SMFR Podcast - Episodes Tagged with “South Metro Fire Rescue”

Chief Chat 2026-Q1: Operations, Strategy, Restructuring

Connor Christian — Thu, 12 Mar 2026 07:30:00 -0600

We’re kicking off the very first episode of our quarterly Chief Chat podcast in Season 3 of the SMFR Podcast. Hosted by Communications Bureau Manager Connor Christian, this quick, conversational episode features Fire Chief John Curtis and Deputy Chief of Operations Jake Mayhew sharing what they’re working on and why it matters.

They break down the big topics:

What strategic priorities are driving this year’s work
What the organizational restructuring actually means for SMFR Personnel
How new leadership roles are improving day‑to‑day operations
Updates on the IST, DOC, and collaborations strengthening our response system
Where things stand with alternate response models, single‑cert paramedics, and committee structure

2026 Re-Accreditation Preparation

Connor Christian — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 07:45:00 -0700

South Metro is actively preparing for re-accreditation in 2026, marking the next step in our ongoing commitment to excellence. Every five years, our department participates in a rigorous and comprehensive accreditation cycle that evaluates every aspect of our organization. This involves everything from strategic planning and community risk reduction to operations, training, and performance outcomes. This process not only strengthens our internal systems and decision-making but also ensures we stay aligned with industry best practices and the evolving needs of the communities we serve. Please join Chief DellOrfano, Kim McAndrews, and Scot Swindall as they discuss the what, how, and why of the accreditation process.

Updated Staffing and Trades Policy & Mandatory Overtime Policy

Connor Christian — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 07:00:00 -0700

Beginning January 1, 2026, a newly updated mandatory overtime policy will go into effect. This was developed over the past year through a collaborative effort between SMFR and Local 2086. The policy gives employees more control over their placement on the mandatory list, simplifies trade and overtime procedures, and clearly defines par numbers across all ranks. We’ll cover the reasons behind the change, the expected impact, and what’s ahead. Guests include Battalion Chief of Administration Mike Burke along with Captain Pierce Jacoway and Engineer Pete Scully from Local 2086.

From NFIRS to NERIS Podcast: What You Need to Know

Connor Christian — Tue, 25 Nov 2025 14:00:00 -0700

Watch or listen in on South Metro's Podcast for important updates about the transition to NERIS (National Emergency Response Information System), which is the modern reporting platform replacing NFIRS. In this episode, we break down what NERIS is, why this matters, commonly asked questions, and how we are preparing for implementation. Stay ahead of the upcoming reporting changes and ensure a smooth transition from NFIRS to NERIS. Guests include Battalion Chief Nick Grosch, Strategic Services Manager Kim McAndrews, Community Risk Reduction Interim Manager Colleen Potton and Lieutenant Jeff Hulley.

Fire Prevention Week 2025: Lithium-Ion Battery Safety

Connor Christian — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 12:00:00 -0600

Check out this special edition SMFR Podcast about Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Safety! SMFR Captain & Hazmat Team Coordinator Chris Wells and Community Risk Reduction Specialist Brandi Miller discuss how Lithium-Ion Batteries (LiB) have become increasingly popular over the last decade due to their large amount of energy, small size, and convenient use in everyday items. Unfortunately, fire and life safety education related to these batteries hasn’t kept up with their popularity until recently. Many consumers and first responders were faced with extreme health risks, injuries, and fatalities due to fires involving LiBs with a lack of information preparing them for how to navigate those challenges. From the first sign of a problem, you may have less than 1 minute to escape a LiB fire! Although the devices that contain these unique batteries improve our lives in many ways, it's important to know how we can prevent fires involving these popular batteries; and if a fire does occur, how we should respond to that emergency. Visit https://www.southmetrocrr.org/ to learn more!

Fire Chief & Deputy Chiefs Updates - Sept. 2025

Connor Christian — Thu, 25 Sep 2025 06:45:00 -0600

Watch or listen in on South Metro's Podcast for the latest updates directly from our Fire Chief and Deputy Chiefs. Hear from each leader in their respective roles as they share insights on their vision, key focus areas, and what’s ahead for the organization.

In this episode, our guests include Fire Chief John Curtis, Deputy Chief of Community Services Kristin Eckmann, Deputy Chief of Internal Services Matt Weller, and Deputy Chief of Operations Jake Mayhew. Stay informed and get an inside look at the priorities and initiatives shaping South Metro Fire Rescue.

Behavioral Health and Wellness Update Podcast

Connor Christian — Fri, 19 Sep 2025 11:00:00 -0600

Watch or listen in on South Metro's Podcast for the latest updates on Behavioral Health and Wellness at SMFR. Deputy Chief of Internal Services Matt Weller introduces our guiding principles and commitment to taking care of our people. You’ll also hear from Interim Health and Wellness Officer Dan Corley, who shares his background, vision, and reassurance that resources and support remain strong. Guests include: Fire Chief John Curtis, Deputy Chief of Community Services Kristin Eckmann, Deputy Chief of Internal Services Matt Weller, Deputy Chief of Operations Jake Mayhew, and Interim Health and Wellness Officer Dan Corley.

Where We're Headed: Financial Outlook and Community Engagement

Connor Christian — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 11:00:00 -0600

Watch or listen in to this special episode of South Metro's Podcast. Hosted by Deputy Chief of Community Services Kristin Eckman, this episode dives into crucial topics around the district’s service delivery, sustainability, and funding challenges. With guests including incoming Fire Chief John Curtis, Board Chair Jim Albee, and representatives from Public Alignment, the conversation centers on upcoming financial pressures, the importance of community input, and the path forward to continue delivering world-class emergency services. This podcast episode also discusses findings from the recent community survey and outlines next steps, including public education efforts and stakeholder engagement.

Introducing the New Fire Ground Operations Manual

Connor Christian — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 15:00:00 -0600

SMFR Division Chief of Operations Mike Mullane and Battalion Chief of Administration Mike Burke unveil the new Fire Ground Operations Manual, addressing past shortcomings and highlighting significant improvements. A SOG Working Group has unified various manuals into one comprehensive document. Key updates include order of arrival assignments and clearer building identification terminology. The manual is set to be released on March 15, 2025.

EMS Rank Structure Reevaluation and Updates

Connor Christian — Mon, 27 Jan 2025 17:00:00 -0700

Watch or listen in on South Metro's Podcast for important updates on the Emergency Medical Services (EMS) rank structure, highlighting its evolution and the need for reevaluation due to growth and challenges. Key topics include recruitment and retention, a reevaluation of the EMS Lieutenant job description and proposed operational changes to enhance efficiency. The importance of self-awareness during these changes is emphasized, along with a call for involvement in future steps.

Guests include Emergency Services Deputy Chief John Curtis, Division Chief of EMS Jens Pietrzyk, Division Chief of Operations Chief Mike Mullane and EMS Lieutenant Dusty King.

2025 Budget Updates, Legislative Impacts and Long Term Planning

Connor Christian — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 12:00:00 -0700

Watch or listen in on South Metro's Podcast for the latest updates on the 2025 budget approval along with important information about legislative impacts and long term budget planning. Podcast topics also include upcoming plans for community engagement through public opinion research and polling in the communities SMFR serves.

Guests include Fire Chief Bob Baker, Deputy Chief of Community Services Kristin Eckmann and Chief Financial Officer Stephanie Corbo.

Division Chiefs Q&A October 2024

Connor Christian — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 15:00:00 -0600

Division Chiefs Richardson, Powell, Mullane and Pietrzyk answer questions that have come in and discuss their roles/share goals within their respective divisions of Line Support, HPO, Operations and EMS. This episode highlights training initiatives, including wellness programs and cognitive performance improvements. New EMS equipment has been implemented to enhance patient care. Staffing models and recruitment strategies are examined, alongside the EMS rank structure.

Questions include:

What are each of you focusing on in your respective divisions?
Would South Metro consider a lateral academy process again?
Is the EMS Rank Structure here to stay? Are there any changes being made?
Why does the dive station staffing model not include a hard staffed 4 divers at each station?

Recent Special Session, HB24B-1001 Legislation & Budget Impacts

Connor Christian — Thu, 26 Sep 2024 17:00:00 -0600

South Metro Fire Rescue discusses the recent Special Session, House Bill 24B-1001 Legislation and its impacts on budget planning. Guests include Fire Chief Bob Baker, Chief Government Affairs Officer Mike Dell’Orfano, Lobbyist Camille Driver & Chief Financial Officer Stephanie Corbo.

Time codes:

:04 Welcome and Introduction
:37 Introduction to Lobbyist Camille Driver
1:45 Updates with the recent special session & legislation
3:54 What is HB24B-1001? What are its impacts?
4:55 Further look at Special Session
6:47 How is legislation impacting SMFR’s budget planning and revenue?
8:15 Future impacts to SMFR and personnel
9:20 Plans and strategy ahead for funding needs
9:45 Looking ahead to 2025
11:28 Conclusion and recap

SMFR Finance and Budget Process

Connor Christian — Thu, 02 May 2024 12:00:00 -0600

In this episode, we dive into the budget process, including strategy, timeline, process and how the political landscape plays a role in the process. We discuss how we got to where we are today, and where we are going in the future. Chief Kristin Eckmann hosts this podcast, with Deputy Chief Matt Weller and CFO Dillion Miskimins.

Timecode
0:06 Chief Eckmann Introduction- Setting the stage
0:45 Chief Eckmann- Planning the 2024 budget brought a lot of variables
1:07 Dillon explains what the 2024 budget process entailed and how we got to where we are today
1:40 Political landscape and bills impact on budget process
2:05 Proposition HH
3:45 Timing and impact of legislation while budget planning
5:30 Different scenarios in budget process
6:35 How 2024 budget planning was different then years past
7:30 Adoption of 2024 budget and what it included
9:03 Initiatives that were priority- cardiac screenings, capital projects plan,
10:08 Capital projects plan including cardiac monitors, Station 15 rebuild, facility improvements, apparatus replacements
10:32 Chief Weller talks about why cardiac screenings became a priority and how SMFR has started that
12:35 Station visits and identifying capital improvements needed
15:48 Process and importance of backfill in the budget
20:25 Dillion explains process and timeline for 2025 budget
25:40 Long-term budget planning and management
29:30 Closing remarks

STEM Five Years Later

Connor Christian — Thu, 02 May 2024 11:45:00 -0600

We are looking back at a devastating incident that occurred in our fire district 5 years ago. On May 7th 2019, the STEM School Shooting forever impacted the community we serve and the South Metro individuals who were involved in the response. We are reflecting on the events that occurred that day, but also discussing what has changed in our organization and training model since then to prepare for the future.

SOG Revison Project & Rollout

Connor Christian — Thu, 05 Oct 2023 15:00:00 -0600

After several unifications over the years and combining many different forms of fire department operations, episode four of South Metro's Around the Kitchen Table Podcast focuses on the project to revise, revamp and rollout updated versions of SMFR's Standard Operating Guidelines (SOGs) with safety at the forefront. In this 30 minute episode, you will hear from Division Chief of Operations Jeff Tasker, Battalion Chief of Administration Mike Burke and Deputy Chief of Emergency Services John Curtis.

Time Codes:

:40 Chief Curtis Introduction - origin, focus and direction of the SOG Revision Project
4:00 Introductions from Chief Tasker and Chief Burke - setting the stage
6:20 Background on rotational position assignment for Chief Burke
7:00 Started with evaluating SOGs - applying to critical factors & tasks, along with decision making support
11:07 Importance of support and empowerment for critical thinking
12:28 Workflow and new format of revised SOGs. Written with a purpose - input received from subject matter experts and approved by Chiefs at all levels
15:00 Staging the rollout, color coding
17:20 Collaborative approach with the project
20:25 Kudos from Chief Tasker
20:50 Kudos from Chief Burke
21:10 Importance of passing along lessons learned and experience to younger generations in the fire service and supporting those promoting in rank
23:10 Other updates from Chief Curtis - budget process and philosophy, legislation, State of the District (PACE acronym), academy plans for 2024
27:28 Closing Remarks

Let's Talk Bunker Gear & First Due Fires

Connor Christian — Wed, 07 Jun 2023 14:00:00 -0600

We're taking the national conversation about Per- and Polyfluorinated Substances (PFAS) local on episode three of South Metro’s Around the Kitchen Table Podcast. You'll also hear some tailboard talk about first due fires in Station 21s district. This episode features insight from A shift Lieutenant Nick Bjork and C shift Firefighter Paramedic Meghan Pudliner, both operating out of Station 21, along with Deputy Chief of Emergency Services John Curtis.

Time Codes:

1: Introduction/Chief Curtis covers PFAS Overview, SMFR Cancer Policy, single layer bunker gear thought process, IAFF Film BURNED
10: Lt. Bjork covers history of bunker gear at SMFR, what has changed/stayed the same, current status, line conversation about gear
22: FF Paramedic Pudliner covers background details on the SMFR Wear Study, traveling to bunker gear vendors around the country, takeaways from those visits
28:15: Single layer timeframe
32: Cultural shifts impacting how gear is utilized
38:12: Rumors to truths - PFAS is not just in the fire service
40:30: Breathability of gear
42: Fact sheets from GoreTex (Linked below)
43:50: Other background information from FF Paramedic Pudliner and importance of utilizing both sets of bunker gear
47:40: Changes seen with hoods and gloves
52:40: Cleaning expectations for bunker gear
53:50: Lt. Bjork goes through AAR of first due fires in 21s district
1:09:50: Closing Remarks

CLICK HERE for educational resources from Gore's website, the manufacturer of SMFR's moisture barrier.

The Three DCs - Consistency across A, B and C shifts

Connor Christian — Fri, 17 Feb 2023 10:00:00 -0700

Listen in to episode two of South Metro’s newest podcast season Around the Kitchen Table as District Chiefs Jake Mayhew, Scott Sarver and Dave Mueller talk about where their focus is for 2023 and what goals are ahead. Roundtable topics include DC initiatives, communications, safety, efficiency, leadership, consistency and more across A, B and C shifts. Division Chief of Emergency Services John Curtis also talks through some rumors to truths along with various other important discussion points.

Around the Kitchen Table Podcast Launch

Connor Christian — Thu, 12 Jan 2023 15:00:00 -0700

It is a common saying in the fire service that the world’s problems can be solved around the kitchen table. Whether that be a tool for teaching, sharing lessons learned, diving down “what if” rabbit holes or just gathering to share a meal and getting to know those around you. With this new podcast season, we want to bring the kitchen table talk of South Metro to you as we navigate through key topics, rumors to truths along with projects and initiatives going on in our organization and specifically in Emergency Services.

In this episode we are talking with Deputy Chief of Emergency Services John Curtis, Operations Chief Jeff Tasker, Division Chief of EMS Jens Pietrzyk, Division Chief of Line Support Scott Richardson and Division Chief of Human Performance and Optimization Andy Powell.

Episode 6: What's Next? - Finance, Facilities & Capital Improvement Projects

Connor Christian — Wed, 14 Dec 2022 15:00:00 -0700

Our organization has grown a lot over the years. In order to stay up to date with that change and growth, we are always looking towards ways we can improve and keep up with the demands of our fire department. SMFR Communications is excited to bring you our latest podcast episode focused on multiple important areas of our organization – Finance, Facilities and Capital Improvement Projects.

Join Chief Financial Officer Dillon Miskimins, Chief Kevin Milan, and Facilities Director Randy Nejbauer on Episode 6 of the SMFR Podcast.

Click the image below to listen in on the conversation!

Episode 6 Topics & Time Codes:

:25 - Opening and Introduction
1:38 - Dillon discusses 10 year capital improvement plan
4:22 - Chief Milan discusses focus for capital improvement projects
7:45 - Station 15 construction plans
10:11 - Needs for other stations
12:00 - Health and wellness initiatives in stations
14:21 - Randy discusses sleep study initiative, construction changes in/around stations & facilities updates
18:30 - Takeaways from sleep study (Station 23)
20:16 - Findings from Station 35, future plans
22:39 - JSF updates
24:34 - TJTC updates
25:36 - Training needs assessment
26:43 - Memorial for Chief Jackson at TJTC
27:49 - Plans for Mineral HQ
32:55 - Process for considering/prioritizing capital projects
34:54 - Financial demand for hiring - juggling retirements, new employees and academies planned ahead
36:49 - Budget cycle, timeline and process
38:28 - Security updates at facilities
41:30 - Fun fact and closing

Episode 5: Organizational Restructuring - 3 Deputy Chief Model

Connor Christian — Thu, 13 Oct 2022 13:45:00 -0600

In recent months, South Metro has experienced a lot of change with an organizational restructuring of our fire department and the introduction of a three deputy chief model. This has been on everyone’s minds and that's why Episode 5 of the SMFR Podcast is focused on the vision and direction of this new model. Tune in to hear Episode 5 featuring SMFR's Fire Chief, Chief Baker, along with our three deputy chiefs – John Curtis, Jon Adams and Kristin Eckmann.