B Shifter

Across The Street Productions

Fire command and leadership conversations for B Shifters and beyond (all shifts welcome)!

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Our Editor's Take

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.

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EducationEducation

Episodes

Silverback Leadership Module 1
06-01-2025
Silverback Leadership Module 1
Send us a textThis episode features Nick Brunacini, Terry Garrison and John Vance.Review and comment on the proposed NFPA 1700 standard here: https://www.nfpa.org/codes-and-standards/nfpa-1700-standard-development/1700We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/BuckslipShop B Shifter here: https://bshifter.myshopify.comAll of our links here: https://linktr.ee/BShifterPlease subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!This episode was recorded at the AVB CTC in Phoenix, AZ on December 6, 2024.This podcast explores effective leadership in the fire service with Nick Brunacini and Terry Garrison, focusing on the transformative concept of Silverback Leadership. The discussion highlights the vital role of fire chiefs as supporters of their teams, the evolution of training and recruitment toward inclusivity, and the alignment of leadership with community needs. It examines key topics such as the firefighter’s perspective, accountability, public trust, and the unifying mission of fire service work. Additionally, the podcast delves into the successful transition from private to fire department-operated ambulance services, showcasing how leadership can enhance service quality and employee conditions. Through engaging narratives, it underscores professionalism, ethical responsibility, and the importance of integrity in public service.
NFPA 1700 and OSHA
30-12-2024
NFPA 1700 and OSHA
Send us a textThis episode features Nick Brunacini, Chris Stewart and John Vance.Review and comment on the proposed NFPA 1700 standard here: https://www.nfpa.org/codes-and-standards/nfpa-1700-standard-development/1700Review the proposed changes to the OSHA standard on fire departments / fire brigades here: https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/federalregister/2024-02-05We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/BuckslipShop B Shifter here: https://bshifter.myshopify.comAll of our links here: https://linktr.ee/BShifterPlease subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!This episode was recorded at the AVB CTC in Phoenix, AZ on December 5, 2024.This episode dives deep into NFPA 1700, the  standard for structural firefighting, and its ongoing revisions. We discuss the importance of public engagement in the comment period and the implications these standards have on safety, efficacy, and operations in the fire service. • Overview of NFPA 1700 and its significance • Recent developments and updates in the standard • Importance of the public comment period • Role of data and research in shaping standards • Connection between NFPA 1700 and OSHA regulations • Engaging firefighters in the standardization process • Reframing standards as an opportunity for enhanced safety • Establishing effective supervision during operations • Need for unified language in firefighting protocols • Call to action for firefighter engagement in standard updates
Carbon Monoxide Incident with Rescue
16-12-2024
Carbon Monoxide Incident with Rescue
Send us a textThis is part 2 in our series talking about Carbon Monoxide Incidents. This episode features incident audio with a rescue.This episode features John Eadicicco, Josh Blum and John Vance.Download the SOGsBlue Card Natural Gas SOGBlue Card Carbon Monoxide Incident SOGWe want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/BuckslipShop B Shifter here: https://bshifter.myshopify.comAll of our links here: https://linktr.ee/BShifterPlease subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!This episode was recorded on December 16, 2024.John Eadicicco Captain, Loveland-Symmes (Ohio) Fire DepartmentAssistant Chief, Lockland (Ohio) Fire DepartmentAssistant Chief John Eadicicco is a 27-year veteran of the fire service. He holds a degree in fire service administration from Columbia Southern University and is a graduate of the Ohio Fire Chiefs’ Association’s Ohio Fire Executive Program. Chief Eadicicco is a lead instructor for Blue Card’s SAFE-T Train-the-Trainer program. He is also a rescue technician with Hamilton County (Ohio) Urban Search and Rescue and an Ohio Region 6 Swift Water Response Team commander. Chief Eadicicco is lead instructor and curriculum developer with the Hamilton County Working Group, delivering Tactical Thermal Imaging, Company Officer Decision-Making, Rescue Operations, and Engine and Truck Company Operations classes.  In addition, Chief Eadicicco is an Ohio Certified Firefighter 2, Fire Instructor, Live Fire Instructor, Fire Safety Inspector and an EMT.
Silverback Leadership and Fire Department Dynamics
11-11-2024
Silverback Leadership and Fire Department Dynamics
Send us a textThis episode features Nick Brunacini, Terry Garrison and John Vance.We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://youtu.be/-Wb5lA6f1uwSign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/BuckslipShop B Shifter here: https://bshifter.myshopify.comAll of our links here: https://linktr.ee/BShifterPlease subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!This episode was recorded October 17, 2024 at the Alan V. Brunacini Command Training Center in Phoenix, AZ.Join John Vance, Nick Brunacini, and Terry Garrison as they unpack the remarkable dynamics between a fire department's administration and labor, showcasing the power of mutual respect and defined roles. Hear from Nick about the robust bond between a fire chief and union president, and how this unique partnership can revolutionize work and customer service standards.Reflect on the challenges faced during the COVID pandemic, particularly the vaccination mandate for paramedic students, as Terry Garrison shares a personal story of navigating resistance with openness and resolve. Discover the importance of collaboration with union representatives and how it mirrors other safety protocols, ensuring harmony even in adversity. This episode is packed with anecdotes that highlight the need for a structured chain of command, especially in smaller departments, to support the workforce and deliver exceptional community service.
Best of B Shifter: The "Other" Radio Reports
14-10-2024
Best of B Shifter: The "Other" Radio Reports
Send us a textThis episode aired originally on November 28, 2021.What is a CAN report, status change or priority traffic? What is the anatomy of a good roof report? We answer those questions plus tackle a Timeless Tactical Truth on this B Shifter! Nick Brunacini is the leader of B Shifter and Blue Card. He joined the Phoenix Fire Department (PFD) in 1980. He served seven years as a firefighter on different engine companies before promoting to captain and working nine years on a ladder company. Nick served as a battalion chief for five years, and in 2001, he was promoted to shift commander. He then spent the next five years developing and teaching the Blue Card curriculum at the PFD’s Command Training Center. His last assignment with the PFD was south shift commander; he retired from the department in 2009. Nick is the author of “B-Shifter—A Firefighter’s Memoir.” He also co-wrote “Command Safety.” Contact Nick Brunacini at nick@bshifter.com Josh Blum, Blue Card Program Manager and has been in the fire service since 1993. He began his service as a volunteer firefighter before accepting a full-time career position. Josh served as the deputy chief of operations for the Loveland Symmes (Ohio) Fire Department, where he measurably increased the department’s training and operational effectiveness. Josh retired from Loveland Symmes in 2020 and now works for Blue Card as the program manager in all aspects of curriculum development and program delivery. Josh continues to work directly with departments throughout Southern Ohio assisting with training and fire department operations. Josh has developed and managed many fire service training programs throughout his career. He is a graduate of the Ohio Fire Executive ProgramContact Josh Blum at josh@bshifter.com This episode is produced and edited by John Vance at johnvance@bshifter.comProduction Assistant, Katie Brunacini
Blue Card ARFF Module
23-09-2024
Blue Card ARFF Module
Send us a textWhether you’re department may respond to aircraft emergencies, have a small municipal airport or a bustling international hub, this resource offers a structured, certifiable incident command system designed to enhance coordination and efficiency.From the nuances of pre-incident information to the pivotal role of trained Incident Commanders (ICs), we cover the essentials of managing aircraft emergencies. Discover how standardized initial radio reports, strategic declarations, and effective communication with pilots and incoming resources can save lives and property. On this episode we talk about the tactical and strategic approaches necessary for handling these high-stakes situations, emphasizing risk management and the importance of prioritizing savable lives. This is a must-listen for anyone that may be involved in aircraft emergencies, offering invaluable insights that could make all the difference during critical incidents.This episode features Jeffery King, Chris Stewart and John Vance.We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/BuckslipShop B Shifter here: https://bshifter.myshopify.comRegister for the 2024 Hazard Zone Conference here: http://hazardzonebc.com/All of our links here: https://linktr.ee/BShifterPlease subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!This episode was recorded at the AVB CTC in Phoenix, AZ on September 10, 2024