Trial by Fire: Untold Stories

Trial By Fire 011: John Curcio

For 30+ years, John Curcio has been a dedicated fireman in Western Pennsylvania. He has spent 15 years as a fire chief and is currently serving at the Valley Inn Fire Department. John is also a top-performing sales advisor in Western Pennsylvania for Howell Rescue Systems. This is John's story. _____________________________ This podcast is proudly sponsored by Howell Rescue Systems, Crash Course Village. For more information, please visit them at: www.howellrescue.com and www.CrashCourseVillage.org

Todd Howell: Touching Lives Through Innovative Equipment and Hands-On Training

In this episode of Trial By Fire: Untold Stories, we dive into the incredible journey of Todd Howell, the man behind Howell Rescue Systems and Crash Course Village—two names that have shaped the fire service for decades. Todd's story isn't just about building a business; it's about building a legacy. From growing up watching his father lead one of the top volunteer rescue squads to pioneering game-changing rescue tools and creating one of the most respected firefighter training programs in the country, Todd has dedicated his life to helping first responders save lives. He shares how he fought through setbacks, industry changes, and competition to build Howell Rescue Systems into a leader in rescue tool innovation. At the same time, he saw a critical gap in firefighter training and founded Crash Course Village, where thousands of firefighters have honed their skills in extrication, survival, and hands-on rescue scenarios. In this episode, we cover: How Howell Rescue Systems revolutionized fire and rescue tools The birth of Crash Course Village and why firefighter training needed to change Todd's relentless drive to support first responders with the best tools and training possible The personal sacrifices, challenges, and victories along the way What's next for the Howell legacy and the future of fire rescue This episode is more than just a history lesson—it's a tribute to Todd's impact on the fire service and the thousands of firefighters who are better trained and better equipped because of him. If you're a firefighter, first responder, or just someone who respects the grit and passion of those who dedicate their lives to saving others, this one's for you. _____________________________ This podcast is proudly sponsored by Howell Rescue Systems, Crash Course Village. For more information, please visit them at: www.howellrescue.com and www.CrashCourseVillage.org

Breaking the Stigma: Mental Health & Resilience in the Fire Service with Alison Fienning

In this powerful episode of Trial By Fire: Untold Stories, hosts RJ and Jared sit down with Alison Fienning, a licensed mental health clinician and founder of the largest first responder-exclusive mental health agency in Ohio. With firsthand experience and deep connections to the fire service, Alison shares insights into the mental health challenges firefighters and first responders face, the stigma surrounding therapy, and the importance of resilience. From her personal journey to founding a multi-state mental health network to her hands-on approach of riding alongside crews, Alison provides raw, real, and much-needed perspective on the state of mental health in emergency services. Whether you're a firefighter, first responder, or someone who cares about them, this episode is a must-listen. _____________________________ This podcast is proudly sponsored by Howell Rescue Systems, Inc. and Jared Buckley, Fire Chief Coach. For more information, please visit them at: www.howellrescue.com and www.jaredbuckley.com

Training the Next Generation of Fire Fighters with Rick Best

Rick Best is a former firefighter for the city of Westerville, OH. He has been an Advocate Manager for the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and an instructor at the State Fire Academy. Currently Rick runs the firefighter program at Eastland - Fairfield Career Center. _____________________________ This podcast is proudly sponsored by Howell Rescue Systems, Inc. and Jared Buckley, Fire Chief Coach. For more information, please visit them at: www.howellrescue.com and www.jaredbuckley.com

The Balance of the Fire Service with Paul Andrix

Paul Andrix is a firefighter in the city of Dayton, Ohio. He began his career as a part-time firefighter and worked his way into a full-time position with The Dayton Fire Department. In this episode, we talk about the work-life balance, current challenges in the fire service, and lessons learned through a career in the fire service.--- _____________________________ This podcast is proudly sponsored by Howell Rescue Systems, Inc. and Jared Buckley, Fire Chief Coach. For more information, please visit them at: www.howellrescue.com and www.jaredbuckley.com