Forestry and Fire Services: Partnering to Tackle Wildfires in Virginia
Release Date: 07/01/2025
Director Creasy on VDFP’s Achievements and Future
VDFP Podcast
Director Brad Creasy, Executive Director of the Virginia Department of Fire Programs, joins us for a focused conversation about the agency’s recent advancements and progress on ongoing challenges. Key topics include essential updates in firefighter pay and hands-on training, the agency’s push for innovation, mental health initiatives and new funding that supports Virginia’s fire service community. Subscribe: Follow VDFP on social media: Questions? Ideas for future episodes? Contact Learn more:
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USAR Advocacy and FEMA Reform with Chief Ken Pravetz
VDFP Podcast
In this episode Chief Ken Pravetz joins us, sharing his journey from the Air Force to Chief the Virginia Beach Fire Department, and his involvement with Virginia Task Force 2, one of only 28 federal USAR teams. We address the critical challenges facing FEMA’s USAR system, the evolving landscape of disaster response and the future of national emergency management policy providing insight into the complex realities confronting today’s fire service. Subscribe: Follow VDFP on social media: Questions? Ideas for future episodes?...
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VDFP’s New Training Approach and Division Realignment
VDFP Podcast
Welcome to the VDFP Podcast! In this episode, facilitator Sandra Parker, host Chief Jamey Brads, and VDFP Deputy Chief Michael Parris discuss the latest changes and the future goals for fire service training in Virginia. We share insights on agency realignment and leadership strategies in this behind-the-scenes look at how VDFP is working to better support firefighters all across the Commonwealth. Subscribe: Follow VDFP on social media: Questions? Ideas for future episodes? Contact Learn more:
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Inside Virginia Beach’s Structural Collapse School
VDFP Podcast
This episode features special guest Capt Jon Rigolo to discuss Virginia Beach’s Structural Collapse School. Hear how this sought-after program delivers hands-on training and leadership skills for firefighters from local, state and regional teams, setting a national standard in rescue operations. Get updates on program growth, upcoming classes and the importance of teamwork in today’s fire service. Subscribe: Follow VDFP on social media: Questions? Ideas for future episodes? Contact Learn more:
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Battling EV Fires: Tactics and Tools for Virginia Firefighters
VDFP Podcast
We tackle one of the industry’s hottest topics: electric vehicle and lithium-ion battery fires in this episode. With the December 1st statewide EV training deadline fast approaching, our discussion covers crucial updates, evolving best practices, and the unique hazards firefighters face in the age of EVs. We’ll share practical insights on response tools, safety tactics, and ongoing training needs. Subscribe: Follow VDFP on social media: Questions? Ideas for future episodes? Contact Learn more:
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Virginia Launches Technical Rescue Conference
VDFP Podcast
In this episode of the Podcast, we discuss the launch of the East Coast Technical Rescue Conference. They highlight the critical need for a forum where technical rescue professionals can exchange knowledge, examine new developments, and strengthen collaboration across the fire service. They address the importance of knowledge sharing, innovation, and professional collaboration in technical rescue. Subscribe: Follow VDFP on social media: Questions? Ideas for future episodes? Contact Learn more:
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Navigating NERIS: New Fire Service Reporting Requirements
VDFP Podcast
In this episode of the Virginia Department of Fire Programs Podcast, Chief Ken Brown and Spencer Willett explain the new NERIS reporting system—why it matters, how it impacts funding, and what help is available for Virginia fire departments. Subscribe: Follow VDFP on social media:
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Innovations in VDFP Special Operations Training
VDFP Podcast
Today, we sit down with Special Ops experts Chief Chad Riddleberger and Sarah Davis to share big updates in Virginia’s technical rescue training: new Paddle Craft program, changes to confined space certification and tips for planning your courses. Subscribe: Follow VDFP on social media:
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The Power of Mentorship in Henrico Fire Department
VDFP Podcast
Welcome to the VDFP Podcast! In this episode, Chief Jamey Brads and facilitator Sandra Parker welcome back Chief Jackson Baynard, Fire Chief of Henrico County Division of Fire. With decades of experience leading one of Virginia’s busiest departments, Chief Baynard shares valuable lessons on mentorship, leadership, and the evolving fire service. Listen in as Chief Baynard reflects on pivotal moments from his career, the significance of both positive and challenging mentors, and how “micro-mentoring” moments can spark lifelong growth. The episode takes you behind the scenes of how Henrico...
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NVERS Innovations: Advancing Public Safety Together
VDFP Podcast
In this episode of the VDFP Podcast, Chief Jamey Brads and Sandra Parker welcome Dr. Julie Gall from the Northern Virginia Emergency Response System (NVERS). They explore how NVERS is leading the way in multi-agency collaboration, developing innovative training programs, and overcoming the challenges of working across diverse jurisdictions. Dr. Gall shares her perspective on building strong regional partnerships, supporting public safety, and what gives her optimism for the future. If you’re interested in how collaboration and creativity are shaping emergency response in Virginia, you...
info_outlineIn 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 look at what it takes to protect Virginia’s forests and communities. Whether you're a fire professional or just curious about wildfire management, you won’t want to miss the insights and stories packed into this conversation!
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Send your questions and suggestions for the VDFP Podcast to pio@vdfp.virginia.gov
Learn more about the Virginia Department of Fire Programs, visit the VDFP website: www.vafire.com
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Download a podcast transcript by clicking on this link.