• VDFP Response to Hurricane Helene
    Nov 5 2024

    Welcome to the VDFP Podcast! In today's episode, "VDFP Response to Hurricane Helene", we delve into Virginia's recent emergency responses. Hosted by Chief Jamey Brads and facilitated by Sandra Parker, we're joined by seasoned experts Chief Chad Riddleberger and Captain Jon Rigolo.

    We'll discuss the implementation of the division group concept, successful collaborations with NGOs, and the integration of state and federal teams. Key topics include the deployment of state teams, the importance of hybrid response team training, and the benefits of new technologies like Starlink. We'll cover lessons learned, such as the need for improved communication and staffing depth.

    Additionally, we'll highlight recent efforts by Virginia Task Force 2 and insights from past deployments during Tropical Storm Debbie and Hurricane Helene. Our experts will share their experiences in enhancing coordination and support.

    Join us at the Virginia Beach Fire Training Center for a deep dive into how Virginia continues to adapt and excel in emergency management. Don't miss this engaging episode filled with real-world insights and strategies.

    00:00 Insights and advice for Virginia fire service.

    05:11 Virginia collaborated differently for Hurricane Helene response.

    06:24 Coordinated approach for resource allocation and operations.

    12:27 Division supervisors coordinate response teams and cooperation.

    15:33 Implementing division group concept for collaboration.

    18:09 Commonwealth collaboration is positive; Virginia Heart praised.

    22:47 Preparing for diverse emergency response challenges.

    24:10 Communication challenges required scheduled updates and meetings.

    26:42 Coordination essential for effective equipment utilization.

    Questions, Comments or Ideas for Podcast Topics? Send an email to: pio@vdfp.virginia.gov

    Learn more about the Virginia Department of Fire Programs, visit VDFP website: www.vafire.com

    The VDFP Podcast will release new episodes on the 1st & 3rd Tuesday of every month,and occasionally a Bonus episode, so be sure to subscribe!

    Follow VDFP on social media: Facebook Instagram X/Twitter LinkedIn

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    29 mins
  • BONUS - Dir. Creasy on Importance of Legislative Support
    Oct 29 2024

    Welcome to a special bonus episode of the VDFP Podcast! I'm Sandra Parker, your guide for today's compelling discussion on the indispensable role of legislative support in Virginia's fire service. Join us as our host, Jamey Brads, Chief of Training and Operations for the Virginia Department of Fire Programs, delves into an enlightening conversation with VDFP Director Brad Creasy.

    Discover how Director Creasy's grassroots approach, alongside strong backing from the governor and the secretary, is transforming support for firefighters across the Commonwealth. Gain insights into the challenges, solutions, and innovative strategies making a difference in the lives of first responders. You won't want to miss this captivating episode that underscores the power of hands-on leadership and unwavering governmental support. Stay tuned!

    Questions, Comments or Ideas for Podcast Topics? Send an email to: pio@vdfp.virginia.gov

    Learn more about the Virginia Department of Fire Programs, visit VDFP website: www.vafire.com

    The VDFP Podcast will release new episodes on the 1st & 3rd Tuesday of every month,and occasionally a Bonus episode, so be sure to subscribe! Follow VDFP on social media: Facebook Instagram X/Twitter LinkedIn

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    11 mins
  • Discussion with Director Brad Creasy
    Oct 15 2024

    Welcome to another episode of the VDFP Podcast! Today, we have an engaging discussion with Director Brad Creasy, who was appointed by Governor Glenn Youngkin and brings over 26 years of fire and emergency service experience to the Department. Guided by our facilitator, Sandra Parker, and hosted by Chief Jamey Brads, we dive deep into various topics including the critical role of the Department of Fire Programs in training Virginia's firefighters, exciting new initiatives like online testing, and the development of innovative training programs such as thermal imaging. Director Creasy shares his journey from local fire departments to leading a state agency and the impactful changes he's spearheading to enhance Virginia's fire service. Whether you're a seasoned professional or new to the field, this episode is packed with insights and updates you won't want to miss. Tune in and get inspired by the latest advancements and strategies poised to transform the fire service landscape in Virginia.

    • 00:00 Virginia Fire Programs podcast: insights, stories, advice.
    • 05:50 Legislative process.
    • 08:19 Strong support and transparency with Virginia Fire Board.
    • 11:46 Promotion of VDFP's contribution to Virginia's fire service.
    • 14:05 Focus on customer service; improving firefighter training.
    • 17:17 Delivering sought after programs.
    • 20:43 Online testing - anticipate pilot in January.

    The VDFP Podcast will release new episodes on the 1st & 3rd Tuesday of every month,and occasionally a Bonus episode, so be sure to subscribe!

    Questions, Comments or Ideas for Podcast Topics? Send an email to: pio@vdfp.virginia.gov

    Learn more about the Virginia Department of Fire Programs, visit VDFP website: www.vafire.com

    Follow VDFP on social media: Facebook Instagram X/Twitter LinkedIn

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    23 mins
  • VDFP Podcast: Overview with Chief Jamey Brads
    Oct 1 2024

    Welcome back to the VDFP Podcast! In this episode, we delve into the exciting rebranding and restructuring of our podcast, aimed at bringing you closer to Virginia's fire service. Join Sandra Parker as she introduces our host, Chief Jamey Brads, who shares his extensive experience in the fire service, including his role as Branch Chief for Training and Operations at the Virginia Department of Fire Programs. Together, they discuss the importance of communication, the agency's mission, and what you can expect from future episodes.

    From cutting-edge training techniques to leadership strategies and legislative updates, we'll cover a wide range of topics designed to inform and inspire fire service personnel across Virginia. So, whether you're a seasoned firefighter or just starting out, tune in to find out how VDFP is working tirelessly to serve you better and make a difference in your fire service journey. Stay tuned, and stay safe!

    • 04:38 Improving communication with stakeholders in the fire service.
    • 08:03 Holistic fire service info, just-in-time training.
    • 11:06 Revamping outdated programs to meet national standards.
    • 16:22 Representing Virginia's Fire Service holistically, providing training.
    • 17:58 Learning, adapting, communicating to improve Virginia fire service.

    The VDFP Podcast will release new episodes on the 1st & 3rd Tuesday of every month, so be sure to subscribe! Also follow VDFP on social media: Facebook Instagram X/Twitter LinkedIn

    Questions, Comments or Ideas for Podcast Topics? Send an email to: pio@vdfp.virginia.gov

    Learn more about the Virginia Department of Fire Programs, visit VDFP website: www.vafire.com

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    24 mins
  • Technical Rescue Program and Curriculum Updates
    Mar 15 2023
    Welcome to the Virginia Department of Fire Programs podcast! In this first episode, VDFP Training and Operations Branch Chief Jamey Brads is joined by Special Operations Division Chief Chad Riddleberger to discuss the technical rescue program and curriculum updates for the re-accreditation of our 1006 programs. All of you technical rescue practitioners across the Commonwealth will be interested in all of these changes. TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:
    • [00:06] Today's topic: Technical Rescue Program and Curriculum Updates
    • [00:27] Overview of the Training and Operations Branch
    • [02:37] Details of the Changes to the Training Curriculum
    • [12:08] Questions & Answers
    • [20:43] That's it for today! Don't forget to Share and Subscribe!

    Go to: https://www.vafire.com/training-and-courses/ to learn more!

    Leave Some Feedback:

    • Additional questions about changes to the curriculum discussed in this episode?
    • What should we talk about next?

    Send us an email: training@vdfp.virginia.gov

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    22 mins
  • VDFP Podcast Show Promo
    Mar 9 2023

    Welcome to the VDFP Podcast!

    Sponsored by the Training and Operations Branch of the Virginia Department of Fire Programs, the VDFP Podcast will cover topics that are relevant to the fire service today across our nation and in some cases, specific to Virginia. Branch Chief Jamey Brads will be the host for this conversational podcast with a focus on providing information beneficial to a fire service career.

    Episodes will be released regularly and we welcome your questions and topic suggestions: training@vdfp.virginia.gov

    vafire.com

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    2 mins