The 25 Live with Jim Burneka

Nick & Jim 15 – Eileen & Kat Bellew

On this episode of We Can’t Believe They Gave Us a Show, hosts Nick Magoteaux and Jim Burneka welcome guests Eileen and her daughter Kat Bellew. Eileen shares the raw and moving story of how their lives were changed by the tragic loss of Eileen’s husband John, a New York City firefighter who died in the Bronx Black Sunday Fire, 21 years ago. They recount the harrowing moments of that January day, the agonizing uncertainty, and the crushing aftermath of grief compounded by a long and complex criminal trial. The conversation explores the lasting impact on their family—children grappling with PTSD, a mother’s hypervigilance, and the struggle to find peace amid relentless pain. Eileen discusses her upcoming memoir, offering insight into widowhood and raising four children after tragedy. The post Nick & Jim 15 – Eileen & Kat Bellew [https://firefightercancerconsultants.com/nick-jim-15-eileen-kat-bellew/] appeared first on Firefighter Cancer Consultants [https://firefightercancerconsultants.com].

APS Radio 58 – Jim Burneka

In this episode of APS Radio, host Jim Burneka talks about his own experience living with cancer. He offers insight on the mental toll cancer takes, including the crippling fear of recurrence that can grip survivors from year to year. Burneka emphasizes the importance of trauma-informed support, mentorship from fellow firefighters who understand the unique challenges of a diagnosis. Beyond the struggle, Burneka offers hope, urging listeners to refocus on what truly matters and live fully despite uncertainty. Find more support through the Firefighter Cancer Support Network (FCSN), 866-994-3276, and the University of Miami Firefighter Cancer Initiative. The post APS Radio 58 – Jim Burneka [https://firefightercancerconsultants.com/aps-radio-58-jim-burneka/] appeared first on Firefighter Cancer Consultants [https://firefightercancerconsultants.com].

Nick & Jim 14 – Jen Cramer

On this episode of We Can’t Believe They Gave Us a Show, hosts Jim Burneka and Nick Magoteaux welcome their longtime friend Jen Cramer (FirmFoundationCC.com/). The three tackle the real challenges of seasonal depression in the firefighting community. As the days get darker and the holidays approach, many firefighters face isolation, grief, and stress. Cramer, a licensed therapist in Ohio, shares practical advice, from embracing heated apparel for wintertime activity to using light therapy and vitamin D supplements. During their discussion, they also emphasize the value of including retirees in the firefighting family to help combat loneliness. The post Nick & Jim 14 – Jen Cramer [https://firefightercancerconsultants.com/nick-jim-14-jen-cramer/] appeared first on Firefighter Cancer Consultants [https://firefightercancerconsultants.com].

APS Radio 57 – Seth Haley

Seth Haley, president of Trotwood (OH) Firefighters Local 4024 joins host Jim Burneka on this episode of APS Radio. They discuss the proposed layoffs of five firefighters from the City of Trotwood and the SAFER grant they were part of, which expired in February 2025. The conversation addresses the implications for community safety, staffing shortages, and firefighter morale—especially amidst rising call volumes and fire incidents. Haley sheds light on internal department dynamics, nonessential roles, and legal protections around layoffs. They emphasize the urgent need for community support and open dialogue with city leadership The post APS Radio 57 – Seth Haley [https://firefightercancerconsultants.com/aps-radio-57-seth-haley/] appeared first on Firefighter Cancer Consultants [https://firefightercancerconsultants.com].

Nick & Jim 13 – Frank Leto

During this episode of We Can’t Believe They Gave Us a Show, hosts Nick Magoteaux and Jim Burneka welcome guest Frank Leto, the recently retired deputy director of the Counseling Service Unit (CSU) for FDNY. Leto works diligently with the IAFF’s Peer Support Program. He discusses his experience becoming part of the CSU, peer support before and after 9/11, and various other deployments. His stories honor fallen brothers and sisters while emphasizing that saving lives isn’t only about fires but also about lifting each other out of dark places. Now in retirement, Leto is focused on mentoring the next generation and sharing the powerful lessons he’s learned. The post Nick & Jim 13 – Frank Leto [https://firefightercancerconsultants.com/nick-jim-13-frank-leto/] appeared first on Firefighter Cancer Consultants [https://firefightercancerconsultants.com].