# Out of the Comfort Zone: The Power of Small-Scale Fire Conferences

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Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/fire-engineering-podcast-network-1075754/out-of-the-comfort-zone-the-power-of-small-scale-fire-conferences.md
Podcast: [Fire Engineering Podcast Network](https://stenobird.com/podcast/fire-engineering-podcast-network-1075754)
Published: 2026-05-17T23:30:00+00:00
Episode link: https://fireengineeringpodcastnetwork.podbean.com/e/out-of-the-comfort-zone%c2%a0the-power-of-small-scale-fire-conferences/
Audio file: https://mcdn.podbean.com/mf/web/9yzx6b7dwkw4xsa5/FE_-_20260516_-_Generation_Engine70fw2.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/fire-engineering-podcast-network-1075754/episodes/out-of-the-comfort-zone-the-power-of-small-scale-fire-conferences
Duration seconds: 1878

## Resource

This episode explores why fire service professionals must step outside their own jurisdictions to maintain their edge. Hosted by Todd Edwards, this episode's panel includes: Alan Griffin Michael Sayles Dane Yaw Matthew Bayes The discussion covers national-level instructors going to regional settings. They discuss massive events like FDIC, smaller "microconferences," and how these events provide unique spaces for involvement. The panel shares their experience with outside training and departmental stagnation, offering fresh eyes on familiar tactics.

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## Transcript

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