A01=Nichole O'Donnell
Author_Nichole O'Donnell
Category=DNC
Category=JKSW2
Category=VSC
eq_bestseller
eq_biography-true-stories
eq_isMigrated=1
eq_isMigrated=2
eq_nobargain
eq_non-fiction
eq_self-help
eq_society-politics
firehouse lessons
forthcoming
journal
probationary firefighter
Product details
- ISBN 9781593705268
- Dimensions: 152 x 229mm
- Publication Date: 30 Jun 2026
- Publisher: Fire Engineering Books
- Publication City/Country: US
- Product Form: Paperback
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Diary of a Probie: Turning Setbacks into Strengths is a motivational journey through the early career of firefighter Nichole O'Donnell. It is presented in diary form, each forming a lesson for how to overcome adversity in the firefighting career or any other. Through personal and professional struggles and triumphs, O'Donnell's account is both unique and universal, offering experience-based wisdom to probational firefighters, civilians curious about the firefighting profession and its demands, and anyone else finding a place in life.
Nichole O’Donnell is a full-time firefighter and aspiring paramedic who has made a career out of defying the odds. She started in the fire service as a volunteer in 2021, then only 2 years later earned her spot as a full-time firefighter after graduating from the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy. As an author and storyteller, she is active on Instagram and TikTok (@TheSaltyRookie) and has a podcast (The Kitchen Table Talk). Before she ever held a nozzle or climbed a ladder, she was foreperson of a tree crew. Outside work, she has dominated motorcycle hillclimbs and motocross tracks, becoming a repeat New England champion. Leading from the jump seat, Nichole takes pride in being a loyal firefighter who shows up to serve when it counts, grows, and keeps proving herself no matter what the world throws at her.
