The crew rings in the New Year with laughs, real talk, and a full reset for 2026. From Unkie’s wild coin story (and the infamous “goats” detail) to a heartfelt moment of silence, this episode hits the perfect mix of firehouse humor and purposeful reflection. Then the guys revisit their 2025 “Word of the Year,” share what worked (and what didn’t), and lay down their 2026 words with intentions they’re ready to live out.

• Unkie breaks down the coin mishap and the ABH ship firefighter history behind the design

• New Year’s perspective check: “We’re 25 years past Y2K…” 🤯

• Quick roster update: Doug’s out handling family life (staying “present” like he promised)

• Housekeeping: Patreon updates + listener engagement plans

• Sponsors shout-outs: Unkie’s Seasonings + The Burn Box

• A meaningful moment of silence honoring fallen firefighters and recognizing expanded cancer-related benefits for families

• The crew revisits 2025 “Words of the Year” and reflects honestly on growth, balance, and reality

• 2026 “Words of the Year” revealed: Prioritize. Step Up / Step Out. Consistency. Evaluate.

• Snail Mail: Listener Zach’s word “Seek,” plus questions about Unkie’s book coming to Audible and a shoutout to Job Town Tools

• “Success is forged in the fire of discipline…”

• “If you can make yourself 1% better every day… you’re way ahead of the game.”

• “Faith, family, then fire… not the other way around.”

• “It’s okay if the only thing you did this year was survive.”

• Brian: Accountability (and the ongoing struggle with balance + order of priorities)

• Unkie: Discipline (and a reminder that surviving the year counts)

• Matt: Study (growth as a captain, but learning the hard lesson: out of sight = out of mind)

• Freddy: Consistency (consistent effort, but also “consistently busy” — learning when to breathe)

• Brian: Prioritize (Faith → Family → Fire + health and fewer “yes” commitments)

• Unkie: Step Up / Step Out (ownership + leaving behind what no longer serves)

• Matt: Consistency (compound interest in knowledge, relationships, and leadership)

• Freddy: Evaluate (take a breath, assess bandwidth, and refocus on what matters)

• Zach (Spotify): Word = “Seek” — seeking God to be a better man, husband, friend, future firefighter, and healthier overall.

• Listener question: Will Unkie’s book be available on Audible? Answer: Yes (in progress / TBD details).

• Billy (Job Town Tools): “Bosses should absolutely get their guys a little something.” Mentions Crew Packs designed for exactly that.

• Unkie’s Seasonings

  • Garlic & Herb currently sold out (because y’all crushed it)

  • Hickory Smoke Salt / “Salty Fireman” still available

• The Burn Box

  • Monthly fire service gear box: gloves, hoods, tools, stickers, turnout bags, and more

Drop your Word for 2026 in the comments and tell us why. One word. Real intention. Let’s revisit it together a year from now.

In This EpisodeQuote-Worthy Moments2025 Words Recap2026 Words of the YearSnail Mail ShoutoutsSponsorsCall to Action