301. American Firehouse Cuisine - Joseph Bonanno

After 21 years with the FDNY, Joe Bonanno recounts his time with the department and the highs and lows of the job. For him, the firehouse introduced him to his lifelong passion of cooking. His probie days opened his world up to the firehouse kitchen table, where all things are handled typically over some of the best meals you've ever had. His passion for fitness lead him to wanting to make delicious meals with a healthy approach; a different take back in the 1980's and 90's. In the mid 1990's Joe had an opportunity to publish a healthy firefighter cookbook, American Firehouse Cuisine, which soon lead him down a road of stardom. He has had guest appearances on most morning and talk shows, even had the opportunity to cook with Julia Childs. His new found love for cooking coupled with his career of firefighting has opened so many doors for Joe. On September 11, 2001, Joe was recording at Ladder 3 for a cooking segment and had just left as the first plane struck the World Trade Center. He soon after returned with his Brother Michael, also an FDNY firefighter, and the two of them rushed to Ground Zero to assist on the pile. These dark days took its' toll on Joe and his family. His brother Michael, years later, took his own life and this has become an important topic for Joe and his message. He has educated himself on firefighter metal health and speaks about his personal experience every chance he can as a way to educate our own. Working with the Firefighter Behavioral Health Alliance, Joe is passionate about helping others with the hope of saving our own from suicide. Even though Joe has retired, he continues to work hard and has a new cooking show coming out on YouTube; American Firehouse Cuisine. Check out his new show!!