Point of Origin Podcast

Point of Origin Podcast No egos, no agendas, just two imperfect Chief's trying to do the job right and help others do the same. One foot in the old school, one in the new.

Welcome to the Point of Origin Podcast™ – where it all begins. Just two chiefs in their 40s, stuck in the middle between generations, expectations, and leadership styles. It’s messy, honest, and sometimes uncomfortable, but it’s real. This podcast is about leadership, culture, training and the conversations we need to have in today’s fire service. No egos, no agendas, just two imperfect guys trying to do the job right and help others do the same.

Yesterday I had the honor of sitting with 344 FDNY Probies at “The Rock” as they prepare to begin their journey Into ope...
09/20/2025

Yesterday I had the honor of sitting with 344 FDNY Probies at “The Rock” as they prepare to begin their journey Into operations next week.

The moment that made the room motionless came from Bill Spade (Rescue 5, Ret.). For thirty minutes, his story of the weeks before and the morning of 9/11 held the room in absolute silence. Speaking with him afterwards gave me a perspective on that day I’ll never forget, and a deeper gratitude for not only the men and women who sacrificed everything, but for those still with us today.

Bill’s story, and his ability to so easily normalize “mental health” in the fire service is something I’ll carry with me forever. Thank you, Bill.

A huge thank you to , the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) Academy Staff, and the National September 11 Memorial & Museum for the hospitality and the opportunity to be at such an event.

08/01/2025

The idea for Point of Origin was sparked in one moment at FDIC this year. We found ourselves pulled into a last minute, no holds barred conversation about generational differences, the urgent need to teach mental health earlier in a firefighter’s career, and the fine line between being shaped by tough calls and understanding that processing them is an unavoidable part of the job.

The fire service is in a unique place. We’re learning that screaming in someone’s face might not be the best way to help them retain the finer points of life saving skills, but finding that there are still elements of “suck it up buttercup” that will always be part of this job. As we gear up to launch our first episode later this month on Firefighter Nation, here’s a little glimpse into the moment Point of Origin was born.

Your people don’t need always need your advice, or your “back in my day” speech. Most of the time they just need your ea...
06/30/2025

Your people don’t need always need your advice, or your “back in my day” speech. Most of the time they just need your ear.

Most are quick to fix things on this job. That’s what we do by nature. People aren’t broken tools though, they’re human. Sometimes, what they really need is someone to just sit beside them and say, “Yeah, that really sucks. You know I’m here though, right?”

You don’t always have to be the boss. Being a brother or sister also means just shutting up and being there.

Check on your people. When you do, lead with heart, not with your ego.

06/12/2025

📣 Congratulations to Captain Austin Cucciardo! 🎉

We are proud to announce that Captain Cucciardo (Linden Station 4) was recently honored by the County of Warren with the “You Make a Difference Award.” This recognition highlights his outstanding leadership and dedication to our community.

Captain Cucciardo played a crucial role in leading the Department through the successful transition of the medication exchange program, ensuring full compliance with DEA and Board of Pharmacy regulations. His leadership in guiding our committee tasked with establishing and implementing this program has made a real difference in how we serve our community.

Additionally, Captain Cucciardo serves on our Apparatus Committee, which recently took delivery of three new ambulance transport units—with two more on order—as well as a new fire engine, also with two additional units on the way. His hard work and commitment help ensure our department remains equipped and ready to serve. Captain Cucciardo also serves as an Assistant Fire Marshal.

Thank you, Captain Cucciardo, for your dedication and service—you truly make a difference in our community! 🚒🚑👏

Photo: Fire Chief Bonzano, Battalion Chief Burrows and Captain Cucciardo (center).

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