The Chief Exchange

In Episode 69 of The Chief Exchange Podcast, we’re joined by IAFC President and Bozeman Fire Chief Josh Waldo. From his unexpected start in the fire service to now shaping fire leadership on a global scale, Chief Waldo shares a career full of lessons, perspective, and purpose. This episode covers everything from embracing AI in training to building a department culture based on excellence, integrity, and service. Chief Waldo dives into what it takes to lead both a local department and an international organization—all while staying grounded in trust and humility.

In Episode 68 of The Chief Exchange Podcast, Chief Tony Haden of Pedernales Fire Department joins Alec to talk about building culture from the ground up—one relationship at a time. From his early days dreaming of ESPN to leading a department in central Texas, Chief Haden opens up about the struggles and strategies of becoming a modern fire service leader.

You’ll hear insights on the difference between “can’t” and “won’t,” how to build a team that trusts and performs, and why ownership can either serve your mission—or sink your morale. If you care about culture, trust, and leading with clarity, this one’s for you.

In Episode 67 of The Chief Exchange Podcast, Fire Chief Stephen Gollan of Fort Lauderdale Fire Rescue joins us for a deep, thoughtful conversation on leadership, balance, and building a legacy. Chief Gollan reflects on his 31+ year career in the fire service—shaped by personal loss, a calling to serve, and a relentless commitment to communication and culture.

In episode 66 of The Chief Exchange, we sit down with Fire Chief Dave McCabe and Police Chief Keith Cross of Aurora, Illinois. Together, they share how their strong relationship has helped shape a unified, innovative public safety culture in their city. From joint rescue task force training and mental health initiatives to advice for new recruits, this episode dives into what true collaboration between fire and police should look like—and why it matters.

What makes a great command staff — and how do you ensure your negotiations build the department, not break it? In this episode of The Chief Exchange, Chief Keith Bryer from Palm Beach Gardens Fire Rescue (FL) shares lessons from decades of leadership experience. You’ll hear his best advice for identifying and empowering future leaders, creating healthier workplaces, and striking the right balance between labor and management. Chief Bryer also makes the case for a 24/72 shift schedule and offers insights into what makes department wellness programs actually work.

Whether you’re on the cusp of your first promotion or guiding an entire department, this episode equips you with practical strategies to lead well and negotiate even better.

In this episode, Fire Chief Dean Crispen of the San Francisco Fire Department shares lessons from his journey into administration and offers insight on what it takes to thrive at the top. He unpacks how to build strong collaboration when a new Mayor, Fire Chief, and Union President all step in at once — and why coaching youth sports surprisingly mirrors running a major fire department. From motivating teams with different drive levels to learning from others’ missteps, Chief Crispen shares practical strategies that every leader can use. Plus, he discusses how living outside of your city’s limits can shape — and sometimes challenge — department culture.

In Episode 63, Chief Paul Joseph of the San Jose Police Department reflects on the most significant transformations in law enforcement over the last 30 years—and how leaders can stay grounded through them all. From navigating crisis calls involving civilians in mental distress to leading efficiently while short staffed, Chief Joseph shares practical strategies and deep wisdom gained from decades of service. You’ll hear why he believes every challenge holds opportunity and why the process of growth, even through adversity, is what truly defines leadership.

From Air Force discipline to Fire Service leadership, Chief Kenneth Pravetz brings a unique lens to the firehouse. In this episode Chief Pravetz shares how his military background shaped his leadership style, the surprising benefits of adding a 4th shift to your department, and why “luck” is often something you make for yourself. Plus, hear how cold exposure—yes, ice baths—can help manage stress in high-pressure environments. This is an episode for leaders looking to push limits, innovate, and inspire.

In this episode of The Chief Exchange, Alec speaks with Executive Director of The Curve, Chris Hsiung — a trailblazer in modern law enforcement, former Undersheriff and Police Chief. Chris shares how he found new purpose after retirement, and how social media can be a powerful leadership tool in public safety when used intentionally.

This episode unpacks generational divides, addresses the most common misconceptions about Chiefs and Sheriffs using social platforms, and explores where the future of law enforcement is headed. Whether you're leading a department or looking to step into a leadership role, Chris offers three quick strategies you can use today to level up your impact — and explains how exchange programs can transform your agency's culture.

Chris also sheds light on: silencing doubt, building trust, and protecting your personal brand while still being authentically visible.

What if law enforcement recruitment took a page from the playbook of pro sports teams? Sitting down with Alec Wons, Chief Stanley McFadden of the Stockton Police Department shares his top strategies for attracting top-tier talent, revealing the two best talent pools he recruits from. He also breaks down the challenges of stepping into a department as an external chief, the most critical quality he looks for in future leaders, and how social media can be a game-changer for engaging the community. Plus, hear why exploring other industries can offer the best solutions to law enforcement’s toughest challenges.