Explore every episode of the podcast The Passionate Leader

In this episode, I sit down with Mike Elhihi a Captain who’s done it all and still keeps his boots grounded. We talk about his rise in the fire service, what it’s like to occupy multiple seats in the rig, and the uncomfortable reality of leading through tough conversations. Mike opens up about accepting that leadership isn’t always about doing what we want, but doing what’s right for the team and the mission.

If you’ve ever wrestled with the weight of responsibility, this one’s going to hit home.

In this heartfelt conversation, George Redner shares his profound journey as a firefighter and the unimaginable losses he faced, including the suicides of his sons. He emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness in the fire service, breaking the stigma surrounding seeking help, and finding purpose in grief. George's story highlights the need for peer support and the significance of addressing burnout among first responders. His commitment to helping others through their struggles is a testament to resilience and the enduring legacy of service.

In this conversation, Christian "Old Man Copper" Schuele shares his journey through leadership challenges, mental health struggles, and the importance of support within the fire service. He discusses the impact of career setbacks and the need for understanding and communication in professional environments. Additionally, he introduces his entrepreneurial venture, Old Man Copper, where he creates mustache wax inspired by his experiences and the camaraderie of the firehouse.

In this conversation, Christian "Copper" Schuele shares his journey through leadership challenges, mental health struggles, and the importance of support within the fire service. He discusses the impact of career setbacks and the need for understanding and communication in professional environments. Additionally, he introduces his entrepreneurial venture, Old Man Copper, where he creates mustache wax inspired by his experiences and the camaraderie of the firehouse.

Summary

In this conversation, Justin Champion, a combat veteran and firefighter, shares his insights on leadership, mental health, and the importance of training in the fire service. He discusses the transition from military to fire service leadership, the significance of approachability, and the need for proactive mental health support. Justin emphasizes the impact of burnout on firefighters and the importance of family support. He also shares his journey of writing a book to document institutional knowledge and promote mental health awareness in the fire service.

Summary

In this conversation, Justin Champion, a combat veteran and firefighter, shares his insights on leadership, mental health, and the importance of training in the fire service. He discusses the transition from military to fire service leadership, the significance of approachability, and the need for proactive mental health support. Justin emphasizes the impact of burnout on firefighters and the importance of family support. He also shares his journey of writing a book to document institutional knowledge and promote mental health awareness in the fire service.

Summary

In this heartfelt conversation, twin sisters Shauni and Siarra share their journey of resilience after losing their father to suicide at a young age. They discuss how this tragedy shaped their lives, leading them to careers in the fire service and healthcare, where they strive to help others facing similar struggles. The sisters reflect on the impact of childhood trauma, the importance of compassion in their professions, and the ongoing challenges of mental health and addiction. They emphasize the need for open conversations about suicide and the hidden ripples it creates in families and communities, offering hope and encouragement to those in darkness.

Summary

In this heartfelt conversation, twin sisters Shawnee and Sierra share their journey of resilience after losing their father to suicide at a young age. They discuss how this tragedy shaped their lives, leading them to careers in the fire service and healthcare, where they strive to help others facing similar struggles. The sisters reflect on the impact of childhood trauma, the importance of compassion in their professions, and the ongoing challenges of mental health and addiction. They emphasize the need for open conversations about suicide and the hidden ripples it creates in families and communities, offering hope and encouragement to those in darkness.

Summary

In this conversation, Spencer Tufte shares his journey in the fire service, highlighting the balance between being a volunteer and a career firefighter. He discusses the importance of mental health, the challenges of leadership, and the need to bridge the gap between career and volunteer firefighters. Spencer emphasizes the significance of personal relationships in the fire service and the detrimental effects of the 'suck it up' mentality on mental health. In this conversation, Chief Spencer Tuftee and The Passionate Leader discuss the critical importance of mental health awareness in the fire service, emphasizing the need for acceptance and recognition of mental health issues. They explore the significance of debriefing and support systems for firefighters, the role of mentoring and training in fostering a strong community, and the impact of leadership on engagement and morale within the fire department. The discussion highlights the cumulative effects of trauma and the necessity of open communication and support among peers.

Summary

In this conversation, Spencer Tufte shares his journey in the fire service, highlighting the balance between being a volunteer and a career firefighter. He discusses the importance of mental health, the challenges of leadership, and the need to bridge the gap between career and volunteer firefighters. Spencer emphasizes the significance of personal relationships in the fire service and the detrimental effects of the 'suck it up' mentality on mental health. In this conversation, Chief Spencer Tuftee and The Passionate Leader discuss the critical importance of mental health awareness in the fire service, emphasizing the need for acceptance and recognition of mental health issues. They explore the significance of debriefing and support systems for firefighters, the role of mentoring and training in fostering a strong community, and the impact of leadership on engagement and morale within the fire department. The discussion highlights the cumulative effects of trauma and the necessity of open communication and support among peers.

In this episode, Roderick Mitchell, a retired DC firefighter with over 28 years of service, shares his journey from a busy firehouse to a slower environment, emphasizing the importance of leadership, mentorship, and personal growth. He discusses his new venture, Success by Fire, and the writing of his book 'Fire, Fury, Faith', which explores his emotional and spiritual journey in the fire service. Roderick highlights the significance of self-reflection and maintaining hope, encouraging firefighters to look within themselves to foster growth and resilience.

If you like what Roderick had to say check out his links:

https://www.successbyfire.com/

https://www.amazon.com/Fire-Fury-Faith-Story-Success-ebook/dp/B07RWDPJHZ/ref=sr_1_3?crid=27J8LTAEYK5HV&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.pSjBGDz64ZmK2CeU3oN5yOCtQYPkw2Y-YhT6W_GXXuVDp2_iLY8pztZBgoqRQecQpJoBuMvuOpioPXwmnkh0fWykgLy514w-AJ-ZkZOSKC5EOPjRcLcUDK1WVCF2-9tQ6ludVF6K0UxuDP3lk-GSdbQ7T3RLW8jqTk51muiqOWMCpbNnXHwjHmEvKPwuQQ_fyp93RClEbH_5TGtF1X4ykzGliABEdsHvKQE-tnFuUf0.c2nyP0HzA2_3CdPVSNbCAK7SUxwC3WSPqa7_VHX0hVM&dib_tag=se&keywords=fire+fury+faith&qid=1757383623&s=books&sprefix=fire+fury+faith+%2Cstripbooks%2C77&sr=1-3

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Chad Gill, a third-generation firefighter, shares his journey in the fire service, highlighting the passion that drives him and the importance of community service. He discusses the challenges and rewards of leadership in the fire department, the significance of supportive leadership, and the need for officer development programs. Chad also reflects on the values instilled in him by his family and the generational differences that impact the fire service today. The conversation emphasizes the importance of positivity, enthusiasm, and community expectations in shaping the role of firefighters. In this conversation, Chad and The Passionate Leader discuss various aspects of leadership within the fire service, including the importance of personal development, balancing work and family life, and the impact of legacy and reputation. They share insights from their experiences at conferences, the challenges of presenting, and the significance of community involvement. The discussion also touches on generational differences in leadership styles and the necessity of fostering a supportive environment for growth and learning.

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Chad Gill, a third-generation firefighter, shares his journey in the fire service, highlighting the passion that drives him and the importance of community service. He discusses the challenges and rewards of leadership in the fire department, the significance of supportive leadership, and the need for officer development programs. Chad also reflects on the values instilled in him by his family and the generational differences that impact the fire service today. The conversation emphasizes the importance of positivity, enthusiasm, and community expectations in shaping the role of firefighters. In this conversation, Chad and The Passionate Leader discuss various aspects of leadership within the fire service, including the importance of personal development, balancing work and family life, and the impact of legacy and reputation. They share insights from their experiences at conferences, the challenges of presenting, and the significance of community involvement. The discussion also touches on generational differences in leadership styles and the necessity of fostering a supportive environment for growth and learning.

In the finale of our conversation with Roger, we discuss fire prevention, staffing, and effective leadership styles.

In this episode we sit down with our guest Roger Boissoneau. We learn what it takes to run a community based EMS service, staffing concerns and when he realized that EMS was his strong suit.

Summary

In this episode, Dr. Kevin McNeil shares his journey through the fire service and law enforcement, detailing his struggles with PTSD and the impact of trauma on first responders. He emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness, the role of family support, and the need to break the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Kevin's story highlights the challenges of returning to duty after trauma, the failures of peer support systems, and the transformative power of vulnerability in leadership. Ultimately, he finds purpose in teaching and writing, inspiring the next generation of first responders to prioritize mental health. In this conversation, Keven McNeill shares his journey as a first responder and the challenges he faced with mental health, both personally and within his family. He discusses the importance of open communication about trauma, the creation of a nonprofit aimed at supporting first responders, and the innovative approaches being implemented to address mental health issues. The conversation highlights the significance of community support, the role of therapy dogs, and the ongoing efforts to establish a wellness center for first responders. Keven also reflects on his experience writing a book about his journey and the importance of sharing stories to help others.

In this episode, Dr. Kevin McNeil shares his journey through the fire service and law enforcement, detailing his struggles with PTSD and the impact of trauma on first responders. He emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness, the role of family support, and the need to break the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Kevin's story highlights the challenges of returning to duty after trauma, the failures of peer support systems, and the transformative power of vulnerability in leadership. Ultimately, he finds purpose in teaching and writing, inspiring the next generation of first responders to prioritize mental health. In this conversation, Keven McNeill shares his journey as a first responder and the challenges he faced with mental health, both personally and within his family. He discusses the importance of open communication about trauma, the creation of a nonprofit aimed at supporting first responders, and the innovative approaches being implemented to address mental health issues. The conversation highlights the significance of community support, the role of therapy dogs, and the ongoing efforts to establish a wellness center for first responders. Keven also reflects on his experience writing a book about his journey and the importance of sharing stories to help others.

In Part 2 of my conversation with Nate House, we dive deeper into the firehouse brotherhood — from the laughs and daily rituals to the deeper lessons learned on the job. But we also explore a more serious side: the political challenges that come with climbing the ranks. Nate opens up about the struggles of leadership, navigating the tough decisions, and the unexpected pressures that come with being higher up the chain of command. It’s a raw look at the balancing act of managing people, politics, and the mission of saving lives.

In this episode, Mike Goldstein shares his journey as a firefighter and the challenges he faced due to toxic leadership within the fire service. He discusses the impact of a negative workplace culture, the struggles for recognition and promotion, and the importance of mental health support. Mike emphasizes the need for open communication and community support among first responders, encouraging others to speak up about their experiences and seek help when needed.

Check out The CAN Report below:

https://open.spotify.com/show/6Yh5CmeopNfsv0y4t5ROp1?si=28ed11d5742d4e6c

https://www.youtube.com/@thec.a.n.report

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561147827325&sk=about

In this conversation, Nate House shares his extensive experience in public safety, discussing the evolution of training in fire and police services, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges faced in leadership development. He emphasizes the need for community engagement and the impact of bureaucracy on fire services. Nate reflects on personal growth, the significance of training, and the future of fire services, advocating for a culture that prioritizes the well-being of firefighters and the communities they serve. For more information on Nate House please check his website out www.firefighterfto.com

Part 2: Chief Bob Glidden: Lessons, Losses, and Leading Forward

In this second half of our conversation, Chief Glidden doesn’t hold back. He talks candidly about the failures that shaped him, the mentors who kept him grounded, and what today’s leaders need to stop ignoring.

This episode is a masterclass in humility, accountability, and leading with purpose. If Part 1 set the stage, Part 2 delivers the impact.

Listen now, and lead better.

In this episode of The Passionate Leader podcast, Deputy Chief Bob Glidden of the Proctorsville Fire Department shares his journey in the fire service, which began at the age of 12. He discusses the importance of mentorship, the development of junior firefighter programs, and the significance of community service. Bob emphasizes the need for continuous training and improvement, the challenges of leadership, and the importance of maintaining a positive culture within the department. He also reflects on the recognition he received from the New England Patriots and the impact of personal outlets like fishing and hunting on mental health. The conversation concludes with insights on handling negative publicity and the legacy he hopes to leave behind.

On this episode we sit down with Retired Fire Chief Matt Wilson of the Chester Vermont Fire Department. We talk everything from fire explorers posts, building a fire department, and ways to handle tricky members.

Brief intro into the show.