FireRescue1’s Better Every Shift Podcast spotlights the passion and perseverance of firefighters. Hosted by Madison, Wisconsin, Firefighter Aaron Zamzow, the show brings kitchen table conversations to the airwaves, always focused on solutions, positivity and the realities of station life. Zamzow and guests tackle myriad hot topics, whether fire service, news or even pop culture-focused, bringing some levity to the often very serious nature of the profession. Dig into what drives firefighters to improve themselves, their crew, even the fire service as a whole. Listen in to get better every day, every call, every shift.
Episodes
Thursday Apr 06, 2023
Thursday Apr 06, 2023
In this episode of the podcast, sponsored by L3Harris, Chief Ron Siarnicki, executive director of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), reflects on his 20-plus years with the Foundation and what’s next for him personally after so many years working with firefighter families.
The chief, who recently announced his upcoming retirement – but not his successor (yet) – details the Foundation’s extraordinary evolution since 2001, when 9/11 forever changed its course; shares his 9/11 story – the early NYC setup, the often-disbelieved story of the unlimited credit card, the Foundation’s ongoing support to FDNY; and offers a key reminder to his successor.
Plus, we get into all this: Building resilience in a role focused on fatalities; the Life Safety Initiative with the most impact; and how his “builder” mindset helped him throughout his career.
Don’t miss: The person who had the biggest impact on his career
Episode power quote: “We have to be open and supportive and not be threatened by those who come behind us. You gotta take somebody under your wing somewhere along the way.”
Hot seat sneak peek: The chief’s apparatus collection – yes, collection
Resources we mentioned on the show
- ‘We needed to do more’: The evolution of support in the aftermath of tragedy
- 16 Firefighter Life Safety Initiatives
- First Responder Center for Excellence
- Memorial Weekend
- Light the Night for Fallen Firefighters
Connect with us
Email bettereveryshift@firerescue1.com to share your feedback!
Enjoying the show? Please take a moment to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts.