Fire command and leadership conversations for B Shifters and beyond (all shifts welcome)!
The B Shifter podcast with host John Vance analyzes what's needed to excel in fire service. Firefighters are a distinct breed. They're tough but caring, self-sufficient but team-oriented. This podcast focuses on helping fire commanders improve operating procedures. Josh Blum, Alan Brunacini, and Nick Brunacini of the Blue Card certification program share their expertise. The podcast covers serious topics and firehouse antics.
"Mayday" is the call no firefighter wants to hear. B Shifter speaks with Don Abbott, who devotes his life to preventing maydays. He created Project Mayday to study patterns and analyze operating procedures. Falls through the roof were once the number one cause of maydays for the Phoenix fire department. They're now number three after completing the Blue Card training programs.
The podcast compares mayday prevalence among career firefighters and volunteer firefighters. Leaders discuss solutions for the primary cause of maydays, which is separation from the hose line. The conversations are often tactical, with some episodes sharing a Timeless Tactical Truth.
Life in a fire command unit is a recurring topic. Guests explain the risks of captains who show favoritism. They provide valuable information on the mental health of firefighters. They also share essential tips for cancer prevention and work-life balance. B Shifter explores melting hearing aids, physiological strain, cardiovascular health, and PTSD.
Fire chiefs share less serious moments here too. One jokes about firefighters who sing in fire station intercoms. Another answered repeat 911 calls from a woman claiming to have seizures. After several trips to the home, they determined she was having an affair with her neighbor. She called 911 if her husband arrived to pretend her neighbor was helping her with an emergency.
B Shifter's stories of fire service are heroic and extraordinary. It's a life one must live to understand. This podcast unites fire department members and improves their life on the B shift.
Episodes