“What is it that makes a warrior a warrior? […] The warriors were different, and you don’t have to be a marine or a firefighter to be a warrior. You can be a single mom working two jobs just to help your kids. But it’s this concept of ‘adversity helps you grow.’ Iron sharpens iron.” – Lieutenant Zachary
First responders are inherent problem solvers, and it’s a skill Zachary has implemented in every facet of his life as a former marine, firefighter, lieutenant, serial entrepreneur, author, and keynote speaker. He knew he wanted to be a firefighter from the first time he saw a shiny, red 1960s fire engine in his neighborhood as a kid, but it wasn’t until after 9/11 that he found himself in a position to pursue that childhood dream.
Join former paramedic/firefighter and host Phil Klein as he shares the mic with Lieutenant Zachary, who shares his story of tenacity and innovation. Zachary discusses how his complete disorientation and lack of accountability during a mutual aid fire put his problem-solving skills in overdrive and prompted him to develop a nonelectric light source that could be combined with firefighting equipment, accessories, and safety signage. What began as sales from the trunk of his car evolved into a multi-million-dollar company, but his focus has never wavered from enhancing safety and helping his fellow firefighters.
To learn more about Zachary’s company, MN8 Foxfire, and their photoluminescent safety products, visit www.mn8foxfire.com. As always, thank you for listening! If you're enjoying Stories From the Road, please take a minute to support the podcast on Patreon and share it with a friend!