Interview With Eddie Wineland on Backstage Pass Radio

Backstage Pass Radio Episode with Eddie Wineland

Randy Hulsey of Backstage Pass Radio reconnects with Eddie Wineland for a candid catch-up. They reflect on time, memory, and how social media keeps friendships alive when life gets loud. The conversation also centers on September 11 remembrance and growing anniversaries for parents.

Eddie describes firefighting entering his life in his early twenties. He trained for fights while grinding long weeks in steel mills. A friend mentioned the LaPorte Fire Department was hiring, and a phone call changed everything. He links that choice to helping others, shaped by his younger brother’s burn injuries. The fire service supported his MMA career with schedule, backing, and full-time training. Additionally, fighting and firefighting share a calm under stress and a willingness to face danger. Both demand commitment to teammates.

The episode centers on Eddie’s 9/11 stair climb tribute at Kiwanis Field. They climb 2,071 steps in turnout gear with an air pack. He notes it was a safe environment compared to that day. Yet the gear adds weight and heat, making stairs a grind. They discuss radio traffic, Mayday calls, and remembrance through real sound.

From there, the talk moves to parenting, discipline, and mental toughness. Eddie describes guiding his kids through Patriots Day stairs. They emphasize a household culture where quitting is not entertained. Randy and Eddie push back on a softer, phone-driven culture.

The focus is preparing kids to handle discomfort and responsibility. Backstage Pass Radio keeps a musical tilt, shifting to guitars and learning new skills later in life. Eddie discusses resuming guitar, strumming patterns, and daily practice. He mentions his wife’s family, his Kramer phase, and his sons learning through apps. The episode closes with MMA life after retirement and coaching, with Eddie’s last fight in June 2022 framing his mic work and gym coaching.

Listen on www.backstagepassradio.com