The Leadership Crucible Podcast

The Emergency Doesn't Ask | Audio Newsletter Vol. 49, August 2026

Sat, 01 Aug 2026 00:14:36 +0000

This is the all-new audio version of this month’s newsletter, The Leadership Crucible (Volume 49, August 2026). This issue explores a fundamental principle of public service: that leadership is at its best when service comes before self. Drawing on over 40 years of experience in the fire service, Chief Randy Bruegman examines why the most effective leaders prioritize the mission and the people they serve over personal gain, political positioning, or public recognition.

For civic and local impact leaders—including city and county managers, fire and police chiefs, department heads, and non-profit leaders—leadership is a responsibility to be exercised, not an entitlement to be protected. We explore why leadership is most tested when solutions to community challenges—like aging infrastructure, housing costs, and pressured healthcare systems—are difficult, costly, or controversial.

In this episode, we discuss:

The Erosion of Trust through Self-Interest: How shifting focus from solving problems to protecting one's position causes trust to wither within an organization and the community.
The First Responder Mindset: Why leaders must "face reality" as it is, acknowledging that ignored problems—from failing bridges to struggling businesses—do not go away simply because they are unacknowledged.
Action vs. Activity: How to cut through the distractions of politics and "study-to-death" committees by using a simple four-question framework to create clarity and drive progress: What do I have? What do I need? What am I doing about it? Who is in charge?.

Tune in to explore how to lead with a first responder’s focus, ensuring that when your community "calls 911" for leadership, you are ready to assess the situation, take responsibility, and move the mission forward. Your legacy is defined by the problems you were willing to address and the service you gave back to those depending on you.

DC Fire Chief: How to Be the Calmest Leader in the Room | Chief John Donnelly, Washington DC

Thu, 09 Jul 2026 20:22:13 +0000

Washington DC Fire Chief John Donnelly knows what it means to lead when the pressure is high, the stakes are real, and everyone is looking for clarity.

In this episode of The Leadership Crucible Podcast, Chief Randy Bruegman sits down with Chief Donnelly to talk about his journey from volunteer firefighter to Fire Chief of Washington, D.C., the leadership lessons that shaped him, and what it takes to stay calm when crisis hits. Chief Donnelly shares how preparation, clear command, local leadership, and a deep commitment to public service guide his decision-making in some of the most difficult moments a leader can face.

Together, they discuss the realities of leading a large urban fire department, the growing complexity of emergency services, the burden carried by first responders, and why the best leaders never forget who they serve. Whether you work in public safety, local government, business, or community leadership, this conversation is a powerful reminder that calm leadership is built long before the crisis arrives.

Watch and listen now to learn how to be the calmest leader in the room when everything around you feels uncertain.

IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 — Leading When Crisis Hits
01:20 — Chief John Donnelly’s Journey to DC Fire Chief
05:13 — The Experiences That Shaped His Leadership
08:09 — Why Every Leader Needs a Clear Vision
10:10 — Why Local Government Matters More Than People Realize
14:31 — The Challenges Facing Urban Fire Departments
21:10 — Preparation Before a Major Crisis
26:37 — Staying Clear and Composed Under Pressure
30:00 — Supporting the Mission of The Leadership Crucible Foundation
30:48 — Local Command, Federal Partners, and Leadership Courage
33:16 — The Future of Fire Service Leadership
43:24 — Advice for Emerging Leaders

ABOUT CHIEF JOHN DONNELLY:
John A. Donnelly, Sr. serves as the Fire and EMS Chief for Washington, D.C., leading the 2,100-member DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department.Chief Donnelly began his career with DC Fire and EMS in 1992 at Truck 16 and has served in a wide range of leadership roles throughout the department, including Rescue Squad 3, Tower 3, Battalion Fire Chief 2, Division Commander of Special Operations, Homeland Security, and Apparatus, as well as several command staff and executive officer positions.In 2018, he was promoted to lead the department’s Professional Development Bureau, overseeing key areas including human resources, training, medical services, professional standards, payroll and compliance, and grants. He was nominated by Mayor Muriel Bowser to serve as Fire and EMS Chief in September 2020 and confirmed by the Council of the District of Columbia in December 2020.Chief Donnelly also serves on regional and national preparedness committees, including the International Association of Fire Chiefs Terrorism and Homeland Security Committee and the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments Fire Chiefs Committee. In 2025, he was named Fire Chief of the Year by the Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association, a section of the NFPA and IAFC representing large urban and suburban departments around the world.A long-time Ward 4 resident, Chief Donnelly lives in Manor Park and remains active in the community, including his work with Boy Scouts Troop 98 in Brookland.

LINKS & RESOURCES:
- John Donnelly | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-donnelly-2016a214/)
- DC Fire and EMS | Web (https://fems.dc.gov/)
- DC Fire and EMS | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/dc-fire-and-ems/)
- DC Fire and EMS | Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/dcfireandems/)
- DC Fire and EMS | YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@DCFireandEMS)
- DC Fire and EMS | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/DCFireAndEMS/)
- DC Fire and EMS | X (https://x.com/dcfireems)

LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE:
- YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@theleadershipcrucible)
- Apple Podcasts (https://tinyurl.com/5f2mxvfj)
- Spotify (https://tinyurl.com/5xvp5wyu)

GIVE NOW:
The Leadership Crucible Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, with no political affiliation, dedicated to promoting and developing ethical leadership. Our objective is to help develop the next generation of leaders with a strong sense of ethics and commitment to serving and making a positive impact on their organization and society. Learn more & give now at https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/donate.

CONNECT WITH US:
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Web (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/)
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/theleadershipcruciblefoundation)
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-leadership-crucible-foundation/)
- Chief Bruegman | Instagram (https://instagram.com/chiefbruegman)
- Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/leaders-of-tomorrow-podcast)

MUSIC CREDITS:
- Ultara - Christian Wade (MB014YDB0QDGJBQ)
- Fanfare For The Common Man
- Solstice - Wes Hael (MB01LT6FYVWG1ZN)
- This Is The Good Life (Instrumental) - MOONWATER (MB01DNWMLB3JVBM)

When Truth Becomes Non-Negotiable | Audio Newsletter Vol. 48, July 2026

Fri, 03 Jul 2026 20:47:59 +0000

This is the all-new audio version of this month’s newsletter, The Leadership Crucible (Volume 48, July 2026). This episode explores the growing erosion of trust across society and within organizations that occurs when leaders trade honesty for convenience, popularity, or personal gain.
For local government leaders—such as city managers, fire chiefs, police chiefs, and economic developers—leadership is truly demonstrated when making the right decision despite criticism, discomfort, or political risk. We examine why meaningful action is often delayed on complex community issues like aging infrastructure, underfunded pensions, and mental health because the solutions are difficult, expensive, or require sacrifice.

In this episode, we discuss:

The Small Compromises That Erode Trust: How words that no longer align with actions cause employees and communities to question a leader’s integrity.
The High Price of Inaction: Why avoiding a problem doesn't eliminate it but instead transfers the burden to those who follow us.
The Leadership Imperative: The necessity of confronting reality as it is, telling the truth, and taking action while options still exist.

Tune in to explore how to lead with purpose and character, ensuring you leave your organization and community better than you found it. Your legacy is shaped by the decisions you make and the reasons you make them.

READ THIS MONTH'S NEWSLETTER:
https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/newsletter

LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE:
- YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@theleadershipcrucible)
- Apple Podcasts (https://tinyurl.com/5f2mxvfj)
- Spotify (https://tinyurl.com/5xvp5wyu)

GIVE NOW:
The Leadership Crucible Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, with no political affiliation, dedicated to promoting and developing ethical leadership. Our objective is to help develop the next generation of leaders with a strong sense of ethics and commitment to serving and making a positive impact on their organization and society. Learn more & give now at https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/donate.

CONNECT WITH US:
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Web (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/)
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/theleadershipcruciblefoundation)
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-leadership-crucible-foundation/)
- Chief Bruegman | Instagram (https://instagram.com/chiefbruegman)
- Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/leaders-of-tomorrow-podcast)

This REMOTE African Tribe Taught Me EVERYTHING I Know About Leadership | Boris Maguire, Safarini Leadership

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 22:47:31 +0000

Leadership can be shaped by pressure, but it can also be transformed by perspective. In this episode, Chief Randy Bruegman sits down with Boris Maguire, co-founder of Safarini Leadership, to explore what modern leaders can learn from the Samburu of northern Kenya. Drawing from years of living and working across Africa, Boris shares how deep relationships with Samburu elders reshaped his understanding of resilience, connection, and what leadership looks like when it is rooted in service rather than status.

They talk about why Western leadership culture often confuses speed with wisdom, how community creates resilience, and why so many leaders today are burning out while trying to carry too much alone. Boris also unpacks how Safarini’s off-grid wilderness journeys help executives slow down, reflect deeply, and confront the personal and professional patterns shaping the way they lead.This is a conversation about belonging, burden-sharing, generational thinking, and the kind of ancient wisdom that still has the power to challenge, refine, and strengthen modern leaders.

IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 - What the Samburu Teach Us About Resilience and Endurance
00:30 - The Leadership Crucible Podcast
01:10 - Boris Maguire’s Journey from Washington to Kenya
03:19 - How Samburu Elders Inspired Safarini Leadership
07:16 - What Boris Learned About Leadership from the Samburu
10:03 - Why Modern Leaders Are Starving for Real Connection
11:28 - Leadership Lessons from Culture, Service, and Trust
14:50 - How Samburu Traditions Shape Identity and Belonging
20:43 - What CEOs Walk Away With After the Trek
24:02 - Why the Wilderness Strips Away Distraction
27:14 - What the Samburu Reveal About Anxiety and Connection
31:35 - Stories, Oral Tradition, and Generational Leadership
35:56 - Why the Samburu Think Beyond the Next Quarter
38:07 - The “Lazy Tree of Wisdom” and Slowing Down Decision-Making
42:26 - What Modern Organizations Can Learn from Samburu Community Life

ABOUT BORIS:
From the US, Boris has worked in two dozen countries and lived in five. Ten years ago, he was drawn to Kenya’s “Silicon Savannah”, where he has since specialised in operational strategies for startups seeking pan-African growth and profitability. He has led teams in 10 African countries, serving as CEO for a tech startup and MD of a solar firm. He now leads global operations for Africa’s fastest growing HR fintech. He holds an MPA from Columbia University, a BA from Duke, and a certificate from the African Management Institute. In his free time, Boris likes to move, by whatever means necessary. He has trekked the ranges of Ecuador, Ethiopia, and Myanmar; snowmobiled across Maine; and raced by bike down Africa’s second highest mountain. He now more often enjoys camping and hiking with his family in search of new challenges, inspiration, and fish. Heeding the call of the north, they are building their home in the Lolldaiga Hills.

LINKS & RESOURCES:
- Boris Maguire | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/borismaguire/)
- Safarini Leadership | Web (https://safarinileadership.com/)
- Safarini Leadership | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/safarini-leadership/)
- Safarini Leadership | Instagram (https://instagram.com/safarinileadership)
- Safarini Leadership | YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@SafariniLeadership)

LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE:
- YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@theleadershipcrucible)
- Apple Podcasts (https://tinyurl.com/5f2mxvfj)
- Spotify (https://tinyurl.com/5xvp5wyu)

GIVE NOW:
The Leadership Crucible Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, with no political affiliation, dedicated to promoting and developing ethical leadership. Our objective is to help develop the next generation of leaders with a strong sense of ethics and commitment to serving and making a positive impact on their organization and society. Learn more & give now at https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/donate.

CONNECT WITH US:
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Web (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/)
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/theleadershipcruciblefoundation)
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-leadership-crucible-foundation/)
- Chief Bruegman | Instagram (https://instagram.com/chiefbruegman)
- Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/leaders-of-tomorrow-podcast)

MUSIC CREDITS:
- Image - Wes Hael (MB01UHJ9A4BD1U3)
- Fanfare For The Common Man
- Solstice - Wes Hael (MB01LT6FYVWG1ZN)
- This Is The Good Life (Instrumental) - MOONWATER (MB01DNWMLB3JVBM)

A Refugee’s Journey to Leadership in America | Hugh Nguyen, Orange County Clerk-Recorder

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 17:45:56 +0000

The American Dream means more when you hear it through the story of someone who fought to survive, adapt, and serve. In this episode, Chief Randy Bruegman sits down with Orange County Clerk-Recorder Hugh Nguyen to talk about his journey from war-torn Vietnam to public service in America. Hugh reflects on escaping Saigon as a child, the memories that still stay with him from that journey, and the deep influence of the grandparents and aunts who raised him.They also talk about Hugh’s decades-long search for his father, the emotional moment that finally brought answers, and how those experiences shaped the way he leads today. From hiring for personality over experience to building a culture that treats people with dignity, Hugh shares a leadership philosophy grounded in humility, service, and respect.This is a conversation about what it means to overcome hardship without becoming hardened, to honor the people who sacrificed for you, and to use your story to serve others well.

IN THIS EPISODE:

00:00 - Why Hugh Nguyen Hires for Personality Over Experience
00:21 - The Leadership Crucible Podcast
01:10 - Hugh Nguyen’s New Book: My Unforgettable Journey
01:39 - From Vietnamese Refugee to Orange County Leader
09:09 - Hugh Nguyen on Escaping Saigon in 1975
14:49 - Hugh Nguyen Returns to the USS Midway
17:15 - The American Dream Through a Refugee’s Eyes
19:45 - Hugh Nguyen on Learning English and Facing Bullying
24:20 - Hugh Nguyen’s 50-Year Search for His Father
31:34 - The Emotional First Meeting With His Father
33:43 - How Hugh Nguyen Entered Politics and Public Service
37:52 - Leading Orange County Like a Business
40:08 - Why Character Matters More Than Résumés
41:07 - Hugh Nguyen’s Message to Anyone Ready to Give Up

ABOUT HUGH:
Hugh Nguyen is the Orange County Clerk-Recorder, author of My Unforgettable Journey: A Long Way From Home, and the first Vietnamese American elected countywide to that office in the nation. Born in Vietnam, Hugh came to America as a refugee at age seven in 1975 and eventually settled in Orange County, where he has lived since 1979. After nearly 50 years of believing his father had died in the Vietnam War, Hugh found him alive in 2018 through DNA testing. He has served Orange County for more than three decades and is known for his hands-on leadership, public service innovation, and deep commitment to serving families well.

LINKS & RESOURCES:
- Hugh Nguyen | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/ocrecorder/)
- Hugh Nguyen | Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/ocrecorder/)
- Hugh Nguyen | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/hugh-nguyen-32192511b/)
- Orange County Clerk-Recorder, Hugh Nguyen | Web (https://www.ocrecorder.com/)
- Hugh’s Book| My Unforgettable Journey: A Long Way From Home (https://www.amazon.com/My-Unforgettable-Journey-Long-Home/dp/1970440341)

LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE:
- YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@theleadershipcrucible)
- Apple Podcasts (https://tinyurl.com/5f2mxvfj)
- Spotify (https://tinyurl.com/5xvp5wyu)

GIVE NOW:
The Leadership Crucible Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, with no political affiliation, dedicated to promoting and developing ethical leadership. Our objective is to help develop the next generation of leaders with a strong sense of ethics and commitment to serving and making a positive impact on their organization and society. Learn more & give now at https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/donate.

CONNECT WITH US:
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Web (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/)
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/theleadershipcruciblefoundation)
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-leadership-crucible-foundation/)
- Chief Bruegman | Instagram (https://instagram.com/chiefbruegman)
- Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/leaders-of-tomorrow-podcast)

MUSIC CREDITS:
- Forever & For Always - Maria Hines (MB01YB0LN2VITZ2)
- Fanfare For The Common Man
- Solstice - Wes Hael (MB01PNDKVCOEO1Z)
- This Is The Good Life (Instrumental) - MOONWATER (MB01CTIIAZV80UU)

LA Dodgers Broadcaster José Mota: Leadership Lessons From a Life in Baseball

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 20:00:02 +0000

We have a special episode for you on MLB Opening Day! LA Dodgers Broadcaster José Mota has spent a lifetime inside the game of baseball.From growing up in a Major League clubhouse as the son of Dodgers legend Manny Mota to playing professional baseball himself. And now, a trusted voice behind the microphone for the Los Angeles Dodgers, his journey spans generations of the game and the people who shaped it.

In this conversation, José reflects on what baseball taught him about leadership, perseverance, faith, and community. He shares stories about supporting Latin American players adjusting to life in professional baseball, learning from leaders like Mike Scioscia and Vin Scully, witnessing Vladimir Guerrero’s Hall of Fame moment firsthand, and watching how great managers lead inside the clubhouse when pressure is highest.He also explains why true leadership isn’t assigned, it’s revealed through character, preparation, and consistency over time. This episode is a reminder that the lessons baseball teaches extend far beyond the field. They shape how we lead our families, our teams, and the next generation. If you care about leadership, legacy, and the culture behind Major League Baseball, you’ll enjoy this conversation!

IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 - Legacy, Mentorship & Paying It Forward
01:19 - Jose Mota on Growing Up in a Baseball Family
04:58 - Dominican Republic, Humility & Community
09:58 - Jose Mota’s Baseball Journey: Player, Agent, Broadcaster
15:02 - Helping Latin American Players Succeed in MLB
21:09 - Spanish Chapel, Faith & Serving Latino Ballplayers
24:15 - How Jose Mota Started His Broadcasting Career
26:11 - Leaving the Angels and Joining the Dodgers
34:42 - Faith, Family & the Mentors Who Shaped Jose Mota
40:50 - Jose Mota’s Crucible Moment as a Broadcaster
47:11 - Leadership Lessons: Preparation, Growth & Self-Reflection
49:40 - Jose Mota on Leadership in America Today
53:19 - Vladimir Guerrero, the Hall of Fame & Leading by Example
58:25 - How Managing an MLB Team Has Changed
01:03:23 - Manny Mota, Jackie Robinson’s Legacy & Breaking Barriers
01:10:08 - Leaving a Legacy Through Kindness and Service

SAY HELLO TO JOSE:
Jose Mota | Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/josemota05/)

LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE:
- YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@theleadershipcrucible)
- Apple Podcasts (https://tinyurl.com/5f2mxvfj)
- Spotify (https://tinyurl.com/5xvp5wyu)

GIVE NOW:
The Leadership Crucible Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, with no political affiliation, dedicated to promoting and developing ethical leadership. Our objective is to help develop the next generation of leaders with a strong sense of ethics and commitment to serving and making a positive impact on their organization and society. Learn more & give now at https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/donate.

CONNECT WITH US:
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Web (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/)
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/theleadershipcruciblefoundation)
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-leadership-crucible-foundation/)
- Chief Bruegman | Instagram (https://instagram.com/chiefbruegman)
- Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/leaders-of-tomorrow-podcast)

MUSIC CREDITS:
- Fanfare For The Common Man
- Ascend - Wes Hael (MB01PAG25ETJMIM)
- Solstice - Wes Hael (MB01PNDKVCOEO1Z)
- This Is The Good Life (Instrumental) - MOONWATER (MB01CTIIAZV80UU)

People First: A U.S. Marshal on What Real Leadership Looks Like | with John Marshall

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 20:26:41 +0000

Leadership in public safety isn’t about rank, authority, or titles. At its core, it’s about people. In this episode of the Leadership Crucible Podcast, Chief Randy Brugman sits down with John Marshall, former Director of the United States Marshals Service, to explore what real leadership looks like inside one of the nation’s most demanding professions.

Marshall’s career spans more than four decades in law enforcement—from his early days as a Virginia State Trooper to serving as U.S. Marshal for the Eastern District of Virginia, Director of the U.S. Marshals Service, and Secretary of Public Safety for the Commonwealth of Virginia, overseeing more than 20,000 public safety professionals. Along the way, he learned that the strongest leaders aren’t defined by power—they’re defined by loyalty, trust, and how they take care of the people they serve alongside.

In this conversation, Marshall shares lessons from the front lines of policing, the challenge of leading former peers, navigating leadership at the highest levels of government, and why believing in people may be the greatest gift a leader can give. He also reflects on the evolving relationship between law enforcement and the communities they serve, and what it takes to stay mission-focused in a profession that often faces intense scrutiny.

From leadership accountability and organizational culture to the personal weight of public service, this episode offers a thoughtful and honest look at what it means to lead when the stakes are high and the mission matters. If you’re responsible for leading people, building trust in difficult environments, or learning how to balance authority with humility, this conversation offers powerful insights from a lifetime of service.

IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 - Leadership Loyalty: Debate vs Execution
01:17 - How John Marshall Started His Law Enforcement Career
02:59 - Career Path: State Trooper to U.S. Marshal
07:02 - The Leadership Lesson That Shaped His Career
13:31 - Leading Large Government Organizations
19:05 - How Great Leaders Assess Organizational Culture
20:43 - Policing After 2020: Leadership in Difficult Times
27:01 - A Young Trooper’s First Arrest and Leadership Awakening
37:38 - How Leaders Build Trust With Their Teams
44:22 - Career Advice: What Leaders Should Tell Their Younger Self
52:11 - People First Leadership Philosophy

ABOUT JOHN MARSHALL:
John Marshall is a veteran law enforcement leader whose career spans more than forty years in public safety. He began his service with the Virginia State Police, rising through the ranks before being appointed United States Marshal for the Eastern District of Virginia, a position that required presidential nomination and confirmation by the United States Senate.

Marshall later served as Director of the United States Marshals Service, leading the nation’s oldest federal law enforcement agency and overseeing critical missions including fugitive apprehension, judicial protection, and federal prisoner transportation. He also served as Secretary of Public Safety for the Commonwealth of Virginia, where he oversaw fourteen public safety agencies and more than 20,000 personnel responsible for protecting communities across the state.

Throughout his career, Marshall has been known for his people-first leadership philosophy, emphasizing loyalty, accountability, and the belief that the true measure of leadership is how well you take care of your people.

LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE:
- YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@theleadershipcrucible)
- Apple Podcasts (https://tinyurl.com/5f2mxvfj)
- Spotify (https://tinyurl.com/5xvp5wyu)

GIVE NOW:
The Leadership Crucible Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, with no political affiliation, dedicated to promoting and developing ethical leadership. Our objective is to help develop the next generation of leaders with a strong sense of ethics and commitment to serving and making a positive impact on their organization and society. Learn more & give now at https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/donate.

CONNECT WITH US:
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Web (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/)
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/theleadershipcruciblefoundation)
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-leadership-crucible-foundation/)
- Chief Bruegman | Instagram (https://instagram.com/chiefbruegman)
- Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/leaders-of-tomorrow-podcast)

MUSIC CREDITS:
- Formosa - Silence Between The Waves (MB01R21J31SP39M)
- Fanfare For The Common Man
- Solstice - Wes Hael (MB01PNDKVCOEO1Z)
- This Is The Good Life (Instrumental) - MOONWATER (MB01CTIIAZV80UU)

Why Great Leaders Fail More Than Everyone Else with Chief Aaron Tyerman, Fire Training Consortium

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 21:00:07 +0000

Leadership isn’t about getting it right every time. It’s about learning how to grow through failure.In this episode of the Leadership Crucible Podcast, Fire Chief Randy Brugman sits down with Aaron Tyerman, Chief of Training for the South King County Fire Training Consortium, serving 15 departments and more than 1,700 firefighters across the Puget Sound region.Aaron shares a powerful leadership philosophy: fail fast, fail forward. Together, they unpack what it really means to lead with humility, build strong organizational culture, embrace change, and develop the next generation of leaders in a rapidly evolving world. From leadership mistakes and mentorship to technology, succession planning, and multi-generational workforce challenges, this conversation delivers practical insight for leaders in any profession.If you’re trying to become a better leader, build stronger teams, or create a culture where people learn and grow, this episode is packed with real-world wisdom.

IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 - Failing Forward Leadership Mindset (How Great Leaders Learn From Failure)
00:59 - Leadership Crucible Podcast Intro & Leadership Purpose
01:16 - Fire Service Career Journey: From Paramedic to Fire Chief
04:28 - Leadership Mistakes That Shape Great Leaders
10:16 - Promotion Challenges: Letting Go of Your Old Role as a Leader
13:06 - Leadership and Technology: AI, Innovation & Outcome-Based Decision Making
18:10 - Building Organizational Culture Through Accountability and Trust
20:51 - The $5 Million Leadership Mistake Story (Why Failure Matters)
22:36 - Leadership Habits: Time Management, Email Discipline & Focus
28:05 - Leading Multi-Generational Teams and Work-Life Balance
31:14 - Mental Health Calls and the Future of Emergency Services Leadership
35:25 - Succession Planning and Developing Future Leaders
42:50 - Leadership Communication: Curiosity vs Anger

ABOUT AARON:
Aaron Tyerman is the Chief of Training for the South King County Fire Training Consortium, where he leads regional training efforts supporting thousands of firefighters across multiple departments in Washington State. In this role, he focuses on developing leaders, advancing firefighter readiness, and building collaborative training systems that prepare teams for real-world challenges.Before stepping into this position, Tyerman served in senior operational leadership roles, including Chief of Special Operations with King County Medic One, where he helped shape tactical medical training and high-risk response strategies. With a career spanning fire, EMS, and leadership development, he is known for his practical, people-first approach to leadership — emphasizing learning through failure, mentorship, and continuous growth.

LINKS & RESOURCES:
- Aaron Tyerman | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-tyerman-8a0002152/)
- Fire Training Consortium | Web (https://pugetsoundfire.org/about/south-king-county-fire-training-consortium/)
- Fire Training Consortium | YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/user/KentRFATraining)

LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE:
- YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@theleadershipcrucible)
- Apple Podcasts (https://tinyurl.com/5f2mxvfj)
- Spotify (https://tinyurl.com/5xvp5wyu)

GIVE NOW:
The Leadership Crucible Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, with no political affiliation, dedicated to promoting and developing ethical leadership. Our objective is to help develop the next generation of leaders with a strong sense of ethics and commitment to serving and making a positive impact on their organization and society. Learn more & give now at https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/donate.

CONNECT WITH US:
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Web (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/)
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/theleadershipcruciblefoundation)
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-leadership-crucible-foundation/)
- Chief Bruegman | Instagram (https://instagram.com/chiefbruegman)
- Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/leaders-of-tomorrow-podcast)

MUSIC CREDITS:
- Fireborne - Charlie Ryan (MB01IDH3DBXPXAQ)
- Fanfare For The Common Man
- Solstice - Wes Hael (MB01PNDKVCOEO1Z)
- This Is The Good Life (Instrumental) - MOONWATER (MB01CTIIAZV80UU)

Frustrated at Work? This Is Might Be Why | with Carol DiBattiste, Fmr. Under Secretary US Air Force

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 20:00:23 +0000

In this episode of The Leadership Crucible Podcast, Carol DiBattiste, former senior leader in the U.S. Air Force, Department of Justice, and Department of Homeland Security, unpacks why so many capable, driven people feel stuck, exhausted, or disconnected at work. Drawing from a career spent leading through crisis—from building the TSA in the aftermath of 9/11 to turning around organizations under intense public scrutiny—Carol explains how purpose, integrity, and trust shape long-term fulfillment.The conversation explores what happens when leaders and organizations lose sight of mission, why loving what you do most of the time matters more than chasing titles or security, and how purpose becomes the stabilizing force when pressure, uncertainty, and responsibility collide.This episode is for anyone questioning their work, their leadership, or their direction—and wondering whether frustration is a signal, not a failure.

IN THIS EPISODE:
0:00 – Why most people are frustrated at work
1:06 – Carol DiBattiste’s career in service and leadership
3:44 – Building TSA after 9/11 under national pressure
4:56 – “The hardest job I’ve ever had”
7:44 – Breaking barriers as a woman in military leadership
9:06 – Leading organizations through crisis and scandal
11:56 – Integrity, trust, and telling the truth when it’s costly
17:03 – How leaders diagnose broken culture
22:51 – Adapting to change instead of getting stuck
29:23 – Why purpose—not money—is the key to fulfillment
33:49 – “Life is too short to hate your job”
40:05 – Mentorship, authenticity, and finding your voice
48:55 – Defining legacy through service and purpose

ABOUT CAROL:
Carol A. DiBattiste is an American lawyer and senior leader whose career spans decades of public service and executive leadership across government and the private sector. She began her career in the United States Air Force, serving from 1971 to 1991 and rising to the rank of Major while working as a recruiter, prosecutor in the JAG Corps, and faculty at the Air Force JAG School.

She went on to serve in multiple senior government roles, including as Under Secretary of the Air Force from 1999 to 2001, where she oversaw Air Force operations on behalf of the Secretary. After 9/11, she joined the Transportation Security Administration, serving as Chief of Staff and later Deputy Administrator, helping build the agency in its formative years and leading efforts to scale aviation security nationwide.

Throughout her career, DiBattiste also served as Director of the Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys, Deputy U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, and Vice Chairman of the Board of Veterans’ Appeals. In the private sector, she has held senior legal, compliance, privacy, and executive roles at firms including ChoicePoint, LexisNexis, Geeknet, Education Management Corporation, and Comscore.She holds a B.A. from La Salle University, a J.D. from Temple University Beasley School of Law, and an LL.M. from Columbia University.

LINKS & RESOURCES:
- Carol DiBattiste | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroldibattiste/)

LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE:
- YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@theleadershipcrucible)
- Apple Podcasts (https://tinyurl.com/5f2mxvfj)
- Spotify (https://tinyurl.com/5xvp5wyu)

GIVE NOW:
The Leadership Crucible Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, with no political affiliation, dedicated to promoting and developing ethical leadership. Our objective is to help develop the next generation of leaders with a strong sense of ethics and commitment to serving and making a positive impact on their organization and society. Learn more & give now at https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/donate.

CONNECT WITH US:
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Web (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/)
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/theleadershipcruciblefoundation)
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-leadership-crucible-foundation/)
- Chief Bruegman | Instagram (https://instagram.com/chiefbruegman)
- Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/leaders-of-tomorrow-podcast)

MUSIC CREDITS:
- Fanfare For The Common Man
- Solstice - Wes Hael (MB01PNDKVCOEO1Z)
- This Is The Good Life (Instrumental) - MOONWATER (MB01CTIIAZV80UU)

Female Fire Chief on Leadership, Trust, & Breaking the Mold | Chief Trisha Wolford

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 21:21:18 +0000

Breaking barriers in the fire service isn’t about titles—it’s about trust, courage, and consistency over time. In this episode of The Leadership Crucible Podcast, Chief Randy Bruegman sits down with Chief Trisha Wolford, one of only three women to ever serve as President of the International Association of Fire Chiefs, to explore what it truly takes to lead in a profession shaped by tradition, pressure, and high expectations.

Chief Wolford shares her journey from growing up in a fire service family in Rockford, Illinois, to becoming Fire Chief in Anne Arundel County and now serving at the national level. She reflects on earning respect in a male-dominated profession, leading through relational trust, and making difficult decisions when public scrutiny, social media pressure, and organizational complexity collide.This conversation goes beyond breaking glass ceilings. Chief Wolford speaks candidly about leadership fatigue, decision-making under fire, navigating crisis, and staying grounded while carrying responsibility that never really turns off. From mentoring the next generation to shaping national policy and advocating for the future of the fire service, her story offers a grounded, honest look at principled leadership.

Whether you’re a firefighter, a chief, or a leader responsible for people in high-stakes environments, this episode delivers timeless lessons on courage, humility, trust, and what it means to leave the profession better than you found it.

IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 – Trailer: A Trailblazing Fire Service Leader
01:16 – Growing Up in a Fire Service Family
03:57 – From Graphic Design to the Fire Academy
05:39 – Finding Purpose Beyond a Paycheck
06:39 – Why Character Matters in the Fire Service
07:04 – Defining Moments That Shaped Her Leadership
07:54 – Taking the Risk: Leaving Home to Grow as a Leader
10:41 – Lessons Learned in Bozeman, Montana
12:59 – Staying Grounded as a Fire Chief
15:44 – Managing Decision Fatigue & Burnout
17:27 – Stepping Into the IAFC Presidency
19:23 – Leading at the National & International Level
22:25 – Sustainability, Funding, and the Future of the Fire Service
26:49 – Change Fatigue, Technology, and AI
30:08 – Empathy, Adaptability, and Human-Centered Leadership
33:13 – Crucible Moments: Social Media, Crisis, and Public Scrutiny
38:24 – Standing by Your People Under Fire
44:30 – Leadership Accountability & Learning from Failure
47:42 – What the Next Generation of Leaders Must Develop
51:22 – Saying No, Innovation, and Focus
56:13 – Leaving It Better: Legacy, Service, and Paying It Forward
01:02:02 – Closing Reflections on Leadership & Trust

ABOUT CHIEF WOLFORD:
Trisha L. Wolford is the Fire Chief of the Anne Arundel County Fire Department in Maryland and currently serves as President and Board Chair of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC)—one of only three women in the organization’s history to hold the role.As Fire Chief, Wolford leads one of the largest combination fire departments in the country, serving more than 600,000 residents across 580 square miles and 31 fire stations. She is responsible for over 1,000 career firefighters, approximately 500 operational volunteer firefighters, nearly 1,000 administrative volunteers, fire communications personnel, and civilian support staff.

Chief Wolford began her career with Anne Arundel County in 2006 as a firefighter/paramedic. In 2011, she was assigned to the Fire Marshal’s Office and later became a sworn law enforcement officer after completing the Anne Arundel County Police Academy. She served in fire and explosives investigations, promoted to Lieutenant, and spent four years as a Tactical Medic with the SWAT program.Her executive leadership experience includes serving as Deputy Fire Chief and Fire Marshal in Bozeman, Montana, and Assistant Fire Chief overseeing operations for the Spokane Fire Department. In 2019, she returned to Anne Arundel County to become Fire Chief of her home department.

Chief Wolford holds a bachelor’s degree from Shepherd University, a master’s degree in Management and Organizational Leadership, and an MBA. She is a graduate of the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer Program, the IAFC Fire Service Executive Development Institute, and holds CFO and CFM designations from the Center for Public Safety Excellence. In addition to her IAFC presidency, she serves on the FirstNet Authority Board and was appointed in 2025 to Maryland’s State EMS Advisory Council.

LINKS & RESOURCES:
- IAFC | Web (https://www.iafc.org/)
- IAFC | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/iafc/)
- IAFC | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/firechiefs/)
- IAFC | Instagram
- FDNY | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-york-city-fire-department/)
- Chief Wolford | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/trisha-wolford-4a716bb0/)

LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE:
- YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@theleadershipcrucible)
- Apple Podcasts (https://tinyurl.com/5f2mxvfj)
- Spotify (https://tinyurl.com/5xvp5wyu)

GIVE NOW:
The Leadership Crucible Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, with no political affiliation, dedicated to promoting and developing ethical leadership. Our objective is to help develop the next generation of leaders with a strong sense of ethics and commitment to serving and making a positive impact on their organization and society. Learn more & give now at https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/donate.

CONNECT WITH US:
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Web (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/)
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/theleadershipcruciblefoundation)
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-leadership-crucible-foundation/)
- Chief Bruegman | Instagram (https://instagram.com/chiefbruegman)
- Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/leaders-of-tomorrow-podcast)

MUSIC CREDITS:
- You Were There Instrumental - CHPTRS (MB01GWD6NYA7CYS)
- Fanfare For The Common Man
- Solstice - Wes Hael (MB01PNDKVCOEO1Z)
- This Is The Good Life (Instrumental) - MOONWATER (MB01CTIIAZV80UU)

Leading the FDNY: Chief John Esposito on High Stakes Leadership in New York City

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 17:54:25 +0000

Leading the FDNY isn’t just a job—it’s a constant test of judgment, consistency, and character. In this episode of The Leadership Crucible Podcast, Chief Randy Bruegman sits down with Chief John Esposito, Acting Chief of Department for the New York City Fire Department, to explore what high-stakes leadership looks like inside the most iconic fire service organization in the world.With more than three decades rising through the ranks—from engine companies in Queens to Special Operations in Manhattan—Chief Esposito oversees more than 14,000 uniformed members in a city where every decision is scrutinized and the pressure never lets up. He shares how consistency builds trust in massive organizations, why culture is shaped by what leaders tolerate, and how the FDNY honors its historic legacy while still evolving tactics, training, and technology.

From command-level accountability and crisis decision-making to caring for firefighters and EMTs as family, this conversation offers a grounded, honest look at what it takes to lead people who risk everything—every single day.Whether you’re a first responder, a public-sector leader, or anyone responsible for others in high-pressure environments, this episode delivers timeless lessons on trust, steadiness, and leadership at scale.

IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 – Trailer: Leadership at the Highest Level in NYC
00:55 – What the Chief of Department Role Really Entails
02:54 – Leading 14,000+ Members Across Fire & EMS
03:31 – Why FDNY Faces Unique Operational Challenges
04:07 – Consistency as the Foundation of Trust
06:45 – Representing the FDNY Brand On and Off Duty
08:06 – The Role of Mentorship in Esposito’s Leadership Journey
10:25 – Staying Calm When There Are No Easy Answers
11:48 – Discipline, Accountability, and Fair Application of Policy
13:20 – The Challenge of Communicating Across a Massive Organization
14:12 – Honoring Tradition While Evolving Tactics & Technology
16:59 – Innovation, High-Rise Risk, and Fireground Data
18:54 – Why Trust Is Non-Negotiable in Firehouse Culture
22:25 – Leadership Tested During Crisis Moments
24:19 – Family, Care, and Showing Up for Your People
25:25 – Managing Pressure and Avoiding Burnout at the Top
28:43 – Culture, Probies, and Building a Winning Organization
30:38 – Teaching the Next Generation of FDNY Leaders
33:49 – Making the Hard Decisions Leaders Don’t Want to Make
35:21 – Accountability Starts at the Top
37:49 – When Leadership Conflicts With Personal Beliefs
42:07 – Budget Pressure, Resources, and Public Safety Reality
45:45 – The Legacy Chief Esposito Hopes to Leave
49:21 – Closing Reflections on Leadership and Service

ABOUT CHIEF ESPOSITO:
Chief Esposito began his career with the Department in 1991 and most recently served as Chief of Operations, where he oversaw the day-to-day work of more than 11,000 firefighters and fire officers, as well as dozens of high-ranking Staff Chiefs, Deputy Chiefs, and Battalion Chiefs.Previous to his appointment as Chief of Operations, Chief Esposito was the Chief of Special Operations Command, where his responsibilities included leading Rescue Marine, Hazardous Material Operations, and the FDNY Robotics Unit.His first assignment in 1991 was at Engine Company 324 in Queens. As a firefighter, he was also assigned to Engine Company 47 and Squad Company 18 in Manhattan. He was promoted to Lieutenant in 2001 and returned to Squad Company 18 in Manhattan. In 2003, he was promoted to Captain and worked Division 13 in Queens and in the Special Operations Command; in 2005 he was promoted to Battalion Chief and served in Battalion 13 and later Battalion 11 in Manhattan. In 2011, he was promoted to Deputy Chief and assigned to Division 1 in Manhattan, and later served in Division 3 in Manhattan. In 2017, he was promoted to Deputy Assistant Chief and named Chief of Special Operations Command. In 2020, he was promoted once again, this time to Assistant Chief. In 2022, he was promoted to Chief of Operations, where he served until becoming Acting Chief of Department in June 2024.He is a graduate of Stony Brook University, the FDNY's Fire Officers Management Institute, and has a Master's Degree in Security Studies from the Naval Postgraduate School. Chief Esposito has also served as the Intelligence and Analysis Section Chief at the FDNY's Center for Terrorism and Disaster Preparedness. He also serves on the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) High-Rise Building Safety Advisory Committee.

LINKS & RESOURCES:
- Chief John Esposito | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-m-esposito-830aa112/)
- FDNY | Web (https://www.nyc.gov/site/fdny/)
- FDNY | Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/fdny/)
- FDNY | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/FDNY)
- FDNY | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-york-city-fire-department/)

LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE:
- YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@theleadershipcrucible)
- Apple Podcasts (https://tinyurl.com/5f2mxvfj)
- Spotify (https://tinyurl.com/5xvp5wyu)

CONNECT WITH US:
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Web (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/)
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/theleadershipcruciblefoundation)
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-leadership-crucible-foundation/)
- Chief Bruegman | Instagram (https://instagram.com/chiefbruegman)
- Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/leaders-of-tomorrow-podcast)

MUSIC CREDITS:
- You Were There Instrumental - CHPTRS (MB01GWD6NYA7CYS)
- Fanfare For The Common Man
- This Is The Good Life (Instrumental) - MOONWATER (MB01CTIIAZV80UU)

Rewriting the Mental Health Playbook for First Responders with Lt. Taylor Montey

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 23:18:19 +0000

Fire Lieutenant and Licensed Professional Counselor Taylor Montey brings a rare, dual-perspective to the conversation around resilience: she has lived the realities of frontline service and the deep work of clinical mental health. In this episode of The Leadership Crucible Podcast, Taylor shares how early setbacks, self-doubt, and an unexpected path into the fire service shaped her passion for merging fitness, therapy, and leadership development. From building confidence after failing her first physical ability test, to founding Mindset Reps—a program blending movement, psychoeducation, and mentorship—Taylor offers a fresh blueprint for how first responders can strengthen both body and mind. She unpacks why burnout and trauma hit this profession so uniquely, why EMDR is so effective for processing critical incidents, and how peer support, accountability, and community accelerate healing. Whether you’re a firefighter, a leader responsible for others, or someone navigating a high-pressure calling, this conversation delivers grounded strategies for developing resilience, setting boundaries, and leading with emotional intelligence.

IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 – Trailer: Taylor Montey on Mental + Physical Resilience
00:56 – Why Taylor Never Planned on the Fire Service
03:15 – Discovering Purpose Through EMT Work
05:16 – The Physical Test She Failed — And How It Fueled Her
06:29 – Becoming #1 on the Hiring List: A Three-Year Climb
08:12 – Advice for Young Adults Who Feel Lost or Behind
10:27 – Where the Idea for Mindset Reps Came From
11:40 – How Fitness Builds Confidence, Trust, and Breakthroughs
13:36 – Stories of Transformation: Teens & First Responders
15:03 – Why Vulnerability Comes Easier After a Workout
16:51 – EMDR Explained: How It Helps First Responders Process Trauma
20:21 – The 30-Day Window: Understanding Trauma vs. Stress
22:41 – Shift Coaching Program: Building Leaders Through Accountability
26:45 – The Power of Peer Groups & the Hot Seat Model
27:40 – Expanding Shift to Local Government & Beyond
28:26 – How Taylor Balances Firefighting, Counseling, Family & Leadership
30:52 – Why Firefighters Lose Balance — And How to Rebuild It
33:57 – Leadership at Any Rank: Relational Influence Matters
34:20 – The Self-Care Practice That Surprises Most People
35:53 – How to Transition from Work Mode to Family Mode
37:10 – What’s Next for Mindset Reps
39:09 – Serving Underserved Youth Through Mental & Physical Wellness
42:29 – Advice for Leaders Building Resilience & Purpose
47:18 – Closing Thoughts & Outro

ABOUT TAYLOR:
Taylor Montey is a Fire Lieutenant, LPC, and the founder of Mindset Reps, a program designed to bridge the gap between mental and physical resilience. She holds a Master’s degree in Counseling from Colorado Christian University, where she graduated with honors. With deep experience in both mental health and fitness, she is trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I), Advanced Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), with expertise in trauma, stress, depression, anxiety, performance, addiction therapy, and domestic violence counseling. She also holds certificates in CrossFit Level 2, CrossFit Kids, and ACE, blending evidence-based mental health strategies with strength and conditioning principles. Taylor has extensive experience running and managing peer support programs for first responders and has led resiliency trainings and programs to help frontline professionals navigate the demands of their work.

LINKS & RESOURCES:
- Mindset Reps | Web (https://mindsetreps.com/)
- Mindset Reps | Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/mindset.reps)
- Taylor Montey | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/taylor-montey-b27aa3340/)

LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE:
- YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@theleadershipcrucible)
- Apple Podcasts (https://tinyurl.com/5f2mxvfj)
- Spotify (https://tinyurl.com/5xvp5wyu)

CONNECT WITH US:
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Web (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/)
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/theleadershipcruciblefoundation)
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-leadership-crucible-foundation/)
- Chief Bruegman | Instagram (https://instagram.com/chiefbruegman)
- Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/leaders-of-tomorrow-podcast)

MUSIC CREDITS:
- Brother - LIGHTS & MOTION (MB01BF9VZMERWZA)
- Fanfare For The Common Man - This Is The Good Life (Instrumental)
- MOONWATER (MB01CTIIAZV80UU)

How World-Class Hospitality Turned Culver’s Into a Household Name with Craig Culver

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 17:00:08 +0000

Before it was a billion-dollar brand, Culver’s was a single struggling restaurant in Sauk City, Wisconsin — and Craig Culver nearly walked away after the first year.In this episode of The Leadership Crucible Podcast, Chief Randy Bruegman sits down with Craig Culver, co-founder of Culver’s Restaurants, to explore the humble beginnings and values-driven leadership that shaped one of America’s most beloved hospitality brands. From working the fryer at age 11 to leading a franchise empire with over 1,000 locations, Craig shares the pivotal lessons that shaped his journey: how culture is your competitive edge, why people—not customers—come first, and what happens when you lead with humility, gratitude, and genuine care.If you’ve ever thought success was about systems or strategy alone, this conversation is a masterclass in how hospitality, consistency, and character scale a legacy.

IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 – Intro: Meet Craig Culver, Co-Founder of Culver’s
02:05 – The Family Business Begins: A&W, Dishwashing & Fryers at Age 11
04:31 – Generational Leadership & Culture That Lasts
08:25 – The First Culver’s Opens — and Almost Closes
10:27 – What Craig Learned About Leadership from His Parents
12:21 – The Secret Sauce: Hospitality, Quality & Culture
16:13 – Why Culture Is More Than a Buzzword
16:56 – The Most Important People Aren’t Customers — They’re Team Members
20:19 – Becoming a Fabric of the Community
24:27 – Hiring from the Heart: Selecting the Right Franchisees
27:45 – Staying Humble When You’ve Built 1,000+ Locations
30:23 – The Future of Culver’s & Passing the Torch
33:21 – Craig’s Advice to Emerging Leaders: Find Balance, Listen to Your Spirit

ABOUT CRAIG:
Craig Culver is the co-founder and former CEO of Culver’s Restaurants, one of America’s most beloved quick-service chains known for its signature ButterBurgers, fresh frozen custard, and warm Midwestern hospitality. What began as a single struggling restaurant in Sauk City, Wisconsin, has grown into a nationwide brand with over 900 locations — built on Craig’s steadfast commitment to quality, service, and people.The son of restaurateurs George and Ruth Culver, Craig learned the value of hard work and hospitality early — washing dishes and running fryers as a young boy before stepping into leadership himself. In 1984, he and his family opened the first Culver’s, guided by a simple but powerful mission: “Every guest who chooses Culver’s leaves happy.”Today, Craig is celebrated not just as an entrepreneur, but as a culture-builder whose people-first leadership has inspired generations of franchisees, employees, and business leaders. Though retired from day-to-day operations, he remains actively involved in the Culver’s Foundation and continues to champion the values that made the brand what it is today.

LINKS & RESOURCES:
- Culver’s | Web (https://www.culvers.com)
- Culver’s | Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/culvers)
- Culver’s | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/culvers/)
- Culver’s | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/culversrestaurants/)
- Culver’s | YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/user/CulversRestaurants)

LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE:
- YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@theleadershipcrucible)
- Apple Podcasts (https://tinyurl.com/5f2mxvfj)
- Spotify (https://tinyurl.com/5xvp5wyu)

CONNECT WITH US:
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Web (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/)
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/theleadershipcruciblefoundation)
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-leadership-crucible-foundation/)
- Chief Bruegman | Instagram (https://instagram.com/chiefbruegman)
- Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/leaders-of-tomorrow-podcast)

MUSIC CREDITS:
- Fanfare For The Common Man
- This Is The Good Life (Instrumental) - MOONWATER (MB01CTIIAZV80UU)

Customer Service Expert: “The SILENT KILLER of Business Is Just-Okay Service” — with Stephen Merrill

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 16:41:02 +0000

Mediocre customer service doesn’t just annoy people — it quietly destroys your reputation, revenue, and retention. In this episode of The Leadership Crucible Podcast, Retired Fire Chief Randy Bruegman sits down with customer experience strategist and bestselling author Stephen Merrill to unpack why “just-okay service” is more dangerous than outright failure — and what leaders can do to fix it.

With insights from his book The Customer Service Cookbook, Stephen breaks down actionable strategies for transforming your team’s culture, empowering frontline employees, and creating unforgettable customer experiences — without needing a billion-dollar budget or a complete company overhaul. He challenges leaders to stop blaming customers, start training with clarity, and embrace service as a daily discipline that builds long-term loyalty.

Whether you’re leading a public safety agency, a real estate office, or a startup on the rise, this episode will change the way you think about culture, coaching, and consistency — and show you why the smallest service details often have the biggest impact.

IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 – Intro: Meet Stephen Merrill, Customer Experience Specialist
03:02 – Why “Just-Okay Service” Is the Silent Killer of Business
06:40 – The Real Cost of Burnout, Bad Attitudes & Busy Culture
10:05 – What Great Leaders Do to Build Empowered Teams
13:48 – Recipes vs. Rhetoric: Turning Values Into Action
17:32 – The Hidden Link Between Leadership and Customer Experience
20:45 – Training That Works: “Model It, Teach It, Expect It”
24:20 – Real-World Lessons from Real Estate & Retail
28:05 – How to Coach Without Micromanaging
31:44 – Building Culture That Scales: Systems vs. Slogans
35:30 – Final Reflections: Your Reputation Is Your Menu

ABOUT STEPHEN:
Stephen Merrill is a customer experience specialist, keynote speaker, and the founder of SWAN – Service Without All the Nonsense, where he helps organizations simplify service by cutting out complexity and focusing on human connection. He’s also the bestselling author of The Customer Service Cookbook — a field manual for leaders who want to build systems and cultures that deliver remarkable results.

Stephen leads growth & development at Keyes Realtors and has trained over 4,000 business owners across industries in retention, revenue growth, and service excellence. His approach blends hospitality, empathy, and operational rigor — teaching leaders to see service as a design challenge, not a cost center. He lives at the intersection of practical systems and relational leadership — turning everyday interactions into loyalty-building moments.

LINKS & RESOURCES:
- Customer Service Cookbook by Stephen Merrill (https://tinyurl.com/u3jufes5) - Stephen Merrill | YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@StephenMerrillService)
- Stephen Merrill | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-merrill-921273174/)
- Stephen Merrill | Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/stephenmerrill_)
- SWAN | Service Without All The Nonsense (https://www.greatservicestartshere.com/)

LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE:
- YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@theleadershipcrucible)
- Apple Podcasts (https://tinyurl.com/5f2mxvfj)
- Spotify (https://tinyurl.com/5xvp5wyu)

CONNECT WITH US:
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Web (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/)
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/theleadershipcruciblefoundation)
- The Leadership Crucible Foundation | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-leadership-crucible-foundation/)
- Chief Bruegman | Instagram (https://instagram.com/chiefbruegman)
- Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/leaders-of-tomorrow-podcast)

MUSIC CREDITS:
- Fanfare For The Common Man
- Valleys - Inward Oceans (MB01PQG1DRXCHR3)
- This Is The Good Life (Instrumental) - MOONWATER (MB01CTIIAZV80UU)

Inside the California Highway Patrol: A Bold New Era with Commissioner Sean Duryee

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 23:04:00 +0000

Public trust in law enforcement has never been more important — or more complex. In this episode of The Leadership Crucible Podcast, Retired Fire Chief Randy Bruegman sits down with Commissioner Sean Duryee, the 17th Commissioner of the California Highway Patrol (CHP), to explore how one of the largest state police agencies in the nation is navigating change.

Commissioner Duryee offers a clear, thoughtful look into the internal and external pressures facing public safety leaders today. With a 27-year career spanning every rank in the CHP, his perspective reflects both operational experience and a deep commitment to service. This conversation addresses the challenges of modern policing, from recruiting and retaining the next generation of officers, to embracing transparency, technology, and training that meets today’s demands.

Rather than relying on rhetoric or soundbites, Commissioner Duryee speaks to the steady, values-based leadership required to steward a department of over 11,000 employees and a $3.2 billion budget — all while serving millions of Californians.For anyone interested in public leadership, civic responsibility, or how large institutions evolve with integrity, this episode provides timely and practical insight.

IN THIS EPISODE:
00:00 – Intro: Meet Commissioner Sean Duryee
03:25 – The Weight of Leading 11,000 Officers
06:40 – Inside the CHP: Scale, Structure, and Mission
09:10 – From U.S. Army to CHP: A Journey of Service
13:48 – Leading Through Crisis: Mental Health & Critical Incidents
17:32 – Culture Change Starts With Listening
21:05 – Recruitment, Retention & the New Generation of Officers
25:12 – Transparency, Training, and Public Trust
28:47 – Technology, Body Cams, & Accountability
31:44 – Coaching Basketball and Staying Grounded
34:30 – The Power of Humility in Law Enforcement
37:15 – Final Reflections: Why Bold Leadership Matters

ABOUT COMMISSIONER DURYEE:
Sean Duryee is the 17th Commissioner of the California Highway Patrol (CHP), appointed by Governor Gavin Newsom in 2023. A 27-year veteran of the CHP and a U.S. Army veteran, Commissioner Duryee now leads the nation’s largest state police agency, overseeing a $3.2 billion operational budget and nearly 11,000 sworn officers and civilian employees tasked with protecting millions across the Golden State.Commissioner Duryee has held every rank in the Department since entering the CHP Academy in 1998, rising through roles such as Academy Instructor, Commander of the Commercial Vehicle Section, Special Representative to the Legislature, Executive Assistant to the Commissioner, and Deputy Commissioner. His leadership has been pivotal in modernizing officer training and advancing public safety initiatives, including the implementation of the Advanced Officer Safety Training Program. He is also a recipient of the Governor’s Employee Safety Award.Beyond his official duties, Duryee is a lifelong servant leader. He’s taught community self-defense courses, mentored youth through local church groups, and spent over a decade coaching high school basketball, where he currently serves as a varsity women’s head coach.Commissioner Duryee holds an A.A. in Sociology from Sacramento City College and a B.A. in Criminal Justice Management from Union Institute & University. He is a graduate of the FBI National Executive Institute (Class #47). His leadership is marked by a firm belief in community service, integrity, and fair and impartial policing — qualities he brings to a new era of law enforcement in California.

LINKS & RESOURCES:
- Sean Duryee | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sean-duryee-94b40a36a/)
- California Highway Patrol (https://www.chp.ca.gov/)
- YouTube | California Highway Patrol (https://www.youtube.com/user/TheCHPChannel)
- Facebook | California Highway Patrol (https://www.facebook.com/chp/)

LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE:
- YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@theleadershipcrucible)
- Apple Podcasts (https://tinyurl.com/5f2mxvfj)
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- Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/leaders-of-tomorrow-podcast)

MUSIC CREDITS:
Fanfare For The Common Man
Ascend - Waes Hael (MB018SYEBHE3TNL)
This Is The Good Life (Instrumental) - MOONWATER (MB01CTIIAZV80UU)

“I Lived in My Car at 18. Now I Run One of America’s Top Cities" | Mike Goodrum of Sugar Land, Texas

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 16:00:08 +0000

“I lived in my car at 18. Now I run one of America’s top cities.” That’s not a soundbite. It’s the real story of Mike Goodrum — the City Manager of Sugar Land, Texas — and a living example of how resilience, empathy, and leadership collide.

In this episode of The Leadership Crucible, retired Fire Chief Randy Bruegman sits down with Mike for a brutally honest conversation about what it really takes to lead in public service today. From surviving homelessness to leading through the Parkland High School shooting, Mike shares how hardship shaped his leadership philosophy — and why building trust in government starts with transparency, not perfection.

You’ll hear about the problem with political theater, why city leaders must embrace relevance over tradition, and how servant leadership rooted in vulnerability can transform communities from the inside out.This episode isn’t just for public officials. It’s for anyone who wants to lead with heart, build better systems, and create cultures that don’t just survive, but thrive.

00:00 – Intro:
From Homeless Teen to City Manager
03:15 – The Broken Culture of “Perfection” in Government
06:42 – Why Empathy Builds Better Leaders
10:38 – Surviving the School Shooting Response
14:55 – Rebuilding Trust with Transparency
18:00 – “Political Theater Is Killing Progress”
21:32 – Culture Isn’t Buzzwords — It’s Behavior
25:44 – What Young Leaders Need to Know About Relevance
28:51 – Humility, Partnership, and the Puzzle of Public Service
33:17 – What Real Resilience Looks Like in Leadership
36:48 – Final Thoughts: Leading With Purpose and PerspectiveABOUT MIKE:

Mike Goodrum is the City Manager of Sugar Land, Texas, where he leads a diverse, inclusive, and award-winning community of over 110,000 residents with a focus on innovation, resilience, and people-first leadership.

With more than 25 years in local government — including previous roles as Assistant City Manager of Sugar Land and City Manager of Coral Springs, Florida — Mike brings deep experience in public administration, civic engagement, and organizational development. He currently leads a team of 900+ employees and manages a $350M+ budget, all while maintaining Sugar Land’s AAA bond rating, lean staffing model, and top-tier satisfaction scores from citizens and employees alike.Mike is an ICMA Credentialed Manager and a graduate of Texas A&M University. He’s passionate about building high-performance organizations that blaze new trails — relentlessly pursuing the good so that residents, employees, and businesses can enjoy a life better than they imagined.

Whether navigating a city through a mass tragedy like the Parkland school shooting or pioneering transparent governance through crises like COVID, Mike’s leadership is defined by humility, relevance, and results.

LINKS & RESOURCES:
- Mike Goodrum | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelgoodrum25/)
- City of Sugar Land (https://www.sugarlandtx.gov/)
- City of Sugar Land | Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/sugarlandtxgov)

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- Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/leaders-of-tomorrow-podcast)

MUSIC CREDITS:
Fanfare For The Common Man
This Is The Beginning (Instrumental) - Lights & Motion (MB01ZYTIXH84LK9)
This Is The Good Life (Instrumental) - MOONWATER (MB01CTIIAZV80UU)

Why Traditional Risk Management Is Failing Companies In 2025 with Dr. Gav Schneider

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 16:29:26 +0000

In an era of global disruption, outdated systems, and mounting complexity, risk management isn’t enough — and leaders who rely on traditional models are falling behind. In this episode, Chief Randy Bruegman sits down with Dr. Gav Schneider — martial artist, risk strategist, and author — to unpack why resilience is the new core competency for modern leadership.

Drawing on decades of experience in protective security, executive education, and high-performance systems, Dr. Schneider explains why most risk strategies are reactive, compliance-driven, and disconnected from real decision-making. He introduces the concept of Presilience® — a proactive, opportunity-focused approach that fuses risk intelligence, mindset, and culture into a single leadership philosophy.

You’ll hear why post-crisis learning often fails, how siloed thinking undermines innovation, and why building resilient leaders means developing emotional intelligence, adaptability, and ethical alignment across generations.If you’re ready to stop playing defense and start leading through disruption — this conversation is your blueprint.

00:00 – Episode Intro & Welcome
02:20 – From Martial Arts to Risk Management
06:50 – Why Resilience Begins in the Mind
11:33 – What Most Risk Registers Miss
15:48 – Beyond Survival: Building Learning Cultures
21:00 – How Power Skews Decision-Making
25:58 – Tactical Debriefs & the Failure to Learn
29:42 – The Human Cost of Organizational Frustration
33:04 – Disruption, Mislabeling Risk & Our Role in It
36:44 – Leading Through a New Era of Change
40:51 – Developing Next-Gen Leaders for Uncertain Times
46:38 – Final Reflection & Call to Action

ABOUT DR. GAV:
Dr. Gav Schneider is a globally respected authority in risk intelligence, resilience, and human-centered leadership. With a background in martial arts, protective security, and behavioral science, he has advised governments, Fortune 500s, and emergency response agencies on how to lead in the face of complexity and crisis.He is the CEO of Risk 2 Solution Group and the founder of the Presilience® framework — a model designed to move leaders from reactive to proactive thinking by embedding resilience, agility, and opportunity-focused decision-making. Gav is also an academic, speaker, and author whose work bridges neuroscience, psychology, and organizational strategy to help leaders thrive in dynamic environments.His latest book, Presilience: Leadership for the Uncertain Future, offers a new playbook for building high-performing teams and navigating polycrisis environments with clarity and courage.

LINKS & RESOURCES:
- Risk 2 Solution Group (https://risk2solution.com/)
- Dr. Gav’s Book - Presilience (https://tinyurl.com/2sjhx6kv)
- Dr. Gav Schnieder | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-gav-schneider)
- Risk 2 Solution | Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/risk2solution/)

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- Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/leaders-of-tomorrow-podcast)

MUSIC CREDITS:
Fanfare For The Common Man
This Is The Beginning (Instrumental) - Lights & Motion (MB01ZYTIXH84LK9)
This Is The Good Life (Instrumental) - MOONWATER (MB01CTIIAZV80UU)

How To Build A Feedback Culture That Actually Works | Margie Mauldin, President of Executive Forum

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 18:22:06 +0000

Great leaders don’t just give feedback—they model it. And in a culture where trust is eroding, avoidance is normalized, and conflict is feared, feedback may be one of the most urgent leadership tools we have.

In this episode, Chief Randy Bruegman sits down with Margie Mauldin, bestselling author of Feedback Revolution and founder of Executive Forum, to unpack how feedback done right can shape culture, unlock growth, and define legacy. With over 30 years of experience coaching leaders across corporate, government, and nonprofit sectors, Margie shares how feedback can move from fear to focus—and why most leaders wait too long to say what needs to be said.

You’ll hear how a fractured business relationship led her to take a bold leap of ownership, how Stephen Covey mentored her through her early years, and how one conversation with her son changed the trajectory of her career. She unpacks the difference between motivation and ability, the role of emotional preparation in giving feedback, and why ego and time are the two biggest enemies of honest communication.This conversation is more than professional development—it’s a personal challenge. Whether you lead a city department or a startup team, Margie’s clarity and conviction will help you build the kind of culture people want to be part of—and grow in.

ABOUT MARGIE:
Marjorie (Margie) Mauldin, Executive Forum’s owner and president, is an energetic and creative leader. In the past 30 years, Margie has earned the trust of the Denver business community as an entrepreneur and successful business owner. She effectively manages Executive Forum’s global client list that includes a variety of compelling projects such as strategic planning for the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Colorado and Arizona state departments of transportation and iLoveFeedback® certification and training for IHS Markit, Pinal County (AZ), City & County of Denver, Arapahoe County (CO), Riverside County (CA), State of Michigan, University of Alberta (CAN), South Metro Fire Rescue Authority, City of Aurora, Department of the Army, Department of Housing and Urban Development, the National Parks Service and Comcast. Presentations include the 2014 Correctional Accreditation Manager’s Association, 2015 NeighborWorks Training Institute, 2016 ATD International Training Conference and Expo, 2017 International Brain Summit, the 2017 and 2018 Rocky Mountain Project Management Symposium, 2018 National Organization of Trusted Advisors and the 2019 Strategic Government Resources Servant Leadership Conference. Scheduled presentations include the 2019 Western Region IPMA-HR Annual Conference and the 2019 COSHRM State Conference. Margie’s best-selling book, Feedback Revolution: Building Relationships & Boosting Results, now in its second printing, focuses on organizational culture, performance review systems, employee engagement, communication and accountability.

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LINKS & RESOURCES:
- Executive Forum (https://executiveforum.net/)
- Feedback Revolution Book (https://tinyurl.com/yc76ew6w)

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Inside Oklahoma State’s GROUNDBREAKING Fire Leadership Program | Joe Bennett, Director of Fire Science

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 10:00:08 +0000

Fire service is evolving — and so is the way we train its leaders. In this forward-thinking episode, Chief Randy Bruegman sits down with Joe Bennett, Director of Fire Service Training at Oklahoma State University-Oklahoma City, to explore how one of the nation’s most respected hands-on programs is reshaping firefighter education. But this isn’t just about tactical skills — it’s about forming character, cultivating leadership, and preparing the next generation for a world of complex challenges.

With decades of experience in fire service, education, and executive development, Joe unpacks what makes OSU’s program different — from immersive simulations to leadership-driven coursework that pushes students beyond the fireground. You’ll hear about how mentorship is built into the curriculum, why OSU’s model is drawing national attention, and what every leader can learn from the fire service’s values of discipline, humility, and service.Whether you’re a fire chief, a public safety professional, or an educator shaping tomorrow’s leaders, this episode will challenge your assumptions about technical training — and inspire you to think bigger about what real leadership development looks like.

0:00:00 — Introduction
00:02:15 — Joe’s Journey from Firefighter to Program Director
00:06:32 — What Makes OSU’s Fire Program So Unique
00:11:45 — Building Leadership Through Simulation and Scenario-Based Training
00:17:08 — The Critical Role of Mentorship in Developing the Next Generation
00:21:30 — Bridging Tactical Excellence with Emotional Intelligence
00:25:40 — Challenges Facing Fire Service Education Today
00:30:10 — What Every Sector Can Learn from the Fire Service
00:33:55 — Final Reflections: The Future of Hands-On Leadership Training

ABOUT JOE:
Joe Bennett serves as the Director of the Fire Science Program at Oklahoma State University–Oklahoma City (OSU-OKC), where he leads one of the nation’s most forward-thinking fire service education programs. Under his leadership, the program has experienced 65% growth in enrollment—defying national trends in higher education—through strategic partnerships, community engagement, and a relentless focus on relevance and innovation.

Bennett oversees a diverse instructional team delivering hands-on and academic training across four flagship initiatives: the Structural Firefighter Training Program, the Fire Investigator Training Program, the Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Program, and a new Tactical Fitness Program for firefighters. He also designed and launched a statewide workforce development initiative that enables high school students to graduate as certified structural firefighters—accelerating both access and impact.

Beyond the classroom, Bennett has positioned OSU-OKC as a hub for national and international collaboration, hosting events such as the Women’s Tactical Performance Conference, the Firefighter Challenge League Southwest Divisional Championship, and the 2025 National Championship. His leadership style centers on team development, faculty empowerment, and mission-aligned growth.With a passion for shaping future-ready leaders, Bennett continues to advance the fire service by blending operational excellence, strategic thinking, and a deep commitment to service. His work is not only transforming firefighter education — it’s building a new model for leadership development in public safety.

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RESOURCES:
- Oklahoma State | Fire Service Training (https://www.osufst.org/)
- Joe Bennett | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-bennett-22717581)
- Servant Leadership by Robert Greenleaf (https://tinyurl.com/3k59fej8)
- One-Minute Manager by Ken Blanchard (https://tinyurl.com/4hsdmh3r)

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MUSIC CREDITS:
Fanfare For The Common Man
Face - Meaning Machine (MB01IE1PXOUK6GH)
This Is The Good Life (Instrumental) - MOONWATER (MB01CTIIAZV80UU)

Navy Admiral: America’s REAL Threat Is a Failure of Character | Rear Admiral Mike Studeman

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 22:00:08 +0000

Leadership isn’t about titles — it’s about trust. And right now, trust is breaking down at every level. In this compelling conversation, Chief Randy Bruegman sits down with retired U.S. Navy Rear Admiral Mike Studeman — former Director of Intelligence for both the U.S. Indo-Pacific and Southern Commands — to explore why America’s greatest threat may not be geopolitical, but moral. With 35 years of military service, global intelligence leadership, and national security briefings behind him, Admiral Studeman brings unmatched clarity to the character crisis shaping modern leadership.

Drawing from defining moments in his career — from leading multi-national teams to confronting senior leaders with uncomfortable truths — Admiral Studeman unpacks what he calls iron integrity: the kind of moral courage forged in small, unseen decisions long before crisis strikes. You’ll hear his early lessons in accountability (including a story involving a marble, a Mercedes, and a summer’s worth of babysitting money), his philosophy of speaking truth to power, and his take on how moral compromise at the highest levels erodes the very foundation of democracy.

But this isn’t just about national security or military leadership. It’s about the everyday choices that shape who we become — and whether we can be trusted when the stakes are highest. Whether you’re a young professional or a seasoned executive, this episode will challenge you to rethink how you lead, who you admire, and what kind of legacy you’re building.

0:00:00 — Introduction
00:01:53 — A Childhood Lesson in Accountability (and a Cracked Windshield)
00:05:35 — What “Iron Integrity” Really Means
00:10:17 — Character, Compromise, and the Collapse of Trust
00:13:26 — Leading Through Ambiguity and Global Complexity
00:17:57 — Humility, Empathy, and Building International Partnerships
00:23:40 — Moral Gray Areas: Justice vs. Mercy, Short-Term vs. Long-Term
00:28:28 — The Cost (and Power) of Speaking Truth to Power
00:33:50 — Advice for Young Leaders: Learning, Modeling, and Courage
00:41:48 — Global Challenges, Civic Responsibility, and the Medici Effect
00:49:05 — Social Media, Civility, and the Need for Moral Maturity
00:51:40 — Final Reflections: Choosing the Harder Right

About Mike:
Rear Admiral Mike Studeman (Ret.) is one of the nation’s most respected national security professionals, with more than three decades of global leadership across intelligence, foreign policy, and defense. A retired U.S. Navy flag officer and former Commander of the Office of Naval Intelligence, Studeman has led intelligence operations at every level — tactical, strategic, joint, and interagency — supporting combat missions from Desert Storm to Afghanistan and shaping strategy against threats from China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea.As Director of Intelligence (J2) for both U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and U.S. Southern Command, Studeman provided critical assessments that shaped America’s global posture. He also commanded the Joint Intelligence Operations Center at U.S. Cyber Command and remains a recognized authority on Asia-Pacific affairs, with deep expertise on China’s global ambitions.

Appointed by President George W. Bush as a White House Fellow in 2005, Studeman is the only naval officer to have served as Special Assistant to the Chief of Naval Operations, the Vice Chief, and the U.S. Fleet Forces Commander. He holds distinguished academic honors in Mandarin Chinese, Asian affairs, and strategic studies, and is a graduate of the College of William and Mary, the Defense Language Institute, the Naval Postgraduate School, and the National War College.Now retired from active duty, Studeman continues to advise top organizations on leadership, resilience, and national security. He is the author of Might of the Chain: Forging Leaders of Iron Integrity, a powerful call to rebuild trust in a fractured world. He lives with his college sweetheart and is the proud father of two sons.

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RESOURCES:
- Mike Studeman | Web (https://www.mikestudeman.com/ )
- Mike Studeman | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikestudeman/)
- Mike Studeman | X (https://x.com/mikestudeman)
- Mike’s Book | Might Of The Chain: Forging Leaders of Iron Integrity (https://tinyurl.com/aemtshbk)
- Media Bias Chart (https://app.adfontesmedia.com/chart/interactive)

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MUSIC CREDITS:
Fanfare For The Common Man
Evermore - Generdyn (MB01GPT0VQK4JM2)
This Is The Good Life (Instrumental) - MOONWATER (MB01CTIIAZV80UU)

Crisis Expert, Melissa Agnes: Most Organizations FAIL Before The Crisis Even Starts

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 17:16:50 +0000

Crisis leadership isn’t about reacting faster — it’s about thinking differently. In this powerful conversation, Chief Randy Bruegman sits down with Melissa Agnes, founder of the Crisis Ready® Institute and one of the world’s most trusted voices on crisis management, to explore why most organizations fail before the crisis even starts — and how the best leaders prepare for pressure long before it arrives.Drawing from her work with NATO, the Pentagon, Fortune 500 companies, and major municipalities, Melissa unpacks the Crisis Ready® model — a three-part framework built on mindset, skillset, and capability.

But this isn’t just a checklist. It’s a call to lead with emotional intelligence, clarity, and conviction — especially when the stakes are high.You’ll hear stories of courageous leadership that saved millions, strategies for navigating disinformation and digital chaos, and practical tools to turn fear-based reactions into trust-building responses. Whether you’re leading a business, a government agency, or a community organization, this episode will challenge the way you think about crisis — and equip you to lead with greater strength, humanity, and purpose.

0:00:00 - Introduction
00:02:35 - Melissa’s Path Into Crisis Leadership
00:08:13 - Why Most Organizations Fail Before Crisis Hits
00:13:41 - The Crisis Ready® Model: Mindset, Skillset, Capability
00:19:00 - Case Study: $9 Million Saved Through Courageous Leadership
00:24:23 - Crisis Leadership in the Age of AI, Disinformation, & Chaos
00:28:51 - Advice for the Next Generation of Leaders
00:34:08 - Final Thoughts: Leading With Connection, Not Control

About Melissa:
Melissa Agnes is a globally recognized thought leader, author, and strategist in crisis communication and leadership resilience. As the Founder and CEO of the Crisis Ready® Institute, she developed the widely adopted Crisis Ready® Model—a five-phase framework that helps organizations anticipate risk, respond with clarity, and build unshakable trust, even in the face of high-stakes disruption. Her work equips leaders and organizations to not only survive crises, but emerge stronger because of them.Melissa is the author of the best-selling book Crisis Ready: Building an Invincible Brand in an Uncertain World, which was named one of Forbes’ Top 10 Business Books of 2018. Her model is taught in universities across the globe, including Harvard, NYU, Columbia, and McGill. She’s served as a trusted advisor to top-level institutions such as NATO, the Pentagon, ministries of foreign affairs and defense, Fortune 100 companies, healthcare systems, municipalities, and non-profits—helping them embed strategic resilience into their culture before a crisis ever strikes.

In addition to her consulting and executive coaching work, Melissa is a sought-after keynote speaker and media contributor. Her insights have been featured in outlets including Forbes, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, MSNBC, Bloomberg, Fox Business, and CNN. She has also delivered a TEDx talk in Los Angeles and continues to shape best practices in the field through her involvement with the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP), the Institute for Strategic Risk Management (ISRM), and her co-development of ISO 22361, the international standard for crisis management.

Through her teaching, writing, and advisory work, Melissa Agnes is reshaping how leaders think about crisis—not as a moment to fear, but as a defining opportunity to lead with integrity, clarity, and care.

LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE:
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RESOURCES:
- Melissa Agnes | Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/melissaagnes)
- Melissa Agnes | LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissaagnes/)
- Melissa Agnes | YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/c/melissaagnes)
- Leading Through Change With Melissa Anges | Podcast (https://crisisreadyinstitute.com/podcast/)
- Crisis Ready Institute (https://crisisreadyinstitute.com/)
- Melissa’s Book | Crisis Ready: Build An Invincible Brand In This Uncertain World (https://tinyurl.com/2hu7nssu)

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- Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast (https://www.theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org/leaders-of-tomorrow-podcast)

MUSIC CREDITS:
Fanfare For The Uncommon Man
This Is The Beginning (Instrumental) - Lights & Motion (MB01ZYTIXH84LK9)
This Is The Good Life (Instrumental) - MOONWATER (MB01CTIIAZV80UU)

EPISODE 059: ANDY BERNDT | GOOGLE CREATIVE LAB

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 12:36:50 +0000

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

How did a basketball walk-on for Coach K become a powerhouse in the advertising world and beyond? Tune in to the Leadership Crucible Foundation podcast to unravel the captivating story of finding purpose through perseverance and seizing opportunities fearlessly.

In this episode, you will lear about:

Overcoming adversity: Learn valuable leadership lessons from navigating challenging circumstances and emerge stronger and more resilient.
Fostering trust: Master the art of building trust in leadership roles to inspire confidence and loyalty among your team members.
Seamless career transitions: Discover effective strategies for transitioning careers to ensure a smooth and successful shift to a new professional path.
Technological impact on leadership: Embrace the transformative power of technology in leadership and leverage it to drive organizational success.
Uncover purpose and meaning: Explore the keys to finding profound purpose and meaning in your career, leading to fulfillment and satisfaction.

My special guest is Andy Berndt

Andy Berndt, a seasoned professional, has transitioned from a successful tenure in advertising to a prominent role at Google. His extensive experience includes leadership positions at renowned organizations such as Ogilvy, where he played a pivotal role in the turnaround of the IBM account, and Chiat/Day, where he contributed to the relaunch of the Apple brand. Andy's impressive track record encompasses notable achievements, including overseeing the launch of the Apple online store and leading segments of the Microsoft account. His accomplishments have been widely recognized by industry bodies in the US and abroad, culminating in his induction into the Hall of Achievement in 2007. With a bachelor's degree in English Literature from Duke University and a background in basketball under Coach K, Andy's multifaceted journey exudes a wealth of expertise in navigating career transitions and finding purpose in professional pursuits.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:02 - Facing Adversity and Leadership

00:01:21 - Journey to Advertising

00:02:02 - Basketball and Leadership

00:10:39 - Life after Duke

00:14:23 - Working with Major Companies

00:15:32 - Unexpected Promotion

00:17:34 - Dream Job at Nike

00:19:21 - Meeting Steve Jobs

00:22:58 - Transition to IBM

00:27:20 - Evolution at Google

00:30:51 - Building Trust and Community in a Diverse World

00:32:26 - Navigating Disagreements in the Age of Social Media

00:33:24 - Making a Difference in Life

00:34:30 - Pursuing Meaningful Work

00:35:43 - Leaving a Lasting Legacy

EPISODE 058: PATRICK VAN HORNE | BAM WEATHER

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 17:05:12 +0000

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

Do you want to enhance your leadership effectiveness and build organizational resilience? Ready to discover the solution to achieve this result? Join Fire Chief Randy Bruegman and emergency management expert Patrick Van Horne as they delve into the challenges of leadership in changing environments and the strategies for disaster preparedness. Get ready to unlock the key to navigating complexity and leading with competence. Don't miss out on this insightful episode of the Leadership Crucible Foundation podcast!

In this episode, we will cover these topics:

Navigate Leadership Challenges in Changing Environments: Master the art of leading through uncertainty and change, ensuring organizational resilience and success.

Cultivate Situational Awareness for Effective Leadership: Develop a keen understanding of your surroundings to make informed decisions and inspire confidence in your team.

Overcome Personal Adversity to Forge Your Career Path: Harness the power of resilience to turn personal challenges into opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.

Implement Disaster Preparedness Strategies for Organizational Resilience: Safeguard your organization against unforeseen events, ensuring continuity and stability.

Elevate Leadership Effectiveness Through Competence: Acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to lead with confidence, driving organizational success and growth.

My special guest is Patrick Van Horne Patrick Van Horne, a distinguished emergency management and homeland security professional, brings a wealth of expertise as a Marine veteran, consultant, and co-author of "Left of Bang: How the Marine Corps' Combat Hunter Program Can Save Your Life." His focus on disaster preparedness and security, coupled with a deep understanding of situational awareness and proactive violence prevention, provides valuable insights for leaders navigating changing environments and challenges. With a keen eye for enhancing leadership capabilities and guiding executives through complex organizational hurdles, Patrick's presence on the Leadership Crucible Foundation podcast promises to deliver impactful strategies and perspectives to foster enhanced leadership effectiveness and organizational resilience.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:03 - The Crucible of Adversity
00:01:31 - Journey to the Military
00:03:34 - Left of Bang Book
00:06:15 - Behavioral Analysis and Situational Awareness
00:13:14 - Left of Bang in Business
00:15:39 - Building Organizational Capabilities
00:18:37 - Life-Changing Moments
00:20:02 - Team Rubicon's Mission
00:23:15 - Leadership Lessons
00:27:25 - The Current State of Leadership
00:30:36 - Importance of Long-Term Thinking
00:31:50 - Communication Challenges
00:33:45 - Stability and Grounding in Leadership
00:37:35 - Importance of Communication for Future Leaders
00:38:20 - Pursuing Hard Things

EPISODE 057: FRANK KEATING | FORMER GOVERNOR OF OKLAHOMA

Sat, 23 Nov 2024 00:21:38 +0000

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

Does it seem like you're facing insurmountable challenges in your path to leadership? Have you been told to simply "tough it out" or "wait for things to get better"? The frustration of feeling stuck in adversity without a clear way forward can be overwhelming. If you're tired of ineffective advice and want to discover real strategies for overcoming adversity through leadership, then this is for you.

In this episode, you will learn the following:

-Mastering Adversity: Uncover strategies to conquer challenges through effective leadership.
-Education for Success: Discover the pivotal role of education in achieving personal triumphs.
-Navigating Career Choices: Unveil the profound impact of personal decisions on career trajectories.
-Political Success Strategies: Explore effective tactics for achieving bipartisan success in politics.
-Community Support: Embrace the significance of community aid in navigating crisis recovery.

My special guest is Frank Keating Frank Keating served as the Governor of Oklahoma from 1995 to 2003, demonstrating exceptional leadership during a challenging period in the state's history. His notable contributions include leading the state's recovery efforts after the devastating 1995 bombing of the Alpha P. Murrow Federal Office Building in Oklahoma City. Governor Keating implemented significant tax reductions and reforms, particularly in the education system, the state's purchasing system, and the workers' compensation system. His dedication to public service and his extensive experience in law enforcement and public office provides valuable insights into overcoming adversity, the role of education in personal success, and the impact of personal choices on career paths. Governor Keating's expertise and experience make him a compelling guest for the Leadership Crucible Foundation podcast, offering invaluable perspectives on leadership, resilience, and community support.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:03 - The Importance of Adversity in Leadership
00:01:20 - Frank Keating's Contributions as Governor
00:01:48 - Frank Keating's Journey into Public Service
00:06:52 - Leadership During the Oklahoma City Bombing
00:11:27 - Community Support and Resilience
00:16:54 - Leadership and Service in Oklahoma
00:18:51 - Accomplishments as Governor
00:22:51 - Post-Political Career
00:27:20 - Authoring Children's Books
00:28:58 - Challenges and Takeaways
00:34:12 - Getting Involved in Public Life
00:34:23 - Appreciation and Invitation
00:35:08 - Conclusion and Invitation

Bio:

Frank Keating grew up in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and received his undergraduate degree from Georgetown University and a law degree from the University of Oklahoma.

His 30-year career in law enforcement and public service included service as an FBI agent, U.S. Attorney and state prosecutor, and Oklahoma House and Senate member, including service as a Republican senate leader. He served Presidents Ronald Reagan and George H.W. Bush in the Treasury, Justice, and Housing departments.

As Governor, Keating won national acclaim in 1995 for his compassionate and professional handling of the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal building in Oklahoma City. In the aftermath of the tragedy, he raised more than six million dollars to fund scholarships for the nearly 200 children left with only one or no parents.

Keating currently serves as a regent for the University of Oklahoma and lives with his wife Cathy in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. They have three children and eleven grandchildren.

EPISODE 056: BRIGADIER GENERAL JOHN "DRAGON" TEICHERT | US AIR FORCE

Fri, 08 Nov 2024 15:21:44 +0000

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To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
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Why Today's Leaders Must Meet Innate Needs to Love and Belong

Do you want to implement impactful leadership strategies for personal and team growth? Are you eager to learn the solution that can help you achieve this result? Join the Leadership Crucible Foundation podcast as Fire Chief Randy Brugman delves into the personal journeys of leaders, including retired Brigadier General John Teichert. His insights and experiences will provide you with the guidance you need to develop as a leader and make a lasting impact.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Mastering Leadership Development: Unveiling proven strategies for personal and team growth.
Triumphing Over Adversity: Embracing challenges to emerge as a resilient leader.
Embodying Selfless Leadership: Harnessing the power of putting others first for organizational success.
Navigating Bureaucratic Environments: Pioneering innovation in structured settings for impactful change.
Harnessing Mentorship for Career Growth: Unlocking the potential of mentorship for professional advancement.

My special guest is Brigadier General John Teichert

Brigadier General John Teichert is a distinguished leader with a robust career rooted in inspirational, innovative, and integrity-filled leadership. Graduating from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Stanford University, he ventured into the United States Air Force as an F15E combat pilot, later assuming roles including F22 test pilot and Commander of Joint Base Andrews. General Teichert's prolific career spans over 28 years, marked by over 2000 flight hours in 38 different types of aircraft and extensive leadership experience in whole-of-government settings. With a wealth of knowledge in national security, risk management, and international affairs, General Teichert's insights on leadership and mentorship offer invaluable guidance to aspiring leaders seeking impactful career growth and personal development. Author of Boom, Leadership that Breaks Barriers

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:03 - The Crucible of Leadership

00:02:00 - An Inspirational Journey

00:09:24 - Boom: Leadership that Ignites Innovation

00:12:53 - Leading Selflessly

00:15:45 - Overcoming Adversity and Toxic Leadership

00:17:30 - Commanding Joint Base Andrews and Edwards Air Force Base

00:20:45 - Leadership and Impact

00:23:01 - Investing in People

00:29:46 - State of Leadership in Society

00:30:37 - Importance of Investing in the Next Generation

00:31:16 - Sound Bite Leadership vs. Strategic Vision

00:32:25 - Fulfilling Fundamental Human Needs

00:34:52 - Leadership Across Generations

00:37:35 - Multi-Generational Impact of Leadership

Bio:

After graduating from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Stanford University, John entered the United States Air Force as an F-15E combat pilot. He would go on to serve as an F-22 test pilot and eventually lead as the commander of Joint Base Andrews, the commander of Edwards Air Force Base, and our nation’s Senior Defense Official in Iraq. General Teichert ended his service in the Air Force as the Assistant Deputy Undersecretary of the Air Force, International Affairs. During his career, he logged over 2,000 flight hours in 38 different aircraft types.

General Teichert is a champion for inspirational, innovative, integrity-filled leadership. He has vast whole-of-government leadership experience – from cutting-edge technology to our nation’s most sensitive international relationships. John has written and spoken extensively on leadership, national security, innovation, risk management, and international affairs. He is an Amazon #1 best-selling author and a former candidate for U.S. Senate who maintains a robust schedule of international-level media engagements.

John is the founder and president of Capital Leadership LLC, developing the leaders our nation needs and fostering a leadership style that breaks barriers, challenges convention, and ignites innovation. His eclectic activities can best be followed through johnteichert.com and LinkedIn as he continues to serve with his amazing wife Melonie and their three remarkable children.

EPISODE 055: CHIEF RICHARD KELLY | OAKLAHOMA CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 19:09:33 +0000

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

The Heart of a First Responder: Serving People and Finding Meaning

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the constant pressure to be a perfect leader, striving for an unattainable standard, and struggling to find your purpose and balance in your career, then you are not alone! The quest for ideal leadership can often lead to burnout and relational strain, making it difficult to achieve true fulfillment and success.

In this episode, you will cover:

-Overcoming adversity cultivates resilient leadership skills, essential for navigating challenging situations in the fire and emergency services.

-Achieve a harmonious work-life balance to enhance your leadership effectiveness and overall well-being.

-Embrace the transformative power of technology to revolutionize your leadership approach in the fire and emergency services.

-Uncover the deeper meaning in your firefighting career, igniting a sense of purpose that drives impactful leadership.

-Master effective crisis management strategies to safeguard your team and community during emergencies.

My special guest is Chief Richard Kelly

Chief Richard Kelly, the esteemed fire chief of the Oklahoma City Fire Department, boasts a distinguished career spanning over three decades in the fire and emergency services. Chief Kelly's journey, which commenced in 1991, has seen him ascend through various pivotal roles within the fire community, showcasing an unwavering commitment to leadership and excellence. His active involvement in esteemed organizations such as the International Association of Fire Chiefs and Leadership Crucible Foundation Association highlights his dedication to advancing the field. Chief Kelly's academic accomplishments, including a Bachelor of Technology in Emergency Responder Administration from Oklahoma State University, alongside his successful completion of multiple leadership programs, underscore his relentless pursuit of professional growth. Beyond his illustrious career, Chief Kelly's devotion to literature, family, physical fitness, and community engagement reflects his multifaceted approach to life and leadership.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:02 - Introduction to the Podcast

00:01:23 - Chief Richard Kelly's Background

00:03:32 - Chief Kelly's Journey into the Fire Service

00:06:20 - Experience at the Oklahoma City Bombing

00:14:54 - Building Relationships and Collaboration

00:16:37 - Personal Growth and Transformation

00:19:04 - Leadership Lessons from Adversity

00:23:26 - Evolving Nature of Leadership

00:29:49 - Leading with Responsibility

00:30:47 - Embracing Technology

00:31:30 - Adapting to Technology

00:32:26 - Overcoming Challenges

00:33:19 - Finding Purpose and Balance

Bio:

Oklahoma City Fire Chief Richard A. Kelley joined the Oklahoma City Fire Department in 1991 and was appointed Fire Chief in September 2017. He was promoted through the ranks in suppression and also held the positions Special Operations Coordinator, Technical Rescue Station Officer, Ride-out Officer, Battalion Chief, Deputy Chief of Support Services and Deputy Chief of Operations. He is a Fire Instructor Level II, EMT, HazMat Technician, Rescue Technician, Dive Team Member and OK-TF1 Task Force Leader. Chief Kelley was an adjunct instructor for Eastern Oklahoma County Vo- Tech Fire Training Academy mentoring and training students for over a decade.

He is a member of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the Oklahoma Fire Chiefs Association (OFCA) and the Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association. Chief Kelley is the President for the Oklahoma State Fire Chiefs Association, he also serves on the Board for the YMCA of Greater OKC, Ex Officio Member and Conscience Committee of the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum Board of Trustees and the OSU-OKC Fire Protection AAS and BT Degree Advisory Board.

Chief Kelley has been recognized for many awards throughout his career, Captain/Major of the year in 2005 and Major of Special Operations in the Work Section of the Year in 2006.

Chief Kelley has an A.A.S.in Municipal Fire Protection and a Bachelor of Technology in Emergency Responder Administration from Oklahoma State University. He has attended the National Fire Academy for multiple classes and completed the Oklahoma Executive Fire Officer Leadership Program in 2015 and Leadership OKC (Class 37) in 2018.

Along with his wife Liz, Chief Kelley’s household includes daughters Mikayla, Johnna and Addison, and stepchildren Emily and Nick and grandchildren Karter Jaye, Gunner Barron, Erin, and Legend. He enjoys spending time with his family and physical fitness. He attends Life Church NW.

EPISODE 054: DOMINIC SIMS | INTERNATIONAL CODE COUNCIL, INC

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 17:34:08 +0000

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

Paying It Forward: Guidance for the Next Generation of Leaders Does this sound familiar?

Have you ever been told that to become a better leader, you simply need to follow the rules and stick to the status quo? But despite doing so, you're still struggling to see the results you desire, feeling stuck and unable to make a meaningful impact in your field? If you're tired of ineffective advice that leaves you feeling stagnant and unfulfilled in your leadership journey, it's time to explore a new approach that will truly elevate your impact and effectiveness.

In this episode, you will learn about:

Overcoming Adversity: Develop resilience and strength as a leader through navigating challenges and obstacles.

Ensuring Building Safety: Enhance your expertise in building safety and code compliance for robust and secure structures.

Global Building Code Expansion: Explore the opportunities and challenges of international expansion of building codes for sustainable development.

Adapting to Climate Change: Understand the impact of climate change on building standards and learn strategies for resilience in the face of environmental shifts.

Bridging Generational Communication: Master the art of effective communication across generations to foster harmony and productivity in building safety and development.

My special guest is Dominic Sims Dominic Sims has been the CEO of the International Code Council since 2012, overseeing the association's activities and financial performance. With extensive experience in the building safety field since 1983, Sims has held elected and appointed positions at federal, state, and local levels, actively participating in public safety discussions concerning building safety. He has been pivotal in the expansion of building codes internationally, focusing on developing model codes and standards for safe and resilient buildings. His commitment to streamlining the building regulatory process and driving effective communication across generations reflects his dedication to enhancing leadership skills for safer and more resilient buildings.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:02 - The Importance of Adversity and Leadership
00:02:18 - Dominic's Personal Journey
00:07:40 - Global Expansion and Lessons Learned
00:12:24 - Communicating Across Generations and Cultures
00:18:35 - Addressing Climate Change and Building Safety
00:20:54 - ICC mission and affordability
00:22:36 - Leadership vs. Management
00:26:23 - Lessons for New Leaders
00:30:43 - Challenges for Future Leaders
00:36:32 - Vision and Mission
00:39:30 - Reconnecting and Looking Forward
00:39:40 - Gratitude and Farewell

EPISODE 053: BRIGADIER GENERAL JIM SWANSON (RET.) | SHATTERED DESTINY

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 19:13:01 +0000

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

In this episode, you will learn about: Extracting Leadership Lessons from Military Experience: Uncover invaluable insights into effective leadership strategies honed in demanding military environments. Mastering the Art of Overcoming Adversity in Leadership: Acquire proven techniques for navigating and triumphing over challenges in leadership roles. Fostering Cohesive Remote Teams: Learn to build and maintain strong, unified teams in the context of remote work, ensuring productivity and collaboration. Embracing Personal Accountability in Leadership: Cultivate a culture of personal responsibility and integrity to drive success and growth within your organization. Strategizing to Nurture the Next Generation of Leaders: Unlock effective approaches for identifying, mentoring, and empowering the future leaders of your industry. My special guest is Jim Swanson Brigadier General Jim Swanson's distinguished career spans over three decades, marked by his exceptional leadership roles in the military and high-level civilian positions. Graduating from Purdue University with a BA in journalism, he embarked on a journey that led him to become a judge advocate military lawyer, serving in various legal and military leadership positions globally, including operational deployments to the Middle East. His profound experiences and insights into overcoming adversity, building cohesive teams, ensuring personal accountability, and nurturing the next generation of leaders offer invaluable contributions to the exploration of leadership crucibles. With a rich history of resilience and achievement, General Swanson brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the podcast, promising to provide profound leadership lessons derived from his military experience and subsequent leadership endeavors. The key moments in this episode are: 00:00:02 - The Importance of Adversity and Leadership 00:00:52 - Introduction of Brigadier General Jim Swanson 00:02:25 - Jim Swanson's Journey and Family Influence 00:08:18 - Legacy and Family Values 00:11:33 - The Role of JAG Corps and Leadership Lessons 00:15:45 - Importance of Open Communication 00:17:37 - Handling Crisis and Making Decisions 00:20:08 - Characteristics of Exceptional Leaders 00:24:50 - Lessons from Bad Leaders 00:27:50 - Personal Accountability in Leadership 00:31:43 - The Importance of Debate and Dialogue 00:33:06 - Shattered Destiny: A What If Thought Experiment 00:34:44 - Writing "Shattered Destiny" 00:36:49 - Lessons for the Next Generation of Leaders 00:39:13 - Paying It Forward and Leaving It Better

EPISODE 052: RICHARD LORENZEN | FIFTH AVENUE BRANDS

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 21:35:50 +0000

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

Turning Adversity into Opportunity: Lessons from a Young Entrepreneur

Does it feel like your leadership skills are being put to the test? Perhaps you've been advised to "just tough it out" in the face of challenges, but the lack of effective results is leaving you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of your capabilities. If you're struggling to navigate the complexities of leadership in today's polarized times, you're not alone. It's time to explore more effective strategies for building resilience and honing your soft skills to lead with confidence and impact.

In this episode, you will learn about:

Mastering Effective Crisis Communication Strategies: Learn to navigate and communicate effectively in times of crisis, ensuring your leadership and business are resilient and adaptable.

Developing Essential Leadership Skills for Young Entrepreneurs: Acquire the crucial leadership skills required to lead and inspire in today's dynamic business landscape.

Cultivating Resilience in Leadership: Discover the strategies for building resilience, enabling you to lead with confidence and determination, even in the face of adversity.

Recognizing the Importance of Soft Skills in Leadership: Understand the significance of soft skills in leadership, empowering you to create a positive and impactful leadership style.

Navigating Leadership Challenges in Polarized Times: Learn how to navigate and overcome leadership challenges in today's polarized climate, ensuring you lead with empathy and clarity.

My special guest is Richard Lorenzen Richard Lorenzen, an American entrepreneur, investor, and CEO of Fifth Avenue Brands, a prominent New York-based public relations firm, has been recognized for his expertise in media relations and crisis communication within the financial services and public policy sectors. With notable features in CNBC, Forbes, Fox News, Business Insider, PR, and Inc. Magazine, Richard's professional journey, which commenced at the age of 15, offers practical insights into effective crisis communication strategies, leadership skills for young entrepreneurs, and the significance of soft skills in leadership. His thought leadership in navigating leadership challenges in polarized times brings a wealth of experience to the Leadership Crucible Podcast, providing aspiring young entrepreneurs and leaders with valuable perspectives and strategies for success.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:02 - Facing Adversity and Forging Leaders
00:01:19 - Starting a Business at 15
00:08:11 - Crisis Communication and Proactive Planning
00:13:36 - Family Influence and 9/11 Impact
00:17:02 - Obligation to Serve and Paying it Forward
00:18:07 - Qualities of Effective Leaders
00:22:08 - Leading Oneself
00:26:36 - State of Leadership in Society
00:31:00 - Emerging Issues for Young Leaders
00:34:26 - Advice for the Next Generation
00:36:07 - Finding Passion in Leadership
00:36:25 - Encouragement for Young Leaders
00:37:25 - Optimism for the Future
00:37:57 - Gratitude and Farewell

EPISODE 051: AMANDA M. BARON-FRANK | THE FRANK LAW FIRM P.C.

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 21:57:36 +0000

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

Do you desire resilience and growth in your personal and professional development? Are you seeking solutions to overcome adversity and achieve success?

Join the Leadership Crucible Foundation Podcast as Chief Randy Bruegman delves into the personal journeys of leaders like Amanda Baron-Frank. Discover how she navigated challenges in her legal career, transitioned to entrepreneurship, and shaped her leadership approach. Find out how she overcame obstacles and how her insights can inspire your own journey to success.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Overcome Adversity in Leadership: Develop resilience and overcome challenges to excel in leadership roles.

Embrace a Growth Mindset for Young Professionals: Cultivate a mindset focused on growth and continuous improvement to achieve professional success.

Navigate the Challenges of Starting a Law Firm: Learn to overcome obstacles and establish a successful legal practice.

Explore the Impact of Leadership on Society: Understand the profound influence of leadership on shaping societal dynamics and progress.

Transition from Public Service to Entrepreneurship: Master the art of transitioning from public service to entrepreneurship for a successful career shift.

My special guest is Amanda Baron-Frank Amanda Baron-Frank, a prominent figure in the legal and entrepreneurial spheres, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table. With a strong foundation in criminal law, honed during her tenure at the Miami Dade State Attorney's Office, Amanda's journey from public service to founding and managing a successful law firm with her husband exemplifies her resilience and adaptability. Her focus on residential and commercial real estate, coupled with her commitment to maintaining a work-life balance, offers valuable insights for young professionals navigating the challenges of leadership and personal growth. Amanda's dedication to legal ethics, wellness, and her passion for social causes underscores her role as a leader committed to making a positive impact on society and fostering growth in the legal profession.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:02 - The Crucible of Leadership
00:01:18 - Amanda's Journey to Leadership
00:03:37 - Challenges of Prosecutorial Work
00:06:20 - Balancing Roles in the Legal Profession
00:09:37 - Leadership and Adversity
00:15:55 - Embracing a Growth Mindset
00:18:01 - Overcoming Self-Limiting Beliefs
00:21:48 - Leading with Kindness
00:26:50 - The State of Leadership in Society
00:31:34 - Doing the Right Thing
00:31:56 - Importance of Respect for Civil Servants
00:32:46 - Support for Civil Servants
00:33:26 - Current Challenges for the Next Generation
00:34:41 - Overcoming Fear and Distractions

EPISODE 050: SHANE BROWN | FRESNO FIRE DEPARTMENT

Wed, 14 Aug 2024 19:21:04 +0000

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

Stepping Back to Move Forward

Are you a firefighter or public service professional who has faced intense adversity? Have you been told to just tough it out, keep your head down, and push through the pain? The frustration of feeling stuck in a stagnant environment and the fear of losing your sense of purpose can be overwhelming. If this sounds familiar, you're not alone. Join us as we explore the extraordinary journey of Captain Shane Brown from the Fresno Fire Department. Learn how he overcame a profound crossroads in his life and found a new purpose that transformed his personal and professional growth.

In this episode, you will learn about how:

Overcoming adversity provides invaluable leadership lessons, fostering resilience and adaptability in the face of challenges.
Crucial incidents have a profound impact on organizational culture, shaping values and guiding decision-making processes.
Embracing purpose in personal and professional life ignites motivation and drive, leading to greater fulfillment and success.
Transitioning from public service to personal exploration opens up new avenues for growth and self-discovery, enriching both professional and personal perspectives.
Implementing strategies for personal growth and resilience empowers individuals to navigate adversity and achieve their full potential.

My special guest is Shane Brown

Captain Shane Brown has accumulated over 24 years of experience in fire and public service, specializing in water rescue, hazardous materials, and fire investigation. As a registered state fire training instructor and a training officer, his expertise has significantly influenced his leadership journey. His transition from public service to personal exploration, particularly in sailing and traveling the Caribbean, provides valuable insights into the impact of crucial incidents on organizational culture, the importance of purpose in personal and professional life, and effective strategies for personal growth and resilience. Shane's firsthand experiences and leadership lessons from overcoming adversity offer a unique perspective that deeply resonates with firefighters and public service professionals, enriching their knowledge and fostering personal development.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:02 - Facing Adversity and Leadership

00:01:16 - Shane's Decision to Resign

00:05:09 - Sailing Around the World

00:10:28 - The Search for Purpose

00:11:59 - The Journey Back

00:12:44 - Early Career Reflections

00:14:13 - Choosing Between Long Beach and Fresno

00:15:34 - Differences Upon Returning

00:16:29 - Impact of the Sartre Report

00:23:51 - Understanding the Sart Report

00:25:37 - Lessons from Leadership Experience

00:27:28 - Setting Expectations as a Leader

00:30:54 - The Importance of Caring

00:32:17 - Embracing Change and Growth Mindset

00:34:55 - Cultivating a Growth Mindset

00:36:49 - Overcoming discomfort and personal growth

00:37:27 - Avoiding negativity and divisiveness

00:38:27 - Embracing positivity and taking action

00:39:16 - Reconnecting with human interaction

00:39:47 - Gratitude and humility

EPISODE 049: ALEXA CHILCUTT, PH.D. | CAREY BUSINESS SCHOOL

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 18:32:17 +0000

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

Leading Through Change: Guiding Multi-Generational Teams in Turbulent Times

Join Chief Bruegman as he delves into the personal journey of Dr. Alexa Chilcutt, a certified executive coach and faculty lead for executive business communications at Johns Hopkins Carey Business School. Discover how her experience as a director of a large program shaped her perspective on leadership and how she overcame the challenges of transitioning from an individual contributor to a leader. Dr. Chilcutt's insights on the importance of executive presence and inclusive multigenerational workplaces will leave you reevaluating your approach to leadership.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Mastering Leadership Resilience: Overcoming Adversity to Thrive in Challenging Environments.
Cultivating Executive Presence: Commanding Influence and Inspiring Confidence as a Leader.
Transitioning to Leadership: Unleashing Your Potential as a Team Leader and Decision-Maker.
Fostering Inclusive Workplaces: Embracing Diversity Across Generations for Enhanced Team Performance.
Elevating Team Communication: Implementing Effective Strategies for Seamless Collaboration and Productivity.

My special guest is Alexa Chilcutt

Dr. Alexa Chilcutt, a certified executive coach and faculty lead for the executive business communications certificate at Johns Hopkins Carey Business School, brings a wealth of expertise in communication and leadership development to the table. With an MA in public relations and a PhD in communications and information sciences from the University of Alabama, Dr. Chilcutt has delivered custom training on executive presence, team leadership, and impression management for corporate clients, including Allstate, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama, IGUS, and Johns Hopkins International Medicine Concierge Services. Her extensive experience in academia and working with professionals gives her unique insights into the challenges faced by mid to senior-level leaders as they navigate the complexities of team communication, leadership transitions, and creating inclusive workplaces.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:02 - Facing Adversity and Leadership

00:01:50 - Speaker Introduction and Executive Education

00:03:07 - Trends in Professional Development and Leadership Challenges

00:08:44 - Shaping Leadership through Personal Experiences

00:13:23 - Creating and Maintaining Organizational Culture

00:16:39 - The Value of In-Person Interaction

00:20:50 - Executive Presence and Career Advancement

00:27:46 - Multigenerational Workforce and Inclusive Leadership

00:29:46 - Book Recommendation: Lead to Win

00:31:35 - Challenges in Transitioning to Leadership

00:34:02 - The Value of Leadership Education

00:35:11 - Transitioning into Leadership Roles

00:35:56 - Setting Expectations for New Leaders

00:36:47 - Importance of Mentorship

00:37:41 - Closing Remarks

EPISODE 048: JONNA KIRSCHNER | CNI MANUFACTURING

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 16:31:04 +0000

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

From Courtroom to Factory Floor: An Attorney's Unexpected Leadership Journey

In a surprising twist, a corporate attorney found herself leading a manufacturing group for the Chickasaw Nation. How did her Oklahoma roots and legal background equip her for this unexpected journey? Stay tuned for an unconventional career trajectory and the leadership lessons that emerged, shaping her into an extraordinary leader.

In this episode, you will learn about how:

Overcoming adversity builds resilient leaders who inspire and guide their teams through challenges.
Transitioning from law to manufacturing equips professionals with diverse skills and perspectives, driving innovation and efficiency in the industry.
Engaging in volunteer work enhances professionals' leadership abilities, fostering empathy and a broader understanding of community needs.
Cultivating a positive workplace culture cultivates high morale, productivity, and loyalty among employees, leading to business success.
Embracing diversity in leadership roles enhances decision-making, innovation, and overall organizational performance.

My special guest is Jonna Kirschner

Jonna Kirschner, a seasoned professional with a background in corporate law and economic development, currently holds the esteemed position of president at CNI Manufacturing, LLC, a subsidiary of Chickasaw Nation Industries Incorporated. With a law degree from Boston College Law School and a wealth of experience practicing as a corporate attorney in both Oklahoma City and London, England, Jonna brings a unique perspective to the Leadership Crucible Foundation podcast.

Her intriguing journey from the legal realm to the manufacturing industry offers valuable insights into the importance of volunteer work for professionals, the creation of a positive workplace culture, and the benefits of diversity in leadership roles. Jonna Kirschner's story embodies resilience, adaptability, and a positive leadership mindset, making her a compelling guest for professionals seeking career growth and leadership development.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:02 - The Importance of Adversity and Leadership

00:01:26 - Journey from Attorney to President of CNI Manufacturing

00:09:50 - Legal Practice in England

00:13:53 - Leadership in Manufacturing

00:16:09 - Lessons from Basketball and Team Dynamics

00:17:15 - The Power of Unity

00:18:43 - Building Trust and Connection

00:23:48 - Mission and Purpose

00:28:08 - The Importance of Volunteering

00:33:52 - Trusting the Timing of Your Career

00:34:10 - Embracing Positivity and Gratitude

00:34:47 - Career as a Journey, not a Destination

00:34:47 - Invitation to Share Adversity Stories

00:34:47 - Conclusion and Next Episode Preview

EPISODE 047: BRYAN ADAMS | PH.CREATIVE

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 22:56:33 +0000

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

Becoming An Authentic Employer Brand To Attract Top Talent

Have you ever heard the myths about employer branding that could be holding you back from attracting top talent? Here are three myths: 1. Employer branding is only for large organizations. 2. Employer branding is just about being attractive to everyone. 3. Employer branding is primarily for marketing, not leadership. Let's explore the unexpected strategies for authentic employer branding.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Overcoming adversity: Learn how to navigate and triumph over challenges to emerge stronger and more resilient in the face of adversity.
Building employer brand reputation: Discover the key strategies to enhance your company's reputation as an employer, attracting top talent and fostering a positive work environment.
Aligning company culture with business strategy: Uncover the essential methods for aligning your company's culture with its business objectives to drive success and employee satisfaction.
Attracting top talent through authentic employer branding: Master the art of attracting top talent by creating an authentic employer brand that resonates with potential employees, setting your company apart in the competitive job market.
Leadership challenges in volatile times: Explore the critical skills and tactics necessary for effective leadership in times of volatility, ensuring stability and success for your organization.

My special guest is Bryan Adams

Bryan Adams, the CEO and founder of PH Creative, is a trailblazing figure in the realm of employer branding, renowned for his disruptive and pioneering methodologies. With an illustrious client roster including industry titans such as Apple, Nike, Peloton, and Ford, Bryan has solidified his reputation as a maverick in crafting top-tier employer brand EVP and talent engagement strategies. As a thought leader, he stands as a two-time best-selling author, a contributor to the esteemed Harvard Business Review, and a highly sought-after speaker on the intricacies of employer branding. Bryan's unorthodox yet transformative approaches have reshaped the industry landscape, challenging established paradigms and reshaping organizational perspectives on employer branding and employee value proposition. Leveraging his extensive expertise, Bryan provides invaluable insights into the profound impact of authentic employer branding on attracting, engaging, and retaining top-tier talent, making him an indispensable resource for HR professionals and talent acquisition managers.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:02 - The Importance of Authentic Leadership

00:01:35 - Employer Branding and Talent Engagement

00:05:59 - Leveraging Adversity for Authenticity

00:10:56 - Culture, Capability, and Talent Acquisition

00:13:06 - Navigating the Hybrid Work Culture

00:17:46 - The Three Aspects of Employee Needs

00:18:29 - Importance of Authentic Employer Brand

00:19:35 - Three Types of Reputation

00:22:34 - Creating a Memorable Employee Experience

00:26:42 - Overcoming Leadership Challenges

Bio:

Bryan is the CEO and founder of Ph.Creative, recognized as one of the leading employer brand agencies in the world. Ph. specializes in building world-class employer brand, EVP and talent engagement strategy for companies such as Apple, Nike, Peloton and Ford.

He is considered a prominent employer brand thought leader and his creative, unconventional and even controversial methodologies are said to regularly change the way people think about employer branding and EVP.

Bryan is a two-times best-selling author, HBR contributor, podcaster and specialist speaker. His presentation style is energetic, passionate, thought-provoking and interactive, so get ready to contribute and engage.

EPISODE 046: NORA ZIMMETT | THE WEATHER CHANNEL

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 21:52:28 +0000

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
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Weathering the Storms: Advice from a Veteran News Executive

In this episode, Nora shares invaluable insights on inclusive leadership and building successful careers. But that's not all - she reveals the crucial lesson she learned from a career-altering mistake, and how it transformed her approach to leadership. Dive into Nora's captivating narrative and discover the unexpected keys to impactful leadership and professional growth.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Overcome Adversity: Learn how to develop exceptional leadership skills through adversity and emerge as a stronger and more resilient executive.
Propel Your Career: Master the strategies to build a thriving and influential career in the dynamic and competitive news media industry.
Drive Team Performance: Harness the power of inclusive leadership to elevate your team's performance and foster a culture of collaboration and achievement.
Plan for Success: Implement effective strategies for succession planning to ensure the continuity and success of leadership within your organization.
Achieve Work-Life Balance: Discover effective ways to balance the demands of a high-powered media career with family responsibilities and personal well-being.

My special guest is Nora Zimmett

Nora Zimmett, the president of original news for the Weather Group, brings a wealth of experience in the news media industry. With a distinguished career that includes roles at CNN, Bloomberg Television, and Fox News Channel, Nora has earned an Emmy Award for her work on the 2012 presidential election. Her journey from a professional actress to a senior leader in the television and digital media sector showcases her resilience and dedication. Nora's insights into inclusive leadership, the impact of leadership on team performance, and her strategies for effective succession planning make her a valuable resource for aspiring female executives in the news media industry, seeking to navigate and excel in their careers.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:02 - Facing Adversity and Becoming Better Leaders

00:01:28 - Nora Zimmett's Journey into Television and Digital Media

00:04:23 - Learning from Failure and Personal Growth

00:10:30 - Overcoming Challenges and Gender Barriers

00:15:01 - Leadership Lessons and Team Support

00:18:27 - Importance of Hiring Smart People

00:20:36 - The Weather Channel's Mission

00:23:00 - Mission-Driven Organizations

00:27:25 - Lack of Responsibility in Leadership

00:35:03 - Advice for the Next Generation

00:37:08 - Importance of Collaborative Leadership

00:37:50 - Privilege of Leadership

00:38:22 - Gratitude and Acknowledgment

00:38:46 - Conclusion and Gratitude

Full Bio:

Nora Zimmett serves as President of News and Original Series for Weather Group and is responsible for the overall editorial direction of The Weather Channel television network and Pattrn, the network’s brand dedicated to climate and the environment. Nora oversees all aspects of live programming on The Weather Channel television network – including its world-renowned, Emmy award-winning storm coverage – as well as the network’s original programming. She also oversees all weather content for the network's digital platforms, including The Weather Channel television network streaming app, and The Weather Channel Español – the nation's first 24/7 Spanish-language free-streaming weather news network, providing weather coverage and news across the U.S., the Caribbean and Latin America.

Since joining Weather Group in 2014, Nora has led the team responsible for production of the network’s flagship morning show America’s Morning Headquarters, and Storm Center, as well as its popular original shows such as Uncharted Adventure, The Earth Unlocked, and Deep Water Salvage. In addition to creating original series for The Weather Channel, Nora has developed broadcast syndication programming for Allen Media Group, such as Storm of Suspicion. Nora also led the network to two national News and Documentary Emmy awards in 2019 and 2021.

Prior to joining Weather Group, Nora served as co-creator and executive producer of “New Day Weekend” and “Smerconish” at CNN. During her CNN tenure, Nora received an Emmy Award for her work on the 2012 presidential election. Prior to her role at CNN, she held senior producer and producer roles at Bloomberg Television and Fox News Channel.

EPISODE 045: LINDA KLEIN | BAKER DONELSON

Thu, 16 May 2024 16:12:19 +0000

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

If you're feeling disheartened by the lack of impactful leadership examples in your professional journey, despite your efforts to seek them out, then you are not alone! Despite your dedication to personal growth, you may find yourself surrounded by leaders who fail to inspire and guide effectively, leaving you yearning for better role models.

In this episode, you will learn about:

Mastering Effective Leadership in Challenging Times: Learn to navigate adversity and emerge as a strong, resilient leader.

Embracing Diversity for Professional Excellence: Explore the power of diversity to drive innovation and success in the workplace.

Igniting Career Success Through Passion: Unleash the potential of your career by harnessing the force of passion.

Cultivating Trust and Integrity in Leadership: Develop the essential skills needed to build and maintain trust and integrity as a leader.

Amplifying Community Impact Through Pro Bono Work: Discover the transformative power of pro bono work and its influence on communities.

My special guest is Linda Klein Linda Klein, a highly accomplished attorney, boasts a diverse practice encompassing a wide array of legal areas such as business, dispute prevention, resolution, and risk management. With accolades including recognition as one of the best lawyers in America and being named attorney of the year in arbitration, Linda's expertise is widely acknowledged. Her impactful career journey, from serving as the president of the State Bar of Georgia to her extensive pro bono work, reflects her unwavering commitment to justice and advocacy. Linda's passion for ensuring people are treated right, inspired by her grandfather's values, has been the driving force behind her impactful legal career. Her dedication to volunteering for pro bono cases and her deep-rooted commitment to fighting injustice truly exemplify her profound influence in the legal profession.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:02 - Introduction to Leadership Crucible Podcast
00:02:29 - Linda Klein's Path to Becoming an Attorney
00:07:53 - The Impact of Pro Bono Work
00:10:24 - Embracing a Growth Mindset
00:14:20 - The Role of Work Ethic
00:16:51 - Embracing Opportunities in Work
00:19:06 - Diversity and Inclusion
00:20:03 - Passion and Leadership
00:25:41 - State of Leadership Today
00:29:28 - Challenges for the Next Generation
00:34:42 - Genuine Passion and Leadership
00:35:50 - Impact of Leadership
00:36:48 - Grassroots Coalition and Advocacy
00:37:46 - Long-term Impact
00:38:18 - Making a Difference

Bio:

Ms. Klein's practice includes most types of business dispute prevention and resolution, internal investigations, contract law, professional liability, and risk and crisis management.

Ms. Klein is also listed in The Best Lawyers in America®, Who's Who in America and Chambers USA. Best Lawyers in America® recently recognized Ms. Klein as Atlanta's "Lawyer of the Year" in Arbitration. She is regularly named to the Super Lawyers top 100 lawyers in Georgia and is also regularly named one of the top 50 female lawyers in Georgia by Super Lawyers. In 2018, she was chosen "Attorney of the Year" by the Daily Report. In 1998, following her term as the first woman to serve as president of the State Bar of Georgia, Georgia Trend Magazine named her one of the 100 most powerful and influential Georgians.

Ms. Klein is a past president for the American Bar Association (ABA), the world's largest voluntary professional association, and served in a variety of roles for the association prior to ascension to President. In 2004 the American Bar Association honored Ms. Klein with the prestigious Margaret Brent Achievement Award.

In 2013 Ms. Klein had the honor of being a McGlothlin fellow on the campuses of William and Mary's Business and Law Schools.

President Jimmy Carter appointed Ms. Klein to The Carter Center Board of Councilors for the 2019 – 2022 term. She also currently serves on the Boards of Directors of the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Presidential Precinct, and executive committee of the Buckhead Coalition, and on the advisory board of Super Lawyers. She is a past president of Southface Energy Institute, the Board of Directors' Network, the Caucus of State Bars, and past chair of both the Institute for Continuing Legal Education in Georgia and the Lawyers Foundation of Georgia. She also served a six-year term on Baker Donelson's Board of Directors.

Ms. Klein has authored numerous published works. Her lecture schedule has included presentations in France, Poland, Sweden, Spain, Russia, Croatia, Japan, Great Britain, and Canada, but most extensively in the southeast United States. She is a member of the American Law Institute, and a mediator and arbitrator, frequently serving as a neutral as well as a client advocate.

EPISODE 044: DR. RICK KNABB | THE WEATHER CHANNEL

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 18:31:47 +0000

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To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

Do you want to develop a passion, serve others, and leave a positive influence? Are you seeking to make a meaningful impact through leadership? In this episode, we'll uncover the solution to achieving these results as we delve into the leadership lessons and insights shared by Dr. Rick Knabb, an esteemed figure in meteorology and hurricane forecasting. Join us as we explore the impact of effective communication in meteorology, the role of technology in weather forecasting, and the crucial steps in preparing for natural disasters and hurricanes. Dr. Knabb's experiences and expertise will provide the key to building a successful career in atmospheric sciences. Get ready to unlock the secrets to making a difference through effective leadership.

In this episode, you will:

-Discover how to turn personal challenges into leadership opportunities.

-Learn the impact of clear communication on meteorology's critical role in public safety.

-Explore the cutting-edge advancements shaping the future of weather prediction.

-Acquire essential knowledge to safeguard lives and infrastructure during hurricanes and natural calamities.

-Uncover the key steps to building a successful and impactful career.

My special guest is Dr. Rick Knabb Dr. Rick Knabb, a prominent figure in meteorology and disaster management, brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His pivotal roles as the Director of the National Hurricane Center and the Tropical Program Manager at The Weather Channel have been instrumental in revolutionizing public awareness and safety measures for tropical storms and hurricanes. Dr. Knabb's dedication to fostering effective communication and decision support services has played a crucial role in equipping individuals and emergency managers with the necessary tools to navigate severe weather events. With a profound commitment to advancing atmospheric sciences, Dr. Knabb stands as an influential figure in shaping the discourse surrounding meteorology and disaster preparedness.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - The Crucibles that Forge Leaders

00:00:43 - Dr. Rick Knabb's Background and Expertise

00:02:52 - Empowering People to Make Decisions

00:07:18 - Forecasting and Predictive Modeling

00:16:40 - Lessons from Major Storms

00:18:07 - Understanding the Power of Water in Weather Events

00:19:33 - The Impact of Personal Experiences on Leadership

00:25:24 - The Importance of Hard Work in Leadership

00:29:44 - The State of Leadership in Society

00:33:27 - Making a Difference and Following Your Passion

00:36:07 - Building Passion through Hard Work

00:37:06 - Developing Lifelong Passion

00:38:16 - Paying It Forward

00:39:01 - Importance of Giving

00:39:17 - Conclusion and Gratitude

Bio:

Dr. Rick Knabb is The Weather Channel’s on-air hurricane expert and tropical program manager. He leads hurricane and tropical storm reporting and provides expert in-depth forecast analyses and updates for the nation’s only 24-hour source of national storm coverage.

Dr. Knabb returned to The Weather Channel in 2017 after serving as Director of the National Hurricane Center (NHC) in Miami from 2012-2017. While at the NHC, he supervised the development of various programs implemented to change the way the public understands and is warned about hurricanes, tropical cyclones, and their impacts. Dr. Knabb led the implementation of the storm surge watch and warning system, which highlights coastal and lowland areas at risk of flooding and storm surge -- often the greatest threat to life and property from cyclones and hurricanes. He also directed the development of NHC’s new Potential Tropical Cyclone advisories and Wind Arrival Timing products.

Dr. Knabb is a trusted voice in weather. During his first tenure at The Weather Channel, he led the reporting of significant events including Hurricane Irene in 2011. As NHC Director, he oversaw the hurricane center team during severe weather events including Hurricane Sandy in 2012 and Hurricane Matthew in 2016.

Prior to his first tenure at The Weather Channel, Dr. Knabb served as Deputy Director of the Central Pacific Hurricane Center in Honolulu. Before that, Dr. Knabb served as a Senior Hurricane Specialist and the Science and Operations Officer at the National Hurricane Center in Miami. He prepared and issued official forecasts during several historic weather events, including Hurricane Katrina reaching category 5 over the Gulf of Mexico in 2005.

A Chicago native, Dr. Knabb received his Bachelor’s Degree in Atmospheric Science from Purdue University. Dr. Knabb received his Masters of Science and Doctorate in Meteorologist from Florida State University and completed postdoctoral work at the University of Hawaii. He is a member of the American Meteorological Society.

EPISODE 043: RICHARD MERAZ | THE RAMPART SCANDAL

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 20:25:02 +0000

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To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

Lessons from the LAPD Rampart Scandal

Uncover the unexpected journey of a seasoned law enforcement leader who faced the ultimate crucible and emerged with invaluable wisdom. Join us as we dive into the story of Richard Meraz, a figure who battled through the depths of corruption and emerged as a beacon of resilient leadership. His insights will challenge your perspective and inspire a new approach to leadership. Stay tuned to uncover the surprising lessons learned from 43 years in the Los Angeles Police Department.

Richard's revelations will reshape your understanding of resilience, trust, and the true essence of leadership. Don't miss this extraordinary episode as we unravel the unexpected wisdom of a true law enforcement luminary.

In this episode, you will be able to:

-Gain insights into effective leadership and authenticity in policing to elevate your leadership skills.

-Discover strategies for handling emotional pain and fostering self-healing to enhance personal well-being and resilience.

-Learn the critical importance of vigilant leadership in combating corruption within law enforcement agencies.

-Uncover the principles of leaving a positive legacy in law enforcement for long-lasting impact and influence.

-Explore the significance of building trust through visible and proactive leadership in law enforcement to strengthen community relations.

My special guest is Richard Meraz

Richard Meraz served for 43 years in the Los Angeles Police Department, holding various commanding roles and playing a crucial part in restoring officer morale and community trust post the Rodney King incident. His extensive involvement in coordinating counterterrorist investigations at local and national levels, along with his contributions to the planning of the 1984 Summer Olympics, showcases his adeptness in managing high-stakes situations. Meraz's accolades, including the Valley Bureau Officer of the Year and the Department Meritorious Service Award, underscore his significant contributions to law enforcement. He currently serves as a facilitator for the California Commission of Peace Officer Standards and Training and the Simon Wiesenthal Museum of Tolerance, reflecting his commitment to law enforcement leadership. As a recipient of the Leadership Crucible Foundation Judge John "Jack" Ryan Award for Educator of the Year, Meraz's expertise in law enforcement training further solidifies his standing as a distinguished guest on the Leadership Crucible Foundation podcast.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - Facing Adversity and Leadership Standards
00:01:18 - Richard's Path to Law Enforcement
00:09:32 - The Rampart Scandal
00:11:33 - Lessons Learned from the Rampart Scandal
00:14:59 - Impact of the Rampart Scandal
00:16:23 - Reflection on Rampart Scandal
00:17:34 - Lessons Learned and Self-Healing
00:20:21 - Incremental Corruption and Leadership
00:22:02 - Establishing a Credo for Leadership
00:28:05 - The Challenge of Resilience in Law Enforcement
00:30:58 - Present, Visible, Accessible Leadership
00:33:00 - Trustworthiness and Virtue
00:33:39 - Understanding Organizational Culture
00:34:51 - Resilience and Self-Reflection
00:36:12 - Appreciation and Gratitude

EPISODE 042: JOHN GERZEMA | THE HARRIS POLL

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 18:42:40 +0000

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

In this episode, you will be able to:
-Understand the Impact of Societal Trends on Leadership
-Navigate Generational Shifts to Enhance Leadership Style
-Harness the Power of Diversity in Corporate America
-Foster Inclusive Leadership for a Diverse Workforce
-Cultivate Adversity and Resilience in Leadership

My special guest is John Gerzema

John Gerzema, a prominent figure in the realm of social science and data analytics, has made significant contributions as a New York Times bestselling author, pollster, and consultant. With a keen focus on identifying evolving societal trends, John's expertise has been instrumental in helping leaders and organizations navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing world. His extensive research, including pivotal work on post-crisis values revolution and empathetic leadership, has led to groundbreaking insights that continue to shape the future of leadership. Serving on the boards of the UN Girl Up campaign, University of the People, and National Kidney Foundation, John's influence extends beyond academia, making him a respected voice in the global discourse on leadership and societal change.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - The Crucible of Leadership
00:02:04 - The Role of Data in Social Change
00:06:00 - Post-Pandemic Lifestyle
00:11:18 - Generational Values and Capitalism
00:17:32 - The State of Leadership in Society
00:18:10 - Generational Shift and Political Cynicism
00:20:04 - Importance of Diversity in Corporate America
00:22:19 - Inclusiveness in Organizational Growth
00:26:32 - Values and Trust in Corporate Reputation
00:29:29 - Mental Health Crisis and Supporting Young People
00:35:19 - Share Your Story of Adversity
00:35:37 - Conclusion

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org

EPISODE 041: BURNS HARGIS | OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 19:17:33 +0000

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To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
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Burns Hargis' journey is a testament to the power of resilience and adaptability. From facing the challenges of being a redheaded youth with an uncommon name to navigating diverse career paths, his story is one of triumphs and unyielding determination.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Discover the leadership insights of Burns Hargis, former president of Oklahoma State University, and gain valuable perspectives on leading in academia.

Learn effective strategies for adapting to change and diverse environments, essential skills for successful leadership in the academic world.

Explore the crucial role of university fundraising and campus development in shaping the future of education and leadership.

Embrace the importance of a growth mindset and work ethic in leadership, and unlock the keys to personal and professional development in academia.

My special guest is Burns Hargis

Burns Hargis, the 18th president of Oklahoma State University, led the institution to significant milestones during his tenure. His strategic leadership resulted in record enrollment and fundraising achievements, surpassing the $1 billion campaign goal and raising over 2.2 billion in private support. Hargis' extensive background in law, finance, and business, coupled with his instrumental role in transforming the university's campus, positions him as a valuable asset for university leaders seeking to enhance their leadership capabilities and foster substantial advancements within the academic realm.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - Introduction and Leadership Crucible Podcast Overview

00:01:30 - Burns Hargis' Leadership Accomplishments at Oklahoma State University

00:03:29 - Burns Hargis' Personal Background and Early Influences

00:09:01 - Transition from Law to Business and Involvement in Politics

00:17:55 - Challenges of Non-Academic Leadership in Higher Education

00:18:49 - Challenges of Being an Academic Leader

00:22:43 - Importance of Process in Academics

00:30:42 - Lessons in Accountability and Work Ethic

00:33:23 - Making a Positive Difference

00:36:27 - Acts of Kindness

Bio:

Burns Hargis was named the 18th President of Oklahoma State University and the OSU System in December 2007 and took office March 10, 2008. On October 23, 2020, Hargis retired as president on July 1, 2021.

Hargis oversaw one of the nation’s most comprehensive land-grant university systems with more than 35,000 students, 7,000 employees, and campuses located in Stillwater, Tulsa, Oklahoma City and Okmulgee.

As president, Hargis enthusiastically united the broad OSU community of students, employees, alumni, and donors behind his bold vision of a modern land-grant university that cuts across disciplines to better prepare students for success. The results have been historic.

He guided OSU to record enrollment and record fundraising, with pledges and cash surpassing the $1 billion Branding Success campaign goal nearly two years ahead of schedule. In total, OSU raised more than $2.2 billion in private support and added more than 82,000 new donors during Hargis’ time as president.

OSU’s giving has focused on student scholarships, faculty and other vital resources and programs. Hargis also oversaw a construction boom that transformed the OSU campus to be more competitive in academics and athletics. Most recently, the crescent-shaped business building and spectacular McKnight Center for the Performing Arts are new campus icons. Guided by Hargis’ vision, the OSU campus has never looked more beautiful.

Hargis and his wife, First Cowgirl Ann, were active across campus, interacting regularly with OSU’s diverse student body. Strong proponents of wellness, they led OSU’s initiative as America’s Healthiest Campus. They also took OSU’s story of success to alumni around the world.

He has held several leadership positions related to intercollegiate athletics, serving on NCAA, Football Bowl Championship and Big 12 Conference boards.

Hargis, who holds degrees in accounting from Oklahoma State University and in law from the University of Oklahoma, is the second OSU graduate to lead the university as president. Before being named OSU President, Hargis had a long and distinguished legal and business career.

Hargis received the state’s highest honor when he was inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame in 2009. He and his wife, Ann, have two children and three grandchildren.

EPISODE 040: LOWELL APLEBAUM | VISTA COVA

Tue, 16 Jan 2024 19:46:53 +0000

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

Listening, Learning and Leading Through Adversity

Get ready for a riveting discussion with Lowell Aplebaum as he delves into the challenges of time management and communication in organizations. As the conversation unfolds, a dilemma arises that leaves the audience wondering how leaders will navigate the evolving landscape of inclusive leadership and remote work. Tune in to unravel the complexities of 21st-century leadership.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Overcoming Challenges Faced by Nonprofit Organizations: Explore effective strategies for navigating the unique obstacles encountered by nonprofit organizations.
Optimizing Time Management for Volunteers: Unlock the secrets to maximizing volunteer productivity and engagement through efficient time management techniques.
Mastering Communication in the Nonprofit Sector: Hone your communication skills to foster stronger connections and impactful collaborations within the nonprofit sector.
Empowering Younger Generation Leadership Development: Cultivate the next generation of leaders through tailored development programs designed to unleash their full potential.
Harnessing the Power of Teamwork in Organizations: Unleash the true potential of teamwork in your organization, driving collective success and fulfillment.

My special guest is Lowell Aplebaum

Lowell Aplebaum, the visionary founder of Vista Cova, is a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience in the Leadership realm. His unwavering dedication to empowering associations globally with dynamic tools and knowledge stems from his extensive background as a former association executive. As an IAF certified professional facilitator and a current doctoral candidate, Lowell brings a unique blend of expertise in guiding leaders, members, and staff through facilitation, keynoting, and a commitment to fostering authentic curiosity, experiential learning approaches, and active listening. His profound impact on numerous nonprofit organizations, driving mission strategies and board designs, coupled with his passion for philanthropic causes, solidify Lowell's position as a prominent figure in the nonprofit leadership space.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - Introduction to Crucibles of Leadership

00:01:19 - Lowell Applebaum's Journey to Vistakova

00:06:56 - Current Challenges Faced by Nonprofit Organizations

00:12:35 - Building Effective Teams and Organizational Culture

00:15:46 - Importance of Behavioral Expectations in Organizational Culture

00:16:47 - Importance of Continuous Conversation about Values

00:17:25 - Building Trust in a Virtual Environment

00:19:31 - The Need for In-Person Collaboration

00:22:06 - Embracing Inclusivity and Equity

00:26:09 - The Challenge of Leadership in the Modern Age

EPISODE 039: LEE ELLIS | LEADING WITH HONOR

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 15:52:38 +0000

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

Developing Authentic and Secure Leaders: Insights from the Hanoi Hilton

If you're feeling frustrated and exhausted because your team's performance isn't improving, despite your best efforts, then you are not alone! You may be working longer hours and pushing harder, only to see minimal results, leaving you feeling defeated. Your team may be lacking motivation and collaboration, causing a lack of progress towards your goals. Instead of seeing a united and driven team, you are faced with resistance and stagnation.

In this episode, you will learn to:

Extract Leadership Lessons from Being a POW: Uncover the extraordinary resilience and adaptive leadership skills developed in challenging circumstances.

Embrace Authentic and Vulnerable Leadership: Embrace the power of authenticity and vulnerability in leadership to build trust and inspire others.

Balance Results and Relationships in Leadership: Master the art of balancing achieving results with nurturing meaningful relationships for sustained success.

Engage in Courageous Conversations and Accountability: Learn to navigate difficult conversations and foster a culture of accountability to drive organizational growth and development.

Cultivate Continuous Learning and Adaptability in Leadership: Foster a culture of continuous learning and adaptability to thrive in today's rapidly changing business environment.

My special guest is Lee Ellis Lee Ellis, the founder and president of leading with Honor and Freedom Star Media, is a distinguished figure known for his exceptional career as an Air Force fighter pilot. His extensive experience includes flying 53 combat missions over North Vietnam and enduring over five years as a POW. With a proven track record as an award-winning author, leadership coach, and expert speaker, Lee has worked with influential clients, including Fortune 500 senior executives and sea level leaders across multiple sectors. His profound insights into leadership, team building, and human performance have solidified his reputation as a respected authority in the field. With his compelling personal journey and in-depth understanding of leadership, Lee Ellis is a highly esteemed guest on the Leadership Crucible Foundation podcast, poised to share invaluable lessons from his time as a POW.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:03:00 - Lessons from Vietnam POW Experience
00:08:39 - Transitioning Back and Impact on Profession
00:15:26 - Importance of Integrity, Courage, and Conviction
00:16:06 - The Role of Courage in Maintaining Integrity
00:16:43 - Coaching Yourself and Seeking Ethical Advice
00:18:07 - Balancing Mission and People
00:20:02 - Having Courageous Conversations
00:24:31 - Building a Culture of Accountability
00:31:10 - The Importance of Continuous Growth and Listening
00:33:18 - Learning to Listen and Influence
00:34:04 - Leveraging Bottom-Up Solutions
00:35:20 - Self-Development and Growth
00:36:24 - Mentoring and Learning from Others
00:41:16 - Key Takeaways on Leadership

Bio:

Lee Ellis is Founder and President of Leading with Honor® and Freedom Star Media®. He is an award-winning author, leadership coach, and expert speaker in the areas of leadership, teambuilding, and human performance. His past clients include Fortune 500 senior executives and C-Level leaders in telecommunications, healthcare, military, and other business sectors. Some of his media appearances include interviews on networks such as CNN, CBS This Morning, C-SPAN, ABC World News, Fox News Channel, plus hundreds of engagements in various industry sectors throughout the world.

Early in his career, Lee served as an Air Force fighter pilot flying fifty-three combat missions over North Vietnam. In 1967, he was shot down and held as a POW for more than five years in Hanoi and surrounding camps. For his wartime service, he was awarded two Silver Stars, the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star with Valor device, the Purple Heart, and POW Medal. Lee resumed his Air Force career, serving in leadership roles of increasing responsibility including command of a flying squadron and leadership development organizations before retiring as a colonel.

Lee has a BA in History and a MS in Counseling and Human Development. He is a graduate of the Armed Forces Staff College and the Air War College. He has authored or co-authored six books on leadership and career development. Lee’s book entitled Leading with Honor®: Leadership Lessons from the Hanoi Hilton has received multiple awards since its release including Winner in the 2012 International Book Awards in the Business and Management Category, and selection on the 2013 U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff Reading List. His latest bestselling book is entitled Captured by Love: Inspiring True Romance Stories from Vietnam POWs.

Lee and his wife Mary reside in the Atlanta GA area and have four grown children and six grandchildren.

For free leadership resources from Lee Ellis, visit: leadingwithhonor.com

EPISODE 038: ROBERT PETERSON | UNDERSHERIFF (RET.)

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 18:53:17 +0000

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

My special guest is Robert Peterson.

Robert Peterson, a retired law enforcement professional with 33 years of service at the Orange County Sheriff's Department in California, is a seasoned expert in leadership, holding a Bachelor's degree from the University of Oklahoma and an executive leadership certificate from Harvard University. Throughout his distinguished career, Robert has assumed various pivotal roles, including SWAT, academy drill sergeant, and commander of the Special Enforcement Bureau, overseeing critical operations such as the bomb squad and hostage negotiation team. His journey from a civilian employee to the helm of the 6th largest sheriff's department in the United States underscores his commitment to ethical leadership. With a strong emphasis on education, Robert's role as an adjunct professor at Brandman University and associate instructor at Santa Ana College reflects his dedication to imparting leadership principles and expertise in criminal law. His extensive experience and profound insights position him as an exemplary guest for discussions centered around courage, ethics, and effective decision-making in leadership.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - The Crucible of Adversity
00:02:17 - From Homelessness to Leadership
00:09:24 - Mentorship and Leadership Impact
00:12:20 - Career Progression and Leadership Development
00:15:22 - Homeland Security and Proactive Leadership
00:17:51 - Understanding Threat Levels for Homeland Security
00:20:40 - The Current State of Leadership
00:23:04 - Challenges for the Next Generation of Leaders
00:28:27 - Making a Difference in Life Journey
00:34:35 - Impact of Mentors in Leadership

Bio: Bob Peterson retired from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department after 33 years of service. He started his career as a civilian employee working in the basement of the Central Men’s Jail washing inmates ‘clothing. He graduated from the Sheriff’s Academy in 1989 and was promoted to the rank of sergeant in 2002. In 2009, he was promoted to the rank of lieutenant and was assigned to the Central Jail Complex. He would later become the bureau commander of the Central Jails Division. During his tenure as a lieutenant, he also worked in a variety of positions including the SAFE, and Special Enforcement Bureau (SEB) Commander overseeing SWAT, Hazardous Devices Squad (Bomb Squad), Air Support Unit, and Hostage Negotiations Team. In 2012, Bob was promoted to the rank of captain and was tasked with creating the department’s Community Programs and Services Division. Two years later, he transferred to the Training Division where he oversaw the department’s training programs.

In 2016, Bob was promoted to the rank of commander and became a member of the Sheriff’s Executive Team, responsible for overseeing the Professional Services Command. During this same year he decided to run for United States House of Representative in the 46th Congressional District. In 2017, he was promoted to the rank of assistant sheriff and oversaw Custody Operations.

In 2018, Bob transferred to the department’s Field Operations and Investigations Command where he is responsible for Homeland Security, Investigations, North, Southeast, and Southwest Operations, Coroner, Crime Lab, Emergency Management, Airport Operations, and the Reserve Bureau.

In 2019, he was promoted to Undersheriff where he was responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, the 6th largest sheriff’s Department in the United States.

Bob retired from the Sheriff’s Department on January 5, 2021.

Bob has a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Oklahoma. He also holds an Executive Leadership Certificate from Harvard University. He is a graduate of the F.B.I. National Academy, West Point Leadership Program, Notre Dame – Executive Integral Leadership Program, and the Senior Management Institute for Police.

He is an adjunct professor for Brandman University where he teaches leadership principles and is an associate instructor for Santa Ana College teaching criminal law. Bob and his wife of 32 years, Kristine moved out of California and built their dream home in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina where they currently live.

EPISODE 037: WENDY WELCH | LENOVO

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 21:14:31 +0000

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

In the world of technology, Wendy Welch's journey began with a hesitant step and an unforeseen detour. Like a plot twist in a captivating novel, her initial setback in a programming course seemed to cast a shadow over her aspirations. But little did she know that this apparent stumble would lead her to an extraordinary opportunity, igniting a passion she never knew she had
.
In this episode, you will be able to:

Gain insights into impactful leadership strategies and experiences.
Explore the transformative career journey of Wendy Welch.
Embrace the opportunities and challenges of technological change.
Unlock the power of mentorship in effective leadership.
Discover the significance of values alignment in the workplace.

My special guest is Wendy Welch

Wendy Welch is an executive at Lenovo, a multinational technology company and the world's fastest-growing PC manufacturer. With over 25 years of experience in the technology sector, Wendy has cultivated a remarkable background that continues to drive her passion and success in collaboration with organizations to foster innovation. As the Executive Director of US Public Sector, she leads the sales organization responsible for serving state, local, and federal government K-12 and higher education sectors. Wendy's exceptional contributions have garnered recognition in her industry, being named on CRN's Women of Channel and Power 100 Women of the Channel list multiple times. With her extensive experience and expertise, Wendy is a valuable resource for current and aspiring technology leaders looking to navigate and embrace the ever-changing landscape of technology. Her insights and journey in the technology sector make her a highly credible guest for this episode of the Leadership Crucible Podcast.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - Introduction

00:03:24 - Resonating with The Leadership Crucible

00:04:35 - How Wendy Got into Technology

00:09:18 - The Speed of Change in Technology

00:12:03 - Wendy's Crucible Experience

00:16:22 - The Importance of Transition and Growth

00:17:47 - Pushing Outside the Comfort Zone

00:20:18 - Challenges in the Workplace

00:23:14 - Access to Leadership Development

00:27:29 - Emerging Issues for Future Leaders

00:32:58 - Finding Your Board of Directors

00:33:47 - Having a Reality Mentor

00:35:05 - Taking Risks and Failing Fast

00:36:14 - Handling Mistakes and Accountability

EPISODE 036: ED MIRELES | AUTHOR & SPEAKER

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 18:56:58 +0000

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

Join us as former FBI agent Ed Mireles recounts the harrowing Miami firefight, a pivotal moment that changed the Bureau forever. Discover the power of teamwork, training, and high-stress decision-making in this gripping interview. But just when you think you know how it ends, a shocking twist leaves our protagonist in a dire situation, leaving you hungry for answers.

In this episode, you will be able to:

Enhance decision-making skills by exploring real-life leadership challenges in the Leadership Crucible Podcast.
Uncover the true history of the Miami firefight and FBI's pivotal role in this monumental event.
Discover the power of teamwork and training in high-stress situations and how it can make all the difference.
Explore the profound impact of pivotal moments and how they shape the course of history.
Learn about the importance of accountability and integrity in effective leadership and its influence on team success.

My special guest is Ed Mireles

In this episode of the Leadership Crucible Podcast, Chief Randy Bruegman welcomes a special guest, Ed Mireles Jr., to share his extraordinary journey as a former FBI agent. With a background that includes serving as a Marine security guard at various US embassies and being the primary undercover agent in numerous high-level investigations, Ed brings a wealth of experience and insights to the conversation. Notably, Ed's involvement in a historic gunfight that lasted just five minutes but forever changed the bureau showcases his exceptional resilience and decision-making skills in high-stress situations. With accolades such as the International Association Chiefs of Police National Police Officer of the Year Award and the FBI Medal of Valor, Ed's credibility as a leader and law enforcement professional is unquestionable. Join Chief Randy Bruegman and Ed Mireles Jr. as they delve into the impact of pivotal moments and how they shape leadership in critical incidents.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - Introduction

00:00:42 - Guest Introduction

00:03:11 - Childhood and Military Service

00:08:56 - Recruitment into the FBI

00:10:00 - Miami Firefight

00:15:40 - "The Shootout"

00:18:41 - "The Background of the Bank Robbers"

00:19:29 - "Writing the Book"

00:22:11 - "Accountability and Responsibility"

00:24:09 - "Advice for the Next Generation"

Bio:

Ed Mireles is a retired FBI Agent with 25 years of service. He served in WDC, three tours in Miami, Omaha, Tucson and two tours at the FBI Academy at Quantico. He worked in a variety of areas in Program Management, as a Supervisor, Classified Government Programs, General and Violent Crime Investigations, Organized Crime (OC) Investigations, Narcotics Investigations, Undercover Operations, Southwest Border Initiative, Crime Scene Investigations, Interviewing & Interrogation, Counter-Terrorism/ CT bombing investigations, Threat Assessment, Data Collection, Reporting of Criminal & Security Incidents, Firearms Training and Street Survival Training.

Mireles has over 15 years of undercover (UC) experience having worked scores of high-risk UC cases. He has been involved in two deadly force confrontations and has been wounded twice. He was selected as the 1986 National Police Officer of the Year; the recipient of the US Attorney General's Award for Exceptional Heroism and the FBI Medal of Valor. Mireles is a subject matter expert in general law enforcement matters and in police deadly force incidents. He served as a law enforcement professional for four years in Iraq where he assisted the DOD and DOS with Program Management, Classified Government Programs, Counter Insurgency (COIN) Counter-Terrorism (CT), Counter Improvised Explosives Device (CIED), Intelligence & Threat Analysis, Data Collection/Data Exploitation (Foreign Fighter Flow), External Relationships with Alliance Partners (NATO), Force Protection, Physical Security, Training and Mentoring Iraqi Police. Ed also did training and mentoring for one year in Mexico and one in Belize. He served for four years in the United States Marines between 1971 and 1975.

EPISODE 035: DAVE ANDERSON | ANDERSON LEADERSHIP SOLUTIONS

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 21:23:55 +0000

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

Leading with Character: How Moral Courage Shapes Effective Leadership with Dave Anderson

In the realm of leadership, there is an untold story that hides beneath the surface. It's a tale that weaves through the halls of West Point, the battlefields of Desert Storm, and the corporate boardrooms of the business world. It's the story of Dave Anderson, a man whose journey from army officer to leadership expert took an unexpected twist. A twist that revealed the transformative power of moral courage and character in ways he never could have imagined. Prepare to be captivated by this remarkable journey, as we delve into the depths of leadership and witness the incredible impact of a single thread left untied.
In this episode, you will be able to:

Enhance your leadership effectiveness by developing strong character traits.
Learn to demonstrate moral courage and lead with integrity in challenging situations.
Prepare yourself for the future by understanding the qualities that make the next generation of leaders successful.
Develop the skills necessary to lead yourself effectively before taking on the responsibility of leading others.
Explore the impact of character failures on leadership and discover strategies for preventing and overcoming them.

My special guest is Dave Anderson

Dave Anderson is a seasoned leader who brings a unique blend of military and corporate experience to the table. As a graduate of West Point and a decorated combat veteran, Dave's leadership skills were honed in high-pressure situations. He spent two decades in Fortune 50 companies, where he consistently excelled and earned the company's top sales leadership award multiple times. Dave is not only a successful leader but also a prolific writer, with an Amazon bestseller titled "Becoming a Leader of Character" and over a thousand articles on ethics, leadership, and the importance of character. He has worked with prestigious Fortune 500 companies, delivering impactful workshops and leading over 2000 first response personnel through his programs. Dave's unwavering focus on character-based leadership sets him apart, and his insights will undoubtedly inspire emerging leaders on the Leadership Crucible Podcast.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:02 - Introduction

00:01:17 - Dave Anderson's Background

00:02:34 - Deployment in Desert Storm

00:09:49 - Writing "Becoming a Leader of Character"

00:12:19 - Importance of Character in Leadership

00:17:34 - The Tests of Courage We Face

00:19:53 - The Importance of Character in Leadership

00:23:06 - The Lack of Moral Courage in Society

00:25:43 - Leaving a Legacy of Character

00:34:42 - The Importance of Exercising Leadership

00:35:46 - The Impact of Character and Influence

00:36:42 - The Thirst for Character and Leadership

00:36:55 - Overcoming Character Failures

00:38:36 - Becoming a Leader Worth Following

Bio:

Dave Anderson is a West Point graduate and a decorated combat veteran. He earned a Bronze Star during Operation Desert Storm. Dave spent 20 years in a global Fortune 50 company in various leadership positions. During this time, he earned his company’s highest sales leadership award 4 times in an 8 year period.

Author of the Amazon Best Seller – Becoming a Leader of Character , Dave has also written 1000+ articles which focus on ethics, leadership, and the value of character. In the last 12 months Dave has worked with Fortune 500 companies like Oracle and Bristol Meyers Squib. Since 2017, Dave has also personally led over 2000 first responder personnel from 100+ agencies through his Firefighters of Character and Officers of Character workshops. In the last 12 months he presented keynotes with the Texas, California, and Colorado Fire Chiefs Associations. He also spoke at the International Association of Fire Chief’s Fire Rescue International in 2023. Dave's #1 goal is for everyone to be able to confidently say "Yes!" to the question - "Would YOU follow YOU?"

EPISODE 034: DR. KRISTEN WILLEUMIER | BIOHACK YOUR BRAIN

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 17:48:50 +0000

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

My special guest is Dr. Kristen Willeumier

Dr. Kristen Willeumier is a renowned neuroscientist known for her expertise in neurobiology and neuroimaging. With a strong academic background, including degrees from Boston College and UCLA, she has dedicated her career to understanding the complexities of the brain and its impact on human health. Dr. Willeumier's research has focused on utilizing cutting-edge imaging technologies to unravel the neurobiology signatures underlying psychiatric disorders. Notably, she has led groundbreaking studies on the long-term effects of repetitive head impacts in the National Football League, shedding light on the importance of brain health in athletes. Her work extends beyond the sports arena as she actively investigates therapeutic approaches to rehabilitate brain function in military personnel and civilians with mild traumatic brain injuries. Dr. Willeumier's dedication to scientific advancement and her commitment to serving others make her a highly respected guest on the Leadership Crucible Podcast.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - Introduction
00:02:33 - Becoming a Neuroscientist
00:07:11 - Addressing Traumatic Brain Injuries
00:10:33 - Passion for Neurotrauma
00:12:08 - Personal Reflection and Service
00:17:51 - The Use of AI and Big Data in Medicine
00:20:27 - Shifting from Reactive to Predictive Medicine
00:24:18 - The Importance of Mental Health in the Workplace
00:27:35 - Supporting Mental Health in High-Stress Professions
00:29:52 - The ROI of Investing in Employee Health 00:35:39 - The Importance of Leadership Potential
00:36:10 - The Rewards of Service
00:36:52 - Service Over Self
00:37:49 - Following One's Passion
00:38:57 - Appreciation and Friendship

Bio:

Kristen Willeumier, Ph.D., conducted her graduate research in the laboratory of Neurophysiology at the University of California, Los Angeles and the laboratory of Neurogenetics at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. She received MS degrees in Physiological Science and Neurobiology and a Ph.D. degree in Neurobiology from the University of California, Los Angeles. She was a post-doctoral fellow in the Department of Neurology at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center where she continued her work in the field of neurodegenerative disease. She was the recipient of an NIH fellowship award from the National Institute of Mental Health and has presented her work internationally. She is the author of the book Biohack Your Brain: How to Boost Cognitive Health, Performance and Power.

EPISODE 033: SHERIFF MIKE CHITWOOD | VOLUSIA COUNTY, FLORIDA

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 19:15:32 +0000

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

Navigating the Challenges of Law Enforcement Leadership:
Insights from Sheriff Mike Chitwood

A second-generation law enforcement officer confronts the challenges of leadership, battles the fentanyl crisis, and strives to make a difference in a constantly scrutinized profession.
In this episode, you will be able to:

Enhance your leadership skills and strategies to effectively address challenges in law enforcement.
Stay ahead of the curve with insights on the impact of technology on policing and interpersonal skills.
Discover effective solutions for recruitment and retention issues faced by law enforcement agencies.
Learn innovative approaches to community engagement while addressing the fentanyl crisis.
Gain valuable insights on the importance of mentoring and support in developing future leaders in law enforcement.

My special guest is Sheriff Mike Chitwood
We are honored to have Sheriff Mike Chitwood join us as a guest on the Leadership Crucible Podcast. With an impressive career in law enforcement spanning over three decades, Sheriff Chitwood brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. Starting as a lieutenant in the Philadelphia Police Department, he excelled in various divisions, including Patrol, Tactical, Narcotics, and the Detective Division. Throughout his career, Sheriff Chitwood received 58 commendations for his valor, bravery, heroism, and merit. After serving as police chief in Shawnee, Oklahoma, and Daytona Beach, Florida, he was elected as the Volusia County Sheriff in 2016 and reelected without opposition in 2020. With his extensive training from the FBI National Academy and Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command, Sheriff Chitwood is a respected leader in the law enforcement community. Join us as we delve into his personal journey and gain valuable insights into his leadership approach in the face of challenges.
The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:00 - Introduction,

00:02:31 - Sheriff Chitwood's Experience in Philadelphia,

00:07:05 - Journey to Becoming a Police Chief,

00:09:56 - Taking Opportunities and Longevity,

00:11:06 - Current Challenges in Law Enforcement,

00:14:37 - The Impact of Substance Abuse on Communities,

00:15:12 - Challenges Facing Law Enforcement,

00:16:54 - Transparency and Community Relations,

00:21:00 - Leadership Lessons and Development,

00:24:06 - Leadership Void in Law Enforcement,

00:28:40 - The Grim Future of Technology and AI,

00:30:16 - The Importance of Interpersonal Skills,

00:32:26 - The Challenges of Work from Home and Hybrid Models,

00:34:53 - The Duty and Obligation of Younger Leaders,

00:35:58 - The Call to Lead and Bring Perspectives,

Bio:

Personal
• Born November 1963 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Second-generation law enforcement officer
• Three grown daughters, three grandchildren

Education
• Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Management, Eastern University of Pennsylvania (2005)
• Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice, NOVA Southeastern University (2008)

Employment
• Elected Sheriff of Volusia County in August 2016. Sworn in on Jan. 3, 2017. Re-elected without opposition in August 2020.
• Police Chief, Daytona Beach Police Department (May 30, 2006-November 11, 2016)
• Police Chief, Shawnee, Oklahoma (May 1, 2005-May 23, 2006)
• Philadelphia Police Department (November 1988-May 2005); worked in the patrol, tactical, narcotics and detective divisions; rose to the rank of Lieutenant and was the recipient of 58 official commendations for valor, bravery, heroism and merit Professional training
• Graduate of the Philadelphia Police Academy
• Graduate of the 204th session of the FBI National Academy, Quantico, VA (2001)
• Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command (1999)

Professional Involvement
• Board of Directors, Police Executive Research Forum
• Member of the International Association of Police Chiefs
• Member of the Volusia/Flagler Police Chiefs Association
• Adjunct professor, University of Central Florida

EPISODE 032: DR. KELVIN COCHRAN | ALLIANCE DEFENDING FREEDOM

Mon, 25 Sep 2023 16:41:10 +0000

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

In a world where adversity can often hinder progress, one man's journey defied all odds. Dr. Kelvin Cochran's story is a testament to the power of staying true to one's core values in leadership. From facing discrimination to becoming the fire chief of the very department that once held him back, Kelvin's resilience is awe-inspiring. But little did he know, his path would take an unexpected twist that would challenge his unwavering commitment to his values. The question remains: How did this unexpected turn shape Kelvin's leadership and inspire others to do the same? In this episode, you will be able to: Learn why maintaining a steadfast commitment to your core values is central to efficient leadership. Master the art of juggling personal demands and professional duties to attain long-lasting success. Realize the power of ongoing education and professional growth for superior leadership. Absorb how the dynamics of family relationships can tangibly impact leadership competence. Acknowledge the importance of mentoring and sturdy relationships in leadership progression. My special guest is Dr. Kelvin Cochran Known for his exceptional leadership and relentless integrity, Dr. Kelvin Cochran exemplifies the strength of core values in guiding one’s career. Having his humble beginnings in Shreveport, Kelvin dreamed of becoming a firefighter at a young age, setting a clear path for his future. He pursued academic excellence, acquiring degrees in Organizational Management, Industrial and Organizational Psychology. His tenacity saw him rise through the ranks to become the Fire Chief of the Shreveport Fire Department. Kelvin's extraordinary influence extends beyond his hometown with his appointment as the United States Fire Administrator by President Barack Obama in 2009.

The key moments in this episode are:
00:00:00 - Introduction,
00:02:34 - Childhood Challenges and Dreams,
00:08:27 - Overcoming Challenges in the Fire Service,
00:12:47 - Career Progression,
00:14:57 - Navigating Financial Challenges,
00:16:47 - Starting a New Journey in Atlanta,
00:19:09 - Facing Legal Issues,
00:25:30 - The Current State of Leadership,
00:28:37 - Emerging Issues for the Next Generation of Leaders,
00:32:19 - Following Your Passion,
00:35:39 - The importance of family relationships,
00:36:09 - Lifelong learning,
00:36:46 - Commitment to personal growth,
00:37:13 - Appreciation and gratitude,
00:38:27 - Future plans and aspirations,

Bio:

Shreveport, Louisiana native Kelvin J. Cochran, as a five-year-old boy, was spellbound
by Shreveport Firefighters fighting a fire across the street from his house and dreamed
that one day he would be a firefighter.

A proud student of Caddo Parish Public Schools, he graduated from Woodlawn High
School (1978); higher education includes: Wiley College (1999) Bachelor's Degree in
Organizational Management; Louisiana Tech University (2004) Master’s Degree in
Industrial and Organizational Psychology; Ohio Christian University (2016) Honorary
Doctorate in Christian Leadership; Creighton University (2018) Doctorate in
Interdisciplinary Leadership.

His employment with the Shreveport Fire Department began in 1981 as a firefighter. He
was then promoted to Fire Training Officer and served in this capacity from 1985 - 1990,
when he gained promotion to Assistant Chief Training Officer. His service in this position
concluded when he was appointed Fire Chief of the Shreveport Fire Department on
August 26, 1999. On January 2, 2008 he was appointed fire chief of the City of Atlanta
Fire Rescue Department. On August 17, 2009 he was appointed as the United States
Fire Administrator by President Barack Obama; June 19, 2010 he was re-appointed by
Mayor Kasim Reed as Fire Chief of the City of Atlanta Fire Rescue Department. He
served five (5) years as Chief Operating Officer of Elizabeth Baptist Church in Atlanta,
Georgia and currently serves as Senior Fellow; Vice President for Alliance Defending
Freedom.

He is married to Carolyn and the father of three children and has one granddaughter.

EPISODE 031: SYD KITSON | KITSON & PARTNERS

Mon, 11 Sep 2023 20:07:02 +0000

Unleashing the Power: Syd Kitson, the visionary force behind sustainable communities, challenges leaders to harness technology and innovation to create a resilient future despite the growing complexities of our world. In this episode, you will be able to: Learn how to foster leadership abilities and navigate personal growth. Uncover the essentials in building environmentally-friendly and sustainable communities. Find out the importance and advantages of education combined with technology in developing communities. Know effective resilience measures to combat natural calamities and climate change. Learn to encourage upcoming leaders and how to see failure as an opportunity for improvement. My special guest is Syd Kitson Our discussion today features Syd Kitson, the mind behind the largest single preservation agreement in the history of Florida. Syd is famed for his role as the Chairman and CEO of Kitson & Partners, a Florida-based real estate firm focused on building sustainable communities and commercial properties that respect the environment. Syd, an alumnus of Wake Forest University, brings his forward-thinking perspectives gleaned from illustrious leadership roles like Chair of the Florida Council of 100 and the Board of Governors for the State of University System of Florida.

The key moments in this episode are:

00:00:47 - Welcome Sid Kitson
00:02:11 - Sid Kitson's Journey and Influences,
00:08:30 - Finding Purpose and Passion,
00:12:51 - Building Babcock Ranch,
00:16:30 - Building a Sustainable Community,
00:18:53 - The Importance of Education,
00:21:04 - Prioritizing Health and Wellness,
00:23:28 - Building a Resilient Community,
00:25:13 - Overcoming Challenges,
00:33:16 - Making a Difference in Sustainability,
00:34:51 - Challenges for Future Leaders,
00:36:51 - Optimism for the Future,
00:38:19 - Embracing Failure and Setting Goals,

Syd's Bio: Syd Kitson is Chairman/CEO of Kitson & Partners, a Florida-based real estate company specializing in the creation and development of environmentally responsible, sustainable master-planned communities and commercial properties.

Kitson is a graduate of Wake Forest University, with a notable career in the National Football League. Upon retirement, he began his career in real estate, founding Kitson & Partners in 1999. In 2006, Kitson completed the historic purchase of Babcock Ranch in Southwest Florida, encompassing an area five times the size of the island of Manhattan, with over 80% of the original land purchase set aside in the largest single land preservation agreement in the state’s history.

Syd has served on multiple civic, education and non-profit boards. He is immediate past Chair of the Florida Council of 100, served as Chair of the Board of Governors for the State University System of Florida in 2020 and 2021, and was elected the 2016-2017 Chair of the Florida Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors.

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

EPISODE 030: DR. BRAD WILLIAMS | DALLAS COLLEGE

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 17:47:48 +0000

Do you want to become a more successful leader and drive organizational success? Are you searching for a solution that can help you achieve this desired outcome? Look no further, because today we have a guest who will share the key to unlocking improved leadership and organizational success through adaptability. This powerful trait is the secret ingredient that can transform your leadership style and drive your organization towards unprecedented levels of success. Get ready to discover the pathway to achieving remarkable results in your leadership journey.

In this episode, some key concepts will be:

Comprehend how balancing work and life propels you towards effective leadership.
Acquire the blueprint for building a workplace atmosphere marked by loyalty and a sense of belonging.
Understand the importance of adaptability in steering both leadership and organizational triumph.
Absorb the immense influence of technology on the future work landscape and the essentiality of digital skill-set.
Appreciate the significance of kindness and empathy in leadership and in cultivating a safe work environment.

My special guest is Brad Williams:

Dr. Williams earned his bachelor’s degree in communication, marketing and music and a master’s degree in human resource administration from East Central University in Ada, Oklahoma, and a Ph.D. in educational leadership and higher education from Oklahoma State University. Driven by a strong commitment to student success, employee excellence and community relevance, he values creativity and innovation, collaboration, and the integration of technology to enhance resources to provide students hope, help and a way forward.

Prior to OSU-OKC, Dr. Williams served as deputy director of strategic planning and initiative at the Oklahoma Department of Commerce. He also directed fundraising efforts at the Price Tower Arts Center in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, and at the University of Central Oklahoma. Dr. Williams worked as an ombudsman for the Chickasaw Nation Office of Community Advocacy and for its Division of Housing. He is a citizen of the Choctaw Nation.

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
To watch the video podcast on Youtube, click here.
To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.

EPISODE 029: MURALI KRISHNA, M.D. | AUTHOR OF VIBRANT: TO HEAL AND BE WHOLE

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 17:35:41 +0000

R. Murali Krishna, MD is the author of Vibrant: To Heal and Be Whole. Dr. Krishna also serves on many professional and civic organizations’ boards and committees. He currently serves as president of the Oklahoma State Board of Heath and founding president/president emeritus of the Health Alliance for the Uninsured (HAU). He is a Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences; Dr. Krishna is committed to improving the health of the people in our communities.

Dr. Krishna is a motivating and engaging speaker on mental health and mind, body, spirit medicine topics and is often interviewed by television and print news organizations for his expert opinion on mental and emotional health issues.

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
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EPISODE 028: PAUL DARLEY | W.S. DARLEY & CO.

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 15:59:32 +0000

Paul C. Darley is Chairman, CEO & President of W.S. Darley & Co. In 1997, he became President and COO and was appointed CEO in 2003. He was named Chairman in 2011. Under his leadership, sales have increased over 5000% to over $625 million in 2021. He began in pump sales in 1985 and was named Vice President for the Fire Pump Division of Darley in 1990.

Founded in 1908, W.S. Darley & Co is a fourth-generation family business, led by Paul and an executive team that has transformed this 114-year-old company into a world leader in the firefighting and defense industries.

Paul is a graduate of St. Ignatius College Prep in Chicago and he holds a BS Degree in Marketing and Finance from Marquette University. He earned his MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, where is a guest lecturer and an executive-in-residence. Paul has traveled to 80 countries in his 37-year tenor and has made over 500 industry speaking engagements. He is involved with numerous charitable, business and service organizations. He is a former Chairman of the Chicago Windy City Chapter of Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO) and is a trustee for Dominican University.

He is a Past President of the Fire Apparatus Manufacturers Association (FAMA) and he also served on the Board of Directors of Fire & Emergency Manufacturers & Services Association (FEMSA). Paul Darley currently serves on the Board of the National Defense Industry Association (NDIA) for the Great Lakes Chapter.

He is the author of the book Sold! The Art of Relationship Sales. The book highlights emotional intelligence and authentic leadership to sell more, work your way up the corporate ladder…and what to do once you get there.

Paul is married to his high school sweetheart for 36 years and together they raised three daughters in Elmhurst, IL.

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
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EPISODE 027: BLAKE WADE | NACEA

Mon, 17 Jul 2023 17:40:21 +0000

J. Blake Wade was appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of the Native American Cultural and Educational Authority (NACEA) on December 1, 2011. The NACEA is the state agency responsible for building and developing The American Indian Cultural Center and Museum. Prior to assuming the NACEA appointment, Wade was President of Oklahoma’s Business Roundtable, Oklahoma’s primary economic development “support” organization. The Roundtable accomplishes this by providing critical private funding in support of the economic development efforts of the Governor, Lt. Governor, and the Oklahoma Department of Commerce. Wade served as the executive director of the Oklahoma Historical Society from 1990-1999, and the Director of the Oklahoma Capitol Complex and Centennial Commemoration Commission beginning August 1, 1999. He was responsible for overseeing preparations for Oklahoma’s centennial commemoration of statehood in 2007.

The first three years as Director of the Centennial, the focus was the State Capitol Dome and the Centennial Plaza of the Oklahomans. These projects were completed in 2002. Then the planning began to implement a Centennial Commemoration that recognized the spirit of Oklahoma’s people, encouraged pride in the state, and instilled confidence in Oklahoma’s future. The vision was to offer a commemoration that encouraged Oklahomans to examine its unique history, experience our rich heritage, explore our promising future, and ensure a listing legacy for future generations.

While a Major, U.S. Army, he received two Bronze Stars, three Vietnam Service Medals and the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry. A Lawton native, Wade graduated from the University of Oklahoma with a BA in journalism, and a graduate of the Command and General Staff College.

Wade participates actively in community organizations serving on the board of directors for the State Fair, the Campaign for Arcadia Trails Treatment Center that opened in May 2019, Boy Scouts of America, First Step and Metro Alliance, Director of USS Oklahoma Memorial at Pearl Harbor, Friends of the Governor’s Mansion, the Jim Thorpe Association and Hall of Fame, Metro Alliance, and Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum. He is the recipient of the 2008 Administrator of the Year Award and received an “Emmy” Award for the production of the Oklahoma Centennial’s “Spectacular.” (Ford Center, November 16, 2007) J. Blake Wade presently serves as the Executive Director of the Native American Cultural and Education Authority from 2012 to present.

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
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EPISODE 026: KIRK ARTHUR | MICROSOFT

Mon, 03 Jul 2023 13:59:17 +0000

Kirk Arthur is the leader of Worldwide Public Safety and Justice for Microsoft, with responsibility over experts that serve the public safety & justice communities. He has over 18 years of experience as a federal and municipal law enforcement official in the United States. In this role, Kirk is responsible for all aspects of the business, including the development and adoption of Microsoft technology solutions in public safety and justice that enable positive and productive outcomes of mission requirements. He is passionate about the safety and security of citizens in the global community, as well as working with customers around the world to achieve their mission goals using Microsoft’s technology.

Prior to coming to Microsoft, he was a Supervisory Special Agent for the U.S. Secret Service managing the San Francisco Electronic Crimes Task Force and Asset Forfeiture Squads. In this capacity, he was responsible for overseeing global investigations involving network intrusions, data breaches, theft of intellectual property, and other digital and financial threats against the United States’ critical infrastructure. He was also responsible for conducting community outreach initiatives on behalf of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, of which the U.S. Secret Service reports under, to the private and public sector communities regarding current and emerging cyber security threats and responses to these threats. Kirk’s career with the U.S. Secret Service spanned over fifteen (15) years where he held positions as a criminal investigator in the field, within headquarters, and on the Presidential Protective Division during the Bush and Obama Administrations.

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
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EPISODE 025: MARY CAMELI | MESA FIRE

Thu, 22 Jun 2023 15:48:34 +0000

Mary Cameli is the fire chief for the Mesa (Arizona) Fire and Medical Department, a Commission of Fire Accreditation International accredited agency. She joined the department in 1983 and has risen through all of the ranks, including serving 11 years as Assistant Chief prior to being selected as Chief in 2016. She is the past president of the Arizona Fire Chiefs Association (AFCA) and currently serves a Section Chair as the Metro representative for the Arizona Fire Chiefs Association, and Vice Chair of the International Fire Service Training Association Board. She is active in her community as Vice Chair of the Community Bridges Board, past Chair of the Child Crisis Arizona Board, and past President of the Mesa Sunrise Rotary. Chief Cameli holds a master’s degree in Organizational Management from the University of Phoenix and a bachelor’s degree in Elementary and Physical Education from Southern Utah University. She received her credential as a Chief Fire Officer in 2018 and a Certified Public Manager certification from Arizona State University in 2011.

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
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EPISODE 024: TODD MOSHER | BLUE ORIGIN

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 00:08:57 +0000

Dr Mosher is the Blue Origin Director of Customer Experience for Orbital Reef, a commercial space station to replace the International Space Station later this decade. He was previously a Senior Manager at Amazon leading the Project Kuiper Technical Program Management team. Project Kuiper is one of the more ambitious commercial programs consisting of a constellation of 3,236 satellites to provide low-latency high-speed broadband connectivity around the world. Before that Dr. Mosher also worked on Project Santa to restore Amazon’s global fulfillment network capacity during the pandemic. Dr. Mosher has 32 years of experience working in industry and serving as a faculty member at three universities (Utah State University, University of California at Los Angeles, and the International Space University). He has directed the design of both human spaceflight and robotic spacecraft projects (Tyvak, SNC and Lockheed Martin). He has provided technical authority and successful execution from end-to-end of the product lifecycle, including manufacturing and launch. Entrepreneurial, he has helped two small companies (Microsat Systems and Syncroness) exit to acquisition and contributed to a third going public (Tyvak). He led and wrote successful proposals resulting in opportunities valued at over $5B from defense, civil, and commercial space customers. Other past employers include The Aerospace Corporation and General Dynamics. Dr. Mosher has a Ph.D. and M.S. in aerospace engineering from the University of Colorado, an M.S. in systems engineering from the University of Alabama in Huntsville, and a B.S. in aerospace engineering from San Diego State University.

He is a National Academies recognized expert serving on seven different panels including presenting results of a review of NASA’s technology portfolio to high-ranking government officials at NASA, Congress, and the Executive Branch. He serves on the Board of Trustees for the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, where he is also an Associate Fellow.

Since relocating to Washington from his home in Colorado, Dr. Mosher has started serving as the Chairman of the State of Washington Joint Center for Aerospace Technology Innovation (JCATI) Board and at The Museum of Flight as a member of the Spaceflight Committee. He was also a past Mentor for two companies in the Techstars Starburst Aerospace Accelerator program. He is an Alumni Guide for the Sigma Chi Horizons Leadership Program from 2009 to the present. When he lived in Colorado, he served on The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society Rocky Mountain Chapter Board of Trustees and helped raise over $200,000 to help support blood cancer research and patients. He is a 2016 graduate of the Denver Chamber of Commerce Leadership Denver program. From 2013-2018, Dr. Mosher served on the University Alumni Association Board serving two different leadership positions as Chair of Student to Young Alumni Transitions Committee (2016-2018) and Vice Chair Business Development Committee (2014-2015). He was the 2012 University of Colorado Kalpana Chawla Outstanding Recent Alumni Award Winner.

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
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EPISODE 023: RUDY JACKSON | UW HEATH

Mon, 22 May 2023 16:55:38 +0000

Rudy Jackson serves as the Chief Nurse Executive of UW Health. He is an experienced healthcare leader with broad knowledge in large integrated academic health systems and a successful history of improving nursing outcomes and engagement as well as hospital operational performance.

Rudy previously served as Chief Nursing Officer for Buffalo General Hospital and Gates Vascular Institute in Buffalo, New York, the largest healthcare system in Western New York. He has previously served in leadership roles at University Hospital in San Antonio, Texas along with over 20 years of US Army experience.

Rudy earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing from The University of The Incarnate Word in San Antonio, Texas, his master’s degree in Healthcare Administration from Webster University in St. Louis, Missouri, and his doctoral degree of Nursing Practice from Yale, New Haven, Connecticut. He is also certified in Executive Nursing Practice from the Association of Nurse Leaders.

For more resources, visit: theleadershipcruciblefoundation.org
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EPISODE 022: STEVE WEINSTEIN | BERMUDA INSTITUTE OF OCEAN SCIENCES

Fri, 30 Dec 2022 21:06:47 +0000

Stephen is a financial services and insurance executive and attorney with an extensive background in innovation, strategy, governance, and transactions. He currently serves as the Chair of the Bermuda Business Development Agency, a public-private partnership between the Bermuda Government and the private sector helping lead Bermuda’s engagement on, among other things, digital assets, fintech, insuretech and climate finance economic development. From 2002 until 2021 he served as Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer of RenaissanceRe Holdings Ltd. (RNR: NYSE). During his time with RenaissanceRe, Stephen served as served as a member of firm’s Executive Committee, and as Chair of the RenaissanceRe Risk Sciences Foundation, the company’s charitable vehicle committed to researching and developing risk-mitigation techniques and raising awareness through conferences and outreach events, including the award-winning Risk Mitigation Leadership Forum series. Prior to RenaissanceRe, Stephen worked for Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP, a leading international law firm.

Stephen serves on the boards of several industry and charitable groups including the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences (BIOS), an independent U.S. non-profit scientific research and educational organization which he serves as Chair, and the R Street Institute, a leading US non partisan policy organization. He also serves on the President’s Advisory Counsel for the National Wildlife Federation, America’s largest non-profit conservation organization, and is a member of Bermuda’s COVID-19 Economic Advisory Committee. He previously served as Chair of the Reinsurance Association of American Extreme Events Committee, and Chair of the Policy Committee of the Association of Bermuda Insurers and Reinsurers. Stephen is a graduate of Columbia College, NY, and Harvard Law School. He is a frequent speaker on insurance industry, financial sector, climate and resiliency, and governance issues.

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EPISODE 021: RUSSELL JACKSON | KID ONE TRANSPORT

Fri, 23 Dec 2022 16:38:04 +0000

Russell A. Jackson, born in Birmingham, Alabama, is a proven nonprofit leader and innovator with a sound history of developing and implementing new nonprofit programs and community initiatives. His life journey began as a firefighter for the City of Hoover in Alabama. In 1992, a tragic medical call and death of a two-year old boy would redirect Russell’s career path. Shortly after, he founded Kid One Transport, a nonprofit medical transportation program that became a national model and to-date has served more than 50,000 children and expectant mothers via a partnership with Mercedes-Benz U.S. International.

Russell has been responsible for the formation of dozens of startup nonprofit organizations, programs, and initiatives across the nation. Because of his due diligence in developing the concepts, 81% of these organizations and programs continue today, and are raising millions of dollars annually to continue their important missions.

Russell is an accomplished professional in the areas of Nonprofit Startup, Leadership, Operations, Board Governance, Strategic Planning, Grant Writing, Major Gifts, Annual Campaigns, Special Events, Donor Relations, Public Relations, and Cause-Related Marketing. He has a strong acumen in financial, policy, operations, and regulatory oversight. His strong leadership skills to build, strengthen and champion a team to exceed its goals has earned him several nonprofit leadership awards from state, local and national groups. Russell’s ability to effectively educate, inspire and engage the public even caught the attention of the International Association of Business Communicators who presented him with their highest award: Communicator of the Year.

He has received more than 200 community and national awards, with the more notable ones being named CNN HERO, Tiger Woods Foundation Hero, Johnson and Johnson Healthcare Hero, Costco’s National Making a Difference recipient and the Mercedes-Benz Drive for Excellence award. However, his most cherished award was being named one of AOL’s Amazing Dads of 2008, because family means more to Russell than anything else.

Russell has been the keynote speaker and trainer at more than 250 conferences and/or events, and has served on numerous national committees and nonprofit boards. His ongoing commitment to nonprofit excellence and proven record have made him one of the most sought-after nonprofit specialists in the nation.

Russell has been married to his incredible wife and best friend for 24 years, Mary, and has two amazing children – Harrison Parker and Mackenzie Grace, along with three absolutely rotten pets: Byron, Bernie, and Bailey.

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EPISODE 020: MIKE HOWARD | THE ART OF RONIN LEADERSHIP

Thu, 15 Dec 2022 21:25:28 +0000

Mike Howard, Former Chief Security Officer (CSO) for Microsoft Corporation, held global responsibility for vital security functions including; operations, investigations, risk mitigation, crisis management, executive protection, security technology, strategy, intelligence, and employee awareness. Mike was the CSO of Microsoft for 16 years.

Mike led the development of Microsoft’s interconnected Global Security Operations Centers (GSOCs), which oversee Global Security monitoring and response, and have become well known in the security field as a leading model for conducting operations globally.

Mike spent 22 years with the Central Intelligence Agency, finishing as a Chief of Station. Mike also worked in the CIA’s Office of Security and served on the security staff of the Director of Central Intelligence.

He worked in the Counterterrorism Center, ran global programs, and served in assignments around the world. He was executive officer for the Office of Military Affairs and a special investigator for the Office of Inspector General.

Mike also served as a law enforcement officer with the Oakland, California, police in the late 1970s. He holds a BS in criminal justice administration from San Jose State University with a minor in Sociology.

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EPISODE 019: JOHN GOOD & DON LOMBARDI | DW DRUMS

Fri, 09 Dec 2022 22:16:03 +0000

Don Lombardi is the founder of DW Drums and Drum Channel. Don is also a dedicated educator and inventor with more than 30 patents registered to his name. Don's mission is to improve the quality of a drummer’s life through education and by making quality products. Don was inducted into Guitar Center's Rock Walk on Sunset Blvd. in 2018 and was most recently honored with the Percussive Arts Society President’s Industry Award for 2020.

In the early 70’s Seeing an ad for Drum Workshop in the Yellow Pages, John Good, now DW's Vice President, signed up for lessons at age 17 to improve his drumming and reverse what he refers to as "bad drumming habits."

"After three months of lessons, Don approached John and said, "You know, I've had lots of successful students. I don't think you're going to be one of them"; John says laughing. "So I said, "Great…now what."

Realizing that overhead was eating up his profits, Don brought in investors and additional teachers and began selling sticks, books, and drums to help subsidize the expenses. Hiring John as a part-time sales manager, the two spent hours discussing different ways to improve the art of drumming through improving drum products.

"That's how the spark and enthusiasm got started," John recalls. "We would talk for hours about our ideas for creating better products. Before we knew it, we were working together."

Out of these brainstorms came the first DW product: Don's new design for a height-adjustable trap-case seat. Selling about a dozen seats a month, John quit his day job and went to work full- time for Don.

"After teaching all day, we would move the drum sets to the side and bring out the tables to make the seats," Don remembers. "Then I'd usually leave for my playing job, and John would stay into the night to build the seats and fill the orders. I even bought a sewing machine to sew on the top of the seats, but John put his foot down and said, "No sewing: I don't do sew”.

In 2022 Don and John Good were presented with NAMM’s Milestone Award for 50 years of excellent service in the music products industry. At Drum Workshop, The Drummer's Choice® is more than a slogan, it's a fact. After more than thirty years of innovation and tireless dedication to improving the way drum products are made, DW drums, pedals and hardware are the standard by which all others are measured. To get here, it takes more than a working knowledge of the instrument or a few good ideas; it takes a true passion for designing and manufacturing the absolute best.

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EPISODE 018: TONY JENKINS | FLORIDA BLUE

Fri, 02 Dec 2022 20:20:01 +0000

Tony Jenkins is the Market President for the Central Florida region where he provides strategic oversight and leads a team in developing business plans to increase and retain membership, enhance brand visibility, and coordinate employee engagement.

Tony was instrumental in establishing Florida Blue’s diversity efforts in 2001. Prior to joining Florida Blue, Jenkins served as Director of Diversity for CSX Corporation, the largest rail network in the eastern United States, and he spent 18 years with the Walt Disney World Company in various leadership roles, specializing in Hospitality Management and Human Resources.

Under Tony’s leadership in Central Florida, Florida Blue has been recognized as a Best Place to Work, an Outstanding Diverse Organization and a Corporate Philanthropy honoree. Tony is an advocate for several causes throughout the Orlando Community. He is the past Chair for United Arts of Central Florida and The Florida Commission on Human Relations. He currently serves on the board of Florida Citrus Sports, and he is a Board Trustee at Stetson University. Tony is Chair Elect for the Orlando Economic Partnership board, where he also serves as Chair for their DEI Task Force, engaging Orlando’s business leaders across varied industries.

Tony has been recognized by the Orlando Business Journal as one of Central Florida's Top 10 Businessmen to Watch and as CEO of the Year. Most recently, he received the publication’s Diversity in Business Lifetime Achievement Award. He is also an i4 Business Magazine Business Leader of the Year recipient. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Hospitality Management from Morris Brown College in Atlanta, Ga.

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EPISODE 017: BRUNO SERATO | CATARINA'S KITCHEN

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 05:27:38 +0000

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Bio:

Bruno Serato arrived in the U.S. from his native Italy speaking no English with only $200 in his pocket. Through hard work and determination, he worked his way up from busboy to owner of the critically acclaimed Anaheim White House restaurant, But it’s his work with children that has earned him an international reputation. Bruno launched a nonprofit in 2005 after he and his mother, Caterina, visited a local Boys and Girls Club. There, they saw a 7-year-old boy eating a bag of potato chips and when she learned that the snack was all he had for dinner, she instructed her son to head back to the restaurant and feed the children pasta. What started with 1 meal has turned into now feeding some 5,000 children daily, more than 3 million meals have been served, and the need keeps growing. Caterina’s Club is currently serving 90 sites in 30 cities.

He has extended his mission by moving “motel families” into permanent housing. While many of the families are working and able to pay the monthly rent for their own apartments, they cannot afford the first, last and security deposit required at the onset. He has already helped over 220 families escape motel living by finding them apartments of their own and their lives have improved considerably.

For his humanitarian work, Bruno has earned local, national, and international publicity including profiles in major media outlets throughout the world. His many honors include CNN Hero, knighted by the Italian government, knighted by the Royal House of Savoy, Ellis Island Medal of Honor recipient, papal blessing from Pope Francis, humanitarian award on the steps of the U.S. Capitol, Anaheim Key to the City, and has received hundreds of proclamations and awards all over the world.

EPISODE 016: KIM ANTHONY | UNFAVORABLE ODDS

Fri, 18 Nov 2022 16:18:57 +0000

Kim specializes in the area of Identity Attunement. She has a passion to help others to reclaim their authentic selves, embrace their unique attributes, and walk in the fullness of who they were created to be as leaders in the workplace, at home, and in everyday life.

While with Athletes in Action's Pro Ministries Staff, Kim worked with wives of NFL players, head coaches, and executives for 20 years, serving as Chaplain for the Miami Dolphins wives for 10 years and holding various leadership positions at Athletes in Action’s international headquarters. As an AIA affiliate, she is continuing to have an ongoing impact in the world of sports.

Kim’s mission includes aiding women of all backgrounds in overcoming past pain, working through issues of self-worth, and fulfilling their purpose. With this mission in mind, in 2018, Kim launched Athletes in Action’s All-Star Moms Outreach. This community-focused event took place in conjunction with the All-Star Breakfast hosted by Athletes in Action and the NBA Retired Players Association during the NBA All-Star Weekends in Los Angeles, Charlotte, and Chicago. Through these outreaches she was able to celebrate close to 150 single moms and connect them with local organizations who could provide ongoing resources and support.

Kim’s message is not only impacting women. Through her speaking at corporate events, universities, AIA’s Pro Leadership Summits, and NFL Team Chapels, her message is impacting men as well. Kim Anthony has worked as a sports reporter for ESPN and hosted three television shows in Miami, Florida. She has appeared as a guest on TV and radio programs like, Focus on the Family (A 2012 Best of the Best broadcast), Family Life Today, 700 Club, 100 Huntley Street, and Full Circle.

Kim has written an inspiring story detailing her journey from pain to purpose, in her memoir, Unfavorable Odds. In it, she shares how she overcame growing up in an environment surrounded by drugs, violence and financial hardships and went on to become a member of the US National Gymnastics Team and the first African-American female to receive a scholarship to compete for UCLA gymnastics.

There, she became a 6-time All-American and 4-time National Champion. Kim was inducted into the UCLA Hall of Fame in 2000, the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame in 2017 and was listed as one of the legends making up the Pac-12 All-Century Gymnastics Team in 2016. Unfavorable Odds is a book that crosses social, economic and cultural barriers. It feeds the soul of the reader with inspiration to persevere and courage to overcome.

Kim Anthony has two adult children and currently resides in Southwest, Ohio with Corwin, her husband of 29 years.

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EPISODE 015: LANDRY MERKISON | CLAYTON COUNTY FIRE CHIEF | PART 2

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 20:26:15 +0000

This is Part 2 of our interview with Chief Merkison. If you haven't done so already, be sure to listen to Part 1 first.

Chief Merkison was born and raised in Clayton County where his family has made their home for over 50 years. After graduating from North Clayton High School, Chief Merkison attended and graduated from Griffin Technical Institute where he majored in Architectural and Engineering Drafting. He furthered his education at Columbia Southern University, where he graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s Degree in Fire Administration and a Master’s Degree in Business.

Chief Merkison began his firefighting career as a volunteer with the City of Jonesboro in 1992. In 1993, he was hired by the City of Riverdale and In March of 1996, he began his career with Clayton County Fire & Emergency Services. He was promoted through the ranks serving as a Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Captain within the Fire Marshal’s Office and in 2008 was promoted to Battalion Chief and charged with creating the Technical Services Division. From 2010 through 2013, he served as a member of the Fire Chief’s Executive Staff as the Assistant Fire Chief and Deputy Director of Emergency Management and Homeland Security. On November 5, 2013, he was appointed the sixth Fire Chief of Clayton County Fire & Emergency Services where he also serves as the EMS Director and Director of Emergency Management. In January of 2021, Chief Merkison was appointed to head the new Office of Resilience and Sustainability.

In addition to his roles within the department, Chief Merkison serves as Chairman of the Clayton County Citizens Corps Council and as a member of the Region III EMS Council. In October of 2014, the Board of Commissioners appointed him to serve on the Board of Directors for Southern Regional Medical Center and in 2020 Governor Brian Kemp appointed him to serve on the Georgia Firefighter Standards and Training Council.

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EPISODE 014: LANDRY MERKISON | CLAYTON COUNTY FIRE CHIEF | PART 1

Fri, 04 Nov 2022 16:56:01 +0000

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EPISODE 013: MULENGA CHELLA | CHRIST LIFE CHURCH ZAMBIA

Sat, 29 Oct 2022 17:27:19 +0000

Dr. Mulenga Chella is the founding pastor of Christ Life Church, was born in Zambia, Africa. After completing high school, he was called to serve God in ministry. Since then, Mulenga has served in hospital ministry, street kids’ ministry, youth ministry, and as lead pastor. In 2002-2003 he pastored his first church called Bread of Life Church Luanshya, after that, he pastured Bread of Life Church Chankute (’03-’04) and later on Bread of Life Church Mpatamato (’05, ’09-‘13).

Mulenga earned his Theology Diploma from Northrise University Zambia in 2005. In 2006 Mulenga was wrongly imprisoned in Tanzania and spent two years awaiting trial for a crime he did not commit and of which he was subsequently acquitted. This resulted in a spiritually formative time that God used to teach and humble Mulenga for fruitful ministry. He then returned to Northrise University Zambia and earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Theology in 2010 - 2012. In May 2016 Mulenga graduated from Baylor University with a Masters in Divinity. He earned his Doctorate of Ministry at Baylor University’s George W. Truett Theological Seminary (April 2020).

Mulenga served as Pastor for Littleville Baptist Church in Hamilton, Texas (2014-2016); Adamsville Presbyterian Church in Adamsville, Texas (2015 -2016); and Cornerstone Christian Church, Chandler, Arizona (June 2016 –January 2017). Mulenga is married to Hellen, and they have a son named Joseph and a daughter named Lisa. They returned back to Zambia from the USA in March 2017 and officially started Christ Life Church in April 2018.
For more information on Mulenga's Ministry, visit: https://christlifechurchzambia.com/

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EPISODE 012: NATHAN SHELDON | CASADY SCHOOL

Sat, 22 Oct 2022 16:28:00 +0000

Nathan Sheldon was born in Rio-de-Janeiro, Brazil. His parents, linguistic missionaries, moved Nathan to the heart of the Amazon Jungle to live with an indigenous group called the Mura Piraha. At about eleven, the family moved out of the jungle to Brazil's capital, Brasilia. Nathan would live in Brasilia until his senior year of high school when the family moved to the U.S., where Nathan would graduate high school.

He attended John Brown University in Siloam Springs, AR, where he played soccer and tennis, and was very involved in Student Government and served as treasurer his senior year in college, graduating in 1989. He started Graduate School at the University of Oklahoma, where he graduated with a Masters in Accounting – Tax emphasis. He married his college sweetheart Staci in the Fall of 1990. They have two grown children, Sarah, and Steven. Nathan started his career in Accounting, working with Deloitte & Touche in the tax department. He transitioned to the Finance side of accounting and served as controller for Candid Color and then as the wholesale controller for the largest whole food distributor in the country, Fleming.

He is finishing his 19th year at the premier Independent School in Oklahoma City, first as the Director of Operations, and for the last eight years, as the Head of School at Casady School. Casady School is an Independent day school with approximately 990 boys and girls in grades pre-k through 12th grade.

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EPISODE 011: ROEE MADAI | PERSYS MEDICAL

Sat, 15 Oct 2022 17:54:38 +0000

Roee Madai is an accomplished CEO with a proven global track record in developing and executing strategic long-term initiatives in the medical device field. Successfully led global corporate expansion through procurement of new technologies, acquisition of MAS Med Global, sales in new markets and segments, as well as the expansion of manufacturing facilities while adopting the highest quality standards. He has been the CEO if PerSys Medical for the past 8 years, and CEO of First Care Products a group of companies with 150 employees who develop, manufacture and market leading trauma pre-hospital devices for hospitals, EMS, and military markets. He also served as Consul for Economic Affairs for the Government of Israel -Ministry of Finance -Economic Mission to the U.S. and as an Advisor to the Minister of Economy and Industry in Israel. He holds a Master’s Degree in Economics and International Relations and a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration.

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EPISODE 010: JIM JOHNSON | PIERCE MANUFACTURING

Fri, 07 Oct 2022 15:34:49 +0000

Jim Johnson is Executive Vice President of Oshkosh Corporation and President, Fire & Emergency. He is responsible for the overall operations of Oshkosh’s Fire & Emergency business segment, consisting of the Pierce®, Oshkosh® Airport Products and Frontline™ brands.He joined Oshkosh Corporation in 2007, after holding positions in sales and marketing in the recreational vehicle industry. He is an attorney who spent several years practicing law in Indianapolis, Indiana focusing on commercial litigation.He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business from Indiana University, Bloomington and a Juris Doctorate degree from Indiana University, Indianapolis.
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EPISODE 009: MARSHALL LEVIN | NoWAY ENTERTAINMENT | PART 2

Fri, 30 Sep 2022 16:42:31 +0000
This is Part 2 of our interview with Marshall. If you haven't yet done so, we recommend listening to Part 1 first.
Marshall Levin’s professional reputation spans the globe and includes senior positions in both the profit and non-profit sector. Mr. Levin is an honors graduate of Swarthmore College. He holds a Masters of Social Service from Bryn Mawr Graduate School of Social Work and Social Research.
He was the Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer of the American Committee for the Weizmann Institute of Science, where upon his departure, they created an educational endowment fund in his name.
A Senior Associate National Director and Director of National Development for the Anti-Defamation League, Mr. Levin served as Executive Director of Financial Resource Development for UJA-Federation of New York; Executive Director of Community Planning & Allocations for The Associated: Jewish Community Federation of Baltimore; Supervisor of Northern Israel in charge of Crisis Intervention for the Ministry of Social Welfare; Lecturer at the Haifa University School of Social Work; and Executive Director of synagogues in the Conservative and Reform movements.
Marshall was also a professional athlete.
To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.
To watch the Video Podcast on Youtube, click here.

EPISODE 008: MARSHALL LEVIN | NoWAY ENTERTAINMENT | PART 1

Fri, 23 Sep 2022 15:43:23 +0000
Marshall Levin’s professional reputation spans the globe and includes senior positions in both the profit and non-profit sector. Mr. Levin is an honors graduate of Swarthmore College. He holds a Masters of Social Service from Bryn Mawr Graduate School of Social Work and Social Research.
He was the Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer of the American Committee for the Weizmann Institute of Science, where upon his departure, they created an educational endowment fund in his name.
A Senior Associate National Director and Director of National Development for the Anti-Defamation League, Mr. Levin served as Executive Director of Financial Resource Development for UJA-Federation of New York; Executive Director of Community Planning & Allocations for The Associated: Jewish Community Federation of Baltimore; Supervisor of Northern Israel in charge of Crisis Intervention for the Ministry of Social Welfare; Lecturer at the Haifa University School of Social Work; and Executive Director of synagogues in the Conservative and Reform movements.
Marshall was also a professional athlete.
To download the Team Discussion Guide, click here.
To watch the Video Podcast on Youtube, click here.

EPISODE 007: GORDON GRAHAM | LEXIPOL

Fri, 16 Sep 2022 15:10:00 +0000
Gordon Graham has been actively involved in law enforcement since 1973. He is an Attorney, consultant, lecturer, and author focusing on organizational and operational risk management issues. He has developed training systems and programs used by both private and public sector organizations around the world. His training program, “Six Minutes for Safety” has been adopted by Fire Departments around North America, and by all Federal Fire Fighting Agencies and has been credited with reducing wildland firefighter injuries and deaths. His innovative safety system “Non Punitive Close Call Reporting” is receiving international acclaim from firefighter organizations, and was the genesis for the firefighternearmiss.com safety website.
In 2005, Gordon received the prestigious Presidential Award from the International Association of Fire Chiefs for his lifelong work in improving firefighter safety and performance. In 2015 he received the lifetime dedication award from the International Public Safety Leadership and Ethics Institute. In 2018 he received the James Oberstar Sentinel for Safety Award for his lifetime work in improving aviation safety internationally. In 2019 he received the Howard W. Rayon Distinguished Service Award. Gordon is the Co-Founder of Lexipol, a company designed to standardize policy, procedure and training within public safety agencies around America.
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EPISODE 006: JACK RIVES | THE AMERICAN BAR ASSOCIATION

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 07:09:12 +0000
Jack L. Rives received both his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and law school degrees from the University of Georgia.
Following graduation from law school, he began a 33-year career in the United States Air Force as a military attorney, or judge advocate (JAG). He served as The Judge Advocate General of the United States Air Force, the senior U.S. Air Force attorney, and he was the first military attorney to attain the three-star rank of lieutenant general. Jack led some 4,600 legal professionals worldwide, including 2,600 active duty, reserve component, and civilian lawyers. Among his many military awards and decorations are the Distinguished Service Medal with oak leaf cluster and the Defense Superior Service Medal.
On Law Day (May 1), 2010, Jack began his service as the Executive Director of the American Bar Association. He has overall management responsibility for staff operations at the Association’s headquarters in Chicago, at its Washington, DC office, and at program sites in California, Texas, and several dozen countries throughout the world.
Jack oversees a staff of more than 1,000 and a consolidated budget of over $200 million, and he ensures the effective development and direct implementation of the Association’s strategic goals. He has responsibility for the programs and policy activities adopted by the ABA’s governing and policy-making bodies, the Board of Governors, and House of Delegates. He is responsible for membership and non-dues revenues programs, and for budgets that reflect the right priorities and appropriate cost-cutting initiatives. Jack helps to ensure the ABA’s position as the largest voluntary association of lawyers in the world.
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EPISODE 005: PAT KENNY | TAKING THE CAPE OFF | PART 2

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 07:08:24 +0000
PATRICK J. KENNY has been a member of the fire service for over 38 years, and before retiring in January 2021 served as the Fire Chief in Hinsdale and Western Springs, Illinois. He has been a Chief Officer for over 25 years and a speaker in multiple countries on Mayday for Mental Health® for more than a decade. He is the international best-selling author of TAKING THE CAPE OFF: How to Lead Through Mental Illness, Unimaginable Grief and Loss and has articles published in the areas of mental health, leadership, fire safety, and fire code challenges. He was awarded the Fire Chief of the Year in 2004 by the Illinois Fire Chiefs Association and in 2021 he was awarded Fire Chief Emeritus status by the Executive Board of the Illinois Fire Chiefs Association. He was awarded the Fire Engineering/International Society of Fire Service Instructors (ISFSI) George D. Post Instructor of the Year Award for 2020-2021.
To learn more about Pat or to schedule him as your Keynote Speaker, visit:
https://patrickjkenny.com/
This is Part 2 of a two part interview with Pat. If you haven't done so already, listen to our previous epsiode first where Pat shares his incredible story.
Click here to watch the Video Podcast on Youtube
Click here to download the Team Discussion Guide

EPISODE 004: PAT KENNY | TAKING THE CAPE OFF | PART 1

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 07:04:13 +0000
PATRICK J. KENNY has been a member of the fire service for over 38 years, and before retiring in January 2021 served as the Fire Chief in Hinsdale and Western Springs, Illinois. He has been a Chief Officer for over 25 years and a speaker in multiple countries on Mayday for Mental Health® for more than a decade. He is the international best-selling author of TAKING THE CAPE OFF: How to Lead Through Mental Illness, Unimaginable Grief and Loss and has articles published in the areas of mental health, leadership, fire safety, and fire code challenges. He was awarded the Fire Chief of the Year in 2004 by the Illinois Fire Chiefs Association and in 2021 he was awarded Fire Chief Emeritus status by the Executive Board of the Illinois Fire Chiefs Association. He was awarded the Fire Engineering/International Society of Fire Service Instructors (ISFSI) George D. Post Instructor of the Year Award for 2020-2021.
This is Part 1 of a two part interview with Pat Kenny. Be sure to listen to Part 2 for the follow-up interview.
Click here to watch the Video Podcast on Youtube
Click here to download the Team Discussion Guide

EPISODE 003: REGGIE FREEMAN | OAKLAND'S FIRE CHIEF

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 07:03:29 +0000
Dr. Reginald D. Freeman is the 37th Fire Chief for the City of Oakland, CA. Prior to Oakland, Chief Freeman served as Fire Chief/Emergency Management Director for the City of Hartford, CT and Fire Chief for Lockheed Martin. He also served as a civilian Fire Chief in Iraq for the U.S. Department of Defense from 2004-2008. He has worked in a number of fire service capacities in his career including Firefighter/Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), Fire Captain, Fire Service Instructor, Assistant Fire Chief, and Fire Chief.
Chief Freeman’s educational accomplishments include a Bachelor of Arts in Leadership from Bellevue University in Bellevue, NE. He earned his Master’s Degree in Executive Fire Service Leadership from Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, AZ and earned his PhD in Emergency & Protective Services from Capitol Technology University located in Washington D.C. Chief Freeman is also a graduate and Fellow of Harvard University’s Senior Executives for State & Local Government (Class of 2007) program at the Kennedy School of Government and is a graduate of the Bloomberg Harvard City Leadership Initiative program (Class of 2019). Chief Freeman previously served as the Chair of the Industrial Fire & Life Safety Section for the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) and a previous Board member of the Executive Fire Officer Section of the IAFC and Technical Committee member of NFPA 1021 (Fire Officer Professional Qualifications), respectively. Additionally, Chief Freeman formerly served as a Commissioner for the Commission on Professional Credentialing via the Center for Public Safety Excellence, Inc. from 2010-2016 and Chairman from 2016-2019. He is also the Director of Training for the Caribbean Association of Fire Chiefs. Chief Freeman is a credentialed Chief Fire Officer (CFO) through the Center for Public Safety Excellence, Inc (CPSE). as well as a credentialed “Fellow” with the Institution of Fire Engineers, USA Branch. He also serves as the Area 7 Director for the California Fire Chiefs Association as well as the Board of Directors for NFPA and CPSE.
Chief Freeman is an Adjunct Professor for Anna Maria College, Capitol Technology University, and the University of Florida where he lectures in both undergraduate and graduate Fire Science and Master of Public Administration programs.
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EPISODE 002: TRACY HEJMANOWSKI | THE FIRST RESPONDER PROJECT

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 07:00:29 +0000
Dr. Tracy S. Hejmanowski is a licensed clinical psychologist, with over 20 years of expertise working with service members, first responders, veterans, and their families. Her work began in a VA Medical Center, followed by an assignment working with repatriated prisoners of war. She was stationed both overseas and stateside as an active-duty U.S. Navy psychologist, followed by work as a DoD contractor for 11 years as the Program Manager of Naval Hospital Jacksonville’s Deployment Health Center. Dr. Hejmanowski worked full time as a Baptist Behavioral Health outpatient provider in early 2020 through the pandemic and transitioned to part-time teletherapy for first responders and veterans in late 2021.
For the past 9 years, she has provided program development and lead clinical facilitation for non-profit organizations that provide reintegration and recalibration retreats for veteran and first responder communities. She currently serves as an embedded consultant within the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Shield Program. She is the Executive Director of the First Responder Project, a non-profit for first responders and their families.
Dr. Hejmanowski is a nationally requested speaker on trauma-related subjects for military and first responder communities. She is a frequent presenter for Navy and Army Special Warfare Operations reintegration programs and has authored articles on operational stress. She was recognized for innovative behavioral health initiatives related to first responder trauma and was nationally recognized by the Center for Operational Stress Control with the Caregiver of the Year Award – the first time awarded to a civilian provider.
To support the First Responder Project, visit:
https://firstresponderproject.org/
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EPISODE 001: LEE COCKERELL | THE COCKERELL ACADEMY

Fri, 09 Sep 2022 06:38:23 +0000
Lee Cockerell retired as the Executive Vice President of Operations for the Walt Disney World® Resort. Growing up in Oklahoma, Lee attended Oklahoma State University for two years before joining in the United States Army. Lee’s career includes eight years with Hilton Hotels, seventeen years with Marriott International and sixteen years with The Walt Disney Company. Lee Joined Disney in 1990 as Director of Food and Beverage, Quality Assurance and Vice President of the hotel division for Disneyland Paris.
In 1993 Lee became the Senior Vice President of the hotel division at the Walt Disney World® Resort in Florida and in 1997 was promoted to Executive Vice President of Operations for all of Walt Disney World Operations, serving in that position for ten years before retiring to start his own business, Lee Cockerell, LLC., a training and development company. Lee is author of six books on leadership, management, and world class customer service:
Creating Magic…10 Common Sense Leadership Strategies from a Life at Disney (22 languages.)
The Customer Rules...The 39 Essential Rules for Delivering Sensational Service (16 languages.)
Time Management Magic…How to Get More Done Every Day. Move from surviving to thriving.
Career Magic…How to Stay on Track to Achieve a Stellar Career
Hardwiring Magic…A guide to implementing Disney Magic into your business (co-author)
A-Game Magic…Business 101Course and Workbook (college text book, co-author)
To find out more about The Cockerell Academy, visit:
https://www.cockerellacademy.com/
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Click here to download the Team Discussion Guide

EPISODE 000: TRAILER

Tue, 24 May 2022 16:45:00 +0000
There are moments in every person's life when they face intense adversity, their crucibles, that forge who they become as individuals and as leaders. Now more than ever, we need leaders who are called to a higher standard, focused on “leaving it better than they found it” and “paying it forward” to the next generations. Join Chief Bruegmanas he speaks with leaders from all walks of life, as he explores and learns from their personal journeys and the crucibles they have faced to make them better leaders and better people.