Firefighters Global Consulting - Behind The Smoke

Be Your Own Health Advocate

In this episode, we break down what it actually means to take ownership of your health in the fire service. From surviving the academy and probation to ensuring your career longevity, you can't wait or expect for the department to protect you at every turn. We’re covering the hard truths of the job; from reporting injuries, to critical importance of sleep hygiene, to how to proactively combat the quiet killers of our profession - cancer and PTSD. Tune in and take care of yourselves!

Special Guest - Stephen Majetic

In this episode we sit down with Stephen majestic to discuss and learn about how firefighters can invest, save, and plan for retirement! Stephen Majetic is a financial advisor and entrepreneur, and the founder of Everwealth. After starting his career in banking, he spent the past 12 years building an independent practice focused on honest, client-first advice. Stephen is known for breaking down complex financial strategies into clear, practical terms, so clients feel confident and fully understand their decisions—something that truly sets him apart from the typical advisory experience.

Special Guest - Brendan Nelson

Introducing the newest member of the FGC team! Brendan Nelson! Brendan has been a career firefighter for 5 years now spending the last year and a half on the Hazmat team. Previously Brendan was a volunteer firefighter in Point Roberts, Washington. He is also Currently the director of fundraising for World Police Fire Games Club in his department . Partnered with Firefighters Global Consulting in 2025 stepping into the role of Client Acquisition President.

Special Guest - Mike Elhihi

Mike is a Company Officer in a California fire department and the founder of Front Seat Academy, an online leadership and promotional preparation platform designed to expand access and opportunity for firefighters pursuing advancement. With over 14 years in the fire service, Mike has served in multiple operational roles including engine operator, tiller operator, truck driver, and fire boat pilot. His experience includes suppression operations, multi-company incidents, maritime response, and high-performance team environments. Beyond operations, Mike has been actively involved in labor leadership for nearly a decade and currently serve in an executive association role. His writing has been featured in national fire service publications, with additional work accepted for future release. Through Front Seat Academy, He has designed and built a comprehensive self-paced online program focused on preparing firefighters for the promotional process. The curriculum includes leadership development, interview preparation, role-play scenarios, in-basket exercises, essay writing, and tactical simulations. The mission is to help capable firefighters translate real-world experience into assessable performance and step confidently into the officer role.

Special Guest - Terry Parma

In this episode we sit down with Sgt. Terry Parma of the Vancouver police recruiting team. Terry launched his policing career in 2007 as a Custodial Guard at the Vancouver Jail. After graduating from the Justice Institute of BC, he served in various roles across Districts 2 and 3, worked in Recruiting, and became a Neighbourhood Police Officer at the Khalsa Diwan Community Police Office. As a Sergeant, he had the opportunity to return to the VPD Jail to coach and mentor the next generation of law enforcement officers. Since 2022, Terry has been one of four Sergeants in the Recruiting section. Throughout his career, Terry has spearheaded numerous youth and community initiatives that have made a lasting impact within the VPD. His dedication and service have earned him multiple commendations, including the two Chief Constable’s Commendations, the Lieutenant Governor’s Award of Valour, and the Vancouver Police Foundation’s Community Volunteer of the Year.