Kitchen Table: Leadership Conversations: Recent Episodes
Berlin Maza
Dr. Brooke Lundquist is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who has dedicated her career to supporting the people who answer the call. With more than 25 years as part of a fire service family, she brings both professional expertise and personal perspective to the unique challenges facing first responders and their loved ones. As the owner of First Responder Counseling and Consulting, Brooke and her team provide culturally competent therapy for firefighters, law enforcement, EMS personnel, and their families. She also serves as the on-site Mental Health Professional for Redmond Fire Department, Bellevue Fire Department, and Harborview Medical Center's Paramedic Training Program. Trained in EMDR, Gottman Couples Therapy, and certified as a First Responder Counselor, Brooke is leading the conversation on why mental health is no longer just a benefit—it's an operational necessity. Her message is clear: changing the culture of wellness in the fire service begins with leadership, trust, and making mental health a part of the job from day one.
Berlin Maza, a Captain with Eastside Fire & Rescue in Washington, shares leadership lessons shaped by the mentors, colleagues, and experiences that have influenced his career in the fire service. He points out that none of these ideas are his alone—they are the result of a lifelong commitment to learning from others.
Berlin explores the importance of remaining a student of leadership, drawing wisdom from fellow firefighters, formal education, books, podcasts, workshops, and everyday experiences. His message is simple: great leaders are never finished learning. By continuously seeking knowledge and adapting it to your own style, you can become the authentic leader you aspire to be.
Berlin is joined by three members of the fire service, offering practical insights and thoughtful perspectives on the real-world challenges today's leaders face.
David Brannan, Program Director at the Center for Homeland Defense and Security at the Naval Postgraduate School, joins us for a conversation on staying in the fight—both professionally and personally. He discusses the importance of mentorship, succession planning, and developing the habit of challenging your own biases to become a better critical thinker. He explains why we should "train for the known and educate for the unknown," recognizing that leadership is full of challenges no amount of training alone can fix. It's a conversation about continuous learning, leadership, and why sometimes the best advice is also the simplest: "You gotta say yes," and "Kill your television and read books."
Fire Chief Ryan McGrady of West Pierce Fire & Rescue, one of the most powerful leadership traits isn't about having all the answers—it's about being willing to be vulnerable. Chief McGrady discusses how vulnerability accelerates growth, both for leaders and the teams they serve. By acknowledging mistakes, asking questions, and being open about challenges, leaders make change easier to navigate and foster a culture of continuous improvement. Vulnerability also equips leaders to handle difficult conversations with honesty and empathy, strengthening relationships and helping teams work through conflict more effectively.
A key lesson from Chief McGrady's leadership philosophy is that great leaders are also great followers. Leadership is not about being the smartest person in the room. Instead, it requires the willingness to listen, learn, and trust the expertise of others.
Deputy Fire Chief Jim Whitney of the Redmond Fire Department—a leader who stood on the front lines during one of the most defining moments in modern emergency response. As the Medical Services Administrator involved in the nation’s first confirmed COVID-19 case, Chief Whitney brings a perspective on leadership under pressure.
This conversation dives into what it truly means to lead through conflict. Chief Whitney explores the concept of “turning up the heat without burning down the organization,” breaking down the balance between urgency and stability. He introduces the idea of the 60-25-15 dynamic—where 25% is the critical space where real productivity, growth, and progress happen.
More importantly, this episode challenges the notion that leadership is tied to rank. Whether you’re in a formal position or not, leadership is about stepping forward where you stand—taking risks, embracing discomfort, and having the courage to fail. Growth doesn’t happen without friction, and sometimes the boldest ideas are the ones that feel the most uncomfortable to put on the table.
Fire Chief Trisha L. Wolford of the Anne Arundel County Fire Department in Maryland leads one of the largest combination fire departments in the country, serving more than 600,000 residents—but her path to Fire Chief is anything but traditional. She began as a firefighter/paramedic and built a diverse career through the Fire Marshal’s Office, sworn law enforcement, fire and explosives investigations, and service as a Tactical Medic on a SWAT team. She is a graduate of the Executive Fire Officer Program at the National Fire Academy and the IAFC’s Fire Service Executive Development Institute (FSEDI), and currently serves as President and Board Chair of the International Association of Fire Chiefs, Vice President of the IAFC’s Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association Executive Board, and an Executive Board member for the FirstNet Authority. Grounded in perspective and gratitude, her story is a reminder that leadership has no rank—and that an untraditional path, driven by grit and purpose, can take you wherever you’re willing to go.
A powerful conversation with Mike Dugan, a 27-year veteran of the FDNY and retired Captain of Ladder Company 123, whose fire service journey spans nearly five decades. A recipient of the prestigious FDIC International Tommy Brennan Lifetime Achievement Award, Mike brings unmatched perspective on what leadership truly looks like—both in the firehouse and on the fireground. In this episode, he challenges the traditional mindset with a simple but impactful truth: everyone is a leader. From promoting yourself and investing in others, to the often-overlooked skill of truly listening, Mike delivers candid insights that resonate across all ranks. He also tackles the critical conversation around mental health in the fire service, reinforcing that seeking help isn’t weakness—it’s survival. Because sometimes, talking to someone can save your marriage, your career, and even your life.
Chuck DeSmith, a retired Deputy Fire Chief with 35 years of service at Renton Regional Fire Authority in Washington draws from decades of leadership experience sharing his passion for peer support and the importance of modeling resiliency within the fire service. He challenges today’s leaders to move beyond treating peer support as a program, and instead embed it into the organization’s operating budget with clear policy and long-term commitment. This conversation offers practical insight into building a culture that truly supports the people behind the badge.
With more than 40 years in the American Fire Service, Paul Conway’s journey—from firefighter to assistant chief of the Milwaukee Fire Department—is a masterclass in leadership earned the hard way. Throughout his career, he served at every level of the organization—operational, tactical, and strategic—leading emergency response, managing complex resources, and overseeing multidisciplinary teams with a steady hand and a servant’s heart. But what makes Paul’s story powerful isn’t just the titles; it’s the lessons learned from a life full of mistakes, growth, and reflection. In 1985, he founded Conway Shield with a vision to become the nation’s leading provider of protective gear, safety equipment, and training—proof that leadership doesn’t retire, it evolves. In this episode, we talk about what it really means to “be where your feet are,” to enjoy the view even in the chaos, and to remember that in the fire service, you don’t have to do this job—you get to.
Retired Seattle Fire Department Captain and 2008 FDIC International keynote speaker Mike Gagliano brings decades of fireground leadership and life-earned wisdom to the show. As president of the Firefighter Air Coalition and co-author of Air Management for the Fire Service and Challenges of the Firefighter Marriage, he shares a powerful message for today’s firefighters: expect challenges, don’t quit, and remember—no one is stopping you from becoming the best firefighter you ever wanted to be. Lead with gratitude, stay disciplined, and don’t forget to have fun along the way.
Captain Tyrall Quinn, author of The Calling: The Unseen Work of Leading Well, joins the podcast to share a powerful story of service, departure, and return. After stepping away from the fire service following 20 years on the job, Quinn reflects on what it meant to be welcomed back by his department and how that experience reshaped his understanding of leadership. The conversation explores humility, confidence, accountability, and mental wellness—both on and off the fireground—while honoring the legacy of those who paved the way. As Quinn reminds us, “If I have seen further [than others], it is by standing on the shoulders of giants,” a truth that underscores the importance of remembering those who came before us as we lead, grow, and serve.
Fire Chief Randy Chevalier of Timber Mesa Fire and Medical District shares hard-earned lessons on leading through crisis and challenge. Having guided his department through three firefighter line-of-duty deaths, Chief Chevalier discusses the importance of building a solid support team inside and outside the organization, understanding that no leader can do everything alone. He emphasizes navigating crisis with a focus on mental health, and the necessity for leaders to give themselves grace while extending grace to others.
Lieutenant Ash Shapiro of Hartford Fire Department talks getting the job done, especially if no one else is. Take the job seriously but don't take yourself too seriously. A good leader keeps their eyes open and watches people. They must get to know the people they lead and have a little fun. There will always be a few bad apples, but leaders must learn their strengths and weaknesses too. It's ok to knock someone down, as long as you build them back up!
Deputy Chief Ryan Power of the Spokane County Fire in Washington talks about the lost art in the fire service, "The Human Factors of Communication." Chief dives into the 4 C's of Communication: 1) Connection, 2) Choice, 3) Competency, 4) Consistency. Chief also dives into the different styles of communicators: 1) Social, 2) Direct, 3) Empathetic, 4) Logical. Effective communication is a cornerstone to effective leadership and the best leaders can transition between the different styles seamlessly. Chief Power emphasizes that communication and emotional intelligence are tactical skills and they should be practiced like anything else, and that you can't lead people effectively if you don't understand people.
Fire Chief Sionna Stallings-Ala'ilima of the Tacoma Fire Department talks Family & Servant Leadership! Be purposeful on how you show up every day in whatever role you are in, because pessimism and optimism are both contagious! Every leaders holds a certain amount of power. The most influential of leaders have the power of respect and are experts at their job. Remember that people will follow you if they respect you and if you are really good at your job.
Deputy Chief/Senior Tour Commander Leigh Shapiro (ret.) of the Hartford (CT) Fire Department and author of the book An Insiders Guide to Mentoring the Fire Officer talks Mentorship & Coaching and Succession Planning. Chief discusses the difference between being "prepared" vs being "ready" to step up into the "next" role. Chief also talks the importance of organizational skills, administrative skills, emotional maturity and communication skills in strong fire officers and leaders. Regarding training, education and experience: Money spent on your education, books and certifications is money well spent. Embrace, own and learn experiences, because their is no substitute for experience.
Fire Chief Adrien Sheppard of the Redmond Fire Department dives deep into Succession Planning & Strategy. He stresses the importance of talent acquisition, cultural fluency and providing for fail safe environments for growth and development of your people to take place. Succession planning is not about an individual or a person, it's about the organization. Don't be afraid to think differently, and show vulnerability. Remember, "Don't take things personal!"
Retired Battalion Chief Jerry Wells of the Lewisville, Texas Fire Department discusses how the Fire Service is the Ultimate Team Sport! He stresses the importance of "Being Here Now," whether you are busy training, working out, or playing video games , make sure your mind, body and soul are all in! Every shift, every firefighter should be doing something for your 1) Mind, 2) Body, and your 3) Rigs. Everything in the fire service and in life, "starts with me."
Fire Chief Jake Rhoades of the City of Buckeye Fire-Medical-Rescue Department in Arizona unpacks leading people through change. Leaders must always be leaning in: Be students of the profession, learn the job above you and teach the job below you. Build your networks early. Be intentional with the relationships you build and the time you invest with those relationships.
Deputy Chief Nicholas Papa of the New Britain (CT) Fire Department focuses on Service above Self. Nick is a Fire Engineering best-selling author of the book Coordinating Ventilation: Supporting Extinguishment and Survivability. In one of his courses he teaches the concept of: “There are no bad fire companies, only bad company officers," a spin from Jocko Wilink's "There are no bad teams, only bad leaders." Chief Papa is a subject matter expert in ventilation, as he emphasizes the 3 C's of coordination, paralleling leadership traits: 1) Communication, 2) Control, 3) Competency.
Fire Chief Mark Niemeyer of the Boise Fire Department discusses Succession Planning & Culture. Understand that your leadership path does not have to be traditional. Winning breeds winning and losing breeds losing. Train your people so well that they can go anywhere, but treat them so well they won't. A fire chief's #1 job is to 1) Layout the vision, #2) motivate your people and #3) Support them. All FF's should find themselves smiling more than you complain!
Deputy Chief Shane Smith of Twin Falls, Idaho talks leading through adversity and how everything starts with humility. Strong leaders have the ability to reflect, have a servant's mindset, as well as practice mindfulness. Shane also dives into the importance of fire service instructors investing all 100% into the students, not wasting their time, and giving them what they paid for.
Battalion Chief Tim Rogers (ret.) of Charlotte Fire Dept. & Senior Master Sergeant of the Air Force Greg Elmore (ret.) dive deep into the topic of how "Leadership is your job no matter what your job is." It is never too early to start learning leadership. Leaders have got to start building a culture of learning and a culture of leadership. Don't let the business get in the way of leadership!
Fire Chief Brian Fennessy of Orange County Fire Authority discusses the Mission Drive Culture, the Orange County Fire Way and Leader's Intent. The chief emphasizes that leadership is a journey, and that investing in leadership development matters. Even when organizations don't or can't, individuals must invest in themselves. Authenticity and empathy are critical traits in leadership!
Retired Deputy Chief of Seattle Fire Department Phil Jose discusses Curiosity as a required leadership trait. "Replace judgement with curiosity!" Chief Jose teaches internationally on the Art of Reading Smoke, Tactical Decision-making, and Instructional Craftsmanship: Building your Expertise and Ability at the Front of the Room. Leaders must learn the art of teaching to be effective. Leaders must fulfill their oath by using all of their resources around them to deliver the best service possible.
Battalion Chief Nathan Travis of Little Rock Fire Department in Arkansas talks Unexpected Leadership. Leadership means serving everybody. Leaders should know the role above them and step up and take on roles even if you don't want them. Chief Travis suggests to grow, you should feel like 1) you don't belong in the room, 2) you aren't the smartest in the room and 3) you are uncomfortable. Those 3 things will help you grow in your career faster than you imagined . Not everyone is about the wins. Failures speak louder than your achievements. Server everyone and respect everyone!
FDIC 2024 Keynote Speaker & Fire Chief Scott Thompson of The Colony Fire Department in Texas goes all in discussing leadership and mentorship in the fire service. Leadership starts with looking in the mirror. 3 things every leader needs to be able to do: #1) Understand yourself, #2) Understand the organizational influences and #3) Understand people. Mentorship is a privilege that requires investing and sacrificing.
Fire Chief of Cocoa Beach Fire Department in Florida talks about relationships, developing them and creating them. He talks about the concept of being firefighter led, and chief fed. This will lead to trust, empowerment and collaboration. Be like a Banyan Tree of strength, interconnectedness and resilience to build a solid foundation leading to alignment within your organization!
Labor & Management Team of the Phoenix Fire Department - Executive Assistant Chief Tim Kreis and Captain/Executive Vice President Tim Gammage Jr. team up in today's conversation to talk about the importance and successes of the Labor & Management Relationship. Discussion dives into the leadership depth within the Phoenix Fire Department over the last 40+ years. Adversity does not build character, it reveals it. Management is going to share authority and labor is going to accept responsibility. "Take ownership, not membership." Labor & Management together, should always be looking to do what is best for the firefighters and safety, and what is the best for customer service.
Battalion Chief John Lovato Jr. of the City of St. Myers Fire Department in Florida talks about chasing your own experience and don't wait around for it. The author of Fix your Firehouse, founder of Brotherhoodcoaching.com, and host of the John Lovato Show, chief says you are either winning or you are learning! Always remember that being curious and having conversations are both learned skills.
Fire Chief Matthew Love of the St. Cloud Fire Department discusses the “WP" or the Whole Package of Leadership,” including Servant leadership. The whole package includes being an 1) effective leader, 2) effective manager and 3) having a servant's heart. New FFs and new Leaders must open themselves up to be led & to be mentored! It's important to remember that when you lead out of love, you are developing a whole person. Be the leader that changes peoples lives. Leadership is about the long game!
Operations Chief Steve Lea of Cocoa Beach Fire Department in Florida discusses the importance of empowering your people. Get outside your department, learn from everywhere and bring it back to your department. Culture change can start from the bottom. Ego is the enemy!
Operations Chief Nick Langlow of Gig Harbor Fire & Medic One talks the human skills of leadership. Not every organization has the unicorn leaders. Some have great leaders, some have great managers. Organizations need both. Prepare for the job you want, prepare for the job you have, but don't think you are going to have it all figured out. You'll never be able to prepare for everything, leaders have flaws and are always learning. Young leaders should continue to push the leaders above them to lead them. Mentoring and developing your people is NOT optional!
Deputy Fire Chief Steven Dubay (ret.). of Colorado Springs Fire Department's emphasizes to all leaders to "Never Stop Learning." Feedback is a gift. Look in the mirror and look at yourself first when trying to become your best self. Know your strengths, know your weaknesses, take advantage of opportunities, always be open-minded and learn from everywhere!
Deputy Chief Michael DeStefano of Jupitor Fire Rescue Department dives into Maslow's Hierarchy of needs, specifically for firefighters. He talks about the inverted pyramid as leaders serving others, as well as the "How can I help you culture," striving to wow all customers, internal and external. Leaders should be thinking of Maslow’s hierarchy when developing policy, at the negotiation table and whenever you are leading!
Assistant Chief John Payne of Bremerton Fire Department discusses individual leadership growth and becoming the leader you are supposed to be, not the leader that someone else is. Lead "your way" and understand that there are leadership lessons everywhere around you. Find them, extract them, and use what works for you! Leaders should "Provide Vision and Allow Action!"
Fire Chief Chris Tubbs of Southern Marin Fire District in California, dives into Delivering Public Value in a Tribalistic Culture – the Role and Responsibility of Leaders. We talk the intersection of public value and culture, as well as the 4 C's of leadership - Character, Credibility, Curiosity & Courage. “It is not the critic who counts; not the person who points out how one stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the person who is actually in the arena!"
Lieutenant General Jack Rives of the United States Air Force and Executive Director of the American Bar Association dives deep into leadership being much more than just a title. You must always hold people accountable and lead by example. There are no good leaders out there who are not good listeners, emerging leaders learn so much more when you take the time to listen to your people. In the words of General George S. Patton, "You are aways on parade."
Deputy Fire Chief Stephen Shaw of the Town of Jupiter Fire Rescue Department talks about the weight of our words and how what you say is as important as anything. Your actions must match your words, you never know what you'll get unless you ask, and every leader should adopt the plus +1 mentality! Don't do things by yourself. Succession plan and bring others up with you to develop that strong team! Make conversations the norm, not the exception. Default to dialogue and take every opportunity to have a discussion with your people!
Captain Spencer Davis of Norfolk Fire & Rescue along with previous Kitchen Table guest Battalion Chief Jarrod Sergi join the show today to talk about forming a team, building and maintaining credibility, getting out of your comfort zone and a whole lot more. Leaders must build relationships, immerse themselves in the culture, and study the craft each and every day. Remember that leadership is just another discipline. You must continuously hone the skill and sharpen it, because just like any other skill, you can lose your effectiveness without doing so.
FDIC 2022 Keynote Speaker and co-author of 25 to Survive: Reducing Residential Injury and LODD, Assistant Chief of Operations Dan Shaw (ret.) talks the "Command Mindset," and Mission First, People Always! Stuck on what to train on? Train on these 7 categories: 1) Communications, 2) Positioning, NOT parking, 3) Water supplies, 4) Hose lines, 5) Ladders, 6) Search & Rescue and 7) Ventilation. Leaders must put their ego's aside and be able to receive feedback as well as give feedback. Always remember that "The Fire Always Gets a Vote!"
Founder of the Leadership Crucible Foundation, Fire Chief Randy Bruegman emphasizes the need to "Pay it forward, leave it better, and do the right thing even if it's hard." The best leaders are change managers, they learn how to have courageous conversations, understand strategic change and invest in building a positive culture. Chief also talks about diversity, inclusiveness, opportunity and accountability. When you get the badge, you are a success, but it does not mean you are significant. Aspire to live a life and a career of significance!
Dr. and Fire Chief Eric Saylors of El Cerrito/Kensington Fire Department talks about the fundamental principle of leadership; a positive succession plan, guiding future leaders to replace the current ones. Chief dives into the "Succession Project," his 3 traits of strong leaders: 1) Empathy, 2) Adaptability and 3) Resilience, and his non-negotiable, "Breaches of discipline." "Early winners don't make good leaders!" The greatest leaders get knocked down over and over again, but get right back up and move forward.
Division Chief Heather Marques of Alameda County Fire Department encourages leaders to lead with love. Leadership is influence! Try to default to positivity, Understanding Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs will help leaders better understand the needs of the people they lead. From her thesis paper, "Working Fire: Recruitment & Retention of Women Firefighters," Chief Marques discusses the 4 quadrants of concern for retention of women firefighters : 1) Physical challenges 2) Work-home sociocultural factors ,3) Family planning and 4) Promotional challenges. "Ancora Imparo," I am still learning."
Division Chief David Stone of South Walton Fire District dives deep into what Emotional Intelligence is and what leaders can do to incorporate these importance characteristics into their leadership development! Chief also talks about why negativity and complaining is so easy for leaders and how a positive mindset is a must in a strong leader. Be the leader you've always wanted, and start by being a servant leader!
Fire Chief Shannon Stone of Midway Fire District talks company officer leadership, adversity, high performing teams and cultures. Are you a leader who sees problems or sees opportunities? Leaders must be good at teaching and sharing information. They should be an expert at their job and every job below theirs. Always put others before yourself, study servant leadership and study human behavior. Anyone who knows how to effectively communicate will get more out of life.
Fire Chief Dave McGlynn within Federal Fire and Emergency Services talks all things training. We are talking what makes an effective training officer as well as training division. Are you a teacher and educator or are you just in the position of teaching? You're not a teacher unless they're learning. No different than you aren't leading if they aren't following. The chief talks about the position of influence that you are in. Are you using it in a positive manner or negative? Leave your ego at the door!
Assistant Chief Johnny Torgeson of MCLB Barstow Fire & Emergency Services talks Forging your Team! He outlines the differences between a group vs crew vs team, as teams are what we should be striving for in the fire service! Chief Torgeson also differentiates between mentoring and coaching as both have its place in development. Additionally, every single person must be intentional in their plans regarding developing yourself, your team and your organization. Pour 80% of your energy into 20% of your people and you will have created a force multiplier in forging your teams. Don't walk around with a leadership license: Earn the respect, opportunity and privilege to lead each day as if it were a new day.
Assistant Chief Scott Booth of Gig Harbor Fire & Medic One talks about the the necessity of being vulnerable in effective leadership. In his EFO paper, he unpacks "shared struggle," encouraging leaders to create opportunities for their team or crew to struggle together, instead of relying on chance to offer those situations. He challenges everyone to be just a little more vulnerable, today, with something simple, and see what happens! Scott also talks about how followership can be argued as more important than leadership.
Battalion Chief Dena Ali of the Raleigh Fire Department in North Carolina talks peer support., destigmatizing mental health and modeling vulnerability. Our guest has conducted extensive research on the mental health challenges faced by first responders, including the impact of trauma and stress, and has also conducted research on firefighter suicide. Chief Ali has also served as a subject matter expert at the National Fire Academy, where she assisted in reviewing the health and wellness curriculum. She goes into the polyvagal theory, and heart rate variability as it relates to training, recovery and performance.
Assistant Chief Rayne Gray of the Buckeye Fire Medical Rescue Dept. talks expanding your empathy by asking real questions, listening with real intent and getting to know your people. He unpacks the importance of getting out of your comfort zone and failing. People who really care about outcomes and their leadership qualities fear they don't measure up to the task, but they are the ones who are paying attention, staying curious, asking questions, learning and trying to better themselves. He suggests the ones who have it "all figured out," are the ones to be concerned about. Chief Gray suggests all leaders to build their reading lists, because although not all readers are leaders, all leaders are readers.
A group of dedicated fire officers who met at the Command & Control class at the National Fire Academy came together to create a "Wolfpack." Committed to continuous mentorship and learning, topics discussed are: Vulnerability, mentorship, diverse thought and perspective, personal & professional growth and a whole lot more. Tune into the 50th episode of the Kitchen Table!
Battalion Chief Jarrod Sergi of Norfolk Fire Rescue (VA) and author of the book "No Nonsense Leadership," A Realistic Approach for the Company Officer talks "There is no greater privilege than the privilege to lead people." Jarrod talks about how being an instructor is one of the most important roles in a company officer. He also talks accountability, time management and the fact that company officers are walking leadership development programs for your fire department.
Deputy Chief Chris Stewart formally of the City of Phoenix Fire Department talks "No more good dudes" leadership in the fire service. It takes so much more than being just a good dude or good gal to be a strong leader. You must be highly credible and highly competent to be effective. Chris says, "Operational effectiveness and safety must go hand in hand, not either/or." He also talks the 4 components of an accountability model. Be curious, not judgmental. Culture matters!
Deputy Assistant Chief Frank Leeb (ret.) of the New York City Fire Department talks the "Winning Mindset." He unpacks his cornerstones of leadership: Training, Teamwork & Mentorship. Mentorship in the FDNY is engrained in their DNA. Departments and its people must make mentorship a part of their everyday culture. Competency is a must, but soft skill leadership development is also a must, in all leaders, at all levels. Make sure you celebrate your wins and celebrate your people!
Fire Chief Dennis Doan of Gig Harbor Fire & Medic One talks about the 5 dysfunctions of a team. Your first team should be the team that you are on, not the team that you lead. You gotta step up if you want to make positive change. No silos, leaders must weigh in to have buy in. Everyone should strive for the platinum rule, "Treat people how THEY would like to be treated!" Chief Doan challenges all leaders to make excellence a priority in "every" thing we do. If not now, then when?
Fire Chief Tony McGuirk (ret.) of several fire departments in the United Kingdom and one of the original founders of the Community Risk Reduction concept talks extensively about the "What if" in delivering customer service as a fire service. He discusses ways in which the United Kingdom continues to put the community "first" in several of its innovations. He encourages that everyone need be a customer of the fire service service within the first 20minutes of a fire. He discusses the 0, 2, 5, 20 model in Community Risk Reduction.
Battalion Chief Corley Moore of the Moore Fire Department in Oklahoma, Founder of Firehouse Vigilance, "The Never Ending Battle to Fight Complacency," as well as host of the fire service leadership podcast, "The Weekly Scrap," joins the Kitchen Table to talk about fighting complacency. Author of the book, "The 9 L's" and "Challenge your Leadership," both are must have's in any leader's library. Consistency beats intensity every day of the week, and one must be mindful of where they put their energy. Chief Moore offers highly inspirational quotes as well as other must-read books on leadership, influence and culture. Chief emphasizes that leaders must always be present and supportive of those in their lead!
Deputy Chief Steve Prziborowski (ret.) of Santa Clara County Fire Department and president and founder of code3firetraining, talks about his new book Courage Under Fire Leadership. Concepts unpacked include the followership crisis, how trying to get everyone to like you is a sign of mediocrity as well as having haters is simply the cost of leadership! Steve encourages leaders to "have" a mentor(s) and also to "be" a mentor to others. Chief truly believes that everyone has something to contribute, regardless of your tenure or rank in the fire service. Leaders should find their niche and find ways to contribute, either by mentoring others, teaching classes, writing articles or even books. Steve quotes former U.S. Secretary of State "Being responsible sometimes means pissing people off." Catch your people doing things right!
Captain Troy Gibson of Hawai'i Fire Department talks about your wolfpack. Do you have one? If not, get one. Build relationships with people inside and outside your fire department, so you don't find yourself in an echo chamber. Make sure those in your wolfpack are honest with you, tell you what you need to hear, not what you want to hear, challenge them while they challenge you to become the best firefighter you could be. When you need help, ask for it, early and often. Listen to your people and be ok with not always having the answer to something. Be comfortable being uncomfortable!
Captain Anthony John (AJ) of South King Fire & Rescue out of Federal Way, Washington dives deep into mentorship and simply being intentional about what it is that you want to do. This includes having an all in attitude, building your relationships and with how you lead and mentor others. Leaders must always be listening and seeking out as many opportunities to learn about a diverse range of topics while always keep an open mind. AJ challenges all leaders to go out and do something with your crews off shift as that is where the foundation of success begins!
Retired Captain Bob Shannon of Las Vegas Fire & Rescue emphasizes that your organization is perfectly designed to get the outcomes that they are getting, as every organization has a leadership curriculum, formal and intentional, or accidental and by default. Bob dives into the two types of leaders: Positive impact leaders and negative impact leaders. Bob describes the leadership power quadrant including Emotional Intelligence & self-mastery, trust, accountability and effective communication. "You get what you accept, not what you expect!"
Disney Executive Lee Cockerell reveals the magic of Disney customer service. From poor farm kid to running Disney operations, Lee talks about the importance of having a good attitude, being reliable and having empathy. EVERYONE is watching! The secret is to hire the right people, train them right and treat them right! Don't underestimate your influence in the world, negative or positive, and don't underestimate what you can achieve in your life. Go be great!
Fire Chief Matthew Vinci of Vashon Island Fire & Rescue talks about the importance of networking, building relationships and listening to perspectives in order to get things done. Everybody at the table adds value, whether you agree or disagree with them and the lack of inclusion is simply a non-negotiable. Matthew talks about the strength in "pausing" in decision-making. The 24hr rule is often necessary, not just for yourself to think things through, but also to allow your team to think things through. "If you take care of your people, they will take care of the community!"
Fire Chief Mark Emery (ret.) of East Valley Fire District talks the Essentials of Honorable Leadership. He emphasizes that leadership is not synonymous with management and supervision, and leaders must differentiate between the two. Leadership is the influence of yourself and you take it with you everywhere you go. He quotes legendary coach and leader John Wooden in that "Success is peace of mind that is a direct result of self satisfaction and knowing that you make the effort to do the best of which are capable." Chief Emery also talks Integrated Tactical Accountability System (ITAC), Risk Assessment, the Passport Accountability System and more!
Battalion Chief Gary Barker of Valley Regional Fire Authority and Training Battalion Chief of Operations at the South King County Fire Training Consortium dives into "Old School Leadership" philosophies. Gary talks about how to become a respected officer, as well as the two traits that the most effective officers have in common: Being good at your job & being good with people! He emphasizes that many officers have one or the other, and to become a strong leader, one must strive to become competent in both!
Battalion Chief Ben Thompson of Birmingham Fire Department in Alabama unpacks his leadership philosophy on "to lead is to live dangerously." Don't become the lid and if you don't find yourself tired at the end of the day, you aren't doing enough as a leader. If you promote and you get the sense or feeling that you've "made it," you will not be an effective leader. Chief Thompson also emphasizes that if you are the best person for a particular job or position, you should put yourself in that position instead of looking for a way out, because as leaders, it is your duty to serve.
President Maia Earle and Dr. Brittany Hollerbach of The Beltane Guild join the show to discuss firefighter reproductive health. The nonprofit organization works in collaboration with firefighters and researchers from across the country to raise awareness, improve safety measures, re-write policy to protect our nation’s firefighters and provide grants to firefighters needing fertility treatment. Maia and Brittany talk about some modifiable risk factors, as well as the importance of being advocates within your department regarding the benefits for employees even if it does not affect you directly. The Beltane Guild has resources and information for you today. Visit www.thebeltaneguild.org for more!
Fire Chief Jason Hoevelmann of Florissant Valley Fire District in Missouri discusses how leadership is a practice due to constant changes and adaptive challenges. He states, "Would you want your lawyer or surgeon to be one who has practiced law or medicine in the past, or is "currently" practicing today? Chief expands upon integrity meaning doing the right thing all the time and not just when no one is looking. He also states that you cannot expect yourself in others. Everyone has a role and you must meet people where they are at. Great leaders must be aggressive!
Deputy Fire Chief (ret.) Emon Usher of the City Richmond Fire Dept. in California and coaching cadre with the Firefighter Inspiration Readiness & Education Team joins us and calls for all firefighters to always remember your oath, look to serve and to serve well. Good leaders should be visionaries, be vulnerable and should speak with the 3 C's: Command, Clarity & Common Sense. Leader's must step up to the mic!
Dr. Bruce Avolio, PhD., Mark Pigott Chair in Business Strategic Leadership within the Foster School of Business at the University of Washington & co-director of the Seattle Fire Dept. Executive Leadership Academy talks about how rank at times can get in the way of others having a "voice," (or psychological safety), and that leaders must be aware that sometimes the least experienced person in the room is the voice we ought to be listening to. Bruce also talks the 1st principle in the most trusted professions, "other centeredness." The fire service and its leaders must maintain "other centeredness," by continuing to evolve and change throughout a career. "It ain't over til it's over." You don't give up, you keep pushing forward and make sure you maximize all the wisdom and smart things and people around you that know things to help you get you to where you want to be.
Christina Fong, PhD, Associate Dean of Undergraduate Programs at the University of Washington Foster School of Business and co-director of the Seattle Fire Department Executive Leadership Academy talks the growth mindset, identity and power differences.. She emphasizes how strong psychologically safe organizations invest in cohesion and have mechanisms in place for learning from one another, providing feedback and tracking progress. Christina encourages leaders to find and make strong relationships with people who are very different than you.
Megan Lautz, RD., registered dietitian and strength coach with Fairfax fire and police, talks the power of nutrition in leadership. Vulnerability in nutrition and fitness is key in strong leaders when looking for support in your nutritional habits. Megan talks caffeine, calories on the run, timing of eating, easy firehouse recipes and understanding that priorities may change throughout your career. She also discusses the importance of knowing how to cook and tips on portion control.
Editor in Chief of Fire & Rescue Media David Rhodes dives into how building trust and relationships and being competent are must-have's in a great leader. Chief Rhodes is a retired battalion chief of the Atlanta (GA) Fire Department as well as a chief elder for the Georgia Smoke Diver Program and he encourages emerging leaders to think outside the box by going outside your organization to take classes, to teach classes, become an instructor and to seek additional development to become a well-rounded leader. He talks about the concept of loyal disobedience in driving true positive change for the betterment of the whole.
Kevin Thomas McCarney, author of the best selling book "Big Brain, Little Brain," how to control which one speaks for you, teaching us how to use simple techniques to control our response to win positive, Big Brain legacies. The book identifies the twenty-one tools your Big Brain can tap into for better communication, as well as the fourteen avoidable traps that your Little Brain will constantly set for you. Most importantly, it will show you how to find your "neutral," giving you the time and focus you need to find the right words even in the most pressure-filled encounters. Gaffes will become a thing of the past, and great communication will become your trademark!
Dr. Mark Abel, Ph.D., director of the First Responder Research Laboratory at the University of Kentucky and Member of the Portuguese Police Research Center (ICPOL) conducts research to enhance the safety, health, and readiness of firefighters and law enforcement officers. Mark owns Tactical Fitness Institute, LLC which develops legally defensible physical ability standards for fire departments and law enforcement agencies. Among his plentiful research, Dr. Abel performs research into implementing healthcare practitioners into fire departments as part of overall health and wellness initiatives.
Lieutenant Annette Zapp of Fire Rescue Wellness talks about the 4 pillars of wellness for firefighters: 1) Sleep, 2) Nutrition, 3) Exercise and 4) Mental Health. She encourages all to build a solid foundation early in your fire service career as you will never be less busy than when you were first hired. Find a good culturally competent counselor early, don't wait until you are struggling, and focus on the 4 pillars to maintain your wellness. As a former biochemist who wandered into the fire service in her 30's, she encourages you to put yourself in places where you feel like you don't belong, say yes to things, and figure out the rest of it later.
Battalion Chief Rob Fisher of Snohomish Regional Fire & Rescue and c0-founder of Young Officers on Fire talks about the importance of building relationships in the fire service. He emphasizes to young firefighters to know the trade before learning the tricks, and for young officers to learn how to communicate well in all aspects. Chief Fisher emphasizes the following: Pick up the phone and talk to people, meet with people face to face, plan and organize. If it's important, put it on the calendar, don’t find the time, make the time. Invest time bonding in non-work stuff, give and receive appreciation more frequently, and lastly, always stay authentic,
Former global director of the Walt Disney Company and former City of Woodinville fire commissioner Ben May talks about knowing yourself and taking care of yourself first and then you will be able to help others. Ben emphasizes the importance of community risk reduction as that is the future of the fire service. Much like the Walt Disney philosophy in providing customer service that is second to none, don't worry about what you are going to get, but instead worry about what you are going to provide. "Ayn Brera. No choice. No choice but to be excellent. No choice but to do the right thing."
Deputy Chief Michael Despain of Redmond (Wa.) Fire Dept. talks about building community trust, remembering exactly who the customers are and who the service providers are. Chief dives into organizational steps to DEI work, how culture change is slow, but baby steps are key and how putting time and money behind important work must be a priority. Your test as a leader, a company officer, and a chief officer starts the day you become a firefighter.
City of Issaquah, Washington Mayor Mary Lou Pauly offers perspectives on authenticity in being a leader. Be humble, do research, be patient, rely on your team and listen intentionally when serving others to truly hear people's needs. To be authentic, you must put yourself out there, expose yourself, take chances, being ok to say you don't know and never assume you know someone else's perspective. Leaders must embrace difficult conversations and include others in decision making so you do things with them and not to them.
Manny Romero of Seattle Fire Dept talks about the recruit prep and fire prep programs that help prepare recruits for drill school. He touches on the adult learning environment, raising the floor and giving more opportunity to their candidates to be successful. Manny also talks about 3 primary components to a sound health & wellness program for firefighters which are: Aerobic capacity, joint mobility and physical strength. "Random workouts create random results." He emphasizes that having a robust and intentional recovery program and stress management plan is vital in helping you live and work a healthy career and quality of life in retirement.
Captain Benjamin Martin of Henrico County Division of Fire, Virginia talks about followership being more important than leadership. Leaders must have the ability to demonstrate being a good follower in order to be a good leader. Leaders must thrive to explain the why and the why not in a decentralized format to offer the big picture in interacting with each other on the fire ground and in the fire house. Captain Martin dives into psychological safety in creating high performing teams and organizations and leaders are responsible for creating that environment by modeling behavior.
Division Chief Mark Sawdon of King County Medic One shares a personal story regarding sleep, mental health and emotional trauma as it relates to the job and the importance of self-awareness and recognition of self-change. He talks about listening to our peers, spouses and family members regarding normalizing the conversation on mental health.
Police Lieutenant (ret.) Eric Rosoff, founded the Career Survival Group and has been helping save careers since 2006. His team has coined the term, "You can lose your life on the fire ground, but you can lose your career in the fire house." Eric emphasizes the importance of understanding your department’s code of conduct, administrative and the in-the-station expectations just as you would the operational ones. Administrative safety violations are the root of most firefighter personnel actions, terminations, and workplace lawsuits. These are all stressful and costly events that impact morale and public trust. Additionally, administrative safety violations frequently derail the agency’s efforts at recruitment and inclusion. "Do your administrative pushups!"
Fire Chief (ret.) Rick Lasky of Lewisville, Texas Fire Department, author of best selling books "Pride & Ownership" and "5 Alarm Leadership," emphasizes that leaders must always strive to be better, continuously hone their craft, keep learning, keep training, pick the greatest firefighters and officers to emulate and never forget that it is all about your people! Passion drives success, ego and power kill positions, and negativity kills the greatest of organizations. In Chief Lasky's words, if you don't have integrity you suck! Firefighter's must have the love for the job, otherwise go work somewhere else.
Deputy Chief (ret.) Frank Viscuso of Kearny, Fire Dept., New Jersey, author of Amazon Best Sellers "Step up and Lead," and "Step up your Teamwork," emphasizes that anything is possible, nothing is out of reach, and that you don't need anyone's permission to make your dreams happen. Leaders will not reach their potential unless you get uncomfortable and fail along the way. Leaders must have difficult conversations to ignite the fire in others. Chief Viscuso unpacks the 4 step process in developing your ability to lead, the 6 reasons why people work, and the 8 steps to building strong teams. "A leader of one can become a leader of many, but if you can't lead one, you'll never lead any!"
Captain Jon Goins w/ Seattle Fire Dept. encourages all firefighters to get involved early and staying involved to learn and to grow. Leaders must work toward being someone worthy of being followed and looked up to, and always remember why we are here. Leaders must be competent, consistent and fair, and it's a leaders job to teach and to mentor.
Fire Chief (ret.) Jeff Clark of Eastside Fire & Rescue talks about being present and engaged early and often throughout your entire career. He suggests entering in dialogue and always ask questions. Chief Clark talks about how leaders must be willing to listen, admit when they are wrong, and be humble enough to change their opinion or decision on the fly if needed. He adds that leaders from all ranks must strive and do the requisite work in getting to yes by being able to put yourself in others shoes, assume others positions and thought processes and learning a new perspective for a unified commitment. "Go to the Balcony!"
Clinical Psychologist Dr. Kira Mauseth unpacks many of the behavioral issues with first responders. She talks about what peer support teams could do, the importance of setting boundaries and knowing when a peer supporter should be looking to listen vs looking to fix. Dr. Mauseth asks everyone the rhetorical question: How much time and hours are you spending in restorative care and recovery vs. escaping and avoiding your problems. She emphasizes that leaders of all ranks must walk the talk when talking and prioritizing behavioral and mental health of first responders.
Battalion Chief Brett Loomis w/ Corvalis Fire Department and Trainfirefighters.com, talks 50,000 shades of leadership. He talks about putting yourself out there and making mistakes as they ultimately help you grow. Chief Loomis emphasizes the importance of being of significance to others over being successful of self.
Retired Captain Dan Willis from La Mesa Police Department in San Diego, California talks emotional survival with first responders. Captain Willis authored the book Bulletproof Spirit: The First Responders Essential Resource for Protecting and Healing Mind and Heart,” which is a required reading at the FBI National Academy. Captain talks youth leadership in the community, as well as leading during mass change.
"Comfort is the Enemy to Growth," as quoted by Lt. Aaron Fields with Seattle Fire Dept. in his speech at FDIC 2017 upon accepting the "Instructor of the Year" Award. Aaron fields is the founder of "Nozzle Forward," and unpacks how there is no such thing as informal leadership, in that all kinds of leadership is formal regardless of a rank, and that leadership is a necessity within all ranks. Lt. Fields discusses leadership, mentorship and instruction, and the passion that is needed within all.
Fire Chief Harold Scoggins of Seattle Fire Department helps us unpack the work and how to have conversations around Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Fire Service. He discusses the importance of building relationships at all ranks. To become a great leader, he suggests one keeps an open mind, keeps learning, becomes educated, stays curious, is very courageous, and always looks for new ways to serve.
Assistant Chief Kris Larson of Los Angeles City Fire Department helps us navigate around diversity, equity and inclusion in the fire service and being an authentic leader. She helps us unpack the importance of equity, recruitment, hiring, diversity in the workforce and creating an environment that is psychologically safe for everyone to thrive.
Deputy Chief Aaron Tyerman of Puget Sound Regional Fire Authority talks about becoming exceptional at what you do by surrounding yourself with exceptional people. He talks vulnerable leadership, generational leadership, as well as staying infinitely curious in this profession and with people to grow as a leader.
Retired Battalion Chief Anthony Kastros out of Sacramento, California discusses the leadership pandemic in the modern-day fire service. He discusses the current leadership gap and the growing need to build more leaders organically. He talks about how taking initiative and setting the example are the keys to bridging this much needed gap of leadership.
Fire Chief Greg Tryon with Central Valley Fire District in Belgrade, Montana talks about the concept of leadership of self and how deliberate practice of self-awareness and regulation of your own thoughts, actions and behaviors will help you grow and become an effective leader. He also discsusses the importance of having difficult conversations, early and often.
Division Chief Andrew (Andy) Tait of King County Medic One talks about his journey into leadership and the many missed opportunities; likely because his constant negativity and pessimism limited true potential - ultimately damaging relationships. A raw admission of Andy's career development and leadership failures and how he turned things around. What NOT to do as an emerging leader.
Assistant Chief Pete Brummel of East Jefferson Fire & Rescue talks Dynamic Leadership: Learning & Leading in Today's Fire Service!