In part one of this conversation, we sit down with Nick Higgins to talk about leadership that starts from the inside out. We get into his work as an author, the lessons behind his current book, and the groundwork being laid for what’s coming next. Nick shares why the fire service cannot be a firefighter’s entire identity and how separating who you are from what you do is critical for longevity, perspective, and healthy leadership. This episode challenges listeners to look honestly at how they lead themselves, how they show up for others, and whether their values hold up when the title is stripped away.
In Part Two of this special Christmas conversation, Santa returns on Christmas Eve to share what happens in the moments before the sleigh takes flight. With the big night just hours away, he offers a behind-the-scenes look at how he prepares, what is going through his mind as he checks the list one final time, and why belief and kindness matter more than ever.
This episode focuses on anticipation, responsibility, and the magic of Christmas Eve, not as a performance, but as a promise. Santa reflects on the importance of doing things with care, intention, and heart, and why the act of giving carries meaning far beyond the moment itself.
Perfect for listening on Christmas Eve, this episode encourages kids and adults alike to believe, to be kind, and to carry the spirit of Christmas forward. As the world quiets down and the night unfolds, Santa reminds us that the magic of the season lives in how we show up for others.
In Part One of this Christmas special, The Passionate Leader Podcast welcomes Santa for a heartfelt conversation about the true meaning of giving. Stepping away from the noise and expectations that often surround the holidays, Santa reflects on what he believes is the greatest gift anyone can offer: peace.
Through a personal story involving handcrafted coins made by a close friend, Santa explores how symbolic gifts can carry deep meaning, strengthen friendships, and serve as reminders of goodwill long after the wrapping paper is gone. The conversation centers on kindness, reflection, and the quiet power of generosity, reminding listeners that the spirit of Christmas is often found in the simplest gestures.
This episode invites families to slow down, reflect, and reconnect with what matters most. It is a reminder that Christmas is not measured by what is under the tree, but by the love we give, the peace we share, and the connections we nurture along the way.
This conversation explores various themes related to leadership in the fire service, including the importance of developing people, the challenges of micromanagement, and the significance of community and family. The participants share personal experiences, discuss the NREMT exam preparation, and reflect on the culture within the fire service, including issues of gatekeeping and accountability. The dialogue is interspersed with lighthearted banter, particularly around holiday themes and an ugly sweater contest, creating a balance between serious topics and camaraderie.
for more information please visit www.thepassionateleader.com
for more info please visit www.thepassionateleader.com
for more information please visit www.thepassionateleader.com
for more info please visit www.thepassionateleader.com
Summary
In this episode, Terry and Kristin Dunn, a firefighter and therapist duo, discuss the challenges faced by first responders and their families. They share their personal journeys into their respective professions, the impact of trauma on first responders, and the importance of communication and connection in relationships. The Dunns emphasize the need for self-care, support, and understanding within first responder families, offering valuable insights and advice for navigating the complexities of their unique lifestyle.
In this episode, Terry and Kristin Dunn, a firefighter and therapist duo, discuss the challenges faced by first responders and their families. They share their personal journeys into their respective professions, the impact of trauma on first responders, and the importance of communication and connection in relationships. The Dunns emphasize the need for self-care, support, and understanding within first responder families, offering valuable insights and advice for navigating the complexities of their unique lifestyle.
In this conversation, Lieutenant Tom LeVey shares his inspiring journey from being laid off at General Motors to becoming a lieutenant in the Madison Heights Fire Department. He discusses the importance of mentorship, aggressive firefighting techniques, and the need for continuous training and development in the fire service. Tom emphasizes the significance of community support and the challenges of balancing work and family life as a firefighter. He also offers valuable advice for new leaders in the fire service, encouraging them to take initiative and pursue their education actively.
In this conversation, Lieutenant Tom LeVey shares his inspiring journey from being laid off at General Motors to becoming a lieutenant in the Madison Heights Fire Department. He discusses the importance of mentorship, aggressive firefighting techniques, and the need for continuous training and development in the fire service. Tom emphasizes the significance of community support and the challenges of balancing work and family life as a firefighter. He also offers valuable advice for new leaders in the fire service, encouraging them to take initiative and pursue their education actively.
In this engaging conversation, Wayne Jones, a training officer in South Carolina, shares his journey in the fire service and the importance of understanding the 'why' behind training. He discusses his transition from firefighter to instructor, the significance of mentorship, and the challenges of teaching across generational gaps. Wayne emphasizes the need for mutual respect in training environments and the fulfillment he finds in watching his students succeed. He also touches on practical training techniques, such as burp drafting, and the importance of continuing education in the fire service.
In this engaging conversation, Wayne Jones, a training officer in South Carolina, shares his journey in the fire service and the importance of understanding the 'why' behind training. He discusses his transition from firefighter to instructor, the significance of mentorship, and the challenges of teaching across generational gaps. Wayne emphasizes the need for mutual respect in training environments and the fulfillment he finds in watching his students succeed. He also touches on practical training techniques, such as burp drafting, and the importance of continuing education in the fire service.
Summary
In this conversation, Captain Jason Freeman discusses the current state of leadership in the fire service, emphasizing the importance of cultural change, expectations, and support systems to prevent burnout and retain valuable personnel. He shares insights on the challenges faced by officers, the significance of peer support, and the need for effective training and accountability. The discussion highlights the critical role of volunteers and reserves in the fire service and the necessity of evolving with changing times to ensure a sustainable and effective fire service.
Summary
In this conversation, Captain Jason Freeman discusses the current state of leadership in the fire service, emphasizing the importance of cultural change, expectations, and support systems to prevent burnout and retain valuable personnel. He shares insights on the challenges faced by officers, the significance of peer support, and the need for effective training and accountability. The discussion highlights the critical role of volunteers and reserves in the fire service and the necessity of evolving with changing times to ensure a sustainable and effective fire service.
re-released for the sake of spotify being picky
re-release after a spotify issue. for the original check it out on apple podcast
this is a re-release after an issue with spotify for the OG please visit us on apple podcast
In this episode, I sit down with Mike Elhihi a Captain who’s done it all and still keeps his boots grounded. We talk about his rise in the fire service, what it’s like to occupy multiple seats in the rig, and the uncomfortable reality of leading through tough conversations. Mike opens up about accepting that leadership isn’t always about doing what we want, but doing what’s right for the team and the mission.
If you’ve ever wrestled with the weight of responsibility, this one’s going to hit home.