Beyond the Call Podcast – GMFRS Launches Inspiring New Series on Firefighter Stories
Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS), one of the UK’s largest and busiest fire and rescue services, has launched an all-new podcast titled “Beyond the Call.” This three-part audio series peels back the curtain on the real lives of firefighters, emergency responders, and the everyday heroes who work tirelessly to keep Greater Manchester safe.
More than just sirens and smoke, Beyond the Call dives into the personal stories, human challenges, and shared community spirit that define GMFRS. It’s a raw, honest, and deeply human exploration of what it means to serve on the frontlines — and behind the scenes — of public safety.
Inside “Beyond the Call”: What Listeners Can Expect
A New Era of Storytelling in Public Service
For years, GMFRS has been synonymous with rapid response and life-saving courage. But what goes on beyond the flashing lights and firetrucks has often remained unseen. The podcast, which debuted on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, TuneIn, and other major platforms, aims to change that — giving the public a rare, authentic glimpse into the human side of emergency service work.
Each episode of Beyond the Call highlights the commitment, compassion, and courage of the people behind the uniform. It’s storytelling that not only entertains but also inspires, reminding listeners of the real humans at the heart of every rescue call.
Episode Breakdown: Three Stories That Go ‘Beyond the Call’
Episode 1 & 2: The Firefighters with Military Roots
The first two episodes open with a powerful theme — the deep connection between the Armed Forces and the Fire and Rescue Service. These episodes are hosted by Crew Manager Andy Williams, joined by Group Manager JP Helliwell and Crew Manager Gaz Houldsworth, and were recorded at the Spearhead Foundation in Salford.
Key Highlights:
Shared Values of Duty: Both military and fire service members share a deep sense of discipline, teamwork, and commitment to public safety.
Transition and Identity: Veterans discuss the challenges of adjusting to civilian life and how joining GMFRS provided a new purpose.
The Armed Forces Network: GMFRS’s Armed Forces Network is spotlighted as a model of inclusion and support for ex-service personnel.
These episodes reveal how the skills honed on the battlefield — resilience, precision, and leadership — translate seamlessly into emergency response roles.
“The uniform may change,” says Crew Manager Williams, “but the mission stays the same: to protect, to serve, and to make a difference.”
Episode 3: Tackling and Preventing Wildfires
The third and final episode, “Tackling and Preventing Wildfires,” shifts focus to one of the most urgent issues facing emergency services today — climate-related emergencies and environmental protection.
Featured Guests:
Station Manager Martin Cain
Station Manager Russell Maden
Kate Hanley, RSPB representative at Dovestone Reservoir
Together, they discuss how education, prevention, and collaboration are critical to reducing wildfire incidents across Greater Manchester and beyond.
Episode Insights:
Wildfires and Climate Change: With summers getting hotter, wildfire risk is increasing dramatically.
Community Engagement: GMFRS teams are working closely with schools, farmers, and conservationists to promote safe outdoor practices.
Partnership with RSPB: The collaboration at Dovestone Reservoir showcases how cross-sector teamwork protects not only people but also wildlife and natural landscapes.
This episode underscores the modern reality of firefighting — it’s no longer just about putting out flames, but about preventing them before they start.
Beyond Emergencies: The True Spirit of GMFRS
A Service Built on Humanity
The title “Beyond the Call” perfectly encapsulates the ethos of GMFRS. It’s not simply about responding to emergencies; it’s about going above and beyond, both professionally and personally, for the communities they serve.
From flood rescues to mental health support, and from wildfire prevention to youth education programmes, GMFRS continues to expand its role far beyond traditional firefighting.
Examples of Going Beyond the Call:
Community Safety Education: Firefighters regularly visit schools to teach children about fire prevention and emergency preparedness.
Mental Health Advocacy: GMFRS staff support campaigns on well-being, trauma recovery, and resilience in high-stress professions.
Environmental Sustainability: The service is investing in eco-friendly equipment and green energy to reduce its carbon footprint.
The Voices Behind the Uniform
One of the strongest aspects of Beyond the Call is its storytelling — real people, real voices, and real emotion. Listeners are drawn into heartfelt accounts of bravery, teamwork, and personal growth.
Meet the Team:
Andy Williams (Crew Manager): A veteran firefighter whose calm leadership has guided countless rescue operations.
JP Helliwell (Group Manager): Known for his operational expertise and dedication to mentoring young recruits.
Gaz Houldsworth (Crew Manager): A passionate advocate for military veterans entering the fire service.
Martin Cain & Russell Maden (Station Managers): Environmental champions committed to preventing wildfires through education.
Kate Hanley (RSPB): Brings an ecological perspective to fire management and habitat protection.
Each voice adds a new layer to the overarching theme — that courage is not just about facing danger, but about caring deeply for others.
From Military to Civilian Life: Bridging Two Worlds
The connection between the armed forces and fire services runs deep. Both demand discipline, structure, and a strong moral compass. But perhaps most importantly, they both rely on trust and teamwork in life-or-death situations.
Beyond the Call’s first two episodes explore how these shared values help create a supportive environment for veterans transitioning into civilian careers.
Topics Discussed:
How veterans find renewed purpose through service.
The role of peer mentorship in recovery and adaptation.
The sense of belonging and camaraderie within GMFRS.
These stories offer invaluable insights for listeners — particularly those navigating their own career transitions.
The Broader Message: Firefighters as Community Leaders
In today’s rapidly changing world, firefighters are much more than first responders. They are educators, environmental advocates, and public health ambassadors. GMFRS is embracing this broader mission wholeheartedly.
“We’re not just a service that responds to fires — we’re part of the community,” says a GMFRS spokesperson. “This podcast is our way of sharing the incredible, often untold stories that define who we are.”
The Role of Podcasts in Public Engagement
In an era of short attention spans and digital overload, podcasts have become a powerful storytelling tool for public organisations. With Beyond the Call, GMFRS joins a growing list of emergency services using audio storytelling to build trust and transparency.
Why Podcasts Work for Public Services:
Authenticity: Listeners hear real voices, unfiltered and human.
Accessibility: Audio content is easy to consume — on the go, at work, or during commutes.
Emotional Connection: Personal stories resonate deeper than press releases or social media posts.
By investing in podcasting, GMFRS is not only modernising its communications strategy but also deepening its relationship with the public it serves.
How to Listen
Beyond the Call is now available on all major streaming platforms, including:
Apple Podcasts
Spotify
TuneIn
BBC Sounds
Listeners can also find the series via the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service official website and its social media channels.
A Celebration of Service, Humanity, and Hope
At its core, Beyond the Call is a celebration — of people, purpose, and perseverance. Through candid conversations and compelling storytelling, it shines a light on the everyday acts of heroism that often go unseen.
From the roaring blaze of a rescue to the quiet reassurance offered after tragedy, the podcast captures moments that define what it truly means to serve.
Conclusion: More Than a Job — It’s a Calling
The stories in Beyond the Call remind us that behind every uniform is a human being — one driven by empathy, courage, and community. It’s not just about responding when the alarm sounds; it’s about carrying that same commitment into every part of life.
For the Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service, this podcast isn’t just a media project — it’s a mission statement. It tells the world that going “beyond the call” means standing up for others, no matter the circumstance.
