Undisclosed Agents Firefighter Podcast

Guest Eric Wheaton, 17-year fire service veteran, discusses optimizing firefighter training, open-mindedness in the fire service, mentoring, truck operations, and leadership development. He emphasizes continuous improvement, communication, and learning from diverse perspectives within the fire service community.

Kevin Pfluger is a 17 year veteran of the fire service and is currently a Lieutenant at the Live Oak fire department in Texas. Kevin is the President of the Live Oak Professional Firefighters Association Local 4098.  Through the local, Kevin is the lead organizer of the Dagum Texas Fire Conference. He teaches with MV Fire Rescue as the lead instructor teaching hose line management in their  class “The First Line” for the Engine Ops Cadre and helps teach firefighter rescue and survival skills on the “No Quit RIT” Cadre. Kevin is also an instructor with the Bearers of the Oath Cadre out of Georgia. When he’s not at the firehouse or instructing Kevin also works for Mercedes Textiles Hose as a Consultant, and sits on the UL 19 Technical Committee for Fire Hose. All that being said Kevin is as humble as they come. The conversation with him was not only entertaining, but also sparked questions inside of us that we discussed at length amongst ourselves after the show. He is the kind of guy that makes you want to be better at this job, period. This was an awesome conversation with an inspiring human being. Hope you enjoy the show. https://www.dagumtexasfireconference.com/ https://hortonsandhunt.com/

Listen to a seasoned firefighter share insights on building a positive circle of influence, enhancing fire chief training, and prioritizing accountability. Discover the evolution of packaging techniques, RIT training, and fitness standards in the fire service. Gain valuable tips on maintaining a work-life balance and showing gratitude in the profession.

Ljay Geist, a firefighter in West Kansas, discusses the importance of mentorship and aggressive firefighting tactics. They also delve into the challenges faced by company officers, the value of outside training and mentorship programs, and the significance of realistic training scenarios and community engagement. The speakers highlight the importance of genuine followership in leadership and share upcoming teaching engagements.

Brian Olson, a 15-year firefighter in Idaho and founding member of the Firefighter Rescue Survey, discusses the benefits of firefighters wearing body cameras and helmet cameras. He also talks about the importance of using prop doors for training, the significance of flashlights in search training, and finding work-life balance in the fire service. The chapter also touches on the origin of 'Tactics on Tap' and the importance of genuine participation.

Dr. Steven Nicholas, a licensed marriage and family therapist, discusses his book Warrior Servants, which explores mental health and trauma in demanding professions. They discuss the importance of proactive conversations about mental health in firefighting and the military, normalizing emotions in the firefighting world, building support networks, the significance of peer support in addressing PTSD, the impact of support after witnessing accidents, the burden of being called a hero, the role of an embedded clinician, transitioning and preparing for retirement in firefighting, and prioritizing mental health in the fire service.

Chief Dennis Reilly, an experienced fire service professional, discusses topics such as addressing complacency, tactical excellence, prioritizing fitness and personal growth, benefits of martial arts for firefighters, uncomfortable situations and officer development, feedback and professional development, emotional intelligence and leadership skills, and stepping out of your comfort zone for growth and excellence.

In this episode we sat down with Jennifer Rowan. Jen retired last October after spending  20 years working for the Reno Fire Department. During her time as a firefighter and apparatus engineer Jen spent a lot of time training. Not just training on strategies and tactics, but training her body to be able to withstand the rigors of this job and to preform at her peak. When she retired she took her passion for the fire service and her passion for physical fitness and created Academy Fitness Prep. AFP is a training/coaching program designed to help individuals train for the physical side of firefighting. Her programs specifically focus on movements and output that mimics fireground operations. Jen was an amazing guest her no bullshit attitude is a great reminder of TSAFE (this shit ain’t for everyone)! We covered many topics and had a great time. Also don’t forget to check out her website listed in the show notes.https://academyfitnessprep.com https://hortonsandhunt.com/

Former firefighter Marcos Orozco discusses his fitness journey, including becoming a Georgia Smoke Diver and instructing at conferences. They also talk about the importance of passion, mentoring, and staying humble in the firefighting profession. The chapter highlights the transition from Florida to Colorado, the benefits of a firefighting training program, and the transformative power of Jiu Jitsu. They emphasize the importance of staying fit and maintaining an active lifestyle as firefighters.

Cory Whitlock is an 18 year veteran of the fire service. He is currently a Battalion Chief in Northern Nevada, prior to his current posting Cory spent 12 years with the city of Las Vegas fire department and was a truck Captain out of station 1 downtown. Some where along the way he found the time between running a tremendous amount of calls, being a family man, and his union work both at the local and state level with the PFFN to become a PA as well, and is very close to completing his doctorate. Cory was a fantastic guest. We covered several topics ranging from the burden of leadership, accountability, and passion for the job which Cory has no shortage of. https://hortonsandhunt.com/