The First Things First

Episode 30 - Pre-Conference Check-In - Daniel Allis

In today’s episode, Daniel and I talked about the transformative power of prayer and community in the fire service. We also discussed the upcoming First Things First conf

Episode 30 - The 360 Within - Brent Cooper

In this episode, I had an amazing conversation with Brent Cooper about identity, faith, family, and healing. Brent shares how his experiences as a firefighter, husband,

Episode 29 -Faith, Baptism, and FIREMANSHIP - Michael Magruder

On this episode, Michael Magruder, a firefighter from Colorado, shares how his complicated upbringing, military service, church hurt, and a difficult season at home event

Episode 28 - Embracing Purpose, Peer Support, and Faith in Fire Service - Jeremie Humphrey

On this episode, I have a conversation with Captain Jeremie Humphrey about stepping into firefighting later in life, the importance of peer support, mental health, and fa

Episode 27: Jesus & Mental Health - Derrick Carlisle

summary In this episode, Derek Carlisle and I explore the intersection of faith and mental health, emphasizing that struggles are part of the human experience even for C

Episode 26: Thin Line Believers - Adam Kowing

On this episode I had a great conversation with Adam Kowing, a law enforcement officer who may not wear the same uniform as me, but has a similar mission on his front lin

Episode 25: Jamey Brice

In this episode, I invited my friend Jamie Bryce to share his powerful journey of faith, resilience, and hope after experiencing the devastating loss of his children in a

Episode 24: The Salty Rookie - Nichole O'Donnell

In this episode, Nicole O'Donnell shares her powerful story of overcoming childhood trauma, addiction, and mental health struggles to find purpose in the fire service. Ho

Episode 23: The Overhaul - Preston Lyons

In this episode, Preston Lyons talks about his journey to becoming a firefighter, the importance of putting family first, and how he found the love for the job by attendi

Episode 22: The Dad Shift - Tanner Carroll

In this powerful episode, Tanner shares his raw and inspiring story of battling mental health struggles, the importance of faith-based resilience programs, and how God tr

Episode 21: Called to Lead - Colby Rich

In this episode, I got a chance to chat with Colby Rich, a bi-vocational pastor who became a firefighter. We discussed the challenges and rewards of balancing these respo

Episode 20: Faith in the Firehouse - Daniel Allis

In this episode, I have a conversation with Daniel Allis, host of Faith in the Firehouse Podcast. We talked about his journey from a normal childhood to becoming a firefi

Episode 19: Season 2 Solo

In this episode of The First Things First show, I open season two with a solo podcast, focusing on the importance of prioritizing your purpose in the fire service. I will

Episode 18: Suffer-Up -Nate Beuschel

In this episode, Nate Beuschel discusses the challenges and rewards of his career, the importance of mentorship, and his personal struggles with mental health and identit

Episode 17: Next Level Dad Fitness - Fernando Benitez

In this episode, I sat down with Fernando Benitez from Next Level Dad Fitness. Fernando shares how his passion for faith, family, fitness, and firefighting drives everyth

Episode 16: Faith, Family, Freedom - Griffin Coiner

In this episode, Griffin Coiner, a firefighter and founder of Stash Salt, shares about his journey into the fire service, his faith, and the importance of family. Griffin

Episode 15: The Decon Project - Pat Long

In this episode, Patrick Long discusses his journey as a firefighter, his faith, and the importance of being mission-minded in both personal and professional life. Pat op

Episode 14: Forged in Darkness - Derrick Carlisle Jr & Paul Floyd

In this engaging episode, Derek Carlisle and Paul Floyd from Forged in Darkness discuss their journeys in the fire service, their Christian faith, and the importance of m

Episode 14: Forged in Darkness - Derrick Carlisle Jr & Paul Floyd

In this engaging episode, Derek Carlisle and Paul Floyd from Forged in Darkness discuss their journeys in the fire service, their Christian faith, and the importance of m

Episode 13: Anthony Gillan

In this episode, Ret. Captain Anthony Gillan explores the journey of a firefighter, from military service to the challenges faced in the fire service. Anthony shares his