Nick Giese

Alachua County Firefighter/Paramedic
Dad to Jacob, 11, and Korinne, 9

What is the best part about being a dad?

Watching your kids learn something new — and excel at it — is always so rewarding. As a dad, I want to see them exceed at all their endeavors, even if that means showing me up at fishing on our boat.

Do you have any special “dad” routines?

When I am not on shift at the fire station, I sing the kids a song before bed. Paul Simon, Plain White T’s and Owl City are some of their acapella favorites.

What part of parenting scares you the most?

Being a firefighter, you see how the status quo can change in the blink of an eye. Situations beyond my control, involving those I care about, scare me the most.

Which TV or movie dad are you most like?

I think Adam Braverman from “Parenthood” is the most like me. Adam was the guy who wanted to be the best father, husband, son and brother that he could be. I think he was a good mix of cool yet structured in his approach to parenting.

Do you have a special meal you cook?

I am a jack-of-all-trades when it comes to cooking. I do not have a specialty meal, but some of the family’s favorites are BBQ in the smoker, fish in the fryer and pizza on the grill. I have learned different southern techniques from the firehouse that I try to incorporate in the mix, too.

Describe your parenting style in 3 words.

Let ‘em loose! Successful parenting is finding a balance between pushing your kids toward independence and being a dependable guiding force for them in the background.

What is something you learned from your dad that you want to make sure you do?

I learned the importance of working hard to get the job done right the first time and persevering through the difficulties to see it through. I want my kids to understand that hard work is necessary to accomplish anything in life. Sitting back and waiting for it to happen for you is not an option.

What is the one thing that you hope your child/ children learn from you?

Take responsibility for the choices that you make, whether they turn out to be the right choices or the wrong choices. No matter what stage of life you are in, celebrate your triumphs and grow from your failures.

In the words of wife, Katie, “Nick is a true hero in every sense of the word. he has taught our children the importance of service to our community through his actions and not just words. i love his honesty, his loyalty, his sense of humor, his devotion to his faith and his bravery. It is an incredible feeling to have a husband that is able to teach our children that the world’s real heroes aren’t imaginary.”