Life After The Fire (LATF), is a podcast devoted to and created by firefighters, offering valuable advice on how you can reach ultimate success, consistently grow, and leave a lasting legacy in your life ”after the fire.” We proudly present the captivating stories of former firefighters and first responders who have courageously conquered their transition from active duty to retirement, exemplifying grace and resilience. Our mission with this podcast is to equip our listeners with the strategies they need to tackle difficulties and lead a life of excellence beyond their firefighting career. We aim to educate, empower, and motivate them through meaningful conversations that will spark change and create an actionable blueprint for an extraordinary LATF.
Our show covers a wide range of topics including health and wellness, career development, personal growth, relationships, leadership development, and more. Each episode includes interviews with inspiring guests who share their unique insight into the paths they took when transitioning out of their career to help future generations. We also feature stories from those still serving in the fire service who talk about what has helped them grow personally and professionally while staying committed to upholding the oaths made to protect and serve others.
We invite you to join us on this journey of self-discovery, growth and legacy building. Tune in every week for a new episode that will leave you feeling inspired, empowered and equipped with tools to make your life after the fire one full of purpose
Life After The Fire Ep. 19 Prioritizing Mental Health in the Fire Service with Retired Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Captain Larry Doelling
In this week's episode of Life After The Fire, Chris Phelps is joined by retired Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Captain, Larry Doelling. Larry was a late bloomer in the fire service, joining at 31 years old. Prior to his career as a firefighter, Larry spent time in the Army Reserve and the Air Force.
While in the fire service, Larry displayed a reverence toward mental health and spent a number of years as a leader on the CISM team helping his colleagues better manage the stressors that inevitably come with the occupation. Chris and Larry dive into a deeper discussion of mental health with Larry highlighting some of the ways he would encourage the current generation of fire fighters to maintain their mental health while on the job. Additionally, encouraging retired firefighters to stay connected to those they served alongside during their careers.
This episode focuses heavily on the importance of mental health, not only for current firefighters, but also for those who have moved into their life after the fire service. Chris and Larry discuss resources departments provided to combat mental health struggles and encourage anyone who is considering mental health treatment to take the action steps necessary to ensure that they live a healthy life both during and after their careers have come to a close.
Thank you to all of those for watching, if you know of someone who you believe should be highlighted on the Life After The Fire Podcast or have topics you would like to see discussed, reach out to info@latfpodcast.com.
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30 May 2023
Life After The Fire Ep.18 with Andrew Gionta
In the episode of Chris sits down with Fire Captain Andrew Gionta. Andrew outlines his career in the fire department and shares about how he got his start in the real-estate industry. For more Life After the Fire Content subscribe on YouTube: @Life After The Fire Follow on instagram: @LATFPodcast Find us on Apple Podcasts: Life After The Fire
23 May 2023
Life After The Fire Ep. 17 with Bill Banks with FIRE TEC, Inc.
In the 17th episode of Life After The Fire, Chris welcomes Bill Banks from FIRE TEC, Inc..
FIRE TEC, Inc, based in Margate, Florida, is a leading provider of fire protection services and equipment, dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of businesses and properties. With a strong focus on quality and reliability, FIRE TEC offers comprehensive solutions, including fire alarm systems, sprinkler installations, and fire extinguisher maintenance. Their team of experienced professionals is committed to delivering exceptional customer service, while adhering to the latest industry standards and regulations. By prioritizing safety and staying up-to-date with advancements in fire protection technology, FIRE TEC, Inc continues to play a crucial role in safeguarding communities and promoting a culture of preparedness.
If you’re interested in learning more or pursuing a career with FIRE TEC you can find them at FireTec.com.
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16 May 2023
Life After The Fire Ep. 16 with Adam Church of Coastal Fire Training
In this episode of Life After The Fire, Chris welcomes Adam Church to the show to discuss Coastal Fire Training.
Coastal Fire Training is a company that focuses on training firefighters on respectful entry techniques that help protect property when the situation allows. The company focuses primarily on in person, customized training sessions for fire departments but also offers education opportunities through methods such as blog posts and podcasts.
In addition to training, the Coastal Fire Training site provides visitors the opportunity to purchase all the equipment they would need in order to implement respectful entry techniques. Products range from full kits, individual respectful entry tools, and prop locks.
Adam also details how his role with Coastal Fire Training has provided him with the ability to not only generate additional revenue while in the fire service but also grow a business that can set him up for success after he retires from his current role.
If you’re interested in learning more about Coastal Fire Trainings services or on how to become involved as an instructor you can learn more at CoastalFireTraining.com.
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9 May 2023
Life After The Fire Ep. 15 with Real-Estate Investor, Rickey Rodriguez
After generating a number of questions from listeners, Chris welcomes Rickey Rodriquez back to the Life After The Fire podcast to take a deeper dive into his real estate investment journey.
In the episode, Rickey outlines how he got his start in the industry, his portfolio growth over the years, as well as strategies for acquiring new properties. Rickey also briefly highlights his real estate investment group that meets out of Port Saint Lucie, Florida and encourages anyone in the area to join.
Rickey’s story of educating himself and building a substantial real estate portfolio is one that should inspire anyone looking to make their way into the industry as they look to build a rich and fulfilling Life After The Fire.
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2 May 2023
Life After The Fire Ep. 14 with Retired EMS Captain Steve Campana
In this episode of our Life After The Fire, Chris sits down with fellow retired firefighter Steve Campana. In this powerful episode, Steve opens up about his past struggles with addiction and the impact on his career and family.
As Steve details his past history, he highlights the importance of having a structured program like AA has played in his sobriety, the disdain he felt from some of his coworkers after completing his rehab, and the positive impact that sobriety has had on his life.
In this inspiring episode, Steven demonstrates the power of perseverance and determination in overcoming addiction, even in the face of challenging circumstances. Steve’s story serves as both an example and an inspiration for anyone struggling with substance abuse in the fire service.
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25 Apr 2023
Life After The Fire Ep. 13 with Captain Mike Zingaro
In this episode of Life After The Fire, Chris sits down with Captain Mike Zingaro, a firefighter who, on his off days, has a second career as a real estate agent. Mike talks about the learning curve he faced in making the transition from fighting fires to selling houses as well as how his firefighting skills has prepared him for his new career.
Mike shares with Chris and listeners the path he took to get into real estate, some of the mentors he has had along the way, and how the second career has prepared him for his future transition into retirement.
As with many of the show's other guests, Mike emphasizes the need for firefighters to have a plan for their lives after retirement and how pursuing a new career can help with that transition.
Overall, Mike’s story is a reminder that firefighters are more than just their jobs and have the potential to excel in many different fields. He also inspires listeners to pursue their passions and explore new career paths, even after retirement.
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18 Apr 2023
Life After The Fire Ep. 12 with Dave Markle from Shoot-Da-Gator
In this week's episode of Life After The Fire Chris sits down with Dave Markle of SHOOT-DA-GATOR OUTFITTERS GUIDE SERVICES. After briefly recounting their past histories in the fire service, Dave discusses his current project which he is building out during his final few years in the fire service.
Dave runs a guide service out of Florida that specializes in offering guests a once in a lifetime experience on both land and sea. Dave runs fishing trips on his charter fishing boat located in Palm Beach County. For those not as interested in an “on the water” experience, Dave also offers guided trips in central Florida where guests can hunt game such as wild boar, turkey, and deer. While there are no guarantees in the industry, Dave has enough experience in the area to ensure that guests have the best chance of an unforgettable experience.
If you’re interested in learning more you can find Dave at: https://shoot-da-gator.com
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11 Apr 2023
Life After The Fire Ep. 11 with Retired Battalion Chief Steve Neible
In this episode of Life After The Fire, Chris sits down with retired battalion chief Steve Neible. Chris and Steve’s career paths merged when they both served as volunteer firefighters in the Nashville, Tennessee area after they both served long careers in the fire service.
After spending 25 years with the fire service in Illinois, Steve retired and made the move to Tennessee. As with many firefighters, during his time in the service Steve operated a lawn care business to generate additional income on the side prior to growing his family. After having his second child, Steve chose to take the family route and spend extra time with his kids during his days off.
In his post fire career life, Steve and his wife are enjoying retirement without the need to work thanks to their combined pensions. Smart financial planning and living within their means during their careers allowed both of them to retire with peace of mind in the life after the fire. This podcast is great for anyone looking to retire off of their pension and learn how to set themselves up financially to live within their means.
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You can also visit us at LATFPodcasts.com to stay up to date with each episode.
4 Apr 2023
Life After The Fire Ep. 10 with Jimm Walsh
In this episode of Life After The Fire, Chris sits down with long-time friend and fellow retired firefighter Jimm Walsh. Jimm's story is truly an inspiration and a testament to his resilience. Chris and Jimm spend a portion of the podcast discussing their history and Jimm’s influence in the conception of the Life After The Fire podcast. The majority of the time, however, is focused on Jimm’s recount of the tragic stroke that prematurely ended his career.
While Jimm’s recovery has been incredible, he did find himself somewhat unprepared for the next chapter of his following his time in the fire service. This led to a desire to raise awareness to others in the field to ensure that they have the means to live a comfortable life and take advantage of all the opportunities the career provides for their life after the fire.
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28 Mar 2023
Life After The Fire Ep. 9 with Peter Codispoti of Town Management Services
In this episode of the Life After The Fire Podcast, Chris is joined by retired firefighter and owner of Town Management Services, Peter Codispoti. Town Management Services is a property management firm in Palm Beach County, Florida that also has a number of construction projects associated with its name. Peter started his journey in the property management realm as a young firefighter when he put an ad in the paper looking for opportunities to live on property as a caretaker in exchange for free rent. From there he began to develop a business around the concept of property management. Chris and Peter both discuss the parallels between their current roles and their time in the fire service, with both agreeing that their experience as firefighters prepared them well for the service oriented nature of both property management and the mortgage industry.
Peter rounds out the podcast with a bit of advice for anyone looking to transition out of the fire service. Peter encourages younger firefighters (and anyone looking to retire in a good financial position) to start putting money away each month immediately. While the allure of nights out and large trucks may seem irresistible, Peter urges listeners to think toward their future.
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21 Mar 2023
Ep. 8 with Retired Battalion Chief Tom Murphy
In episode eight of the Life After The Fire Podcast, Chris sits down with retired battalion chief Tom Murphy. Tom and Chris have known each other through the fire service for over thirty years when they were still volunteers. After reminiscing briefly on their past experience, Tom focuses on highlighting the importance of budgeting as a young firefighter.
Falling in line with many of the guest that Chris has featured on the podcast, Tom explains how many young firefighters and first responders can be enchanted with the benefits of the job that they do not consider the fact that they may need to make additional arrangements in order to secure a high quality of life after their career in the fire service. Tom details the budget he, along with his wife, implemented in order to be able to set extra money aside each month and prepare for their future.
Tom wraps up the podcast by describing how his strategy has put him in a position where he is now able to enjoy retirement without the financial burden that may have been present had he not prepared.
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14 Mar 2023
Ep. 7 with Randi Eisenshtat from Northwestern Mutual
In episode seven of Life After The Fire Podcast, Chris welcomes his first non-firefighter guest, Randi Eisenshtat of Northwestern Mutual. In a unique episode, Randi speaks heavily on her experience in the financial services industry. As she mentions in the episode, many firefighters are retiring at a younger age and are not prepared for the number of years they will be out of the job.
Randi spends the majority of the podcast laying out a variety of options specifically for firefighters in order to ensure the younger generation are prepared going into the tail end of their career. This episode is perfect for anyone looking to take control of their finances as they continue to develop in their career.
If you are interested in learning more about preparing for retirement feel free to reach out to Randi at Randi.Eisenshtat@nm.com
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7 Mar 2023
Ep. 6 with Jason Patton of The Fire Department Chronicles
Life After The Fire Ep. 6 with Jason Patton
In this week's episode Chris sits down with firefighter / comedian Jason Patton. Jason currently serves as the vice president of Fire Dept. Coffee, which is a veteran-owned company that was inspired by the vital role coffee plays in ensuring first responders stay alert throughout the course of their shift. The company also supports fellow firefighters through the Fire Dept. Coffee foundation which gives back to those who have suffered injuries on the job, both mental and physical.
Even more unique, Jason has also grown a large following on social media thanks to The Fire Department Chronicles series which highlights some real life experiences Jason has had in the fire service with a comedic undertone. Finally, Jason and Chris discuss the mental side of a career in the fire service and how the next generation can prepare himself for the challenges of the job from a mental health standpoint.
If your interested in seeing more from Jason Patton you can find him on TikTok @ https://www.tiktok.com/@firedepartmentchronicles?_t=8aL9ly7rTg2&_r=1
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28 Feb 2023
Ep. 5 with Mark Wechsler
In this episode of Life After The Fire, Chris sits down with former coworker Mark Wechsler to relive old memories, discuss Mark’s current projects, and offer up advice to the next generation of firefighters. Both Chris and Mark had the opportunity to serve on the pension board during their time in the fire service and shared a passion for ensuring that their fellow firefighters were financially supported post-retirement. Mark’s post-retirement career followed in the same line of public service as he went on to graduate from PA school and provide care in a medical setting. Mark details the education process, barriers to entry, and career opportunities. As a common theme, Mark and Chris discuss the unique situation where firefighters are eligible to retire at a young age and may not be prepared for the rest of what life has to offer in the years following. As a final piece of advice, Mark tells young firefighters who may have an interest in joining the medical field to pay special attention to the patient communication and assessment portion of the occupation. This episode offers a glimpse of what possibilities are available to the next generation of firefighters as they seek to transition into their Life After The Fire.
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21 Feb 2023
Ep. 4 with Shaun Fix
In episode four of the Life After The Fire Podcast, Chris sits down with retired EMS captain Shaun Fix. After spending over 35 years in the fire service, Sean retired and pivoted toward medical training for first responders and doctor's offices. After originally founding the company while still working in the fire service, the company has since grown to over 120 instructors training 20,000 participants per year.
Shaun and Chris then go on to discuss the issue of mental health in the fire service, specifically incidents that are induced by the daily challenges of the job. While the larger incidents are easier to identify as potentially detrimental to mental health, more subtle events may go unchecked and lead to long-term negative effects.
Not only is this podcast perfect for anyone looking to transition into medical training once they retire from their career in the fire service but also for anyone interested in an honest discussion on the topic of mental health in the occupation.
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14 Feb 2023
Ep. 3 with Rickey Rodriguez
Life After The Fire Ep. 3 with Rickey Rodriguez
In this episode of Life After The Fire Chris sits down with former co-worker Rickey Rodriguez. While Rickey has not yet transitioned into retirement this episode highlights how he has taken steps throughout his career to better prepare himself for his life outside of the fire service.
After reminiscing over shared experiences during their careers Rickey explains the role education and real estate has played in his preparation for the future. Highly motivated from a young age, Rickey took the initiative to seek out opportunities to advance his education through the benefits provided in the fire service and requested additional funds when available to fast-track his vertical growth and better prepare himself for other opportunities that would come along.
In the real estate space, Rickey has eclipsed over thirty units within his portfolio and is constantly seeking out new opportunities for growth within the marketplace. Additionally, for investors in the south Florida area, Rickey has founded a “Sirens and Scrubs” real estate investor meet-up group aimed at first responders and medical professionals. More information can be found on instagram:@RickeyRod
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7 Feb 2023
Ep. 2 Life After The Fire with Jules Tuman
In this episode of Life After The Fire, Chris sits down with former co-worker and longtime friend, retired EMS Captain Jules Tuman to discuss their past work history and catch up on what she has been involved with in her time since leaving the fire service. Jules explains how she leveraged her career in the fire service and the benefits provided to firefighters to find a sense of financial security in retirement.
Strong planning has allowed Jules to dedicate time to projects she enjoys which includes flight medicine, boating, and teaching. She also touches on a charity she is involved with called Firefighters to the Rescue which places an emphasis on assisting others within the fire service who are struggling financially due to unforeseen circumstances such as family illness. Jules wraps up the podcast by advising young firefighters to be smart financially early in their careers as a means to ensure a comfortable retirement.
Jules and Chris share a lighthearted dialogue that accomplishes a larger goal of highlighting what young firefighters should consider in the early stages of their career. This podcast is perfect for anyone looking to explore paths to financial freedom to ensure they are prepared for their Life After The Fire.
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24 Jan 2023
Ep. 1 Life After The Fire with Sam Eaton
Ep. 1 with Sam Eaton
In the inaugural episode of Life After The Fire, host Chris Phelps sits down with Retired Battalion Chief Sam Eaton to discuss a life following a career in the fire service. Sam discusses the various health concerns firefighters face while in the line of duty that may not be an immediately apparent danger. Eaton give insights into how firefighters can protect themselves and highlights organizations that raise awareness for those in the profession.
Whether you’re a member of the firefighter community or have a loved one who has had a career in the fire service, this episode is a somber reminder that no one is invincible but there are ways to protect yourself and enjoy a healthy Life After The Fire.
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