Episodes

  • The Performance Improvement Model & Accountability
    Feb 20 2025

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    This episode features Nick Brunacini, Terry Garrison and John Vance.

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    This episode was recorded at the AVB CTC in Phoenix, AZ on February 12, 2025.

    This episode delves into the critical role of accountability and improvement in firefighting leadership. Our hosts discuss how setting expectations, providing training, monitoring performance, and fostering a positive culture can enhance team dynamics and operational efficiency.

    • Exploring the positive aspects of accountability
    • The importance of setting clear expectations
    • Training as a foundation for success
    • Monitoring performance without micromanaging
    • Building a culture that values personal responsibility
    • Community engagement as a facet of accountability
    • Transforming perceptions of accountability in leadership
    • Developing processes that support continuous improvement

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    1 hr and 9 mins
  • Incident Audio From Worcester, MA
    Feb 13 2025

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    This episode features Josh Blum, Chris Stewart and John Vance.

    We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0

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    This episode was recorded on February 11, 2025.

    Worcester Fire Department demonstrates what effective communication and incident management look like in action. With a robust incident action plan and seamless command transfer, every member of the team is prepared, engaged, and ready to respond to challenges, ensuring success in real-time crisis management.
    • Worcester Fire Department's journey with Blue Card incident command
    • Importance of initial radio reports in setting the tone
    • Effective incident action plans guide the team's response
    • Continuous training and improvement pave the way for excellence
    • Smooth command transfer maintains operational continuity
    • The impact of cohesive communication on firefighting outcomes
    • Engaged leadership promotes accountability and professionalism
    • Community service enhanced through superior preparedness

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    47 mins
  • Incident Audio with Rescue from Fairfield, Ohio
    Feb 6 2025

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    This episode features Josh Blum and John Vance.

    We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0

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    This episode was recorded on February 3, 2025.

    Today's discussion focuses on a multifamily fire incident in Fairfield, Ohio, showcasing the use of the Blue Card command system and effective communication. We explore the coordination between multiple fire departments, the execution of rescues, and the importance of maintaining a unified incident action plan for successful emergency responses.

    • Breakdown of the Fairfield fire incident and initial challenges
    • Importance of training under a unified command system
    • Analysis of dispatch audio for situational awareness
    • Victim rescue operations and prioritization of life safety
    • The collaboration among multiple fire departments during the response
    • Reflection on the tactical truth behind effective incident management

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    42 mins
  • After Action Reviews
    Jan 30 2025

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    This episode features Erik Phillips and John Vance.

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    This episode was recorded on January 27, 2025.

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    30 mins
  • Technical Rescue
    Jan 23 2025

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    This episode features Grant Light, Josh Blum and John Vance.

    We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0

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    This episode was recorded on January 16, 2025.

    A technical rescue operation at a Duke Energy smokestack highlights the critical importance of communication, teamwork, and planning in emergency situations. The coordinated efforts of multiple teams allowed for the safe extraction of a worker trapped 150 feet in the air.

    • Overview of the emergency call and initial fire department response
    • Assessment of the worker's situation and elevator stability
    • Communication with technical experts for real-time updates
    • Formulation of a rescue strategy with a focus on safety
    • Use of crane technology over alternative rope rescue methods
    • Successful communication between rescue teams on-site
    • Post-incident debriefing to assess response and identify lessons learned
    • Importance of training and understanding equipment in rescue scenarios

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    48 mins
  • Current Events & Staffing
    Jan 17 2025

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    This episode features Nick Brunacini, Terry Garrison and John Vance.

    This episode explores the complex relationship between fire departments and local governments, focusing on the struggles fire chiefs face in securing resources for their teams amidst rising wildfire risks. The conversation delves into historical context, misinformation, and the importance of community engagement in public safety.

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    This episode was recorded at the AVB CTC in Phoenix, AZ on January 15, 2025

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    1 hr
  • Silverback Leadership Module 1
    Jan 6 2025

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    This episode features Nick Brunacini, Terry Garrison and John Vance.

    Review and comment on the proposed NFPA 1700 standard here: https://www.nfpa.org/codes-and-standards/nfpa-1700-standard-development/1700

    We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0

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    This episode was recorded at the AVB CTC in Phoenix, AZ on December 6, 2024.

    This podcast explores effective leadership in the fire service with Nick Brunacini and Terry Garrison, focusing on the transformative concept of Silverback Leadership. The discussion highlights the vital role of fire chiefs as supporters of their teams, the evolution of training and recruitment toward inclusivity, and the alignment of leadership with community needs. It examines key topics such as the firefighter’s perspective, accountability, public trust, and the unifying mission of fire service work. Additionally, the podcast delves into the successful transition from private to fire department-operated ambulance services, showcasing how leadership can enhance service quality and employee conditions. Through engaging narratives, it underscores professionalism, ethical responsibility, and the importance of integrity in public service.

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    1 hr and 14 mins
  • NFPA 1700 and OSHA
    Dec 30 2024

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    This episode features Nick Brunacini, Chris Stewart and John Vance.

    Review and comment on the proposed NFPA 1700 standard here: https://www.nfpa.org/codes-and-standards/nfpa-1700-standard-development/1700

    Review the proposed changes to the OSHA standard on fire departments / fire brigades here: https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/federalregister/2024-02-05

    We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0

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    This episode was recorded at the AVB CTC in Phoenix, AZ on December 5, 2024.

    This episode dives deep into NFPA 1700, the standard for structural firefighting, and its ongoing revisions. We discuss the importance of public engagement in the comment period and the implications these standards have on safety, efficacy, and operations in the fire service.
    • Overview of NFPA 1700 and its significance
    • Recent developments and updates in the standard
    • Importance of the public comment period
    • Role of data and research in shaping standards
    • Connection between NFPA 1700 and OSHA regulations
    • Engaging firefighters in the standardization process
    • Reframing standards as an opportunity for enhanced safety
    • Establishing effective supervision during operations
    • Need for unified language in firefighting protocols
    • Call to action for firefighter engagement in standard updates

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    1 hr