Leaders Who Don’t Train First, Eat Last, or Protect Their Crew… SUCK
Please Suck Less
💥 If you’re a fire officer who cuts the line at chow, skips reps in training, or throws your people under the bus — you’re failing. Period. This episode of Please Suck Less rips into what real leadership looks like: Command done right: Life Safety, Incident Stabilization, Property Conservation. Why leaders eat last… but damn sure train first. Taking care of your people so they know you’ve got their back. No ego. No excuses. Just raw truth for the fireground and the firehouse. 👉 Do better. Suck less.
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Don't be an Ass, Don't be spiteful
Please Suck Less
I call out the wannabes and fast-trackers in the fire service. If you want that next set of bugles, you’d better master your current rank first. Remember—this career is supposed to be enjoyed, not just endured. Stop making emotional, knee-jerk decisions that wreck your credibility. Learn when to compromise without selling out your people. I push firefighters to find real mentors, ditch the shortcuts, and step into leadership with grit, brains, and purpose. If you’re serious about leading, this episode is your wake-up call.
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Shut up and let your officers make a decision
Please Suck Less
Summary In this episode, I break down the brutal truth about decision-making on the fireground. When seconds count, we don’t need chiefs calling shots while still responding—we need officers who are empowered to make the call. I dive into why real leadership means trusting your people, not babysitting them. We talk about building a culture where mistakes become lessons, not career-enders, and where leaders back their crews, not break their confidence. If you want to build warriors on the line, you’ve got to give them room to lead.
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Train for everything; High Frequency and Low Frequency incidents
Please Suck Less
I discuss the critical importance of training in the fire service, emphasizing the need to balance training for high-frequency and low-frequency calls. I highlight the public's expectations regarding rapid response and ethical conduct, and stress the importance of accountability and transparency in firefighting operations.
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Accountability, the dirty word. You Ain't Hijacking June!
Please Suck Less
I discuss the importance of accountability for all people, particularly within the fire department. I emphasize the need for discipline and adherence to policies, explaining how these elements contribute to a healthy work environment. Additionally, I highlight June as Men's Mental Health Month, urging listeners to support one another and seek help when needed.
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Lead by example, don't be lazy. Politicians Suck!
Please Suck Less
In this episode, I discuss the essential qualities of effective leadership, particularly in the context of the fire service. I emphasize the importance of leading by example, setting clear expectations, and maintaining core values such as approachability and accountability. The conversation also touches on local political issues in Maryland, highlighting the need for leaders to be aware of their responsibilities and the impact of their decisions.
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Are there any adults in the room
Please Suck Less
In this episode, I discuss the importance of respectful disagreement in leadership and organizational culture. I emphasize that it's essential to voice disagreements with facts rather than feelings and propose solutions. I also critique the current political climate, calling for politicians to act as responsible leaders and find common ground rather than engage in divisive rhetoric. The conversation highlights the need for accountability and constructive communication in professional and political settings.
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If you can do the job, you will have a seat at the kitchen table.
Please Suck Less
In this episode, I discuss the ongoing challenges faced by the fire service, particularly regarding budget cuts and the impact of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Iemphasize the importance of adequate funding for the fire service to ensure public safety and the need for a focus on performance over identity politics. I argue that firefighters are dedicated professionals who deserve proper resources and respect, regardless of their background.
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Bullying and Weakness
Please Suck Less
Summary In this episode, I discuss the issues of bullying within the fire service, particularly from upper management. I emphasize the importance of respectful confrontation and documentation when dealing with bullies. Additionally, I address the rising trend of EMS units calling for manpower assistance, urging personnel to maintain physical fitness to handle their responsibilities effectively. Takeaways Bullying in the fire service often stems from insecurity in leadership. Respectful confrontation can resolve bullying issues. Documentation of conversations is crucial when addressing...
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Share what you learn including your mistakes
Please Suck Less
In this conversation, I shares valuable insights from my experience in the fire service, emphasizing the importance of knowledge sharing, maintaining composure in crisis situations, and learning from mistakes. Through personal anecdotes, I illustrates how effective leadership and mentorship can significantly impact emergency response outcomes. I encourage you to approach every situation with the mindset of preparedness and to foster a culture of learning within the fire service.
info_outlineAs a firefighter and/or an officer. you need to take you position seriously. This means on the fire ground. If you are the Rapid Intervention Company you take that task seriously. Full PPE SCBA and tools.
If you are in the station make sure the apparatus is checked and clean. All your tools need to be clean and ready to go. The station must be clean (bathrooms, loung, engine room, kitchen...)
Volunteer leaders you are responsible to make sure your station is in good working order. If you plumbing is crap get it fixed. if something is broken or does not work get it fixed. It is your house take care of it.
Don't be lazy do your job and stop SUCKING!