Station Talk

On this episode, Nick & Tom are honored to sit down with Dennis Reilly, a retired Fire Chief with 50 years of fire service experience. Dennis shares hard-earned insights on leadership, human performance in high-threat environments, training, and fireground operations. Drawing from decades of service across multiple generations of firefighters, this conversation goes beyond tactics to explore mindset, team dynamics under stress, and what it truly means to lead when the stakes are high. No matter where you are in your career—probie, senior firefighter, or officer—this episode delivers perspective you can apply on and off the fireground.About - First Line Fire Service Training

This special episode of Station Talk marks the first collaboration between The Firehouse Tribune and the 5-Alarm Task Force. We are honored to re-release episodes from the 5-Alarm Task Force on our platform in recognition of the legacy, dedication, and impact of our great friend, Steve Greene—the longtime host and driving force behind the show. This collaboration stands as a tribute to Steve’s commitment to the fire service and the conversations that continue to shape it.

On this episode, we are joined by Battalion Chief Danny Arroyo from the Perth Amboy Fire Department. Danny also serves as Chief of Training, Chair of the New Jersey FMBA Education and Training Committee, works with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, and runs Fire Training and Consultants LLC. We dive into training, leadership, and tactics, and more importantly how those things actually affect firefighters on scene.Fire Training & ConsultantsNational Fallen Firefighters Foundation

On this episode, we are joined by Fire Chief Kris Childress of the Keowee Fire District in South Carolina. With 16 years in the fire service, Kris has built his career around leadership, mentoring, and maximizing performance in small departments. As one of the youngest chiefs in his area, he brings a fresh yet grounded perspective on leading from the front, building trust within a team, and navigating the challenges that come with limited staffing and resources. We discuss leadership, mentorship, and what it takes to keep small departments strong and effective.

On this episode we’re joined by Firefighter Christopher Whyte from the Elizabeth Fire Department, who also serves as the CISM Team Coordinator for the New Jersey FMBA. With over 16 years in the fire service, including both volunteer and career experience, Chris brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for firefighter education and growth. He’s also the creator of Garden State Size Up, a platform dedicated to promoting fireground awareness, training, and leadership throughout New Jersey. We sat down to talk about his work, the importance of size-up, and how firefighters can sharpen their decision-making on the job.