Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast
Welcome to the Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast where we coach you to deal with the stressors of the job as a first responder as well as how to thrive off-duty.On the Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast we talk about positive ways to harness and increase human performance, how this applies to firefighters and first responders and dive into the concepts that lead to your overall health, happiness, and physical and mental health. Topics covered will include human performance psychology, sports psychology, bodies response to stress, mental fitness, physical fitness, recovery techniques, breathing practices and how to be mindful even in the most...
Wed, February 05, 2025
#57. What It Really Means to Be a Professional
We throw the word professional around a lot in the fire service. But are we truly approaching the job with a professional mindset? In this episode, we explore the transition from amateur to professional—what it takes, what it really means, and how to apply those lessons on and off the job. Inspired by The Way of the Champion by Paul Rabil, we break down the mindset shifts that separate those who show up from those who excel . What You’ll Learn: 🔥 The difference between getting paid and thinking like a pro 🔥 How to apply elite athlete preparation to firefighting 🔥 Why self-assessment (and even game film ) should be part of your routine 🔥 The professional mindset beyond the job—home life, recovery, and personal growth If you're serious about sharpening your edge and leveling up, this episode is for you. Resources Mentioned: (Some of these might be affiliate links) 📖 The Way of the Champion – Paul Rabil 📖 Turning Pro – Steven Pressfield Join the Conversation! If this episode hit home, share it with a crew member or drop us a message—how do you define professionalism in the fire service? 👉 Don’t forget to rate, review, and follow the show so you never miss a new episode. Stay smart, The Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast
Wed, December 18, 2024
#56. Firefighter Wellness, Resilience, and Crackyl Magazine with Kory Pearn
What happens when we stop focusing just on the job and start taking care of the person behind the gear? This week’s podcast answers that question in a big way. I sat down with Kory Pearn , firefighter and founder of Crackyl Magazine , to talk about building resilient firefighters and tackling the challenges that impact us beyond the calls. Kory’s got an incredible story—one shaped by health scares, years in the fire service, and a mission to put firefighters first. 🔥 Here’s what we dive into: The Seven Pillars of Wellness —Kory breaks down the areas that actually impact your well-being, from mental health to finances. Why It’s Not Just About the Job: How we can stay sharp, connected, and present both at work and at home. Teachable Moments: Kory’s insights on leadership, peer support, and how a simple phone call can change everything. Crackyl Magazine’s Mission: A free resource built to challenge, inspire, and support firefighters everywhere. This episode hits home for anyone who’s ever struggled to balance work, life, and the weight of the job. Kory reminds us that firefighting isn’t just about showing up—it’s about showing up whole. Want to dive deeper? Check these references mentioned in this episode (Some of these might be affiliate links) Crackyl Magazine Digital or Print Version Here! Presilience For the Emergency Scene: Firefighter Craftsmanship Reading is a necessary part of growth. Here is a list we compiled for you to help get you started! Guiding Principles Download FFC Podcast Episode #46: Firefighter Syndrome Could It Be Affecting You Too?
Wed, December 11, 2024
#55. Building Resilient Firefighters with Captain Dani Landholm
Join us as we dive into the world of training, leadership, and resilience with Captain Danielle Landholm of the Omaha Fire Department. Dani brings a wealth of experience, from her beginnings as a volunteer firefighter to leading innovative changes in fire academies. She’s a trailblazer in cultivating meaningful training experiences that focus not just on skill but also on building resilient, well-rounded firefighters. 🔥 Here’s what we cover in this episode: The Journey of Leadership: Dani’s story of navigating challenging calls, burnout, and her pivotal career shift to the training division. Redefining Training: How Omaha Fire Department’s academy incorporates collaboration, hands-on EMS days, and cultural preparation for recruits. The Human Element: How to balance high standards with empathy, creating recruits who excel on the job while staying grounded at home. Guiding Principles: Learn how Captain Landholm uses introspection and the Guiding Principles framework to foster resilience and self-awareness in recruits. Whether you’re an academy instructor, a recruit, or a seasoned firefighter, this episode is packed with actionable insights that’ll make you rethink how we approach growth in the fire service. Want to dive deeper? Check these references mentioned in this episode (Some of these might be affiliate links) Presilience For the Emergency Scene: Firefighter Craftsmanship Reading is a necessary part of growth. Here is a list we compiled for you to help get you started! Guiding Principles Download FFC Podcast Episode #40: Designing Relevant Training with Cpt Ian Bennett Cpt Landholm can be reached at: danielle.landholm@cityofomaha.org
Wed, December 04, 2024
#54. Building Resilience & Saving Lives: A Wellness Blueprint with Christian Macklin
How do you revolutionize wellness in the fire service? You listen, you lead, and you start small but think big. In this episode, we sit down with Christian Macklin, Health and Wellbeing Officer at South Metro Fire Department. Christian’s journey from a light-duty assignment to leading one of the most innovative wellness programs in the country is nothing short of inspiring. Whether you're a line firefighter, officer, or chief, there’s something in this episode for you. Here’s what we dive into: The Turning Point: How a life-threatening cardiac event led South Metro to rethink firefighter health and safety. Starting Small: How Christian leveraged relationships, minimal resources, and a $42K grant to launch South Metro’s program. Actionable Solutions: From pre-authorizing MRIs to implementing cutting-edge coronary artery screening—learn cost-effective ways to prioritize firefighter health. The Future of Wellness: Discover the next frontier of firefighter preparation: mental readiness, resilience, and performance psychology. 🎙 Ready to dive in? Listen Now! Share this episode with your crew or anyone passionate about advancing the fire service. Let’s start building a healthier, more resilient future together. P.S. What do you think about the ideas Christian shares? Let me know! Send a message to ffcraftsmanship@gmail.com or drop a comment on our social media channels. References mentioned in this episode (Some of these might be affiliate links) Reading is a necessary part of growth. Here is a list we compiled for you to help get you started! Presilience For the Emergency Scene: Firefighter Craftsmanship FFC Podcast Episode #39. Forging Wellness With Captain Jesse Clark National Association of Worksite Health Centers
Wed, November 27, 2024
#53 Thriving Through Resilience with Jay Bettencourt: Lessons from the Fireground and the Loss of Captain Bowen
In this powerful episode of the Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast , we sit down with Jay Bettencourt, company officer from Asheville, North Carolina, instructor, and founder of the Resilient Mind Program. Jay shares how a life-altering line-of-duty death early in his career shaped his approach to training, resilience, and mindfulness. Together, we explore the psychology of high performance in the fire service and how firefighters can thrive under pressure. From Survival to Thriving: Jay recounts his experiences at a tragic line-of-duty death fire, its impact on his career, and how it inspired his focus on rapid intervention training and mental resilience. The Resilient Mind Program: Jay explains how mindfulness and intentional breathing practices can help firefighters handle stress, enhance situational awareness, and thrive in both their professional and personal lives. Practical Applications: Insight into Asheville's training model, which integrates mindfulness into fire academy modules and focuses on success-based, real-world RIT and survival drills. References mentioned in this episode (Some of these might be affiliate links) Reading is a necessary part of growth. Here is a list we compiled for you to help get you started! Presilience For the Emergency Scene: Firefighter Craftsmanship The Loss of Captain Bowen by Jay Bettencourt Part 1 The Loss of Captain Bowen by Jay Bettencourt Part 2 FFC Podcast Episode #48 “Breathe How You Want to Feel with Matteo Pistono” FFC Podcast Episode #45 Dena Ali “It's Not Only The Calls. Mental Health and Organizational Leadership” Article: Just 10 minutes of mindfulness daily boosts wellbeing and fights depression <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.gaston.edu/economic-workforce-d
Wed, November 20, 2024
#52. Acknowledge, Accept, Let Go With FF Doug McGraw
It's our one year anniversary of the Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast and to celebrate we have a very special topic and guest to share with you. This week we speak with former professional baseball pitcher and retired firefighter Doug McGraw on how to show up strong, serve well, and finish strong. Doug has been an instrumental part of my human performance journey and without his guidance, ecouragement, and mentorship over the years, Firefighter Craftsmanship would not be a thing. In this episode we cover: How sports psychology directly correlates to you as a first responder and how he was able to bring in concepts he learned in Major League baseball to help him navigate 25 years as a firefighter Why setting boundaries is a must in your life and within emergency services How he has adopted the "acknowledge, accept, let go" mindset and framework and how that has helped him tremendously as he navigates retirement and the next phase of his life References mentioned in this episode (Some of these might be affiliate links) Firefighter Craftsmanship Weekly Email Education Reading is a necessary part of growth. Here is a list we compiled for you to help get you started! Presilience For the Emergency Scene: Firefighter Craftsmanship Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast Episode #40 Ian Bennett Designing Relevant Training Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast Episode #4 Athletic Identity
Wed, November 13, 2024
#51. Igniting Creativity: The Key to Building High-Performance Cultures in the Fire Service & Beyond
In this episode of the Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast , we dive into how creativity can transform the fire service by building a culture rooted in high performance and genuine engagement. Creativity is often seen as an afterthought in a field focused on discipline, protocols, and safety. But what if tapping into our creative potential could enhance individual and team performance, job satisfaction, and overall well-being? We explore the following key topics: 1. Self-Determination Theory and Motivation Discover how Self-Determination Theory (SDT) applies to the fire service and how it supports high performance. By focusing on the core needs of autonomy, competence, and relatedness, leaders can foster an environment where firefighters feel empowered and motivated from within. 2. The Role of Autonomy in High-Performance Teams Autonomy isn't about throwing out structure—it's about granting firefighters the freedom to make decisions and problem-solve, which enhances both competence and morale. Learn practical strategies to bring autonomy into daily operations, training exercises, and emergency response scenarios. 3. Linking Creativity to Personal Happiness and Well-Being Firefighters face high-stress environments, so personal well-being is essential. We explore the connection between creative problem-solving and personal happiness, looking at how fulfilling work can contribute to overall mental health and resilience. By the end of this episode, you'll come away with actionable insights for building a culture that values creativity, supports autonomy, and prioritizes well-being—all essential elements of a high-performance fire service team. Whether you're a seasoned firefighter or just starting, this episode will provide valuable perspectives on nurturing a thriving firehouse culture. References mentioned in this episode (Some of these might be affiliate links) Creative Calling by Chase Jarvis Further Resources and Education: Firefighter Craftsmanship Weekly Email Education Reading is a necessary part of growth. Here is a list we compiled for you to help get you started! Presilience For the Emergency Scene: Firefighter Craftsmanship Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast Episode #49: Identifying the Good in the Small Spaces with Jeremy Sa
Wed, November 06, 2024
#50. Are you a First Reactor or a First Responder? Featuring Dave Gillespie of Tactical Resiliency Training
How good are you at actually choosing your response? Is it an intentional choice or is it more of a reaction that you just kind of muddle through? This week on the Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast we continue our deep dive in how to build your firefighter resilience through intentional training. Division Chief Dave Gillespie helps us connect some dots and gives us some great and simple to implement techniques and processes to help make our response an attainable thing. In this episode we cover: How to integrate sports psychology techniques and processes into your daily life both as an emergency responder and off the job as a human Why intentional training on the human factor is not only nice to have but it's an organizational responsibility to empower and lead your people His involvement with Tactical Resiliency Training and his fantastic resource guide "Developing Firefighter Resiliency" that he co-authored with Bob Carpenter and Ric Jorge References mentioned in this episode (Some of these might be affiliate links) Developing Firefighter Resiliency Book Tactical Resilience Training Homepage On Scene Practice Playlist Further Resources and Education: Firefighter Craftsmanship Weekly Email Education Reading is a necessary part of growth. Here is a list we compiled for you to help get you started! Presilience For the Emergency Scene: Firefighter Craftsmanship Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast Episode #31 Olivia Mead Resiliency Training Through Yoga Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast Episode #18 Imagery Training
Wed, October 30, 2024
#49. Jeremy Sanders of Crew 1st Culture: Identifying the Good in the Small Spaces
We hear a lot about how we get to choose our mindsets and how we should see the good in everything and every situation we're involved in. That's all great but is it reality? This week on the Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast we have the honor of speaking with Jeremy Sanders of Crew 1st Culture and we dive deep into how things like the growth mindset and separating from the negativity actually work. This is a conversation you aren't going to want to miss. In this episode we cover: Why having foundations can help you in the darkest of times and can increase your resilience as a firefighter or emergency responder What sort of mindsets Jeremy wished he would have had from the beginning of his career and why they are the secret sauce for yourself, those you lead, and those you instruct What's next for Crew 1st Culture including his podcast and how human performance is the common thread for his success References mentioned in this episode (Some of these might be affiliate links) Crew 1st Culture Reading is a necessary part of growth. Here is a list we compiled for you to help get you started! Mindset by Carol Dweck (Growth Mindset Principle Foundation) Further Resources and Education: Firefighter Craftsmanship Weekly Email Education Presilience For the Emergency Scene: Firefighter Craftsmanship Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast Episode #45 Dena Ali-It's Not Just the Calls Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast Episode #37: Self Efficacy
Wed, October 23, 2024
#48. Breathe How You Want to Feel with Matteo Pistono
Want a free resource that you already have harnessed and built into you physiology, psychology and biology? One that can amp you up or slow you down and can absolutely help you CRUSH your goals, expand your mental toughness, and grow your resilience? This week on the Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast we have the honor of speaking with Matteo Pistono and expand on his recent book "Breathe How You Want to Feel" and learn some actionable tools that you have access to right at this exact moment. This is a conversation you aren't going to want to miss. In this episode we cover: Why Matteo wrote this book and why it's 100% relevant for you What free resource do you have access to right now that is the portal to your nervous system Multiple different ways you can use your breathing to level up your game whether it is on the job or at home. References mentioned in this episode (Some of these might be affiliate links) Breathe How You Want to Feel Book by Matteo Pistono Microfiber Mouth Tape Further Resources and Education: Firefighter Craftsmanship Weekly Email Education Presilience For the Emergency Scene: Firefighter Craftsmanship Episode 44 Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast Nitric Oxide Episode 40 Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast Designing Relevant Training with Cpt Ian Bennett Episode 33 Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast Tape It Up! Mouth Taping while sleeping
Wed, October 16, 2024
#47 Be a Linchpin.
We gain a lot of value when you search for resources and information from outside of your sphere of influence and outside of your industry. One great and relevant resource for us in emergency services is the world of business and specifically entrepreneurship. One of our favorite books here at Firefighter Craftsmanship is by Seth Godin titled Linchpin: Are You Indispensable? This week on the Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast we dive into some highlights from this fantastic resource and learn from one of the greatest leadership thought leaders out there, Seth Godin. In this episode we cover: What is a linchpin and can you be one even if you work for an organization? What are some tangible steps you can take to be a linchpin and be indispensable What are the 7. abilities of the Linchpin (Hint you already possess every single one) References mentioned in this episode (Some of these might be affiliate links) Linchpin: Are You Indispensable? by Seth Godin Seth Godin's Daily Blog Further Resources and Education: Firefighter Craftsmanship Weekly Email Education Presilience For the Emergency Scene: Firefighter Craftsmanship Episode 40 Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast Desigining Relevant Training with Cpt. Ian Bennett Episode 04 Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast Athletic Identity What Is It & How Do We Build A Healthy One?
Wed, October 09, 2024
#46. Firefighter Syndrome Could It Be Affecting You Too? Featuring Jadie Miller
We in emergency services want to solve problems. This applies on way more than just 911 calls and sometimes we have to try and solve problems with ourselves or a member of our crew. At times we can notice something is "off" with ourselves or one of our crew members and maybe we chalk it up to disengagement, sleep deprivation, or just having a bad day. What happens if this bad day turns into a bad week, month or a bad few years? This week on the Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast we have the honor of speaking with Firefighter Chief Jadie Miller and dive deep into a framework called "Firefighter Syndrome" that is absolutely worth learning about. This concept is part of the positive revolution for you as an emergency responder and looking at your health and wellness from a holistic angle! In this episode we cover: What is Firefighter Syndrome and where does it come from? What are some things we can do to prevent or navigate its parts and pieces? Are the components of Firefighter Syndrome really anything new and is there any research to support it? References mentioned in this episode (Some of these might be affiliate links) Jadie Miller's Website: Pyroc.com Dr. Chris Freuh Website and Research on Operator Syndrome Firefighter Syndrome Questionnaire Downloadable version Crackly Article: Firefighter Syndrome: A Proposed Whole Systems Framework Crackyl Article: I Have Something But It’s Not PTSD: Jadie’s Story Further Resources and Education: Firefighter Craftsmanship Weekly Email Education Presilience For the Emergency Scene: Firefighter Craftsmanship Episode 01 Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast The Window of Tolerance Episode 39 Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast Forging Wellness with Cpt Jesse Clark
Wed, October 02, 2024
#45. Dena Ali. It's Not Only The Calls. Mental Health and Organizational Leadership
There is a lot of great conversations happening about mental health in emergency services. Unfortunately some of these conversations are ignoring that the 911 calls might not be the root cause of our current challenges and fail to acknowledge that organizations play a massive part in their employee's overall wellness. This week on the Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast we have the honor of speaking with Battalion Chief Dena Ali and dive deep into some of the lived realities that we need to address. Dena has been a true student of the game for years and is bringing her passion around suicide prevention, mental health and building cohesive tribes to the forefront of emergency services. In this episode we cover: Why psychological safety is so important Why having a tribe is so important to your success longterm How isolation impacts you and us as organizations and how to create actionable change regardless of your rank. References mentioned in this episode (Some of these might be affiliate links) Dena Ali Webcast and all of her Fire Engineering content! The Culture Code by Daniel Coyle Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl Rethinking Suicide by Craig Bryan Polyvagal Theory Presilience For the Emergency Scene: Firefighter Craftsmanship Episode 01 Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast The Window of Tolerance Episode 19 Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast Build Your Tribe First Responder Center for Excellence
Wed, September 25, 2024
#44. Nitric Oxide's role in your mental and physical health
Nitric Oxide (NO) is a super power gas that we actually produce on our own through normal respiration. This cool gas was initially though of as a toxin but in 1998 won a Nobel Prize for its role in cardiovascular health. This week on the Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast we dive into how nitric oxide can calm you down, help you do more work on the emergency scene, help you reintegrate into your off-job life easier and even help you to eliminate a runny nose! In this episode we cover: What is nitric oxide and why do we want to harness its positive benefits? How nitric oxide is positively correlated with humming breath practices How to use the vasodilator properties of NO to help you rid yourself of rhinitis or a stuffed up nose and help you get to sleep quicker! References mentioned in this episode (Some of these might be affiliate links) Breathe How You Want to Feel Matteo Pistono Presilience For the Emergency Scene: Firefighter Craftsmanship Episode 43 Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast Humming Episode 33 Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast Mouth Taping At Night Episode 14 Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast Trait & State Anxiety Shampo, Marc A. et al. Ferid Murad—1998 Nobel Laureate for Nitric Oxide Research. Mayo Clinic Proceedings, Volume 79, Issue 10, 1230 https://www.mayoclinicproceedings.org/article/S0025-6196(11)62653-0/fulltext#:~:text=American%20scientist%20Ferid%20Murad%20shared,molecule%20in%20the%20cardiovascular%20system . Maniscalco, M., Sofia, M., Weitzberg, E., De Laurentiis, G., Stanziola, A., Rossillo, V. and Lundberg, J.O. (2004), Humming-induced release of nasal nitric oxide for assessment of sinus obstruction in allergic rhinitis: pilot study. European Journal of Clinical Investigation, 34: 555-560. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2362.2004.01384.x Weitzberg, E., & Lundberg, J. O. (2002). Humming greatly increases nasal nitric oxide. American journal of respiratory and crit
Wed, September 18, 2024
#43. Hum that song, Get Tougher & Increase Survivability!
Did you know you can actually get tougher by humming a song? It's true and hilariously enough there's actually quite a bit of research to support my claim. This week on the Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast we dive into how humming can increase your vagal tone (aka make you tougher), help you have higher quality days off with your family, and how this technique is commonly taught in fire academies across the country. In this episode we cover: What is vagal tone and why do we want to increase it? How humming can increase your stress resilience and can be integrated into your routines How the Reilly Emergency Breathing Technique was founded based on a conversation with Kevin Reilly himself! References mentioned in this episode (Some of these might be affiliate links) Breathe How You Want to Feel Matteo Pistono Reilly Emergency Breathing Technique- Video Rethinking Emergency Air Management: The Reilly Emergency Breathing Technique Presilience For the Emergency Scene: Firefighter Craftsmanship Bernardi F, Bordino M, Bianchi L, Bernardi L. Acute fall and long-term rise in oxygen saturation in response to meditation. Psychophysiology . 2017; 54: 1951–1966. https://doi.org/10.1111/psyp.12972 Gunjan, T., Sharma, K., Banshi, S., Soundappan, K., Ashwati, K., Vatsal, Z., Shah, S. (2023). Humming (simple bhramari pranayama) as a stress buster: A holter-based study to analyze heart rate variability (HRV) parameters during bhramari, physical activity, emotional stress, and sleep. Cureus, 15(4) doi: https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.37527
Wed, September 11, 2024
#42 Remembering 9/11/2001
Today marks the 23rd anniversary since the attacks on the United States of America on 9/11. It also marks the greatest rescue in the history of emergency service with over 20,000 people saved. For some of us this event was the catalyst to get into emergency services. For others of us we might have been too young to remember that fateful day. This week on the Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast we pause to reflect on the sacrifice and the lives lost on 9/11/2001 and to pay homage to them and celebrate the post traumatic growth that has occurred. Get involved, honor those who have gone before us and most importantly; Never Forget. Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund of Colorado
Wed, September 04, 2024
#41. Purpose Vs Performance. Can We Have Both?
Most of us got into emergency services for a reason. Do you remember what your's was? If I was to guess it was probably grounded in some version of "I want to help people" as the foundational element. Do you still feel this way? Has the purpose for you changed over time? Has it gotten stronger or maybe morphed into some other version? This week on the Firefighter Craftsmanship we dive into a psychological concept of high performers that looks at how can we sustain the "passion" and build helathy, happy, and strong teams of people that can deliver on that initial promise of helping. I hope it spurs some internal reflection and gives you some tools to take your impact to the next level. In this episode we cover: The difference between Performance Based Systems and Purpose Based Systems How most of us were brought into emergency services through purpose but now we're measured on performance metrics Why we must define the words within our Mission Statements and be as clear as possible Why organizations need to be involved and intentional about designing cultures including at the end of a members' career References mentioned in this episode (Some of these are Affiliate Links): FFC Podcast Episode 4 Athletic Identity What is it? and How Do we Build a Healthy One? FFC Podcast Episode 37 Self Efficacy & How it Increases Your Mental Toughness Finding Mastery Podcast with Dr. Michael Gervais How Do You Balance Success AND Wellbeing? | AMA Vol. 22 First Rule of Mastery Dr. Michael Gervais Book Presilience For the Emergency Scene: Firefighter Craftsmanship
Wed, August 28, 2024
#40. Designing Relevant Training with Captain Ian Bennett of West Coast Fire Training
Creating relevant training in emergency services is paramount to success on an actual call. But are we actually doing a good job of replicating the real world environment? How do we balance safety standards with prepping ourselves and our people to actually be ready? Are we overloading ourselves and our students and therefore missing the mark when it comes to training? This week on the Firefighter Craftsmanship we speak with Captain Ian Bennett of Seattle Fire Department & West Coast Fire Training who has not only been successful designing and implementing acquired structure live fire training but also has accounted for the role that humans play in the training environment & tactical operation environment. In this episode we cover: How you can establish learning cultures both personally and on a larger scale Why human performance psychology needs to be a foundational consideration when designing training programs Why support systems off of work are so important & how they lead to longterm success How patience and relationships lead to massive wins when you play the long game References mentioned in this episode (Some of these are Affiliate Links): FFC Podcast Episode 37 Self Efficacy & How it Increases Your Mental Toughness FFC Podcast Episode 38 A conversation with Dr. Barb Thompson Operational Psychologist Weekly Scrap 242 Ian Bennett Presilience for the Emergency Scene Please follow, leave us a review and send your questions in as we plan to do some Ask Me Anything episodes along the way. We're always open for guest ideas and have no problem if you nominate yourself! Hit us up at ffcraftsmanship@gmail.com
Wed, August 21, 2024
#39. Forging Wellness With Captain Jesse Clark
Is Wellness the new buzzword that sounds cool but is so watered down its losing its punch? We all know it's important but what are the actual parts and pieces that make up wellness and how do we work towards them both personally and organizationally? This week on the Firefighter Craftsmanship we speak with Captain Jesse Clark of Boise Fire Department who has worked through some significant challenges and has chosen to thrive vs just survive with a career in emergency services and off the job. In this episode we cover: It's not all Doom & Gloom! Why mentorship is so important and how it makes a huge impact What is the Forging Wellness Conference and Why is it so unique? References mentioned in this episode (Some of these are Affiliate Links): IAFF Wellness Fitness Initiative Fire Nuggets Emergency Responders Health Center- Dr. Hilvers Ready Rebound FFC Podcast Episode 38 A conversation with Dr. Barb Thompson Operational Psychologist Presilience for the Emergency Scene Please follow, leave us a review and send your questions in as we plan to do some Ask Me Anything episodes along the way. We're always open for guest ideas and have no problem if you nominate yourself! Hit us up at ffcraftsmanship@gmail.com
Wed, August 14, 2024
#38. Dr. Barb Thompson a Conversation with an Operational Psychologist
Operations is a term that all of us in emergency services are very familiar with. But have you ever heard of an operational psychologist? This special group of highly trained individuals might be the key for you personally and for your organization to take all aspects of what you do to a whole new level. This week on the Firefighter Craftsmanship we speak with Dr. Barb Thompson and dive into some really important parts and pieces as we all try and get a little bit better every single day. In this episode we cover: What is an Operational Psychologist and how can we use them both at work and at home The role of an organization in all of this and how do we actually care and look out for our people? How do we integrate outside consultants like a psychologist into our organizations for the most success? How to practice the concept of "service without self destruction" References mentioned in this episode (Some of these are Affiliate Links): The Emergency Mind Podcast featuring Dr. Thompson The Mission Critical Team Institute Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast Episode 37 Self Efficacy and How to Increase Your Mental Toughness Presilience For the Emergency Scene: Firefighter Craftsmanship <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbara-thompson-7487aa8
Wed, August 07, 2024
#37. Self Efficacy and How it Increases Your Mental Toughness
Mental toughness is always a focus for emergency responders. How do you build more of it? How can you be more resilient in response to the demands of the job? What are the principles that lead to healthy, happy and strong people both on and off the job? This week's Firefighter Craftsmanship podcast dives into the psychological theory of self efficacy and how you can use it to catapult not only your mental resilience but also build high performing teams using its frameworks. In this episode we cover: What is Self efficacy and why does it matter The 5 components of self efficacy and how to use them as a framework How you can empower yourself through self efficacy and reap the benefits at work and at home References: Lambert, J. E., Benight, C. C., Harrison, E., & Cieslak, R. (2012). The Firefighter Coping Self-Efficacy Scale: measure development and validation. Anxiety, Stress, and Coping, 25(1), 79–91. https://doi.org/10.1080/10615806.2011.567328 Lyons, P., & Bandura, R. (2019). Self-efficacy: core of employee success. Development and Learning in Organizations, 33(3), 9–12. https://doi.org/10.1108/DLO-04-2018-0045 Regehr, C., Hill, J., Knott, T., & Sault, B. (2003). Social support, self-efficacy and trauma in new recruits and experienced firefighters. Stress and Health, 19(4), 189–193. https://doi.org/10.1002/smi.974 Other resources (some of these are affiliate links!): XTI is offering all of you a 15% off discount for any of their products! Just enter Firefighter15 at checkout for the discount! XTI.US Homepage
Wed, July 31, 2024
#36. A Chat with Sleep Specialist Dr. Mark Petrun about Emergency Responders' Shift Work and the Impact on Health
There's a lot of information out there about sleep! As an emergency responder it is tough to figure out how it all applies to you and your specific situation. Especially if you work shifts. This week's Firefighter Craftsmanship podcast features Dr. Mark Petrun a longtime pulmonologist with a specialty in sleep medicine who's been involved in the sleep conversation since the early 1980's! Along with having many shift working emergency responder patients over the years, Dr. Petrun's son is an engineer for a career fire department so he personally understands the impact of the occupation, the shift schedule impact and the importance of sleep for emergency response. In this episode we cover: Why naps are so important and the cultures that prevent them from occuring The impact of sleep deprivation on cardiac disease, chroninc disease, and cancer How you can empower yourself and use simple routines to maximize your sleep efficiency and effectiveness XTI is offering all of you a 15% off discount for any of their products! Just enter Firefighter15 at checkout for the discount! Other resources we speak about in this episode (Some of these are affiliate Links): XTI.US Homepage Hansen, J., & Stevens, R. G. (2012). Case–control study of shift-work and breast cancer risk in Danish nurses: Impact of shift systems. European Journal of Cancer (1990), 48(11), 1722–1729. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejca.2011.07.005 Paksarian, D., Rudolph, K. E., He, J.-P., & Merikangas, K. R. (2015). School Start Time and Adolescent Sleep Patterns: Results From the U.S. National Comorbidity Survey--Adolescent Supplement. American Journal of Public Health (1971), 105(7), 1351–1357. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2015.302619
Wed, July 24, 2024
#35. Using Tech For Performance & Recovery. Featuring Jason Suntych from XTI
We hear a lot about how technology negatively impacts our performance and sleep. Especially blue light from screens before bedtime. Is there a way that we can we use technology to tap into our biology, physiology and psychology to help us become ultimate performers? This week's Firefighter Craftsmanship podcast features Jason Suntych from XTI and he and his team are doing some tremendous work using PAWS (Pulse Alternating Wavelength System) technology to help you as a first responder get healthy, stay healthy and be healthy for the longterm. In this episode we cover: How most of us are light malnourished and why this findings is extremely important for you Why inflammatory and neurological disease might be tied to light exposure in our homes and places of work How XTI is bridging the gap between technology and human biology to help you become and stay an ultimate performer both at work and at home XTI is offering all of you a 15% off discount for any of their products! Just enter Firefighter15 at checkout for the discount! Other resources we speak about in this episode (Some of these are affiliate Links): XTI.US Homepage Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast Episode 6: How to Empower Your People to Be Mentally Tough and Mentally Fit- Featuring Fire Chief Mike West
Wed, July 17, 2024
#34. The Basics: Sleep Cycles & Your Routines!
Are you aware of the foundational basics of sleep and how a simple understanding of things like the 4 sleep cycles can impact your overall human performance as an emergency responder? This week's Firefighter Craftsmanship podcast talks dives into an easy to digest foundation of the basics! In this episode we cover: the 4 Sleep cycles and Why it's important we understand them How does alcohol play into sleep and does it actually help you sleep better? Why becoming aware of your routines related to sleep is paramount to your performance
Wed, July 10, 2024
#33: Tape It Up! Could this be the key to a better nights sleep?
Are you sleeping a full 7-9 hours a night (probably when you’re not on shift if you’re a firefighter) but still waking up feeling less than refreshed? Do you toss and turn at night, or wake up with a dry mouth every time? Have you ever gotten smacked because you snore? This week's Firefighter Craftsmanship podcast talks about a possible intervention using a small piece of tape that might be a game changer for your rest and recovery both on and off the job In this episode we cover: Mouth tape? Are you actually kidding me? Where did this come from and is there any actual value to it? Why consulting with your primary care physician is a smart move to level up your performance Resources Mentioned: Some Might be Affiliate Links Jaws: The Hidden Epidemic by Sandra Kahn and Paul Ehrlich Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art by James Nestor The Oxygen Advantage by Patrick McKeon 3M Micropore Tape Studies Referenced in this episode: Blum, D. (2022/11/17/). Can a Piece of Tape Help You Sleep?: Scam or Not. New York Times Company. Ehrlich, P. R., & Kahn, S. (2018). Disorders of Breathing and Sleep. In Jaws: The Story of a Hidden Epidemic (pp. 73–88). Stanford University Press. https://doi.org/10.1515/9781503606463-009 Lee, Y.-C., Lu, C.-T., Cheng, W.-N., & Li, H.-Y. (2022). The Impact of Mouth-Taping in Mouth-Breathers with Mild Obstructive Sleep Apnea: A Preliminary Study. Healthcare (Basel) , 10 (9), 1755-. https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare10091755 Sullivan, J. P., O'Brien, C. S., Barger, L. K., Rajaratnam, S. M., Czeisler, C. A., Lockley, S. W., & Harvard Work Hours, Health and Safety Group (2017). Randomized, Prospective
Wed, July 03, 2024
#32: Fall Asleep or Back To Sleep Quicker Using this Free Tool-Yoga Nidra
Ever have a hard time winding down and falling asleep when at home? How about when you're at work and run a late night call or calls and just can't fall back asleep? Yea...Me too! But I have found a practice that has really helped not only my sleep but literally hundreds of other emergency responders. And the best part is it costs $0. Resources mentioned in this episode: Episode 16: Reframing Performance, Neuro Nidra, and Connection for Success with Emily Hightower Episode 31: Resilience Training Using Yoga with Olivia Mead-YFFR Presilience For the Emergency Scene: Firefighter Craftsmanship Free Audio Yoga Nidra Scripts to Follow: Spotify Yoga Nidra Album (Many different times available here) Dr. Huberman Non Sleep Deep Rest Studies Referenced in this episode: Mosze
Wed, June 26, 2024
#31. Resilience Training Using Yoga To Master the Mind with Olivia Mead of Yoga For First Responders
Resilience to the stressors of the job as a first responder can be tough. But so can the stressors of just being a human. Some of this stress is good and our reactions to it are a completely natural and appropriate response from our autonomic nervous system. Other stressors can be a detriment to our overall performance both at work and off duty. This week's Firefighter Craftsmanship podcast features Olivia Mead from Yoga For First Responders and she brings a unique approach to that thing called "Yoga" and really challenges the stigma that sometimes can surround this thousands of years old practice. If you scoff at the word Yoga then this conversation is 100% for you! Oh, and she has peer reviewed published research to back it up.... In this episode we cover: What the heck is Yoga at its core and do we have to wear yoga pants? What cognitive reappraisal is and why it can work for you or against you Two separate studies that show Yoga can prevent PTSD, make you more resilient and more adaptable Other resources we speak about in this episode: Y oga For First Responders On Air Podcast featuring Firefighter Craftsmanships Kevin Housley Yoga Resilience Training Peer Reviewed Study A quick article from Olivia Mead about this study that is free to read 2020 Study that was conducted using virtual training and showed positive effects Yoga For First Responders Online Course Check out the great work Olivia is doing over at Yoga For First Responders!
Wed, June 19, 2024
#30. Why Tolerance Matters. CO2 Tolerance That Is!
Firefighters work in environments that require the use of a finite air supply through their SCBA. Being efficient, conditioned, and resilient to all kinds of factors is extremely important for a host of reasons but one is due to this limited air supply. This is one reason why CO2 tolerance is so important but it's certainly not exclusive to firefighters! CO2 tolerance is equated to tolerance to stress overall. Check out this weeks Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast episode that dives into a working understanding of CO2 tolerance, why we should care about it, how it works internally and how we can easily train it. In this episode we cover: What is the Bohr cycle and why is it important? How can we be a more efficient "machine" especially if we have a finite air supply A simple and easy to implement CO2 tolerance training strategy that will pay dividends Resources mentioned in this episode (Some of these are affiliate links): Shiftadapt.com Balban, M. Y., Neri, E., Kogon, M. M., Weed, L., Nouriani, B., Jo, B., Holl, G., Zeitzer, J. M., Spiegel, D., & Huberman, A. D. (2023). Brief structured respiration practices enhance mood and reduce physiological arousal. Cell reports. Medicine , 4 (1), 100895. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xcrm.2022.100895 Savulich, G., Hezemans, F. H., van Ghesel Grothe, S., Dafflon, J., Schulten, N., Brühl, A. B., Sahakian, B. J., & Robbins, T. W. (2019). Acute anxiety and autonomic arousal induced by CO2 inhalation impairs prefrontal executive functions in healthy humans. Translational psychiatry , 9 (1), 296. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41398-019-0634-z Presilience For the Emergency Scene: Firefighter Craftsmanship
Wed, June 12, 2024
#29. Using Periodization For Basic Skills Training
Planning firefighter training can be really tough. Keeping the crew and yourself engaged is sometimes a struggle and it’s easier at times just to wing it. However, winging it usually leads to unfocused actions and just doing the same thing over an over. Is there a concept out there that we can use to develop and plan relevant, useful and fun training?! In this episode we cover: What is Periodization and how can we apply it to basic skills training? The three main components of periodization and how to apply them Free downloadable template- 12 months of basic skills training calendar Resources we speak about in this episode: Lorenz, D., & Morrison, S. (2015). CURRENT CONCEPTS IN PERIODIZATION OF STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING FOR THE SPORTS PHYSICAL THERAPIST. International journal of sports physical therapy , 10 (6), 734–747. Presilience for the Emergency Scene Virtual Class
Wed, June 05, 2024
#28. Be a Hedgehog and Not a Fox
Have you ever felt completely overextended in work or your personal life? How much of this was because of choices or opportunities that were presented to you that may seem great at the beginning but in time proved to not meet your intended goals or outcomes? This week's Firefighter Craftsmanship podcast we dive back into the fantastic Jim Collins book titled Good to Great and specifically look a the Hedgehog concept. In this episode we cover: What is the Hedgehog concept and why is it filled with sound advice? Things we can do at our level to define and hone our hedgehog concept How to build personal wins using the hedgehog concept and how it can benefit all areas of our lives Other resources we speak about in this episode: Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast Episodes: #12 Do You Have Expectations of Yourself and How Do You Communicate Them? #07 Your Stress is Affecting Those Around You #02 Allostatic Load and Your Crews' Impact on It Presilience for the Emergency Scene Virtual Class
Wed, May 29, 2024
#27. How to Be Into the Job, Be Well Received & Change Cultures for the Better with Preston Lyons of Relentless Rejects
Have you ever been labeled as "too into the job" or struggled to bring a new concept back to your organization? Have you struggled to lead up or down the chain of command and are at a loss on where to start to get some buy-in and traction? Is the balance of being good at your job and good at home taking its toll? This week's Firefighter Craftsmanship podcast features Preston Lyons from the Relentless Rejects Podcast and he brings a realistic and simple approach that is not only based in effective strategy but also is a breath of fresh air for us in emergency services. In this episode we cover: Preston's journey and mindset shift and why he ultimately decided not to leave the fire service Things we can do as leaders within our organizations to effect positive change that matters How to build personal resilience and accountability both at work and at home Other resources we speak about in this episode: Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast Episodes: #15 Get Tougher & Reintegrate With Some Simple Tools With Emily Hightower of SHIFT-Part 1 #19 Build Your Tribe #04 Athletic Identity, What is it and How Do we Build a Healthy One? Check out the great work Preston is doing over at the Relentless Rejects Podcast!
Wed, May 22, 2024
#26. Using Your Breath For Relaxation & a Box Protocol
On this week's Firefighter Craftsmanship podcast we’re going to dive into how to use your breath to help you calm down, have a clear mind, and even help you fall asleep or fall back asleep! In this episode we cover: What does CO2 have to do with respiration and why does it matter? 3 simple to use breath practices to help you refocus and mitigate stress How a box breath works and we practice this protocol References: Yoga For First Responders Podcast featuring Kevin Housley The Vital Connection. Sleep, Performance, and Recovery for Emergency Responders Komori, T. (2018). The relaxation effect of prolonged expiratory breathing. Mental Illness , 10 (1). https://doi.org/10.4081/mi.2018.7669
Wed, May 15, 2024
#25. The Group Effect and Behavioral Matching
On this week's Firefighter Craftsmanship podcast we’re going to dive into the Group Effect and how Behavioral Matching can hinder or elevate you as an instructor and/or leader in emergency services. This is an integral component as you try to maintain and build cultures you want to be a part of. In this episode we cover: What is the Group Effect and why is this foundational for positive change? What are the Factors of Behavioral Matching How we can improve our teams, relationships and organizations by capitalizing on the group effect and behavioral matching using simple steps towards success. References: Blocker, H., & McIntosh, D. (2017). Not All Outgroups Are Equal: Group Type May Influence Group Effect on Matching Behavior. Journal of Nonverbal Behavior , 41 (4), 395–413. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10919-017-0258-z https://seths.blog/2013/07/people-like-us-do-stuff-like-this/ https://seths.blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/2017-people-like-us.pdf
Wed, May 08, 2024
#24. The 5 Components of Feeling Heard
On this week's Firefighter Craftsmanship podcast we’re going to continue the discussion about communication and how to build better teams and feel more connected. "Feeling Heard" is a concept all of us have experienced both in a positive sense and a negative one. In this episode we cover: What are the 5 components of feeling heard? How do the 5 components interact with the 3 entities (Me, You, We)? How we can improve our teams, relationships and organizations as a result of simply "feeling heard" Again, We hear you! References in this episode: Roos, C. A., Postmes, T., & Koudenburg, N. (2023). Feeling heard: Operationalizing a key concept for social relations. PloS One , 18 (11), e0292865–e0292865. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0292865 Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast Episode 23: What is the Research Around This Integral Concept?
Wed, May 01, 2024
#23. Feeling Heard. What is the Research Around This Integral Concept?
On this week's Firefighter Craftsmanship podcast we’re going to talk about communication and how to build better teams and feel more connected. "Feeling Heard" is a concept all of us have experienced both in a positive sense and a negative one. In this episode we cover: What are the entities involved in feeling heard? Why is feeling heard such a big deal and how does it tie into employee retention? The research that supports it and how it impacts overall success and increases organizational culture We hear you!
Wed, April 24, 2024
#22 Increase Your Efficiency Using the Pomodoro Technique
On this week's Firefighter Craftsmanship podcast we’re going to talk about efficiency and how to get more done using a simple concept called the Pomodoro Technique. In this episode we cover: What the heck is the Pomodoro Techniqe Why it works and how it increases engagement, accomplishment and motivation The research that supports it and how it increases overall awareness Put this technique in play today to be a more effective emergency responder!
Wed, April 17, 2024
#21 The Window & Mirror of Leadership
On this week's Firefighter Craftsmanship podcast we’re going to talk about Leadership. More specifically, we're starting a deep dive into the best selling book "Good to Great" by Jim Collins. An absolute must read! In this episode we cover: What the 5 Levels of Leadership identified in Good to Great are & how you can use them The 5 levels of leadership in conjunction with self-awareness to change your effectiveness Why the Window and Mirror Analysis is so important for leadership How to use the Window and Mirror concept to lead yourself and your team
Wed, April 10, 2024
#20 Reappraisal and How To Use It For Your Mindset
Why don’t we every so often take an appraisal ourselves? Do you ever really stop and think about why you do what you do or if your current situation is still meeting your intended goals and objectives? On this week's Firefighter Craftsmanship podcast we’re going to talk about Reappraisal (aka Reframing) and how you can use it to increase your performance and mindset In this episode we cover: What is reappraisal and reframing? How you can use reappraisal in conjunction with awareness to change your response to stress Why this applies to you as a first responder and how you can use it off the job
Wed, April 03, 2024
#19 Build Your Tribe
Have you noticed your career in emergency services has changed you? That your relationships both at work and off the job have diminished? On this week's Firefighter Craftsmanship podcast we’re going to talk about Building Your Tribe and why it's so important to focus on relationships to be happy, healthy and strong! In this episode we cover: Why can building culture be so difficult? How staffing models can impact how we are built as humans The ways you can control the controllables and grow thriving relationships at work and at home
Wed, March 27, 2024
#18 Imagery Training For An Increase In Your Skillset
Are you looking for a creative way to get more out of your training? Where the option is free, easily accessible and will increase performance? On this week's Firefighter Craftsmanship podcast we’re going to talk about a heavily studied sports psychology principle that you definitely already use in your daily life. It’s called Imagery Training and it can absolutely level up your game and basic skill set! In this episode we cover: What is Imagery and Why Can It Help Me Level Up? What are the parts and pieces of Imagery Training & how you can implement it effectively What are the benefits of Imagery Training & can it actually help you in basic skills, leadership and life?
Wed, March 20, 2024
17. #17 "The 24/72 Shift & the Golden Handcuff Model" With James Geering of Behind the Shield Podcast
Have you wondered if there is a better shift schedule? One that potentially doesn't jeopardize your health or wellbeing? Or maybe you're frustrated by the "golden handcuff" narrative? This week's Firefighter Craftsmanship podcast features James Geering from Behind the Shield Podcast and he brings the HEAT about emergency responder health, shift schedules, not believing our own lies and speaks about his journey transitioning out of the fire service to pursue other options. It's a fantastic thought provoking convo. Check it out here . In this episode we cover: Reframing shift work and explore the 24/72 with a deep dive on how this might actually save money Things we can do as emergency responders to empower ourselves and take control of our wellbeing We challenge the golden handcuffs of emergency services and take a different perspective for those who might be considering other options
Wed, March 13, 2024
16. #16 Reframing Performance, Neuro Nidra, and Connection for Success With Emily Hightower of Shift- Part 2
Are you tired of performing well in one area of your life and completely struggling in another area? Do you have trouble falling asleep, turning your brain off, or falling back asleep after a wake-up or running a 911 call? This week's Firefighter Craftsmanship podcast features part 2 of our conversation with Emily Hightower from Shift and she gives you some great tools to sleep better, connect with yourself and those around you, and perform at an elite level in all areas of your life. Check it out here . In this episode we cover: Reframing performance and health and challenge the typical medicate or talk therapy protocols What Nidra is and how it can help you sleep better, and catch up on sleep debt How shift schedules might not correlate to how your nervous system works but ways to work hand in hand with work and life for ultimate happiness and performance
Wed, March 06, 2024
15. #15 Get Tougher & Reintegrate With Some Simple Tools With Emily Hightower of SHIFT-Part 1
Have you ever had a hard time turning your brain off when you got off duty? Have your relationships ever been strained as you tried to reintegrate into daily life off shift? This week's Firefighter Craftsmanship podcast features Emily Hightower from Shift/Adapt and she gives you some great tools to be successful both at work and at home while playing the long game . Check it out here . In this episode we cover: What is down regulation and how do you do it successfully? How can you practice more compassion for ourselves and for those who truly care for us? How you can navigate both high performance at work and off the job
Wed, February 28, 2024
14. #14 Anxious? Is It a Trait or a State?
On an emergency scene have you ever wondered why sometimes you didn't perform like you did hundreds of times in training? How about why you have a little more anxiety when you're in one situation vs another? Or even why you have an underlying anxiety when you're at work vs when you're not? This week's Firefighter Craftsmanship podcast dives into anxiety and the differences of Trait Anxiety vs State Anxiety. Check it out here . In this episode we cover: What are the differences of Trait & State Anxiety? How do cultures in the training and organization impact anxiety for ourselves and our teammates? How you can navigate both Trait & State anxiety with a couple easy to implement tools On the FFC Podcast we coach you to deal with the stressors of the job as a first responder and how to thrive off-duty. We will talk about ultimate human performance, how this applies to firefighters and first responders and dive into the concepts that lead to your overall health, happiness, and physical and mental health. Topics covered will include human performance psychology, sports psychology, bodies response to stress, mental fitness, physical fitness, recovery techniques, breathing practices and how to be mindful even in the most challenging situations. Rate, Review and Follow! Please consider rating and reviewing the Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast! This helps us support more people (just like you) move toward their ultimate human performance potential. Smash on that Follow button to make sure you never miss an episode! Want even more training resources including a weekly email that spoon feeds you the top Human Performance concepts into your inbox? You can get all of that here: https://firefightercraftsmanship.ck.page/emaillist
Wed, February 21, 2024
13. #13 Challenge the Narrative Featuring Capt. Sean Gray
On this weeks Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast we talk with Captain Sean Gray from Cobb County Fire Department. Check it out here! In this episode we cover: How to be an agent of positive change in yourself & your fire department How a lifetime of fitness commitment transfers to our jobs as firefighters What the key is to play the long game in the emergency services Ways to increase your mental toughness and build a culture you want to be a member of You can listen here on Apple Podcast or Spotify ! Links mentioned in this episode: Episode 12 of the Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast Guiding Principles and How to Establish Your Why Brute Force Sandbags Affiliate Link Presilience For the Emergency Scene: Firefighter Craftsmanship On the FFC Podcast we coach you to deal with the stressors of the job as a first responder and how to thrive off-duty. We will talk about ultimate human performance, how this applies to firefighters and first responders and dive into the concepts that lead to your overall health, happiness, and physical and mental health. Topics covered will include human performance psychology, sports psychology, bodies response to stress, mental fitness, physical fitness, recovery techniques, breathing practices and how to be mindful even in the most challenging situations. Rate, Review and Follow! Please consider rating and reviewing the Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast! This helps us support more people (just like you) move toward their ultimate human performance potential. Smash on that Follow button to make sure you never miss an episode! Want even more training resources including a weekly email that spoon feeds you the top Human Performance concepts into your inbox? You can get all of that here: https://firefightercraftsmanship.ck.page/emaillist
Wed, February 14, 2024
12. #12 Do you have Expectations Of Yourself and How do You Communicate them?!
Episode 12 of the Firefighter Craftsmanship podcast continues to expand upon the concepts of mindset and expectations. We explore how to set positive expectations of ourselves and explore the concept of talking to ourselves vs listening to ourselves. Ultimately it is up to you! Check it out here . In this episode we cover: What are your expectations of yourself and how do you define them? Are these expectations building you up or holding you back? How does Self Determination Theory play into our individual expectations? Another free resource that will help you develop your Guiding Principles that lead you to success! Links mentioned in this episode: Episode 12 Webpage & Transcript Guiding Principles Downloadable Episode 9: Psychological Detachment From Work On the FFC Podcast we coach you to deal with the stressors of the job as a first responder and how to thrive off-duty. We will talk about ultimate human performance, how this applies to firefighters and first responders and dive into the concepts that lead to your overall health, happiness, and physical and mental health. Topics covered will include human performance psychology, sports psychology, bodies response to stress, mental fitness, physical fitness, recovery techniques, breathing practices and how to be mindful even in the most challenging situations. Rate, Review and Follow! Please consider rating and reviewing the Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast! This helps us support more people (just like you) move toward their ultimate human performance potential. Smash on that Follow button to make sure you never miss an episode! Want even more training resources including a weekly email that spoon feeds you the top Human Performance concepts into your inbox? You can get all of that here: https://firefightercraftsmanship.ck.page/emaillist
Wed, February 07, 2024
11. #11 Setting Expectations at the Crew Level and Beyond
This week's Firefighter Craftsmanship podcast is up and we talk about how to set expectations at the crew level to be clear, concise, and build a cohesive team. Check it out here! In this episode we cover: What are expectations and how do we define them? Who do the expectations actually belong to and how to get all members of the crew involved How do we build resilient cohesive teams through clearly defined and communicated expectations You can listen here on Apple Podcast or Spotify ! On the FFC Podcast we coach you to deal with the stressors of the job as a first responder and how to thrive off-duty. We will talk about ultimate human performance, how this applies to firefighters and first responders and dive into the concepts that lead to your overall health, happiness, and physical and mental health. Topics covered will include human performance psychology, sports psychology, bodies response to stress, mental fitness, physical fitness, recovery techniques, breathing practices and how to be mindful even in the most challenging situations. Rate, Review and Follow! Please consider rating and reviewing the Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast! This helps us support more people (just like you) move toward their ultimate human performance potential. Smash on that Follow button to make sure you never miss an episode! Want even more training resources including a weekly email that spoon feeds you the top Human Performance concepts into your inbox? You can get all of that here: https://firefightercraftsmanship.ck.page/emaillist Links and resources included in this episode: Fully Customizable Expectations Template: https://firefightercraftsmanship.ck.page/expectations
Wed, January 31, 2024
10. #10 Mindset and How to Win The Day
This week's Firefighter Craftsmanship podcast dives into Mindset and how we ultimately get to choose it. This choice can hinder us or it can propel us. Check it out here! In this episode we cover: What are the types of Mindset? How do we develop a helpful Mindset? What myelin is and how it might be the actual superpower towards success 4 strategies to train mindset to be successful in all areas of your life You can listen here on Apple Podcast or Spotify ! On the FFC Podcast we coach you to deal with the stressors of the job as a first responder and how to thrive off-duty. We will talk about ultimate human performance, how this applies to firefighters and first responders and dive into the concepts that lead to your overall health, happiness, and physical and mental health. Topics covered will include human performance psychology, sports psychology, bodies response to stress, mental fitness, physical fitness, recovery techniques, breathing practices and how to be mindful even in the most challenging situations. Rate, Review and Follow! Please consider rating and reviewing the Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast! This helps us support more people (just like you) move toward their ultimate human performance potential. Smash on that Follow button to make sure you never miss an episode! Want even more training resources including a weekly email that spoon feeds you the top Human Performance concepts into your inbox? You can get all of that here: https://firefightercraftsmanship.ck.page/emaillist Links for this episode: Daniel Coyle Talent Code Book https://amzn.to/3SBEJOH Long, P., & Corfas, G. (2014). Neuroscience. To learn is to myelinate. Science (New York, N.Y.) , 346 (6207), 298–299. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.1261127 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4261922/ Presilience For the Emergency Scene: Firefighter Craftsmanship https://emergencyresponderacademy.com/p/presilience-for-the-emergency-scene Firefighter Craftsmanship Episode 9: Psychological Detachment From Work: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/firefighter-craftsmanship-podcast/id17188
Wed, January 24, 2024
09. #09 Psychological Detachment From Work
In this episode we talk about Psychological Detachment from Work and give you actionable tools to help bridge the gap between work life and off-work life In this episode we cover: What is Psychological Detachment? The research that supports this concept and its impact Ways to recognize where you are and what needs to happen to help keep you happy, healthy and strong as an emergency responder Strategies around psychological detachment and tools that you can implement for zero cost Boundary management and how to value yourself and communicate effectively which leads to higher performance Resources mentioned in this episode: Etzion, D., Eden, D., & Lapidot, Y. (1998). Relief from job stressors and burnout: reserve service as a respite. The Journal of applied psychology , 83 (4), 577–585. https://doi.org/10.1037/0021-9010.83.4.577 Karabinski, T., Haun, V. C., Nübold, A., Wendsche, J., & Wegge, J. (2021). Interventions for improving psychological detachment from work: A meta-analysis. Journal of occupational health psychology , 26 (3), 224–242. https://doi.org/10.1037/ocp0000280 Sonnentag, S., Binnewies, C., & Mojza, E. J. (2010). Staying well and engaged when demands are high: the role of psychological detachment. The Journal of applied psychology , 95 (5), 965–976. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0020032 Sonnentag, S. (2012). Psychological Detachment From Work During Leisure Time: The Benefits of Mentally Disengaging From Work. Current Directions in Psychological Science : A Journal of the American Psychological Society , 21 (2), 114–118. https://doi.org/10.1177/0963721411434979 Salus Saunas Affiliate Link Discounts for Emergency Responders and Veterans!: https://salus-saunas-9974.myshopify.com?sca_ref=5115148.dVcuk1uJ9E Brute Force Training Affiliate Link Enter FirefighterCraftsmanship for 10% off! www.bruteforcetraining.com/firefightercraftsmanship Firefighter Craftsmanship Training and Resources for Stress: https://firefightercraftsmanship.com/cadence-breathing-to-reduce-your-stress/ On the FFC Podcast we coach you to deal with the stressors of the job as a first responder and how to thrive off-duty. We will talk about ultimate human performance, how this applies to firefighters and first responders and dive into the concepts that lead to your overall health, happiness, and physical and mental health. Topics covered
Wed, January 17, 2024
08. #08 Cancer Prevention & Action-Featuring Capt. Chris Van Luen
This week on the Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast we talk with Capt. Chris Van Luen about how to own your own health and steps you can take to proactively stay in the game. Since January is Cancer Awareness Month for Firefighters we dive into Chris' personal journey with cancer and get into some ways you can strengthen your ability to deal with some of the exposure issues we deal with as firefighters. In this episode we cover: How do we take charge of our own health as firefighters? How do we bring the latest technology to ourselves and our departments? Actionable ways to proactively create resilience against the rigors and potential negatives of the job The reality is that some of the cancer prevention systems we have in place just don’t do enough Resources mentioned in this episode: Breath Study related to Cortisol: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5455070/ PFA’s: The Forever Chemical Documentary: https://youtu.be/t8qGtEVh7oQ?si=nbhgUoQsxQpr0jOA Firefighter Cancer Support Network Letter for Dr’s: https://firefightercancersupport.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/Primary-care-cancer-evaluations-for-firefighters_HamrockMD_2016_FCSN.pdf IAFF Cancer Education Resources: https://www.iaff.org/cancer/ Tri-Fortify Liposomal Glutathione https://shop.aliveandwell.health//products/researched-nutritionals-tri-fortify-liposomal-glutathione-packets-watermelon?variant=39676630171750&tw_source=google&tw_adid=&tw_campaign=19498388300&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiA44OtBhAOEiwAj4gpOQqAG_aZDbrnyOdj_uT8b_FKGedPaoDy7MEW1NIfqiVkDuC2BmcWkRoC8C0QAvD_BwE OneTest for Cancer: https://onetestforcancer.com/ Galleri Test: https://www.galleri.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=test-for-cancer-detection&utm_content=non-brand-cancer-test-phrase&utm_campaign=galleri-hcp-non-brand-cancer-test&trafficsheetid=t50469&gclid=CjwKCAiAqY
Wed, January 10, 2024
07. #07 Your Stress Is Affecting Those Around You
This week’s Firefighter Craftsmanship podcast is an honest conversation directed at you supervisors specifically (but we think there’s lots of value for all ranks!) We wrap up our series addressing the recent Fire Rescue1 survey in this episode and talk about How Your Stress is Affecting Those Around You. Check it out here! In this episode we cover: The data points around supervisor stress and yes it is affecting your people We’re falling down as organizations in providing tools and resources to make our folks be ready and able to deal with stress How to build positive cultures around stress and failure Actionable tools to use in 2024 to change the stress narrative for yourself first Resources mentioned in the episode: Terry Farrell Firefighters Fund of Colorado http://www.terryfundco.org/ Fire Rescue1 "What Firefighters Wanted in 2023" https://www.firerescue1.com/what-firefighters-want/articles/digital-edition-what-firefighters-want-in-2023-iO4Lfd5lHQtnJ6aD/ Firefighter Craftsmanship Training and Resources for Stress! https://firefightercraftsmanship.com/cadence-breathing-to-reduce-your-stress/
Wed, January 03, 2024
06. #06 How to Empower Your People to Be Mentally Tough and Mentally Fit- Featuring Fire Chief Mike West
This weeks podcast features Chief Mike West who is doing some leading edge things with his department, Front Range Fire Rescue, especially in empowering his people to be resilient and ready. In this episode we cover: How to empower your firefighters to be mentally tough and mentally well How to develop happy and healthy firefighters and Chief officers The benefits of a 1900 start time for the 48/96 shift schedule! Semper Gumby: How to create flexible cultures that also are empowered to ask “Why?” You can listen here on Apple Podcast or Spotify ! On the FFC Podcast we empower emergency responders to master stress resilience, foster a fulfilling career and enrich your personal life. We will talk about ultimate human performance, how this applies to firefighters and first responders and dive into the concepts that lead to your overall health, happiness, and physical and mental health. Topics covered will include human performance psychology, sports psychology, bodies response to stress, mental fitness, physical fitness, recovery techniques, breathing practices and how to be mindful even in the most challenging situations. Rate, Review and Follow! Please consider rating and reviewing the Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast! This helps us support more people (just like you) move toward their ultimate human performance potential. Smash on that Follow button to make sure you never miss an episode! Want even more training resources including a weekly email that spoon feeds you the top Human Performance concepts into your inbox? You can get all of that here: https://firefightercraftsmanship.ck.page/emaillist
Wed, December 27, 2023
05. #05 What Firefighters Wanted in 2023
This week we talk about what Firefighters wanted in 2023 based on the survey conducted by Fire Rescue 1 of almost 2200 firefighters. In this episode we cover: The data from almost 2200 firefighters and the alarming trends that we can derive from these numbers How we can impact ourselves and our crew in a positive way Stress and how it is negatively impacting us in the fire service Some solutions for immediate results You can listen here on Apple Podcast or Spotify ! On the FFC Podcast we empower emergency responders to master stress resilience, foster a fulfilling career and enrich your personal life. We will talk about ultimate human performance, how this applies to firefighters and first responders and dive into the concepts that lead to your overall health, happiness, and physical and mental health. Topics covered will include human performance psychology, sports psychology, bodies response to stress, mental fitness, physical fitness, recovery techniques, breathing practices and how to be mindful even in the most challenging situations. Rate, Review and Follow! Please consider rating and reviewing the Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast! This helps us support more people (just like you) move toward their ultimate human performance potential. Smash on that Follow button to make sure you never miss an episode! Want even more training resources including a weekly email that spoon feeds you the top Human Performance concepts into your inbox? You can get all of that here: https://firefightercraftsmanship.ck.page/emaillist
Wed, December 20, 2023
04. #04 Athletic Identity, What is it and How Do we Build a Healthy One?
This week we talk about your athletic identity and some steps on how to build a healthy one. Check it out here! In this episode we cover: What is athletic identity and why does it matter for you as an emergency responder/tactical athlete? How do you develop healthy one? What sort of impact do others have on your athletic identity? Why does this matter in the overall scheme of things? You can listen here on Apple Podcast or Spotify ! On the FFC Podcast we coach you to deal with the stressors of the job as a first responder and how to thrive off-duty. We will talk about ultimate human performance, how this applies to firefighters and first responders and dive into the concepts that lead to your overall health, happiness, and physical and mental health. Topics covered will include human performance psychology, sports psychology, bodies response to stress, mental fitness, physical fitness, recovery techniques, breathing practices and how to be mindful even in the most challenging situations. Rate, Review and Follow! Please consider rating and reviewing the Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast! This helps us support more people (just like you) move toward their ultimate human performance potential. Smash on that Follow button to make sure you never miss an episode! Want even more training resources including a weekly email that spoon feeds you the top Human Performance concepts into your inbox? You can get all of that here: https://firefightercraftsmanship.ck.page/emaillist References: Brewer, B. W., Van Raalte, J. L., & Linder, D. E. (1993). Athletic identity: Hercules' muscles or Achilles heel? International Journal of Sport Psychology, 24(2), 237–254.
Wed, December 13, 2023
03. #03 Building Resilience BEFORE You Need It
This week's podcast is up and it's chock full of great tips and strategies to help you go out and crush it. This week we talk about how to build resilience BEFORE you need it on an emergency call. Check it out here! In this episode we cover: What is resilience? How do we develop individual resilience before we need to tap into it How do we build resilient teams and how does leadership play into resiliency You can listen here on Apple Podcast or Spotify ! On the FFC Podcast we coach you to deal with the stressors of the job as a first responder and how to thrive off-duty. We will talk about ultimate human performance, how this applies to firefighters and first responders and dive into the concepts that lead to your overall health, happiness, and physical and mental health. Topics covered will include human performance psychology, sports psychology, bodies response to stress, mental fitness, physical fitness, recovery techniques, breathing practices and how to be mindful even in the most challenging situations. Rate, Review and Follow! Please consider rating and reviewing the Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast! This helps us support more people (just like you) move toward their ultimate human performance potential. Smash on that Follow button to make sure you never miss an episode! Want even more training resources including a weekly email that spoon feeds you the top Human Performance concepts into your inbox? You can get all of that here: https://firefightercraftsmanship.ck.page/emaillist
Wed, December 06, 2023
02. #02: Allostatic Load and Your Crews' Impact on It: featuring Lt. Taylor Montey
This weeks podcast is up and it's chock full of great tips and strategies to help you go out and crush it. This week features Lt. Taylor Montey who also happens to be a licensed counselor, fitness coach, mom and wife and she brings some serious knowledge to this conversation. Check it out here! In this episode we cover: What the heck is Allostatic Load and why should you care? The masks that we wear and the impact of these longterm Seeking the approval of others How to create environments where people can be themselves and succeed long term You can listen here on Apple Podcast or Spotify ! On the FFC Podcast we coach you to deal with the stressors of the job as a first responder and how to thrive off-duty. We will talk about ultimate human performance, how this applies to firefighters and first responders and dive into the concepts that lead to your overall health, happiness, and physical and mental health. Topics covered will include human performance psychology, sports psychology, bodies response to stress, mental fitness, physical fitness, recovery techniques, breathing practices and how to be mindful even in the most challenging situations. Rate, Review and Follow! Please consider rating and reviewing the Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast! This helps us support more people (just like you) move toward their ultimate human performance potential. Smash on that Follow button to make sure you never miss an episode! Want even more training resources including a weekly email that spoon feeds you the top Human Performance concepts into your inbox? You can get all of that here: https://firefightercraftsmanship.ck.page/emaillist
Tue, November 28, 2023
01. #01: The Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast Launch and The Window of Tolerance
Tips and strategies to help you deal with the stressors of the job as a first responder and off-duty. In Episode 1 of the Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast we talk about ultimate human performance, how this applies to firefighters and first responders and dive into the concept of the Window of Tolerance. In this episode you'll hear: What the point of the Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast is Physiological response to stress The sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system and why it matters to you The impact of social media on your nervous system How to be intentional with physical fitness and mental fitness training How to breathe for performance by being mindful using breathing protocols and nasal breathing Rate, Review and Follow! Please consider rating and reviewing the Firefighter Craftsmanship Podcast! This helps us support more people (just like you) move toward their ultimate human performance potential. Smash on that Follow button to make sure you never miss an episode! Want even more training resources including a weekly email that spoon feeds you the top Human Performance concepts into your inbox? You can get all of that here: https://firefightercraftsmanship.ck.page/emaillist
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