In this episode, Matt, Freddy, Doug, and Unkie dive into a topic that every firefighter and first responder can relate to: work-life balance.

• Balancing Shift Work & Family Life – The unique challenges of a firefighter’s schedule and how it impacts time with loved ones.

• The Evolution of Side Jobs – Then vs. now: why firefighters used to have trade jobs versus today’s modern side hustles like consulting, online businesses, and social media marketing.

• The Financial Reality of Firefighting – How increased salaries have changed the need for second jobs, but also why financial struggles still exist.

• Time Off – The Perk of the Job – The benefits of long stretches of days off and how it allows firefighters to pursue passions, side businesses, or just enjoy time at home.

• Mental Health & Workload Management – Recognizing stress, preventing burnout, and finding ways to decompress.

• Family First Mentality – A stark reality: Your family will always be there, but your job will be posted a week after you’re gone.

• Learning From Experience – Lessons from firefighters who have balanced (or failed to balance) their careers and personal lives.

🔥 How do you balance your work and home life?🔥 What strategies have worked for you in maintaining a healthy balance?🔥 Any hard-learned lessons you’d share with rookies?

We want to hear from YOU! Drop us a message and let us know how you navigate work-life balance in the fire service.

👨‍🚒 Brought to you by Unkie’s Seasoning – Low Sodium, High Flavor!🔥 Special mention to The Burn Box for their latest firefighter subscription gear!🔥 Huge thanks to Fireman’s Grooming Company for keeping us looking fresh!🔥 Giveaway Alert! Stay tuned for a 100th episode celebration with prizes from Thin Red Line Decon, Crafty American, and more!

Visit

Email: thecoolfireman@gmail.com

TheCoolFireman.com for merchandise and more

Instagram: @thecoolfireman

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YouTube: @thecoolfireman

📺 Watch our podcast on Spotify and YouTube!🎙️ Available on all major podcast platforms!

At the end of each episode, we honor fallen firefighters and first responders. This week, we remember two Virginia Beach police officers who lost their lives in the line of duty.

Thanks for tuning in! Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and connect with us on social media. Stay safe out there! 🚒🔥

Key Topics Discussed:Listener Takeaways:Shoutouts & Partnerships:Subscribe & WatchMoment of Silence

In this episode of The Cool Fireman Podcast, Matt, Brian, Doug, and Unkie dive into the unwritten rules (and written ones) that shape life in the firehouse. From popcorn machines (allowed or outlawed?) to station pride logos and uniformity debates, we tackle the battle between tradition, compromise, and common sense.

👀 Do you have a policy in the book with your name on it? We talk about habitual line-steppers, the stories behind some of the most ridiculous firehouse policies, and when the small things start to matter way too much.

Plus:
🔥 Should firefighters be allowed to wear station pride shirts?
🔥 The debate over untucked shirts—professional or not?
🔥 Compromise in the firehouse: Where is the line?
🔥 Why a good company officer is the key to firehouse culture.

As always, we keep it real, keep it fun, and keep it spicy—just like Unkie’s Seasoning and The Burn Box! 🚒🔥

Visit

Email: thecoolfireman@gmail.com

TheCoolFireman.com for merchandise and more

Instagram: @thecoolfireman

Tiktok: @thecoolfireman

YouTube: @thecoolfireman

Special Sponsors:

Unkies Seasonings https://unkiesseasoning.com/?srsltid=AfmBOopye_NRki8Ev9I4qy6ACkI3dw59rhjleSp0Bw-ilcB-lmT3M_G-

Burn Box https://www.theburnbox.com/

WestBroad Apparel https://www.westbroadapparel.com/

🎧 Listen in, laugh with us, and let us know: What’s the dumbest firehouse policy you’ve seen? #TheCoolFiremanPodcast

When Battalion Chief Rick Grassel first saw six Teslas charging at a station, one thought hit him—what would I do if those were on fire? And the answer? He didn't know. That realization launched a deep dive into electric vehicle (EV) fire response, battery dangers, and the evolving challenges firefighters face on the frontline.

In this episode, Matt, Doug, Brian, and Unkie sit down with Chief Grassel to break down:
⚡ The real problem – It’s not just EVs, it’s batteries everywhere!
🔥 The dangers of thermal runaway and why EV fires don’t just go out
🚗 Extrication challenges – Cutting into high-voltage vehicles safely
🌊 The insane amount of water needed to put out an EV fire (or should we just let them burn?)
🔬 How off-market, non-UL tested batteries might be the next fire service nightmare

This is the fire service reality check you didn’t know you needed. Whether you’re in the trenches or just EV-curious, this one is a must-listen!

Visit

Email: thecoolfireman@gmail.com

TheCoolFireman.com for merchandise and more

Instagram: @thecoolfireman

Tiktok: @thecoolfireman

YouTube: @thecoolfireman

Special Sponsors:

Unkies Seasonings https://unkiesseasoning.com/?srsltid=AfmBOopye_NRki8Ev9I4qy6ACkI3dw59rhjleSp0Bw-ilcB-lmT3M_G-

Burn Box https://www.theburnbox.com/

👂 Listen now and let us know – Is your department ready for EV fires? 🚨

#EVFires #BatteryDangers #FirefighterTraining #TheCoolFiremanPodcast

In this episode ofThe Cool Fireman Podcast, we sit down withTonya Herbert fromThin Red Line Decon to talk about something every firefighter should be thinking about—decontamination. 🚿🔥

We dive into thedangers of toxic exposure,how to get PFAS out of your gear, and thereal impact of PAHs after a fire. Tonya even breaks down whichfireground position had the highest contamination readings (and the answer might surprise you 👀). Plus, she tells us all about her“Did You Decon?” sticker—a simple reminder that could save lives.

If you're serious aboutprotecting yourself, your crew, and your family from the long-term risks of the job, this is an episode youcan’t afford to miss.

Visit

Email: thecoolfireman@gmail.com

TheCoolFireman.com for merchandise and more

Instagram: @thecoolfireman

Tiktok: @thecoolfireman

YouTube: @thecoolfireman

🎧Listen now on all podcast platforms!
💬Tag a firefighter who needs to hear this!

#TheCoolFiremanPodcast #Episode94 #ThinRedLineDecon #FirefighterHealth #DidYouDecon #CancerPrevention #CleanGearCleanFirefighters #DeconMatters 🚒💨

There’sno assigned seating in the firehouse… but let’s be real, we all know there is. 🚒👀

In this episode,Matt, Brian, Freddy, Unkie, and Doug dive into the unspoken rules of the firehouse, from thekitchen table hierarchy torecliner battles and even thesleeping arrangements that can make or break your shift. We break down:

🔥 The deep-rootedrespect andtradition behind where you sit.
🔥 Therookie vs. senior firefighter pecking order.
🔥 Theunwritten rules of shift change, from making your bed to not beingthat guy who sleeps past 6:45.
🔥 Assigned roles on the fire engine—whyanticipation is key to working smarter and faster.
🔥 Super Bowl predictions (because we had to).

We even get intofireground assignments,hydrant vs. tank water debates, and why you don’t mess with someone else’s bed at the station. Oh, and Doug wasdefinitely here for this episode.

Visit

Email: thecoolfireman@gmail.com

TheCoolFireman.com for merchandise and more

Instagram: @thecoolfireman

Tiktok: @thecoolfireman

YouTube: @thecoolfireman

🎧 Listen now, and let us know—what’s your firehouse seating situation? 🏆💺

#TheCoolFiremanPodcast #FirehouseLife #NoAssignedSeatsButReallyThereAre #KitchenTablePolitics #RespectTheSeat

🎙️ The Cool Fireman Podcast: Featuring Lieutenant Nathan Helten of Handy Hook

🔥 In this episode, the crew welcomes Lieutenant Nathan Helten, creator of the Handy Hook, to talk about his incredible journey in the fire service and how he designed an innovative tool to make firefighters' lives easier. From rural beginnings in Kansas to founding a game-changing product, Nathan shares his passion for problem-solving and his commitment to improving the fire service.

Highlights:

• 🚒 Baptized by Fire: Nathan recalls his first fire and the awe of standing in a burning room while breathing normally.
• 🛠️ The Handy Hook Story: Learn how Nathan saw the need for a better solution to keep gloves accessible and ready for action, leading to the invention of the Handy Hook.
• 🏡 Country Life: Nathan shares his love for living off the grid, building his dream home, and being able to "take a leak off the front porch without worrying about neighbors."
• 💪 Innovation Process: From 3D printing over 200 prototypes to collaborating with local businesses for manufacturing, Nathan breaks down the journey of creating and perfecting the Handy Hook.
• 🏞️ Rural Firefighting Challenges: Nathan discusses his career progression from a volunteer firefighter in Eureka, Kansas, to becoming a lieutenant and rescue expert in Sedgwick County.
• 🔥 Firefighter Culture: The crew laughs about mustaches, fireground traditions, and adapting to new tools in a field where habits run deep.

Quick Links:

• Handy Hook Website: myhandyhook.com
• Follow Handy Hook:
• • Instagram: @myhandyhooks
  • TikTok: @Thehandyhook
  • Facebook: Handy Hook
  • YouTube: Handy Hook Channel
• Get Your Handy Hook: Order online and elevate your turnout game.

Moment of Silence: The team takes a moment to honor fallen first responders.

Sponsors:

• 🌶️ Unkie’s Seasoning: Bring the heat to your meals with the perfect blend of spices.
• 📦 The Burn Box: Monthly firefighter-themed gear, including tools, apparel, and collectibles.

Turnout Drill: Nathan answers rapid-fire questions about his favorite holiday, dream superpower, and what it means to live life in the country.

👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to The Cool Fireman Podcast on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts to stay updated on weekly episodes and exclusive clips. Follow us on social media for behind-the-scenes content and highlights from our episodes.

🎧 New episodes drop every Friday!

In this powerful episode, we welcome back Kenny Mitchell from Operation Yellow Tape to dive deep into the challenges of firefighter mental health, the stigma of silence, and how we can build better support systems. 🔥 Highlights from the episode: Kenny’s candid thoughts on why he’s tired of hearing, “Rest easy, gone too soon.” The importance of accountability and recognizing your own behaviors before it’s too late. Why every firefighter needs a strong inner circle and practical steps to tackle the mental load of the job. Strategies for starting peer support systems, even in small departments. This isn’t just about the job—it’s about staying here for the people who need you the most. 💪 🎙️ Available Friday, January 24th, on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you listen. 👉 Follow Kenny Mitchell: 📬 Join the Operation Yellow Tape newsletter: https://www.kennymitchelljr.com/oyt 📸 Instagram: @kennymitchellfire #MentalHealthMatters #FirefighterSupport #OperationYellowTape #StayStrong #TheCoolFiremanPodcast

This week on The Cool Fireman Podcast, we’re joined by the one and only Salty Paramedic – now revealed as Cody! 🎉 🔥 Cody’s hilarious stories, including the time he came up with his best idea… on the toilet. 💡 🔥 The behind-the-scenes scoop on his viral social media journey. 🔥 The real story behind Limp Hoses, his new card game for first responders. 🔥 A heartfelt look at mental health in the fire service and why he’s writing Don’t Lose Yourself, his upcoming mental health guide. Visit: Email: thecoolfireman@gmail.com TheCoolFireman.com for merchandise and more Instagram: @thecoolfireman Tiktok: @thecoolfireman YouTube: @thecoolfireman Where can you find The Salty Paramedic: TikTok: @TheSaltyParamedic_ LIMP HOSES GAME: https://www.thegamecrafter.com/games/limp-hoses DON'T LOSE YOURSELF BOOK: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DSSWTHY2/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_api_gl_7FSAMPFK6XT41A9313SN?linkCode=ml1&tag=codyspauldi-20 We’re talking laughs, life, and the firehouse kitchen table vibes you know and love. This is one you don’t want to miss! 🎧 Catch it now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. 📲 Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share! #CoolFiremanPodcast #SaltyParamedic #FirefighterLife #MentalHealthMatters #LimpHoses #PodcastLife