In this episode of the Convergent Impact Leadership Podcast, Chief Jeremy Young of the Frederick-Firestone Fire District reflects on his 30+ years in emergency services, including nearly a decade as fire chief in one of Colorado’s fastest-growing districts. From his roots in Kansas City to his leadership roles on the Colorado State Fire Chiefs E-Board and the International Association of Fire Chiefs, Chief Young brings a people-first mindset shaped by integrity, emotional intelligence, and an unwavering commitment to mentorship.

Whether he’s talking about transitioning into a new department, building culture from the inside out, or supporting emerging leaders, Chief Young offers clear, actionable wisdom for leaders at every level.

🔥 Tune in to hear:

✅ Why mentorship isn’t just for struggling members—and why every chief needs one

✅ How to shift your mindset from serving the public to serving your people

✅ What it really takes to build a culture of trust, buy-in, and clarity

✅ Why emotional intelligence is a core leadership skill, not a soft skill

✅ How to lead with courage—even when the decision is unpopular

✅ Why balance, honesty, and hope all matter in high-impact leadership

✅ The mindset behind Chief Young’s “Where’s your oar today?” culture analogy

From the firehouse to the statehouse, this episode is a candid, insightful look at leadership that’s rooted in purpose, not position—and built to grow others.

In this episode of the Convergent Impact Leadership Podcast, recently retired Assistant Chief Eric Valliere of Scottsdale Fire reflects on his 34-year journey in the fire service—from riding a fire truck in 1991 to helping lead one of Arizona’s most innovative departments. A passionate advocate for firefighter safety, leadership development, and emotional intelligence, Chief Valliere shares what it means to lead with heart, serve with humility, and leave the job better than you found it.

Whether you're a new officer, a veteran leader, or approaching your own transition, this episode is a candid look at what matters most—on the fireground, in the firehouse, and beyond the badge.

🔥 Tune in to hear:

✅ Why firefighter safety is a leadership issue—not just a tactical one

✅ How vulnerability and emotional intelligence shape strong teams

✅ What it means to give more than your position requires

✅ Lessons from transitioning a private fire contract into a municipal department

✅ How to build influence without relying on rank

✅ Why self-awareness and real conversations are cornerstones of command

✅ The leadership mindset Chief Valliere is carrying into his next chapter

From operations to officer development, this episode is a reminder that leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about trust, courage, and caring deeply for your people.

In this episode of the Convergent Impact Leadership Podcast, Chief Mike Morgan—Director of the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control—shares leadership lessons shaped over nearly four decades in public safety. From his early days as a volunteer firefighter in Rifle to leading statewide fire service coordination, Chief Morgan offers a clear, experienced perspective on what it takes to lead with intent in complex systems, without forgetting where you came from.

Whether recounting near misses, navigating interagency politics, or championing innovation in wildfire response and community risk reduction, Chief Morgan reminds us that leadership isn’t about control—it’s about service, support, and showing up for the people who do the work.

🔥 Tune in to hear:

✅ How early mistakes shaped a lifelong commitment to training and safety

✅ The story behind Colorado’s expanded aviation, mitigation, and support resources

✅ What it means to lead “with the end in mind” in a state-level role

✅ Why collaboration, not control, is the future of effective fire service leadership

✅ Lessons from South Canyon and how they still guide leadership decisions today

✅ How to lead when influence matters more than authority

✅ Why every leader should be mentored, especially by those they lead

Whether you’re a fire chief, policy leader, or frontline firefighter, this episode delivers grounded insight from one of Colorado’s most trusted voices in fire service leadership.