Trial by Fire: Untold Stories

In this episode, RJ and Jared sit down with Kurt Shoenfeld, a firefighter deeply connected to his community. Kurt spent seven fulfilling years forming unbreakable bonds and unforgettable memories at the firehouse, friends' houses, and local bars. After moving to a quieter area with his wife in 1989, Kurt's passion for firefighting drew him back. He joined the Kettering Fire Department in Ohio, where he found renewed pu...

In this episode, RJ and Jared sit down with Mike Philibin, whose journey into emergency services began after a family accident sparked his interest. Starting at 14 with the Boy Scouts' Explorer's Program, Mike combined high school with fire school training, becoming a certified firefighter right after graduation. He dedicated years to his local fire department, where his mother also served, all while pursuing higher ed...

Join hosts RJ Snider and Jared Buckley in this compelling episode of "Trial By Fire" as they sit down with Anthony Fleming, Chief of the Fallowfield Township Volunteer Fire Department. Anthony shares his upbringing in the fire service, how it has evolved, and the experiences that have shaped him. He discusses the unique challenges of volunteer service, from fundraising to dealing with tough calls. Anthony opens up about seeking hel...

In this episode of Trial by Fire, we delve into the groundbreaking research of Ann Light, a former curriculum developer at the State Fire School at Bowling Green University in Ohio. Ann has dedicated her career to exploring leadership in the fire service, with her dissertation focusing on metropolitan fire chiefs and their journeys to becoming effective leaders.

Through extensive interviews with fire chiefs from across the nation, ...

Tune in to this episode featuring Kevin Sears, a Battalion Chief in the Chicago metro area with a lifelong dedication to the fire service. Kevin shares valuable leadership insights and lessons learned throughout his career, rising through the ranks to his current role. He discusses his journey, including a harrowing experience where he was trapped in a burning garage, offering a compelling narrative of lessons learned and leadershi...

In this episode of the Trial By Fire Podcast, Scott Smith speaks about his career journey through the fire service. Scott has served in a shift work role, fire department leadership role, fire inspector, administrative, and ultimately serving as Chief. Scott's vast experience in the fire service gives him a unique perspective. Listen in as Scott provides solid advice and key takeaways from his career as a firefighter.

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In this episode of Trial By Fire: Untold Stories, Captain Matt Sherrill from the Dayton, OH Fire Department shares his approach to cultivating a strong team. Matt dives into his leadership philosophy, revealing how he continually strives to improve himself and his crew. His insights on fostering growth, trust, and accountability offer valuable lessons for anyone leading under pressure.

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This podcast is ...

Lieutenant Dan Roudebush, a 30-year veteran of law enforcement, is with us in this episode. Lt. Roudebush has dedicated 16 years of his career to the Clinton County Sheriff's Office, where he now serves as the Lieutenant of Investigations. With 15 years on SWAT and expertise as a firearms and physical tactics instructor, Lt. Roudebush has a lot of experience to share.

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This podcast is proudly sponsored ...

Paul Andrix is a firefighter in the city of Dayton, Ohio. He began his career as a part-time firefighter and worked his way into a full-time position with The Dayton Fire Department. In this episode, we talk about the work-life balance, current challenges in the fire service, and lessons learned through a career in the fire service.---

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This podcast is proudly sponsored by Howell Rescue Systems, Inc. an...

Rick Best is a former firefighter for the city of Westerville, OH. He has been an Advocate Manager for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and an instructor at the State Fire Academy. 

Currently Rick runs the firefighter program at Eastland - Fairfield Career Center.

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This podcast is proudly sponsored by Howell Rescue Systems, Inc. and Jared Buckley, Fire Chief Coach. For more information, pleas...

In this powerful episode of Trial By Fire: Untold Stories, hosts RJ and Jared sit down with Alison Fienning, a licensed mental health clinician and founder of the largest first responder-exclusive mental health agency in Ohio. With firsthand experience and deep connections to the fire service, Alison shares insights into the mental health challenges firefighters and first responders face, the st...

In this episode of Trial By Fire: Untold Stories, we dive into the incredible journey of Todd Howell, the man behind Howell Rescue Systems and Crash Course Village—two names that have shaped the fire service for decades.