OpsTalk – Fire Lieutenant Profile: Part Two
Host: Deputy Chief Eric Linnenburger
Guests: Lt. Nolan Bailey, Lt. Sam De Craen, Lt. Greg Schar

Episode Overview
In Part 2 of this conversation, Deputy Chief Eric Linnenburger continues the discussion with three fire lieutenants, focusing on mentorship, leadership development, and preparation for promotion.

This episode goes beyond checklists and test prep, exploring the human side of the job. The panel shares strategies for self-reflection, building relationships, adapting leadership styles, and leveraging everyday opportunities to grow as a company officer.

Listeners will hear why preparation for promotion is really preparation for the role itself, how to cultivate influence, and why humility, authenticity, and adaptability are key to effective leadership.

Part 2 focuses on:

The role of mentorship in leadership development

Preparing beyond the test

Self-reflection, feedback, and understanding personal leadership style

Strengthening technical and interpersonal skills

Being authentic, adaptable, and people-focused in day-to-day operations

Chapters & Timestamps

01:05 – Introduction

01:43 – Mentorship and Preparing for Leadership

03:26 – Early Preparation and Self-Reflection

07:51 – Everyday Opportunities

09:12 – Self-Introspection and Human Skills

18:27 – Continuous Preparation

25:25 – Strengthening Weak Areas

26:46 – Mindset for Testing

29:18 – Motivation and Leadership Purpose

32:56 – Department History and Authenticity

37:30 – Being Authentic and Prioritizing Problems

40:16 – Closing Remarks

#FireServiceLeadership
#CompanyOfficer
#FireOfficerDevelopment
#FireServicePodcast
#leadershipdevelopment

Referenced:
"Having the Leadership Mindset" Eric Linnenburger
https://www.fireengineering.com/firefighting/having-the-leadership-mindset/

"First Due: Preparing for Large Events" Eric Linnenburger
https://www.fireengineering.com/firefighting/structural-firefighting-first-due-preparing-for-large-events/

"Successful Leaders Must Get Comfortable Operating in the Gray" Eric Linnenburger
https://www.firerescue1.com/leadership/articles/successful-leaders-must-be-comfortable-operating-in-the-gray-X8JMSBkZMJOiUJBP/

"Leadership Isn't Easy, but Stop Making it so Complicated" Eric Linnenburger
https://www.firerescue1.com/leadership/leadership-isnt-easy-but-stop-making-it-so-complicated

"Focusing on the Firsts" Brian Brush
No link available. Email if you'd like a copy.

Contact:
opstalk.wfd@gmail.com

Eric Linnenburger
linkedin.com/in/eric-linnenburger
elinnenb@westminsterco.gov

Nolan Bailey
nbailey@westminsterco.gov

Sam de Craen
sdecraen@westminsterco.gov

Greg Schar
gschar@westminsterco.gov