Real conversations about the fire service, told by the people who live and support it. From the everyday challenges facing firefighters to the stories of those working behind the scenes, this podcast explores the lives, experiences, and perspectives of those who serve the fire community. We honor the memory of those we’ve lost and shine a light on those continuing to make a difference every day.
Dr. Vershalee Shukla, board-certified radiation oncologist and medical director for the Phoenix Fire Department’s cancer screening program, has built one of the most advanced firefighter cancer detection initiatives in the U.S. In this episode, she explains why firefighters face such high cancer risks, how early detection is saving lives, and the cutting-edge technology now available to first responders. From securing FEMA grants to leading nationwide advocacy, Dr. Shukla’s mission is clear—...
31 Jul 2025
#011 - Jason Miller
Deputy Chief Jason Miller has spent nearly 30 years in the fire service and is now one of the leading voices in firefighter cancer prevention. After seeing friends fall ill, he created the StormStick Decon System and began working with departments across the U.S. and Canada to improve exposure reduction. He’s collaborated with researchers at Harvard, ASU, U of A, and Vincere Cancer Center, and teaches cancer prevention to recruits and leaders nationwide. This is a must-watch episode on innova...
23 Jul 2025
#010 - Joe Spector
From police officer at 21 to firefighter, mentor, and now emotional wellness coach, Joe Spector has spent his life in service. After surviving a brain and spinal injury on the job, the loss of 11 loved ones, his daughter’s diagnosis, and a near-suicide, Joe transformed his pain into purpose. Today, he helps others build unshakable inner peace and resilience through mindset, mindfulness, and proven emotional wellness practices. His Grit, Growth & Gratitude framework has empowered countles...
16 Jul 2025
#009 - Lope Ribodal
For nearly two decades, Lope Ribodal has been the quiet force behind Phoenix Fire’s frontline defense against occupational cancer. As a Fire Equipment Service Worker (FESW) since 2006, Lope has dedicated his career to inspecting, cleaning, and maintaining the gear that keeps firefighters safe. In this episode, we dive into the crucial—but often overlooked—role Lope plays in protecting the lives of his brothers and sisters on the fireground. From handling contaminated PPE to managing high-pow...
9 Jul 2025
#008 - Matthew Mitchell
From Arctic operations to the heat of the Middle East, Matthew Mitchell’s journey is one of leadership under pressure. As an 0331 Machine Gunner with 1st Battalion, 2nd Marines (2014–2018), he rose rapidly through the ranks—meritoriously promoted three times in 16 months to E-5, and serving as everything from Team Leader to Platoon Commander. Twice deployed, he led the tactical employment of medium machine guns in extreme environments, earning Marine of the Quarter, NCO of the Quarter, and N...
3 Jul 2025
#007 - Josh Landspurg
From combat zones to firehouse life, Josh is a powerful story of service and transformation. A former USAF TACP/JTAC, he deployed to Afghanistan with the 173rd and Iraq with the 101st, later earning 2nd place in the All Army Combatives Tournament. Now a Phoenix firefighter (Class 16-1), he mentors vets through FireVet, trains jiu jitsu (brown belt, 10th Planet), dives toward his Dive Master cert, and is finishing a Master’s in Creative Writing at Harvard Extension—where his military novel wi...
22 Jun 2025
#004 - Ben Dubin
Ben is a Firefighter with the Tempe Fire Department and the co-creator of Connect 2 It, a program he started with his wife, Jessica, to support the mental health of firefighters and first responders. Through practices like cold plunging, Wim Hof breathing, and other wellness techniques, Connect 2 It focuses on both the prevention and treatment of mental health challenges. In this episode, Ben shares his journey in and out of the fire service, what inspired him to launch Connect 2 It, and much...
22 Jun 2025
#006 - Kerry Ramella
Kerry is the founder of Public Safety Crisis Solutions (PSCS) and a leading mental health expert specializing in the fire service. She’s helped countless firefighters navigate challenges when they’re struggling to take care of themselves or make sense of what’s happening in their minds. In this episode, we dive into the critical work Kerry is doing, the unique mental health needs of firefighters, and why proactive support is so important in today’s fire service.
22 Jun 2025
#003 - Tommy Sagnella
Tommy is a Captain with the Chandler Fire Department and brings nearly 20 years of experience to the job. He’s one of the featured firefighters in the 2024 documentary Dying to Save You (D2SU), which explores the real-life impact of cancer in the fire service. In this episode, Tommy sits down with us for an open conversation about the fire service, life, and the moments that have shaped his journey.
22 Jun 2025
#005 - Riley Murph
Riley is a Captain with the Salt River Fire Department and one of the founders of the 9/11 Stair Climb at Salt River Fields—an annual event created to honor the lives lost on September 11th and ensure we Never Forget. In this episode, Riley shares the history behind the event, what’s planned for this year, and joins us for a great conversation about the fire service, community, and the importance of remembrance.
22 Jun 2025
#002 - Chauncey Ray
Chauncey Ray is a Phoenix Fire Department Engineer with 25 years of service. He’s also the son of Chauncey Ray II, a firefighter who tragically lost his life in the line of duty when Chauncey was just 8 years old. In this episode, Chauncey shares his father’s story, how that day shaped his life and career, and dives into a wide-ranging conversation about the fire service, legacy, and perspective gained over two and a half decades on the job.
22 Jun 2025
#001 - Bill Rini
Bill Rini is a retired Phoenix Fire Department Captain and cancer survivor. He’s one of the firefighters featured in the 2024 documentary Dying to Save You (D2SU), which highlights the real-life impact of cancer in the fire service. In this episode, Bill joins us for a conversation about life, the fire service, and much more.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
36,263
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Podcast Authority Score: 52 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
73
Social presence
0
YouTube
76
Engagement
0
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