The Stoke and Vent Podcast

First Responder self-care, Occupational Health, Trade Unionism, stories and life lessons from multiple generations and industries. Join us in conversation and prioritise your physical and mental health.

The Stoke and Vent Podcast is a health podcast hosted by James Meredith, with 10 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

James Meredith hosts The Stoke and Vent Podcast, a health show with 10 episodes published.

Our AI reads these to draft pitches. Use them as grounding for a pitch that cites a real guest and a specific topic.

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  Episode #10

  Ep10 Embrace Change & Never Look Back - Yorkshire to Auckland with Matt Akers

  Aug 11, 20261h 9m

  In this episode, I sit down with Matt Akers - a British born, New Zealand Firefighter, now based in Auckland. Matt and I discuss his early life and neurodivergence, bouncing from one job to another, relationships, separation, travel, mental and physical health and joining the fire service. Matt also shares his story of taking the brave decision to move from side of the world to the other, as we discuss the ways this has impacted his life. Matt is also, remarkably, still firefighting after being fitted with a pacemaker three years ago, which he shares the story of during our conversation, and explains his road to recovery after a health scare that left him wondering if he would be able to continue his career. This is a good honest conversation with a true gentleman.

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  Episode #9

  Ep9 Andrew Fox-Hewitt for FBU President

  Jul 22, 202638 minS0

  <p>In the world of firefighting, the role of a union president is pivotal in advocating for the rights and welfare of firefighters. Andrew Fox-Hewitt, an experienced Fire Brigades Union (FBU) official and candidate for FBU President, shares his journey and vision for the future of the union. In this episode, we explore his perspectives on the challenges firefighters face, the significance of union representation, and his plans to enhance the FBU's impact.</p><p>Andrew has dedicated over 24 years to the fire service, beginning as a retained firefighter before transitioning to a wholetime firefighter role in Cheshire. His extensive...

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  Episode #8

  Ep8 Presumptive Cancer Legislation and Recognition for Firefighters with former Manitoba IAFF President Alex Forrest

  Jun 3, 20261h 5mS0

  <p>In this insightful episode, former Manitoba IAFF President Alex Forrest shares his extensive experience as a firefighter and advocate for occupational cancer recognition. We discuss the importance of presumptive legislation, the risks firefighters face from carcinogens, and the progress needed in the UK to protect those who protect us.</p><p>Recommended reading Health Risks and Fair Compensation in the Fire Service</p><p>Recommended viewing The Toxic Secret in Firefighter Gear</p>

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  Episode #7

  Ep7 Sleep Hygiene, Sleep Recovery Practice, Firefighter Health and Longevity with Sean & Jacqueline Toomey of First Responder Sleep Recovery

  Feb 27, 20261h 22mS0

  <p>In this conversation, Sean and Jacqueline Toomey of First Responder Sleep Recovery discuss the critical importance of sleep recovery practice for first responders, sharing personal experiences and insights into how sleep deprivation impacts mental and physical health. </p><p>They emphasise the need for cultural change within the fire service to prioritise sleep and wellness, and introduce practical strategies, including Yoga Nidra, to enhance sleep quality.</p><p>The discussion highlights the connection between sleep and overall well-being, urging first responders to invest in their sleep health for a better quality of life.</p><p>Please see the following...

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  Episode #6

  Ep6 Firefighter Long Term Health & Reducing Carcinogenic Exposure with Ryan Conley of Carna Bunker Gear

  Jan 17, 20261h 30mS0

  <p>Today’s guest is Ryan Conley of Carna Bunker Gear</p><p><br /></p><p>Ryan is a Firefighter in the US, with a Masters Degree in Exercise Physiology. He is also a former Competitive Powerlifter, Author, and advocate for firefighter safety, health, and fitness, and owner of @carnabunkergear - a company that provides carcinogen free training gear to reduce cancer in the fire service.</p><p>In this conversation, Ryan and I discuss the intersection of firefighting and fitness. He shares his journey into the fire service, the importance of physical fitness for firefighters, and the unique health ris...

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