Tips for NFA Enrollment and Update on State Weekend 2025
VDFP Podcast
Welcome to the VDFP Podcast, your source for the latest in Virginia’s fire service. In this episode, Chief Jamey Brads and facilitator Sandra Parker are joined by Charlotte Green, a key leader in coordinating NFA programs. Together, they break down the new streamlined process for NFA enrollment, share updates on the rescheduled 2025 State Weekend, and offer tips to make the most of your training opportunities. Whether you’re career, volunteer, or simply fire service curious, you’ll find valuable insights and resources to keep you at the top of your game. Subscribe for new weekly episodes...
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Building Fire Service Passion: Decades of Service and the Virginia State Firefighters Association
VDFP Podcast
Welcome to the Virginia Department of Fire Programs (VDFP) Podcast! In this episode, host Chief Jamey Brads and facilitator Sandra Parker welcome Larry Gwaltney, Executive Director of the Virginia State Firefighters Association (VSFA) and a true fixture in Virginia’s fire service since 1966. If you’re looking for inspiration, stories from the front lines, and ways to get more involved in Virginia’s fire service, this episode is for you! Subscribe for new weekly episodes every Tuesday and get insights into fire services and training techniques. ...
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Insights on Fire Service Leadership, Change, and Community Impact
VDFP Podcast
Welcome to the VDFP Podcast! In this episode, Chief Jamey Brads and Sandra Parker sit down with Chief Keith Johnson, a fourth-generation firefighter whose career has spanned over 40 years from Long Island to leadership roles in Fairfax and Loudoun Counties. Chief Johnson shares insights from his extensive experience, including building one of the largest combination fire systems, navigating change, and advocating for resources and safety improvements across Virginia. He also reflects on receiving the Governor’s Award for Career Fire Chief of the Year and offers inspiring advice for those...
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Mentorship and Leadership: Empowering the Next Generation of Firefighters
VDFP Podcast
In this episode, host Chief Jamey Brads and facilitator Sandra Parker sit down with Deputy Chief Abbey Johnston, Deputy Chief of Operations for Bedford County Fire and Rescue and Vice Chair of the Virginia Fire Services Board. Abbey shares her inspiring story of joining the fire service after 9/11, her rise through the ranks, and her commitment to mentoring others and advocating for Virginia’s Fire Service. Whether you’re new to the field or a seasoned pro, Abbey’s insights on leadership, mentorship, and service are sure to motivate and inspire. Don’t miss this engaging and informative...
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Forestry and Fire Services: Partnerships, Programs, and Prescribed Burns
VDFP Podcast
Welcome to the VDFP Podcast! In this episode, Sandra Parker and Chief Jamey Brads are joined once again by John Miller, Chief of Wildfire and Emergency Response for the Virginia Department of Forestry. With over 35 years in the field, John unpacks vital topics like Virginia’s innovative dry hydrant program, rural water supply solutions, funding and grants for fire departments, and how state and federal agencies coordinate on wildfire response. You’ll get an inside look at prescribed burns, specialized training academies, and the everyday challenges facing Virginia’s fire and forestry...
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Forestry and Fire Services: Partnering to Tackle Wildfires in Virginia
VDFP Podcast
In this episode of the VDFP Podcast, facilitator Sandra Parker and host Chief Jamey Brads sit down with John Miller, Chief of Wildfire and Emergency Response at the Virginia Department of Forestry. With over 35 years in the field, John discusses his path through forestry, the realities of managing wildfires across Virginia, and how close partnerships between forestry and local fire services make all the difference. From the logistics of suppressing hundreds of fires a year to the importance of training, resource sharing, and lessons learned from across the nation, this episode offers a unique...
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Teamwork in Crisis: How VDFP and VDEM Strengthen Virginia’s Fire Service
VDFP Podcast
Welcome to the VDFP Podcast! In this episode, host Chief Jamey Brads and facilitator Sandra Parker sit down with Andy John, Deputy State Coordinator for Field Operations at VDEM, to explore the vital role of teamwork within Virginia’s fire service. Together, they share powerful stories of collaboration during major incidents like Hurricane Helene and the Richmond water outage, highlighting how partnerships between VDFP and VDEM strengthen Virginia’s emergency response. Tune in for practical insights on bridging gaps, building trust, and why working together leads to better results for...
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Collaborative Rescues: How VDFP and State Agencies Save Lives in Virginia
VDFP Podcast
Welcome to the VDFP Podcast! In this episode, "Collaborative Rescues: How VDFP and State Agencies Save Lives in Virginia," Sandra Parker and Chief Jamey Brads sit down with Bryan Saunders, Director of Special Operations at Virginia Department of Emergency Management (VDEM). They discuss the vital partnerships between state and local agencies that make large-scale rescue operations possible, from USAR teams and HazMat response to groundbreaking water and air rescue efforts. Bryan shares compelling stories from real incidents, like Hurricane Helene, highlighting how communication and...
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Surface and Swift Water Training Insight
VDFP Podcast
Welcome to the VDFP Podcast! In this episode, Chief Jamey Brads and Chief Mark Cumashot, Assistant Chief of Special Operations for Henrico Fire, take us inside the world of Surface and Swift Water Rescue Training in Virginia. Hear how the program has evolved over nearly three decades, what sets it apart from others, and why maintaining high standards matters for responder safety and proficiency. Whether you’re involved in Special Ops or just curious about Technical Rescue, you’ll find valuable insights and practical advice from one of the state’s leading experts. Subscribe for new weekly...
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What's ahead for Special Ops in Virginia
VDFP Podcast
Welcome to the VDFP Podcast! In this episode, Chad Riddleberger, Chief of Special Operations at the Virginia Department of Fire Programs, shares updates on the major progress happening in Special Ops—from statewide curriculum overhauls and program reaccreditation to cutting-edge rescue training and expanding specialties like airport firefighting and future marine rescue initiatives. Whether you’re new to the fire service or a veteran looking to stay ahead, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at what’s driving innovation and excellence in Virginia’s Special Operations. Don’t...
info_outlineWelcome to the VDFP Podcast! In this episode, host Chief Jamey Brads explores innovative career recruitment strategies in the fire service with Assistant Fire Chief Steven Hall Jr. from Richmond. Chief Hall shares how they revamped their recruitment process by opening continuous applications, using online testing, and rethinking physical ability tests to attract a diverse candidate pool. Tune in for valuable insights on overcoming recruitment challenges and redefining hiring practices to better serve the fire service community.
Subscribe for new weekly episodes every Tuesday and get insights into fire services and training techniques. Send your questions and suggestions for the VDFP Podcast to [email protected]
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