Playing With Fire

Playing With Fire is a gripping podcast hosted by Bryan Spitulski—a former firefighter turned fire investigator—who brings a frontline perspective to the world of fire. From the chaos of first response to the quiet resilience of recovery, Bryan takes listeners deep into the personal and professional realities of firefighting and fire investigation.

Through candid conversations with firefighters, paramedics, investigators, scientists, and—most importantly—survivors of some of the most devastating fires in recent history, the podcast explores how fire transforms lives, departments, neighborhoods, and entire communities.

Listeners will hear firsthand from those who lost everything, those who fought to save what they could, and those rebuilding from the ashes. Each episode unpacks the emotional toll, systemic challenges, and acts of heroism that emerge in the wake of disaster.

With compassion, insight, and unflinching honesty, Playing With Fire shines a light on stories that need to be told—stories of loss, hope, innovation, accountability, and the enduring human spirit.

Co-host

Darline Spitulski

Darline Spitulski
Co-Host & Director of Marketing

Darline Spitulski brings a sharp investigative mind and deep compassion to her role as co-host for Playing with Fire. With a distinguished background in law enforcement, Darline has worked on numerous high-profile cases throughout California’s Central Valley. Her firsthand experience with the pressures and trauma faced by first responders—particularly women—fuels her commitment to mental health advocacy within the public safety community. On the podcast, Darline offers powerful insight into the often-overlooked impact of PTSD on female first responders, helping listeners better understand the emotional toll of the job and the urgent need for systemic support. With her voice and vision, Darline helps bridge the gap between those who serve and the communities they protect. Darline also serves as the podcast’s Director of Marketing.