Forged by the Fire Transistor (https://transistor.fm) https://feeds.transistor.fm/forged-by-the-fire Hearing from frontline emergency service workers, sporting champions, and real world people about their stories of mental health and developing resilience through trails and success. © 2026 Forged by the Fire 4a649c62-02fb-500f-9f00-48bf5f822558 yes en Thu, 21 May 2026 06:02:53 +1200 Thu, 21 May 2026 06:03:12 +1200 https://img.transistorcdn.com/WJHBTsm5b89nxnaGHRqboDZxfx6018hl8GEL8CjnYGU/rs:fill:0:0:1/w:1400/h:1400/q:60/mb:500000/aHR0cHM6Ly9pbWct/dXBsb2FkLXByb2R1/Y3Rpb24udHJhbnNp/c3Rvci5mbS84ODM5/OGJkNzg1ODRhYmQw/MDY2ZWVlZmI2YTJk/ZjI1OS5wbmc.jpg Forged by the Fire episodic Forged by the Fire Hearing from frontline emergency service workers, sporting champions, and real world people about their stories of mental health and developing resilience through trails and success. Hearing from frontline emergency service workers, sporting champions, and real world people about their stories of mental health and developing resilience through trails and success. resilience, mental health, psychology, sports, frontline workers Levi Peeters forgedbythefirepod@gmail.com No No Humility on the Fire Ground: Bridging the Gap Between Volunteer and Career Firefighters 17 17 Humility on the Fire Ground: Bridging the Gap Between Volunteer and Career Firefighters full bfe20af4-d13e-434a-9a2a-24a449691114 https://share.transistor.fm/s/f7d515b2 What happens when a volunteer walks into a career fire station — and nobody knows how to talk to each other?

Joel, Ethan, and Levi all started as volunteers before making the jump to career firefighting. In this episode, they get honest about the ego, the misunderstandings, and the moments that actually changed things — for the better.

We talk about:
🔥 Why the tension between volunteers and career staff exists (and where it really comes from)
🔥 What it's like to transition from volunteer to career — and why humility is everything
🔥 The "mess table" culture that keeps both sides stuck
🔥 How one simple drill changed an entire relationship between a station and a brigade
🔥 Building real connection in composite brigades and family-friendly station culture

Whether you're in the fire service or not — this one's for anyone who's ever had to earn their place in a room full of people who weren't sure they wanted you there.

Leave the ego at the door. That's where it starts.

..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> What happens when a volunteer walks into a career fire station — and nobody knows how to talk to each other?

Joel, Ethan, and Levi all started as volunteers before making the jump to career firefighting. In this episode, they get honest about the ego, the misunderstandings, and the moments that actually changed things — for the better.

We talk about:
🔥 Why the tension between volunteers and career staff exists (and where it really comes from)
🔥 What it's like to transition from volunteer to career — and why humility is everything
🔥 The "mess table" culture that keeps both sides stuck
🔥 How one simple drill changed an entire relationship between a station and a brigade
🔥 Building real connection in composite brigades and family-friendly station culture

Whether you're in the fire service or not — this one's for anyone who's ever had to earn their place in a room full of people who weren't sure they wanted you there.

Leave the ego at the door. That's where it starts.

..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> Tue, 12 May 2026 18:00:00 +1200 Forged by the Fire Forged by the Fire 3407 What happens when a volunteer walks into a career fire station — and nobody knows how to talk to each other?

Joel, Ethan, and Levi all started as volunteers before making the jump to career firefighting. In this episode, they get honest about the ego, the misunderstandings, and the moments that actually changed things — for the better.

We talk about:
🔥 Why the tension between volunteers and career staff exists (and where it really comes from)
🔥 What it's like to transition from volunteer to career — and why humility is everything
🔥 The "mess table" culture that keeps both sides stuck
🔥 How one simple drill changed an entire relationship between a station and a brigade
🔥 Building real connection in composite brigades and family-friendly station culture

Whether you're in the fire service or not — this one's for anyone who's ever had to earn their place in a room full of people who weren't sure they wanted you there.

Leave the ego at the door. That's where it starts.

..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> firefighter podcast,volunteer firefighter,career firefighter,firefighter stories,fire service,volunteer vs career,firefighter culture,firefighter resilience,fire service podcast,mental health firefighters,firefighter identity,composite brigade,forged by the fire,firefighter interview,New Zealand fire service,FENZ,fire station culture,firefighter community,resilience podcast,firefighter mental health,ego check No Life Isn't Fair. Here's How He Dealt With It. | Swanie's Story 16 16 Life Isn't Fair. Here's How He Dealt With It. | Swanie's Story full ac1ea0ed-907a-4714-a53e-c2787c5bf4d9 https://share.transistor.fm/s/25352fbe Life doesn't deal a fair hand to everyone. Swanie knows that better than most — but what he did with that unfairness built a philosophy that carried him through 35 years in the fire service, a union career, and some of the hardest moments a person can face.

"I'm not a victim of life. I'm a participant in life."

That line says everything. This isn't a conversation about what went wrong — it's about what you choose to do when it does.

In this episode, Swanie — a 35-year veteran of the fire service and union rep — sits down around the BBQ to talk about the philosophy that's carried him through it all: you can't always control what happens to you. But you can always control what you do next.

In this conversation:
- Losing his father at 10 and why his family refused to be victims
- The "rock in the storm" mindset — and why worrying about the uncontrollable is a waste of energy
- "1 plus 1 equals 5" — what real teamwork actually looks like
- The invisible bucket we all carry — and why some people's fills up faster than others
- How 35 years in emergency services hardens you — and the scar it leaves on the people who love you
- "Only you have the power to stop loving the job" — staying in love with the job when the system fights back
- Why fairness isn't just a value for Swanie — it's the whole story

This one's for anyone who's been handed a hard life and had to figure out what to do with it.

Mike (Swanie) Swanson - Firefighter for 35 years, husband and father, union representative and great team player. He brings. refreshing, practical approach to life. 
..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> Life doesn't deal a fair hand to everyone. Swanie knows that better than most — but what he did with that unfairness built a philosophy that carried him through 35 years in the fire service, a union career, and some of the hardest moments a person can face.

"I'm not a victim of life. I'm a participant in life."

That line says everything. This isn't a conversation about what went wrong — it's about what you choose to do when it does.

In this episode, Swanie — a 35-year veteran of the fire service and union rep — sits down around the BBQ to talk about the philosophy that's carried him through it all: you can't always control what happens to you. But you can always control what you do next.

In this conversation:
- Losing his father at 10 and why his family refused to be victims
- The "rock in the storm" mindset — and why worrying about the uncontrollable is a waste of energy
- "1 plus 1 equals 5" — what real teamwork actually looks like
- The invisible bucket we all carry — and why some people's fills up faster than others
- How 35 years in emergency services hardens you — and the scar it leaves on the people who love you
- "Only you have the power to stop loving the job" — staying in love with the job when the system fights back
- Why fairness isn't just a value for Swanie — it's the whole story

This one's for anyone who's been handed a hard life and had to figure out what to do with it.

Mike (Swanie) Swanson - Firefighter for 35 years, husband and father, union representative and great team player. He brings. refreshing, practical approach to life. 
..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> Tue, 05 May 2026 18:00:00 +1200 Forged by the Fire Forged by the Fire 3108 Life doesn't deal a fair hand to everyone. Swanie knows that better than most — but what he did with that unfairness built a philosophy that carried him through 35 years in the fire service, a union career, and some of the hardest moments a person can face.

"I'm not a victim of life. I'm a participant in life."

That line says everything. This isn't a conversation about what went wrong — it's about what you choose to do when it does.

In this episode, Swanie — a 35-year veteran of the fire service and union rep — sits down around the BBQ to talk about the philosophy that's carried him through it all: you can't always control what happens to you. But you can always control what you do next.

In this conversation:
- Losing his father at 10 and why his family refused to be victims
- The "rock in the storm" mindset — and why worrying about the uncontrollable is a waste of energy
- "1 plus 1 equals 5" — what real teamwork actually looks like
- The invisible bucket we all carry — and why some people's fills up faster than others
- How 35 years in emergency services hardens you — and the scar it leaves on the people who love you
- "Only you have the power to stop loving the job" — staying in love with the job when the system fights back
- Why fairness isn't just a value for Swanie — it's the whole story

This one's for anyone who's been handed a hard life and had to figure out what to do with it.

Mike (Swanie) Swanson - Firefighter for 35 years, husband and father, union representative and great team player. He brings. refreshing, practical approach to life. 
..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> resilience mindset,life lessons podcast,dealing with loss,first responder mental health,firefighter podcast,mental health podcast,resilience,personal growth,grief,fairness,teamwork,mindset,life philosophy,firefighter union,peer support,emotional intelligence,forged by the fire,BBQ podcast,first responder podcast,frontline resilience,real talk,growth mindset No 45 Years in the Fire Service | Bruce's Story 15 15 45 Years in the Fire Service | Bruce's Story full 4dfc21cc-d093-438a-8ef7-b9f278bea13c https://share.transistor.fm/s/c7bcb683 *WARNING* this episode covers some raw content including traumatic deaths and suicide. 

In this episode, we sit down with Bruce — Chief Fire Officer, mentor, and the man Levi calls his "fire dad." Bruce joined the fire service at 18 and hasn't looked back. What started as a bit of volunteering became a 45-year journey through leadership, loss, identity, and a complete rethink of what it means to be strong.


Whether you lead a team, serve your community, or are quietly carrying more than you let on — Bruce's story will hit home.

Bruce Nilson - Chief Fire Officer of the Tauranga Volunteer Unit, 45 years as a volunteer firefighter and a respected leader. Bruce is known for being supportive and no-nonsense. 

..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> *WARNING* this episode covers some raw content including traumatic deaths and suicide. 

In this episode, we sit down with Bruce — Chief Fire Officer, mentor, and the man Levi calls his "fire dad." Bruce joined the fire service at 18 and hasn't looked back. What started as a bit of volunteering became a 45-year journey through leadership, loss, identity, and a complete rethink of what it means to be strong.


Whether you lead a team, serve your community, or are quietly carrying more than you let on — Bruce's story will hit home.

Bruce Nilson - Chief Fire Officer of the Tauranga Volunteer Unit, 45 years as a volunteer firefighter and a respected leader. Bruce is known for being supportive and no-nonsense. 

..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> Tue, 28 Apr 2026 18:00:00 +1200 Forged by the Fire Forged by the Fire 3201 *WARNING* this episode covers some raw content including traumatic deaths and suicide. 

In this episode, we sit down with Bruce — Chief Fire Officer, mentor, and the man Levi calls his "fire dad." Bruce joined the fire service at 18 and hasn't looked back. What started as a bit of volunteering became a 45-year journey through leadership, loss, identity, and a complete rethink of what it means to be strong.


Whether you lead a team, serve your community, or are quietly carrying more than you let on — Bruce's story will hit home.

Bruce Nilson - Chief Fire Officer of the Tauranga Volunteer Unit, 45 years as a volunteer firefighter and a respected leader. Bruce is known for being supportive and no-nonsense. 

..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> resilience, mental health, psychology, sports, frontline workers No Empathetic Leadership in a Fire Station | Ritchie's Story - Episode 14. Forged by the Fire podcast 14 14 Empathetic Leadership in a Fire Station | Ritchie's Story - Episode 14. Forged by the Fire podcast full bc5bc916-c6d1-44ca-ab34-214bb2ce3e0a https://share.transistor.fm/s/dd1cf9a0 Ritchie doesn't lead by talking the most — he leads by listening the best.

In this episode of Forged by the Fire, we sit down with Ritchie: a station officer, peer support advocate, and a quietly empathetic leader. He's not the loudest voice in the room — but the wisdom he carries is earned, not borrowed.

We dig into what it really means to lead people through hard things: how empathy without balance burns you out, why the old school firefighter identity clashes with the modern workplace, and what happens when communication breaks down at the worst possible moment.

This one is for anyone trying to figure out how to show up for others without losing themselves in the process.

#mentalhealth #firefighters #frontline #podcast #bbq #teamwork #crewlife 

..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> Ritchie doesn't lead by talking the most — he leads by listening the best.

In this episode of Forged by the Fire, we sit down with Ritchie: a station officer, peer support advocate, and a quietly empathetic leader. He's not the loudest voice in the room — but the wisdom he carries is earned, not borrowed.

We dig into what it really means to lead people through hard things: how empathy without balance burns you out, why the old school firefighter identity clashes with the modern workplace, and what happens when communication breaks down at the worst possible moment.

This one is for anyone trying to figure out how to show up for others without losing themselves in the process.

#mentalhealth #firefighters #frontline #podcast #bbq #teamwork #crewlife 

..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> Wed, 22 Apr 2026 16:36:18 +1200 Forged by the Fire Forged by the Fire 3989 Ritchie doesn't lead by talking the most — he leads by listening the best.

In this episode of Forged by the Fire, we sit down with Ritchie: a station officer, peer support advocate, and a quietly empathetic leader. He's not the loudest voice in the room — but the wisdom he carries is earned, not borrowed.

We dig into what it really means to lead people through hard things: how empathy without balance burns you out, why the old school firefighter identity clashes with the modern workplace, and what happens when communication breaks down at the worst possible moment.

This one is for anyone trying to figure out how to show up for others without losing themselves in the process.

#mentalhealth #firefighters #frontline #podcast #bbq #teamwork #crewlife 

..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> resilience, mental health, psychology, sports, frontline workers No Emotional Regulation: Why You're a Responder, Not a Reactor - Episode 13 - Forged by the Fire podcast 13 13 Emotional Regulation: Why You're a Responder, Not a Reactor - Episode 13 - Forged by the Fire podcast full 1279976b-d15b-440a-a327-fef39f78be1b https://share.transistor.fm/s/972b362c Most people think being tough means not feeling anything. KT and Dunnie spent careers as first responders — and they'll tell you that's exactly wrong.

In this episode, we sit down with Dunnie and KT — two former first responders — to talk about what it actually means to stay in control when everything around you is falling apart. This isn't theory. These are hard-won lessons from the frontline.

Suppressing what you feel doesn't make you stronger. It makes you a ticking clock. This conversation is for anyone who's ever been told to harden up — and felt something break inside when they did.

............

Kevin Taylor - former police officer with extensive experience including leadership, civil defence, search and rescue, and foreign postings. He is currently deputy mayor of Taupo.  Husband, dad and grandfather. He brings a wealth of experience. 

Brendon Dunn (Dunnie) - firefighter in Tauranga, mental health advocate within the brigade, and always keen for a yarn. 


#mentalhealth #frontline #firefighter #resilience #podcast #bbq

..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> Most people think being tough means not feeling anything. KT and Dunnie spent careers as first responders — and they'll tell you that's exactly wrong.

In this episode, we sit down with Dunnie and KT — two former first responders — to talk about what it actually means to stay in control when everything around you is falling apart. This isn't theory. These are hard-won lessons from the frontline.

Suppressing what you feel doesn't make you stronger. It makes you a ticking clock. This conversation is for anyone who's ever been told to harden up — and felt something break inside when they did.

............

Kevin Taylor - former police officer with extensive experience including leadership, civil defence, search and rescue, and foreign postings. He is currently deputy mayor of Taupo.  Husband, dad and grandfather. He brings a wealth of experience. 

Brendon Dunn (Dunnie) - firefighter in Tauranga, mental health advocate within the brigade, and always keen for a yarn. 


#mentalhealth #frontline #firefighter #resilience #podcast #bbq

..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> Tue, 14 Apr 2026 18:00:00 +1200 Forged by the Fire Forged by the Fire 4016 Most people think being tough means not feeling anything. KT and Dunnie spent careers as first responders — and they'll tell you that's exactly wrong.

In this episode, we sit down with Dunnie and KT — two former first responders — to talk about what it actually means to stay in control when everything around you is falling apart. This isn't theory. These are hard-won lessons from the frontline.

Suppressing what you feel doesn't make you stronger. It makes you a ticking clock. This conversation is for anyone who's ever been told to harden up — and felt something break inside when they did.

............

Kevin Taylor - former police officer with extensive experience including leadership, civil defence, search and rescue, and foreign postings. He is currently deputy mayor of Taupo.  Husband, dad and grandfather. He brings a wealth of experience. 

Brendon Dunn (Dunnie) - firefighter in Tauranga, mental health advocate within the brigade, and always keen for a yarn. 


#mentalhealth #frontline #firefighter #resilience #podcast #bbq

..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> resilience, mental health, psychology, sports, frontline workers No Stop giving away your power in your workplace. Episode 12 - Forged by the Fire 12 12 Stop giving away your power in your workplace. Episode 12 - Forged by the Fire full 632d88da-ef1a-4d62-b1eb-aedec86c4f5f https://share.transistor.fm/s/1efbcd3f Toxic workplaces don’t just ruin morale — they slowly take your power if you let them.
In this full conversation, the guys unpack how to deal with a toxic workplace  without losing yourself in the noise. They talk through why people give their power away too easily, how workplace culture shapes behaviour, and what it actually looks like to stay grounded when the environment around you is negative, polarised, or draining.

If you’ve ever worked in a toxic work environment, dealt with workplace politics, or struggled to keep your peace in hard conversations, this episode is for you.

Subscribe for more real conversations on resilience, identity, leadership, and mental strength.

#ToxicWorkplace #WorkplaceCulture #MentalHealth #Leadership #Podcast

Kevin Taylor - former police officer with extensive experience including leadership, civil defence, search and rescue, and foreign postings. He is currently deputy mayor of Taupo.  Husband, dad and grandfather. He brings a wealth of experience. 

Brendon Dunn (Dunny) - firefighter in Tauranga, mental health advocate within the brigade, fun dad, and always keen for a yarn. 

...............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> Toxic workplaces don’t just ruin morale — they slowly take your power if you let them.
In this full conversation, the guys unpack how to deal with a toxic workplace  without losing yourself in the noise. They talk through why people give their power away too easily, how workplace culture shapes behaviour, and what it actually looks like to stay grounded when the environment around you is negative, polarised, or draining.

If you’ve ever worked in a toxic work environment, dealt with workplace politics, or struggled to keep your peace in hard conversations, this episode is for you.

Subscribe for more real conversations on resilience, identity, leadership, and mental strength.

#ToxicWorkplace #WorkplaceCulture #MentalHealth #Leadership #Podcast

Kevin Taylor - former police officer with extensive experience including leadership, civil defence, search and rescue, and foreign postings. He is currently deputy mayor of Taupo.  Husband, dad and grandfather. He brings a wealth of experience. 

Brendon Dunn (Dunny) - firefighter in Tauranga, mental health advocate within the brigade, fun dad, and always keen for a yarn. 

...............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> Tue, 07 Apr 2026 18:00:00 +1200 Forged by the Fire Forged by the Fire 3132 Toxic workplaces don’t just ruin morale — they slowly take your power if you let them.
In this full conversation, the guys unpack how to deal with a toxic workplace  without losing yourself in the noise. They talk through why people give their power away too easily, how workplace culture shapes behaviour, and what it actually looks like to stay grounded when the environment around you is negative, polarised, or draining.

If you’ve ever worked in a toxic work environment, dealt with workplace politics, or struggled to keep your peace in hard conversations, this episode is for you.

Subscribe for more real conversations on resilience, identity, leadership, and mental strength.

#ToxicWorkplace #WorkplaceCulture #MentalHealth #Leadership #Podcast

Kevin Taylor - former police officer with extensive experience including leadership, civil defence, search and rescue, and foreign postings. He is currently deputy mayor of Taupo.  Husband, dad and grandfather. He brings a wealth of experience. 

Brendon Dunn (Dunny) - firefighter in Tauranga, mental health advocate within the brigade, fun dad, and always keen for a yarn. 

...............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> resilience, mental health, psychology, sports, frontline workers No Last Pick to Olympic Gold | Joe Sullivan Pt. 1 - Episode 11 11 11 Last Pick to Olympic Gold | Joe Sullivan Pt. 1 - Episode 11 full 338787ca-2865-499c-a7ae-569f8e7cff05 https://share.transistor.fm/s/4b3637b9 What do you do when you're told you're too short, not good enough, not the right fit?
If you're Joe Sullivan — you go win anyway.
Joe is a World Champion rower and Olympic Gold Medalist in Double Sculls. But long before the gold medal, there was a stubborn, competitive kid who just kept getting overlooked. In Part 1 of his story, we go back to where it all started — picked up rowing in his teens, constantly told no, filling last-minute spots in races… and smashing the competition every single time.
No complaints. No excuses. Just results.
Joe's story is a masterclass in quiet resilience. The kind that doesn't announce itself — it just keeps showing up.

Joe Sullivan - Olympic gold medallist for rowing, two time America's cup winner, Joe is an elite sportsman, firefighter and rowing coach as well as a humble and caring guy. 

#mentalhealth #frontline #firefighter #resilience #podcast #bbq

..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> What do you do when you're told you're too short, not good enough, not the right fit?
If you're Joe Sullivan — you go win anyway.
Joe is a World Champion rower and Olympic Gold Medalist in Double Sculls. But long before the gold medal, there was a stubborn, competitive kid who just kept getting overlooked. In Part 1 of his story, we go back to where it all started — picked up rowing in his teens, constantly told no, filling last-minute spots in races… and smashing the competition every single time.
No complaints. No excuses. Just results.
Joe's story is a masterclass in quiet resilience. The kind that doesn't announce itself — it just keeps showing up.

Joe Sullivan - Olympic gold medallist for rowing, two time America's cup winner, Joe is an elite sportsman, firefighter and rowing coach as well as a humble and caring guy. 

#mentalhealth #frontline #firefighter #resilience #podcast #bbq

..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> Tue, 31 Mar 2026 17:28:30 +1300 Forged by the Fire Forged by the Fire 3852 What do you do when you're told you're too short, not good enough, not the right fit?
If you're Joe Sullivan — you go win anyway.
Joe is a World Champion rower and Olympic Gold Medalist in Double Sculls. But long before the gold medal, there was a stubborn, competitive kid who just kept getting overlooked. In Part 1 of his story, we go back to where it all started — picked up rowing in his teens, constantly told no, filling last-minute spots in races… and smashing the competition every single time.
No complaints. No excuses. Just results.
Joe's story is a masterclass in quiet resilience. The kind that doesn't announce itself — it just keeps showing up.

Joe Sullivan - Olympic gold medallist for rowing, two time America's cup winner, Joe is an elite sportsman, firefighter and rowing coach as well as a humble and caring guy. 

#mentalhealth #frontline #firefighter #resilience #podcast #bbq

..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> resilience, mental health, psychology, sports, frontline workers No Influence. Episode 10 - Forged by the Fire 10 10 Influence. Episode 10 - Forged by the Fire full 880bc183-7e69-4f33-8f89-e29c4785a5c5 https://share.transistor.fm/s/99c8e46e Joel, Joe and Levi unpack influence. 

Joel - ex-firefighter with 8 years experience on the trucks and as a trainer for recruit firefighers. Joel has had a rough journey at times with mental health and life's challenges. He is an awesome guy and an exemplary dad. 

Joe Sullivan - Olympic gold medallist for rowing, two time America's cup winner, Joe is an elite sportsman, firefighter and rowing coach.

#mentalhealth #frontline #firefighter #resilience #podcast #bbq

..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> Joel, Joe and Levi unpack influence. 

Joel - ex-firefighter with 8 years experience on the trucks and as a trainer for recruit firefighers. Joel has had a rough journey at times with mental health and life's challenges. He is an awesome guy and an exemplary dad. 

Joe Sullivan - Olympic gold medallist for rowing, two time America's cup winner, Joe is an elite sportsman, firefighter and rowing coach.

#mentalhealth #frontline #firefighter #resilience #podcast #bbq

..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> Tue, 24 Mar 2026 18:05:35 +1300 Forged by the Fire Forged by the Fire 3329 Joel, Joe and Levi unpack influence. 

Joel - ex-firefighter with 8 years experience on the trucks and as a trainer for recruit firefighers. Joel has had a rough journey at times with mental health and life's challenges. He is an awesome guy and an exemplary dad. 

Joe Sullivan - Olympic gold medallist for rowing, two time America's cup winner, Joe is an elite sportsman, firefighter and rowing coach.

#mentalhealth #frontline #firefighter #resilience #podcast #bbq

..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> resilience, mental health, psychology, sports, frontline workers No Radical Responsibility | The mindset that changes everything - Episode 8 - Forged by the Fire 9 9 Radical Responsibility | The mindset that changes everything - Episode 8 - Forged by the Fire full f2f21762-8fc1-489b-a7a1-c826f547e752 https://share.transistor.fm/s/633e8b64 Joe, Joel and Levi unpack radical responsibility, blame culture, resilience, and what ownership really looks like in frontline work, family life, and everyday mistakes. From station culture to parenting, this conversation explores how taking responsibility can reduce anxiety, strengthen mental resilience, and change the way we lead ourselves and others.

Joel - ex-firefighter with 8 years experience on the trucks and as a trainer for recruit firefighers. Joel has had a rough journey at times with mental health and life's challenges. He is an awesome guy and an exemplary dad. 

Joe Sullivan - Olympic gold medallist for rowing, two time America's cup winner, Joe is an elite sportsman, firefighter and rowing coach.

#mentalhealth #frontline #firefighter #resilience #podcast #bbq

..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> Joe, Joel and Levi unpack radical responsibility, blame culture, resilience, and what ownership really looks like in frontline work, family life, and everyday mistakes. From station culture to parenting, this conversation explores how taking responsibility can reduce anxiety, strengthen mental resilience, and change the way we lead ourselves and others.

Joel - ex-firefighter with 8 years experience on the trucks and as a trainer for recruit firefighers. Joel has had a rough journey at times with mental health and life's challenges. He is an awesome guy and an exemplary dad. 

Joe Sullivan - Olympic gold medallist for rowing, two time America's cup winner, Joe is an elite sportsman, firefighter and rowing coach.

#mentalhealth #frontline #firefighter #resilience #podcast #bbq

..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> Tue, 17 Mar 2026 18:00:00 +1300 Forged by the Fire Forged by the Fire 4458 Joe, Joel and Levi unpack radical responsibility, blame culture, resilience, and what ownership really looks like in frontline work, family life, and everyday mistakes. From station culture to parenting, this conversation explores how taking responsibility can reduce anxiety, strengthen mental resilience, and change the way we lead ourselves and others.

Joel - ex-firefighter with 8 years experience on the trucks and as a trainer for recruit firefighers. Joel has had a rough journey at times with mental health and life's challenges. He is an awesome guy and an exemplary dad. 

Joe Sullivan - Olympic gold medallist for rowing, two time America's cup winner, Joe is an elite sportsman, firefighter and rowing coach.

#mentalhealth #frontline #firefighter #resilience #podcast #bbq

..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> resilience, mental health, psychology, sports, frontline workers No Frontline Mental Health: Isolation, alcohol, identity & not fitting the mould - Episode 8 - Forged by the Fire 8 8 Frontline Mental Health: Isolation, alcohol, identity & not fitting the mould - Episode 8 - Forged by the Fire full d32a357e-d51f-4710-800c-cc08e1979ef1 https://share.transistor.fm/s/fd61e116 A raw and honest conversation with Joel, Geordie and Matt about what mental health really looks like on the frontline. We talk isolation, alcohol, identity, culture, tall poppy syndrome, not fitting the mould, and the habits that can quietly drag people deeper into the trenches.

This one goes deeper than usual. Less banter, more truth — from people who’ve lived it. If you work in emergency services, support someone who does, or just want a real look behind the uniform, this conversation matters.

Joel. ex-firefighter with 8 years experience on the trucks and as a trainer for recruit firefighers. Joel has had a rough journey at time with mental health and life's challenges. He is an awesome guy and an exemplary dad. 

Geordie - firefighter from Hamilton, advocate for normalising mental health conversations, he has a great story. 

Matt - works with St John's ambulance service, now in a manager role supporting staff to bring their best to the service. 

#mentalhealth #frontline #firefighter #resilience #podcast #bbq

..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> A raw and honest conversation with Joel, Geordie and Matt about what mental health really looks like on the frontline. We talk isolation, alcohol, identity, culture, tall poppy syndrome, not fitting the mould, and the habits that can quietly drag people deeper into the trenches.

This one goes deeper than usual. Less banter, more truth — from people who’ve lived it. If you work in emergency services, support someone who does, or just want a real look behind the uniform, this conversation matters.

Joel. ex-firefighter with 8 years experience on the trucks and as a trainer for recruit firefighers. Joel has had a rough journey at time with mental health and life's challenges. He is an awesome guy and an exemplary dad. 

Geordie - firefighter from Hamilton, advocate for normalising mental health conversations, he has a great story. 

Matt - works with St John's ambulance service, now in a manager role supporting staff to bring their best to the service. 

#mentalhealth #frontline #firefighter #resilience #podcast #bbq

..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> Tue, 10 Mar 2026 20:05:07 +1300 Forged by the Fire Forged by the Fire 4133 A raw and honest conversation with Joel, Geordie and Matt about what mental health really looks like on the frontline. We talk isolation, alcohol, identity, culture, tall poppy syndrome, not fitting the mould, and the habits that can quietly drag people deeper into the trenches.

This one goes deeper than usual. Less banter, more truth — from people who’ve lived it. If you work in emergency services, support someone who does, or just want a real look behind the uniform, this conversation matters.

Joel. ex-firefighter with 8 years experience on the trucks and as a trainer for recruit firefighers. Joel has had a rough journey at time with mental health and life's challenges. He is an awesome guy and an exemplary dad. 

Geordie - firefighter from Hamilton, advocate for normalising mental health conversations, he has a great story. 

Matt - works with St John's ambulance service, now in a manager role supporting staff to bring their best to the service. 

#mentalhealth #frontline #firefighter #resilience #podcast #bbq

..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> resilience, mental health, psychology, sports, frontline workers No Resilience: Why it matters. How to develop it. Episode 7 - Forged by the Fire 7 7 Resilience: Why it matters. How to develop it. Episode 7 - Forged by the Fire full 72be5e6d-db7d-4553-853f-8ce42067d117 https://share.transistor.fm/s/fd967e52 Mark gives his presentation created for firefighters on developing resilience. 

Mark O'Conner - firefighter from Rotorua, active and passionate about peer support and an all round great guy

Joe Sullivan - Olympic gold medallist for rowing, two time America's cup winner, Joe is an elite sportsman, firefighter and rowing coach.

#mentalhealth #frontline #firefighter #resilience #bbq

...............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> Mark gives his presentation created for firefighters on developing resilience. 

Mark O'Conner - firefighter from Rotorua, active and passionate about peer support and an all round great guy

Joe Sullivan - Olympic gold medallist for rowing, two time America's cup winner, Joe is an elite sportsman, firefighter and rowing coach.

#mentalhealth #frontline #firefighter #resilience #bbq

...............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> Tue, 03 Mar 2026 17:58:07 +1300 Forged by the Fire Forged by the Fire 3324 Mark gives his presentation created for firefighters on developing resilience. 

Mark O'Conner - firefighter from Rotorua, active and passionate about peer support and an all round great guy

Joe Sullivan - Olympic gold medallist for rowing, two time America's cup winner, Joe is an elite sportsman, firefighter and rowing coach.

#mentalhealth #frontline #firefighter #resilience #bbq

...............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> resilience, mental health, psychology, sports, frontline workers No Banter, trust, belonging: The real recipe for a strong crew - Episode 6 - Forged by the Fire podcast 6 6 Banter, trust, belonging: The real recipe for a strong crew - Episode 6 - Forged by the Fire podcast full f605c917-a758-43e3-a541-ae1472309457 https://share.transistor.fm/s/66bc9dfb Episode 6 - What actually makes a crew feel like family? We talk with Ritchie and Joe to unpack trust, belonging, leadership consistency, and the role of banter in building strong teams. If you’re trying to find your place in a crew—or lead one better—this one’s packed with real-world tools and stories.

Richard (Ritchie) Moreland - Station Officer in Greerton fire station. With 40 years as a firefighter and active in peer support since its conception, Ritchie brings a wealth of experience. 

Joe Sullivan - Olympic gold medallist for rowing, two time America's cup winner, Joe is an elite sportsman, firefighter and rowing coach.

..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> Episode 6 - What actually makes a crew feel like family? We talk with Ritchie and Joe to unpack trust, belonging, leadership consistency, and the role of banter in building strong teams. If you’re trying to find your place in a crew—or lead one better—this one’s packed with real-world tools and stories.

Richard (Ritchie) Moreland - Station Officer in Greerton fire station. With 40 years as a firefighter and active in peer support since its conception, Ritchie brings a wealth of experience. 

Joe Sullivan - Olympic gold medallist for rowing, two time America's cup winner, Joe is an elite sportsman, firefighter and rowing coach.

..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> Tue, 24 Feb 2026 18:00:00 +1300 Forged by the Fire Forged by the Fire 3672 Episode 6 - What actually makes a crew feel like family? We talk with Ritchie and Joe to unpack trust, belonging, leadership consistency, and the role of banter in building strong teams. If you’re trying to find your place in a crew—or lead one better—this one’s packed with real-world tools and stories.

Richard (Ritchie) Moreland - Station Officer in Greerton fire station. With 40 years as a firefighter and active in peer support since its conception, Ritchie brings a wealth of experience. 

Joe Sullivan - Olympic gold medallist for rowing, two time America's cup winner, Joe is an elite sportsman, firefighter and rowing coach.

..............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> resilience, mental health, psychology, sports, frontline workers No Parenting as a first responder. Episode 5 - Forged by the Fire podcast 5 5 Parenting as a first responder. Episode 5 - Forged by the Fire podcast full 339e1768-3736-4d4f-acc2-c3d9b1f66f61 https://share.transistor.fm/s/cd91a1fc Episode 5 - We talk with Dunny and Mark about how they bring their best as a dad while facing many challenges of being a firefighter. Covering shift work, dealing with traumatic work incidents and fatigue, they share openly about the challenges and their strategies for being present with their kids. 

Brendon Dunn (Dunny) - firefighter in Tauranga, mental health advocate within the brigade, and always keen for a yarn. 

Mark O'Conner - firefighter from Rotorua, active and passionate about peer support and an all round great guy

#mentalhealth #frontline #firefighter #parenting  #bbq

...............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> Episode 5 - We talk with Dunny and Mark about how they bring their best as a dad while facing many challenges of being a firefighter. Covering shift work, dealing with traumatic work incidents and fatigue, they share openly about the challenges and their strategies for being present with their kids. 

Brendon Dunn (Dunny) - firefighter in Tauranga, mental health advocate within the brigade, and always keen for a yarn. 

Mark O'Conner - firefighter from Rotorua, active and passionate about peer support and an all round great guy

#mentalhealth #frontline #firefighter #parenting  #bbq

...............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> Thu, 19 Feb 2026 14:50:22 +1300 Forged by the Fire Forged by the Fire 3314 Episode 5 - We talk with Dunny and Mark about how they bring their best as a dad while facing many challenges of being a firefighter. Covering shift work, dealing with traumatic work incidents and fatigue, they share openly about the challenges and their strategies for being present with their kids. 

Brendon Dunn (Dunny) - firefighter in Tauranga, mental health advocate within the brigade, and always keen for a yarn. 

Mark O'Conner - firefighter from Rotorua, active and passionate about peer support and an all round great guy

#mentalhealth #frontline #firefighter #parenting  #bbq

...............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> resilience, mental health, psychology, sports, frontline workers No Checking in with mates - Episode 4 - Forged by the Fire podcast 4 4 Checking in with mates - Episode 4 - Forged by the Fire podcast full 0b73958d-0571-47b7-92e0-e5f48ac12f43 https://share.transistor.fm/s/389d3400 Episode 4 - Dunny, Dan, Ethan and Levi discuss how to reach out to mates to check in on their mental state.

Brendon Dunn (Dunny) - firefighter in Tauranga, mental health advocate within the brigade, and always keen for a yarn. 

Dan Quate - former professional rugby player for the Highlander's and in Japan. Current firefighter in Kauwerau, New Zealand. He has served in his community with youth and is an all round awesome guy. 

Ethan Peeters - firefighter from Hamilton, brother to Levi. 

#mentalhealth #frontline #firefighter #ruok #bbq

...............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> Episode 4 - Dunny, Dan, Ethan and Levi discuss how to reach out to mates to check in on their mental state.

Brendon Dunn (Dunny) - firefighter in Tauranga, mental health advocate within the brigade, and always keen for a yarn. 

Dan Quate - former professional rugby player for the Highlander's and in Japan. Current firefighter in Kauwerau, New Zealand. He has served in his community with youth and is an all round awesome guy. 

Ethan Peeters - firefighter from Hamilton, brother to Levi. 

#mentalhealth #frontline #firefighter #ruok #bbq

...............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> Tue, 10 Feb 2026 18:00:00 +1300 Forged by the Fire Forged by the Fire 3939 Episode 4 - Dunny, Dan, Ethan and Levi discuss how to reach out to mates to check in on their mental state.

Brendon Dunn (Dunny) - firefighter in Tauranga, mental health advocate within the brigade, and always keen for a yarn. 

Dan Quate - former professional rugby player for the Highlander's and in Japan. Current firefighter in Kauwerau, New Zealand. He has served in his community with youth and is an all round awesome guy. 

Ethan Peeters - firefighter from Hamilton, brother to Levi. 

#mentalhealth #frontline #firefighter #ruok #bbq

...............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> resilience, mental health, psychology, sports, frontline workers No Anxiety vs. excitement - Episode 3 - Forged by the Fire podcast 3 3 Anxiety vs. excitement - Episode 3 - Forged by the Fire podcast full 04b18ac0-da15-461a-b3da-f93fa58643e9 https://share.transistor.fm/s/5fd0baa7 Episode 3 - we talk to Dan, Dan and Ethan about anxiety, how perspectives have changed over the years, and how anxiety in the form of anticipation or nervousness can be used to sharpen performance. 

Dan Lusby - property expert and business man

Dan Quate - former professional rugby player for the Highlander's and in Japan. Current firefighter in Kauwerau, New Zealand. He has served in his community with youth and is an all round awesome guy. 

Ethan Peeters - firefighter from Hamilton, brother to Levi. 

#mentalhealth #frontline #firefighter #anxiety #athletes #bbq

...............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> Episode 3 - we talk to Dan, Dan and Ethan about anxiety, how perspectives have changed over the years, and how anxiety in the form of anticipation or nervousness can be used to sharpen performance. 

Dan Lusby - property expert and business man

Dan Quate - former professional rugby player for the Highlander's and in Japan. Current firefighter in Kauwerau, New Zealand. He has served in his community with youth and is an all round awesome guy. 

Ethan Peeters - firefighter from Hamilton, brother to Levi. 

#mentalhealth #frontline #firefighter #anxiety #athletes #bbq

...............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> Tue, 03 Feb 2026 21:14:49 +1300 Forged by the Fire Forged by the Fire 3285 Episode 3 - we talk to Dan, Dan and Ethan about anxiety, how perspectives have changed over the years, and how anxiety in the form of anticipation or nervousness can be used to sharpen performance. 

Dan Lusby - property expert and business man

Dan Quate - former professional rugby player for the Highlander's and in Japan. Current firefighter in Kauwerau, New Zealand. He has served in his community with youth and is an all round awesome guy. 

Ethan Peeters - firefighter from Hamilton, brother to Levi. 

#mentalhealth #frontline #firefighter #anxiety #athletes #bbq

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Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> resilience, mental health, psychology, sports, frontline workers No Identity: the story we write with our life - Episode 2 - Forged by the Fire podcast 2 2 Identity: the story we write with our life - Episode 2 - Forged by the Fire podcast full 0d3c2a93-e5d8-4684-b9b5-1181e0f1c7b3 https://share.transistor.fm/s/b72cf2d9 Episode 2 - We talk with Kevin Taylor, Dan Quate and Ethan about how identity is formed, a healthy approach to comparison and current cultural norms that impact identity. 

Kevin Taylor - former police officer with extensive experience including leadership, civil defence, search and rescue, and foreign postings. He is currently deputy mayor of Taupo.  Husband, dad and grandfather. He brings a wealth of experience. 

Dan Quate - former professional rugby player for the Highlander's and in Japan. Current firefighter in Kauwerau, New Zealand. He has served in his community with youth and is an all round awesome guy. 

Ethan Peeters - firefighter from Hamilton, brother to Levi. 

...............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> Episode 2 - We talk with Kevin Taylor, Dan Quate and Ethan about how identity is formed, a healthy approach to comparison and current cultural norms that impact identity. 

Kevin Taylor - former police officer with extensive experience including leadership, civil defence, search and rescue, and foreign postings. He is currently deputy mayor of Taupo.  Husband, dad and grandfather. He brings a wealth of experience. 

Dan Quate - former professional rugby player for the Highlander's and in Japan. Current firefighter in Kauwerau, New Zealand. He has served in his community with youth and is an all round awesome guy. 

Ethan Peeters - firefighter from Hamilton, brother to Levi. 

...............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> Tue, 27 Jan 2026 18:00:00 +1300 Forged by the Fire Forged by the Fire 2846 Episode 2 - We talk with Kevin Taylor, Dan Quate and Ethan about how identity is formed, a healthy approach to comparison and current cultural norms that impact identity. 

Kevin Taylor - former police officer with extensive experience including leadership, civil defence, search and rescue, and foreign postings. He is currently deputy mayor of Taupo.  Husband, dad and grandfather. He brings a wealth of experience. 

Dan Quate - former professional rugby player for the Highlander's and in Japan. Current firefighter in Kauwerau, New Zealand. He has served in his community with youth and is an all round awesome guy. 

Ethan Peeters - firefighter from Hamilton, brother to Levi. 

...............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> resilience, mental health, psychology, sports, frontline workers No What is mental health? Episode 1 - Forged by the Fire podcast 1 1 What is mental health? Episode 1 - Forged by the Fire podcast full a9880da2-c7e2-4338-a976-592251db9cf6 https://share.transistor.fm/s/50caa2e2 We talk to guest speakers Kevin Taylor and Joe Sullivan about what it means to have positive mental health and how they have achieved this in their lives.

Kevin Taylor - former police officer with extensive experience including leadership, civil defence, search and rescue, and foreign postings. He is currently deputy mayor of Taupo.  Husband, dad and grandfather. He brings a wealth of experience. 

Joe Sullivan - Olympic gold medallist, two time America's cup winner, Joe is an elite sportsman, firefighter and rowing coach.

...............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> We talk to guest speakers Kevin Taylor and Joe Sullivan about what it means to have positive mental health and how they have achieved this in their lives.

Kevin Taylor - former police officer with extensive experience including leadership, civil defence, search and rescue, and foreign postings. He is currently deputy mayor of Taupo.  Husband, dad and grandfather. He brings a wealth of experience. 

Joe Sullivan - Olympic gold medallist, two time America's cup winner, Joe is an elite sportsman, firefighter and rowing coach.

...............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> Tue, 20 Jan 2026 18:15:00 +1300 Forged by the Fire Forged by the Fire 3374 We talk to guest speakers Kevin Taylor and Joe Sullivan about what it means to have positive mental health and how they have achieved this in their lives.

Kevin Taylor - former police officer with extensive experience including leadership, civil defence, search and rescue, and foreign postings. He is currently deputy mayor of Taupo.  Husband, dad and grandfather. He brings a wealth of experience. 

Joe Sullivan - Olympic gold medallist, two time America's cup winner, Joe is an elite sportsman, firefighter and rowing coach.

...............

Forged by the Fire is a podcast built around honest conversations that happen best around a BBQ. It’s where real people sit down, share food, and talk openly about resilience, mental health, identity, and purpose—without filters or fluff.

Hosted by a firefighter studying psychology, the show brings together frontline workers, leaders, athletes, and everyday people who’ve been tested by life. Each episode blends lived experience with practical psychological insight, turning chaos into clarity and struggle into understanding.

Pull up a seat. The BBQ is on.

]]> resilience, mental health, psychology, sports, frontline workers No