Firefighters Global Consulting - Behind The Smoke

In this episode, we go over our most popular AND controversial Instagram post. We explain our reasoning behind each of the 5 ways as we double down on our advice to those in and outside the fire service. Agree or disagree? Let us know again!

The return of Adamo, the meeting of the minds, the first time all 3 of us sat down in front of the mics together. Fan requested episode where the banter IS the topic.

In this episode, we break down the critical differences between virtual and in-person firefighter interviews. We cover the unique challenges of presenting yourself on camera, how to "read the room" when you aren't actually in it, and the technical pitfalls that can instantly derail your chances. Learn how to build a genuine connection with the panel, stand out, and prove you're the right fit for the crew. Even when it's all done virtually!

In this fan requested episode, we dig into a valid worry some candidates have; will my speech impediment stop be from becoming a firefighter? We go over the reasons why it may or may not impede your progress, and how to tackle the issue head on.

In this episode, we decode the "experience gap" and explain exactly why hiring panels hesitate on younger candidates. More importantly, we give you a concrete, 3-to-5-year blueprint to build an undeniable profile We cover the best jobs to hold right now, the volunteering that actually matters, and how to prove you have the maturity to handle life-or-death emergencies. Stop guessing what the panel wants to see.

In this episode, we break down the concept of the "Fire Profile" and answer one of the most common questions aspiring candidates ask us: Where should I volunteer? We’re cutting through the resume-padding myths and diving into four specific volunteer "genres" that build the exact traits Recruitment Officers are looking for. We’ll show you how to find a volunteer opportunity you're passionate about, and how to translate those hours into interview gold.

In this episode, we break down the most common past lives of firefighters, from tradesmen and military veterans to corporate office workers and retail grinders. We’re diving into the exact pros and cons each background brings to the academy floor and the fire station. Find out how your previous career can actually be your greatest asset (or your biggest blind spot) when transitioning into the fire service.

In this episode, we break down what it actually means to take ownership of your health in the fire service. From surviving the academy and probation to ensuring your career longevity, you can't wait or expect for the department to protect you at every turn. We’re covering the hard truths of the job; from reporting injuries, to critical importance of sleep hygiene, to how to proactively combat the quiet killers of our profession - cancer and PTSD. Tune in and take care of yourselves!

In this episode we sit down with Stephen majestic to discuss and learn about how firefighters can invest, save, and plan for retirement! Stephen Majetic is a financial advisor and entrepreneur, and the founder of Everwealth. After starting his career in banking, he spent the past 12 years building an independent practice focused on honest, client-first advice. Stephen is known for breaking down complex financial strategies into clear, practical terms, so clients feel confident and fully understand their decisions—something that truly sets him apart from the typical advisory experience.

Introducing the newest member of the FGC team! Brendan Nelson! Brendan has been a career firefighter for 5 years now spending the last year and a half on the Hazmat team. Previously Brendan was a volunteer firefighter in Point Roberts, Washington. He is also Currently the director of fundraising for World Police Fire Games Club in his department . Partnered with Firefighters Global Consulting in 2025 stepping into the role of Client Acquisition President.

Mike is a Company Officer in a California fire department and the founder of Front Seat Academy, an online leadership and promotional preparation platform designed to expand access and opportunity for firefighters pursuing advancement. With over 14 years in the fire service, Mike has served in multiple operational roles including engine operator, tiller operator, truck driver, and fire boat pilot. His experience includes suppression operations, multi-company incidents, maritime response, and high-performance team environments. Beyond operations, Mike has been actively involved in labor leadership for nearly a decade and currently serve in an executive association role. His writing has been featured in national fire service publications, with additional work accepted for future release. Through Front Seat Academy, He has designed and built a comprehensive self-paced online program focused on preparing firefighters for the promotional process. The curriculum includes leadership development, interview preparation, role-play scenarios, in-basket exercises, essay writing, and tactical simulations. The mission is to help capable firefighters translate real-world experience into assessable performance and step confidently into the officer role.

In this episode we sit down with Sgt. Terry Parma of the Vancouver police recruiting team. Terry launched his policing career in 2007 as a Custodial Guard at the Vancouver Jail. After graduating from the Justice Institute of BC, he served in various roles across Districts 2 and 3, worked in Recruiting, and became a Neighbourhood Police Officer at the Khalsa Diwan Community Police Office. As a Sergeant, he had the opportunity to return to the VPD Jail to coach and mentor the next generation of law enforcement officers. Since 2022, Terry has been one of four Sergeants in the Recruiting section. Throughout his career, Terry has spearheaded numerous youth and community initiatives that have made a lasting impact within the VPD. His dedication and service have earned him multiple commendations, including the two Chief Constable’s Commendations, the Lieutenant Governor’s Award of Valour, and the Vancouver Police Foundation’s Community Volunteer of the Year.

Matt Johnston is a full-time fire officer and the CEO of First Responder Health Services (FRH). A trained mental health clinician, Matt co-founded the Occupational Awareness Training (OAT) Program in 2017 following a cluster of suicides within the fire service. The OAT Program focuses on upstream mental health training for frontline workers and currently supports more than 10,000 participants across British Columbia. Combining 25 years of training in the mental health field with firsthand experience responding to nearly 5,000 emergency calls, Matt develops evidence-informed programs aimed at strengthening mental wellness and reducing suicide risk among first responders. Since founding FRH, the organization’s education platforms have delivered mental health training to over 100,000 users across Canada.

On this episode we sit down with Alex from adaptable strength. Alex comes from a family with strong military roots and went into the First Responder field in 2019 in the Dispatch Room. He stayed in the 911 field until December of 2023. After getting fed up with responding after emergencies happened and watching co worker's health decline from the job he took his decades of lifting and personal health improvement to the professional scale and began Personal Training and online coaching. He takes individualized coaching to the extreme with the specialties of working with First Responders and those with "odd life circumstances." Nowadays Alex takes on many roles in the unusual areas of health and fitness through his coaching with military/First Responders, coaching the Chester County Special Olympics Powerlifting Team, working with 98 Octane - a nonprofit for improving the health of military and first responders, and developing training resources for individuals with Autism and IDD with another non profit EmpowerU Specialty Fitness.

Paul Tylla is the creator of HEAL and co-founder of drinkheal.ca, co-owner of Frontline Functional Training and Martial Arts, and a lifelong public servant committed to building healthier people and communities. His career spans 28 years as a professional firefighter, supported by earlier service as a U.S. Navy rescue swimmer, where teamwork, discipline, and a calm under pressure mindset were essential in high-risk environments. Beyond his operational career, Paul is the charitable founder and current president of the DNV Firefighters Charitable Society, where he supports initiatives where firefighters work to raise funds awareness for community-based causes. His entrepreneurial and charitable work is grounded in service, accountability, and purposeful action. Paul’s mission is deeply personal. He was a primary caregiver for his wife, Linda Tylla, during her battle with ALS, an experience that reshaped his understanding of strength, vulnerability, and the importance of compassionate systems of care. In her honour, HEAL focuses its charitable giving on the ALS community, translating lived experience into meaningful advocacy, support, and impact for others facing similar challenges

Dr. Daniel Higuera is a professor of Kinesiology at Santa Ana College. He works with approximately 2000 firefighters per year across 20 fire departments in Southern California providing health and wellness education and interventions. He educates on topics such as sleep health, cardiovascular disease, physical performance, and cancer prevention. His research focuses on the applicability of wearable technology for firefighters.

We sit down again with Sach, after his amazing run across Canada to raise awareness for mental health. We talk about his experience and the people he met along his way. It was great to have him back on the show! Check out: https://sachinmotion.ca/

We once again take questions from our followers and answer them on the podcast. Questions such as "Do Firefighters and Cops hate each other?" and What are the qualities you value most in a new member?" Enjoy!

In today's episode, we went over what we were both feeling in the moment - burnout. We explore some of the causes, signs, and discuss practical strategies for prevention & resilience in one of the most demanding yet rewarding professions. If you are just getting on or you're an old salty dog, don't skip this one out.

Get ready to suit up! This week's episode takes you inside the fast paced, real-world drills of firefighter recruitment. We’re breaking down the essential skills stations; from mastering the charged hose line and ladder raises to navigating zero-visibility search scenarios. If your skills test is coming up, you won't want to miss this one!