact pio@vdfp.virginia.gov  Learn more: www.vafire.com

    27 min
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5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

The Virginia Department of Fire Programs Podcast will cover topics that are relevant to the fire service today in Virginia and in some cases, across our nation. In weekly episodes, Training and Operations Branch Chief Jamey Brads and others from the VDFP Team will welcome guests to focus on information that could make a difference to your fire service journey.

Information

  • Creator
    Virginia Department of Fire Programs
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    67
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026
  • Show Website
    VDFP Podcast