LA PLATICA Podcast: Episode Summary Episode Title: This is What Firefighters Do Every Day (They Play With Their Mangueras!?) Release Date: February 3, 2025 Host: LA PLATICA PODCAST Guest: Josh Leyva, Firefighter
1. Introduction and Guest Introduction
The episode begins with Sebas and Marco engaging in light-hearted banter before introducing their special guest, Josh Leyva, a dedicated firefighter. They highlight the significance of the episode, marking it as their 180th installment, and express their excitement to delve into Josh's experiences in firefighting.
Notable Quote:
- Marco (00:31): “This is insane. What an accomplishment. This is 180.”
2. Handling Devastating Fires
Sebas and Marco pivot the conversation to recent catastrophic fires in Southern California. They discuss the scale and impact of these fires, emphasizing the unprecedented challenges faced by firefighters. Josh shares his firsthand experience combating one of the largest fires in the region.
Notable Quotes:
- Sebas (02:57): “How are you? How's everything?”
- Josh Leyva (06:05): “This fire has been the most destructive that I've seen for sure.”
3. Mental Health and Camaraderie in Firefighting
The hosts delve into the mental toll that firefighting can take. Josh acknowledges the intense pressure and the necessity for resilience, highlighting the strong bond and brotherhood among firefighters. He shares how personal support systems, like his wife Denise, play a crucial role in maintaining his mental well-being.
Notable Quotes:
- Josh Leyva (05:57): “In order to be a firefighter, you got to have a little screw loose.”
- Josh Leyva (09:13): “She freaks out. So for us, it's fun. We're out there, we're camping.”
4. A Day in the Life of a Firefighter
Josh provides an in-depth look into his daily routine as a city firefighter. He explains the structure of his 48-hour shifts, encompassing routine maintenance of fire engines, responding to various emergencies—from medical aid to multi-vehicle accidents—and the unpredictability that comes with each call.
Notable Quotes:
- Josh Leyva (11:10): “We have chores. You're checking out your rig, you're making sure it runs.”
- Josh Leyva (15:00): “We show up. That's why you see a fire engine at every call.”
5. Firefighting Tactics: Fighting Fire with Fire
The conversation shifts to specific firefighting strategies, particularly the tactic of "fighting fire with fire." Josh explains how controlled burns are used to create barriers, preventing larger fires from advancing by eliminating available fuel sources.
Notable Quotes:
- Josh Leyva (34:06): “That is what we call fighting fire with fire.”
- Josh Leyva (35:03): “We create a barrier with fire to cut off the oxygen fuel.”
6. Personal Journey: From Tragedy to Vocation
Josh shares a poignant personal story from his childhood that inspired him to become a firefighter. Recalling a medical emergency involving his sister, he describes the profound impact it had on his desire to help others in critical situations.
Notable Quotes:
- Josh Leyva (36:54): “I wanted to make their shitty day go away.”
- Josh Leyva (39:14): “That's what guided me my entire life.”
7. Becoming a Firefighter: Steps and Advice
Sebas and Marco express their admiration for Josh's dedication, sparking a discussion about the pathway to becoming a firefighter. Josh outlines the necessary steps, including obtaining certifications, gaining life experience, and the importance of perseverance. He encourages listeners, regardless of their background, to pursue this noble profession.
Notable Quotes:
- Josh Leyva (45:20): “If you have the time, there's no excuse.”
- Josh Leyva (49:30): “Between 18 months and three years is achievable.”
8. Emergency Preparedness Tips for Listeners
Towards the end of the episode, Josh offers practical advice for emergency preparedness, emphasizing the importance of having a ready bag, securing valuables, maintaining a generator, and ensuring communication capabilities during disasters.
Notable Quotes:
- Josh Leyva (69:00): “Have at least one or two weeks' worth of clothes already packed.”
- Josh Leyva (71:11): “Join the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) to learn how to assist during catastrophes.”
9. Encouraging Community Support and Engagement
The hosts and Josh discuss ways listeners can support firefighters and their communities beyond donations. Josh highlights programs like CERT and the significance of fostering, pet food donations, and other community services that can make a tangible difference during emergencies.
Notable Quotes:
- Josh Leyva (73:12): “Have pets fostered during times like this.”
- Sebas (75:00): “We appreciate everything you do for the community.”
10. Closing Remarks and Acknowledgments
The episode concludes with heartfelt thanks to Josh for sharing his experiences and insights. Sebas and Marco acknowledge the invaluable role firefighters play in society and encourage listeners to follow Josh's initiatives to inspire future generations.
Notable Quote:
- Marco (73:32): “Thank you so much for fighting the fires and for being on La Platica. We appreciate you.”
Key Takeaways:
- Firefighting is a demanding yet rewarding profession requiring resilience, teamwork, and unwavering dedication.
- Mental health and strong support systems are crucial for those in high-stress jobs like firefighting.
- Practical preparedness can significantly enhance personal and community safety during emergencies.
- Inspiring the next generation is essential for addressing workforce shortages and fostering diverse, passionate individuals in firefighting roles.
Actionable Advice for Listeners:
- Prepare an emergency ready bag with essentials for at least two weeks.
- Join local programs like CERT to gain skills in emergency response.
- Support firefighters through donations of pet food, fostering pets, or participating in community service.
- Follow and engage with firefighters like Josh Leyva on social media to stay informed and inspired.
Notable Resources Mentioned:
- SeatGeek Sponsorship: Use code LA PLATICA2025 for 10% off tickets on SeatGeek.
- Firefighter Guide: Accessible via Josh Leyva’s Linktree in his Instagram bio.
- Community Emergency Response Team (CERT): Local programs available in most big cities.
For more insights and inspiring conversations, subscribe to LA PLATICA Podcast and follow Josh Leyva on his social media platforms.