"Nevada Hotshot and Handcrew Superintendents Tell It How It Is" with JP, Chase, Justin, and Kris

Welcome to The Anchor Point Podcast, episode 118! In this episode, we delve into the world of wildland firefighting with a focus on the Nevada Bureau of Land Management Handcrews and Interagency Hotshot Crews. Our guests for this episode include JP Blair, Justin Zabala, Kris Bruington, and Chase Maness, all experienced Hotshots who have worked on the frontlines of some of the toughest wildfires in the country. We talk about their experiences as members of these elite firefighting teams, how they have seen the industry evolve over the years, and the direction the industry is heading with the new changes on the horizon.We also have an honest and candid conversation about the following topics:Changes in crew dynamics from the "old school" to the "new school" and the impact it has had on the job. Operational changes and how they have had to adapt these changes.Moving away from chasing hazard and overtime pay, and how the focus has shifted to safety and taking care of the human component of fire. The importance of saving and not blowing all your money you made in the summer.The toll firefighting can take on mental health and the importance of support systems both during and after the job. Finally, we explore the role of social media in firefighting and how it can be used for "clout chasing" or for a greater good. Our guests provide examples of how social media can be leveraged to educate the public on fire safety and prevention.The guests on this episode are all current or former Interagency Hotshot Crew or Handcrew superintendents, here's a little about these rad individuals:JP Blair - Superintendent of Vegas Valley Veterans Crew, US Marine, and former Del Rosa Interagency Hotshot Asst. Supt.Justin Zabala - Current Assistant Superintendent, soon to be Supt. of Ruby Mountain Hotshots.Kris Bruington - Fire Operations Coordinator for the NV BLM, former Lone Peak IHC Superintendent.Chase Maness - Eastern Nevada Agency BIA Fire Management Officer, former Midnight Suns and Ruby Mountain IHC Superintendent. I Just want to say to these guys are awesome, and I also want to extend a huge thank you for being on the show!Tune in to the original wildland firefighting and wildland firefighter culture podcast, "The Anchor Point Podcast", to learn more about the awesome and ever-evolving world of wildland firefighting.To find out more, visit our website at: anchorpointpodcast.com... Or, check out our LinkTree to find all the episodes you'll want to binge in the back of the buggy!Y'all know the drill:Stay safe, stay savage... Peace!----------------------------The Anchor Point Podcast is supported by the following amazing folks:Mystery RanchNeed badass packs? Then look no further than Mystery Ranch!https://www.mysteryranch.comHotshot BreweryWanna pick up our Anchor Point Podcast merch or need killer coffee? Hit up Hotshot Brewery!!!https://www.hotshotbrewing.comNot sponsors of The Anchor Point Podcast, but great organizations:The Wildland Firefighter FoundationAnd, as always, please consider supporting this great nonprofit organization - The Wildland Firefighter Foundation!https://wffoundation.orgThe A.W.E.Wanna get some history and knowledge on Wildland Fire? Hit up The Smokey Generation!http://wildfire-experience.org