Team Building SECRETS for Fire Service Success with Dr. Johnny Torgerson
In this episode of Beneath the Helmet, host Arjuna George chats with Assistant Chief Dr. Johnny Torgerson about his book, 'Forging Your Team.' They delve into the importance of team-building within firefighting units, discussing practical strategies and the change management process needed to create cohesive and high-performing teams. Dr. Torgerson shares insights on maintaining high standards, shaping behaviours, and solidifying team culture while addressing the unique challenges faced by leaders in the fire service. Tune in for actionable advice on leadership, self-management, and team dynamics in both career and volunteer fire departments.
00:00 Team Building in the Fire Service: A Leadership Blueprint with Johnny Torgeson
01:09 Introduction to Beneath the Helmet
01:51 Meet Dr. Johnny Torgerson
02:13 Johnny's Family and Career Journey
04:25 The Drive Behind Higher Education
11:29 Balancing Life and Education
16:10 Investing in Personal Growth
19:14 Generational Differences in the Fire Service
24:53 Leadership and Team Building
48:23 The Promised Land: Embracing Discomfort
48:58 Crew vs. Team: Understanding the Difference
53:42 Shaping Behavior: The Blacksmith Approach
59:54 Raising the Bar: Setting High Standards
01:03:30 Cooling Phase: Solidifying Change
01:11:15 Fine-Tuning: The Indefinite Leadership Process
01:23:07 Self-Leadership: Winning the Day
01:29:27 Conclusion: Final Thoughts and Resources
Connect with Chief Johnny Torgeson
www.forgingteams.com
Firedawg Consulting
Host:
Arjuna George - Fire Chief (ret)
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Connect with the Host:
Arjuna George – Fire Chief (ret) Owner of Silver Arrow Coaching and Consulting, Beneath the Helmet Show, and Burnt Around the Edges author.
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www.burntaroundtheedges.com
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Dr. JT started his career with the U.S. Army as an NCO. He's worked for several fire departments in the U.S. and different countries. He became a successful business owner and CEO in his mid-twenties. He obtained a Bachelor's degree in business, a Master's in leadership, and a Doctorate in strategic leadership. Currently, he works as a chief officer, college instructor, author, and speaker. He is the author of Forging Your Team: Demystifying Team Development for First Responders. Dr. JT has achieved multiple life-saving awards and service distinctions throughout his career. He has written for multiple publications and spoken on leadership and team development nationwide. In his spare time, he enjoys hanging with his family, volunteering at church, and mentoring veterans. Dr. JT has a passion for serving people. Throughout his career, he developed award-winning teams and transformed lives through his distinct strategies.