B1C Podcast

B1C Podcast – Episode 9: From 9-1-1 Dispatcher to Social Media Influencer In Episode 9 of the B1C Podcast, we sit down for a powerful conversation with Craig, a dedicated 9-1-1 dispatcher who has transformed personal experience, service, and advocacy into a growing platform of purpose. From answering crisis calls behind the headset to becoming the voice behind HitofTruth, Craig shares his journey of using social media to create something bigger than content—a community.This episode explores the realities of life as a telecommunicator, the experiences that shaped his mission, and why creating safe spaces for people to speak up, share their stories, and feel heard matters now more than ever. Craig’s platform is rooted in authenticity, support, and standing up for the first responder community. His mission is simple but powerful: give people a place to come as they are, tell their truth, support one another, and know they are not alone.Important Note: This episode is audio only. This is why we don't script... it is raw and real and recorded in the moment to capture real, unfiltered conversation, a technology failure challenged our process—but it didn’t stop the message. We pushed through and still delivered an incredible, impactful episode that we’re proud to share.Be sure to check out Craig on TikTok at @hitoftruth (Hit of Truth) — and like, follow, share, and support his mission to amplify voices, encourage honest conversations, and strengthen support for the first responder community. Join us for an honest and inspiring discussion about purpose, advocacy, resilience, and using your voice to make an impact.One story can start a conversation. One conversation can build a community.

Charles Dickinson II and I had the opportunity to sit down with Joy Hutchinson, Ph.D., LPC-MHSP, NCC, CCTP-II, EMT-P, for a powerful and honest conversation on the role of Employee Assistance Programs in the first responder community.This was not a surface-level discussion. We reviewed the gaps in EAPs, especially where they fall short in building trust, accessibility, and real impact for the men and women they are meant to support.What stood out most was the path forward.EAPs cannot exist as a standalone benefit. They must be part of a larger, intentional strategy that includes leadership training, strong and clearly written programs, and a balance of clinical and non-clinical support. Success also depends on connecting responders to validated resources at the local, regional, and national levels.This conversation challenged the idea of checking a box and pushed toward building systems that truly support mental health and wellness in our organizations.If you are in a leadership position, this conversation is worth reflecting on."Share your story. Because you matter."Visit our B1C Podcast YouTube Channel: B1C Podcast Channel#firstrepondermentalhealth #Mentalhealth #Leadershipdevelopment #PTSD #Employeeassistanceprograms 

WOW - A powerful Friday Night Live episodeBuilding Resilience: A Journey of Leadership, Coaching, and Peer Support in West VirginiaThis Friday Night Live featured a powerful and emotional conversation with the B1C team (Charles Dickinson II), Jennifer Anderson of First Responder Coaching, Buchannon, WV Fire Chief J.B. Kimble, and Upshur County Communications Assistant Director Kimbra Wachob. The discussion covered the incidents connecting J.B. and Paul, B1C's journey into West Virginia, and the insights from John Maxwell Leadership programs (delivered by Jeremy Rebok, CFO, BS, CPS & Wes Hill) and coaching certifications that have been applied countless times.Listeners gained a behind-the-scenes look at the development and growth of the West Virginia Peer Support Group, from its first meeting to its continued impact each month, including the partnership with Wesleyan College to build a stronger, more resilient community. This episode offered actionable takeaways on leadership, coaching, and the power of peer support in first responder networks.#leadership #mentalhealth #PSG #Programdevelopment #leadershipdevelopment

On this episode of the B1C Podcast, Chiefs Wes Hill, Jeremy Rebok, CJ Dickinson, and host Paul Wind tackle three challenges many leaders face but few openly discuss: emotions, ego, and control. As leaders grow in responsibility, managing emotional pressure, keeping ego in check, and learning when to let go of control can become some of the greatest obstacles to effective leadership. The team explores how these struggles impact decision-making, culture, and leadership development within emergency services—and why self-awareness may be one of the most important skills a leader can develop. The team welcomes a special guest, John Cuomo, Author of "Leadership Refined by Fire". John collaborates with the Team on great discussions around leaership in todays evolving fire service.

New Episode Alert: Episode #5 – “Acumen: What’s That?”Join Chiefs Wes Hill and CJ Dickinson, hosted by Paul Wind, as they break down acumen and explore the soft skills that make leaders truly effective, from communication to setting expectations to self-reflection.This episode dives into the skills you won’t find in an officer’s textbook: becoming a better listener, knowing when to take the tactical pause, and honing the subtle decisions that separate good leaders from great ones.Tune in for practical insights, real-world examples, and a fresh perspective on leadership skills that often go unnoticed but make all the difference.Click Here for the B1C Podcast Channel

New Episode: Communication, Collaboration & The Courage to Be Uncomfortable.Growth doesn’t happen inside comfort zones.In emergency services, comfort can quietly become the enemy of progress. On this episode of the B1C Podcast, Chiefs Wes Hill, CJ Dickinson, and Jeremy Rebok join host Paul Wind to discuss why being uncomfortable is the new comfort for leaders who truly want to grow.They explore:• Why clear communication is the foundation of operational excellence• How intentional collaboration strengthens teams under pressure• Why discomfort is often the doorway to innovation and leadership growth• How strong organizations create space for honest dialogue In emergency services, lives depend on trust, clarity, and unified action.That doesn’t happen by accident — it happens through courageous conversations and leaders willing to lean into discomfort. If you're committed to building stronger teams, improving communication, and elevating culture within your organization, this episode is for you.🎧 Listen now on all major platforms.What’s one area where leaning into discomfort has helped you grow as a leader? #Battalion1Consultants #B1CFirstResponders #LeadershipDevelopment #EmergencyServices #OrganizationalCulture #Communication #Collaboration #PodcastEpisode

In Episode Three of the podcast, titled "Courageous Leadership – Transforming Through Growth," host Paul Wind is joined by Fire Chiefs CJ Dickinson, Wes Hill, and Jeremy Rebok. This episode explores how true leadership extends beyond titles, emphasizing embracing bold changes and fostering growth. Listeners will gain insights into building resilience, sparking innovation, and transforming challenges into opportunities. Perfect for anyone aiming to become a changemaker, this episode emphasizes that courageous leadership is about moving forward despite fear.

In Episode Two of the B1C Podcast, host Paul Wind is joined by Fire Chiefs Wes Hill, C.J. Dickinson, and Jeremy Rebok for a thoughtful conversation on sustainable leadership. Rather than focusing on quick fixes or short-term wins, this episode explores what it truly takes to build lasting leadership. The panel dives into strategies for cultivating long-term impact by fostering growth, resilience, and a healthy organizational culture. Through real-world insights and practical experience, they discuss how leaders can create environments that support their people, strengthen their organizations, and stand the test of time. This episode is a must-listen for leaders who want to move beyond reactive leadership and focus on building something meaningful, durable, and effective.

B1C Podcast – Episode 1: Welcome to the B1C Podcast In the inaugural episode of the B1C Podcast, host Paul Wind, CEO of Battalion 1 Consultants, brings together an experienced panel of fire service leaders for an authentic and thought-provoking conversation. Joined by Fire Chiefs Wes Hill, Jeremy Rebok, and CJ Dickinson, the panel dives into Jeremy Rebok’s recent blog, “Keys to Success as a Fire Chief: Leading with Influence, Creativity, and Wisdom.”What begins as a discussion of leadership principles quickly evolves into an in-depth exchange on the real-world challenges facing today’s fire service and public safety organizations. Throughout the episode, the panel explores leadership beyond rank, the power of influence, navigating change, and the impact of recent events shaping culture, expectations, and performance within our organizations.The conversation is candid, insightful, and grounded in lived experience—offering practical takeaways for current and aspiring leaders alike.This episode sets the tone for the B1C Podcast: genuine dialogue, meaningful reflection, and leadership lessons that extend beyond the firehouse and into every organization striving for excellence.