Advertise on podcast: FIT TO FIGHT FIRE

Shane Bentley shares the story of a man whose entire identity was a firefighter, who put the job before his family and before God.  That path eventually led him into a season marked by shame, guilt, and uncertainty, but by the grace of God, his story doesn’t end there. Through adversity, humility, and the hard work of forgiving both himself and others, Shane found redemption in his relationship with Jesus. That transformation didn’t just change who he was personally; it reshaped how he leads, serves, and lives with purpose. Chapters 00:00 Divine Timing and Purpose 07:05 Identity Crisis in the Fire Service 13:08 The Long Road to Recovery 19:38 Finding Balance and Priorities 27:08 Surrendering to God and Forgiveness 35:03 Facing Accusations and Trials 41:12 Challenging Comfort Zones in the Fire Service 46:16 The Journey of Surrender and Redemption 51:30 The Importance of Community and Support 57:46 Faith-Based Transformation and Purpose For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more! Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level. Support the show

In this episode of the Fit to Fight Fire podcast, Jonathan Bundy, shares his journey through the fire service, the challenges of starting over in his career, and the profound impact of participating in the Crucible. Bundy discusses the importance of faith, resilience, and personal growth, emphasizing how the Crucible experience helped him reflect on his life and develop a stronger sense of self. He encourages others to embrace challenges and take the leap into personal development opportunities like the Crucible. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Bundy's Journey 02:48 The Courage to Start Over 06:00 Faith and Decision-Making in Career Moves 08:56 Overcoming Adversity and Personal Growth 12:03 The Impact of the Crucible Experience 15:00 Attraction to the Crucible 17:47 Resolve and Intent in Personal Development 21:52 Expectations vs. Reality at the Crucible 24:07 Experiencing the Workouts and Team Dynamics 29:52 Mental Challenges and Self-Reflection 35:49 Emotional Moments and Personal Insights 39:57 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Others Apply to The Crucible 3 by 01/15/26 11PM Mountain Time Apply here: https://www.fittofightfireusa.com/crucible For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more! Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level. Support the show

In this episode of the Fit to Fight Fire podcast, Brent Cooper shares his journey from a young boy dreaming of becoming a firefighter to a seasoned firefighter who has faced numerous personal and professional challenges. He discusses the impact of his family life, the importance of faith in shaping his identity, and the struggles he faced with his brother's drug addiction. Brent emphasizes the significance of vulnerability, accountability, and community support in overcoming adversity. He also shares the story of his son Knox, who faced serious health challenges, and how that experience deepened his faith. Brent's journey highlights the importance of resilience, personal growth, and the power of sharing one's faith in the fire service.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 05:47 Family Life and Early Influences 12:07 Identity in the Fire Service 18:04 The Journey of Smoke Diver Training 24:00 Finding Faith and Marriage 29:47 Transformation and Daily Disciplines 35:46 Encouragement for the Broken 37:10 Meeting People Where They Are 40:08 Sharing Faith in the Firehouse 44:58 Navigating Family Challenges 48:55 Trusting God Through Adversity 52:52 The Journey of Health and Fitness 59:59 Pursuing Purpose and Passion For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more! Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level. Support the show

In this episode of the Fit the Fight Fire podcast, Blake Stinnett shares the profound impact of faith, adversity, and personal growth. Blake shares his journey from the fire service to ministry, the challenges he faced when feeling called to leave a job he loved, and the life-altering accident that tested his faith. Through pain and recovery, Blake emphasizes the importance of community support, the power of prayer, and finding purpose in difficult times. The conversation highlights how adversity can lead to personal growth and the importance of leaning on faith during challenging seasons. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Faith and Testing 01:04 The Journey of Faith and Ministry 05:15 Crossroads: Leaving the Fire Service 10:05 The Struggle of Obedience 14:40 Identity and Mental Health 21:23 Finding Joy in Obedience 23:09 The Accident and Its Impact 31:20 The Accident and Immediate Aftermath 34:40 Emergency Response and Support 35:57 Hospitalization and Recovery Journey 39:34 Reflections on Faith and Gratitude 43:36 Facing Ongoing Challenges and Surgeries 49:42 Mental and Physical Resilience 56:31 Purpose in Pain and Encouragement for Others For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more! Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level. Support the show

Nate Sturm talks about a LODD that his fire department experienced that brought about the dark season of life that almost tore his family apart.  Nate shares how alcohol was the downfall and how his faith in Jesus Christ lifted him and his family from the darkness and into the light, giving purpose to the pain he endured.  I am inspired by Nate’s transparency and vulnerability, which are shown in our conversation Takeaways - Nate Sturm has 24 years of experience in the fire service. - He founded Buddy Breathers, a Christian-based outreach program for mental        health support. - A tragic incident in June 2022 led to severe anxiety and guilt for Nate. - Nate's family was deeply affected by his struggles with mental health and alcohol. - The turning point for Nate was when his daughter expressed her feelings about his absence. - Seeking professional help was crucial for Nate's recovery. - Nate emphasizes the importance of community and peer support in overcoming struggles. - Faith played a significant role in Nate's healing process. - Nate encourages open communication about mental health in the fire service. It's okay to not be okay, and reaching out for help is vital. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nate Sturm's Journey 02:53 Nate's Career and Family Background 05:45 The Tragic Incident: A Call for Help 08:09 The Aftermath: Guilt and Anxiety 10:21 Struggles with Mental Health and Substance Use 15:24 The Mask of Positivity: A Deceptive Facade 21:07 Impact on Family and Relationships 28:40 The Impact of Addiction on Family Dynamics 32:39 The Breaking Point: A Daughter's Heartfelt Words 35:38 Seeking Help: The Turning Point 40:00 Faith and Professional Help: A Dual Approach 46:11 Finding Purpose in Pain: The Journey of Healing 51:35 Encouragement for Those Struggling: A Call to Action For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more! Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level. Support the show

In this episode, I sat down with Marcos and Logan to discuss our vision for The Crucible and how it all came together. We discussed what The Crucible is and what it's not.  This conversation will give you a clear view of The Crucible's purpose and why it is so important to us. The application closes today at 11:59 PM Mountain Time. If you are wondering if you have what it takes to complete The Crucible, the only way to find out is to apply and try.  What is The Crucible?  We will do 12 in-gear workouts over 24 hours on May 31st, 2025, in Denver, Colorado.  We believe in building mental and physical resilience through fitness, hard work, and shared suffering.  Crucible: a severe test in which something is tested through an external and internal conflict, producing something new.  Apply here: https://www.fittofightfireusa.com/the-crucible For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more! Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level. Support the show

Brad shares how a grab made, made him challenge where he was putting his identity and how firefighters who follow Christ can lead their firehouse lives.  We talk about how identifying as a firefighter first can leave us feeling lost when our careers are over. For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more! Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level. Support the show

In episode 30, I talk with Joshua Dukes about several seasons of adversity that he weathered with his faith in the Lord. Joshua shares the challenges faced when his 19-month-old son Trucker Dukes was diagnosed with cancer and how Trucker inspired so many during his battle with cancer and continues to today after his passing.  We talk about how standing up for his beliefs led to his termination from the job he loved as a firefighter and how he continues to give all the pain he endured throughout his life purpose. This is a story of courage, faith, and living with joy amid trials. Joshua's time with me inspired me, moved me to tears, and made me want to be a better man. Joshua's powerful story will inspire you. For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more! Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level. Support the show

This is an incredibly powerful episode where Josh talks about his crew's performance during an RIT/RIC activation for the late Nathan Flynn. Josh shares how years of mental and physical training came together for his crew so they could do everything possible to rescue one of their own. Josh's perspective, backed by data, sheds light on the staggering physical demands that firefighters face in their line of duty. His work underscores the undeniable strain on their minds and bodies, making it a must-listen for all.  Josh also has a Patreon page with incredible resources to help us prepare mentally and physically for our jobs. I joined yesterday and love the content. Forged And Unbroken Fire Patreon:  https://patreon.com/user?u=89578184&utm_medium=clipboard_copy&utm_source=copyLink&utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan&utm_content=join_link For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more! Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level. Support the show

Episode 28 Tragedy Tests Faith On December 14, Stratton had to say his final goodbyes to his daughter Kingsley.  Stratton and his three children were involved in a head-on car accident on his way to a fire department Christmas party, resulting in Stratton and his three children being sent to multiple hospitals. Stratton’s daughters were both in critical condition with Kingsley passing away.  Stratton shares how his faith has helped him endure the loss of a child and his ability to wake up every morning and be the husband and father God calls him to be. As Stratton and his two children continue to recover and he works through his injuries to get back to his fire department, the expenses are stacking up. I’m sharing the link here so that our community can help our brother and his family. https://www.gofundme.com/f/the-wests-medical-expense-fundraiser For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more! Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level. Support the show

Chris Snow - SELF DESTRUCTION INTO GOD'S CONSTRUCTION  Chris shares how his reckless life led him to prison, addiction, and affliction. We talk about living as a follower of Christ in the firehouse, giving our pain purpose, and locking arms with a small group of brothers you can lean on through transparency and authenticity. This episode shows us all that we are all broken; some of us just do a better job hiding it. For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more! Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level. Support the show

In Episode 26, I talk to Scott Vadkin about losing a child and how his faith gave him hope during life's darkest season. It is a story of heartbreak, devastation, and divine intervention.  For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more! Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level. Support the show

In Episode 25 Ric Jorge and I talk to Jeremy Sanders about a difficult season of life he endured and how he found strength in his weakness. Jeremy shares how his faith helped him continue to move forward and how the adversity he faced refined him into the man God needed him to be. For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more! Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level. Support the show

In Episode 24, I talk to Marcos Orozco about starting over at a new fire department, how fitness positions you for opportunities beyond the fireground, overcoming alcoholism, and how being a career backseat firefighter is a successful career.  For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more! Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level. Support the show

Ric Jorge and I talked to Marc about the pain he has carried over his career and how helping others has been the greatest way for him to give his pain purpose and share the power of Jesus in his life. He shares how we all need to find our tribe but must do the work required first.  For only $5 a month, the cost of a cup of coffee, you will receive a workout of the day, daily inspiration, and much more! Head over to www.patreon.com/fittofightfire to surround yourself with a community of like-minded firefighters on the same mission: to become the best version of themselves so that they can serve their family and community at the highest level. Support the show