Cultural Traditions Episodes

In this episode, Rob and Travis from the FDNY EMS Pipes and Drums share their journey, leadership insights, and the profound significance of their band in honoring fallen heroes and supporting the EMS community.

In this episode, we explore Thomas Lorenzen's journey from military medicine in Germany to becoming a passionate advocate for honor guard traditions, volunteer firefighting, and community service across Europe and the US. Discover insights into cross-cultural firefighting techniques, the importance of peer support, and lessons learned from disaster response.

A listener from Germany sent us a letter, a challenge coin, and a story that led to one of the most personal conversations we’ve had on the podcast. In this episode, we talk about honor guard, brotherhood, 9/11 remembrance, EMS culture, leadership, and the moments that stay with you long after the ceremony ends. Tony also shares more about his journey in honor guard and the mission behind the United National Honor Guard.

In this episode, Fred Hawkins—retired firefighter, retired law enforcement officer, and Senior Drum Major for Santa Fe and the State of New Mexico—breaks down what it really means to represent the fallen. With over two decades in the fire service and 26 years in law enforcement, Fred has seen service from every angle. But it’s his work in honor guard and Pipes & Drums that carries a different kind of weight—where precision, discipline, and tradition aren’t just expected… they’re demanded. ...

In this episode, we sit down with Bill Owen for a real conversation on honor guard, leadership, discipline, and what it actually takes to perform at a high level. Bill shares how his journey began, how he ended up teaching drill and ceremonies around the world, and why standards, culture, and the little details matter more than most people think. From training mindset to team dynamics to the meaning behind doing things right, this episode is packed with insight for anyone who cares about excelle...

Honor guard is more than a uniform, a perfectly executed ceremony, or standing at attention. It represents discipline, precision, tradition, and an unwavering commitment to honoring those who have dedicated their lives to serving others. In this episode of The Line & The Oath, we sit down with Doug Swartz, Commander of the National Honor Guard Academy, to explore what it truly means to carry the standard and the responsibility that comes with serving on an honor guard. Doug shares his expe...

Welcome to the very first episode of The Line & The Oath. In this pilot, we introduce the rebrand, explain what the name stands for (service, sacrifice, leadership, identity, and the commitment behind the calling), and share a personal update and the vision we have for the show. Expect real conversations with first responders, active military, and veterans, exploring leadership, culture, humor, and the real-life experiences that shape those who serve.