Jeremy sits down with Tim Walsh, retired Chief of Special Operations from the Chicago Fire Department, longtime instructor at IFSI, and now Deputy Chief of Operations in Burbank, Illinois.

From starting as a 16-year-old cadet to serving more than three decades in one of the nation’s busiest cities, Tim shares real lessons on mentorship, leadership, and building a blue-collar fire service culture. He talks about the Chicago “quick water” mindset, the city’s iconic two-piece squads, and why the crew, the rig and the house should guide every leader’s day.

The conversation hits on the reality of command, the politics that shape departments, and the need for training that stays accessible and ego-free. It’s a grounded talk about people, purpose, and carrying the job forward.

“This is a people business. If you don’t like people, the fire service isn’t for you.” — Tim Walsh