B Shifter

Join us as we unpack the gripping discussions where a decision-making class threw fire officers into the midst of a heated moral quandary: rescue a civilian or a downed firefighter? Over half chose the civilian, igniting a wildfire of contrasting opinions and a deep-dive into the soul of our service. With guests John Vance, Eric Phillips, and Grant Light, we navigate through the complexities of making the toughest calls and examine the cultural rifts they reveal within the fire department ranks.This episode features Erik Phillips, Grant Light and John Vance.We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/BuckslipShop B Shifter here: https://bshifter.myshopify.comRegister for the 2024 Hazard Zone Conference here: http://hazardzonebc.com/All of our links here: https://linktr.ee/BShifterPlease subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!This episode was recorded at the Fire Department Instructors Conference in Indianapolis,  Indiana on April 20, 2024.

Step into the heart of firefighting strategy and safety, as we bring you a riveting conversation from FDIC in Indianapolis. Grant Light and Chris Stewart join us to unravel the essential roles of on-deck and rapid intervention teams, likening their poised readiness to a baseball player at bat.This episode features Chris Stewart, Grant Light and John Vance.We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/BuckslipShop B Shifter here: https://bshifter.myshopify.comRegister for the 2024 Hazard Zone Conference here: http://hazardzonebc.com/All of our links here: https://linktr.ee/BShifterPlease subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!This episode was recorded at the Fire Department Instructors Conference in Indianapolis,  Indiana on April 19, 2024.

It has been a while since we featured incident audio! This week, we take you to two different incidents in Hernando County (FL): a kitchen fire and a residential fire with a defensive shift. You will hear how this department has integrated Blue Card into its operations in a short period of time!      This episode features Josh Blum and John Vance.We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more here.Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here. Shop B Shifter and get the re-issued Fire Department Customer Service book here. Register for the 2024 Hazard Zone Conference here.All of our links here. Please subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!This episode was recorded on April 8, 2024.#HernandoCounty #Brunacini #Audio #IncidentCommand #FireDepartment #Firefighter #Leadership #MrsSmith #IncidentAudio #FireChief So, gear up, tune in, and get ready to stoke the fires of knowledge with us on the B-Shifter podcast.

When Bruno reimagined the fire service's relationship with those they serve, he sparked a revolution. Join us we unravel the profound shift from seeing community members as mere victims to recognizing them as valued customers. Our passion-fueled conversation traverses beyond the emergency call, shedding light on the everyday interactions that solidify trust and respect within the community. We share personal narratives that breathe life into Bruno's vision, discussing how leadership and management play pivotal roles in fostering a service culture that's both compassionate and professional.This episode features Alan Brunacini, Nick Brunacini, Terry Garrison, and John Vance.We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more here.Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here. Shop B Shifter and get the re-issued Fire Department Customer Service book here. Register for the 2024 Hazard Zone Conference here.All of our links here. Please subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!This episode was recorded at the Alan V. Brunacini Command Training Center in Phoenix,  Arizona  on March 13, 2024.#AlanBrunacini #Brunacini #CustomerService #CustomerServiceForTheFireService #FireDepartment #Firefighter #Leadership #MrsSmith #FireDepartment #FireChief 

U.S.  fire departments respond to an average of 125,000 residential natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas leaks annually, an increase of about 25 percent compared to 2007.  Do you have a plan for how your department will respond and mitigate these incidents?According to the NFPA, every year more than 50,000 fires start as the result of flammable gas while more than 160,000 fires start as the result of flammable or combustible liquid. Combined, flammable and combustible liquids and gases cause more than $2.1 billion worth of property damage and more than 600 deaths annually. Discover the intricate dance of strategic decision-making in emergency response as we talk with Josh Blum and Chris Stewart. Tackling the unpredictable nature of natural gas and flammable gas emergencies.Navigating the complexities of gas emergencies requires a partnership that extends beyond the fire department to include utility companies and a rigorous adherence to safety protocols. Learn how to effectively stage equipment, manage evacuation procedures, and tackle the 'you touch it, you bought it' responsibility with precision. Our conversation illuminates the deployment strategies for tactical, strategic, and task level responders, reinforcing the mantra of 'life safety first' and the paramount importance of preparation and training.This episode features Chris Stewart, Josh Blum and John Vance.We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/BuckslipShop B Shifter here: https://bshifter.myshopify.comRegister for the 2024 Hazard Zone Conference here: http://hazardzonebc.com/All of our links here: https://linktr.ee/BShifterPlease subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!This episode was recorded at the Alan V. Brunacini Command Training Center in Phoenix,  Arizona  on March 13, 2024.

Discover what's new and what's next with the Blue Card Program as Josh Blum and John Vance provide an essential update on the evolution of our training system for incident commanders. Tune in to find out how we've conquered the challenges since the old system's shutdown, from swiftly resurrecting the learning management system to fixing pesky bugs. Get the insider scoop on the latest curriculum enhancements and the sleek new website design ushering us into 2024. We're also unveiling exciting upcoming content, including a series dedicated to Silverback Leadership.We are here to support our Blue Card incident commanders who deal with unique challenges daily.  With the promise of continuous improvement to the system, our gratitude runs deep for the patience and engagement of our community of IC's. So, fire up your podcast app and join us as we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of Blue Card training  all while ensuring you have a robust support network at your back.This episode features Josh Blum and John Vance.We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/BuckslipShop B Shifter here: https://bshifter.myshopify.comRegister for the 2024 Hazard Zone Conference here: http://hazardzonebc.com/All of our links here: https://linktr.ee/BShifterPlease subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!This episode was recorded at the Alan V. Brunacini Command Training Center in Phoenix,  Arizona  on March 15, 2024.

Today commemorates the 23rd anniversary of the Southwest Supermarket Fire in Phoenix AZ.  While this incident resulted in the death of Firefighter Brett Tarver, 13 total Maydays, and deep scars for many working in the Phoenix Fire Department, it also resulted in transformative changes to the American fire service.  Through unparalleled leadership and vision, a 5 year examination of what actually occurred took place.  The focus of this examination most importantly uncovered ‘ why’  it occurred.  As a result, Fire Chief Alan Brunacini recognized critical changes must be made at all levels of the fireground.  A diligent team worked to uncover, refine, and implement significant changes that ultimately led to the Blue Card Incident Command Certification.  Today, this certification system is designed to establish a standard, provide training, and give a mechanism to measure performance in the streets for nearly 4,000 fire departments across the world.  The lessons learned have not been lost or forgotten and we continue to apply them today.This episode features Alan Brunacini, Nick Brunacini, Terry Garrison, Chris Stewart and John Vance.The interview with Alan Brunacini was recorded at the National Fire Academy with Dennis Rubin and Charlie Dickinson.We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/BuckslipShop B Shifter here: https://bshifter.myshopify.comRegister for the 2024 Hazard Zone Conference here: http://hazardzonebc.com/All of our links here: https://linktr.ee/BShifterPlease subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!This episode was recorded at the Alan V. Brunacini Command Training Center in Phoenix,  Arizona  on March 14, 2024.

Our latest podcast episode pulls back the curtain on the crucial role of the senior advisor in incident command, focusing on their support to the Incident Commander (IC) and their ability to seamlessly liaise with external agencies and how the senior advisor ensure the IC's attention remains undivided on the crisis while they handle the intricacies of public information oversight and utility coordination, a balancing act that requires both expertise and finesse.This episode features Nick Brunacini, Josh Blum and John Vance.We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/BuckslipShop B Shifter here: https://bshifter.myshopify.comRegister for the 2024 Hazard Zone Conference here: http://hazardzonebc.com/All of our links here: https://linktr.ee/BShifterPlease subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!This episode was recorded at the Alan V. Brunacini Command Training Center in Phoenix,  Arizona  on February 16, 2024.

Embrace the spirit of Silverback Leadership as we reunite with seasoned pros John Vance, Terry Garrison, and Nick Brunacini, honoring the late Chief Brunacini's legacy. As we dissect his profound wisdom, you'll be welcomed into a heartfelt dialogue on the Kindness Conspiracy, revealing how it's reshaped the culture of firefighting. This episode is a masterclass in leadership that blends nostalgia with a forward-thinking vision, ensuring we honor the past while paving the way for a safer, more efficient future.This episode features Nick Brunacini, Terry Garrison and John Vance.We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/BuckslipShop B Shifter here: https://bshifter.myshopify.comRegister for the 2024 Hazard Zone Conference here: http://hazardzonebc.com/All of our links here: https://linktr.ee/BShifterPlease subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!This episode was recorded at the Alan V. Brunacini Command Training Center in Phoenix,  Arizona  on February 15, 2024.

Discover a new dimension to firefighting tactics as Josh Blum and Chris Stewart join us for a robust conversation on the Blue Card Decision Making workshop's game-changing impact on hazard zone management. We zero in on how this program is revolutionizing strategy and decision-making from the chief officer to the firefighters in the hazard zone. This episode promises to leave you with an empowered understanding of adaptable, nuanced responses, vital for tackling the unpredictable nature of fire incidents.This episode features Josh Blum, Chris Stewart  and John Vance.We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/BuckslipShop B Shifter here: https://bshifter.myshopify.comRegister for the 2024 Hazard Zone Conference here: http://hazardzonebc.com/All of our links here: https://linktr.ee/BShifterPlease subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!This episode was recorded at the Alan V. Brunacini Command Training Center in Phoenix,  Arizona  on February 14, 2024.

When life seems to cruise along, that's often a signal as the perfect moment to shake things up.  Our latest episode shares these personal revolutions about when it is time to move on and also serves as a guide for spotting the often-subtle cues for change in personal and professional spheres. Bringing in stories from the fire service, we explore the impact of adept training and swift action, reinforcing the intrinsic value of readiness and the critical role of organizational health in such decisive moments.This episode features Nick Brunacini and John Vance.We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/BuckslipShop B Shifter here: https://bshifter.myshopify.comRegister for the 2024 Hazard Zone Conference here: http://hazardzonebc.com/All of our links here: https://linktr.ee/BShifterPlease subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!This episode was recorded in Arizona  on January 10, 2024.

This episode peels back the layers of safe fireground operations while utilizing the imbedded safety officer. We talk about how this approach transforms the safety landscape, providing immediate support and enhancing accountability where it's needed most.This episode features Nick Brunacini, Josh Blum and John Vance.We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/BuckslipShop B Shifter here: https://bshifter.myshopify.comRegister for the 2024 Hazard Zone Conference here: http://hazardzonebc.com/All of our links here: https://linktr.ee/BShifterPlease subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!This episode was recorded in Arizona and Ohio on January 9 , 2024.

This episode feature incident audio from Bernalillo County (NM), Harrison (OH) & Las Vegas (NV). We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/BuckslipShop B Shifter here: https://bshifter.myshopify.comRegister for the 2024 Hazard Zone Conference here: http://hazardzonebc.com/All of our links here: https://linktr.ee/BShifterPlease subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!This episode was recorded in Arizona and Ohio on January 12, 2024.

We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/BuckslipShop B Shifter here: https://bshifter.myshopify.comRegister for the 2024 Hazard Zone Conference here: http://hazardzonebc.com/All of our links here: https://linktr.ee/BShifterPlease subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!This episode was recorded in Minnesota and Ohio on December 17, 2023.

Ever wondered how to build a values-driven professional development program in a fire department? Ponder no more, as we venture into the heart of this topic, highlighting the importance of creating a holistic training approach that values members for their entire persona, not just their ranks. You'll hear Jeffrey's perspective on the essential role of a training officer in command staff meetings, shedding light on their pivotal role in assessing the effectiveness of training programs.Jeffery King's suggested reading:Simon Sinek - Start With Why, Leaders Eat Last, The Infinite GameAdam Grant - Give and Take, Think AgainJim Collins - Built to Last, Good to Great, Great by ChoiceMichael Schur - How to Be Perfect (great audio)Brene Brown - Dare to Lead, Daring Greatly, The Gifts of ImperfectionMalcolm Gladwell - Outliers, Talking to Strangers (great audio), The Tipping PointSidney Dekker - Just Culture, Drift Into Failure, Do Safety DifferentlyJames Clear - Atomic HabitsWe want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/BuckslipShop B Shifter here: https://bshifter.myshopify.comRegister for the 2024 Hazard Zone Conference here: http://hazardzonebc.com/All of our links here: https://linktr.ee/BShifterPlease subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!This episode was recorded at the AVB CTC in Phoenix, AZ on November 13, 2023

Ever felt that the rumor mill beats the actual communication speed in your organization? Are you tired of lengthy, unproductive meetings?  John Vance, Nick Brunacini, and Terry Garrison, tackle the intricacies of effective communication strategies within fire departments. We unwrap our experiences in streamlining administrative needs and implementing new policies. We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/BuckslipShop B Shifter here: https://bshifter.myshopify.comRegister for the 2024 Hazard Zone Conference here: http://hazardzonebc.com/All of our links here: https://linktr.ee/BShifterPlease subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!This episode was recorded at the AVB CTC in Phoenix, AZ on November 14, 2023

We define what IC "task saturation" is and Blue Card News including a recap of 2023 and more important, what is coming up for 2024!This episode features Josh Blum and John Vance.Sign up for the free Decision Making Webinar on December 6, 2023 here: https://streamyard.com/watch/wvmht9qGt4bpThe link to the latest NIOSH Report is here: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/fire/reports/face201903.htmlWe want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/BuckslipShop B Shifter here: https://bshifter.myshopify.comRegister for the 2024 Hazard Zone Conference here: http://hazardzonebc.com/All of our links here: https://linktr.ee/BShifterPlease subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!This episode was recorded in Minnesota and Ohio on December 3, 2023.

Today, we bring you an engaging conversation with Fire Chief Greg Timinsky from Star/ Middleton, Idaho. (Greg is also a Blue Card Lead Instructor). He shares his journey of uniting two fire departments, a task that took over two years, but resulted in a more efficient and effective service for his community. Now, they're all one big family with identical uniforms, and a unanimous desire to officially become one.We shed light on the intricacies of merging government entities, particularly fire departments. It's not just about combining resources, but also about maintaining fairness in terms of wages and benefits. Greg explains the hurdles they overcame to ensure no one faced a pay cut, and how recent legislation unintentionally made consolidations more challenging. We also explore the impact of local politics, tax hikes, and the importance of competitive wages in attracting and retaining employees amidst rising demand.Finally, we delve into the benefits of consolidating dispatch centers. It's a fascinating insight into how essential services can adapt to meet the needs of a growing and increasingly interconnected community. So sit back, and get ready to learn how consolidating essential services can lead to a safer, more efficient environment. This episode features Greg Timinsky, Nick Brunacini and John Vance.We want your helmet (for the AVB CTC)! Check this out to find out more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qg5_ZwoCZo0Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/fmgs92N/BuckslipShop B Shifter here: https://bshifter.myshopify.comRegister for the 2024 Hazard Zone Conference here: http://hazardzonebc.com/Please subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!This episode was recored in Phoenix, AZ at the Alan V. Brunacini Command Training Center on September 12, 2023.

We dive into the recent renovations to the Blue Card system, unpack the enhancements to the learning management system and the ARFF module, and provide a glimpse into our collaboration with the National Fire Sprinkler Association. We also reveal our plans for new CE modules and share the positive feedback garnered from the Silverback Leadership presentation. But it doesn't stop there. We're always looking for ways to elevate our services and support our customers, and we ruminate on how we can deepen our commitment to continual improvement.Ever wondered how firefighters and first responders make split-second decisions in high-stress situations? We unpack the complexities of decision-making on the front lines, exploring a two-day workshop designed to empower firefighters to make informed decisions under pressure. Drawing on the concept of 'thinking fast and slow,' we delve into the art of quick, beneficial decision-making in the field, while keeping the call's objectives front and center. When then feature radio traffic from Cobb County, GA featuring VEIS and rescue, all while using the Blue Card system to manage the incident.Upcoming classes:1/8-1/12 Train the Trainer AVB CTC in PHX2/12-2/16 Train the Trainer AVB CTC in PHX3/6-3/7 Critical Thinking & Decision Making AVB CTC in PHX 3/11-3/15 Train the Trainer at the AVB CTC in PHX3/27-3/28 Big Box in Spring, TX5/15-5/16 Big Box in Cincinnati, OHEmail:  josh@bshifter.com to sign up!This episode features Josh Blum & John Vance.Shop B Shifter here. Register for the 2024 Blue Card Hazard Zone Conference with early bird pricing and pre-conference workshop. Sign up here.Please subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!This episode was recorded remotely on November 10, 2023

Ever wondered how the values and behaviors of individuals can reflect an entire organization? Or how the actions of our upbringing can follow us into our professional and personal lives? Join us, as we navigate these intriguing questions and much more in a captivating discussion centered around leadership dynamics, especially in emergency services. We delve into the critical role of customer service, both within and outside an organization, and how it can shape the collective perception of the entity. We also unearth the unique concept of "following ugly kids home," illustrating how our actions can mirror our upbringing or immediate surroundings.We don't stop there. We venture into the world of leadership styles and the dynamics within an organization. Sharing effective strategies to foster a healthy work environment, even in the face of internal disagreements or "shift wars," we reveal the negative influence of unsupportive bosses and emphasize the need for accountability in leadership. We touch on the importance of empathy and respectful treatment of all individuals, regardless of their attitudes or actions, highlighting the significance of an empathetic leadership approach.Rounding off, we tackle the challenge of improving behavior and accountability within fire departments using real-life examples. We explore the power of empathy, kindness, and excellent customer service in making a positive impact on individuals and enhancing the image of an organization. We wrap up with the essence of fostering a culture of excellence and creating a supportive work environment that encourages positive behavior and accountability. Get ready to revolutionize the way you view leadership and organizational dynamics with this enlightening conversation. Let's do this!This episode features Nick Brunacini, Terry Garrison, and John Vance.Sign up for the B Shifter Buckslip, our free weekly newsletter here.Shop B Shifter here. You can register for the 2024 Hazard Zone Conference now!  Register here!Please subscribe and share. Thank you for listening!This episode was recorded on October 18, 2023 in Phoenix, AZ.