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Today I had the pleasure of choppin’ it up with FDNY FF FRANK OCELLO. FF OCELLO got on the FDNY in 1999 and was assigned to L173 in Howard Beach Queens. He was put on the rotation and sent to L24 in Manhattan. It is there when he was working the morning of September 11th. Upon arrival to the WTC, 24 truck checked in at the Marriott Hotel,  when suddenly the south tower collapsed. FF Ocello and 24 truck were caught in the collapse. His story is truly shocking, to hear what his experience was. In the months after 9/11 he was sent back to L173 where he would do a few more years before transferring up to the Bronx to L58. There he would stay until his retirement in 2021. Frank was kind enough to share his story, a story that needs to be told and retold, so we never forget what happened that terrible day and we keep the memory of all the brave men and women, civilians and first responders alike, alive.  Frank and I talked life and the fire service into retirement.  It was a great conversation from a brother fireman. Thank you once again FF OCELLO for sitting at THE KITCHEN TABLE PODCAST.  #fyp #fire #firefighter #fdny #firefighters #foryou #frankocello #ladder173 #ladder24 #ladder58 #queens #manhattan #bronx #september11 #september11th #wtc #collapse #firehouse #brotherhood #neverforget #podcast #thekitchentablepodcast #thekitchentable59  Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by hosts, guests, and contributors are their own and do not reflect those of any affiliated organizations, employers, departments, or agencies. This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not professional, legal, medical, financial, or other specialized advice. Guests are solely responsible for their statements. The podcast and its producers do not necessarily endorse guest opinions. Chapters: 00:00 intro 02:18 early life 05:40 L173 07:00 first fire  11:00 tough jobs in 173 14:45 rotation to 24 truck 20:27 9/11 33:00 healing 39:00 short videos of documentary  41:00 L58 49:50 scenario  52:40 engine work 57:05 expectations of a detail 59:01 retirement  1:03:50 work before FDNY 1:06:50 sandy and brotherhood 1:14:30 final advice 1:19:10 outro TALES FROM THE TILLER  TONY BONFIGLIO L34 https://instagram.com/tonybonfiglio34?rpxt=d2t2dW0wM29pMHVq

Today I had the pleasure of choppin it up with career Department of Defense DOD Federal Firefighter NICK PALUMBO. FF PALUMBO started his love and career of the fire service in 1999 as a young Fire Explorer in Englishtown NJ. In 2002 he graduated the Fire Academy and joined the East Freehold NJ Volunteer Fire Company. In 2006 he was hired per diem in Bordentown TWP Fire District 2. In 2008 he joined the Freehold Fire Department.  He was hired by the Department of Defense Fire Department in 2009 and started in Ft. Monmouth NJ. 2011 He transferred to Veteran Affairs FD in Alexandria Louisiana, after the closure of Ft. Monmouth. 2012 headed back northeast to work in Northport LI. 2015 transferred to Picatinny Arsenal in NJ. 2016 joined the Plainsboro Fire Company. 2020 transferred to Naval Weapon Station in Earle NJ.  FF PALUMBO has been doing private fire investigation since 2006. And started the Outside Vent Training and Consulting LLC in 2018.  In 2022 he started with JS Held LLC as A senior Fire investigator.  He started a podcast in 2024 called The Firehouse Sergeant’s Podcast which is also the title of his first book  FF PALUMBO retired in 2026 from the DOD fire fighting career. Thank you to Nick for spending some time with me at my Kitchen Table. Best of luck in retirement.  All links to Nick will be below. #fyp #foryou #fire #firefighter #firefighters #departmentofdefense #veteranaffairs #volley #nickpalumbo #outsidevent #firehouse #firestation #firecommunity #firecompany #volunteer #foryoupage #freehold #eastfreehold #firehousesergeants #newjersey #dod #brotherhood #careerfirefighter #fireinvestigation #fireinvestigator #author #podcast  Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by hosts, guests, and contributors are their own and do not reflect those of any affiliated organizations, employers, departments, or agencies. This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not professional, legal, medical, financial, or other specialized advice. Guests are solely responsible for their statements. The podcast and its producers do not necessarily endorse guest opinions. Chapters: 00:00 intro 02:00social media and podcasting  09:30 early life freehold nj  16:02 fire explorer  20:40 first fires 25:31 scenario 31:31 Bordentown  37:40 DOD fire service ft. Monmouth 44:00 confusion with dad’s paperwork  47:50 hand in elevator  57:00 complacency and drilling 1:06:00 fire investigation and squirrels  1:14:00 outside vent LLC  1:25:30 trauma and depression  1:33:20 firehouse sergeants  1:47:30 picture time 1:54:00 final words 1:55:00 outro Links:   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_outside_vent?stkn=c3ZvaG9vaTMxbDNm YouTube: https://youtube.com/@firehousesergeants?si=6apaUWm6SNp5hx-h Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1K94MKws7p/?mibextid=wwXIfr Red Helmet training: https://www.redhelmettraining.com/ Firehouse book club:  https://www.firefighterbookclub.com/ Firehouse Sergeants Amazon: https://a.co/d/0fHi7qfs

Today I had the ultimate pleasure to chop it up with FDNY Retired Lt.JOE TORRILLO. Lt. Torillo got on the job in 1981. And was assigned to E10 out of probie school.  But before that, he was born and raised in Park Slope Brooklyn, the same neighborhood I grew up in. And attended the same high school, Bishop Ford.  At 16 he worked for the City Park Service. Eventually doing short stints in Corrections and Transit Authority before becoming a firefighter in 1981.  He transferred to L123 in 1996 and was soon promoted to Lieutenant. He covered in the 15th Division, 37 Battalion and worked in companies such as 310/174 257/170 323 & 253 engines. After a major injury to his hand he was assigned to the FDNY office of Fire Safety Education and soon became the director of the program. He would go on to co design the FIRE ZONE, a state of the art fire learning center located near Rockefeller center in NYC. Fisher Price toy company modeled a Rescue Hero Action Figure in Lt. Torrillo’s likeness,  named BILLY BLAZES. On the day he was scheduled to present this toy to the public, The World Trade Center was struck by a terrorist attack.  He responded to The WTC and was subsequently caught in the first collapse. After he was dug out and placed on a rescue boat the 2nd tower collapsed and dove into the engine room to avoid the debris. He was taken to a hospital in NJ with severe injuries to his head, neck and shoulder. Lt. Torrillo eventually retired from the FDNY and has become a key note speaker, detailing his story and many others. He also volunteers at the WTC museum giving tours. Thank you Joe for sharing your story with me at The Kitchen Table.  #foryou #fire #firefighter #fyp #firefighters #fdny #brooklyn #brotherhood #firehouse #firedepartment #september11 #billyblazes #firezone #firesafety #firesafetyawareness #parkslope #giveback #keynotespeaker #joetorrillo #foryoupage #engine10 #ladder10 #fisherprice #rescueheroes  Chapters: 00:00 intro 02:00 fire story 04:30 fire safety ed unit 14:00 fire zone 20:30 tea award  21:37 fisher price rescue hero’s 25:00 billy blazes 28:30 9/11 1:03:00 Parkinson’s  1:07:50 heart issues 1:14:00 family of medical professionals  1:15:00 engine 220 son 1:20:00 scenario  1:23:30 tough fires 1:26:40 engine or truck 1:28:30 Manhattan Brooklyn difference  1:34:20 key note speaking 1:46:00 picture time 1:49:00 Guantanamo  1:54:40 outro Links:  Website  https://joetorrillo.com/about.htm Joe’s Facebook  https://www.facebook.com/share/1Mtr3ycZHL/?mibextid=wwXIfr WTC Memorial  https://share.google/pTRhGLNJtFWMEHiqv The Fire Zone https://www.fdnysmart.org/firezone/ Tunnel to Towers Foundation  https://t2t.org/ Gary Sinise Foundation https://garysinisefoundation.org/ Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by hosts, guests, and contributors are their own and do not reflect those of any affiliated organizations, employers, departments, or agencies. This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not professional, legal, medical, financial, or other specialized advice. Guests are solely responsible for their statements. The podcast and its producers do not necessarily endorse guest opinions.

Today’s guest on PART 2 of a 2 part episode is FDNY FF CHRIS EDWARDS E-81. Ret. FF Edward’s got on the FDNY in 1986 and was assigned to 46 Truck in the Bronx upon completion of probie school. He transferred to 42 Engine in 1990 and headed back to 81 Engine in 1995. Chris worked for many significant incidents while on the FDNY including the Washington Heights riots and FF line of duty deaths. He had 5 major knee surgeries and was fighting his way back to the job when 9/11 occurred. He responded to ground zero anyway and spent the next few weeks digging for his brothers. The FDNY eventually forced him to retire in May of 2002 due to major heart and other health issues directly related to 9/11. Chris also is a SAG actor and has appeared in many TV and Movie shows. In retirement Chris volunteers for The Tunnel To Towers foundation, The FDNY Dart Team and The Red Cross. Chris also has authored the book COMING THROUGH THE FLAMES, MY LIFE IN THE FDNY. Which can be found on Amazon, links below. He also recently appeared on the very popular Soft White Underbelly Podcast, where his episode has amassed almost 300,000 views.  His love and passion for the FDNY and brother firefighters is second to none, he wears his heart on his sleeve and it shows in every word he speaks. It was an honor to chop it with FF CHRIS EDWARDS. Thank you and good luck the rest of the way brother.  #fyp # FDNY #fire #firefighter #firefighters #foryou # chrisedwards #september11 #neverforget #9/11 #firedepartment #firehouse #firestation #bronx #tunneltotowers #comingthroughtheflames #foryourpage #podcast #thekitchentable #thekitchentable59 #engine81 #engine42 #ladder46 #brotherhood #giveback #interview Chapters: 00:00 intro 00:30 knee surgeries  15:40 9/11 29:00 getting to ground zero 34:00 hope 53:18 after 9/11 58:30 heart issues 1:05:00 coming through the flames 1:11:40 final thoughts and words 1:14:00 outro Links to Chris:  https://www.facebook.com/share/19ZaumM9m9/?mibextid=wwXIfr COMING THROUGH THE FLAMES Amazon: https://a.co/d/07ENRB6V Tunnel to Towers: https://t2t.org/ Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by hosts, guests, and contributors are their own and do not reflect those of any affiliated organizations, employers, departments, or agencies. This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not professional, legal, medical, financial, or other specialized advice. Guests are solely responsible for their statements. The podcast and its producers do not necessarily endorse guest opinions. While we aim for accuracy, we make no guarantees about the completeness or reliability of any content. Listeners should use their own judgment and seek qualified professional advice when needed.

Today’s guest on the first of this 2 part episode is FDNY FF CHRIS EDWARDS E-81. Ret. FF Edward’s got on the FDNY in 1986 and was assigned to 46 Truck in the Bronx upon completion of probie school. He transferred to 42 Engine in 1990 and headed back to 81 Engine in 1995. Chris worked for many significant incidents while on the FDNY including the Washington Heights riots and FF line of duty deaths. He had 5 major knee surgeries and was fighting his way back to the job when 9/11 occurred. He responded to ground zero anyway and spent the next few weeks digging for his brothers. The FDNY eventually forced him to retire in May of 2002 due to major heart and other health issues directly related to 9/11. Chris also is a SAG actor and has appeared in many TV and Movie shows. In retirement Chris volunteers for The Tunnel To Towers foundation, The FDNY Dart Team and The Red Cross. Chris also has authored the book COMING THROUGH THE FLAMES, MY LIFE IN THE FDNY. Which can be found on Amazon, links below. He also recently appeared on the very popular Soft White Underbelly Podcast, where his episode has amassed almost 300,000 views.  His love and passion for the FDNY and brother firefighters is second to none, he wears his heart on his sleeve and it shows in every word he speaks. It was an honor to chop it with FF CHRIS EDWARDS. Thank you and good luck the rest of the way brother.  #fyp # FDNY #fire #firefighter #firefighters #foryou # chrisedwards #september11 #neverforget #9/11 #firedepartment #firehouse #firestation #bronx #tunneltotowers #comingthroughtheflames #foryourpage #podcast #thekitchentable #thekitchentable59 #engine81 #engine42 #ladder46 #brotherhood #giveback #interview  Chapters: 00:00 intro 02:20 early life 09:50 becoming a father 21:00 FDNY test 26:50 46 truck 31:10 Mikey  32:20 42 engine 40:00 first fire  46:50 new segment “scenario” 53:20 garage fire  59:30 shooting ifo firehouse 1:08:00 the neighborhood 1:20:50 81 engine 1:32:20 acting 1:48:00 9/11 to be continued  1:48:30 outro Links to Chris: https://www.facebook.com/share/19ZaumM9m9/?mibextid=wwXIfr COMING THROUGH THE FLAMES Amazon: https://a.co/d/07ENRB6V Tunnel to Towers: https://t2t.org/ Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by hosts, guests, and contributors are their own and do not reflect those of any affiliated organizations, employers, departments, or agencies. This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not professional, legal, medical, financial, or other specialized advice. Guests are solely responsible for their statements. The podcast and its producers do not necessarily endorse guest opinions. While we aim for accuracy, we make no guarantees about the completeness or reliability of any content. Listeners should use their own judgment and seek qualified professional advice when needed.

Today I had the pleasure of chatting with 40 plus year, award winning photojournalist TODD MAISEL. Todd has captured some of the most important events in New York City and many other locations since his college days at NYU.  He has worked for and contributed to many newspapers including Courier Life, The Torch, Town and Village and The NY Daily News for over 18 years. Just to name a few.  He also served as a breaking news editor for AM NEW YORK. He also holds and has held many titles for the NYPPA. New York Press Photographer Association such as Vice President, Govnt relations chairman, and Editor. He is also the founder of the New York Media Consortium. Some of his awards NYPPA Good Guy Award. NYPPA Humanitarian Award, Picture of the year, and UFA Award for his work on 9/11. He has photographed many incidents including the Golden Venture in the Rockaways, Mafia crime scenes and thousands of fires in New York City.  But no incident was as big as the September 11th attacks on the WTC. Todd was down at ground zero documenting and assisting throughout the entire day and days to follow. He was on the ground for both collapses where he narrowly escaped the falling towers. Todd also has travel to IRAQ and documented the war in 2003.   Today Todd has authored the book TO HELL AND BACK, which his photos and words re live the events on 9/11, through his photos and words. IT IS TO BE NOTED THAT ALL OF THE PROCEEDS FROM THE BOOK GO TO THE TUNNEL TO TOWERS FOUNDATION.  Thank you Todd for always going above and beyond for the sake of your art and to document these events so the world Never Forgets.   All links to Todd and the book are below.  #podcast #photography #photojournalism #pictures #art #fdny #firefighter #nyc #nydailynews #amnewyork #interview #fyp #foryou #foryourpage #newspaper #editor #tohellandback #visualstorytelling #september11 #groundzero #nypd #portauthority #fires #goldenventure #camera  Chapters: 00:00 intro 00:30 early life 03:30 nyu and transformer fire 08:30 commitment to the art 10:50 the golden venture 13:50 early influences  15:40 mob hits  18:35 street smarts and FDNY friends 20:20 sunset park 5th alarm 22:00 Coney Island fire 24:35 9/11 43:35 to hell and back 50:30 final thoughts 54:00 outro Links:  https://www.toddmaiselvisualjour... https://www.instagram.com/todd.p... https://t2t.org/ https://a.co/d/0cSFr0Xm Disclaimer: Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by hosts, guests, and contributors are their own and do not reflect those of any affiliated organizations, employers, departments, or agencies. This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not professional, legal, medical, financial, or other specialized advice. Guests are solely responsible for their statements. The podcast and its producers do not necessarily endorse guest opinions. While we aim for accuracy, we make no guarantees about the completeness or reliability of any content. Listeners should use their own judgment and seek qualified professional advice when needed.

Today I had the great pleasure to chop it up with retired FDNY Firefighter JAMES HANLON. James got on the job in 1994 and did his entire career in Ladder 1 on Duane Street.  He retired in 2018 and moved to California to continue a career in Hollywood. You see, James is also an actor/director/producer and writer. And worked at the NY DAILY NEWS in the advertising department.  James has been acting in theatre before the FDNY. Then started landing roles in TV shows such as Hill Street Blues, Law and Order and Sex in the City, just to name a few.  All the while he was studying the directors and the job they did and saw a calling in that part of the entertainment industry.  He then got an idea to direct a documentary about a probationary FDNY firefighter and film his day to day on the job and in the firehouse. He filmed and directed this documentary with 2 French American filmmakers JULES & GEDEON NAUDET.  This documentary would inadvertently become the original 9/11 Documentary. They were the only ones to capture the first plane hitting the World Trade Center. They filmed from that moment and everything that followed.  Panic, Chaos, Collapse and Tragedy was all captured by their cameras.  The CBS 9/11 documentary would go on to win an Emmy and Peabody Award.   In retirement James has directed many TV shows including NCIS LA, Chicago Fire, Grey’s Anatomy and many more.  Most recently he has Authored THE LEGACY CHILD, about a fictional character whose father was a NYC FIREFIGHTER and perished on 9/11. James had an amazing career as both a fireman and in the entertainment business and I thank him for chopping it up with me at THE KITCHEN TABLE.   All links to James Hanlon, the books and the documentary are below. #fyp #fdny #fire #firefighter #firefighters #9/11 #september11 #documentary #cbs #cbs_broadcasting #jameshanlon #neverforget #brotherhood #fireman #foryou #podcast #ladder1 #chinatown #actor #director #julesnaudet #gedeonnaudet #emmyawards #firehouse #thelegacychild #legacychild #legacy #thekitchentable #thekitchentable59 Chapters: 00:00 intro 05:30 early life 10:50 getting the FDNY 18:40 Proby school trouble  22:30 ladder 1 27:00 Drennan 34:00 2nd family 37:30 fatal fires and change 43:00 damage to your body 51:00 Chinatown buildings  1:01:17 gene siskel into fire story 1:07:10 acting and firefighting 1:16:30 sex in the city 1:23:00 big audition box comes in  1:35:50 meat seeker 1:39:00 9/11 and the documentary  2:35:00 blowback from the film 2:43:30 the legacy child 2:58:30 final thoughts  3:00:30 outro Links: James Hanlon Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therea... THE LEGACY CHILD: https://officialjameshanlon.com/ 9/11 Documentary: https://a.co/d/06JUl6lO Tim Brown Book. THE GREATEST LOVE: https://a.co/d/03dK6z8X Kevin Kubler book. THE WAR YEARS AND BACK:  https://www.gettinsaltyapparel.com/

Today was a true honor to sit and chat with Mr. John Lightsey.  John Lightsey was one of the on duty FDNY Manhattan Dispatchers during the 9/11 Terrorist Attacks on The World Trade Center. To say this was an emotional conversation is an understatement.  25 years later and to John, speaking about that day brings him right back. The Fear, anxiety, stress, anger and every emotion you can think of comes right back.  I am truly humbled he agreed to sit at The Kitchen Table.  But John has done a few pretty cool things before becoming an FDNY DISPATCHER.   Born and raised in the Bronx, then moved to West Islip Long Island and became a volunteer firefighter. He worked on military fighter and reconnaissance aircraft for Grumman Aircraft Engineering Corporation. In 1994 he became an FDNY DISPATCHER in the borough of Queens. He eventually transferred to Manhattan and was the on duty dispatcher when the attacks occurred. John and the rest of the FDNY dispatchers did their best to take calls by civilians from the floors above the planes strikes, direct incoming FDNY units and distribute information the second they got it. They did this with calm and the utmost professionalism, that only the FDNY can do. John retired in 2013 and moved to FLORIDA and has been a Hernando county Fire Corp Volunteer for many years. He also aids the Tunnel to Towers mobile unit on occasion and organizes many 9/11 memorials.  Thank you to John Lightsey for sharing his story with us on The Kitchen Table.  All links to donate below.  John also contributed to Capt. Paul Browns Book Rising from Ground Zero.   #fyp #foryou #fdny #dispatch #dispatchers #dispatcher #manhattan #september11 #fire #firedepartment #9/11 #queens #johnlightsey  #thekitchentable #thekitchentable59 #hernandocountyfirecorp #tunneltotowersfoundation #tunneltotowers #foryoupage #fypage  #neverforget  Chapters:  00:00 intro 02:45early life 04:55volley fire 05:45 Grumman  12:05 fdny dispatch  14:33 training 19:45 breakdown of a 911 call 23:24 1st frantic call 24:34 calm 26:55 priority of calls 29:02 knowing the streets 33:25 hernando fire corp 36:56 calming frantic callers 38:15 what really bothers dispatchers 41:24 staying ahead on multiple alarms 43:55 high profile call 59:15 9/11 1:27: 49 fl memorial service Siller foundation  1:30:00 frequent caller 1:32:00 picture time 1:41:30 final thoughts and advice 1:47:30 outro Donate: https://t2t.org/ https://firefighterthomasjfoley.com/ https://www.911educationfoundation.org/scholarship VFW SPRING HILLS FB PAGE: https://www.facebook.com/share/1DXZV9nBMx/?mibextid=wwXIfr FDNY Retirees chapter 343 FB page: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1DVqVDtQxu/?mibextid=wwXIfr DISPATCHER JOHN LIGHTSEY FB page:  https://www.facebook.com/share/18kyrzp1Kb/?mibextid=wwXIfr Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by hosts, guests, and contributors are their own and do not reflect those of any affiliated organizations, employers, departments, or agencies. This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not professional, legal, medical, financial, or other specialized advice. Guests are solely responsible for their statements. The podcast and its producers do not necessarily endorse guest opinions. While we aim for accuracy, we make no guarantees about the completeness or reliability of any content. Listeners should use their own judgment and seek qualified professional advice when needed.

Today I had the ultimate pleasure of choppin’ it up with Retired FDNY Firefighter MATT LONG L43. FF LONG has had a very unique journey in the FDNY and Life in general.  Born and raised in Brooklyn NY he is the 2nd oldest of 9 brothers and sisters. Before he got on the FDNY he attended IONA University and upon graduation became and accountant. But accounting wouldn’t last long when he and his brother decided to open a bar in The City called  “3rd and Long”. The bar business was so successful they opened 4 other bars. In 1993 Matt got the call for the FDNY and upon completion of probie school he was assigned to LADDER 43 in Spanish Harlem. There, Matt would begin to train for Marathons and Iron Man Triathlons.  Because Matt was a D1 athlete, he quickly excelled in this field and it ultimately became his obsession.  Until one day, in December of 2005, during an illegal transit strike in NYC. Matt was forced to ride his bicycle to work at Randall’s island. But just 2 blocks from his house, he was hit by a charter bus, rented out by a company to transport their employees to and from work. His injuries were so severe he was given a 1 percent chance of living. But when doctors found out he was a marathon runner they upped that to 5 percent.  Defying the odds 5 months later Matt would leave the hospital determined to run a marathon, and compete in a triathlon again.  His recovery, rehab and training would be grueling. But in 2009/2010 he would compete and finish both the nyc marathon and lake placid iron man triathlon.  Matt was medically retired from the FDNY and now travels doing public speaking about his journey. He has also co-authored his memoir THE LONG RUN which can be purchased on Amazon. All links to the book and how to book Matt for a speaking engagement will be below. Thank You Matt for sitting with me on The Kitchen Table and showing us what the FDNY and the brothers meant to you and your family. Good luck the rest of the way brother! #fyp #fdny #fire #foryou #firefighter #firefighters #nyc #firedepartment #firehouse #ladder43 #spanishharlem #transitstrike #fireman #podcast #thekitchentable #thekitchentable59 #foryoupage #interview #mattlong #thelongrun #marathon #ironmantriathlete #lakeplacid #3rdandlong #nycmarathon #9/11 #lionelhampton #rockawayplanecrash #breezypoint #publicspeaking Chapters: 00:00 intro 03:00 early life 04:33 Longs ice cream 09:20 college & accounting  12:15 FDNY test 13:40 3rd & Long  21:15 FDNY 25:00 L43 funny story 28:00 first fire 32:30 pride & roof story 34:26 Drager 35:15 pride cont.  40:05 pranks from The Brat Pack 45:32 NY times “senior guy” 49:50 Colorado fire 51:10 Lionel Hampton fire 53:30 9/11 1:03:00 fear 1:04:30 fire story in the engine 1:09:16 Drager 1:11:36 Iron Man/Marathon 1:15:30 the accident  1:27:30 marathon/iron man 1:36:10 starting to feel like yourself  1:40:50 visualization  1:44:40 The Long Run 1:52:00 Kirk Lester 1:54:00 winding down 1:57:00 outro Links to Matt Long: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattlongspeaker?igsh=aXZwZDNiNDlvaW1x&igsi=aXZwZDNiNDlvaW1x The Long Run Amazon: https://a.co/d/0dFEXlBm Mattlongspeaker.com: http://mattlongspeaker.com/ Drager links:   https://scba.me/nyc https://youtube.com/@AirBossSCBA?si=zNgFA8ZGXz9NnWv5 https://www.draeger.com/en-us_us/Home Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by hosts, guests, and contributors are their own and do not reflect those of any affiliated organizations, employers, departments, or agencies. This podcast is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not professional, legal, medical, financial, or other specialized advice. Guests are solely responsible for their statements. The podcast and its producers do not necessarily endorse guest opinions. While we aim for accuracy, we make no guarantees about the completeness or reliability of any content. Listeners should use their own judgment and seek qualified professional advice when needed.

Today I had the honor to chop it up with Retired FDNY FF JIMMY LOWE. FF Lowe began his career as a volunteer in the Hempstead Long Island VFD. Upon his appointment to the FDNY he left the volunteers. Jimmy has over 33 years on the FDNY, starting in 1991 he’s was assigned to Engine 332 in East New York, Brooklyn. In 1997 he’s transferred across the floor to Ladder 175. In 2002 FF Lowe  transferred up to the Bronx to 33 Truck. Then went over to Rescue 3 in the Bronx. Rescue 3 covers The Bronx and Harlem. FF Lowe retired at the very beginning on 2025.  FF Lowe had an amazing career and worked in very busy companies, gaining a ton of experience.  He has made numerous rescues of children at fires and also responded to FDNY Line of duty death Fires, including the Vandalia Ave Fire and The Walton Ave Fire. He has received numerous unit citations and a Service “A” Medal for his efforts at fires throughout his career. FF Lowe has also competed in numerous cooking competitions as fundraisers for various FDNY charities.  Thank you FF Lowe for your service to the city of New York serving on the FDNY. And thank you for sitting at The Kitchen Table. Good luck in retirement. All links to DRAGER are below the description.  DRAGER AIR BOSS. MADE FOR AMERICA. READY FOR NEW YORK. #fyp #foryou #fire #firefighter #firefighters #fdny #firedepartment #firehouse #rescue #thekitchentable #thekitchentable59 #podcast #podcasts #brotherhood #firehousekitchen #newyork #foryoupage #interview #conversation #rescue3 #ladder #engine #drager #dragerairboss #scba #airboss Chapters: 00:00 intro 03:55 early life 11:20 Hempstead VFD  13:00 FDNY physical  16:30 E332 22:20 L175 25:35 Vandalia Ave Fire 33:35 L33 35:00 Drager Promo 36:07 L33 continue  39:10 accident 44:40 9/11 52:00 Rescue 3 58:30 down fireman training 1:06:50 Walton Ave Fire 1:10:00 Drager Promo 1:12:12 Walton Ave continue 1:16:25 L175 fire story 1:28:00 day to day in the Rescue 1:33:00 5 children rescued 1:41:00 medal for another child rescue 1:45:30 cooking competitions funny story 1:54:00 bonding at the table 1:55:40 picture time 1:58:00 retirement  2:10:00 final advice 2:18:00 outro Links: Drager  https://www.draeger.com/CountrySelection Drager Air Boss YouTube:  https://youtube.com/@AirBossSCBA?si=f9vwEODHg6Oy8X8- Drager instagram: https://www.instagram.com/draegerfirena?igsh=MWtvZ2pleH Drager SCBA/NYC https://scba.me/nyc

Today on the show I have the ultimate honor of choppin’ it up with a man who is part of 4 generations of FDNY firefighters.  Lt. KEVIN FLANAGAN L28 Ret. Lt. FLANAGAN has over 39 years on the FDNY, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather. His 2 sons are currently active Captains on the job. Lt. FLANAGAN got on the job in 1977 and was assigned to 61 Engine in the Bronx. He transferred to 59 Truck and eventually did 4 years in Rescue 3 from 87-91.  He was promoted to Lt. in 1991 and was assigned to the 26 Battalion in Division 6. He eventually lands a spot in 42 truck in 1992. He would later transfer to Ladder company 28, THE HARLEM HILTON in 1997 and remain there until retirement in 2017.  Lt. Flanagan has been awarded numerous citations and medals including The Hugh Bonner medal in 2010, The Daily News Hero of the Month in 2009, and the Holy Name Man of the Year, alongside BC Michael Fahy (posthumously) in 2017, just to name a few.  He, his father and his 2 sons were interviewed by GOOD MORNING AMERICA, for being part of 4 generations on the FDNY. You can watch that video by CLICKING ON THE LINK BELOW, truly amazing family.   In retirement Lt. Flanagan is still giving back to the brothers and sisters of the FDNY, by becoming a peer counselor for the Counseling Service Unit CSU. He and other fellow retired firefighters visit firehouses across the city to remind the brothers and sisters that there is help available if they need it, in any capacity. A service that has saved many lives. Thank you Lt. Kevin Flanagan for your service to the FDNY, The city of NEW YORK and the family you have raised. And thank you for hanging with me on The Kitchen Table. #foryou #fdny #fire #firefighter #firetime #fyp #firehouse #firedepartment #harlem #harlemhilton #ladder28 #brotherhood #thekitchentable #thekitchentable59 #firestation #firestories #career #retirement #csu #rescue #rescue3 #lieutenant Chapters: 00:00 intro 02:40 early life 04:40 1971 FDNY test 08:30 father  11:20 fast career 13:37 E61/layoffs 20:50 grandfather/triangle waist shirt fire 24:30 L59 30:00 wedding picture on the back step 31:00 fire story  35:20 L59 studying for Lt. 41:00 R3/promotion/L42 45:30 getting over to L28 52:15 making a grab 56:00 El hoyo fire 58:30 feeling good about what we do 1:01:20 Hugh Bonner Medal 1:07:00 sons on the job 1:10:40 hero of the month 1:14:30 man of the year 1:19:00 sewage treatment fire L28 1:23:00 warehouse fire lessons learned 1:33:00 4 generations on the FDNY 1:35:50 CSU 1:56:35 advice for the members seeking help  2:03:40 Christmas Fire 2:06:30 picture time 2:13:20 Kenny D photo bomb 2:20:20 Final advice 2:25:00 outro Links to GMA 4 Generations of Flanagans on the FDNY: https://youtu.be/956rUkoLZ0Q?is=XkWq-anHHp1IC6We Links to CSU:  https://ufanyc.org/health-safety... (212) 570-1693

Today I had the honor of choppin’ it up with FDNY BC GEORGE CAMPBELL. Ret. Chief Campbell has over 38 years on the FDNY. He got on the job in 1985 and was assigned to E225. He transferred up to 75 Engine in 1987 and was one of the busiest houses on the job at that time He was promoted to Lt. in 1997 and assigned to the 9th Battalions “R” group, but did mutual exchange tours with with Battalion 12’s “R” group. So he worked in Midtown Manhattan and Harlem until he landed a spot in 82 Engine in the Bronx. He was promoted to Captain in 2006 and eventually assigned to 40 Truck. He was promoted to Battalion Chief in 2010 and was assigned to the 26 Battalion. Chief Campbell retired in 2023. In Chief Campbells 38 years he has responded to many significant incidents including, The Happy Land Fire, Black Sunday, 9/11, Hurricanes Katrina and Sandy, and the Twin Parks fire in the Bronx where 17 people were killed. It is also noted that Chief Campbell has been an emergency room trauma Nurse for 30 years working at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital. In Retirement Chief Campbell volunteers him time with the 9/11 museum, the 343 bike rides and the mobile 9/11 museum sponsored by Tunnel to Towers Stephen Siller foundation. Thank you Chief for sharing your story, it was an honor. Good luck in retirement and stay busy. #foryou #fyp #fdny #firetime #fire #firefighter #brotherhood #firehouse #firedepartment #firestation #firestories #happyland #9/11 #blacksunday #podcast #battalion26 #battalionchief #thekitchentable #thekitchentable59 #twinparksfire #fireman #firefightpodcast #interview Chapters: 00:00 intro 02:30 early life 04:15 e225 05:33 close call in l103 08:00 e75 13:30 lessons learned in 75 20:00 promotion to Lt. 23:30 e59? 25:30 e82 28:00 Dennis smith 30:00 9/11 36:30 banksville fd 38:40 bodega fire only unit 41:00 gps unit at ground zero 47:37 promoted to Capt. 40 truck 52:06 promoted to BC 26 battalion  1:00:15 advice to officers 1:05:42 happy land/black Sunday  1:10:45 twin peaks fire 1:25:00 sandy in breezy 1:28:57 staying busy in retirement  1:31:30 picture time 1:41:00 instruction in probie school 1:45:00 final advice  1:53:00 outro Links: https://t2t.org/ https://www.fdny343ride.com/ https://www.911memorial.org/lear... https://www.fdnyfoundation.org/c...

Today I had the pleasure of choppin’ it up with one of the biggest supporters of The Kitchen Table. Retired Durham City N.C. Fire Rescue FF, JOHN “JJ” JOHNSON. JJ was born and raised in Peekskill NY, where his father was one of the first five African American Police Officers hired in Peekskill in 1962-63. He then moved to Dutchess Co. NY and became a Volunteer Firefighter at 16 years old in 1980, with the New Hamburg FD. He was an original Dutchess co hazmat firefighter. Moved to California and attended a self funded fire academy in Costa Contract County. But right Before getting hired there he packed up and moved back east to North Carolina. He was hired by Bethesda Fire in Durham County NC in 2001. Left there to get on with the Cary Fire Department in 2001 and stayed there until 2011. Left the Fire service for 16 months to start his own training business called FULLY INVOLVED TRAINING LLC.     Gets back into the Fire service in 2013 and hired by Durham City NC  Fire Rescue, where he stayed until retirement in 2/2026. He still runs his training company in retirement. And you can find him in the links below. FF Johnson has made numerous rescues and unit citations in his over 40 year career,  between the volunteer and professional fire service. It was a great conversation with JJ and I am honored he sat with me. Thank you and the Best of luck in retirement Juice! #foryou #podcast #firetime #fire #fyp #firefighter #fireman #volley #volunteer #firerescue #durhamnc #durhamfirerescue #durhamfiredepartment #firedepartment #firestation #firestories #firetraining #thekitchentable59 #thekitchentable #firemanpodcast #foryoupage #mentalhealth #fullyinvolvedtrainingllc Chapters: 00:00 intro 02:30 catching up 04:40 early life 14:30 dutchess volley first fire 19:00 dutchess hazmat 22:10 cali contra costa 29:39 Bethesda FD  31:30 9/11 34:53 Cary FD  39:20 rough times in Cary 43:30 rescue 49:30 calls to people 53:00 fully involved training LLC 1:00:00 ev fires 1:05:06 Durham FD 1:12:00 Durham city fire rescue 1:17:15 units citations 1:22:30 miss driving the rig 1:28:00 tanker & quint 1:31:20 dealing with trauma, stress and ptsd 1:41:30 final advice 1:46:20 outro Links to Fully Involved Training LLC: https://www.facebook.com/share/1... https://www.facebook.com/share/1... Therapists links: https://www.thedopeblacktherapis...

Today I had the pleasure of choppin’ it up with retired FDNY FF BOBBY McGUIRE. Bobby is originally from Rockaway NY, but moved to Howard Beach Queens at an early age.  He got on the FDNY in Late 1981 and was assigned to E294. After the company closed due to budget cuts he went to E285. He then transferred back to L143 and subsequently finished his career in 2002 out of L173. Bobby is a boxer and has been most of his life. Fighting twice in the NYC Golden Gloves. He also got on the FDNY boxing team in 1983 and became the first FDNY FF to win gold at the World Police and Fire Olympic Games.  Bobby is now the President of the Boxing team and they have an event June 26th THRILLA IN CAMILLA. A boxing event in Rockaway NY. Boxing on the beach and under the stars. FDNY vs THE WORLD.  You can get tickets on fdnyboxing.org. All links to the events below. Bobby also owned a series of Nightclubs over the years including one with the famous Yankees 3rd baseman Greg Nettles. He also knew some very influential people in the Howard Beach Area in the 80’s and 90’s. You certainly don’t want to miss this episode. Bobby’s experience in life, boxing and the fire department make for some amazing stories. I can’t thank Bobby enough, a true gentleman, for sitting with me at The Kitchen Table. All links to the THRILLA IN CAMILLA, the boxing team and various FDNY charities below.  #foryou #fdny #fdnyboxing #fyp #firefighter #firetime #foryourpage #boxing #fdnyboxingclub #thrillaincamilla #rockawaybeach # firedepartment #firehouse #inthering #boxers #firestories #bobbymcguire #goldengloves Chapters: 00:00 intro 02:45 early life 05:00 boxing 08:40 FDNY E294 11:15 first fire jitters 14:40 fight prep in the FH 16:30 KO 18:45 Knicks family 20:30 294 closure 24:00 Gold medal boxing team 28:30 tough opponents  31:30 THRILLA IN CAMILLA 34:30 nightclub business  42:40 9/11 rebirth of boxing team 45:50 Rockaway plane crash 49:00 Frankie and Johnnys 52:00 John Gotti 56:30 influences  1:05:30 prepping for a fight 1:10:00 intro song prank 1:11:00 women on the team 1:17:00 picture time 1:28:35 THRILLA IN CAMILLA 1:31:30 final advice 1:34:00 outro Links:   THRILLA IN CAMILLA  https://fdnyboxing.org/ https://www.instagram.com/fdnybo... https://victoryboxing.com/ STORMBORN STRENGTH AND FITNESS: https://www.stormbornstrength.com/ Charities: https://t2t.org/donate/ https://www.firefamilytransport.... https://friendsoffirefighters.org/ https://www.nyffburncenter.com/

Today I had the pleasure of choppin’ it up with FDNY Capt. DAN O’SHEA. Capt. O’Shea hails from Queens NY, Attended Sienna College and graduated with a Philosophy degree. He joined the FDNY in JULY of 2002 and assigned to L112 out of Probie school. He was promoted to Lt. in 2008 and assigned to L102. Promoted to Captain in 2016. He did 1 year in the 1st division and transferred to the 6th Division where he was eventually assigned to L31. Capt. O’Shea was awarded the John H Prentice Medal for valor in 2023, for his efforts saving a mother and infant from a fire. He retired December 2025 and is currently a volunteer firefighter for the Warwick Valley FD. He also is an instructor teaching firematics across the country and soon in Latin America. It was a great conversation, with lots of insight of firefighting and life in general. Thank you Capt. For sitting with me at my Kitchen Table.  #foryou #firetime #fire #fyp #fdny #firefighter #foryourpage #captain #firehouse #brotherhood #firedepartment #volley #philosophy #instructor #spanish #fdic #firestation #podcast #interview #conversation #thekitchentable #thekitchentable59 Chapters: 00:00 intro 02:30 early life 10:20 Philosophy  11:56 FDNY 15:00 probie school 21:00 L112 25:20 The Blackout 28:03 perp shoots cop 33:40 promotion to Lt L102 40:00 promotion to Capt 43:40 difference between 6th and 15th 51:00 engine work 54:30 wvfd 55:16 medal story 1:08:30 mpi training  1:20:00 philosophy  1:27:30 retirement instruction  1:38:30 picture time 1:41:45 final thoughts 1:59:00 outro