Welcome to another episode of The First Responder Playbook! In today’s conversation, host Brent sits down with Derrick Van Mell, founder and principal of the Center for Management Terms and Practices. Derrick’s mission is simple yet powerful: building a global community of caring leaders who set the bar high when it comes to ethics and competence. Together, Brent and Derrick dive into the ongoing challenges facing first responders—especially around leadership, management standards, and the disconnects that can happen between frontline workers and administration. Derrick shares insights from his extensive experience as a management consultant and shares practical strategies to bridge communication gaps, foster trust, and keep teams connected to their sense of purpose. He breaks down the often-blurred line between management and leadership, offering clear advice every first responder can use. The conversation also spotlights “the Index,” a free online toolkit for managers, and discusses key resources for effective meetings, planning, and professional development. Whether you’re new to leadership or a seasoned first responder, this episode is packed with wisdom on strengthening teams, building better managers, and staying true to the values that make an agency great. Don’t miss Derrick’s tips for leading with empathy—and hear how any manager, regardless of their title, can make work meaningful for everyone on the team.