92. MIKE WASSING

In this episode of The Courage to Lead Interview Series, Allan Sicard speaks with Mike Wassing, Commissioner of the NSW State Emergency Service. Mike leads an organisation of more than 11,100 volunteers across 262 units, supported by over 600 staff, with responsibility for floods, storms and tsunamis across New South Wales. This conversation explores Mike’s leadership journey from under-16 cricket captain, park ranger and Country Fire Authority officer, through to senior emergency management roles in Victoria, Queensland and now NSW. Mike shares powerful insights on volunteer leadership, listening, being present, building trust, learning from mistakes, supporting people through crisis, mental health in emergency services, community resilience and the future of disaster management. His three leadership words are humility, empathy and courage — values that sit at the heart of this thoughtful and deeply human conversation. Follow Allan Sicard on LinkedIn, Instagram and ALLANSICARD.COM. The Courage to Lead - The Book Listen now to The Courage to Lead Podcast and explore more stories of leaders who are redefining courage into action, empowering others to create supportive and inclusive workplaces where people can thrive.