Episodes

  • Politics, Labor Relations & the Fire Department
    Nov 4 2024

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    We talk politics and how it relates to labor relations and ultimately doing what is best for the fire department.

    This episode features Nick Brunacini, and John Vance.

    We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://youtu.be/-Wb5lA6f1uw

    Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/Buckslip

    Shop B Shifter here: https://bshifter.myshopify.com

    All of our links here: https://linktr.ee/BShifter

    Please subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!

    This episode was recorded October 17, 2024 at the Alan V. Brunacini Command Training Center in Phoenix, AZ.

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    41 mins
  • The Silverbacks on Supervision
    Oct 28 2024

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    This episode features Nick Brunacini, Terry Garrison, and John Vance.

    We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://youtu.be/-Wb5lA6f1uw

    Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/Buckslip

    Shop B Shifter here: https://bshifter.myshopify.com

    All of our links here: https://linktr.ee/BShifter

    Please subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!

    This episode was recorded October 18, 2024 at the Alan V. Brunacini Command Training Center in Phoenix, AZ.

    Dive into the intricacies of leadership within fire departments, where the philosophy of the fire chief can dramatically influence morale and effectiveness. Through personal accounts and insights, we highlight the importance of supportive leadership and explore innovative programs like Silverback and Cool Command designed to empower leaders in firefighting and beyond. From controversial practices to the essential need for calm leadership in crisis situations, this episode offers a compelling look at the challenges and solutions in fire service leadership today.

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    53 mins
  • Good News Reporting
    Oct 21 2024

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    This episode features Nick Brunacini, Josh Blum and John Vance.

    We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0

    Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/Buckslip

    Shop B Shifter here: https://bshifter.myshopify.com

    All of our links here: https://linktr.ee/BShifter

    Please subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!

    This episode was recorded at the AVB CTC in Phoenix, AZ on October 18, 2024.

    We tackle a question from a listener: Should good news be announced or should silence be maintained until prompted during fire incidents? You'll hear firsthand the importance of sharing completed objectives and how this can critically impact emergency response.

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    39 mins
  • Best of B Shifter: The "Other" Radio Reports
    Oct 14 2024

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    This episode aired originally on November 28, 2021.

    What is a CAN report, status change or priority traffic? What is the anatomy of a good roof report? We answer those questions plus tackle a Timeless Tactical Truth on this B Shifter!

    Nick Brunacini is the leader of B Shifter and Blue Card. He joined the Phoenix Fire Department (PFD) in 1980. He served seven years as a firefighter on different engine companies before promoting to captain and working nine years on a ladder company. Nick served as a battalion chief for five years, and in 2001, he was promoted to shift commander. He then spent the next five years developing and teaching the Blue Card curriculum at the PFD’s Command Training Center. His last assignment with the PFD was south shift commander; he retired from the department in 2009. Nick is the author of “B-Shifter—A Firefighter’s Memoir.” He also co-wrote “Command Safety.”

    Contact Nick Brunacini at nick@bshifter.com

    Josh Blum, Blue Card Program Manager and has been in the fire service since 1993. He began his service as a volunteer firefighter before accepting a full-time career position. Josh served as the deputy chief of operations for the Loveland Symmes (Ohio) Fire Department, where he measurably increased the department’s training and operational effectiveness. Josh retired from Loveland Symmes in 2020 and now works for Blue Card as the program manager in all aspects of curriculum development and program delivery. Josh continues to work directly with departments throughout Southern Ohio assisting with training and fire department operations. Josh has developed and managed many fire service training programs throughout his career. He is a graduate of the Ohio Fire Executive Program

    Contact Josh Blum at josh@bshifter.com

    This episode is produced and edited by John Vance at johnvance@bshifter.com

    Production Assistant, Katie Brunacini

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    38 mins
  • Live from the 2024 Blue Card Hazard Zone Conference
    Oct 7 2024

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    Thanks to our panel: Chris Stewart, Erik Phillips, Jeffery King, Shane Ray, Nick Brunicini, and Dan Madrzykowski.

    We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0

    Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/Buckslip

    Shop B Shifter here: https://bshifter.myshopify.com

    All of our links here: https://linktr.ee/BShifter

    Please subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!

    This episode was recorded at the Sharonville Convention Center on October 4, 2024.

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    46 mins
  • Support Officers
    Sep 30 2024

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    This episode features Nick Brunacini, Chris Stewart and John Vance.

    We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0

    Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/Buckslip

    Shop B Shifter here: https://bshifter.myshopify.com

    Register for the 2024 Hazard Zone Conference here: http://hazardzonebc.com/

    All of our links here: https://linktr.ee/BShifter

    Please subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!

    This episode was recorded at the AVB CTC in Phoenix, AZ on September 12, 2024, although this was supposed to be an "evergreen" episode!

    How can the presence of support officers transform the efficiency and safety of fire response operations? Join us as we make a compelling case for the critical 24/7 role these officers play. From maintaining accountability and offering crucial information to enhancing overall incident management, discover why support officers are indispensable on the fire ground. We'll unpack their multifaceted responsibilities that allow incident commanders to focus on strategic and tactical decisions, ultimately leading to well-coordinated and effective emergency responses.


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    48 mins
  • Blue Card ARFF Module
    Sep 23 2024

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    Whether you’re department may respond to aircraft emergencies, have a small municipal airport or a bustling international hub, this resource offers a structured, certifiable incident command system designed to enhance coordination and efficiency.

    From the nuances of pre-incident information to the pivotal role of trained Incident Commanders (ICs), we cover the essentials of managing aircraft emergencies. Discover how standardized initial radio reports, strategic declarations, and effective communication with pilots and incoming resources can save lives and property. On this episode we talk about the tactical and strategic approaches necessary for handling these high-stakes situations, emphasizing risk management and the importance of prioritizing savable lives. This is a must-listen for anyone that may be involved in aircraft emergencies, offering invaluable insights that could make all the difference during critical incidents.

    This episode features Jeffery King, Chris Stewart and John Vance.

    We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0

    Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/Buckslip

    Shop B Shifter here: https://bshifter.myshopify.com

    Register for the 2024 Hazard Zone Conference here: http://hazardzonebc.com/

    All of our links here: https://linktr.ee/BShifter

    Please subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!

    This episode was recorded at the AVB CTC in Phoenix, AZ on September 10, 2024

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    33 mins
  • Silverback Leadership Function 1
    Sep 16 2024

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    This episode features Nick Brunacini, Josh Blum, Terry Garrison, and John Vance.

    We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0

    Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/Buckslip

    Shop B Shifter here: https://bshifter.myshopify.com

    Register for the 2024 Hazard Zone Conference here: http://hazardzonebc.com/

    All of our links here: https://linktr.ee/BShifter

    Please subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!

    This episode was recorded September 9, 2024 in Phoenix, Arizona

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    1 hr and 7 mins