Monday, May 6, 2013

FOTRUST PODCAST: Stephanie Denis Gatineau Province Canada

Lt. Stepahnie Denis, Gatineau Province Canada
While Larry Conley and I took a pause to grab some grub, we met two cool firefighters from Canada @FDIC. LT Stephanie (pronounced "STEF-ON) Denis, of Gatineau Province Canada. He and his co-worker Patrick traveled to FDIC to train and meet other firefighters from near and far. We had a great conversation about the fire service and he agreed to share some of it our readers and listeners here. There may be some minor differences in our organizations, but listen clearly to the many similarities. Almost everyone of our interviewees have been able to point one, if not more, person(s) who influenced them. That makes me know that we, who have been in the service for some time, have to be careful about those who are watching us and being influenced by us. Not just by what we say, but more importantly, by what we do and how we carry ourselves. I want to thank LT Denis, for taking the time out to share.

Click below to hear our short chat.


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Wednesday, May 1, 2013

FDIC 2013 - Here We Go Again


Had a great and informative time this week at FDIC 2013.  As always, a record crowd.  As always, a great place for firefighters and fire instructors to exchange ideas, learn and grow.



The session opened with a stellar ceremony and great words of encouragement and inspiration.  As with most important ceremonies and events the pipes and drum corps sound the clarion call to action and remembrance.  The corps is made up of Pipers and Drummers from all over the nation.

I found a great opportunity to chat with Sparky in his fire engine.  He gave a lesson on how to become "The Man:.  LOL  This great piece of Public Fire Safety Education equipment still draws a crowd and when the operator s a character themselves...well, you just have to watch.


The week has gone so fast we're going to post pictures (worth a thousand words) to catch you up.   Sat down to interview some great fire officers and instructors that we are posting for your listening pleasure and edification.  Be sure to check back periodically for them.

BRB...



FOTRUST PODCAST: BC John Mittendorf Los Angeles

A Great Fire Officer - BC John Mittendorf
With all of the great opportunities @FDIC to share and grow, you cannot help but get edified in the presence of a John Mittendorf.  I have know John for quite some time.  I have followed his career and work ethic for many years.  Many will value his lectures, articles and new book on Truck Company Operations


He is legendary for his description and detail of all truck company operations on the fireground. His publications and lectures are as entertaining as they are informative.  He is a frequent presenter at FDIC and across the nation.

But few may remember that he wrote a book on, "Facing the Oral Interview".  Pages I still peruse from time to time.  They have ageless wisdom inextricably attached to them.
 
I caught up with Chief Mittendorf, recently.  I asked him a few questions about Fire Officers and the Fire Service.  Click on the link below and take a listen to our chat.
 
Click here and listen to this episode