Advertise on podcast: San Bernardino County Fire: PIO Podcast

The episode features a fascinating field segment with Ken Nelson at the Norton Air Force Base Museum, offering listeners a behind-the-scenes look at one of San Bernardino’s most unique historical landmarks. Ken shares his personal experience as a former C-141 aircraft commander and provides rich insight into the legacy of Norton Air Force Base, once a major hub for global military airlift operations. A powerful story unfolds around Leland Norton, the base’s namesake, whose heroic actions during World War II ultimately led to the base being named in his honor. Listeners will also hear the remarkable story of Norton’s long-lost footlocker—rediscovered decades later at a local swap meet and now preserved in the museum. The segment emphasizes the importance of preserving local history while encouraging the community to visit, donate artifacts, and explore the museum’s growing collection of military memorabilia and personal stories. The episode kicks off with important announcements and upcoming events across San Bernardino County Fire: Open House at Fire Station 4 on April 18 featuring tours, displays, and community engagementCancer Prevention and Wellness Symposium on May 9 at HeadquartersTake Your Child to Work Day on April 23Ongoing multi-company training and operational readiness updatesCaptain Millerick also highlights key points from the department’s latest State of Operations report, including: Strategic staffing goals and firefighter recruitment effortsWildfire risk reduction planning across tens of thousands of acresContinued rollout of new incident reporting systemsImprovements in apparatus readiness and deployment capabilitiesListeners are encouraged to stay informed and engaged with department communications and initiatives. Back in the studio, the crew sits down with Captain John Marini for an in-depth and entertaining conversation recorded at Station 228. John shares his unique journey into the fire service, from working in a family-owned music store in Alhambra to pursuing EMT training and ultimately becoming a firefighter. His stories highlight the life lessons learned through sales, customer interaction, and growing up around musicians—experiences that shaped his communication skills and leadership style. The discussion also dives into: His transition into the captain role and leadership responsibilitiesExperiences teaching at the department’s training towerHis long-standing involvement with the firefighters’ unionThe importance of mentorship, culture, and service in the fire professionListeners also hear heartfelt reflections on what inspired John to join the fire service, including childhood experiences watching firefighters respond to emergencies involving his family—moments that left a lasting impact. The episode explores how the fire service continues to evolve, from advancements in technology like drones and real-time data systems to the expanding role firefighters play in public safety. Despite these changes, the conversation reinforces a core theme: the mission remains the same—serving the public with professionalism, trust, and commitment. The crew reflects on how tradition and innovation coexist in the fire service, emphasizing that while tools may change, the responsibility and values of the job do not. This episode delivers a compelling mix of history, personal stories, and operational insight, all wrapped in the humor and camaraderie listeners expect from the San Bernardino County Fire Podcast. From museum discoveries to meaningful career reflections, it’s another installment that continues the podcast’s mission to educate, entertain, and inform. Links Mentioned in this Episode Alhambra Music Store & MuseumExploring Local History: Inside the Norton Air Force Base MuseumBreaking News, Events, and Department UpdatesFrom Music Store to Fire Captain: A Conversation with John MariniFirehouse Culture, Technology, and the Future of the JobClosing

Host Captain Shawn Millerick returns with a lively studio episode introducing San Bernardino County Fire’s new Media Specialist, Nancy Preciado, along with department updates, community outreach announcements, and plenty of humor from the podcast crew. The podcast welcomes new Media Specialist Nancy Preciado to the San Bernardino County Fire Public Information Office team. Joined by Host Captain Shawn Millerick, Ben, Rosie, and AI Ryan, Nancy shares her journey into public service and her passion for community storytelling. Nancy discusses her background as a first-generation Mexican-American and her path through Fresno State University, where she studied communications while balancing multiple jobs and internships. Her early career included sports media coverage with the Mountain West Conference and professional experience with Telemundo, where she quickly advanced into a marketing and promotions leadership role at just 24 years old. The conversation highlights Nancy’s transition into local government communications and ultimately County Fire, where she hopes to help strengthen connections between the department and the communities it serves. A major announcement in the episode focuses on upcoming Spanish-language social media platforms designed to better inform and engage the Latino community across San Bernardino County. Nancy explains the goal of creating accessible fire safety messaging, community updates, and storytelling in Spanish to ensure more residents feel included and informed. The team discusses how expanding communication efforts reflects the evolving needs of the county and supports stronger relationships with the public. The initiative aims to launch soon, marking an important step forward in inclusive communication and community outreach for County Fire. Listeners also get a behind-the-scenes look at the podcast studio, complete with historic fire service tools, surplus equipment discoveries, and the crew’s signature humor. The episode blends storytelling with lighthearted moments, from training-day lunch adventures to conversations about media, sports, and life inside the department. The episode includes several important updates and upcoming events: Cancer Prevention and Wellness Symposium scheduled for May 9Take Your Child to Work Day on April 23Spring multi-company training exercises underwayRecent captain promotions across the departmentFire district updates and upcoming historical media projectsListeners are also encouraged to complete podcast surveys to help shape future episodes and department communication efforts. The episode wraps up with breaking news from the studio, appearances by AI Ryan, and the traditional Joke of the Day — delivering laughs alongside information as the San Bernardino County Fire Podcast continues its mission to educate, entertain, and inform. Links Mentioned in this Episode Photo of Extricator Box & Ai RyanTower 20 VideoSonic Fire Tech VideoWelcoming Nancy Preciado: Expanding the Story of County FireReaching the Latino Community Through New Spanish-Language OutreachInside the Studio: Tools, Stories, and Firehouse HumorDepartment Updates and Community AnnouncementsClosing

Captain Shawn Millerick is back in the studio to inform, educate, and entertain with a field visit to Station 227, a surprise call with an engineer who moonlights as a serious artist, and audio from the department's pipe and drum band tour. ----- Probationary Firefighter Jessica Daniel – Heart of the Tower Award WinnerShawn visits Station 227 to catch up with probationary firefighter Jessica Daniel during her second set on the job. A Tower 20 graduate and recipient of the Heart of the Tower award, Jessica shares what early station life has looked like, how a busy and diverse jurisdiction has already exposed her to a range of call types, and how years of dirt bike racing shaped the mindset she carried into the tower. She also reflects on her background as an in-house EMT at Fullerton Fire and what it means to be assigned to a station with a familiar face from the tower as her captain.----- Engineer Matthew Nadalet – Gold Leaf, Pinstriping and Fire Service ArtAfter sending an unusually long late-night text full of ideas, Engineer Matthew Nadalet from Station 224 gets pulled into the conversation. Matthew walks through the art of gold leaf gilding, how it is applied to historic apparatus lettering, and the work he did restoring the Upland Engine One alongside retired Captain Bob Green and a group of retired county firefighters. He also discusses the memorial lockers he painted at Station 224 for fallen firefighters and a lifelong background in custom painting that started in childhood and has followed him throughout his career.----- Pipe and Drum Band – St. Patrick's Day Tour in Upland The episode includes audio from the department's pipe and drum band during their recent tour stop at the city of Upland's Irish festival. Shawn recaps a strong turnout, good weather, and a country band sharing the bill in an unexpected but entertaining combination.----- Department UpdatesQuick hits include the release of the Lonely Fire Station short documentary on Station 53 in Baker with a shout out to Real Ryan, a bathing suit drive through EMS 283 Julia Rocha benefiting Loma Linda Children's Hospital swim programs, the annual retiree luncheon on May 13th at Station 71, and a reminder that State of the Fire District is April 9th. ----- Closing The episode wraps with the traditional Joke of the Day and a roast from AI Ryan. ----- Links Mentioned in this Episode The Lonely Fire Station YouTube VideoRyan Spandrio Gold Leaf LockerJohn Rupert Gold Leaf LockerJessica Daniel Tower 20: Heart Award Photos

Host Captain Shawn Millerick is back with conversations with new Tower 20 graduate Firefighter Braeden Weekes about the transition from the academy to the firehouse and career reflections from Captain Jim Grigoli who is nearing retirement. ⸻ Firefighter Braeden Weekes: First Shift After Tower 20 Recently graduated firefighter Braeden Weekes joins the podcast from Station 222 in San Bernardino to talk about the first day on the job after completing Tower 20. Braeden shares what it was like transitioning from the academy environment to real world operations, responding to multiple calls within the first few hours of the shift. The morning included a structure fire, a CPR call, and a vegetation fire, giving immediate exposure to the pace and variety of calls at a busy station. The conversation also explores the adjustment from academy training to station life, including learning new routines, equipment checks, and the expectations set by the crew. Braeden reflects on the friendships built during the academy and the excitement of beginning a career in the fire service. Braeden also shares advice for future firefighter candidates, emphasizing the value of station visits, interview preparation, and spending time learning from firefighters already working in the profession. ⸻ Captain Jim Grigoli: Three Decades with County Fire Captain Jim Grigoli joins the podcast as retirement approaches after more than three decades in the fire service. The discussion reflects on the early days of County Fire, including the era of CSA 38 and the challenges faced by firefighters working in remote areas with limited staffing and resources. Jim explains how the department has evolved over the years with improved staffing, equipment, and expanded service to communities throughout San Bernardino County. Jim also discusses the importance of firefighter health and safety, highlighting the development of annual physicals and cancer screenings through the firefighter medical trust. The conversation emphasizes how labor leadership and collaboration helped create benefits designed to protect firefighters throughout their careers. As he prepares to retire, Jim offers perspective for new firefighters entering the profession, encouraging them to stay involved, take care of their health, and contribute to improving the department for the next generation. ⸻ Closing The episode concludes with a visit from AI Ryan, final updates from the studio and the traditional Joke of the Day. ⸻ Links Mentioned in this Episode Braeden Weekes' first appearance on the podcast⁠Station 222 GooseBraeden Weeks First Shift

Host Captain Shawn Millerick is joined by Ryan in studio and Battalion Chief Jeff Allen, Captain Brian Agrelius, Captain George Tom, and Jeff Alexy to inform, educate, and entertain with updates from across the district. Battalion Chief Jeff Allen – I-15 Corridor & Dumont Dunes Chief Allen discusses improvements along the I-15 corridor, including staffing increases at Station 52 and ongoing station remodel work. He also outlines the department’s application for a California OHV Education and Safety Grant to support seasonal staffing at Dumont Dunes and highlights trends in OHV activity. Captain Brian Agrelius – USAR & IMAS Deadlines Captain Agrelius explains the Regional Task Force deployment model, recent mobilizations, and the importance of uploading certifications into IMAS before the July 1, 2027 deadline to maintain USAR qualification status. Captain George Tom – Station 76 & Company Officer Series Captain Tom provides an update on Station 76 planning, upcoming apparatus deliveries, and the transition to the new State Fire Training Company Officer Series, including key completion deadlines. Jeff Alexy – Skyebrowse & VR Training Jeff Alexy shares how Skyebrowse technology is being used to create 3D models of incidents and integrate them into virtual reality environments for training, post-incident review, and future officer testing scenarios. Closing The episode concludes with final updates from the studio and the traditional Joke of the Day.

Host Captain Shawn Millerick is in the studio with in studio guest Firefighter/Paramedic Ryan Wonders. The team talks about the Drone Volt demo. The episode also includes a Black History Month segment led by Captain Kenny White, covering career milestones, mentorship, representation, and the department’s ongoing efforts to highlight cultures throughout the year. Drone Volt in the Field Shawn talks with Grant and William from Drone Volt during a department demo. They share company background, where Drone Volt is based, and where the team is operating globally. The conversation includes an overview of multiple aircraft and use cases, including camera payloads with optical zoom and infrared, heavy lift applications, and an eVTOL platform with longer duration and onboard capabilities. Captain Kenny White Shawn calls Captain Kenny White to discuss a recent large incident response, how conditions and expectations can shift quickly, and how previous experience at a location can help guide safer decision making. Kenny also reflects on joining the department in 2005, progressing through the ranks with the support of mentors and peers, and shares perspective during Black History Month on learning that the promotion was a department milestone, the importance of mentorship and representation, and how cultural highlights through the Diversity Committee and social media aim to build connection and encourage future firefighters. AI Ryan, QR Ryan, Real Ryan and the Joke of the Day QR Ryan, AI Ryan, and an appearance by Real Ryan close out the show with the Joke of the Day and a rabbit trail about smoked tri-tip and pasta. Links Mentioned in this Episode Handwritten note from Ryan to Shawn and Ben

Host Captain Shawn Millerick is back in the studio with Bobby, Ben, Rosalie and a surprise cameo from Captain Eric Sherwin to inform, educate, and entertain while somehow keeping Bobby from hunting ducks long enough to hit record. Expect station banter, department wins, a deep dive into prevention, and a field segment that puts you inside a massive commercial drill. Studio Kickoff Duck Hunting Dad Energy and Big Wins for the District The episode opens with pure chaos as Bobby nearly scares off dinner before the crew settles in to celebrate a major milestone. The department’s communications and outreach efforts are paying off in a big way. Ben breaks down the numbers with impressions and engagement climbing fast and the team talks about how that growth translates to real impact. Black History Month Why It Matters In a This Day in History style segment the crew recognizes Black History Month where it came from why it exists and how the show will spotlight more history and voices throughout February. Featured Interview Deputy Fire Marshal Tom Strong Community Safety Side of the House Shawn sits down with Deputy Fire Marshal Tom Strong to pull back the curtain on the Fire Marshal’s Office. They talk about what the office does, how big the operation really is, and why community safety touches more of the county than most people realize. Tom shares his 35 year career journey including time with the Sheriff’s Department and search and rescue his early days as a paid call firefighter and what the bark beetle program looked like when it ramped up in the mountains. Tech Corner GIS ESRI AI and the Future of Inspections Tom and Shawn get into modernization efforts including digital surveys GIS mapping and how AI may support plan checks and inspections. The conversation gets especially futuristic when they talk about smart glasses that can identify violations as you walk a building plus AI assisted drone and satellite imagery that could change everything from weed abatement to damage assessment. Security Breadcrumbs and County Vehicle Reality Checks The crew also covers what keeps headquarters secure including cameras armed security and the arson unit plus a practical reminder that county vehicles track more than people think. Speeding over certain thresholds can trigger notifications up the chain. Special Events Fireworks Interdictions Raves and Behind the Scenes Planning Tom shares some of his favorite operations including illegal fireworks interdictions special events and the surprising truth about rave crowds. Tom and Bobby talk about the massive amount of pre planning that goes into festivals and concerts including temporary mini cities mapped for EMS response. In the Field Warehouse Drill at a Million Plus Square Foot Facility The episode shifts to an on scene interview during a large commercial occupancy drill inside a massive warehouse. Battalion Chiefs Eric Spies and Steve Tracy explain what the drill is testing what is being learned and how this kind of training improves policy tactics and equipment before more familiar banter returns including the eternal question is lunch provided.  Thank you to Erin Bearden of MGA Entertainment for hosting our training at their warehouse and showing us around! Joke of the Day Trail Mix Violence To close it out Shawn attempts a nut themed joke and Ryan delivers an absolutely ruthless roast that may be the strongest command decision making heard all episode. As always stay safe take care of each other and thanks for listening 🎙️ Links Mentioned in this Episode Office of the Fire Marshal Special Events Video

Host Captain Shawn Millerick is back in the studio (and out in the field) to inform, educate, and entertain with Episode 24 of the PIO Podcast—alongside Bobby and Kyle for another round of station talk, real-world interviews, and classic dad-joke chaos. Studio Updates: Mercury Warnings, Promotions, and a “Secret” Deployment Drill The crew kicks things off with a strange sight at the Bloomington post office—an official warning to not mail mercury—and the inevitable rabbit hole that follows. From there, Shawn shares department updates including the latest on testing and interviews, solid participation in the captain’s exam process, and a first-of-its-kind surprise drill simulating a California Regional Task Force 6 deployment. Tower 20 gets a shoutout too, with training content getting love from California State training. MLK Day Reflections & Memphis History In a thoughtful segment, the guys reflect on Martin Luther King Jr. Day with two standout “did you know?” moments—plus a powerful discussion about visiting the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis and how immersive history can change perspective. In the Field: Captain Justin Weber on Culture, Retention, and Finding Your Place Shawn catches up with Captain Justin Weber (newly assigned and newly promoted) for a wide-ranging conversation that starts with hilarious rumors—passport theft, last names, and car-washing allegations—and turns into an honest story about upbringing, identity, and why he’s all-in on County Fire. Weber breaks down why retention matters, what makes the department unique, and how treating people like humans (even on probation) is a core part of the culture worth protecting. Aviation Spotlight: Alpine Rescue Training from the Top of the Tower Next, Shawn heads to the top of the Richard Sewell training tower with Aviation’s Mike Demoff, who explains the growing, more formalized rescue training program designed to keep crews safe in alpine and mountain environments. Mike shares how the program evolved after a tragic incident, why policy + training matters, and how other agencies are now taking notice and asking to learn from the model. “This Day in History” & Joke of the Day The episode wraps with a lighter touch: Guy Fieri’s birthday gets a “firehouse TV” shoutout, followed by some truly committed dad/son acting and a groaner of a joke about trees… being shady. As always: stay safe, take care of each other, and thanks for listening. 🎙️ Links Mentioned in this Episode⁠MLK Speech Kept by Body Guard for Decades News Story⁠⁠C⁠⁠lip from Bobby's Motown Documentary Highlighting the Motown Recording of "I Have a Dream" Speech⁠ ⁠Aviation Technical Team Training Video featuring Original Composed Music by Shawn Millerick⁠

We’re back with Episode 15 of the San Bernardino County Fire PIO Podcast! Host Captain Shawn Millerick and the team continue the mission to inform, educate, and entertain.  Division 2’s Living History Batallion Chief Mike McClintock drops by with a treasure trove of vintage photos dating back to the late 1800s—including relics from when the city’s fire department began in 1878. Learn how crews are digitizing and preserving the department’s archives for use in new station foyers, blending old-school pride with modern design. Hear how the new Station 227 project and a new ladder truck for Station 221 are bringing fresh energy to Division 2. HR at the Heart of the Fire Service Crystal Perez, HR Business Partner, joins the show to break down how the county is reimagining human resources—from disciplinary myths to genuine partnership. Discover how HR now supports succession planning, recruitment, and leadership growth, not just compliance. Get the inside scoop on the County Wellness Program, complete with on-site massages, healthy lunches, and a focus on whole-employee well-being. Crystal also shares her leadership paper, “The Kitchen Table as a Command Post,” and explains how she’s learning the unique 24-hour firehouse culture firsthand. Desert Operations: Fire & Rescue at Dumont Dunes Battalion Chief Steve Tracy calls in to discuss County Fire’s presence at Dumont Dunes, where tens of thousands of off-road enthusiasts gather each year. Hear how crews manage medical calls, dust storms, and 50,000 people in the middle of the Mojave. From burn injuries to air rescues, discover how County Fire keeps order in a scene that one guest calls “Mad Max meets Burning Man.” Chief Tracy also shares lessons learned about logistics, safety, and training opportunities for younger paramedics. Division 2’s new truck 221 and upcoming Station 227 mark major growth for the district. County Fire celebrates digitization of historic archives, preserving more than a century of service history. HR introduces new wellness initiatives at the Fire Admin building—proving that self-care isn’t just for civilians. PIO’s Tech Corner explores how data collection and after-action reports help improve future dune deployments—covering staffing, logistics, and how to adapt fire response for a mobile desert city. Sean: “What do you call a sandstorm at the dunes? Nature’s way of exfoliating your engine.”Crystal: “And your HR file, if you forget to wear goggles!” 

We’re back with Episode 13 of the San Bernardino County Fire PIO Podcast! Host Captain Shawn Millerick and the team continue the mission to inform, educate, and entertain.  Episode Highlights Haunted Firehouses and Real Ghost Stories Bobby recalls filming at the Sharon Tate house. Rosie shares eerie stories from her family’s past. The team discusses ghost sightings at Station 9 and Fifth Street. Engineer Harley Hobbs describes hauntings at his home and travels. Fire Department Features SBCoFD members appear on Hearts of Heroes Season 7, Episode 9, “Courage in Caves.” The team unveils a new podcast studio wall with historical memorabilia. Tech Corner A look at the Thermite RS3 firefighting robot, capable of 2,500 GPM and remote operations in hazardous zones. Joke of the Day  “Why are haunted houses the worst for fire drills? Because the spirits refuse to evacuate.” Links Mentioned in the Episode: Mine Rescue ABC Hearts of Heroes episodeThis Day in History - The St. Louis Gateway Arch 60th Anniversary partyThermite Firefighting Robot video

Host Captain Shawn Millerick is back in the field and in the studio to inform, educate and entertain with Episode 23 of the PIO Podcast. Recruitment Roundtable with Captain Andrea BinleyShawn is joined by Andrea Binley for a deep dive into everything recruitment. Andrea breaks down current and upcoming hiring opportunities, including Firefighter/Paramedic, Firefighter/Paramedic Trainee (EMT), Nurse Educator, and Ambulance Operator positions. She walks listeners through application windows, key testing and interview dates, recruitment seminars across the county, and the return of hosted CTC written exams. The conversation also covers the new candidate assessment process designed to ensure recruits are physically ready for Tower 21, set to start this September. Life Around Headquarters: Stories, Laughs, and Mountain LionsBetween meetings and busy hallways, the crew keeps things light with stories from around the district—including an early-morning generator refill under the watchful (imagined) eyes of a mountain lion. Rosie returns to the mic, studio banter ensues, and listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at media interviews, makeup magic, and the everyday chaos that keeps things interesting. Station Spotlight: Captain Tim Smith at Station 226Shawn heads to the bay at Station 226 for a wide-ranging conversation with Captain Tim Smith. Tim reflects on his career with the county and city fire departments, staffing changes, future apparatus updates, and his unique background that includes 17 years as a reserve sheriff’s deputy. He also shares insights on aviation, retirement, and advice for new cadets entering the fire service. Community Shoutouts & Department NewsThe episode wraps up with kudos to crews involved in a high-profile animal rescue, updates on media coverage, a nod to department history through archival photos, and a reminder of how busy the new year has already become. “This Day in History” & Joke of the DayThe crew closes things out with a wild historical moment—the Great Molasses Flood of 1919—followed by multilingual fun, questionable accents, and a classic dad joke to send everyone off smiling. As always: stay safe, take care of each other, and thanks for listening. 🎙️ Links Mentioned in this EpisodeEpisode 23 Show Notes videoThis Day in History - The Great Molasses Flood of 1919

Host Captain Shawn Millerick is back in the field and in the studio to inform, educate and entertain with Episode 22 of the PIO Podcast. Episode Highlights Training Division spotlight with Capt. Scott AbrahamShawn catches up with Scott for a behind-the-scenes look at what’s new in Training: digitizing task books and textbooks, tightening up certification tracking, coordinating state fire training, and building a more organized department training calendar. Scott also breaks down how task books standardize skills across positions and apparatus—and shares what’s coming next, from driver/operator needs (including water tender shortages) to a new Vector Solutions training rollout. Pipes & Drums: tradition, recruitment, and big eventsScott switches gears as the Pipe Major for the San Bernardino County Fire Pipes & Drums, sharing the band’s history (founded in 2012), how the department and union band support each other, and why they’re actively recruiting—especially new pipers. He explains what it takes to get started (practice chanter, short daily practice), what’s required to audition, how practices ramp up ahead of St. Patrick’s Day, and what it’s like honoring fallen firefighters at the massive Colorado memorial where hundreds of musicians come together. Tower 20 check-in with Recruit BraedenNext up, the crew pulls Braeden out of Tower 20 for a real look at academy life: week 12, rapid intervention crew training, and what it’s like coming into the fire service as a career change at 30. He talks about the steep learning curve without a prior fire academy, what he’s enjoyed most (forcible entry and wildland), and how his skateboarding background taught him resilience—pushing through frustration until skills “click.” He also shares practical advice for future applicants: be teachable, put in the work, and build real relationships in the firehouse. “This Day in History” with Ai RyanThe episode keeps things light with "This Day in History" fun facts about the Mona Lisa (and a few jokes),  Ai Ryan visits the studio after “the real Ryan” moves to Planning, and a musical closeout featuring the 935 band.

Host Captain Shawn Millerick is back in the studio and ready to inform, educate and entertain with Episode 21 of the PIO Podcast. Episode Highlights Transition to Planning and long term projects Ryan Beckers shares an update on his move from PIO duties into the Planning Section, discussing what the transition looks like, upcoming projects, and the importance of seeing the big picture beyond day to day operations. Spark of Love documentary and telling the bigger story The group reflects on the completed Spark of Love documentary, highlighting the amount of work that goes into the program and how it extends far beyond toy collection. The discussion emphasizes the importance of educating both the public and department members on how these programs truly function. PIO perspective during disasters Ryan explains the Public Information Officer role during major incidents, focusing on balancing accuracy, timing, and responsibility. He talks about staying ahead of information, resisting media pressure to exaggerate, and ensuring the department tells its story honestly and professionally. Flooding response and damage assessment operations The conversation shifts to recent flooding impacts in Wrightwood, Lytle Creek, and surrounding areas. Curtis Markloff walks through how damage assessment teams operate, what they look for, and how devastation can be both obvious and subtle, especially when water damage affects structures that are still standing. Understanding damage categories A detailed breakdown of damage classifications is shared, from superficial damage to destroyed structures. The team explains how inspectors determine percentages, how flooding assessments differ from fire incidents, and why local knowledge of terrain and structures matters. Damage Inspection Teams explained The episode offers a behind the scenes look at damage inspection teams, training through Cal Fire, data collection, quality control, and the massive effort involved in scrubbing reports, verifying addresses, and matching photos to properties. Community interaction and public service Curtis Markloff talks about interfacing directly with residents during inspections, entering homes when permitted, answering questions, and connecting people with available resources. The public relations aspect of being boots on the ground during recovery is highlighted. Station support and teamwork Shout outs go to crews at Station 14 and Station 10 for their support and hospitality during operations, reinforcing how teamwork across stations makes large scale responses possible. Rose Parade float duties The episode takes a fun turn as Curtis Markloff shares his unique old man hobby of driving a Rose Parade float. He describes the logistics, overnight operations, limited visibility, teamwork between drivers and spotters, and what it is like being part of one of the worlds most iconic events. Wrapping up with laughs and reflections The show closes with more firehouse humor, reflections on teamwork, and appreciation for the people who keep things moving, whether in emergency response, public information, or behind the scenes. Links Mentioned in the Episode: Spark of Love Documentary

Host Captain Shawn Millerick is back with Episode 20, this time recording from Fire Station 26 in the mountains near Crestline and Twin Peaks, with firefighter Ryan Lopez and a special call in from Jason “J Mac” McLaughlin to talk about the Spark of Love Toy Drive. Episode Highlights Mountain station talk at Station 26 Shawn and Ryan kick things off on a Sunday afternoon at Station 26, mixing humor and real talk about life in the mountains, the station culture, and what makes County Fire unique whether you are in the city or working the hill. Ryan Lopez from AMR to County Fire Ryan shares his path from ten years at AMR, including five years as an EMT and years as a medic, to earning his medic license internship at Station 26 and eventually getting picked up by the department. He walks through probation, mentors, and what it meant to department shop until he found the right fit. Culture probation and why people stay The conversation digs into probation experiences, comparing different departments and what makes a firefighter become a lifer. Ryan talks about how the people around you shape your growth, and why being surrounded by strong crews makes all the difference. Tactical Games and competitive shooting Ryan gives a deep dive into the Tactical Games, an intense CrossFit style athletic competition combined with shooting fundamentals. He explains the community, the grind, traveling across the United States, and why it is the hardest and most addictive competition he has ever done. What is different about fighting fire in the mountains Shawn and Ryan break down the realities of mountain operations, long hose stretches, steep terrain, access challenges, multi story homes built into hillsides, exposures, and how fast tactics change when you are working rugged ground. Shawn also highlights Ryan GoPro POV footage that captures what these incidents really look like. Advice for private ambulance medics looking to level up Ryan offers honest perspective for anyone working private ambulance who wants the next challenge. Do not get stuck at a low stakes table, seek stimulus, surround yourself with people who sharpen you, and be ready to commit when it is time because this job is a lifetime of learning. Spark of Love update with Jason “J Mac” McLaughlin J Mac calls in with a full Spark of Love update, how ABC7 supports departments with materials and promotion, how local fundraising and toy collection works, and how distribution happens across the county. He shares recent events like Film with the Firemen, kids, dinner, a movie, meeting Santa at a fire station, and a community toy giveaway partnered with Amazon complete with activities, food, Santa, and gifts for kids. Countywide coordinators and the work behind the scenes J Mac shouts out the division coordinators and teams who keep the program moving year round, emphasizing how much coordination, sorting, pickups, and shopping goes into making Spark of Love happen. Reminder, toys are collected at fire stations up through Christmas Day. Christmas fun and This Day in History The episode wraps with a holiday joke, then This Day in History featuring notable Christmas birthdays, Rod Serling from Twilight Zone, Jimmy Buffett, and Annie Lennox, plus a quick holiday story from Shawn about visiting the historic Tam O Shanter pub and closing out with the sounds of carolers. As always, the episode blends firehouse humor, real world insight, and community spirit, reminding everyone to take care of each other, stay safe, and keep the holidays merry and bright. Links Mentioned in the Episode: ⁠The Tam O’Shanter PubTactical GamesSpark of Love Documentary

Host Captain Shawn Millerick is back in the studio with OES PIO Brianna Viteri and the team for Episode 19 of the PIO Podcast. Episode Highlights Inside the Office of Emergency Services (OES)Shawn sits down with Brianna and the OES communications team to break down what the Office of Emergency Services actually does. From coordinating county departments to supporting cities, towns, and partner agencies, the conversation pulls back the curtain on the behind the scenes work that keeps communities informed and prepared during emergencies. FEMA Drills, Training, and Regional CoordinationThe crew recaps a large scale FEMA style drill involving cities, schools, and the National Weather Service. Brianna explains how OES plans, facilitates, and strengthens interagency communication so everyone knows their role before a real emergency hits. From Media Specialist to PIO LifeBrianna shares her path into emergency management starting as a media specialist with no background in the field, then quickly stepping into the Public Information Officer role during real incidents. The group talks first emergencies, learning acronyms, building confidence, and why relationships are everything in emergency communications. Preparedness First, CERT, Alerts, and Community OutreachThe episode highlights OES’s push for preparedness including CERT and Teen CERT training, Ready Block Parties, and proactive outreach. Brianna explains the importance of preparing communities before disaster strikes and how trust is built long before an incident. Emergency Alerts, Apps, and Public ToolsListeners get a walkthrough of the county’s Telephone Emergency Notification System and the newly launched county preparedness app. The team explains how alerts work, why residents should sign up, and why deleting the old app and downloading the new one matters. Innovation, AI, and Modern PIO WorkThe conversation shifts to creative tools including the use of AI voice cloning for cleaner messaging and content production. The crew has fun with an AI generated Sean and Ryan exchange while discussing where technology helps and where human judgment still matters most. Team Growth and What’s AheadWith the department expanding and a full communications team coming together, Brianna looks ahead to 2026, sharing excitement about growth, innovation, and deeper community engagement including the return of the seismic simulator and hands on preparedness tools. This Day in HistoryThe episode wraps with a day in history segment jumping back to December 18, 1620, when the Mayflower anchored in Plymouth Harbor. The crew talks history, tiny ships, pirate accents, and why the story still fascinates centuries later. As always, the conversation blends education, insight, and humor, reminding listeners that preparedness, relationships, and a little creativity go a long way. Links Mentioned in the Episode: ⁠This Day in History⁠Ready SB County Info & App