In this conversation, Buck Showalter shares his insights on leadership drawn from his extensive experience in baseball. He emphasizes the importance of learning from both successes and failures, the need for authenticity and trust in leadership, and the significance of developing young leaders. Showalter discusses the challenges leaders face, the role of intuition in decision-making, and the value of surrounding oneself with the right people. He concludes with a reminder that leadership is about real experiences and genuine connections.

takeaways

• Leadership lessons are universal across industries.
• Experience is gained through both successes and failures.
• Surrounding yourself with the right people is crucial.
• Effort is a key differentiator in performance.
• Trust is built through authenticity and honesty.
• Young leaders need guidance and strong examples.
• Intuition plays a significant role in decision-making.
• Delegating authority can strengthen leadership.
• Communication is vital in building relationships.
• Leadership is about real experiences and connections.

The conversation at the TEEX 2026 Leadership Symposium delves into the evolving landscape of leadership within the fire service, emphasizing the importance of mental health, generational differences, and the calling of firefighting as a vocation. Retired Chief Patrick Kenny shares insights on the need for supportive environments, the impact of personal stories, and the role of faith in navigating challenges. The discussion highlights the necessity of adapting leadership styles to meet the needs of new generations while fostering a culture of empowerment and understanding.

takeaways

• Leadership training is crucial for adapting to modern challenges.
• Generational differences impact workplace dynamics and expectations.
• Mental health awareness is essential in the fire service.
• Firefighting is more than a job; it's a calling.
• Creating a supportive work environment enhances retention.
• Empowering the next generation requires understanding their needs.
• Faith can play a significant role in coping with trauma.
• Personal stories can have a profound impact on mental health discussions.
• Retirees need continued support and resources post-career.
• Open conversations about the realities of firefighting are necessary.

This conversation features leaders from the San Bernardino County Fire Department discussing their experiences and insights on leadership, innovation, and the future of firefighting. They emphasize the importance of personal growth, empowerment, and adapting to new challenges in the fire service. The discussion also highlights the department's unique operational environment and their commitment to utilizing technology for safety and efficiency.

takeaways

• Leadership starts with you, change starts with you.
• The San Bernardino County Fire Department covers a vast and diverse area.
• Innovative leadership is crucial for adapting to new challenges.
• Empowerment within the organization fosters a proactive culture.
• Technology plays a significant role in enhancing firefighter safety.
• The department is known for its unique programs and initiatives.
• Collaboration between management and labor is essential for success.
• The future of firefighting will involve more technology and innovation.
• Cultural understanding is key when bringing in new leadership.
• The next generation of leaders is being developed within the department.

In this episode of the HC Leadership Podcast, hosts engage with attendees Jack Bode and Parker Forrest from Wise County ESD1, discussing their experiences at a leadership conference. They emphasize the importance of early leadership development, the challenges they face, and the significance of finding one's purpose in the fire service. The conversation highlights the dynamic nature of leadership and the value of networking and mentorship in personal and professional growth.

takeaways

• It's important to start developing leadership skills early.
• Leadership is not just about the title; it's about the team.
• Emotional intelligence plays a crucial role in effective leadership.
• Finding your 'why' enhances job satisfaction and clarity.
• Networking at conferences can lead to valuable connections.
• Leadership is a dynamic and ever-changing process.
• Young leaders should learn from the experiences of their seniors.
• It's okay to take breaks and prioritize self-care.
• Mentorship is vital for personal and professional growth.
• Building a supportive team culture is essential.

In this episode, Jason Corthell discusses his journey from a firefighter to a leader in mental health advocacy within the fire service. He emphasizes the importance of mental wellness for leaders and the younger generation's role in changing the narrative around mental health. Jason shares insights on engaging recruits, measuring the impact of mental health programs, and the significance of personal stories in inspiring hope and change.

takeaways

• Mental health is crucial for effective leadership.
• The younger generation is pivotal in mental health advocacy.
• Holistic approaches are necessary for mental wellness programs.
• Engaging families in the process enhances support.
• Measuring the impact of mental health initiatives is essential.
• Personal stories can inspire hope and change.
• Leaders often lack the resources to implement mental health programs.
• Conversations about mental health need to be ongoing and open.
• Candid discussions with recruits can normalize mental health topics.
• Cultural shifts in the fire service are beginning to take place.

In this episode, Dr. Ashby and retired Chief Deere discuss the importance of leadership, accountability, and culture within the fire service. They emphasize the need for both top-down and bottom-up approaches to foster a strong organizational culture. The conversation explores the challenges of hiring and promoting the right individuals, the mental health crisis in the fire service, and the systemic changes needed to improve leadership practices. Ultimately, they call for a renewed sense of purpose and ownership among firefighters to enhance the profession and support one another.

takeaways

• Leadership in the fire service requires accountability from all levels.
• Culture is a shared responsibility between leaders and firefighters.
• The fire service is evolving, and continuous learning is essential.
• Mental health is a critical issue that needs addressing in the fire service.
• Hiring practices must align with the values of the fire service.
• Leadership should focus on service to others, not self-interest.
• Systemic changes are necessary to improve organizational effectiveness.
• Finding purpose in the job can reignite passion for the fire service.
• Company officers play a crucial role in shaping the culture.
• There is a need for better training in leadership and communication.

In this episode of the HC Leadership Podcast, Jamie and Bob discuss their experiences and insights on leadership within the fire service. They emphasize the importance of understanding different perspectives across ranks, the evolution of leadership styles, and the critical role of communication in fostering effective leadership. The conversation highlights the need for leaders to empower their teams, measure their effectiveness through feedback, and maintain alignment between words and actions. Jamie and Bob also stress the significance of mentoring and supporting the next generation of leaders in the fire service.

takeaways

• Leadership is about understanding different perspectives across ranks.
• Effective communication is crucial for successful leadership.
• Leaders should empower their teams to make decisions.
• Measuring leadership effectiveness is subjective and based on feelings.
• Mentorship is essential for developing future leaders.
• Leaders must be approachable and open to feedback.
• Hard conversations are necessary for growth and understanding.
• Actions must align with words to build trust.
• Creating a culture of communication prevents misunderstandings.
• Leadership styles have evolved to be more inclusive and supportive.

In this episode of the HC Leadership Podcast, Todd Blylevin shares his profound journey from trauma to triumph, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability and mental health in leadership, especially within the first responder community. He discusses his experiences as a survivor of the Las Vegas shooting, the impact of trauma on individuals, and the necessity of sharing stories to foster understanding and support. Blylevin advocates for a shift in leadership culture that embraces emotional intelligence and resilience, encouraging leaders to be open about their struggles to create a safe environment for their teams. He highlights the compounding nature of trauma over a career and the need for proactive mental health support. Ultimately, Blylevin's message is one of hope, urging individuals to seek help and build strong foundations for personal and professional growth.

takeaways

• Todd Blylevin emphasizes the importance of sharing trauma stories.
• Everyone's trauma is valid, regardless of the experience.
• True leadership involves vulnerability and emotional openness.
• Leaders must model healthy emotional practices for their teams.
• Compounding trauma over a career can have significant effects.
• Mental health support is crucial for first responders.
• Creating a safe environment encourages open conversations about mental health.
• Resilience can be built through therapy and peer support.
• It's essential to recognize the impact of cumulative stress in first responders.
• Faith and therapy can work together in the healing process.