On this episode, we are joined by Fire Chief Kris Childress of the Keowee Fire District in South Carolina. With 16 years in the fire service, Kris has built his career around leadership, mentoring, and maximizing performance in small departments.

As one of the youngest chiefs in his area, he brings a fresh yet grounded perspective on leading from the front, building trust within a team, and navigating the challenges that come with limited staffing and resources. We discuss leadership, mentorship, and what it takes to keep small departments strong and effective.

On this episode we’re joined by Firefighter Christopher Whyte from the Elizabeth Fire Department, who also serves as the CISM Team Coordinator for the New Jersey FMBA. With over 16 years in the fire service, including both volunteer and career experience, Chris brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for firefighter education and growth. He’s also the creator of Garden State Size Up, a platform dedicated to promoting fireground awareness, training, and leadership throughout New Jersey. We sat down to talk about his work, the importance of size-up, and how firefighters can sharpen their decision-making on the job.

On this episode of the Station Talk Podcast, we’re honored to welcome retired FDNY Firefighter Joseph Bonanno. With 21 years on the job, Joe has dedicated his life to the fire service both on and off the rig. Following the loss of his brother Michael, also of the FDNY, to suicide in 2012, Joe has become a strong advocate for firefighter mental health and wellness. He’s also the creator of American Firehouse Cuisine — a cookbook and cooking show that brings together his passion for firehouse cooking, nutrition, and brotherhood. We’re excited to talk about his journey, his mission, and the impact he continues to make in the fire service community.

Home - FDNY Firefighter/Chef Joseph T. Bonanno

On this episode, we sit down with Chief Dave Robertson to explore how chief-level officers can bridge the gap between frontline firefighters and white-shirt leadership. Chief Robertson dives into the dichotomy of leadership—balancing command presence with approachability—and shares insights on why hiring for character is crucial to building a resilient and effective team. We also discuss practical strategies to engage new fire officers and emphasize the ongoing importance of training and competency in shaping tomorrow’s leaders.

On this episode, Nick & Tom sit down with Battalion Chief Patrick Wirkus of the City of Elizabeth Fire Dept (NJ) to discuss chief officers as division supervisors on the fire ground. They discuss the premise of the concept, how and when to implement it and about his journey through continually learning in the fire service.

This conversation was based on his article "Using Chief Officers as Division Supervisors" published in Fire Engineering.

Chief Wirkus is also the owner of Division Command Training, LLC.

On this episode, we sit down with Firefighter Chris Maleta, the founder of Carry the Flag. Chris brings with him 17 years of experience and a mission-driven mindset that’s helped launch a brand that resonates with patriotism, service, and leadership. We’re excited to dive into his story, the purpose behind the brand, and the lessons he’s picked up along the way.

www.carrytheflagusa.com

On this episode, Nick & Tom sit down with Brandon Smith of Beating Disability Daily to discuss his time in the US Air Force, his injuries sustained from a rough landing while on a mission in the Middle East and how the injuries lead to physical and mental trauma for years following. Further, they discuss how Brandon overcame in the physical and mental injuries and how he is using his voice as a platform to help other veterans, and many others overcome the battles of mental and physical trauma they are experiencing.

In this episode of the podcast, I’m joined by Lieutenant Paul Patrikis, who brings 16 years of combined career and volunteer fire service experience and currently serves with the Simpsonville Fire Department in South Carolina.

Paul is also the owner of Paulie’s RX Burns. We dive into the world of wildfires—how they vary across different parts of the country—and explore the critical role prescribed burns play in protecting our communities and ecosystems.