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

Hey Everybody! It's Fr. Edward · Sep 11, 2025 · 25m

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…