National Fire Radio Podcast Platform

In this episode, Mickey breaks down the term “taxpayer” in its truest form—where it came from, what it really means, and why it still matters on today’s fireground. From cellar fires to cockloft conditions, taxpayers demand a different level of awareness and discipline. We’ll dive into survival techniques, tactical considerations, and the realities of operating in commercial buildings where one wrong step can change the outcome. This isn’t theory—it’s street-level talk on how to stay alive and stay effective when the game shifts from residential to commercial.

Bobby Eckert joins Jeremy on the podcast for episode 426. The leader of Eckert Fire Tactics, his passion cannot be denied when it comes to his commitment to training firefighters. Focusing on realistic training, Bobby and his crew are known for going all in on their students. Bobby has never been one to shy away from hard conversations and addressing the toxicity in the fire service. Admittedly, he has had personal struggles that he has had to focus on and he is making progress everyday. His willingness to be frank about what he has been dealing with can certainly help others who might be in a similar situation. Being so public, it certainly shines a light on him whether he wants it or not. Just like his training perspective, if his real life situations and lessons can help another firefighter, he is all in. A long time friend and early guest on the podcast back in August 2018, Bobby continues to make an impact on the fire service. 

Richard Ray, a Battalion Chief with the Durham, NC Fire Department and long time volunteer firefighter talks with Jeremy about his recent article in Fire Engineering magazine. His passion for the fire service spans decades and he reminisces about his early years being influenced by his grandfather and then, his father. Today, his children are now the fourth generation in the fire service and Richard is proud of the family’s love for the fire service. Thinking back to a time when he became and instructor, an encounter with Andy Fredericks set the table for his passion for teaching and making an impact on others. 

Mickey sits down to talk about the weight of memorials in our fire houses. He stresses the responsibility of maintaining them, knowing the stories of the brothers who came before us, and teaching the next generation that September 11th is not a celebration — it’s a day of remembrance.

Mickey sits down with Etan Blatt from the 34.3 Foundation — an organization built on honoring sacrifice, restoring pride, and giving new life to firefighters who may feel lost. The conversation dives into the rebirth the Foundation offers for those searching for purpose, while also showing the newest members of the FDNY what it truly means to be a New York City firefighter. They talk about patriotism through the lens of September 12 — the day after, when resilience and brotherhood defined the job — and how those lessons still carry weight today. Etan and Mickey also break down the 34.3 Foundation Run: the powerful tradition of running from Long Beach to the Trade Center on September 11, as well as the new 3.43-mile run in Long Beach — both uniting the community, raising support, and keeping the spirit alive.This episode is about tradition, rebirth, and the responsibility we all carry to keep the standard alive.

Jeremy and Deputy Chief Thomas Wieczerak walk around Rescue Co. 8 at Newark Liberty International Airport. This apparatus was a new concept and build for the Port Authority of Ny & NJ. Operating as a structural engine and outfitted for rescue operations, Rescue Co. 8 has been a welcomed addition to the fleet on the airfield. For more information, check out the From Framerails to Finish film series featuring this Pierce Rescue from  @FireandSafetyNJ  .

Jeremy and Mickey sit down together on the porch where the conversation revolves around the concept of firefighter IQ and the importance of deep understanding and thinking in the fire service. They discuss the need for firefighters to go beyond just performing repetitive tasks and instead focus on developing a deeper understanding of the job. They emphasize the value of lectures and learning from experienced firefighters, as well as the importance of analyzing fire videos and using social media as a tool for education. The guys also discuss the significance of work ethic, attention to detail, and letting your tools do the talking.

"Go get the jug" refers to a container that holds rope and it's used to measure the stretch or ladder throws when taking time to walk the neighborhood. The saying has a rooted meaning that the opportunity for training can be as simple as walking the neighborhood with a piece of rope and we can capitalize on making the company better. Rich Stack, currently a Deputy District Chief and the Assistant Director of Training for the Chicago Fire Department knows the importance of simple drills. Finding time for training is important to Rich. His passion for protecting the core values of the Chicago Fire Department is strong, but, admittedly, the need for change in some regards presents issues when trying to implement. Rich talks about the recent General Order that came out which was widely discussed across the fire service. He discusses the implementation of these changes and how it continues to be a work in progress. Rich is excited to get back to the firehouse, back to the rank of Captain as his tenure at the academy comes to a close. His love of the job is evident in everything he does and his impact can be felt not just in the Chicagoland, but nationally. He works with On-Scene Training and his own company, Duty Pride Tradition Training. Even with over 25 years in the fire service, Rich continues to grow into the job while bringing those around him along for the ride. His humor and love of life is infectious and I'm honored to call him a friend.