Episode Description:
In this episode, Eric Linnenburger dives into the world of water rescue with Alec Shogan, a fire medic and water rescue coordinator, highlighting the unique challenges and advancements within the fire service's water rescue programs. Discover how a small department like the Westminster Fire Department manages specialized operations like swift water, ice rescue, and even wildfire responses using boats and cutting-edge technology.

#FireService #WaterRescue #SwiftWater #IceRescue #Firefighter

Key Topics:
-Westminster Fire Department's water rescue evolution and rebranding from "dive team" to "water rescue team"

-Alec's background in diving and what drew him to the water rescue specialty

-How regional collaboration enhances water rescue capabilities across agencies

-The importance of specialized water rescue skills in a landlocked state like Colorado

-Swift water rescue techniques: search patterns, rope systems, and safety protocols

-Unique equipment: boats, sonar, underwater ROV, new dive truck, and communications technology

-Structured training requirements, certifications, and volunteer pathways to join the team

-Water rescue responses for lakes, swift water, and flood emergencies

-Recent wildfire deployment supporting wildland firefighting efforts via boats

-How agencies can develop water rescue programs and get started

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction to the water rescue team and Alec's background
02:18 - Alec's career path and influence of a key mentor
03:39 - The evolution of Westminster's water rescue program
06:02 - Why being a "water guy" attracted Alec to the fire service
07:25 - Regionalization and inter-agency collaboration in water rescue
08:18 - Water rescue in landlocked Colorado: risks and water bodies
10:55 - Swift water rescue: search techniques, hazards, and resource needs
12:24 - Rope systems, technical rescue, and incident management
15:54 - Training expectations, certifications, and volunteer involvement
19:00 - Essential equipment: boats, sonar, dive truck, and underwater ROV
22:38 - From the bread truck to advanced technology
26:54 - Water rescue for lakes and floodwaters during wildfire season
32:38 - Managing cold water rescues and the 90-minute rescue window
34:39 - Tech innovations: sonar, underwater robots, dive computers
38:56 - Supporting law enforcement recovery and cold case searches
41:54 - Wildfire deployment: supporting wildland firefighting with boats
45:58 - The importance of boat experience and cross-training
46:35 - Motivating others to pursue water rescue as a specialized skill
50:02 - Multi-agency collaboration and training efforts
52:20 - How to get involved and the importance of certified swimming skills

Contact:
opstalk.wfd@gmail.com

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

Alec Shogan
ashogan@westminsterco.gov

This episode is best consumed on YouTube via the Ops Talk channel for the full experience and video footage. Find it here: https://youtu.be/8yr0wwNE7g8

This bonus episode shares a presentation that was given at a regional officer development class on a challenging apartment fire response, highlighting critical lessons for first-due officers, incident management, and preparedness. Whether you're on the fireground or leading crews, these insights aim to improve your response strategies and decision-making under pressure.
Key Topics:

Accurate scene size-up and building identification
Effective radio communication and crowd management
Strategic resource deployment and incident scene organization
Lessons learned from VEIS, ladder placement, and firefighting tactics
Team relationships and cross-boundary training
Managing media, documentation, and post-incident investigation
Decision-making frameworks: recognizing cues and operating under stress
Building mental resilience and maintaining calm in chaos

Timestamps:
00:05 - Introduction and incident overview
01:01 - Why preparation and lessons learned matter
02:00 - First arriving officer responsibilities
04:46 - Building familiarity and pre-incident knowledge
05:48 - Importance of the first five minutes
08:10 - Incident details and building layout
09:20 - Response and initial observations
11:21 - Blue Card and communication systems
12:19 - Tactical assessment: fire conditions and rescue priorities
14:14 - Resource deployment
15:22 - Window rescues and scene chaos
16:57 - Fire behavior and decision points
19:20 - Tactics: VEIS, hose lines, and rescue operations
22:39 - Water supply and ladder placement
28:21 - Supervisory roles and scene command
30:37 - Incident size and managing multiple divisions
33:09 - Mastering fundamentals and decision frameworks
34:26 - Books and mental models for operational excellence
37:13 - Skill mastery: VEIS, quick water, equipment familiarity
39:07 - Decision-making under pressure
43:02 - Fireground mindset: System 1 vs. System 2 thinking
44:15 - Rapid rescues and firefighter rescue survey
48:15 - Leadership at the company level
52:38 - Cross-boundary training and regional cooperation
54:20 - Scene management: naming, positioning, communication
57:04 - ICS roles and operational readiness
59:04 - Recognition-Primed Decision making
62:45 - Building situational awareness through literature
63:52 - Detachment and leadership perspective
66:15 - Managing media and mental resilience
69:07 - Scene size-up, water supply, resource staging
71:56 - The critical role of EMS
72:25 - High-rise fire case study: Twin Parks
74:10 - Battery and EV charging hazards
75:06 - Post-incident review and investigation readiness
78:24 - Hose lines, crew safety, tactical positioning
80:49 - Scene size-up: sides of the building
82:11 - Scene command from the scene or balcony
83:08 - Dealing with media and public perception
84:02 - Post-incident investigation and accountability
86:08 - Documentation and legal considerations
90:42 - Debriefs and continuous improvement
94:01 - Preparing for future large-scale incidents
95:28 - Leadership and fostering a proactive safety culture
95:46 - Closing thoughts and Q&A

Resources Mentioned:
The Emergency Mind: Dan Dworkis MD PHD
Sources of Power: Gary Klein
Thinking, Fast and Slow: Daniel Kahneman
Mastering Fireground Command: Brian Brush and Anthony Kastros
Fire Engineering (May 2024)
Leadership Strategy and Tactics: Jocko Willink
Fire Rescue Survey

Contact:
opstalk.wfd@gmail.com

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

OpsTalk Podcast - Fire Department EMS
Host: Deputy Chief Eric Linnenburger
Guest: Westminster Fire Department EMS Chief Chad Christian

Episode Overview
In this episode of the OpsTalk Podcast, host Eric Linnenburger speaks with EMS Chief Chad Christian about the remarkable achievements of the Westminster Fire Department EMS section in 2025, including a 200% increase in cardiac arrest ROSC rates. They discuss the importance of high-quality CPR, the integration of new equipment, and the critical role of teamwork in emergency services. The conversation also highlights community engagement efforts in CPR training, the challenges of recruiting and retaining paramedics, and the future focus on trauma care and whole blood programs. Through data-driven approaches and innovative training techniques, the department aims to enhance emergency response and save more lives.

Chapters
Introduction to EMS Success
04:49 Focus on High-Quality CPR
10:19 Integrating New Equipment for Better Outcomes
12:41 The Importance of Team Dynamics
16:53 Training Sessions and Their Impact
21:18 Navigating New Guidelines and Equipment
25:47 The Role of Safety and Medical (SAM) Officers
31:10 Community Engagement in CPR Training
3600: 48Building Community Connections
38:54 Enhancing Safety with AEDs and CPR Training
41:53 Recruitment and Retention of Paramedics
48:41 The Value of Fire-Based EMS
55:20 Future Directions in Trauma Care
01:08 The Importance of Holistic Trauma Care

#fireservice #ems #leadership #podcast

Contact:
opstalk.wfd@gmail.com

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

Chad Christian
cchristi@westminsterco.gov

In this crossover episode of Ops Talk, Deputy Chief Eric Linnenburger is interviewed by Peter Younes, on the Project Command Podcast. He shares his extensive journey in the fire service, spanning over 25 years. He discusses his transition from line officer to deputy chief, emphasizing the challenges and growth opportunities that come with moving into administration. Eric highlights the importance of leadership, officer development, and the need for effective communication within the fire service. He also delves into his recent article on the transition from fire ground to front office, shedding light on the cultural shifts and skill sets required for success in administrative roles.

The conversation further explores the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in fire service operations, with Eric sharing practical examples of how AI can enhance efficiency and decision-making. He discusses the importance of staying connected with the membership and maintaining open lines of communication to foster trust and collaboration. The insights provide valuable lessons for those considering a promotion or transition into administrative roles, emphasizing the need for adaptability, relationship-building, and continuous learning in the evolving landscape of the fire service.

In this episode of Ops Talk, Eric Linnenburger interviews Captain Peter Younes, a Henrico County Fire Captain, project management professional, and host of the Project Command Podcast. They discuss the importance of effective fire service project management, the challenges of implementing projects in operations, and the role of technology and AI in enhancing fire department efficiency. Peter shares his journey in the fire service, the significance of understanding project management principles, and the common pitfalls that can derail projects. The conversation emphasizes the need for foundational skills and proactive learning to adapt to the evolving demands of the fire service.

Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Project Management in Fire Service
03:27 Peter Younes' Journey in the Fire Service
08:42 Identifying the Gap in Project Management Training
09:52 The Importance of Project Management in Fire Departments
15:13 Operational Projects and Their Impact
19:52 Mentorship and Leadership Development
23:30 Basics of Project Management for Operations
32:00 Defining Success in Projects
33:05 Common Pitfalls in Project Management
35:00 The Cost of Project Failure
40:46 Understanding Technical Debt
45:13 Leveraging Technology for Project Management
47:22 The Role of AI in Fire Service
56:09 Preparing for Future Challenges
01:00:07 Motivation and Giving Back to the Fire Service

Contact:
opstalk.wfd@gmail.com

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

Peter Younes
Project Command Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/project-command/id1846384691
projectcommandpodcast@gmail.com

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

Host: Deputy Chief Eric Linnenburger
Guests: Lt. Nolan Bailey, Lt. Sam De Craen, Lt. Greg Schar

Episode Overview
In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, Deputy Chief Eric Linnenburger sits down with three fire lieutenants at very different stages of their careers to unpack what the fire lieutenant position really looks like today.

This episode goes beyond job descriptions and promotional checklists. Through personal stories, hard-earned lessons, and candid discussion, the panel explores how lieutenants build trust, lead experienced crews, navigate people problems, and balance operational decision-making with the human side of the job.

Listeners will hear why there is no single “right” path to becoming a successful company officer—but why shared values like humility, adaptability, accountability, and service consistently matter.

Part 1 focuses on:
• The role of the fire lieutenant as the first-line company officer
• Each guest’s unique path to leadership
• Early challenges in the seat
• Building credibility and trust with crews
• Why relationships off the fireground matter as much as decisions on it

Part 2 (coming in two weeks) will shift toward mentorship, leadership development, and how to prepare for promotion.

Chapters & Timestamps

00:00 – Intro & Episode Focus
What the company officer role really demands

02:45 – Acting Officer vs. Promoted Officer
When responsibility becomes 24/7

08:10 – Ownership of the Crew & the House
Everything under (and outside) the roof is yours

14:30 – The “Unsexy” Side of the Job
Discipline, admin issues, and constant problem-solving

20:10 – Influence Beyond the Firehouse
Why relationships outside your department matter

27:40 – Auto Aid & Regional Firefighting
Thinking bigger than your station or city

35:15 – Being an Ambassador for Your Department
Protecting credibility, culture, and reputation

42:05 – Kitchen Table Leadership
Managing venting, conflict, and division

50:30 – Setting Expectations & Controlling the Climate
Letting people vent—without letting it rot morale

58:40 – Why Being a Company Officer Is Fun
Influence, decision-making, and loving the job

1:03:20 – Confidence in the Gray Area
Experience, crew trust, and early decision-making

1:10:45 – Mentorship & Learning from Giants
Standing on the shoulders of great officers

1:16:50 – Building a Crew That Makes You Better
Why officers don’t succeed alone

1:22:40 – Part 2 Tease: Mentorship & Preparation
What’s coming next

#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

Summary

In this episode of Ops Talk, Deputy Chief Eric Linnenburger sits down with Fire Chief Kris Blume, author of "Carry the Fire: The Crucible of Leadership in the Fire Service." They discuss officer development, mission-driven culture, and the critical difference between command presence and command resonance. Chief Blume shares insights on accountability done right, leading with authenticity, his journey to fire chief, and how to stay connected to your purpose and the people you serve. Essential listening for current and aspiring fire service leaders.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Leadership in Fire Service

03:14 Chris Bloom's Journey to Fire Chief

06:51 Transitioning from Tucson to Meridian

10:46 The Role of Company Officers in Fire Service

14:41 Building Relationships and Support Systems

18:42 Exploring 'Carry the Fire' and Officer Development

21:17 Mission-Driven Culture in Fire Service

27:51 Decision-Making Under Pressure

31:46 The Importance of Intent in Leadership

38:54 Real-Life Examples of Mission-Driven Decisions

42:07 Empowering Community Service Through Leadership

45:38 Command Presence vs. Command Resonance

51:49 Building Command Resonance in Leadership

56:43 The Importance of Accountability in Leadership

01:05:54 Weathering the Storm of Leadership Challenges

01:13:16 Final Wrap Up

Where to get "Carry The Fire":

https://fireengineeringbooks.com/books/carry-the-fire-the-crucible-of-leadership-in-the-fire-service/?srsltid=AfmBOormbw8YiNV3IzWlBRvZRCcRHMKi5306qlJ1CvA0TCLcPSScANPR

https://www.amazon.com/s?k=carry+the+fire+blume&crid=1RG8E035AOWU3&sprefix=carry+the+%2Caps%2C172&ref=nb_sb_ss_p13n-expert-pd-ops-ranker_1_10

Contact: opstalk.wfd@gmail.com

Eric Linnenburger:

linkedin.com/in/eric-linnenburger

elinnenb@westminsterco.gov