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