The Ringdown Podcast

What makes the perfect candidate for the fire service?It’s not just about being physically fit or having the right experience. It’s about mindset, preparation, integrity, and being willing to learn.In this episode of The Ringdown Podcast, PIO Hope Escobar and Battalion Chief of Training Rhett Fleitz interview Captain Focht and Captain Metro to break down what we’re looking for in our next generation of firefighters and what candidates can do to put themselves in the best position to succeed.If you’re interested in joining our team, visit roanokefireems.com for more information.Follow Roanoke Fire-EMS on Facebook and Instagram for recruitment updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more.#firefighter #recruit #pat #training #emt #mindset #motivation #roanoke

Every firefighter has a story, and for Firefighter/EMT Majors, it’s one built on hard work, passion, and bringing a smile to every shift. In this episode, Majors shares his story into the fire service, what inspires him to give 100% every day, and how showing up makes a difference in the community. Never miss an episode! Don’t forget to subscribe and follow us on your favorite social media platform @roanokefireems 

Not every emergency ends when the call is cleared. In this episode, we sit down with Cynthia Haley, a Peer Recovery Specialist, to talk about how she responds alongside Roanoke Fire-EMS crews to help connect people battling addiction with recovery resources and a second chance through the Hope Initiative. Never miss an episode! Don’t forget to subscribe and follow us on your favorite social media platform @roanokefireems

Behind every first responder is a reason why they do what they do every day. In this episode of The Ringdown, we hear from Paramedic Trombley and Rescue Supervisor Lieutenant Boettner as they share their experiences in leadership, teamwork, and what it means to answer the call. Never miss an episode! Don’t forget to subscribe and follow us on your favorite social media platform @roanokefireems

Join us for a conversation with Firefighter/EMTs Lasek andFritsch from Station 5 on the Northside of the City of Roanoke. These two leaders take pride in the signature behind their work and show up every day as the type of first responders they would want to show up for their family.  They share what it means to carry on the tradition of aggressive firefighting in Roanoke, how they stay motivated, and why showing up with care and purpose matters on every call. Whether you are in the fire service or just want to hear what fuels real dedication, this one’s for you!Check us out on your favorite social media app @roanokefireems for more behind the scenes, safety tips, and firefighter features!

This week, we’re turning up the heat with a behind-the-scenes look at the Roanoke Fire Marshal’s Office! From fire investigations to safety inspections and community education, learn how this dedicated team keeps our City safe every day.🔥

In this episode of the Ringdown Podcast, we sit down with Lieutenant Hall and Lieutenant Metro for a powerful conversation about GRIT—what it means, why it matters, and how it fuels success in fire service. They explore the mental and physical toughness required to thrive on the job, offering real-world insight into staying strong in the face of adversity. Whether you're a seasoned firefighter or an aspiring recruit, you'll want to hear their tips on preparing for the Physical Agility Test (PAT) and strategies for building resilience on and off the fire ground. This episode is all about pushing through, showing up, and staying ready—because in this career, grit makes the difference.

In this episode of The Ringdown Podcast, hosts Hope Escobar and Casey Fury take you inside the Roanoke Fire & EMS Training Center to explore what it takes to be part of an aggressive and progressive fire department.  From the intense recruit school experience to ongoing incumbent training, our guests Chief Fleitz and Captain Focht break down how Roanoke Fire-EMS ensures its firefighters are always ready for the next call. Hear firsthand from the leaders shaping the next generation and learn what sets this department apart when it comes to preparation, performance, and pushing the limits.  Whether you're in the fire service or just curious about the grit and grind behind the job, this is one episode you don’t want to miss!

What happens behind the scenes when disaster strikes? In this episode of The Ringdown Podcast, we’re taking you inside Emergency Management and Specialty Teams at Roanoke Fire-EMS! Join us as we sit down with Chief Trevor Shannon, Battalion Chief of Emergency Management, and Firefighter/EMT Todd Whalen to explore how Roanoke prepares for and responds to large-scale emergencies. From swift water rescues to hazmat operations, they break down the vital role of Emergency Management in keeping both espondersand the community safe. Beyond the emergencies, we also dive into the brotherhood and support system that comes with being part of our team. Whether it’s on the front lines or behind the scenes, Roanoke Fire-EMS is a family that always has each other’s backs. Don’t miss this inside look at what it takes to protect our City!  Rate, subscribe, and follow @roanokefireems on Facebook and Instagram to stay connected!

In our first episode, “Answering the Call to Lead,” we sit down with Chief David Hoback and Deputy Chief Andy Foley to discuss leadership, service, and the history of the department. Chief Hoback shares his journey that started in 1980 when he was a volunteer at Roanoke Life Saving Crew. Now Chief of Roanoke Fire-EMS, he shares stories of his mentors and experiences, offering insights on his experience as a leader in the fire service.Deputy Chief Foley shares his experience coming up through the department, highlighting how things have changed and grown over the years to meet the needs of the community. With experience serving on the North and South side of the City, his passion for learning and helping others succeed is evident as he talks about challenges that come with the job, as well as how to overcome those hurdles.Join your hosts Firefighter/Paramedic Casey Fury and PIO Hope Escobar as they explore the stories behind the sirens and what it truly means to answer the call.Follow the Ringdown Podcast for more episodes featuring the people and the moments that shape Roanoke Fire-EMS.Follow Roanoke Fire-EMS on Facebook and Instagram for behind-the-scenes content, incident highlights, and more!