Episode 66:Host Will Pederson and FDNY Firefighter Richard Mercado, explore the appointment of the new FDNY fire commissioner, discussing the unique requirements for leading the FDNY. They delve into the balance between EMS and fire service roles, emphasizing the importance of street credibility in leadership. The episode also highlights a personal story of a firefighter injured in the line of duty, underscoring the risks and realities faced by first responders. We also celebrate Rich's recent retirement! Join the conversation as they reflect on the evolving role of EMS in the fire service and the significance of tradition and community in maintaining firehouse morale.Hashtags:#FirefighterLife #FDNY #FireService #FirefighterPodcast #EMS #FireLeadership #FirstResponders #FirefighterCommunity #FireSafety #FirehouseTalk #originalfirefighter #firefighterpodcast #firefighter

Episode 65:In this episode we delve into the complexities of leadership within the fire service, focusing on the appointment of a new FDNY fire commissioner with a background in EMS. It explores the tension between identity and experience, questioning the impact of political narratives on the fire service's culture and standards.Takeaways:Fire service is driven by competence, courage, and commitment. Leadership should be based on experience, not identity. FDNY's new commissioner has a strong EMS background. Political narratives can undermine fire service culture. Identity should not overshadow operational credibility. The fire service values readiness and trust over labels. Diversity should enhance, not dilute, job standards. The appointment raises questions about leadership criteria. Firefighters prioritize skill and performance in emergencies. The episode challenges the role of identity in leadership.Chapters:00:00:00 Introduction and 2026 Outlook

00:03:00 FDNY's New Commissioner

00:09:00 Identity vs. Experience

00:15:00 Impact on Fire Service Culture

00:21:00 Conclusion and Audience EngagementHashtags: #fireservice #FDNY #leadership #EMS #firecommissioner #firedepartment #originalfirefighter #podcast #firefighter

Episode 64:Join hosts Will and Aaron in this special year-end edition of Original Firefighter as they reflect on the highs and lows of 2025. From celebrating the milestone of reaching 1,000 subscribers to discussing the year's most impactful events, including the Los Angeles wildfires and the rise of AI, this episode offers a comprehensive look back at the year. Tune in for insights, gratitude, and a hopeful outlook for 2026 plus a fun round of Christmas Movie Trivia where Aaron tries to stump Will. Don't miss the engaging discussions and heartfelt thanks to all our listeners and supporters. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!Christmas Movie Trivia Questions:

1. In Die Hard, what radio call sign does John McClane use?👉 “Roy” .2. Which Christmas movie includes a ladder rescue gone wrong (and a cat)?👉 National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation .3. What fictional town is terrorized by a creature who hates Christmas in How the Grinch Stole Christmas?👉 Whoville4. What 1946 film is traditionally shown on TV for 24 hours straight on Christmas Day?👉 It’s a Wonderful Life5. In Die Hard, what brand of truck is used by the terrorists during the heist?👉 Mercedes-Benz6. In Home Alone, what movie is Kevin actually watching when he says, “Keep the change, ya filthy animal”?👉 Angels with Filthy Souls (a fake movie created just for the film)7. In It’s a Wonderful Life, what business does George Bailey run?👉 Bailey Brothers Building & Loan8. In A Christmas Story, what is the name of Ralphie’s father?👉 The Old Man (never given a first name)9. In The Santa Clause, what number is the clause that turns Scott Calvin into Santa?👉 Clause #110. In National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, what song plays during the opening animated sequence?👉 “Christmas Vacation” by Mavis Staples11. In Die Hard, what floor is the Christmas party held on? 👉 The 30th floor12. In Home Alone, how many steps are on the front staircase Kevin sleds down? 👉 13 stepsSponsors:Strike the Box Pipes and Cigars iketheboxpipeandcigar.comCastle Contracting https://castleexteriors.net/Hashtags:#originalfirefighter #christmasmovies #firefighter #firedepartment #firehousefun #podcast #2025review

Episode 63:In this episode, we delve into the troubling culture of hazing within the firefighting community, spotlighting a harrowing incident in Marion County, Florida. Join us as we explore the broader implications of such practices on fire service culture, the fine line between tradition and abuse, and the urgent call for change. Discover how these events are reshaping the conversation around safety and camaraderie in firehouses nationwide.Sponsors:Strike the Box Pipe and Cigars https://www.striketheboxpipeandcigar....Castle Contracting https://castleexteriors.net/Hashtags:#firefighterpodcast #hazing #firefighter #florida #marioncounty #originalfirefighter #firedepartment #podcast

Episode 62:

In this gripping episode of "The Original Firefighter," host Will Peterson delves into two catastrophic fires that marked the Thanksgiving weekend. From the deadly high-rise blaze in Hong Kong, which claimed over 150 lives, to the multi-alarm warehouse fire in St. Louis, Missouri, Will provides an in-depth analysis of these tragic events. He explores the challenges faced by firefighters, the structural vulnerabilities that exacerbated the disasters, and the lessons that can be learned to prevent future tragedies. Tune in for a sobering look at the realities of firefighting and the resilience of those who risk their lives to save others.

Sponsors:

Strike the Box Pipe and Cigars https://www.striketheboxpipeandcigar.com/

Castle Contracting https://castleexteriors.net/

Hashtags:

#firefighterpodcast #fireapparatus #hongkongfire #stlouisfire#originalfirefighter #firedepartment

Episode 61:

Join host Will Peterson and guest Aaron Biby as they dive into the heart of Thanksgiving traditions and the challenges facing firefighters today. From the joy of family gatherings to the serious implications of staffing cuts in Aurora, Illinois, this episode covers it all. Discover how the firefighting community is responding to these changes and what it means for public safety. Plus, enjoy a light-hearted discussion on Thanksgiving meals and the quirks of holiday traditions. Tune in for an engaging mix of heartfelt gratitude and critical conversation.

Sponsors:

Castle Contracting https://castleexteriors.net/

Strike the Box Pipes and Cigars https://www.striketheboxpipeandcigar.com/

Hashtags:

#firedepartment #firefighterpodcast #firefighters #thanksgiving #thanksgivingfails #turkeyfire #originalfirefighter #firehousefun

Episode 60:

Join us in this entertaining episode as we honor our veterans, discuss the current government shutdown and dive into the world of firefighting portrayed in Hollywood. Our hosts, Will and Aaron, humorously critique and react to various firefighting scenes from popular movies and TV shows. From electrifying pool rescues to dramatic cliffside saves, they break down the realism and share their expert insights. Whether you're a firefighting enthusiast or just love a good laugh, this episode is sure to entertain and enlighten. Don't miss out on the fun and the fiery discussions!

Sponsors:

Strike the Box Pipes and Cigars: https://www.striketheboxpipeandcigar.com/

Castle Contracting: https://castleexteriors.net/

Hashtags:

#FirefighterReacts #FireServiceFails #HollywoodFireScenes #FirefightingCritique #FirefighterHumor #FirefighterLife #FirefighterInsights #FirefighterCommunity #FirefighterTraining #FirefighterFun #originalfirefighter

Episode 59:

Join hosts Will and Aaron on the Original Firefighter Podcast as they review recent events in the world of firefighting. This episode explores the intense experiences of Mayday calls, and the critical lessons learned from flashover events. With shout-outs to brave firefighters and insights into the challenges faced on the fireground, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the life and stories of those who run towards danger. We also have some fun reviewing your comments. Tune in for a mix of real stories and tributes to the heroes in the firefighting community.

Sponsors:

Castle Contracting: https://www.castleexteriors.net/

Strike The Box: https://www.striketheboxpipeandcigar.com/

Hashtags:

#mayday #flashover #originalfirefighter #firefighterpodcast #firefighting #firefighters #firstresponders #lafd #fdny