Show Notes
"The best decision I ever made," Firefighter Stefon Douglas said to host Captain Randy Li and guest host Lieutenant Jonathan Logan as he recalled the steps he took to become a first-generation Firefighter. Joining Douglas at the table is fellow first-generation Firefighter Belvon Koranteng. The two first responders recap the heroic rescues that resulted in them being 2023 FDNY Medal Day recipients, as well as share words of wisdom to those interested in working in our fire suppression. Plus, FDNY CrossFit members Firefighter Ricardo Roman and EMT Christine McAleer stop by the show to talk about the club’s mission to compete at the highest level and more. ICYMI: Last month, Captain Timothy Smith and Lieutenant Jonathan Logan chopped it up with host Captain Andrew Brown about fatherhood, Juneteenth and much more.
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On this episode of the Join FDNY Podcast, Captain Andrew Brown, our host since 2023, reflects on nearly 25 years of service and the experiences that made the Department central to his life. From joining the first academy class after September 11th to serving in memorable firehouses and supporting recruitment, his career illustrates the opportunities that come with determination and a willingness to learn. He credits preparation classes, experienced mentors and consistent effort for helping him advance, and encourages candidates to study early and build endurance. He describes the Department as a lifestyle defined by fellowship, service and opportunities for growth. Grateful for the lasting friendships and experiences that shaped his career, he looks forward to family time and says he would do it all again.
On this episode of the Join FDNY Podcast, the Department celebrates members honored at the 2026 FDNY Medal Day. Firefighters, paramedics, a fire alarm dispatcher and fire prevention inspectors share their pride in serving New York City and reflect on the work behind their recognition. Highlights include a historic father-and-son medal presentation, an award for a probationary firefighter and recognition for a member with more than 40 years of service. The episode also spotlights new medals honoring dispatch and fire prevention. Across these experiences, members emphasize teamwork, preparation and the satisfaction of helping others. Their advice to candidates is clear: work hard, stay physically ready and keep learning. Together, their stories show the many ways an FDNY career can be rewarding.
On this episode of the Join FDNY Podcast, members of FireFLAG EMS mark Pride Month with a conversation about inclusion, personal growth and the relationships that make the Department feel like family. A paramedic and firefighter describe the challenges of learning the job and the fulfillment of helping people during difficult moments. They explain how supportive colleagues, mentors and affinity groups give members the confidence to be themselves and succeed. The discussion highlights cooperation between fire and EMS, opportunities for advancement and friendships built through shared responsibility. For prospective candidates, the message is to prepare, explore available resources and embrace a career where service and belonging go hand in hand.
On this episode of the Join FDNY Podcast, members of the FDNY Phoenix Society celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month by discussing how the Department became a professional and personal home. The members share their paths into service, the demands of training and the importance of continuing to learn. Their experiences show how different career paths within the Department support the same mission from different perspectives, whether helping someone escape danger or identifying hazards before an emergency occurs. The conversation also explores the value of affinity groups as sources of guidance, cultural connection and friendship. Through mentoring new members and participating in heritage celebrations, the Phoenix Society helps strengthen belonging across the Department. The episode emphasizes dedication, lifelong learning and the satisfaction of serving others.