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.
info_outline
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.
info_outline
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.
info_outline
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.
info_outline
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.
info_outline
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...
info_outline
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_outline
Stop bashing your people
Please Suck Less
1. Be your departments best ally not it’s worst enemy. To many people are quick to bash their fellow volunteers. The fact is we need to accept all and make sure all members have what they need, like training and confidence. Experienced members need to take the new people under their wing and help to make them better. It is so easy to point and bash a member. Take the hard road and lift your members. They came to the fire service for a reason, help them achieve their goals. 2. You are responsible to get your apparatus on the street. As...
info_outline
Make your new members feel welcome or you will lose them
Please Suck Less
Volunteer fire department membership is dwindling. The decline has been steady for years. Are you doing all you can to recruit and retain new members? When you get new members are you making them feel welcome or are you ignoring them to the point they leave? Sometimes we are our own worst enemy. Volunteer organizations must go out of their way to make new members feel welcome. All members need to engage with new people let them know how important it is for them to be at the station, take training classes and give as much time as they can. We must do the work to attract and keep new members or...
info_outline
Stop Micromanaging
Please Suck Less
Excessive talking on the radio. Bosses constantly questing your every move. Officers not being consistent. Chiefs trying to run a fireground when they are not on the scene. This are just a peek into the world of micromanaging. So why do some bosses do this? It is a trust issue between the chief and the firefighters. They don't have faith in their own skills, and they project that onto their firefighters and junior officers. Communication is the key to fix it. Suck Less Do better!
info_outlineYou say you take care of your people, but your people know it is Bull $h!T. if you did take care of them they would not be leaving and or trash talking you and the company. Take the time to appreciate the people who work hard and care about the job.
Take time out of your day to meet the people face to face and tell them thanks for the work they do. Buy them breakfast or lunch or both. A little goes a long way. Letting your employees know you truly care makes the work environment better. If you don't, your employees will be less productive or may leave altogether and, in the end, you too may be looking for a new job.