The Team Ten Eight Podcast
Founded in 2021 and inspired by the radio code for “in service,” the Team Ten Eight Podcast is a tribute to the extraordinary individuals who dedicate their lives to serving others.
This platform is about more than uniforms or titles—it’s about the people behind them. Through candid conversations, our guests share their unique stories and personal perspectives on life in law enforcement, emergency services, and the military.
The Team Ten Eight Podcast takes you behind the scenes and beyond the badge, offering a deeper understanding of the challenges, triumphs, and complexities of these professions. Together, we explore the issues that matter most and celebrate the service and sacrifices made by these remarkable individuals.
Join us as we honour their journeys—simply by listening.
The Team Ten Eight Podcast
Leadership Without Ego: A conversation with Capt. Willow Bloomquist
In this episode, host Christian Lane speaks with Captain Willow Bloomquist of the Dashwood Volunteer Fire Department. Willow shares her journey from various jobs to becoming a firefighter, her experiences in wildfire prevention, and the importance of community engagement. The conversation delves into the challenges and responsibilities of volunteer firefighting, including training, liability, and the dynamics of leading a volunteer team. Willow emphasizes the significance of building strong relationships within the community and the fire department, especially during critical incidents like the Wesley Ridge fire.
Chapters
00:00
Introduction to Willow Bloomquist and Dashwood Fire Department
08:28
Willow's Journey to Firefighting
13:28
Understanding Danger in Firefighting
15:15
Reading Smoke: A Critical Skill
19:50
Incident Command Decision Making
23:24
Liability in Volunteer Fire Departments
29:33
Attracting and Retaining Volunteer Firefighters
43:53
Wesley Ridge Fire Experience
54:31
Community Engagement and Support
To learn more or connect with the Dashwood Volunteer Fire Department visit https://dashwoodvfd.com/ or contact Capt. Bloomquist directly at w.bloomquist@dashwoodvfd.com.
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