The Firehouse Tribune

On this episode, Nick & Tom sit down with retired FDNY Firefighter Tony Bonfiglio, where this is less about tactics and more about the why—the moments that stick with you long after the tones drop. Tony Bonfiglio, a 21-year firefighter with the Fire Department of the City of New York, to talk about the job, the firehouse, and the stories that shape you over a career.
Tony isn’t here to give a class or break down a fire—he’s here to talk like we all do at the kitchen table. The good calls, the tough ones, the funny moments, and the experiences that don’t always make it into the reports. We’ll also get into his journey as a self-published author and why he felt these stories needed to be written down and shared.

In this episode, we break down why physical readiness shouldn’t stop at day one. With CPAT pass rates showing that up to 1 in 3 candidates fail without proper preparation, it’s clear that fitness isn’t automatic—it’s maintained.
Through the lens of the 5 tools—preparation, discipline, adaptability, resilience, and leadership—we discuss why tying physical standards to promotion could improve performance, accountability, and culture across the fire service.
If the job is physical at every rank… should the standard be too?

Happy International Firefighters Day

New article! “Eaves & Soffits Under Fire Conditions: Technical Considerations for Fireground Size-Up and Suppression” link in bio.

On this episode of Station Talk, we talk with Gene Landers about the staffing reality many volunteer departments avoid. From the gap between members on paper and those who respond, to leadership accountability and tough conversations, this episode gets honest about what’s holding departments back.

Bottom line: If we avoid the hard conversations, we risk safety, culture, and the future of the fire service.

New article! “What is NFPA 1750? In Plain Language.” Link in bio. Check it out.

On this episode Nick & Tom sat down with Captain Alex Mitchum from Summerville Fire-Rescue. Alex has 13 years on the job and has built his career around engine company operations and, more importantly, mastering the basics that actually win fires.
In a fire service that sometimes chases the newest tactic or the flashiest training, Alex believes the fundamentals still matter. Stretching the first line, putting water on the fire, solid communication, and doing the simple things right under pressure.
We’re going to talk engine company responsibilities, common mistakes crews make, how officers should be training their people, and why getting back to the basics isn’t taking a step backward — it’s how you build solid, dependable firefighters.

Discipline isn’t about motivation but rather it’s about standards.

The reps you put in when nobody’s watching…
The routines you refuse to skip…
The habits you build day after day…

That’s what makes you someone others can count on when it matters most.

On the fireground, reliability isn’t optional. It’s earned.

Train with purpose. Show up prepared. Stay consistent.

Because discipline doesn’t just build strength,
it builds trust.

Why are so many firefighters constantly exhausted—even when they’re not on shift? In this episode, we break down the real reason behind low energy levels on and off the fireground and why it’s not laziness.
Learn how consistency in training, nutrition, sleep, and cutting everyday “crutches” can completely transform your energy, performance, and mindset in as little as a few weeks.
Simple habits. Real results. Show up better for your crew, your family, and every call.