Project Command

n this episode of Project Command, we take a step back and look at what actually moves the needle inside a fire department. We talk about how to get real buy-in on projects and how to build momentum when there is little or no initial support. This is not theory. It is what works when you are trying to move people, resources, and priorities in a complex organization. This episode is driven by questions from you. I enjoy doing these Q and A and AMA style episodes because they keep me accountable to the topics you actually want to hear about. It also gives me a chance to address what is happening in your departments right now, not just what sounds good on paper. We break down the characteristics of effective leadership in today's fire service and what separates leaders who create progress from those who stall it out. The conversation also covers common mistakes departments continue to make, especially when it comes to technology decisions, communication breakdowns, and misalignment between leadership and the field. We spend time on where technology is heading and what it actually means for operations, training, and decision making. That leads into a direct conversation about AI. Is it overhyped, or are departments underestimating how quickly it will impact the job If you are involved in leading projects, implementing change, or trying to improve how your organization operates, this episode will give you practical insight you can apply immediately

In this episode of Project Command, I sit down with Jared Vermeulen to talk about leadership in the modern fire service and what it really takes to build something that lasts. Jared is the author of The Modern Fire Officer and Building Legacy That Endures, and this conversation dives deep into the ideas behind both books. We move beyond tactics and operations and focus on the leadership skills that often get overlooked but ultimately determine long-term success. We discuss the importance of soft skills in leadership, including communication, emotional intelligence, trust building, and influence. These are the skills that shape culture, drive performance, and determine whether an organization improves or stays stuck. We also talk about what chiefs and organizational leaders need to understand in 2026. The job is changing. Expectations are higher. The environment is more complex. Leaders who rely only on traditional approaches are going to struggle. Jared lays out what leaders need to focus on now to stay effective in the years ahead. This is a conversation about leadership that goes beyond rank, beyond title, and beyond the fireground. It is about building people, building systems, and building a legacy that actually endures. If you are serious about leadership, this one is worth your time. Check out Jared's books here: The Modern Fire Officer: https://a.co/d/0fWpY99k  Building Legacy That Endures: https://a.co/d/0iu0bMvQ  As always, we do not run ads. If you find value in the show, share it with someone else in the fire service.

Recorded live from FDIC, this episode of Project Command features Duke Cuneo sitting down with firefighter Jeff Lenard from the Washington, D.C. Fire Department to break down one of the most complex and tragic incidents in recent memory. They walk through the January 2025 midair collision involving a commercial passenger jet and a Black Hawk helicopter over Reagan National Airport, examining what happened, how responders managed the incident, and the operational challenges faced in the moment. The conversation goes beyond the headlines. Duke and Jeff dig into the technology that played a role in the response, from aviation tracking tools to on-scene coordination systems, and how those tools helped shape decision making during a rapidly evolving disaster. They also talk through key lessons learned, including communication, interagency coordination, and the realities of operating in a dense urban environment with overlapping jurisdictions. The episode wraps with a look at emerging technology in search and rescue and special operations, and how departments can start thinking now about integrating these tools before the next major incident occurs. If you are involved in operations, command, or planning, this is a grounded, real-world discussion on what works, what breaks, and what needs to improve. As always, we do not run ads. If you find value in the show, share it with someone else in the fire service.

Recorded live from FDIC, this episode features a conversation with Bailey Farren, founder and CEO of Perimeter, about what is actually happening with AI in the fire service right now. We get into how her company is using AI to support fire departments, where agencies are seeing real value, and where things are still more hype than reality. Bailey shares what she has observed from working across departments, including how AI is being used globally and how those use cases compare to what we are seeing here in the United States. We also talk about the broader technology landscape. What trends are gaining traction, what leaders should be paying attention to, and where departments can get caught behind if they are not careful. This is a practical conversation. Less theory, more real-world application. If you are trying to understand how AI fits into your organization and what comes next, this one will give you a clear picture.

An ongoing conflict involving Iran has created significant disruptions to global energy markets and supply chains that directly affect fire and EMS operations. In this episode, Peter breaks down what that means on the ground for fire service leaders, using current data from the EIA, FBI, DHS, and other authoritative sources. We cover the real numbers on fuel costs and what diesel prices have done over the last 30 days, the damage to Gulf energy infrastructure and why a ceasefire does not mean prices snap back, how the just-in-time pharmaceutical supply chain puts EMS medications at risk right now, what the Houthi Red Sea campaign taught us about how slowly shipping and insurance markets recover after a conflict, where fire service PPE and EMS medications actually come from and which ones are most vulnerable, and what federal agencies including the FBI, DHS, and CISA are saying about the domestic security threat. If you lead a fire department, run EMS operations, or manage public safety budgets, this episode gives you the situational awareness you need to start planning today. Episode Citations: 1.    U.S. Energy Information Administration. (2026, April 7). April 2026 Short-Term Energy Outlook. https://www.eia.gov/outlooks/steo/       2.    American Automobile Association. (2026, April 17). AAA gas prices. https://gasprices.aaa.com/       3.    U.S. Central Command. (2026, April 11). U.S. forces start mine clearance mission in Strait of Hormuz [Press release]. https://www.centcom.mil/MEDIA/PRESS-RELEASES/Press-Release-View/Article/4457220/us-forces-start-mine-clearance-mission-in-strait-of-hormuz/       4.    FBI. (n.d.). The Iran threat. https://www.fbi.gov/investigate/counterintelligence/the-iran-threat       5.    Department of Homeland Security. (2025, June 22). National Terrorism Advisory System bulletin. https://www.dhs.gov/ntas/advisory/national-terrorism-advisory-system-bulletin-june-22-2025       6.    Yadav, P., & Hirschfeld, A. (2026, March 20). Where the Iran war could disrupt pharmaceutical supply chains. Think Global Health. https://www.thinkglobalhealth.org/article/where-the-iran-war-could-disrupt-pharmaceutical-supply-chains       7.    Burnett, K., Li, K., Basquel, L., & O'Connor, C. (2026, April 14). 15 charts that explain why the Strait of Hormuz shutdown matters for the global economy. Atlantic Council. https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/dispatches/15-charts-that-explain-why-the-strait-of-hormuz-shutdown-matters-for-the-global-economy/       8.    Morley, E. (2026, November 27). Red Sea risk: Why maritime insurance won't return to "normal" anytime soon. Kpler. https://www.kpler.com/blog/red-sea-risk-maritime-insurance       9.    SolAbility. (2026, April 11). Gulf crisis 2026: The daily cost of the closure of the Strait of Hormuz (Day 42 model). https://solability.com/news-insights/iran-war-marginal-cost       10.   U.S. Pharmacopeia. (n.d.). Over half of the active pharmaceutical ingredients for prescription medicines in the U.S. come from India and the European Union. Quality Matters Blog. https://qualitymatters.usp.org/over-half-active-pharmaceutical-ingredients-api-prescription-medicines-us-come-india-and-european​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​  

In this special Q&A episode of Project Command, we dive straight into questions from our listeners in the fire service and beyond. We discuss one of the biggest challenges facing departments—how to effectively scale project management without losing control or clarity. We also break down practical strategies for managing the firefighter schedule within active projects, balancing operational demands with long-term initiatives. Finally, we explore the hard truths behind why projects fail in the fire service, uncovering common pitfalls and how to avoid them. Whether you're leading change or supporting it, this episode is packed with actionable insights from the field.

Fire departments operate in environments where competence, trust, and consistency can mean the difference between life and death. Because of that reality, change inside the fire service is often far more difficult than leaders expect. In this episode of Project Command, Captain Peter Younes explores why fire departments frequently struggle to implement lasting change. The discussion breaks down several structural and cultural factors that make change difficult in high reliability organizations like the fire service. The episode begins by examining why firefighters often resist change. Resistance is frequently misunderstood as negativity or stubbornness, but in many cases it is a rational response to operational risk. Firefighters build their performance on familiarity with their crew, their equipment, and their environment. When those elements change, competence temporarily drops. This creates what can be described as the proficiency tax. The conversation then explores how poor communication around the purpose of change erodes trust. When firefighters do not understand why a new system, policy, or procedure is being introduced, adoption suffers. Leaders must communicate the purpose of change clearly, repeatedly, and with real context. Another major factor is capacity for change. Individuals and organizations both have limits. Personal stress, fatigue, operational tempo, and multiple simultaneous initiatives can overwhelm even well designed improvements. The episode also looks at the doom loop described in Good to Great and how it often appears in the fire service through constant program shifts and trend driven initiatives. Without long term planning and strategic direction, organizations create change fatigue that undermines future efforts. Finally, the episode introduces a practical framework from the book Switch. Effective change requires addressing emotion, logic, and environment at the same time. If any one of these elements is ignored, even well intentioned initiatives can fail. If you lead projects, programs, or operational initiatives in the fire service, understanding how change actually works may be one of the most important leadership skills you develop.

In this special guest appearance, Peter Younes, host of the Project Command podcast, is interviewed by Chief Eric Linnenburger on the Ops Talk podcast. We are bringing this conversation to the Project Command feed because it digs deep into the core mission of what we do here: applying professional project management to the high-stakes world of public safety. Peter and Chief Linnenburger discuss why the "fireground mentality" is a double-edged sword when it comes to administrative and operational projects. They break down the essential value of systems, the psychological hurdles of implementing new technology in a traditional culture, and the specific friction points that cause complex projects to stall in the fire service. Highlights of the Interview: The Project Management Gap: Why tactical excellence doesn't always translate to the office—and how to bridge it. Systems as a Foundation: Moving from a "hero culture" to a "systems culture" for long-term reliability. Tech Adoption: How to introduce new software and tools without losing the buy-in of the rank and file. Operational Projects: Defining the projects that actually move the needle for a modern department.

In this episode of Project Command, Peter Younes sits down with Odean "Dean" Maye to talk about what it actually takes to scale ideas, teams, and technology in the real world. Dean shares lessons from startups, enterprise leadership, AWS, finance, and AI, then breaks down how leaders can separate hype from real business value. The conversation dives into practical AI adoption, why most organizations still have not figured it out, and how agentic AI is changing the way work gets done. Dean also explains why leaders should start with outcomes instead of tools, how to think like a systems builder, and why strong teams need a clear scoreboard. This is a grounded conversation on leadership, innovation, project execution, and the future of AI for organizations trying to move from curiosity to action.    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/odeanmaye Acuvero: https://www.acuvero.com Autonomous: https://atonomos.io

Episode Description Big problems often feel overwhelming because everything is stuck in our heads at the same time. In this episode of Project Command, Captain Peter Younes explains a simple framework for using artificial intelligence to turn complex problems into clear, actionable plans. Instead of staring at a problem and hoping inspiration strikes, AI can be used as a thinking partner to organize information, break challenges into manageable pieces, and build a step-by-step plan. Peter walks through his seven-step AI problem-solving framework that anyone can apply immediately: Get it out of your head Organize and review Break the problem into pieces Define goals and timeline Turn it into a to-do list Organize by sequence and priority Execute and iterate Whether you're leading a project, solving an operational problem, or trying to bring order to a complicated situation, this method shows how AI can help transform confusion into clarity.

In this episode of Project Command, we sit down with Dr. Johnny Torgeson—Operations Chief, leadership consultant, national speaker, and instructor—to talk about what leadership really looks like when it matters most. Drawing from his military experience and leadership roles in high-risk professions, Dr. Torgeson breaks down the difference between authority and leadership and explains why the most effective leaders focus on people first. The conversation explores practical leadership theory, the lessons he carried from the military into emergency services leadership, and how those lessons apply to modern organizations. We also dive into the importance of soft skills—communication, emotional intelligence, humility, and trust—and why they often matter more than technical expertise when leading teams under pressure. Dr. Torgeson shares real experiences, leadership failures that became learning moments, and actionable insights for leaders at every level. Whether you're an officer in the fire service, a military leader, or someone responsible for guiding a team, this episode offers practical strategies and honest reflections on building stronger leaders and stronger organizations.

In this episode of Project Command, I sit down with Samson Desessa, author of Brotherhood is a Verb, to talk about what real leadership looks like when it is tested under pressure. We explore his experience in the military and how it shaped his philosophy on mentorship, accountability, and taking care of your people. Samson shares what brotherhood truly means, why leadership is an action and not a title, and how consistent investment in others builds strong teams. We discuss the responsibility leaders carry, the importance of presence and example, and how mentorship creates lasting impact far beyond rank or position. This conversation is about discipline, ownership, and building cultures where people thrive.

Flash Points: Systems Make Heroics Possible When Team USA Men's Hockey captured Olympic gold, the spotlight fell on one unforgettable performance — goaltender Connor Hellebuyck delivering save after save with the game on the line. But championships aren't won by heroics alone. In this episode of Project Command: Flash Points, Lieutenant Duke Cuneo explores what fire service leaders and project managers can learn from Team USA's victory. Behind every defining moment is a disciplined system — one that creates clarity, reduces chaos, and allows individuals to perform at their highest level when it matters most. From the fireground to organizational change initiatives, leaders often hope talent, motivation, or individual effort will carry a project across the finish line. The reality is different: sustainable success comes from systems strong enough to support excellence under pressure. In this episode, you'll learn: Why heroics matter — but systems make heroics possible How Incident Command principles translate directly to project leadership The danger of relying on "saving the day" as an organizational strategy How clarity, alignment, and preparation create championship-level teams Great leaders don't eliminate heroics — they design environments where greatness can emerge without chaos. Because heroics win moments. Systems win championships. Project Command: Flash Points delivers quick, high-impact insights that turn big project management concepts into practical leadership tools for the fire service. 🎙️ Connect with us on LinkedIn for continued discussion and behind-the-scenes insights with Lieutenant Duke Cuneo and Captain Peter Younes. 📺 Watch video versions and extended content on the Project Command YouTube channel. 📧 Questions or future episode ideas? Email: [email protected]

n this episode of Project Command, I sit down with Scott Payne, PMP and Lean expert, who has helped more than 5,000 professionals earn their PMP certification and has led process improvement efforts across Fortune 500 companies. Scott shares what is hardest to teach new PMP students and what concepts deliver the most immediate value once applied in the real world. We discuss practical process optimization, how Lean thinking applies inside public safety organizations, and how to identify and eliminate technical debt before it cripples your team. Scott also explains how fire departments can establish a functional PMO, implement project management best practices, and avoid the common traps that derail initiatives. Drawing on his experience as a merchant marine, engineer, and project management consultant, Scott offers clear, actionable lessons for leaders who want to build stronger systems and deliver better outcomes.

AI Velocity: The New Leadership Advantage Artificial intelligence isn't improving gradually — it's accelerating. In this episode of Flash Points, Lieutenant Duke Cuneo breaks down what the recent surge in large language model capabilities really means for fire service professionals. This isn't about chatbots or convenience. It's about leverage. From long-document policy analysis to scenario simulation and executive brief generation, today's AI tools are compressing work that used to take days into minutes. And as AI begins to help train and refine future AI systems, that acceleration is only compounding. Duke explores how proficiency with AI may soon become a leadership differentiator — even influencing how promotional candidates are evaluated. What if assessment centers begin testing not just presentation skills, but your ability to frame problems, construct effective prompts, critique AI output, and integrate it with sound judgment? He also discusses the strengths of different models — including Claude's structured, long-document reasoning and ChatGPT's rapid iteration and strategic exploration — and why the most effective leaders won't rely on a single tool, but will learn to orchestrate multiple systems intelligently. AI won't replace fire officers. But officers who fail to learn how to leverage it may fall behind. The future Chief may not be the best presenter in the room — but the one who can orchestrate intelligence faster than anyone else.

In this special Q and A episode of Project Command, I answer your questions about artificial intelligence and how it applies to the fire service. We cover practical use cases for chiefs and company officers, policy and risk considerations, data security concerns, and how tools like ChatGPT can improve writing, decision making, project management, and communication. If you are trying to understand what AI actually means for your department and how to use it responsibly and strategically, this episode gives you clear, direct answers.   My ChatGPT Custom Instructions: Be supportive but strictly honest. Never mislead, exaggerate certainty, or offer false reassurance. Accuracy always comes first.   Rules: • Do not use em dashes. • Be concise, clear, and direct. • Match my tone. • Use bullets or numbered lists when helpful. • Avoid filler, fluff, and moralizing.   Answer structure: 1. Direct answer first. 2. Explanation second. 3. Extra context only if it adds real value.   Uncertainty: • Minimize caveats. • State uncertainty plainly when it exists. • If multiple interpretations exist, list them briefly and say which is most likely.   Defaults: • Prioritize precision and realism. • Assume I want actionable, credible answers. • Do not ask follow-up questions unless required to avoid being wrong.

In this episode of Project Command, I sit down with Lucy MacLeod, Borough Commander with the London Fire Brigade, USAR and technical rescue specialist, wellbeing dog handler, and author of the Lucy and Blue book series. We explore the key differences between the fire service in the United States and the United Kingdom, from terminology and rank structure to operational approaches and culture. Lucy shares insight into Urban Search and Rescue in the UK and how technical rescue capabilities are structured within the London Fire Brigade. We also dive deep into leadership and mentorship, including how senior officers can intentionally develop the next generation of fire service leaders. A major focus of our conversation is firefighter mental health and wellbeing, including Lucy's work as a wellbeing dog handler and how departments can create healthier, more resilient organizations. Finally, we discuss her children's book series, Lucy and Blue, how storytelling can shape the culture of the fire service. This episode offers a global perspective on fire service leadership, resilience, and the future of our profession.

Projects don't fail because people disagree. They fail because no one is sure who gets to decide. In this episode of Project Command: Flash Points, Lieutenant Duke Cuneo breaks down a hard leadership truth: consensus feels collaborative—but clarity drives results. On the fireground, we instinctively understand unity of command. Someone has it. Everyone aligns to it. Input flows. Adjustments are made. But authority is never in question. Yet in project work—especially in fire-EMS operations, staffing models, and policy changes—we often trade command for prolonged consensus. Meetings multiply. Feedback cycles expand. Alignment becomes the goal instead of progress. And slowly, the project drifts. This Flash Point explores: Why discussion without direction creates a vacuum The difference between input and ownership How indecision quietly erodes trust Why clarity is leadership—not authoritarianism Practical behaviors clear leaders demonstrate consistently Consensus can improve decisions. But clarity is what makes them happen. If you're leading a project right now, ask yourself: Have I been clear—or just inclusive? Clarity beats consensus. Every time.

In this episode of Project Command, Captain Peter Younes sits down with Keith Flip Griffin, a retired Navy Command Master Chief and nationally recognized expert in search and rescue and leadership. Drawing from decades of experience leading teams in high risk environments, Keith shares hard-earned lessons on leadership, trust, and what it really takes to build strong teams. The conversation focuses on mentorship, not as a title, but as an active responsibility. Keith explains what effective mentorship looks like in practice, how leaders earn credibility with their people, and why consistent presence matters more than rank. Together, they explore how these lessons translate directly to the firehouse, from company level leadership to executive decision making. This episode offers practical insight for fire officers who want to develop their people, strengthen their crews, and lead with purpose.

Frustration Is the Enemy Frustration doesn't just slow projects down — it quietly kills them. In this Flash Points episode, Lieutenant Duke Cuneo breaks down why frustration is often more dangerous than failure, resistance, or lack of resources. Drawing clear parallels between incident command and project leadership, this episode explores how unclear authority, stalled decisions, and unmanaged uncertainty create frustration that leaks downstream and erodes discipline. You'll learn why frustration is rarely a people problem and almost always a system signal — and what effective leaders do to absorb friction instead of transmitting it. From reducing ambiguity and defining clear lanes to naming the friction and shortening feedback loops, this episode delivers practical leadership tools you can apply immediately. Because clarity is the antidote. And leadership is the filter.

Grant writing is one of the most important and most frustrating tasks in the fire service. In this episode of Project Command, I break down my seven step grant writing process and show exactly how ChatGPT and other AI tools can support you at every stage. From identifying needs and aligning projects with funding priorities, to drafting narratives, strengthening justifications, and refining final submissions, AI can save time, improve clarity, and help you produce more competitive grant applications. This episode focuses on practical, real world use cases, not hype or theory. This is the fourth installment in the AI in the Fire Service series, following ChatGPT for Firefighters, ChatGPT for Fire Chiefs, and ChatGPT for the Fire Training Officer. If your department is short on time, staff, or grant writing experience, this episode provides a clear framework and ready to use ideas to help you get started.   Example AI Prompts Used in This Episode Prompt 1: Find and Rank Grants for Extrication Equipment You are acting as a grant research specialist for a municipal fire department. I am looking for grant opportunities that can fund the purchase of new extrication equipment. Please: Identify federal, state, local, and private grant programs that commonly fund fire service equipment or rescue tools Filter to grants open to municipal fire departments or public safety agencies Note which grants are currently open or have upcoming application windows, if available For each relevant grant, provide: Grant name Funding purpose Typical award amounts Key eligibility requirements Application timeline or cycle A direct link to the official grant website or application page Rank the grants based on alignment with purchasing extrication equipment. If exact deadlines are unavailable, include the most typical application periods based on past cycles. Present results in a clear table or bullet format. Prompt 2: Identify and Coordinate Grant Stakeholders You are acting as a project manager and grant coordination specialist for a municipal fire department. I am preparing a grant application to fund new extrication equipment. Please identify all internal and external stakeholders involved in both the grant application and post award project execution. For each stakeholder group, include: Their role in the grant process The information or support they provide When they should be engaged in the process Consider stakeholders across: Fire department leadership Operations and field personnel Finance and budgeting IT and data systems Procurement and logistics Training divisions Legal or compliance, if applicable Community partners or governing bodies, if applicable Present the results in a clear table or structured list that can be used as a stakeholder coordination plan. Prompt 3: Analyze Operational Data with Methodology and Assumptions You are acting as a data analyst and project evaluation specialist for a municipal fire department. I will provide four to five data tables related to department operations and project outcomes, such as incident volume, response times, equipment usage, training records, and costs. Please: Analyze each table to identify key trends and findings Cross analyze the tables to identify relationships or correlations Summarize insights that support a grant application or project evaluation Also include: A clear explanation of the methodology used A list of assumptions made during analysis Any limitations or data gaps that impact accuracy Present the results with: Key insights in bullet points Supporting references to the provided data A short methodology and assumptions section at the end The goal is transparent, defensible analysis suitable for grant narratives or reporting.

In this third installment of the AI in the Fire Service series on Project Command, we break down how fire training officers can use ChatGPT and other AI tools to improve training, organization, and program development. We start with a simple AI 101 overview to explain what artificial intelligence is and what it is not in plain language for the fire service. Then we dive into real world use cases for training officers, including: Building lesson plans and training presentations Creating drill ideas and multi company training evolutions Developing curriculum Supporting project management and long term training initiatives Saving time on administrative and organizational tasks Whether you are new to AI or following along with the series, this episode delivers practical, fire service focused ways to leverage AI tools to make your training program more efficient, consistent, and professional, while reinforcing that experience, leadership, and accountability remain the foundation of effective fire service training.

In this episode of Project Command we examine how fire chiefs and chief officers can use ChatGPT in 2026 as a practical decision support and executive productivity tool while maintaining professional judgment. We cover how AI can be used for targeted research to support strategic decision making policy development and revision and synchronizing complex documents across divisions agencies and governing bodies. The episode also explores using ChatGPT for data interpretation aggregation and structuring information so leaders can quickly identify trends risks and priorities. Finally we discuss how chiefs can use ChatGPT to design and structure meetings including agendas pre reading and objectives so participants arrive prepared aligned and ready to work on the issues that matter.

When chaos reigns, make your project an island of stability. Organizational chaos is not the exception in large systems — it's the environment. Leadership changes. Priorities shift. Direction arrives late, inconsistently, or through side channels. In this Flash Points episode, Lieutenant Duke Cuneo breaks down why successful projects don't wait for clarity from above — they create stability inside their own span of control. Drawing a direct parallel to complex incident management on the fireground, this episode focuses on how project managers can prevent organizational dysfunction from leaking into execution. You'll learn how to: Lock scope clearly without becoming inflexible Establish a steady project cadence when everything else is moving Separate noise from legitimate change Document decisions to protect your project's institutional memory Control communication so uncertainty doesn't infect the team This episode isn't about blaming leadership or complaining about dysfunction. It's about professionalism. Because chaos above you is not permission to run a sloppy project. When everything around you feels unsettled, structure becomes leadership — and boring projects are the ones that finish.

In this episode of Project Command, I'm joined by Jared Vermillion, author of The Modern Fire Officer, for a grounded conversation on what effective officer development really looks like in today's fire service. We dig into the soft skills that matter most for officers, including leadership, communication, conflict resolution, coaching firefighters, and building trust within a crew. Jared shares practical insights on developing people, navigating difficult conversations, and creating an environment where firefighters can grow and perform at a high level. This episode is ideal for current and aspiring officers who want to lead with intention, improve their influence, and become better leaders for their people.

If you don't measure it, you don't control it. On the fireground, measurement is non-negotiable. We track air, time, accountability, and benchmarks because guesswork gets people hurt. But too often, when we step into projects—that same discipline disappears. In this Flash Points episode, Lieutenant Duke Cuneo draws a direct line between fireground command and project management. Being busy doesn't mean you're making progress. Meetings, emails, and spreadsheets don't equal control. Data does. This episode breaks down why most projects don't fail dramatically—they quietly drift. Costs rise. Timelines slip. Outcomes shrink. And leaders can't explain why, because nothing was measured. You'll learn: Why unmeasured projects rely on hope instead of control How simple, usable metrics beat perfect data every time What SCBA air management teaches us about project performance Practical, repeatable indicators that bring clarity and accountability Measurement doesn't mean drowning your people in spreadsheets. It means asking the right questions, tracking what matters, and adjusting before surprises catch you off guard. Because whether you're running a fire or running a project, the rule never changes: What you don't measure, you don't control.

If it isn't assigned, it isn't going to happen. On the fireground, unassigned tasks don't magically get done — and projects are no different. In this Flash Points episode of Project Command, Lieutenant Duke Cuneo breaks down one of the most common (and quietest) reasons projects fail in the fire service: lack of ownership. Not bad ideas. Not missing funding. But the dangerous assumption that "someone else is handling it." Using clear fireground parallels, this episode challenges vague project language like "let's circle back" and "someone should probably own this" — and replaces it with a simple, tactical truth: until a task has a name next to it, it's just smoke. You'll learn: Why unassigned tasks create delays and resentment in projects How small gaps between ownership and execution stall progress The leadership difference between collaboration and accountability Why explicit ownership enables initiative instead of limiting it A simple test to keep your projects moving with momentum If you want your projects to run with the same clarity, purpose, and follow-through as a well-managed incident scene, this episode gives you a practical framework you can apply immediately. Because in projects — just like on the fireground — if it isn't assigned… it isn't going to happen.  Project Command: Flash Points delivers quick, high-impact lessons that turn big project-management concepts into everyday tools for the fire service. If you found this episode valuable, please like, share, or subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Questions or comments? Email us at [email protected]

In this episode of Project Command, Captain Peter Younes sits down with Alec Wons to discuss the lessons he has learned from interviewing over 100 fire and police chiefs across North America. Drawing from those conversations, Alec breaks down the common patterns he has seen in organizational culture, leadership, and decision making that directly impact firefighter wellness and a department's ability to get meaningful work done. The conversation explores why culture is often the deciding factor in whether initiatives succeed or stall, how leadership behaviors shape wellness far more than standalone programs, and what high performing public safety organizations consistently do differently. Alec also shares practical insights fire officers and administrators can apply immediately to build healthier teams, improve trust, and move complex projects forward without burning people out.

Artificial intelligence is quickly becoming one of the most valuable tools in the modern fire service — not because it replaces people, but because it gives them back time. In this episode of Project Command: Flash Points, Lieutenant Duke Cuneo breaks down why AI is emerging as a practical, everyday force multiplier for firefighters and officers. Drawing from a recent Project Command conversation with Captain Peter Younes, this Flash Point explores how understanding what AI can actually do changes the way leaders approach project work, planning, and administrative load. From drafting memos and lesson plans to simplifying NFPA language, building training materials, and supporting staffing or overtime analysis, AI is already helping departments close the gap between growing project demands and limited personnel. The key shift isn't technical skill — it's mindset. Artificial intelligence isn't a search engine. It's a work partner that turns context into clarity and ideas into action. This episode challenges leaders to stop viewing AI as a future concept and start recognizing it as a present-day tool for efficiency, consistency, and preparedness. AI won't replace firefighters — but firefighters who use AI will outperform those who don't. For a deeper dive, check out the full Project Command episode, ChatGPT for Firefighters — and share this Flash Point with someone in your department who's curious or skeptical about where this technology fits in the fire service. The future isn't coming. It's already here. We just get to decide how we use it.

In this episode of Project Command, I'm joined by Eddie Buchanan, creator of SLICE-RS, for a deep dive into how fire service ideas are built, tested, and scaled into real-world practice. We explore what drove the creation of SLICE-RS, how data and experience shaped its development, and what it takes to move from a fireground concept to an organizational system. Eddie also shares his perspective on what "data" really means in the fire service, how leaders should think about technology and AI, and why systems thinking is essential for navigating today's increasingly complex operational environment.

A project isn't finished when the work is done — it's finished when it's closed out. In the fire service, we know an incident doesn't end just because the flames are knocked down. We overhaul. We check for extension. We secure utilities. We give a final report. Only then does command terminate. Projects work the same way — yet closeout remains one of the most neglected phases of the project lifecycle in fire-EMS organizations. In this episode of Project Command: Flash Points, Lieutenant Duke Cuneo breaks down why project closeout is not paperwork, but a tactical necessity. From confirming objectives and documenting lessons learned, to effective handoff, leadership briefings, and celebrating the win, this Flash Point draws clear parallels between incident termination and disciplined project leadership. This episode challenges officers and project leaders to stop treating closeout as an afterthought and start using it as a tool for accountability, learning, and organizational momentum. Because projects that aren't properly closed don't disappear — they become loose ends that blindside the next shift, the next manager, or the next administration. Close your projects with the same clarity, discipline, and purpose you bring to the fireground — and leave the next crew better prepared than the last.

In this episode of Project Command, I'm joined by Kevin Henson, Deputy Chief of Staff for the John Fire District, for a wide-ranging conversation on technology, leadership, and execution in the fire service. We break down key takeaways from the IAFC Technology Summit 2025, discuss how emerging technology and AI can be used as a practical force multiplier, and explore the strong parallels between project management and the Incident Command System. Kevin also shares hard-earned lessons from projects he's led, including what worked, what didn't, and how fire service leaders can better translate strategy into results.

Welcome to Project Command: Flash Points- quick, sharp hits that turn big project management concepts into everyday tools for the fire service. Today's Flash Point: How a classic fireground rule can reshape the way we run projects.

In this episode of Project Command, we dive into The 90% Problem: The Hidden Cost of Technical Debt, a challenge almost every fire department faces but few talk about openly. Technical debt builds up every time we roll out a new project without completing the policies, training, communication, or documentation that make it sustainable. Over time, this "almost done" work creates operational confusion, slows down new initiatives, overloads project managers, and drains organizational bandwidth. We break down what technical debt looks like in the fire service, why the last 10 percent of a project is often the most important, and how unfinished work silently erodes efficiency across every section of the organization. You will hear practical strategies to identify technical debt, prevent it during new projects, and eliminate it from legacy systems, restoring clarity, reducing uncertainty, and improving your department's ability to execute big things. If your organization feels like it is drowning in loose ends or constantly reacting to problems created by unfinished work, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Project Command, we break down the 7 essential rules for working with your IT department. These are the rules every fire officer needs but most were never taught. From bringing IT the right problem instead of a pre-picked product, to understanding risk tolerance, lifecycle ownership, communication, and why tickets actually matter, this episode gives you a practical framework for building a strong partnership with the people who protect your systems. Whether you are rolling out software, deploying equipment, or managing major projects, these seven rules will help you reduce friction, avoid delays, and create safer, smoother, more successful technology initiatives across your department.  

In this episode of Project Command, Captain Peter Younes breaks down the full anatomy of a project using a real-world example: delivering CPR and Stop the Bleed training to 160 K–12 school security officers. Peter walks through the initiation, stakeholder identification, requirements gathering, planning steps, team formation, scheduling, budgeting, and execution. You'll hear how multiple divisions collaborated, how resources were secured, and how deadlines were managed as training dates approached. Whether you're a fire officer or project lead in any organization, this episode gives you a practical look at how to turn challenging requirements from multiple agencies into a fully executed project.  

On this episode of Project Command, Jason Patton joins us for a wide-ranging conversation that covers his journey with Fire Dept Coffee and Fire Dept Chronicles, the evolution of firefighter culture, and the growing focus on mental health in the fire service. We get into how humor, honesty, and community can support firefighters through the toughest parts of the job, and where the culture is heading next. Jason also shares his thoughts on the role of AI in the fire service and offers grounded, practical advice for anyone trying to launch new ideas or creative projects. It's an energizing, insightful discussion you won't want to miss.

In this episode of Project Command I sit down with Deputy Chief Eric Linnenburger for a candid conversation about the leap from operations to administration and everything that comes with it. We talk about the real challenges officers face when they move behind the desk, how to build credibility in an administrative role, and the habits that keep leaders connected to the crews doing the work. Chief Linnenburger shares practical lessons from major administrative projects, insights on communicating with teams across the organization, and the mindset that turns administrative assignments into career accelerators instead of career detours. We also dig into how AI is emerging as a powerful force multiplier in fire administration, helping leaders streamline processes, improve accuracy, and reduce workload so they can focus on high value priorities. This one is loaded with wisdom for anyone stepping into or supporting administrative leadership in the fire service.

On this episode of Project Command, we sit down with Fire Chief Brian Marcos from Smyrna, Georgia for a deep dive into what it really takes to bring project management into the fire service. Chief Marcos shares practical strategies for developing project management skills in your workforce, building a culture where project managers feel supported, and using technology to drive stronger project outcomes. Whether you are new to project management or leading multiple complex initiatives, this conversation gives you clear and actionable insights you can put to work right away.

In this episode of Project Command, we talk about ending projects the right way. A well-done project closeout report does more than mark the finish line. It captures valuable lessons that strengthen future projects and helps ensure a smooth transition from project to program. We break down the key elements of a strong closeout process that ties up loose ends, builds organizational knowledge, and sets your next project up for success.

Putting new equipment in service in the fire department takes more than just dropping it off at the firehouse. In this episode of Project Command, we break down how to deploy equipment the right way, from planning and communication to training, evaluation, and long-term adoption. Learn how to avoid rollout failures, engage your crews early, and make sure every tool or rig added to your fleet actually improves performance and safety on the fireground.

In this episode of Project Command, we uncover three game-changing concepts that can turbo-charge your projects. Learn how the Pareto Principle helps you focus on what really matters, how Parkinson's Law can keep you on track, and how the MoSCoW Method makes prioritization simple and effective. These tools are your cheat code for working smarter, not harder on your next project.

In this episode of Project Command, we're talking all about the scope — what it is, why it matters, and how to define it clearly from the start. We'll break down the key components of a strong scope statement, explore common pitfalls that lead to scope creep, and share practical tips to keep your project on track. Whether you're leading a small internal project or managing a large initiative, this episode will help you set clear boundaries and expectations for success.

In this episode of Project Command, we explore how ChatGPT can be a powerful tool for firefighters. You'll learn everything you need to get started, from basic setup to practical ways it can save time and improve communication, training, and reporting. If you're already using ChatGPT, we share useful prompts, real-world examples, and creative use cases to help you get even more out of it. Tune in to discover how AI can make your firefighting workflow smarter, faster, and more efficient.

In this episode of Project Command, we dive into Project Communication 101 — breaking down the who, what, when, where, and why behind effective communication in any project. From identifying key stakeholders to choosing the right channels and timing your updates, we unpack the core elements that keep teams aligned and projects on track. Whether you're leading your first initiative or refining your communication strategy, this episode gives you the blueprint for clarity, connection, and command in every phase of your project.

In this episode of Project Command, we dive into one of the most important phases of any fire service project: getting it started the right way. We walk through how to build a solid foundation using a charter document, define your project's scope from clear requirements, and then translate that scope into an actionable activity list, schedule, and budget, all explained in simple, practical terms. We also talk about how to establish your project's tempo and design a communications plan that keeps everyone aligned from day one. Whether you're launching a new program, piece of technology, or initiative in your department, this episode will help you start strong and set your project up for success.

In this episode of Project Command, Captain Peter Younes explores Why Some Fire Department Projects Succeed While Others Fail — and what you can do to make sure yours lands on the winning side. From lack of leadership support and unclear scope to poor risk forecasting and competing priorities, he breaks down the most common pitfalls that derail projects in the fire service. Then, he shares the five critical success factors that help teams deliver results: defining a clear scope, setting the right tempo, managing lead and lag time, building the right team, and establishing ownership. Whether you're rolling out new equipment, software, or training initiatives, this episode will help you bring command-level thinking to your next project — and see it through to success.

Episode 1: Welcome to Project Command In this first episode, Captain Peter Younes introduces Project Command, a podcast about getting things done in the fire service through better project management. Every day, fire departments take on projects — from new technology and programs to building stations and planning events. But too often, those projects lose focus or stall out. Peter explains why project management matters, what this podcast is all about, and what you can expect in future episodes. If you're a firefighter, officer, or chief who wants to turn ideas into action, this show is for you.