WFD Ops Talk
Ops Talk - Real conversations about fire department operations, tactics, and the people doing the work. Hosted by Westminster Fire Department Deputy Chief Eric Linnenburger, featuring firefighters, officers, and subject matter experts from inside and outside the organization.
Each month, we explore the challenges facing modern fire service operations - from evolving tactics like electric vehicle fires and hazmat response, to position profiles that go beyond the job description, to lessons learned from real incidents and deployments. We discuss leadership, team building, specialty teams, and the expertise that makes great firefighters even better.
Whether you're a firefighter looking to grow professionally, aspiring to promote, or simply interested in emergency operations, these honest conversations offer practical insights you can use. Think of it as pulling up a chair at the kitchen table - real discussions about the work we do and how we can all learn from each other.
New episodes monthly, with occasional bonus content on timely topics.
Questions or topic suggestions? Email opstalk.wfd@gmail.com
WFD Ops Talk
Fire Officer Development with Chief Kris Blume
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Summary
In this episode of Ops Talk, Deputy Chief Eric Linnenburger sits down with Fire Chief Kris Blume, author of "Carry the Fire: The Crucible of Leadership in the Fire Service." They discuss officer development, mission-driven culture, and the critical difference between command presence and command resonance. Chief Blume shares insights on accountability done right, leading with authenticity, his journey to fire chief, and how to stay connected to your purpose and the people you serve. Essential listening for current and aspiring fire service leaders.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Leadership in Fire Service
03:14 Chris Bloom's Journey to Fire Chief
06:51 Transitioning from Tucson to Meridian
10:46 The Role of Company Officers in Fire Service
14:41 Building Relationships and Support Systems
18:42 Exploring 'Carry the Fire' and Officer Development
21:17 Mission-Driven Culture in Fire Service
27:51 Decision-Making Under Pressure
31:46 The Importance of Intent in Leadership
38:54 Real-Life Examples of Mission-Driven Decisions
42:07 Empowering Community Service Through Leadership
45:38 Command Presence vs. Command Resonance
51:49 Building Command Resonance in Leadership
56:43 The Importance of Accountability in Leadership
01:05:54 Weathering the Storm of Leadership Challenges
01:13:16 Final Wrap Up
Where to get "Carry The Fire":
https://fireengineeringbooks.com/books/carry-the-fire-the-crucible-of-leadership-in-the-fire-service/?srsltid=AfmBOormbw8YiNV3IzWlBRvZRCcRHMKi5306qlJ1CvA0TCLcPSScANPR
https://www.amazon.com/s?k=carry+the+fire+blume&crid=1RG8E035AOWU3&sprefix=carry+the+%2Caps%2C172&ref=nb_sb_ss_p13n-expert-pd-ops-ranker_1_10
Contact: opstalk.wfd@gmail.com
Eric Linnenburger:
linkedin.com/in/eric-linnenburger
elinnenb@westminsterco.gov