The Convergent Impact Leadership Podcast

Stepping into the role of Fire Chief is a monumental transition for any leader, but doing so in a high-performing organization requires a unique blend of humility and strategy. In this episode, Eric Savickas sits down with Chief Ryan Roberts of Front Range Fire Rescue to discuss his journey from a third-generation volunteer firefighter to leading one of Colorado’s most respected agencies.Chief Roberts shares the mechanics of his 100-day plan—a structured approach built on connecting with stakeholders, aligning values, and activating a vision for the future. He reflects on the weight of command, the importance of "kitchen table" communication, and how he manages the balance between respecting an established legacy and driving necessary organizational growth.🔥 Tune in to hear:✅ The three phases of a successful 100-day Fire Chief transition plan✅ How to handle "ghosts in the closet" and legacy questions from the rank and file✅ The power of radical financial transparency during budget and compensation cycles✅ Why "The Front Range Way" serves as a written foundation for department culture✅ The role of a "truth-teller" in senior leadership to prevent executive burnout✅ Why being the "new" chief is a mindset that should last longer than the first weekIf you are preparing for a promotion or stepping into a new agency, Chief Roberts provides a masterclass on how to lead with a "people-first" lens while maintaining the standards that make a department great.

Training is one of the most critical, and often underappreciated, functions in the fire service. It shapes performance, builds confidence, and ultimately determines how well we serve our communities when it matters most.In this episode, I’m joined by Chief Lisa Pine, State Fire Training Director with the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control, to talk about her unique path into the fire service and her perspective on leadership, training, and building stronger departments across Colorado.Lisa shares how she transitioned from a career in environmental planning into the fire service later in life, what she learned stepping into a leadership role early, and why she believes training is the foundation of any successful department.We also talk about the connection between leadership and training, how to develop people with different strengths and abilities, and why leaders must remain open-minded as the fire service continues to evolve.🔥 Tune in to hear:✅ Lisa’s unconventional path into the fire service✅ Why training is the most important role in a fire department✅ How leadership and training intersect, but aren’t the same✅ The importance of adapting to different strengths within a team✅ Challenges facing training across rural and resource-limited departments✅ Why funding and prioritizing training remains a constant struggleLisa also shares her perspective on the future of the fire service, including how departments will need to adapt to changing resources, advancing technology, and shifting workforce dynamics while still delivering on their mission.If you're focused on developing your people, improving training, or thinking about the future of your department, this conversation offers practical insight from a leader working at the center of it across Colorado.

Leadership in the fire service often requires navigating change, balancing culture, and communicating intent in a way that moves an organization forward.In this episode, I’m joined by Ken Watkins, Executive Director of the Colorado State Fire Chiefs and former Fire Chief of the Grand Junction Fire Department, to talk about leadership lessons from more than four decades in the fire service.Ken shares the story of how a coin flip between policing and firefighting launched his career, the leadership moments that shaped his journey through the ranks, and what he learned while leading Grand Junction through years of growth and change.We also talk about the relationship between culture and a leader’s intent, the critical role played by company and battalion chiefs in translating strategy into action, and why sometimes leaders have to step forward and simply make the call.🔥 Tune in to hear:✅ How a coin flip helped launch Ken’s career in the fire service✅ Why culture and a leader’s intent can either align or clash✅ The critical leadership role played by captains and battalion chiefs✅ How communication gaps can quietly derail good leadership decisions✅ The importance of mentorship and not leading alone✅ A leadership lesson Ken learned the hard way about collaboration and decision-makingKen also shares his perspective on the mission of the Colorado State Fire Chiefs, the importance of strengthening collaboration across departments, and why supporting leaders across Colorado’s fire service matters now more than ever.If you're navigating leadership challenges, guiding organizational change, or preparing for greater responsibility in the fire service, this conversation offers practical insight from a leader who has seen the job from every level.

In this episode of the Convergent Impact Leadership Podcast, I’m joined by Chief Ben Ojinaga, Assistant Chief of Operations with the Greeley Fire Department. With more than three decades in the fire service, Chief Ojinaga shares a grounded, experience-based perspective on what strong leadership actually looks like in the day-to-day, not in theory, not on a slide.We talk about the early influences that shaped him, why “principled relationships” have become a cornerstone of how he leads, and what it really means to serve your people while still holding the line on standards and accountability. Chief Ojinaga also unpacks the idea that there are no bad teams, only bad leaders, and why the company officer is the true center of gravity in a fire department.🔥 Tune in to hear:✅ How early firehouse experiences shaped his view of mentorship and leadership✅ What “principled relationships” means, and why it matters more than ever✅ A powerful story about how honesty and the “why” can change a firefighter’s entire trajectory✅ A practical definition of servant leadership that goes beyond buzzwords✅ Why “no bad teams, only bad leaders” is really about accountability and support✅ The power of presence, and why leaders cannot lead from behind a desk✅ The legacy mindset of “leave it better than you found it,” and how to live it outIf you lead in the fire service and want a real-world conversation about trust, standards, and building teams that perform, this one will hit home.

In this episode of the Convergent Impact Leadership Podcast, Chief Pepper Valdez of Mountain View Fire Rescue reflects on leadership, transitions, and the lessons that shaped his 30-year fire service career. From his early years in Billings, Montana, to his recent arrival in Colorado, Chief Valdez shares candid insights on when to lead from the front, when to get out of the way, and how to build trust by treating people with respect.Whether he’s talking about his first weeks as a new chief or the legacy of those who mentored him, Chief Valdez reminds us that leadership isn’t about control—it’s about listening, learning, and showing people they matter.🔥 Tune in to hear:✅ Why a silent walk-by from the fire chief shaped his leadership for life✅ How to step into an existing department without steamrolling the culture✅ Why trusting your team is essential to building a resilient organization✅ The difference between growth, control, and real empowerment✅ What it means to lead like a CEO—without losing touch with the floor✅ Why leadership transitions require listening more than talking✅ How to tell when it’s time to move on—and how to do it with purposeIf you’ve ever wrestled with timing, trust, or what kind of leader your people really need, this conversation offers grounded wisdom from a chief who leads with humility, intent, and care.

In this episode of the Convergent Impact Leadership Podcast, Chief Jeremy Young of the Frederick-Firestone Fire District reflects on his 30+ years in emergency services, including nearly a decade as fire chief in one of Colorado’s fastest-growing districts. From his roots in Kansas City to his leadership roles on the Colorado State Fire Chiefs E-Board and the International Association of Fire Chiefs, Chief Young brings a people-first mindset shaped by integrity, emotional intelligence, and an unwavering commitment to mentorship.Whether he’s talking about transitioning into a new department, building culture from the inside out, or supporting emerging leaders, Chief Young offers clear, actionable wisdom for leaders at every level.🔥 Tune in to hear:✅ Why mentorship isn’t just for struggling members—and why every chief needs one✅ How to shift your mindset from serving the public to serving your people✅ What it really takes to build a culture of trust, buy-in, and clarity✅ Why emotional intelligence is a core leadership skill, not a soft skill✅ How to lead with courage—even when the decision is unpopular✅ Why balance, honesty, and hope all matter in high-impact leadership✅ The mindset behind Chief Young’s “Where’s your oar today?” culture analogyFrom the firehouse to the statehouse, this episode is a candid, insightful look at leadership that’s rooted in purpose, not position—and built to grow others.

In this episode of the Convergent Impact Leadership Podcast, recently retired Assistant Chief Eric Valliere of Scottsdale Fire reflects on his 34-year journey in the fire service—from riding a fire truck in 1991 to helping lead one of Arizona’s most innovative departments. A passionate advocate for firefighter safety, leadership development, and emotional intelligence, Chief Valliere shares what it means to lead with heart, serve with humility, and leave the job better than you found it.Whether you're a new officer, a veteran leader, or approaching your own transition, this episode is a candid look at what matters most—on the fireground, in the firehouse, and beyond the badge.🔥 Tune in to hear: ✅ Why firefighter safety is a leadership issue—not just a tactical one ✅ How vulnerability and emotional intelligence shape strong teams ✅ What it means to give more than your position requires ✅ Lessons from transitioning a private fire contract into a municipal department ✅ How to build influence without relying on rank ✅ Why self-awareness and real conversations are cornerstones of command ✅ The leadership mindset Chief Valliere is carrying into his next chapterFrom operations to officer development, this episode is a reminder that leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about trust, courage, and caring deeply for your people.

In this episode of the Convergent Impact Leadership Podcast, Chief Mike Morgan—Director of the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control—shares leadership lessons shaped over nearly four decades in public safety. From his early days as a volunteer firefighter in Rifle to leading statewide fire service coordination, Chief Morgan offers a clear, experienced perspective on what it takes to lead with intent in complex systems, without forgetting where you came from.Whether recounting near misses, navigating interagency politics, or championing innovation in wildfire response and community risk reduction, Chief Morgan reminds us that leadership isn’t about control—it’s about service, support, and showing up for the people who do the work.🔥 Tune in to hear:✅ How early mistakes shaped a lifelong commitment to training and safety✅ The story behind Colorado’s expanded aviation, mitigation, and support resources✅ What it means to lead “with the end in mind” in a state-level role✅ Why collaboration, not control, is the future of effective fire service leadership✅ Lessons from South Canyon and how they still guide leadership decisions today✅ How to lead when influence matters more than authority✅ Why every leader should be mentored, especially by those they leadWhether you’re a fire chief, policy leader, or frontline firefighter, this episode delivers grounded insight from one of Colorado’s most trusted voices in fire service leadership.

In this episode of the Convergent Impact Leadership Podcast, Chief Jason Caughey of Laramie County Fire Authority (Cheyenne, WY) shares real-world leadership lessons from three decades in the fire service and 15 years leading one of Wyoming’s most progressive combination departments. From launching a resident firefighter program to delivering a high-profile keynote on safety and aggressiveness, Chief Caughey offers a grounded and candid perspective on evolving fire service culture—without losing its heart.Whether he’s talking about change resistance, coaching vs. advising, or leading with trust instead of control, this episode is a powerful reminder that strong leadership isn’t about holding the line—it’s about moving it forward with purpose.🔥 Tune in to hear:✅ How to balance safety and aggressiveness without becoming reckless✅ Why fear and confidence are at the center of every change effort✅ How LCFA built a resident firefighter program from scratch✅ The difference between instructors and coaches—and why language matters✅ How performance feedback builds clarity, not conflict✅ Why gaining perspective outside your organization can reshape your leadershipIf you’re navigating growth, leading culture change, or building the next generation of leaders, this episode delivers real takeaways—and a fresh perspective—from one of the fire service’s most thoughtful voices.

In this episode of the Convergent Impact Leadership Podcast, Chief Kris Kazian of Evergreen Fire Rescue reflects on three decades in the fire service—including leadership roles in Illinois, Arizona, and Colorado—and the lessons learned from each. From navigating organizational change to integrating volunteer and career staff, Chief Kazian shares candid insights on leadership longevity, culture-building, and the quiet strength of humility.Whether he’s building trust, managing growth, or investing in future leaders, his approach is grounded in consistency, presence, and a deep belief in people.🔥 Tune in to hear:✅ What it means to lead across multiple states and organizational cultures✅ How vulnerability, not bravado, builds trust that lasts✅ Lessons from stepping into a department mid-crisis—and turning it around✅ Why consistency is the bedrock of leadership credibility✅ How Evergreen Fire is integrating career and volunteer staff with intention✅ Why strong leaders prioritize people—even when the path forward is unclear✅ The personal cost of leadership—and how to stay grounded through itFrom firefighting to fire chief, and from department to department, this episode is a candid look at the kind of leadership that earns trust over time—without shortcuts.

In this episode of the Convergent Impact Leadership Podcast, Chief Tim Sendelbach of Loveland Fire Rescue Authority reflects on four decades in the fire service—from growing up in the shadow of the Beverly Hills Supper Club fire to leading at the national level as a speaker, editor, and now chief of a progressive Colorado department.With humility, candor, and hard-won perspective, Chief Sendelbach shares what it means to balance vision with day-to-day leadership, set clear lines in the sand for firefighter health and wellness, and keep people at the center of every decision. His leadership journey underscores that trust, accountability, and forward-thinking aren’t just strategies—they’re standards.🔥 Tune in to hear: ✅ How a tragic fire in 1977 set him on a lifelong path into the fire service ✅ Why humility and trust remain non-negotiables in leadership ✅ Lessons from navigating both municipal and private-sector fire leadership ✅ How LFRA is advancing proactive wildfire mitigation and firefighter wellness ✅ Why tradition should never outweigh life-safety and innovation ✅ What four decades of service have taught him about vision, pace, and balanceWhether you’re just starting your career or leading from the chief’s chair, this episode offers a grounded, people-first look at how to lead with clarity, courage, and care.

In this episode of the Convergent Impact Leadership Podcast, Chief Brycen Garrison of Brighton Fire Rescue District shares his approach to people-first leadership, organizational culture, and making mission-driven decisions that align with long-term values. With a background that spans the corporate world, volunteer firefighting, and now chief-level leadership, Chief Garrison brings a thoughtful, empowering perspective rooted in clarity, humility, and purpose.From aligning short-term choices with long-term values to creating a workplace where people feel seen, supported, and energized—this conversation is packed with practical insight for anyone looking to lead with greater intent.🔥 Tune in to hear:✅ Why “people before things” is more than a motto—it’s a strategic filter✅ How Brighton Fire rebuilt its mission, vision, and values to actually live them✅ What belief-in looks like (not just buy-in) when it comes to decision-making✅ How to lead without ego—and model accountability without blame✅ Why investing in training and education creates long-term organizational strength✅ How transparency, trust, and emotional intelligence fuel cultural momentumIf you're looking to strengthen alignment, elevate your team, and lead with heart in high-stakes environments, this episode will challenge and encourage you.

In this episode of the Convergent Impact Leadership Podcast, Chief Drew Hoehn of Red, White & Blue Fire Protection District (Breckenridge, CO) reflects on nearly 30 years in the fire service—from a post-9/11 move to Summit County to co-leading a department with a rare dual-chief model.With thoughtful perspective and hard-won experience, Chief Hoehn shares what it means to lead with humility, shape culture through example, and make high-stakes decisions without losing your humanity. Whether navigating a medical crisis, working across cultures in Central America, or empowering future leaders, his approach is grounded, candid, and refreshingly self-aware.🔥 Tune in to hear:✅ What a dual-chief model looks like—and why it works for RWB Fire✅ How medical adversity reshaped his leadership lens✅ The importance of emotional maturity and heart-forward leadership✅ Why judgment—not assumptions—is a critical leadership muscle✅ Lessons from training EMS providers in Honduras✅ How inclusion, succession, and vulnerability build long-term strengthThis episode explores how to lead with clarity, care, and conscience—especially when the decisions are hard and the stakes are real.

In this episode of the Convergent Impact Leadership Podcast, Deputy Chief Michael Cerovski of Lacey Fire District 3 (WA) shares his journey from line firefighter in Colorado to his current role overseeing administration in a high-performing, people-centered department in the Pacific Northwest.With over three decades in the fire service—including time in prevention, training, and operations—Chief Cerovski brings a rare depth of perspective on what it means to lead with humility, take risks, and develop the entire team—not just the fire floor. From navigating labor-management relations to preparing people for retirement with dignity, this episode explores the often-overlooked layers of leadership that make organizations thrive.🔥 Tune in to hear:✅ Why seeking discomfort can shape both personal and professional growth✅ What healthy labor-management relationships really look like—and why they matter✅ How to lead administrative teams with the same purpose as operational crews✅ The role of succession planning not just in promotions, but in retirement✅ How leaders intent creates shared ownership—beyond the fireground✅ Why inclusion and diversity are not just values, but operational advantagesWhether you’re in operations, admin, or just starting out, this episode offers a deeply intentional look at the quieter—but no less critical—forms of leadership that sustain trust, readiness, and long-term success.

In this episode of the Convergent Impact Leadership Podcast, Chief Brad White—Fire Chief of Grand Fire Protection District No. 1 and President of the Board of Directors for the Colorado State Fire Chiefs—shares candid insights on the challenges and responsibilities facing today’s fire service leaders. Drawing from his experience during the East Troublesome Fire and his current statewide leadership role, Chief White reflects on how local leadership, regional coordination, and public trust all intersect.From navigating the realities of land use to representing chiefs across Colorado, this conversation offers a thoughtful look at fire service leadership in high-stakes, high-visibility environments.🔥 Tune in to hear:✅ Lessons from East Troublesome and how they shaped statewide wildfire perspectives✅ Why land use and development are fire service issues—and leadership ones✅ What it means to represent fire chiefs from every corner of Colorado✅ How to bridge local decision-making with regional coordination and mutual aid✅ The connection between training culture and budget credibility✅ Why humility, communication, and service-first thinking still matter mostWhether you're a frontline officer or a statewide decision-maker, this episode offers a grounded and timely perspective on what the fire service needs next—and what kind of leadership will get us there.

In this episode of the Convergent Impact Leadership Podcast, Assistant Chief Greg Ward of Loveland Fire Rescue Authority shares insights from over three decades in the fire service—including his current role leading risk reduction, readiness, and wellness. A third-generation firefighter, Chief Ward reflects on what it means to stay committed to your people, lead through quiet innovation, and build something that lasts.From strategy to succession, his leadership style is rooted in reflection, resilience, and a relentless focus on doing what’s right—even when it’s not easy.🔥 Tune in to hear:✅ Why courage in leadership often means stepping outside the norm✅ How LFRA’s culture of compassion starts from the inside out✅ The mindset shift from operations to organizational development✅ Why timing matters when introducing change and innovation✅ How to build regional solutions for logistics, training, and wellness✅ Lessons he's passing on to the next generation—including his son in the fire serviceWhether you're leading change, mentoring others, or building something from the ground up, this episode offers practical wisdom from a steady, forward-looking leader.

In this episode of the Convergent Impact Leadership Podcast, Chief Don Lombardi of West Metro Fire Rescue reflects on more than three decades in the fire service, including 14 years as Fire Chief. As he prepares to retire, Chief Lombardi shares the hard-won lessons that shaped his leadership—from building a strong organizational culture to navigating grief, growth, and generational change.From responding to firefighter suicides to creating strategic planning teams that empowered his department, this is a conversation about building something that lasts—through clarity, humility, and a deep belief in the people around you.🔥 Tune in to hear:✅ Why early experience as a teacher and coach influenced his leadership style✅ How West Metro rebuilt morale and trust after losing a ballot measure and downsizing services✅ What he learned from navigating two firefighter suicides—and how it shaped a proactive mental wellness culture✅ How strategic planning teams gave West Metro members real ownership and voice✅ Why succession planning began years before his retirement—and led to an internal-only chief search✅ What it looks like to lead through legacy, not egoIf you lead in any high-trust profession, this episode is a candid and grounded look at evolving with your organization—and leaving it stronger than you found it.

In this episode of the Convergent Impact Leadership Podcast, Chief Mark Schuman of Adams County Fire Rescue shares what it means to lead with humility and intent in the complex world of emergency management. With over three decades in the fire service and a career rooted in hazardous materials response, Chief Schuman reflects on lessons learned from high-stakes leadership roles—and how emotional intelligence, followership, and self-awareness shape strong teams.Whether he’s talking about the balance between confidence and humility or how to guide people through change, Chief Schuman offers grounded wisdom for leaders navigating uncertain terrain.🔥 Tune in to hear: ✅ Why humility and clarity of intent are core to Chief Schuman’s leadership style ✅ How to stay approachable while maintaining credibility and direction ✅ What emotional intelligence looks like in action—especially under pressure ✅ The importance of followership and knowing when to support vs. direct ✅ Why building trust starts with consistency, not charismaIf you’re a fire officer, emergency manager, or team leader of any kind, this episode is a thoughtful look at what it really means to lead people—not just processes—in times of change.

In this episode of the Convergent Impact Leadership Podcast, Chief TJ Steck of Elizabeth Fire Protection District shares a candid look at his journey from volunteer firefighter to Fire Chief of the Year. With nearly three decades in fire service, Chief Steck reflects on what it really takes to lead a growing department while staying grounded in humility, service, and a deep care for people.From building a strong command team to navigating leadership transitions with integrity, his story offers clear lessons on leading through growth, change, and real-world responsibility. This is a conversation about purpose, mentorship, and the quiet courage required to keep showing up—even when the path is uncertain.🔥 Tune in to hear:✅ Why humility and presence are key to long-term leadership✅ How to prepare future leaders without rushing the process✅ Lessons from stepping into leadership “accidentally” — and rising to the challenge✅ The importance of self-reflection and staying connected to your people✅ Why honoring the role is just as important as holding the titleWhether you’re early in your career or approaching succession, this episode will challenge and encourage you to lead with clarity, care, and confidence.

In this episode of the Convergent Impact Leadership Podcast, Chief Michael West of Front Range Fire Rescue shares reflections from over 40 years in the fire service—including his final weeks before retirement. A fourth-generation firefighter and seasoned leader, Chief West opens up about the lessons that shaped his career, the values he carried across departments, and what it means to build a coaching tree that outlasts your own tenure.From navigating culture change and mergers to preparing the next generation of leaders, Chief West’s story is rich with practical takeaways and heartfelt moments—including a powerful tribute to his late father’s quiet influence on his path.🔥 Tune in to hear:✅ How to lead authentically while honoring tradition✅ Why legacy is more about people than projects✅ What 95% of leadership really comes down to (hint: it’s not tactics) ✅ How to empower battalion chiefs to lead with trust and initiative✅ A powerful final message on stoic leadership and turning adversity into impactThis episode is a must-listen for fire officers at every level who care about leadership that lasts—and legacy that matters.

In this episode of the Convergent Impact Leadership Podcast, Chief Randy Royal of the Colorado Springs Fire Department shares insights from over 42 years in emergency services—and the lessons that have shaped his leadership philosophy.Chief Royal, the 2024 IAFC Career Fire Chief of the Year, reflects on how adaptability, culture change, and people-first leadership have defined his journey. From navigating the rising complexity of fire and EMS calls to building a resilient, mission-driven department culture, his story is packed with actionable wisdom for leaders at every level.🔥 Tune in to hear:✅ How Chief Royal balances "Mission First, People Always" in a large department✅ The role of adaptability in modern fire service leadership✅ Why culture change is essential—and how to lead it the right way✅ Practical advice for navigating tough leadership lessons and growing through challengesWhether you’re a new officer or a seasoned leader, this episode offers a masterclass in authentic leadership built on trust, resilience, and service.

In this episode of the Convergent Impact Leadership Podcast, Chief Mike Scott shares his leadership journey from junior explorer to Assistant Chief of Operations and Training at Grand Fire—and now, President of the Colorado Fire Training Officers Association.With more than 25 years in fire and EMS, Chief Scott reflects on how humility, collaboration, and a passion for training have shaped his leadership approach. From his time as Colorado’s State Training Director during the height of COVID to his current work advancing fire service training statewide, this conversation is packed with hard-earned insights for leaders at every level.🔥 Tune in to hear:✅ Why humility is one of Chief Scott’s most powerful leadership tools✅ His take on confidence vs. arrogance—and the line between them✅ What he’s learned from working in rural, suburban, and state-level roles✅ His vision for collaboration, growth, and the future of training in ColoradoWhether you’re a training officer, a company officer, or preparing for your next step, this episode offers practical wisdom and a powerful reminder that leadership is about people, not position.

In this episode of the Convergent Impact Leadership Podcast, Chief Pete Bradshaw of Lafayette Fire Department shares his leadership journey and the lessons he's learned through over 25 years in the fire service.Chief Bradshaw talks candidly about the transition from deputy chief to fire chief, how he balances confidence without crossing into arrogance, and why relationships—not checklists—are at the core of great leadership. From building trust within a department to developing future leaders, his people-first approach offers practical insights for fire service leaders at every level.🔥 Tune in to hear:✅ How Chief Bradshaw leads with relationships, not just responsibilities✅ His take on confidence vs. arrogance—and why it matters more than we think✅ What it really takes to develop the next generation of fire service leaders✅ Strategies for shaping culture through everyday interactionsWhether you’re a new officer or a seasoned chief, this episode is packed with real-world wisdom you can apply today.

In this episode of the Convergent Impact Leadership Podcast, Chief Jim Klug of Platte Valley Fire Protection District shares his leadership journey, from growing up in a small-town volunteer firehouse in Wisconsin to leading a fire district in Colorado. Chief Klug discusses the importance of mentorship, department culture, and developing future leaders, as well as the challenges he faced transitioning into the fire chief role.🔥 Tune in to hear:✅ How Chief Klug’s mentors shaped his leadership approach✅ The role of trust, recognition, and accountability in building a strong team✅ His philosophy on leadership during organizational change✅ Practical strategies for developing firefighters into future officersWhether you're in the fire service or leading in another industry, this episode is packed with valuable insights on leading with intent, fostering growth, and building a positive culture.

In this episode of the Convergent Impact Leadership Podcast, I sit down with Chief Leif Sackett of Colorado River Fire Rescue to discuss leadership in high-risk environments, the importance of trust within a department, and the challenges of wildfire preparedness.With extensive experience in both urban and wildland fire response, Chief Sackett shares insights on leading teams through uncertainty, building a strong department culture, and making critical decisions under pressure. From the realities of managing wildfire threats to preparing the next generation of fire service leaders, this conversation is packed with actionable takeaways for leaders at every level.

In this episode of the Convergent Impact Leadership Podcast, Chief Paul Capo of Estes Valley Fire Protection District joins us to discuss his leadership journey, the evolution of firefighter training, and the critical importance of adaptability in the fire service.With decades of experience and a passion for firefighter survival and self-preservation, Chief Capo shares insights on leading through change, building resilient teams, and pushing the boundaries of fire service training. Whether you're a fire service leader or someone looking to develop your leadership approach, this conversation is packed with actionable takeaways.

In this episode, I sit down with Chief Sterling Folden, Deputy Chief of Operations for Mountain View Fire Protection District in Colorado. With over 30 years of fire service experience, Chief Folden shares his leadership journey, the importance of innovation while managing risk, and his pivotal role during the response to the historic Marshall Fire in 2021. Tune in for an inspiring conversation packed with actionable leadership insights and lessons from the frontlines of the fire service.