Joined on this episode by Mike Torres, firefighter, instructor, and all-around fire service powerhouse! With over two decades of experience and a passion for mentorship, Mike brings a wealth of knowledge from the streets of Chicago to the training grounds across Illinois. We plan to dive into the evolution of fire service culture, the importance of departmental identity, and how to build loyalty and morale in today’s crews. As always, the best laid plans was hijacked by the amazing audience, whose questions and comments always steer the Scrap into new territory!

Joined on this episode by the one and only Scott Huff and it promises to be a fun discussion. We discuss building and developing officers in the modern fire service and how to overcome the challenges that presents. We discuss the dangers of water response and the impact it has had. Developing a response plan and common mistakes that are made. We talk about resources that are available and how to take advantage of those resources. Of course as always, the best laid plans of me and the guest are always beautifully derailed by the great questions from the audience as they take control of the Scrap!

Joined on this episode by not just one phenomenal fire service leader, but for the first time in the history of the Scrap we had dual guests as Anthony Kastros and Frank Viscuso both came on the Scrap! It was a mini-mega on leadership and command and it promises to be an amazing show. We planned to discuss Incident Command, Officer Development, Conflict Resolution as well as the new class that they are developing that touches on these topics. Of course it does not matter what we planned to discuss because the beautiful audience as always brought the heat and were there to guide and derail the conversation in their awesome way!! It was a one of a kind Scrap and you will enjoy!

Joined on this episode by the one and only Brendon McDonough and holy smokes...this episode was powerful!!!! We start by discussing the new leg of his journey as he is about to complete his first year as a Firefighter. From there we start moving into his journey and all that he has gone through and it is powerful! We plan to discuss the power that love, servant leadership, perseverance and passion played in it. Of course the Scrap is always driven by the phenomenal questions of the live audience... and this was no exception. Donut crushes it and it is well worth the listen!!!

Joined on this episode by MR. Keep the First Things First himself, Helton Pereira and I am excited for everything we plan to cover! On the agenda was the topic of keeping first things first and Helton's approach to faith, family, fitness and firefighting. We discuss how important a strong base is for doing this job and doing it well for a long time. We dive into what legacy means and what it really is. Of course the planned discussion never lasts long because the wonderful questions from the live audience always take over the Scrap. So enjoy the episode!!!!

Join us for another Episode of the Scrap, this time with Marshall Boyd, a 23-year veteran of two small fire departments south of Houston. We discuss imposter syndrome, sharing how he’s worked to impact his corner of the fire service despite feeling like “no one from nowhere.” Marshall explores the shift in firefighting tactics over the years, and the process of making the change... from fiberglass poles to modern tools, and the importance of perspective in adapting to change. We discuss and compare career and volunteer firefighting, the mission remains the same regardless of pay. Marshall also covers leadership as influence, especially in volunteer settings where there’s no leverage, and why making the job personal drives his work. Expect insights on through-the-lock forcible entry and the challenges of moving from the truck to the buggy. And as always... our best laid plans were beautifully derailed by the awesome questions from the live audience!!!!

Get ready for an insightful episode of the Scrap!!! Welcoming back Battalion Chief Eric Wheaton! This episode dives into firefighter training methodology, emphasizing mechanics, consistency, and intensity to enhance work capacity and performance through linear progression. We’ll explore measurable training, targeting deficiencies, and the value of simultaneous search and suppression. Eric will share his perspective on the truck company mindset, reflecting on his first year as a Battalion Chief and the pursuit of excellence over promotions. Expect practical insights on using CrossFit as a fitness foundation for firefighters, embracing challenges to prepare for the demands of work and life, and finding balance in a high-stakes career. Eric will also touch on raising resilient kids and planning for life beyond the fire service, offering a relatable take on managing personal and professional growth. This conversation is packed with actionable takeaways for firefighters and anyone striving for improvement.
Join us LIVE on YouTube, Tuesday, September 9th at 8 PM CST. Bring your questions for Eric and be part of this engaging discussion. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights from a seasoned fire service leader!

Join The Weekly Scrap, Firefighter Podcast for an engaging episode featuring Captain Sean Gray, a veteran firefighter with Cobb County Fire & Emergency Services since 1993 and co-author of The Evolving Fireground: Research-Based Tactics. Host Corley Moore will explore Sean’s extensive experience, including his bachelor’s in Fire Safety Engineering, contributions to NFPA committees, and role on the UL Fire Safety Research Institute Advisory Board. Sean’s work as a Fire Engineering contributor and FDIC instructor brings practical insights to the fire service, focusing on modern fireground strategies and research-driven tactics. This episode offers firefighters and leaders a chance to learn from one of the profession’s respected voices. Tune in live on YouTube to join the conversation, ask questions, and gain valuable knowledge from Sean’s real-world perspective. The episode aired on September 2nd.