Episodes

  • NJ Fire Guys Run#: 25-003 Chief Bill Kramer

    NJ Fire Guys Run#: 25-003 Chief Bill Kramer
    Feb 14 2025
    NJ Fire Guys
    Run#: 25-003
    Date: Feb. 13, 2005
    Guest: Fire Chief William Kramer Jr.

    Chief William Kramer Jr. has lead a career spanning five decades, Chief Kramer’s impact on fire and emergency services is nothing short of extraordinary. From his early days as a junior firefighter following in his father’s footsteps to leading the Cinnaminson Fire Department as both a volunteer chief and later as Fire District Administrator, his dedication to the fire service has shaped not only his department but also fire protection and emergency response across the state. Under his leadership, Cinnaminson Fire District #1 achieved an ISO 2 classification, established a thriving EMS division, and expanded its career and volunteer ranks to meet the growing needs of the community.

    Beyond his local service, Chief Kramer has been a major force at the state level, serving as New Jersey’s State Fire Marshal and Division Director of Fire Safety. His tenure saw the implementation of key fire safety legislation and responses to some of the state’s most significant incidents. Even in retirement, he continues to support the fire service through leadership roles in professional organizations, mentoring the next generation of firefighters, and yes—keeping things safe at Lincoln Financial Field with the Philadelphia Eagles. Join us as we dive into his incredible journey, the lessons he’s learned, and the legacy he leaves behind in the fire service.
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    1 hr and 42 mins
  • NJ Fire Guys Run#: 25-002 w/ Chief Mike West

    NJ Fire Guys Run#: 25-002 w/ Chief Mike West
    Feb 7 2025
    NJ Fire Guys
    Run#: 25-002
    Date: Feb. 6, 2025
    Guest: Fire Chief Michael West ⠀

    Chief Michael West is a fourth generation firefighter, with over 40 years of fire service experience. Beginning his journey in 1982 with the Monmouth Beach Volunteer Fire Co. and working fulltime as a fire dispatcher with the Monmouth County Sheriff’s Office starting in 1987. In 1988 he moved to Colorado and transitioned to firefighting with the Eagle River Fire Protection District. In 1990, he joined South Metro Fire Rescue, where he dedicated nearly three decades, rising through the ranks to District Chief and Tour Commander, a role in which he oversaw 46 fire companies working across 5 Battalions out of 29 fire stations protecting over 500,000 residents. In 2019, Chief West left South Metro and has been serving as the Fire Chief of Front Range Fire Rescue in Colorado, leading the department with a commitment to excellence in service, safety, and professional development. ⠀

    Beyond his leadership roles, Chief West is passionate about firefighter training and education. Mike holds a Master’s Degree in Communication from Seton Hall University. He also holds degrees in management and fire science. As the owner of Fired Up Training Service LLC, he provides specialized instruction designed to enhance operational effectiveness and leadership skills in the fire service. His decades of experience and deep understanding of fireground tactics, command strategies, and mentorship make him a valuable voice in the industry. In his spare time, Mike is a bagpiper, a Harley enthusiast, and an avid traveler.
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    1 hr and 32 mins
  • NJ Fire Guys Run#: 25-001 Chief Cobb "Empty Sky Empty Promises"

    NJ Fire Guys Run#: 25-001 Chief Cobb "Empty Sky Empty Promises"
    Jan 10 2025
    NJ Fire Guys
    Run#: 25-001
    Date: Jan. 9, 2025
    Guest: Dep. Chief Butch Cobb

    “Empty Sky, Empty Promises” ⠀

    Join us for a powerful episode of the NJ Fire Guys Podcast as we sit down with retired Deputy Chief Robert “Butch” Cobb to discuss the heart-wrenching story of “Empty Sky,” New Jersey’s official 9/11 memorial. Ceremoniously dedicated on September 10, 2011, this poignant tribute to the 749 New Jerseyans lost on September 11, 2001, was unveiled in the presence of notable figures like Governor Chris Christie, five former state governors, Senators Frank Lautenberg and Robert Menendez, and many more. Despite its significance, Chief Cobb sheds light on a sobering reality: the memorial has fallen into disrepair, remaining unfinished and poorly maintained, leaving families and citizens alike searching for answers. ⠀

    In this thought-provoking conversation, Chief Cobb shares his personal journey of turning grief into a mission, advocating for the care and completion of this sacred space. He reflects on the importance of honoring those who perished and ensuring their memories endure for future generations. Whether you’re a first responder, an advocate for historical preservation, or someone passionate about remembering the legacy of 9/11, this episode will inspire you to take action and join the call for accountability. Tune in to NJ Fire Guys Podcast Run#: 25-001 and discover how you can help preserve the story of “Empty Sky” and the lives it commemorates. ⠀
    #NJFireGuysPodcast #NJFireGuys #FirstResponders #NeverForget #EmptySky #JerseyCity #9/11 #Sept11 #NJ #GardenState #Firefighters #LawEnforcement #EMS #Corruption #FightforRight #Podcast #FirePodcast
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    48 mins
  • NJ Fire Guys Run#: 24-044 w/ Capt. Constantine Sypsomos

    NJ Fire Guys Run#: 24-044 w/ Capt. Constantine Sypsomos
    Jan 8 2025
    NJ Fire Guys
    Run#: 24-044
    Date: Dec. 26, 2024
    Guest: Captain Constantine Sypsomos ⠀

    Constantine Sypsomos is a seasoned fire service professional with extensive experience in emergency response, training, and public safety education. Currently serving as a Career Fire Captain in Deptford Township, he is the department’s Training Captain and liaison for highway response, traffic incident management, and active shooter/hostile threat response initiatives. A NJ Level 2 Fire Instructor and NJ EMT-Instructor, Constantine is also a certified Fire Official and Fire Investigator, bringing a wealth of expertise to his leadership roles. His passion for education extends to his position as Program Coordinator for the Fire Inspector/Fire Official Program at the Gloucester County Institute of Technology and as Training Officer for the NJ EMS Task Force-South Region. ⠀

    Beyond his department responsibilities, Constantine has dedicated himself to advancing public safety through instruction and public speaking. He has presented at prestigious events such as the National Conference for EMS, NJ Emergency Preparedness Conference, and National Collegiate EMS Foundation in Boston. With a parallel career in EMS, Constantine serves as an EMT for Gloucester County EMS and Cooper University Hospital EMS in Camden City. A committed union leader, he served as Secretary and Vice-President for IAFF Local 3592 from 2007 to 2023 and continues his advocacy as Vice-President of IAFF Local 5025. His diverse experience and leadership have made him a trusted voice in emergency services and an influential figure in fire and EMS education.
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    1 hr and 52 mins
  • NJ Fire Guys Run__ 24-042 w_ Deputy Chief Robert Beattie

    NJ Fire Guys Run__ 24-042 w_ Deputy Chief Robert Beattie
    Dec 13 2024
    NJ Fire Guys
    Run#: 24-042
    Date: Dec. 12, 2024
    Guest: Dep. Chief Robert Beattie ⠀

    Deputy Chief Robert Beattie, a distinguished 36-year veteran of the New Jersey fire service and the administrative Deputy Chief of the North Plainfield Fire Department in Somerset County. Rob began his journey in the fire service as a 16-year-old junior member of the Green Brook Volunteer Fire Company before joining North Plainfield’s volunteer call force in 1991. Following in his father Brian’s footsteps, he became a full-time firefighter in North Plainfield in 1999 and steadily rose through the ranks, serving as Captain, EMS Supervisor, and Training Officer before being promoted to Deputy Chief in 2021. Rob is also an experienced fire inspector and instructor, currently teaching in Somerset and Hunterdon Counties. ⠀

    Beyond his department duties, Rob has made an indelible impact on the broader fire service community. A longtime leader within the Professional Firefighters Association of New Jersey (PFANJ), he has served in various roles, including Vice President and local union President. He is an IAFF Peer Support Team member, a passionate St. Baldrick’s Foundation volunteer, and a leader in preserving fire service history at the North Plainfield Exempt Firemen’s Hall. Additionally, Rob contributes to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and serves as an IAFF instructor and Field Services Representative, exemplifying a lifelong commitment to service, education, and firefighter advocacy.
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    2 hrs and 10 mins
  • NJ Fire Guys Run#: 24-041 w/ Lieut Jim Aleski

    NJ Fire Guys Run#: 24-041 w/ Lieut Jim Aleski
    Dec 6 2024
    NJ Fire Guys
    Run#: 24-041
    Date: Dec. 5, 2024
    Guest: Jim Aleski ⠀

    Jim Aleski, a nearly 28-year veteran of the fire service who currently serves as a Lieutenant on Engine 1352 with the Cherry Hill Fire Department in Camden County, New Jersey. Jim’s fire service journey began in 1997 as a volunteer with the Melrose Hose Company of the Sayreville Fire Department, where he served over 12 years, holding ranks of Lieutenant and Captain. Since joining Cherry Hill Fire Department in 2007, he has been assigned to 5 of its 6 companies, gaining valuable experience across engine, ladder, and rescue operations. ⠀

    Outside of fire suppression, Jim brings a unique perspective from his decade-long career in the film and television industry, where he worked on high-profile projects like national commercials, network branding campaigns, and music videos. He’s leveraged his media expertise in the fire service, working as a Branding and Content Specialist at NEP Services, serving as the Communications Director for the PFANJ, and managing the social media presence for Cherry Hill’s IAFF Locals 2663 and 3198. ⠀

    Jim holds a Bachelor’s in Mass Communications from Emerson College and a Master’s in Fire and Emergency Management Administration from Oklahoma State University, where his thesis focused on how the fire service engages stakeholders through social media. He’s a sought-after speaker, sharing insights on media engagement and social networking tools for emergency services agencies at conferences and on podcasts like ‘Firehouse Problems, Kitchen Table Solutions’ and the IAFF’s ‘Kitchen Table.’ ⠀

    We’re excited to have Jim here today to share his wealth of knowledge and experiences!”
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    2 hrs and 14 mins
  • NJ Fire Guys Run#: 24-040 w/ Jeremy Donch

    NJ Fire Guys Run#: 24-040 w/ Jeremy Donch
    Nov 29 2024
    NJ Fire Guys
    Run#: 24-040
    Date: Nov. 28, 2024
    Guest: Jeremy Donch

    Some of you may know him as “Jeremy from National Fire Radio”, but Jeremy Donch got his start in Franklin Lakes Fire Department at an early age. While attending Marist College, Jeremy continued to follow his passion and volunteered at Fair View Fire District.

    In 2018 Jeremy took his passion to an entirely different level and started National Fire Radio. Today National Fire Radio has grown into an industry all its own, hosting podcasts, advertising progressive products technologies, assisting charities, and reinvigorating the passion for this job.
    #NJFireGuys #NFR #NatinalFireRadio #FirePodcast #Podcasting #GardenState #FiremanRoots
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    1 hr and 49 mins
  • NJ Fire Guys Run#: 24-039 w/ Chief Jeremy Rebok

    NJ Fire Guys Run#: 24-039 w/ Chief Jeremy Rebok
    Nov 22 2024
    NJ Fire Guys
    Run#: 24-039
    Date: Nov. 21, 2024
    Guest: Chief Jeremy Robok ⠀

    Fire Chief Jeremy Rebok exemplifies a lifelong commitment to fire and emergency services, having embarked on his journey as a firefighter at the age of 14. By 21, he was already serving as an Assistant Chief and live-in firefighter, laying the foundation for a distinguished 25-year career as an officer. A seasoned professional, Chief Rebok has seamlessly blended his roles as both a volunteer and career firefighter, dedicating over two decades to volunteer service while rising to the highest ranks in his field. Beyond the fire service, he has demonstrated leadership as the Head Varsity High School Girls Softball Coach, reflecting his passion for mentorship and community engagement. ⠀

    Chief Rebok’s federal fire service career began in 2001 at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. In 2014 he began his service with the Installation Management Command (IMCOM). This federal service includes progressive leadership roles across multiple Department of Defense installations. Since March 2024, he has served as the Fire Chief at Fort Detrick, following a five-year tenure as the Deputy Chief at the same installation. His prior assignments include leadership positions at Picatinny Arsenal, West Point, and other notable military facilities. With a proven track record of operational excellence, he has contributed to achieving CFAI accreditation for fire departments in 2019 and 2024, earning multiple awards, including two Civilian Service Commendation Medals and recognition as an Internationally Designated Chief Fire Officer since 2016. ⠀

    Chief Rebok’s career reflects a deep commitment to public safety, organizational excellence, and community service. His ability to lead across diverse operational environments, coupled with his dedication to professional development, makes him a respected leader in the fire service and a role model for the next generation of emergency responders.
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    1 hr and 54 mins