Fireside America with Ryan Robbins
Fireside America with Ryan Robbins

Fireside America with Ryan Robbins

Fireside America

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Episodes

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Pull up a chair and enter the minds of America‘s entrepreneurs with finance entrepreneur Ryan Robbins around his Point Pleasant, New Jersey backyard fire pit.

Recent Episodes

Police Officer's Fight for Justice: The Salvatore Story | Barbara & Drew Oldrati | Ep 110
FEB 8, 2025
Police Officer's Fight for Justice: The Salvatore Story | Barbara & Drew Oldrati | Ep 110

In this powerful episode of the Fireside America Podcast, host Ryan Robbins sits down with Drew and his wife—a SWAT officer and a schoolteacher—who share a deeply personal story about their son, Salvatore. A young police officer in New Jersey, Salvatore answered a frantic 911 call that led to a fatal encounter with a reportedly armed homeowner. Initially cleared by the Attorney General’s shooting response team, he was later indicted nearly two years after the incident, when a new AG administration reopened the case.

Drawing upon bodycam footage, the homeowner’s 911 call, and statements from the family, Drew and his wife shed light on the critical evidence that was withheld from the grand jury—evidence suggesting Salvatore acted within the bounds of reasonable force.What unfolds is a broader discussion of how political climates, media narratives, and changing leadership can thrust law enforcement officers into legal jeopardy—sometimes without all the facts.

With Salvatore now fighting for his freedom and future, his parents bring a passionate plea for transparency, accountability, and support for police who find themselves in impossible, life-threatening situations. Whether you’re a member of law enforcement, a concerned citizen, or simply an advocate for civil liberties, this episode offers an unfiltered look at how swiftly lives can be upended in the line of duty—and why this case has implications for all Americans.


Timestamps:

• (0:00) Who Is Salvatore?– His lifelong dream to be a “cop’s cop” and how he dedicated himself to training.

• (06:00) The Night of the Incident– A frantic 911 call, a homeowner with a gun, and the split-second decision no officer wants to make.

• (15:00) The Aftermath– Attorney General’s initial clearance vs. new AG reopening the case.

• (23:00) Potential ‘Suicide by Cop’?– Evidence and statements from the ex-wife suggesting the homeowner had a history of suicidal behavior.

• (30:00) The Indictment & Grand Jury– How critical evidence was reportedly withheld, leading to a controversial indictment. • (37:00) Personal Toll on Salvatore– Losing income, benefits, and the emotional weight on his young family.

• (45:00) Larger Issue: Policing Under Fire– Why this case sets a dangerous precedent for all law enforcement.

• (55:00) Parents’ Plea to the AG– “Look at the facts, not the feelings,” and do what’s right.

• (1:05:00) Ways You Can Help– Legal defense fund link, how to contact legislators, and raising awareness.

• (1:10:00) Final Thoughts– Restoring respect for police and the fight for freedom in America.

Instagram:

IG: @Ryandrobbins

IG: @bricci0304

Support for SalvatoreOldrati:

https://www.givesendgo.com/SupportforCplOldrati


More Links:https://stan.store/Ryanrobbins

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97 MIN
Why High-Quality Food is Non-Negotiable for This NJ Pizzeria Owner | Kris Black | FAP EP 109
JAN 30, 2025
Why High-Quality Food is Non-Negotiable for This NJ Pizzeria Owner | Kris Black | FAP EP 109

In this episode, Ryan Robbins sits down with Kris Black, the passionate owner of a beloved NJ pizzeria known for its mouthwatering cheesesteaks, burgers, and Detroit-style pizza. Kris shares why high-quality ingredients and consistency are the backbone of his success—and how he’s built a loyal customer base by refusing to cut corners.

Kris opens up about:

  • The importance of quality: Why he sources the best ingredients, even when it means higher costs.

  • Building a loyal following: How word-of-mouth and customer trust have fueled his business.

  • Surviving COVID: Adapting to challenges while staying true to his commitment to quality.

  • Fatherhood and hustle: Balancing a thriving business with raising four kids and staying grounded.

He also dives into:
🔥 The secret to great food: Why consistency and attention to detail matter more than trends.
🔥 Dealing with tough customers: How he handles complaints while keeping his staff and values intact.
🔥 The future of his business: Expanding the menu, staying true to his roots, and giving back to the community.

Whether you’re a foodie, small business owner, or just love a good underdog story, this episode is packed with practical advice, heartfelt moments, and a reminder that quality always wins.

(00:00) Intro: Kris’s Commitment to High-Quality Food
(08:00) From Landscaping to Pizza Boss: Kris’s Unconventional Journey
(15:00) Why Quality Ingredients Are Non-Negotiable
(22:00) Building a Loyal Customer Base: Word-of-Mouth & Trust
(28:00) Surviving COVID: Adapting Without Compromising Quality
(34:00) Fatherhood & Hustle: Balancing Family and Business
(40:00) The Secret to Great Food: Consistency & Attention to Detail
(47:00) Dealing with Tough Customers: “We Fix Mistakes, But Respect is Key”
(53:00) The Future of the Business: Expanding the Menu & Staying True to His Roots
(58:00) Final Advice: “Quality Always Wins—Never Cut Corners”

Condensed Timestamps (10 Key Segments)


Ryan Robbins: @Ryandrobbins Kris Black: @thegalleyap @fv_fishstix APPLY TO BE A GUEST!: https://ryandrobbins.com/fireside-chats/ MORE LINKS: https://linktr.ee/ryanrobbins WATCH MORE HERE ↓ https://youtu.be/z3yfM44BOFg?si=r0JyCOAaT8ALf64x

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67 MIN
The Lies of the Education System | Nick Aldiero | FAP EP 108
JAN 23, 2025
The Lies of the Education System | Nick Aldiero | FAP EP 108

In this episode, Ryan sits down with basketball skills coach and former public school teacher, Nick Aldiero, who shares why he decided to leave the classroom for the court. Nick opens up about the frustrations of a system that rewards tenure over excellence, and how he realized he had more to offer young athletes than just grading papers and enforcing lunch duties. Determined to build a small business around his passion for skill development, Nick hired a mentor to guide him through sales, marketing, and the transition away from one-size-fits-all teaching. Now, he runs group programs for first through ninth graders, focusing on fundamentals, footwork, and fostering confidence on and off the court.

Nick’s journey is a testament to the power of investing in yourself. From the initial sticker shock of business coaching to the hurdles of finding gym space during COVID, he learned that entrepreneurial success often comes down to setting standards—and holding both yourself and your clients to them. If you’ve ever felt boxed in by a day job or wondered how to transform a personal passion into a community-impacting business, tune in for Nick’s honest take on letting drive and determination pave a new path.

Timestamps:


(00:00) Kobe’s Influence & Champion Mindset

(04:00) Leaving Teaching: The Spark of Frustration

(08:00) Building a Small Business in Hoops

(11:00) Hiring a Coach for Coaching

(13:00) Moving to Group Sessions & Growing Fast

(15:00) Education System Flaws & COVID Challenges

(19:00) Adopting Non-Negotiable Standards

(22:00) Navigating Family Doubts & Pension Fears

(25:00) Methods for Player Development

(28:00) Final Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs


Socials and Sites:

RYAN’S INSTAGRAM: @ryandrobbins

NICK'S INSTAGRAM: @coach_aldiero

↓ GET IN MY CIRCLE ↓

APPLY TO BE A GUEST!: https://ryandrobbins.com/fireside-chats/

MORE LINKS: https://linktr.ee/ryanrobbins


↓ WATCH MORE HERE ↓

https://youtu.be/z3yfM44BOFg?si=r0JyCOAaT8ALf64x

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33 MIN
Embracing Hands-On Hustle & Welding Your Own Path | Matt Viken | FAP EP 107
JAN 2, 2025
Embracing Hands-On Hustle & Welding Your Own Path | Matt Viken | FAP EP 107

In this episode, Ryan sits down with Matt, a young entrepreneur whose journey proves that a high tolerance for risk and a flair for metalwork can forge a successful business. From finding his passion for welding in vocational school to jumping headfirst into the competitive heavy-equipment repair market, Matt’s story highlights the value of practical, on-the-job skills. He discusses the moment he realized a traditional 9-to-5 was not for him, the grit required to stay afloat in his early days, and how tailoring his craft for niche jobs like line boring and heavy fabrication helped him carve out a profitable niche of his own. Whether you’re a trade-school enthusiast or an aspiring small business owner, Matt’s candid take on striking out independently will resonate. Tune in for real talk on making the leap, building robust client relationships, balancing passion with financial realities, and learning how to turn mistakes into empowering lessons. If you’ve ever wondered whether you can turn a hands-on talent into your life’s work—and thrive doing it—this conversation is your spark to weld your own path in the world of small business. Timestamps: (00:00) Learning Welding & Embracing Non-Traditional Paths (06:00) Breaking Out of the 9-to-5 Grind (10:00) Taking the Leap & Finding Startup Funding (13:00) Early Challenges: Clients, Calls, & Confidence (18:00) Line Boring Explained: Fixing Heavy Machinery On-Site (22:00) Big Repairs & Unexpected Opportunities (25:00) Balancing Specialized Work vs. Paying the Bills (27:00) Owning Mistakes & Adapting in Business (29:00) Advice for Vocational Students & Aspiring Entrepreneurs (31:00) Putting It All Together: Welding Your Own Freedom RYAN’S INSTAGRAM:  @ryandrobbins  ↓ GET IN MY CIRCLE ↓ APPLY TO BE A GUEST!: https://ryandrobbins.com/fireside-chats/ JOIN THE PIT (ONLY $147/MONTH!): https://go.ryandrobbins.com/join APPLY FOR 1-ON-1 COACHING: https://ryandrobbins.com/coaching/ MORE LINKS: https://linktr.ee/ryanrobbins ↓WATCH MORE HERE ↓ https://youtu.be/z3yfM44BOFg?si=r0JyCOAaT8ALf64x

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32 MIN
Finding Your Brand’s True Voice | Carly Olson | FAP EP 106
DEC 19, 2024
Finding Your Brand’s True Voice | Carly Olson | FAP EP 106

In this candid conversation, Carly Olson shares her transformative journey from a structured upbringing and a traditional corporate career to boldly embracing the entrepreneurial path.


We unpack how stepping into uncomfortable territories and opening up to vulnerability can drastically shift your personal and professional landscape. From navigating the uncertainty of leaving a stable job to discovering the power of authenticity in branding and marketing, Carly’s story offers a roadmap for anyone craving freedom, growth, and genuine connection.


Join us as we delve into the delicate balance of independent thinking, the importance of seeking help, and how embracing both masculine and feminine strengths in business leads to impactful, lasting change.


Timestamps:

1. (00:00) Balancing Masculine & Feminine Energy in Business

2. (06:00) Childhood Expectations & Building Independence

3. (13:00) Stepping Out of Comfort Zones & Studying Abroad

4. (21:00) Challenging Corporate Norms & Embracing Freedom

5. (29:00) Pandemic Pressures, Mandates & Independent Thought

6. (38:00) Finding Community & Support Through Networks

7. (45:00) Taking the Leap: From Corporate to Self-Employed

8. (54:00) Identifying Brand Blind Spots & Authentic Storytelling

9. (1:05:00) Vulnerability as a Catalyst for Growth & Connection

10. (1:18:00) Life’s Shortness: Choosing Faith, Peace & Purpose


Socials and Sites:


CARLY OLSON INSTAGRAM: @countrybombshell


CARLY’S WEBSITE: http://www.marketdivergent.com/


RYAN’S INSTAGRAM: @ryandrobbins


↓ GET IN MY CIRCLE ↓


APPLY TO BE A GUEST!: https://ryandrobbins.com/fireside-chats/


APPLY FOR 1-ON-1 COACHING: https://ryandrobbins.com/coaching/


MORE LINKS: https://linktr.ee/ryanrobbins


WATCH MORE HERE ↓

https://youtu.be/z3yfM44BOFg?si=r0JyCOAaT8ALf64x

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95 MIN