Playing With Fire
Playing With Fire is a gripping podcast hosted by Bryan Spitulskiāa former firefighter turned fire investigatorāwho 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, andāmost importantlyāsurvivors 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 toldāstories of loss, hope, innovation, accountability, and the enduring human spirit.
Playing With Fire
Paul Hashagen FDNY Firefighter and Rescue 1 Manhattan
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Episode 17: Paul Hashagen, A Lifetime of Service
Retired FDNY firefighter Paul Hashagen has spent a lifetime answering the call. Over a 40-year fire service career, Paul served 25 years with the FDNY, including two decades in the legendary Rescue 1 in Manhattan, while also volunteering for the Freeport Fire Department on Long Island, where he rose to Ex-Chief of Department. His career was inspired by his grandfather, an FDNY firefighter who served from 1918 to 1942, and shaped by generations of firefighters who taught him that experience, teamwork, and humility save lives.
In this episode of Playing With Fire, Paul shares unforgettable stories from the front lines, including lessons learned from senior firefighters, the evolution of the FDNY over four decades, and the culture that made Rescue 1 one of the most respected special operations companies in the world.
Paul also reflects on September 11, 2001, when Rescue 1 suffered devastating losses, and discusses how the fire service has carried those sacrifices forward while continuing to train the next generation.
Beyond the fireground, Paul has become one of the fire service's most respected historians, authors, and illustrators. His books, artwork, and storytelling have preserved the traditions and history of firefighting for future generations, ensuring that the lessons of the past are never forgotten.
Whether you're a firefighter, first responder, or simply fascinated by stories of courage and service, this conversation offers a remarkable look at a career built on dedication, resilience, and giving back.
Connect with Paul Hashagen
š Website: https://www.paulhashagen.com
š Fire Books New York (Books): https://ash1312.myshopify.com
š Facebook: Paul Hashagen, Author
https://www.facebook.com/paul.hashagen.author
š° Firehouse Contributor Page:
https://www.firehouse.com/contributors/contact/10253381/paul-hashagen
www.playingwithfire.net
Bryan Spitulski
Host
Darline Spitulski
Co-host
Jason Connell
Producer
Jessica Xanthe Cran
Producer
Shareen Anderson
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