Fire to Light: Transforming Challenges into Opportunities. From Brampton to Costa Rica: A Firefighter’s Journey to Healing and Purpose | Beneath the Helmet with Brandon Evans and Host Arjuna George What happens when a firefighter walks away from the job “too early”? In this raw and revealing episode of Beneath the Helmet, Retired Fire Chief Arjuna George sits down with Brandon Evans, former firefighter turned wellness entrepreneur and founder of Fire to Light, to talk about leaving the fire service, battling burnout, and redefining what it means to live a full, purpose-driven life.Brandon shares his powerful personal journey from suiting up in Brampton, Ontario, to running mental fitness programs in Costa Rica. He opens up about the trauma that pushed him to the edge, the healing practices that brought him back, and the global research that’s changing how we view firefighter mental health. From wildland firefighting to international backpacking to leading mental wellness initiatives, Brandon’s story is a call to action for anyone ready to move from fire to light.Topics Covered:Why he left the fire service early and what he learned about himselfSurviving Operational Stress Injury and building a toolbox for mental recoveryCreating a new life in Costa Rica with family at the centerThe truth about mental health training gaps in fire departments worldwideThe power of storytelling and vulnerability in fire service leadershipWhat “mental fitness” really means, and how to build itIf you’re a firefighter, fire chief, or first responder searching for more than just survival, this episode is for you. Whether you’re battling burnout, contemplating a transition, or simply seeking a more balanced and fulfilling path, Brandon’s honesty will hit home. Learn what it means to live intentionally, to lead with your heart, and to discover your light on the other side of the flame.🎧 Listen now and subscribe to Beneath the Helmet for more powerful stories from the frontlines.🔗 Learn more about Brandon’s work: https://firetolight.org📚 Check out Arjuna’s bestselling book Burnt Around the Edges💡 Explore 1:1 coaching, workshops, and TRE sessions at https://silverarrowcoaching.comIgniting 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:00 Meet Brandon Evans 01:13 Brandon's Journey to Firefighting 05:59 Life After Firefighting 09:32 The Impact of COVID-19 10:21 Mental Health Challenges 12:17 Entrepreneurial Ventures 31:33 Fire to Light: The Vision 39:31 Mental Fitness Explained 44:13 Research and Foundation of Fire to Light 44:23 Changes in Perception of Fire Service 45:57 Global Congruency in Fire Service Practices 47:16 Mental Health Training and Cultural Shifts 48:48 Challenges in Implementing Mental Health Programs 55:22 The Power of Storytelling in Leadership 01:08:05 Final Thoughts and Reflections 01:15:39 Overtime and Its Impact on Firefighter Wellness Connect with Brandonbrandon@firetolight.orgwww.firetolight.org@firetolight_firefightersShow Host - Arjuna George - Fire Chief (ret)🚨Stay Connected on Social🚨Facebook https://www.facebook.com/beneaththehelmetshow/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/beneaththehelmetshow/TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@beneaththehelmet?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcLinkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunageorge/Twitter https://twitter.com/AJGeorgefireYoutube https://www.youtube.com/@beneaththehelmetshowYoutube https://www.youtube.com/@beneaththehelmetshorts 📨Linkedin Podcast Newsletter https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7026972684089528321📝Join the BTH Newsletter at https://colossal-trailblazer-6113.ck.page/c0e1b81fbe📺Watch or listen to all the episodes at www.beneaththehelmet.ca📩 Email Host: arjuna@silverarrowco.com

What Is Character-Based Leadership? A New Era for the Fire Service. The Future of Fire Service Leadership Starts Here - Character-Based Leadership Roundtable. In this powerhouse episode of Beneath the Helmet, retired Fire Chief and fire services coach Arjuna George brings together an all-star panel to ignite a new conversation in the fire service, Character-Based Leadership.Featuring thought leaders and fire service veterans:James RychardRobert AvsecAnthony CorreiaScott WilkinsonThis isn’t your average leadership chat. We go deeper, into the human factors, psychology, emotional intelligence, and integrity that define true leadership in public safety.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:22 Meet the Guests04:39 Defining Character-Based Leadership07:03 Leadership Training and Recruitment27:07 Emotional Intelligence in Leadership32:38 Emotional Intelligence and Resilience in Fire Service33:14 Toxic Work Environments and Organizational Stress35:35 The Importance of Psychological Safety36:49 Character-Based Leadership and Its Impact38:08 Innovative Approaches in Fire Service40:42 Developing Leadership Skills and Attributes47:56 Introducing Character-Based Leadership in Seniority-Based Organizations52:24 Resources for Self-Development and Leadership59:19 Personal Leadership Values and North Stars01:04:23 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsWhat You’ll Discover in This Episode:How character, competence, and commitment form the new fire service leadership trifecta (inspired by Ivy Business School research)The role of emotional intelligence in building resilience and psychological safety in the firehouseWhy we need to hire for character and what that means for hiring and promotion practicesHow to start teaching leadership at the recruit level, not the retirement partyThe connection between mental health, toxic workplaces, and leadership cultureWhy character-based leadership could save more firefighters than any tool or tacticMentioned Resources & Institutions:Ivey Business School, Western University (Canada) – Groundbreaking research on leadership characterFire Service Psychology Association (FSPA)Columbia County Fire (GA) – PRIDE-based core value system for evaluationsNFPA 1021 – Opportunities to embed emotional intelligence and character developmentEFO Symposium – Quote by Dr. Kimberly Milani: “We hire for competence. We fire for character.”Books Referenced:Emotional Intelligence 2.0 by Travis BradberryIt’s Your Ship by Capt. D. Michael AbrashoffAmerican Icon by Bryce G. HoffmanResearch and articles by Dr. Mary Crossan (Ivey Business School)Writings of Chief Alan Brunacini (customer service and character leadership pioneer)Gallup Press materials on strengths-based leadershipAction Steps – Get Involved:Ready to be part of the movement? We’ve just launched the Character-Based Leadership LinkedIn Group – a professional hub for sharing insights, resources, and real conversations that matter to the fire service. Join us and help shape the next generation of resilient, authentic leaders.👉 [Join the LinkedIn Character-Based Leadership LinkedIn Group here] https://www.linkedin.com/groups/13260169/Hit LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and SHARE this episode with someone who believes that who you are matters more than just what you do.🎧 Beneath the Helmet — because real leadership starts from the inside out.Arjuna George - Fire Chief (ret)📨Linkedin Podcast Newsletter https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7026972684089528321📝Join the BTH Newsletter at https://colossal-trailblazer-6113.ck.page/c0e1b81fbe📺Watch or Listen to all the episodes at www.beneaththehelmet.ca📩 Email Host: arjuna@silverarrowco.com

Mental Visualization and High Performance: Psychological Tools for First Responders. In this powerful episode of Beneath the Helmet, retired Fire Chief and resilience coach Arjuna George sits down with licensed psychologist Dr. Brendan Guarino, Director of Guardians for Guardians at Baker Street Behavioral Health. Together, they explore the cutting-edge mental performance tools used by athletes, military professionals, and now first responders.Dr. Guarino reveals how mental visualization, biofeedback, and SMART goal setting can help firefighters, police officers, and EMS personnel enhance their mental resilience, manage operational stress injuries, and prepare for life beyond the badge.From helping clients mentally rehearse critical incident scenarios to transitioning out of high-performance roles after retirement, this conversation delivers practical strategies for maintaining peak performance while protecting your mental health.💡 Topics Covered:How first responders can use mental visualization to build confidence under pressureThe role of biofeedback in regulating stress and nervous system responsesCreating structure and identity after retirement or injuryThe importance of goal setting, celebrating wins, and having a self-care blueprintHow to separate work and home life using transition rituals like the “hat on the hook” techniqueWhether you're preparing for a high-stakes call or planning your next chapter after a career of service, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you thrive.00:00 Visualizing Success: Mental Techniques for First Responders Brendan Guarino Ep00:23 Meet Dr. Brendan Guino01:30 Dr. Guino's Background and Journey03:35 Challenges and Realizations10:25 Biofeedback and Visualization Techniques18:12 Transitioning from Athlete to Psychologist19:33 The Importance of Structure and Finding New Passions24:44 Planning for the Future and Gap Years28:43 Understanding the Blueprint of Life28:49 Transitioning from Athlete to Coach29:20 Teaching and Developmental Psychology30:40 Planning for Life After First Response31:55 Finding Purpose Beyond Work34:14 Setting and Achieving Goals42:39 The Importance of Self-Care54:55 Final Thoughts and Encouragement📞 Connect with Dr. Brendan GuarinoDr. Brendan Guarino, Psy.DLicensed Psychologist | Director of Guardians for GuardiansBaker Street Behavioral HealthServing First Responders and Their Families Across the U.S.Website: Baker Street Behavioral Health https://bakerstreetpsych.com/ Arjuna George - Fire Chief (ret)🚨Stay Connected on Social🚨Facebook https://www.facebook.com/beneaththehelmetshow/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/beneaththehelmetshow/TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@beneaththehelmet?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcLinkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunageorge/Twitter https://twitter.com/AJGeorgefireYoutube https://www.youtube.com/@beneaththehelmetshowYoutube https://www.youtube.com/@beneaththehelmetshorts 📨Linkedin Podcast Newsletter https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7026972684089528321📝Join the BTH Newsletter at https://colossal-trailblazer-6113.ck.page/c0e1b81fbe📺Watch or Listen to all the episodes at www.beneaththehelmet.ca📩 Email Host: arjuna@silverarrowco.com

A Lifelong Journey Through Fire and Leadership with Rick Davis. Leading with Integrity: Fireground Wisdom and Life Lessons.What’s missing in today’s fire service leadership? Battalion Chief Rick Davis has a powerful answer — and it’s not another checklist or tactics course. It’s about integrity, moral courage, and the real work of building high-trust crews from the ground up.In this inspiring episode of Beneath the Helmet, Retired Fire Chief Arjuna George sits down with Rick Davis, retired Battalion Chief of Loveland Fire Rescue, author of The Furnace of Leadership Development, podcaster, and founder of the Fire Officer Leadership Academy.

Rick shares his journey from small-town New Jersey to the ranks of the fire service, the critical leadership lessons he learned from the military, and why emotional intelligence and communication are the hardest skills to master.They dive deep into the leadership gaps harming our departments today, and how true character can be the difference between thriving teams and toxic cultures.If you’re a firefighter, officer, or leader who wants to leave a legacy of strength, mentorship, and operational readiness, this episode will light your fire.Learn why every firefighter should be a lifelong student of leadership, why communication skills are as essential as tactics, and how to face the hard truths about cultural dysfunction without losing your soul.Rick’s grounded, no-nonsense advice will leave you rethinking how you lead, how you follow, and what you stand for.Action:📚 Grab a copy of The Furnace of Leadership Development on Amazon.🎙️ Listen to Rick’s podcast: Firehouse Talks with Jersey Rick.🔗 Learn more at FireOfficerLeadershipAcademy.com💥 Subscribe to Beneath the Helmet for more conversations that ignite your leadership potential and protect your mental wellness.Connect with Rick:rick@fireofficerleadershipacademy.comhttps://www.fireofficerleadershipacademy.comConnect with Host:Arjuna George - Fire Chief (ret)🚨Stay Connected on Social🚨Facebook https://www.facebook.com/beneaththehelmetshow/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/beneaththehelmetshow/TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@beneaththehelmet?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcLinkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunageorge/Twitter https://twitter.com/AJGeorgefireYoutube https://www.youtube.com/@beneaththehelmetshowYoutube https://www.youtube.com/@beneaththehelmetshorts 📨Linkedin Podcast Newsletter https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7026972684089528321📝Join the BTH Newsletter at https://colossal-trailblazer-6113.ck.page/c0e1b81fbe📺Watch or Listen to all the episodes at www.beneaththehelmet.ca📩 Email Host: arjuna@silverarrowco.com#FireServiceLeadership #FirefighterWellness #OperationalReadiness #FirehouseCulture #BeneathTheHelmet #RickDavis #ArjunaGeorge #FirstResponderLeadership

Vulnerability Is a Leadership Superpower: Lessons from Deputy Chief Scott Booth

What if the strongest thing a fire service leader could do... was be vulnerable?

In this rich and powerful episode of Beneath the Helmet, retired Fire Chief Arjuna George sits down with Deputy Chief Scott Booth to explore the misunderstood strength of vulnerability in fire service leadership. With over three decades of experience, Booth shares his personal story of trauma, resilience, and leadership transformation backed by original research from his Executive Fire Officer (EFO) capstone on vulnerability.

Hear how vulnerability builds trust, boosts team performance, and fosters psychological safety in high-stress environments. From navigating emotional trauma to leading authentically in the firehouse and beyond, this conversation is a masterclass in human-centred leadership.

Subscribe for more authentic conversations that challenge outdated leadership norms and elevate how we care for ourselves and those we lead. Share this episode with a leader who needs to hear that strength doesn’t mean silence—it means showing up as you are.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:59 Meet Deputy Chief Scott Booth

01:10 Scott's Journey in the Fire Service

01:53 Family and Personal Life

03:48 The Importance of Vulnerability

13:37 Defining Vulnerability

19:33 Vulnerability in Leadership

23:58 Challenges and Misconceptions

32:03 Micromanagement vs. Trust

33:55 The Importance of Training Your Replacement

34:42 Building Confidence and Letting Others Shine

36:01 Understanding and Overcoming Cultural Barriers

37:40 The Benefits of Vulnerability in Leadership

38:24 Creating Meaningful Relationships for Mental Health

46:56 Shared Struggles and Team Cohesion

50:39 Outdated Leadership Norms and the Need for Change

56:31 The Future of the Fire Service and Diversity

59:12 Challenges for Different Leadership Levels

01:03:18 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Contact Scott Booth

sbooth@gigharborfire.org

Arjuna George - Fire Chief (ret)

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Meet the Connector and Curator: Alec Wons: Public Safety Perspectives and Stories. Welcome to Season 3 of Beneath the Helmet! In this episode, Retired Fire Chief Arjuna George is joined by Alec Wons, the podcast host of the Chief Exchange, a four-time author, and a fire service advocate. Alec shares insights from his career, including his work with Ready Rebound—a program to treat injured first responders like professional athletes. Discover Alec's journey from a college soccer player and exercise physiology major to a mental health advocate and writer. Learn about the importance of preparation, consistency, and lifelong learning. Alec also discusses his podcast, book-writing journey, and the valuable lessons he's gathered from top public safety leaders. Don't miss this inspiring conversation focused on unlocking your full potential and finding what sets your soul on fire.00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview01:10 Alec Wons' Background and Journey02:26 The Birth of Chief Exchange Podcast03:14 Alec's Writing Journey04:51 Personal Growth and Self-Discovery06:23 Consistency and Discipline in Life07:37 Insights from Public Safety and Sports13:14 Healthy Habits and Meal Planning15:13 The Impact of the Chief Exchange Podcast20:32 Lessons Learned from Public Safety Leaders23:12 Challenges in Public Safety Careers24:45 Book Recommendations for Lifelong Learning26:48 New Book: Resilience Beyond Duty31:06 Life Lessons and Personal Reflections36:27 Ready Rebound: Expedited Healthcare for First Responders40:48 Connecting and Learning from Others42:31 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsConnect with Alecwonsalec@gmail.comwww.conqueryourself.coArjuna George - Fire Chief (ret)🚨Stay Connected on Social🚨Facebook https://www.facebook.com/beneaththehelmetshow/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/beneaththehelmetshow/TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@beneaththehelmet?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcLinkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunageorge/Twitter https://twitter.com/AJGeorgefireYoutube https://www.youtube.com/@beneaththehelmetshowYoutube https://www.youtube.com/@beneaththehelmetshorts 📨Linkedin Podcast Newsletter https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7026972684089528321📝Join the BTH Newsletter at https://colossal-trailblazer-6113.ck.page/c0e1b81fbe📺Watch or Listen to all the episodes at www.beneaththehelmet.ca📩 Email Host: arjuna@silverarrowco.com

Firefighters' Health & Wellness: Nutrition Tips with Megan Lautz - Applesauce to Protein Bars: A Guide For First Responder Nutrition on Beneath the Helmet S3Ep77Welcome back to Season 3 of 'Beneath the Helmet'! In this episode, host Retired Fire Chief Arjuna George dives into the essential topic of firefighter health and wellness with Megan Lautz, the owner of Rescue RD and a renowned dietitian for Fairfax County Fire and Police. Megan discusses the intricacies of first-responder nutrition, shares her journey into the fire service, and offers practical advice on maintaining a balanced diet under high-stress conditions. Learn about the importance of protein and hydration, the benefits of creatine, and the misconceptions surrounding various diet trends. Whether you’re a firefighter, police officer, or anyone interested in wellness, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you unlock your full potential and thrive in your demanding career.00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:57 Meet Megan Lautz: Dietitian for First Responders02:24 Understanding the Firefighter's Lifestyle04:29 A Day in the Life of a Dietitian05:43 Diving into Nutrition: Caffeine and Hydration08:05 The Role of Carbs and Protein in Performance18:19 Tracking Nutrition and Hydration23:21 Electrolytes and Rehydration Solutions26:42 Electrolytes: Balancing Act27:32 Creatine: Benefits and Myths32:06 Debunking Nutrition Myths36:30 Keto and Other Diets39:08 Mediterranean Diet for Firefighters40:38 Healthy Oils and Fats44:19 Golden Nutrition Tips for First Responders49:21 Conclusion and Resources#firstresponderwellness #firstrespondernutrition #firefighternutrition Articles referenced in the episode:Fueling the Firefighter and Tactical Athlete with Creatine: A Narrative Review of a Key Nutrient for Public Safety Click https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39408252/Welcome to Feeding America’s Bravest: Survival Mediterranean Style! Click https://hsph.harvard.edu/research/kales-lab/feeding-americas-bravest/Connect with Megan Lautz of RescueRD LLC / Fairfax County Fire and PoliceEmail: megan@rescuerd.comWeb: www.rescuerd.comArjuna George - Fire Chief (ret)🚨Stay Connected on Social🚨Facebook https://www.facebook.com/beneaththehelmetshow/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/beneaththehelmetshow/TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@beneaththehelmet?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pcLinkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/arjunageorge/Twitter https://twitter.com/AJGeorgefireYoutube https://www.youtube.com/@beneaththehelmetshowYoutube https://www.youtube.com/@beneaththehelmetshorts 📨Linkedin Podcast Newsletter https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=7026972684089528321📝Join the BTH Newsletter at https://colossal-trailblazer-6113.ck.page/c0e1b81fbe📺Watch or Listen to all the episodes at www.beneaththehelmet.ca📩 Email Host: arjuna@silverarrowco.com

The Tactical Athlete: Achieving Health and Wellness as a Firefighter

In this episode of Beneath the Helmet, host Retired Fire Chief Arjuna George welcomes Battalion Chief Ryan Provencher of Bellingham Fire Rescue and founder of Firefighter Peak Performance. They delve into the crucial aspects of firefighter fitness and wellness, discussing the concept of firefighters as tactical athletes. Ryan shares his journey into firefighting, inspired by his father-in-law's law enforcement, and how he integrated his passion for fitness with his career. The conversation highlights the importance of adopting a performance mindset, maintaining a balanced lifestyle, and undergoing specialized tactical training. The episode also includes practical advice for firefighters to start their journey towards peak performance, emphasizing the necessity of building a comprehensive fitness and wellness program and leveraging resources like interval training and functional fitness. Join us to learn about the challenges and strategies involved in achieving optimum health and performance for firefighters.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:58 Ryan's Background and Passion for Fitness

02:56 Firefighters as Tactical Athletes

06:37 Challenges and Benefits of Fitness Programs

14:30 Peak Performance and Its Pillars

22:30 Conventional, Functional, and Tactical Fitness

27:46 Understanding Auto Regulation in Firefighter Training

28:56 The Importance of Functional Fitness in Firefighting

29:56 Approaches to Fitness Assessment

31:06 Personal Challenges and Overcoming Physical Limitations

34:05 Building a Comprehensive Fitness Toolbox

36:40 Starting Your Fitness Journey: Key Considerations

38:55 The NET Scoring System Challenge

41:41 Goals and Aspirations for 2025

43:59 Final Thoughts and Resources

Connect with Ryan Provencher

📩ryan@firefighterpeakperformance.com

🌐https://www.firefighterpeakperformance.com

Free Resources:

The Firefighter's Guide to Tactical Fitness: https://firefighterpeakperformance.mykajabi.com/Freebie-optin

Firefighter Workouts - Free Membership: https://firefighterpeakperformance.mykajabi.com/free-membership

Arjuna George - Fire Chief (ret)

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