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Forged In The Fires Podcast with Fireman Rob

Forged In The Fires Podcast with Fireman Rob

By Robert "Fireman Rob" Verhelst

Powerful, impactful, inspiring and entertaining. The Forged In The Fires podcast will tell stories from individuals to motivate and inspire you to find your truest potential. While also giving you catalysts to fire up your life. The catalyst behind the fires is your host, Fireman Rob.

Fireman Rob is a career firefighter, United States Air Force Veteran, worked search and recovery after 9/11 WTC attacks, Discovery Channel Reality Star, World Record Holder and most importantly father and husband.

Don't just listen to Forged In The Fires Podcast...Learn and Live the catalysts in your life.
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Episode 90 - From the Forged In The Fires Desk of Fireman Rob "OWNERSHIP"

Forged In The Fires Podcast with Fireman Rob May 29, 2021

00:00
04:25
Episode 279 - From the Forged In The Fires Desk of Fireman Rob "REALITY TESTING"

Episode 279 - From the Forged In The Fires Desk of Fireman Rob "REALITY TESTING"

This episode has been published and can be heard everywhere your podcast is available.


These episodes will be short impact information podcasts on one of the different seven catalysts or a sub catalyst, that I have used in my life to move forward, push the limits of possible and find myself.


This week's Topic: REALITY TESTING


"Reality testing keeps us grounded in truth and prevents self-deception."


For more information on Fireman Rob or the 7 Catalysts go to www.FiremanRob.com.


Mar 25, 202403:03
Episode 278 - Forged in the Fires Guest - Jem Fuller
Mar 21, 202432:27
Episode 277 - From the Forged In The Fires Desk of Fireman Rob "MENTAL STRENGTH"
Mar 18, 202403:12
Episode 276 - Forged in the Fires Guest - Cyrus Rustom

Episode 276 - Forged in the Fires Guest - Cyrus Rustom

In this episode, we dive into the extraordinary life of Cyrus, a former Elite Royal Marines Commando whose journey is as inspiring as it is thrilling. Cyrus's story begins with his five years of service in the Elite Royal Marines, including a pivotal tour in Afghanistan in 2006. There, he faced a life-threatening incident that nearly cost him everything but also set the stage for an incredible comeback.

After his military service, Cyrus channeled his resilience and discipline into a flourishing career in the fitness industry. He established two successful fitness facilities in his hometown of Dubai, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to health and wellness. Beyond running these facilities, Cyrus is deeply passionate about coaching others in mindset, discipline, fitness, and nutrition.

Remarkably, Cyrus's current business venture, started during the challenging times of COVID-19, has defied the odds. Not only has it survived, but it has also thrived, now generating over $1,000,000 a year in revenue. This achievement underscores his exceptional ability to adapt and succeed, even under the most challenging circumstances.

In addition to his entrepreneurial endeavors, Cyrus has been working for the Royal Family in Dubai, UAE, for 8 years, further testament to his diverse skills and esteemed reputation.

Join us in this episode as we explore Cyrus's journey from the front lines of Afghanistan to the forefront of the fitness and entrepreneurial world in Dubai. We'll delve into his life experiences, the lessons he's learned, and the wisdom he imparts to those he coaches and mentors.

Find out more at https://www.instagram.com/coachcyrus/

Mar 14, 202436:19
Episode 275 - From the Forged In The Fires Desk of Fireman Rob "OPTIMISM"
Mar 11, 202403:12
Episode 274 - Forged in the Fires Guest - Daniel Sundahl

Episode 274 - Forged in the Fires Guest - Daniel Sundahl

Daniel Sundahl (DanSun) is a published artist and writer with four (4) art books produced of his works. Articles of his work are featured in Canadian Paramedicine, Journal of Emergency Medicine (JEMS), Fire Rescue Magazine, EMS One, EMS World Magazine, The Canadian Journal of Emergency Nursing and the Finnish magazine Asystole. His art is recognized worldwide, and he travels internationally, speaking about his art and personal experiences with occupational stress injuries and post-traumatic growth. He is an advanced care paramedic, pre-hospital educator, a retired firefighter, photographer and photo editor. Daniel is currently a counselling therapy student in a two-year program graduating in 2024.


Daniel was born in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Taking up a global residency as an English language teacher in Egypt, Mexico, Indonesia and Japan, he now works full-time as an artist, photo editor and public speaker. Daniel became a full-time paramedic and firefighter in 2003 and retired from his full-time position in 2022. He is now enrolled in a two-year counselling therapist program and will graduate in 2024 as a registered counselling therapist with the Canadian Professional Counselling Association.


His love of photography began during his travels, and as his technique developed, he produced a blend of photography and graphic art, which he calls Photo Art. The majority of Daniel's work involves emergency services photography. It comprises an emotional connection to the artist as most of his pieces are based on actual emergency calls he has attended as a paramedic and firefighter. He is passionate about reducing the stigma of PTSD for first responders and uses his art to raise awareness of occupational stress injuries worldwide. Daniel enjoys combining the technical and artistic elements of his work. Each piece can take several days or weeks of processing until he feels it is ready. First Responders' mental wellness initiatives were initiated after visiting his peers in Australia, Finland, and Mississippi. Daniel often travels and gains inspiration for his art from his experiences. Find out more at https://www.dansunphotos.com/

Mar 07, 202437:13
Episode 273- From the Forged In The Fires Desk of Fireman Rob "RESILIENCE"
Mar 04, 202403:11
Episode 272 - Forged in the Fires Guest - Sandra Younger
Feb 29, 202432:27
Episode 271 - From the Forged In The Fires Desk of Fireman Rob "EMOTIONAL CONTROL"
Feb 26, 202403:13
Episode 270 - Forged in the Fires Guest - Vickie Speed

Episode 270 - Forged in the Fires Guest - Vickie Speed

In this compelling episode of our podcast, we spotlight Vickie Speed, the inspirational CEO of Blue Cancer Connect. Vickie's story is one of resilience and dedication, born from personal tragedy. After the loss of her husband, Detective Mitch Speed of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, to job-related cancer, Vickie has turned her grief into action. Her mission is to support law enforcement families grappling with cancer, guiding them through the labyrinth of departmental benefits, workers' comp, legal assistance, and medical treatment options.

Vickie's multifaceted background as an author, peer support advocate, and public speaker enriches her approach to leading Blue Cancer Connect. Her three decades of experience managing multi-million dollar construction projects lend her a unique business acumen, crucial in navigating the complexities of organizational and support systems.

Her empathy and understanding, coupled with strategic problem-solving skills, make her a beacon of hope for law enforcement families nationwide. At Blue Cancer Connect, in collaboration with the City of Hope, Vickie provides a spectrum of services. These range from emotional support, education on treatment options, cancer screenings, to officer-to-officer support, hospice care, and advocating for essential policy changes.

Vickie Speed's influence and tireless advocacy have already left a significant mark on the law enforcement community. In this episode, we delve into her journey, the challenges she's overcome, and the lives she's touched. Join us to hear more about Vickie's remarkable journey and the vital work she's doing with Blue Cancer Connect.

Find out more at https://bluecancerconnect.org/

Feb 22, 202432:27
Episode 269 - From the Forged In The Fires Desk of Fireman Rob "SOCIAL RESPONSBILITY"
Feb 19, 202403:14
Episode 268 - Forged in the Fires Guest - Colin Kingsmill
Feb 15, 202432:27
Episode 267- From the Forged In The Fires Desk of Fireman Rob "OWNERSHIP"
Feb 12, 202402:53
Episode 266 - Forged in the Fires Guest - Terry Kim
Feb 08, 202432:27
Episode 265 - From the Forged In The Fires Desk of Fireman Rob "EMPATHY"
Feb 05, 202403:11
Episode 264 - Forged in the Fires Guest - Ed Monroe

Episode 264 - Forged in the Fires Guest - Ed Monroe

This episode features Ed Monroe, a Fire Captain with the Los Angeles County Fire Department, who has a rich background and diverse experiences. Born in Texas and raised on Air Force bases around the world, Ed calls Huntington Beach, California his hometown. A graduate in Applied Mathematics from Cal State University Northridge, he balances his demanding career with his role as a husband and father to three children. With 15 years of service in the fire department, Ed's tenure includes significant involvement in a notable critical incident, which he now discusses publicly to bring awareness to mental health issues like PTSD and cumulative traumatic stress within the firefighting community.


In addition to his firefighting duties, Ed is actively engaged in advocating for mental health, speaking at various conferences and appearing on podcasts to share his experiences and insights. His expertise extends to incident command, wildland and structure firefighting, HAZMAT, and EMS. Ed's unique contribution also includes the mathematical analysis of firefighting resource effectiveness. His commitment to his peers is further exemplified through his involvement in peer support and the Honor Guard, highlighting his dedication to both his profession and the well-being of his colleagues.

Feb 01, 202439:00
Episode 263 - From the Forged In The Fires Desk of Fireman Rob "LEADERSHIP"

Episode 263 - From the Forged In The Fires Desk of Fireman Rob "LEADERSHIP"

This episode has been published and can be heard everywhere your podcast is available.


These episodes will be short impact information podcasts on one of the different seven catalysts or a sub catalyst, that I have used in my life to move forward, push the limits of possible and find myself.


This week's Topic: LEADERSHIP


"True leadership inspires others to reach their full potential."


For more information on Fireman Rob or the 7 Catalysts go to www.FiremanRob.com.


Jan 29, 202402:59
Episode 262 - Forged in the Fires Guest - Dana S. Diaz
Jan 25, 202440:27
Episode 261 - From the Forged In The Fires Desk of Fireman Rob "STRESS TOLERANCE"
Jan 22, 202402:59
Episode 260 - Forged in the Fires Guest - Oakland McCulloch
Jan 18, 202432:27
Episode 259- From the Forged In The Fires Desk of Fireman Rob "PRODUCTIVE ADAPTABILITY"
Jan 15, 202402:58
Episode 258 - Forged in the Fires Guest - Edward "Buddy" Rushing
Jan 11, 202445:33
Episode 257 - Forged in the Fires Guest - Juan Alvarado
Jan 08, 202432:27
Episode 256 - From the Forged In The Fires Desk of Fireman Rob "INDEPENDENCE"
Jan 04, 202403:08
Episode 255 - Welcome to Season 5

Episode 255 - Welcome to Season 5

Welcome to the bold and thrilling Season 5 of 'Forged in the Fires Podcast'! As your host, I'm charged up and ready to lead us into another season of gripping tales and robust discussions. Your support as listeners is the backbone of this podcast, and I'm deeply grateful for it.


This season, we're bringing even more intensity and depth to our episodes. Thanks for being the driving force behind our journey.


Gear up for an epic Season 5!

Jan 01, 202403:12
Episode 254 - Forged in the Fires Guest - Mike Reilly
Dec 28, 202333:50
Episode 253 - From the Forged In The Fires Desk of Fireman Rob "DECISIONS"
Dec 25, 202303:29
Episode 252 - Forged in the Fires Guest - Joseph Bonanno
Dec 23, 202344:05
Episode 251 - From the Forged In The Fires Desk of Fireman Rob "OWNERSHIP"
Dec 23, 202303:31
Episode 250 - Forged in the Fires Guest - Michael Gaffney
Dec 23, 202339:43
Episode 249 - From the Forged In The Fires Desk of Fireman Rob "PASSION"
Dec 23, 202303:33
Episode 248 - Forged in the Fires Guest - Kevin Kubler
Dec 14, 202332:25
Episode 247 - From the Forged In The Fires Desk of Fireman Rob "MOTIVATION"
Dec 14, 202303:43
Episode 246 - Forged in the Fires Guest - John Ballenger

Episode 246 - Forged in the Fires Guest - John Ballenger

Boasting an illustrious two-decade tenure with the US Marine Corps, John Ballenger epitomizes dedication, service, and excellence. As a CH-53E helicopter pilot, John displayed unmatched prowess and commitment, navigating through four intense combat tours. His exceptional skills and deep-rooted integrity did not go unnoticed. Out of the elite, he was one of the mere seven pilots bestowed with the distinct honor of piloting Marine One, the Presidential helicopter.


Serving not one, but two consecutive Presidential administrations during his last five years in uniform, John’s role was pivotal. Flying Marine One is not just about mastering the aircraft; it is about unwavering trust, responsibility, and ensuring the safety of the nation's highest office. John exemplified these qualities, earning him a seat in the cockpit of one of the most iconic helicopters in history.


Beyond the cockpit, John's leadership and commitment to the Corps and his country have been evident throughout his tenure. His experiences have not only honed his aviation skills but also crafted him into a beacon of resilience, adaptability, and strategic thinking. These attributes, coupled with his vast knowledge, make him an invaluable asset to any team or mission.


Today, as John Ballenger transitions from the structured life of the Marines, he carries with him the values, discipline, and lessons from the skies and the battlefield, ready to make significant contributions to endeavors beyond the horizon.

Find out more at https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-ballenger53/

Nov 27, 202330:40
Episode 245- From the Forged In The Fires Desk of Fireman Rob "PRODUCTIVE ADAPTABILITY""
Nov 23, 202303:19
Episode 244 - Forged in the Fires Guest - Krystalore Crews

Episode 244 - Forged in the Fires Guest - Krystalore Crews

An embodiment of resilience and empowerment, Krystalore Crews embarked on her life coaching journey amidst life's tumultuous twists. Having served the United States Air Force - Air National Guard since 2002, her path took a significant turn when she transitioned to the roles of Human Resource Advisor, Diversity & Inclusion Consultant, and Emotional Intelligence Facilitator, amongst others. The move from Buffalo to Harrisburg presented challenges, both professionally and personally, causing self-doubt. However, her transformative experience began when she enlisted the help of a coach who guided veterans through life transitions.


By 2017, Krystalore, driven by a passion ignited through introspection, launched her own coaching business. Her life's tapestry, marked with tales of triumph over adversity - from a wheelchair-bound phase in 2005 to completing 25 marathons and enduring major health scares - makes her coaching approach deeply empathetic and transformative.


Her vibrant history as an NFL Cheerleader and professional Belly Dancer enables her to infuse zest into her fitness initiatives, such as mindset, HIIT, and Kickboxing classes. As the world grappled with the pandemic, Krystalore seamlessly transitioned her offerings to the virtual realm, catering to a diverse audience in search of mental and physical wellness.


Author of "Your Krystal Clear Life Planner", Krystalore is not just a coach but a beacon of hope, encouraging individuals to transcend challenges, embrace change, and lead fulfilling lives. With each endeavor, she seeks to crew with those yearning for transformation and growth.

Find out more at https://www.krystalorecrews.com/

Nov 20, 202329:43
Episode 243- From the Forged In The Fires Desk of Fireman Rob "PERSPECTIVE"
Nov 16, 202303:28
Episode 242 - Forged in the Fires Guest - Dave Bray
Nov 13, 202333:03
Episode 241 - From the Forged In The Fires Desk of Fireman Rob "PATIENT PERSISTENCE""
Nov 09, 202303:06
Episode 240- Forged in the Fires Guest - Deon Joseph

Episode 240- Forged in the Fires Guest - Deon Joseph

For over 25 years, Officer Deon Joseph has been an integral part of the LAPD, dedicating 23 of those years to Los Angeles' Skid Row. As Senior Lead Officer, his mission transcended typical policing. Driven by compassion, Deon has been instrumental in reshaping the Skid Row community, championing grassroots initiatives over punitive measures.


Recognizing that arrests alone wouldn't instigate long-term change, Deon embarked on community-focused programs. The “Just Like U” Mentor program and “Ladies Night” seminar are shining examples of his commitment. The former inspires children in poverty through mentorship, while the latter educates Skid Row women about their rights against domestic and sexual abuse.


2009 saw Deon launching an outreach program, distributing essential resources to the homeless and providing crucial information about housing, drug rehabilitation, and job programs. His collaborative approach with housing initiatives has successfully transitioned over 100 individuals off the streets. The result of Deon's dedication? A significant 40% drop in Skid Row's overall crime and a 32% decrease in deaths between 2005 and 2009.


But Deon's commitment runs deeper than statistics. He's woven himself into the very fabric of the Skid Row community, forging relationships and dispelling biases. His aim? To revolutionize perceptions of the police, be a beacon of hope, and ultimately end homelessness. While his work has garnered numerous accolades, Deon's drive stems from a profound personal legacy: the altruistic ethos of his parents, which he hopes to pass onto his own children.


Find out more at https://www.deonjoseph.org/

Nov 06, 202332:33
Episode 239 - From the Forged In The Fires Desk of Fireman Rob "TOLERANCE"
Nov 02, 202303:14
Episode 238 - Forged in the Fires Guest - JP Dinnell

Episode 238 - Forged in the Fires Guest - JP Dinnell

JP Dinnell is a former U.S. Navy SEAL and now a Leadership Instructor, Speaker and Strategic Advisor with Echelon Front, where he serves as Director of Experiential Leadership Training Programs.


J.P. is also a pro team athlete and spokesperson for Origin Maine and Jocko Fuel, an American clothing and supplement company.


Jeremiah spent nearly a decade in the SEAL Teams with three combat deployments. Sent to the violent terrorist stronghold of Ar Ramadi, Iraq in 2006 with SEAL Team Three’s Task Unit Bruiser, J.P. served as point man, machine gunner, and lead sniper for Delta Platoon opposite the American Sniper, Chris Kyle, who was in Charlie Platoon.


For his leadership and courage under fire, JP was awarded a Silver Star, 2 Bronze Stars with Valor and the Army Commendation Medal with Valor helping Task Unit Bruiser to become the most highly decorated special operations unit of the Iraq War.


He worked closely with SEAL Officers Jocko Willink, his Task Unit Commander, and Leif Babin, and was the driving force on many of the daring combat operations Jocko and Leif wrote about in Extreme Ownership.


Upon his return, J.P. again worked directly for Jocko as a training instructor at Naval Special Warfare Group One Training Detachment, where he orchestrated realistic and challenging training scenarios for Special Operations Urban Combat training and Close Quarters Combat training to better prepare SEAL units for the real-world battlefield. He also served as a Combatives Instructor, Marksmanship Instructor and earned his Master Trainer Specialist qualification while helping Jocko rebuild and enhance these training programs into the highly effective platforms they are today.


J.P. brings exceptional experience and frontline leadership perspective from the winning mindset and culture of Task Unit Bruiser.

Find out more at https://www.jpdinnell.com/

Oct 30, 202358:37
Episode 237 - From the Forged In The Fires Desk of Fireman Rob "GOALS"
Oct 26, 202303:11
Episode 236 - Forged in the Fires Guest - Amberly Lago

Episode 236 - Forged in the Fires Guest - Amberly Lago

Amberly Lago's journey started in Texas, where her early years as an athlete and dancer forged her tenacity. Taking a leap of faith, she moved to LA at 18, armed with savings and immense ambition. There, she established a thriving fitness company, demonstrating her inherent grit.


However, life took a drastic turn when she was struck by an SUV at age 38. Emerging from a coma with the daunting prospect of a 1% chance to save her leg from amputation, Amberly faced 34 life-saving surgeries. During this challenging period, she was diagnosed with CRPS, a nerve disease known for its excruciating pain. Rather than succumb, Amberly chose resilience and grace. Despite being told she might never walk or work again, Amberly's vision was different, and far more hopeful.


A mere five years ago, without even owning a laptop but possessing vast dreams, Amberly delved into the world of content creation. Through social media, she began sharing her wisdom on resilience and the power of transformation. She showcased how one could pivot from pain to purpose, inspiring others to chase their aspirations irrespective of limiting circumstances.

Today, Amberly's accolades speak volumes. With a TEDx talk featured on TED and recognition as one of the "Top 8 Most Influential Speakers" by USA TODAY, her voice reverberates globally. She has graced platforms such as The TODAY Show, The Doctors TV, Hallmark, and notable magazines like Health, Shape, NYC Magazine, and Forbes. She's also the proud author of a bestselling book and hosts the top-ranked podcast, "True Grit and Grace."


Find out more at https://truegritandgrace.com

Oct 23, 202340:16
Episode 235 - From the Forged In The Fires Desk of Fireman Rob "LEADERSHIP"
Oct 19, 202302:57
Episode 234 - Forged in the Fires Guest - Carlien Cavens
Oct 16, 202338:19
Episode 233 - From the Forged In The Fires Desk of Fireman Rob "ENGAGED"
Oct 12, 202302:58
Episode 232 - Forged in the Fires Guest - Craig Johns
Oct 09, 202341:13
Episode 231 - From the Forged In The Fires Desk of Fireman Rob "MENTAL STRENGTH"
Oct 05, 202303:06
Episode 230 - From the Forged In The Fires Desk of Fireman Rob "THE INFLUENCE"
Oct 03, 202338:22