The Fire Officer Project
A Fire Service related podcast where we discuss multiple topics including Firehouse Traditions & Culture, Leadership, the Fire Family Life as well as getting yourself on the path to becoming a Fire Officer. Join your host, Mark McCurdy as we have Real Talk discussions with no holding back.There is so much to cover, so tune in and send in your topic ideas ...
Disclaimer: Any and all information contained in these podcast episodes is strictly for informational purposes only and DOES NOT represent an official opinion/stance of my Department or any previous Departments I have worked for or mention. All information provided is my personal opinion based on experience and is only to be used for educational purposes as a suggestion or guidance. I am not and do not claim to be an official representative of any agency or department.
Episodes
25 episodes
Episode 24 - Wear Your Seatbelt
In this episode we discuss a recent conversation with a Probationary Firefighter, your self worth, what the "new generation" is doing well and a call to action to pass on your knowledge before the window closes.If you are interested in 1...
Episode 23 - L.A. Firestorm
In this episode we talk about the recent devastating Firestorms in Los Angeles. Lessons learned and areas to consider. As well as influences causing the long break. The Fire You Carry episode referenced in the show:
Episode 22 - Death By Salt Shaker
In this episode we talk about the importance of attention to detail...This is a clean episode intended for kids as well. With two tween daughters in sports, the emphasis is on how the small things can add up and the importance of attent...
Episode 21 - Control Your Future
In this episode we discuss ways to control your future...PACE yourself for promotion and ways to be successful when you do promote. Topics include:- Don't be concerned with what others are doing- Setting goals- Do more than the mini...
Episode 20 - Legacy
In this episode we talk about the kind of legacy you want to leave...Thanks for listening !! Please leave any comments ,suggestions or thoug...
Episode 19 - The Mission
In this episode we talk about The Mission of the Fire Service...and the importance of keeping that the goal as the Company Officer. (excuse the annoying fan noise from my computer)Thanks for listening !! &...
Episode 18 - Morale
In this episode we talk about morale and some suggestions on how to increase it and improve on what you are already doing...Interviews are a go !! Listen till the end for info about the process and how to connect with the show...
Episode 17 - Work / Life Balance
In this episode we talk about the Work / Life Balance for firefighters. Some ideas and tips that have helped me in my career...Interviews are a go !! Listen till the end for info about the process and how to connect with the show...
Episode 16 - Operational Mindset
In this episode we discuss Operations. These are big topics and are mainly focused on setting up a good foundation. Topics covered: Being the IC, MCI,RIT / RIC and handling a Mayday situation as the IC. Let me know your thoughts...<...
Episode 15 - Probation
In this episode we discuss being on Probation...as a new Firefighter and in rank. Just scratching the surface on this topic, more to come. Let me know your thoughts...Topics discussed: - Testing "back in the day"- Tips for do...
Episode 14 - Lets Talk Fire
In this episode we talk shop - a little fire talk and the following topics:- Good habits- The Old Timers- Learning curve- SOP/SOG review- Fireground disciplineAt the end of the episode we answer a Question From The S...
Episode 13 - Firehouse Reputations
In this episode we discuss how Firehouses have reputations and what you can do to make yours the best it can be... At the end of the episode we answer a Question From The Streets...Please leave any comments or suggestions via em...
Episode 12 - When is the right time to promote ?
In this episode we discuss when is the right time for you to promote. The first 10 minutes is an update and explanation for the 4 month break that occurred. Topics covered:- Motivating factors to promote- Is promoting in you...
Episode 11 - The Kitchen Table
In this episode we will discuss the Firehouse kitchen table. Traditions and symbolism At the end of the episode we answer a Question From The Streets...Please leave any comments or suggestions via email at
Episode 10 - Allow Yourself To Be New
This episode focuses on giving yourself time to be new. Why its okay to make mistakes and how instant gratification can ruin your ability to let yourself be new. Some new things that are available are discussed as well as a "Question from the A...
Episode 9 - Update and future plans
Update episode - Recent events and plans for the future of this podcast and a new idea for coaching and growing this idea...We also discuss a question sent in from IG stories... Thank you for your support and as you listen pleas...
Episode 8: Command Presence: Part II
Continuation from the previous episode. We will discuss the following topic:How do we obtain incident command presence ?We will discuss ideas and situations regarding operational tactics and throw in a couple stories. This...
Episode 7 - Command Presence: Part I
This episode focuses on Command Presence. Topics included:(Language warning for this episode)1. Definition 2. Examples3. How to increase your Command Presence Please leave any comments or suggestions via email at
Episode 6 - Organizing You
In this episode we focus on Organization for the Company Officer. Topics included:Time ManagementCommand presence Morning apparatus routineMorning office routineCommand NotebookHow d...
Episode 5 - Expectations
In this episode we focus on Expectations. - What do you expect from yourself as the Company Officer ? - What do you expect of your crew ? - What can your crew expect from you ?As mentioned i...
Episode 4 - First Day as the Company Officer
An update and some recent news about the podcast. In this episode we will discuss what it is like Day 1 as a Company Officer. Topics included are:- Getting ready before the promotion happens- Time Management- My first day (and w...
Episode 3 - Early Beginnings: Starting off on the right foot
In this episode we discuss some ideas and concepts for new Company Officers. Some of the ideas discussed are:- SOP & SOG's- Reputation- "The Red Dot"- Captain Good TimesWe lean a little into leadership idea...
Episode 2 - The Foundation
In this episode we talk about laying the foundation towards promoting. Topics discussed are: setting goals and timelines for promotion, self assessment, how to prepare yourself for the long haul, finding a mentor and more...Stay tuned f...