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You only get one shot: Train for the moments that matter

Eminem’s anthem about owning a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity applies to hard truths in the fire service

Palms sweaty? Knees weak? Arms heavy? Good. That means you care.

Zam’s borrowing a page from Eminem’s “Lose Yourself” to underscore a hard truth about the fireground: Sometimes you only get one shot. There is no rewind on a mayday, no reset button on a rescue and no do-over on a critical command decision. Zam draws parallels between elite athletes training for their Olympic moment and firefighters preparing for the call that will test everything they know. Sharing stories from the sports world and his own experience on the job, Zam urges you to remember this simple fact: Every call deserves your full attention. Every drill should be treated like the one that could define your career.

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Previously on the Better Every Shift Podcast
NERIS lead developer Craig Weinschenk addresses questions and misconceptions surrounding the system — and how the team is working to improve it every day
With AFG and SAFER grants now open, grant expert Jane Prescott details how departments can build a stronger application before the June 22 deadline
Fire Chief Brian Schaeffer explains how ego, burnout and the “Chiefs Against Virtually Everything” mindset can stall progress — and why leaders must choose growth over comfort
Deputy Chief Darin Wallentine details the seven components of this year’s annual event
From sleep and nutrition to trauma and gratitude, it’s time to take a big-picture approach to resilience built for the realities of the fire service