Episode 337: He Battled Fires and Culture: A Catholic Firefighter’s Story with Benjamin O'Brien

I sit down with Benjamin O’Brien, Catholic firefighter and author of The Proving Grounds: A Catholic on Ladder 17.
In our conversation, Benjamin shares:
🔥 Why he chose firefighting and how he discerned leaving the profession
🔥 The ways he integrated his Catholic faith into the firehouse
🔥 What inspired him to write The Proving Grounds and the reaction from former coworkers
🔥 The role of chaplains, Sunday observance, and living as a Catholic man in a demanding environment
🔥 Why firefighters are teased for their good cooking and how camaraderie builds strength
🔥 The lasting impact September 11 had on the fire service
This episode is both a reflection on service and sacrifice and a reminder of the deep connection between faith and vocation.
👉 Be sure to check out Benjamin’s book The Proving Grounds: A Catholic on Ladder 17 wherever books are sold. https://ignatius.com/the-proving-grounds-pgp/